07/31/2026 OC Today-Dispatch

OC Today-Dispatch

Parking lot plan thwarted

The Ocean City Council had deal on four pieces of property downtown it wanted for parking, or at least council members thought they did until the property owner informed them through his lawyer that he has a contract with someone else at a higher price. — PAGE 3

The ‘World’s Richest Billfish Tournament’ will bring big boats and big bucks to Ocean City next week, as anglers from all over compete for millions of dollars in prize money.— PAGE 29

Arts center adding on

Art League gets financial help it needs to construct 1,400-square-foot addition. — PAGE 92

Land eyed for parking under contract with private buyer

By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor

(July 31, 2026) Officials say they will not pursue eminent domain after learning that the four downtown properties the city had interest in purchasing for the creation of a municipal parking lot are now under contract with another buyer.

The decision was made during Tuesday’s meeting of the Ocean City Council. Councilman Peter Buas – whose father, Spiro Buas, was identified this week by a person with knowledge of the matter as the potential buyer – was not present for the council’s deliberations.

“If another private entity is entering the transaction, then we’ll just see how that goes and step aside,” Councilman John Gehrig said this week.

During a June meeting, it was revealed that the City Council had been working behind the scenes over the winter months to reach an agreement for the purchase of 205, 207, 209 and 211 Philadelphia Avenue.

Officials said the properties – currently occupied by three residential

buildings and a gravel lot – were strategically located for municipal parking and fulfill a public need, as they would be used to eliminate a portion of the 299-space parking deficiency in the downtown area.

According to City Solicitor Heather Stansbury, the negotiations stalled this spring after the City Council agreed to the property owner’s counteroffer and sent a contract with the agreed-on purchase price. The lack of correspondence that followed prompted city officials to begin making a public case for eminent domain.

Giving the owner one last opportunity to renew negotiations, the City Council last month directed staff to send a letter to the property owner, reiterating the city’s offer to buy the properties at fair market value and giving him until June 24 to respond. That missive resulted in another counteroffer from the seller.

“I made another offer, at the council’s direction, to the attorney about 10 days ago or so,” Stansbury told the

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OC opts against eminent domain

Continued from Page 3

council this week, “and the trail has gone, again, silent.”

While she never heard back from the seller’s attorney, Stansbury told officials this week she had heard the properties were under contract with another buyer.

“I understand that offer is more than what the town had authorized me to make,” she said. “So, I put it to you, but I do understand the properties to be under contract.”

For his part, Gehrig said the offer the city put forward was the highest he was willing to make. Council Secretary Will Savage agreed.

“We based that off of anticipated revenue and appraisals, and if you are saying that contract is above it, I’m not willing to go any higher,” he said.

According to an appraisal completed on the properties, the market value as of Jan. 1 was listed at $2.75 million, with the cost of demolishing the three buildings and remediating the asbestos siding estimated at another $101,000.

“Town staff was confident we could complete demo and remediation for less than projected,” Council President Matt James said in a statement Wednesday.

While the city will not be moving forward with the property acquisition, City Manager Terry McGean told officials this week that staff would keep looking for suitable sites for a future parking lot.

When asked about the status of the buildings located on the three parcels, Stansbury said they remain uninhabitable. A motion to have staff continue pursuing the condemnation process passed in a 6-0 vote, with Buas absent.

“We do have safety concerns,” Stansbury said of the properties. “So unless the council directs us otherwise, we’re going to continue to move full steam ahead with that, regardless of who may buy them. If we’re not going to pursue eminent domain, we will continue to pursue getting those buildings down and not letting anyone occupy them until they are down.”

Assateague lifeguards in place Weds.-Sun.

By Brian Shane Staff Writer

(July 31, 2026) Lifeguards are back on duty on the Maryland side of Assateague Island National Seashore, but only for five days a week.

The beach will remain without lifeguards on Mondays and Tuesdays, according to Bill Hulslander, the park’s chief of resource management. Lifeguards will now staff the beach from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Wednesdays through Sundays.

In a statement, the National Park Service said lifeguard hours might fluctuate later in the summer season, adding that many factors influence lifeguard staffing, including lifeguard availability, and that “no two years are the same.”

The agency did not respond to emailed questions this week about why

Monday and Tuesday would remain offdays for lifeguard staffing. The park generally moves to weekend-only coverage from mid-August to Labor Day.

Earlier this summer, federal hiring delays had left the Maryland side of the park unguarded over the Fourth of July weekend – the summer’s busiest weekend – after the National Park Service failed to bring aboard new lifeguard hires as quickly as expected.

Park Superintendent Hugh Hawthorne said at the time that changing federal hiring procedures had delayed the process.

That led park officials to move all available lifeguards to the Virginia side of Assateague, where the surf is more dangerous and rip currents are more common, rather than divide too few guards between both locations. There were still guards at the nearby As-

sateague State Park.

The shortage drew more attention after several swimmers were caught in rip currents over the busy weekend at an unguarded section of beach. Bystanders helped pull eight swimmers from the ocean, according to one of the rescuers.

Worcester County officials were notified that the July 4 weekend would not be staffed on the Maryland side of the park and immediately acted by asking members of Congress – Rep. Andy Harris, Sen. Chris Van Hollen, and Sen. Angela Alsobrooks – to lean on the National Park Service, according to County Administrator Weston Young.

“Clearly, we would love full-week coverage for those beaches,” he said, “but we’re at the mercy of the National Park Service.”

Another wild card, Young added, is how ocean currents have been known to

carry unexploded World War II ordnance onto the beach – a landing zone on the border between state and federal beach that’s precisely where lifeguards are usually posted.

“It is the lifeguards out in the morning who usually discover those first,” Young said. “By them not being out there, that increases the risk that somebody will tamper with it, play with it, take it to their home, which is frowned upon and potentially unsafe.”

Park officials continued to urge swimmers to enter the ocean only near lifeguards and to use the guarded beach at neighboring Assateague State Park when National Park Service guards are not on duty.

Lifeguards monitor only the designated swimming area, not the National Seashore’s entire Maryland shoreline. The Berlin Fire Company historically has been the designated first responder agency in cases of water rescues and emergencies.

City to review bids for 14th St. water plant renovations

By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor

(July 31, 2026) Ocean City officials this week directed staff to review the nine bids they received for improvements at the 14th Street water treatment plant.

During Tuesday’s meeting, the Ocean City Council opened nine bids for a project to replace aging windows and doors at the water plant. The work is part of a larger $3.62 million capital project involving water plant improvements throughout town.

“The estimate and budget is $1.1 million,” Procurement Manager Matt Perry said of the replacement project.

Earlier this month, the City Council voted to cover projects at both the solid waste transfer station and the city’s water treatment plants, with costs to be reimbursed with bond financing. The bulk of that money – $3,625,000 –would be used for a new generator and day tank at the 44th Street water plant, the recoating of a chlorine scrubber system at the Gorman Avenue water plant, and new windows and metal doors at the 14th Street water plant.

At the 14th Street plant alone, chemical fumes and exposure have damaged windows and doors, which have rusted frames and etched hardware, according to a staff report. On Tuesday, the City Council voted unanimously to accept the nine bids it received for the project. Those proposals ranged from $595,762 to $1,241,000. Staff are expected to come back with a recommended vendor, with project costs to be funded through a bond sale scheduled to take place this fall.

Beach enforcement patrol issues canopy reg citations

While four citations have been issued, staff says the division’s goal is education

By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor

(July 31, 2026) Employees with the new beach enforcement division issued three more citations this month, with all of them occurring on the same day for the same tent violation.

In an update Tuesday, Emergency Services Director Joe Theobald told the Ocean City Council that three more citations have been added to the tally as employees continue to patrol the beach for code violations.

The citations, according to staff, occurred on July 18 and reportedly involved beachgoers’ repeated violation of the city’s new tent and canopy regulations.

“Compliance has been good,” he said of the program, “and the last thing we want to do is give a citation.”

Earlier this year, the council voted to create a new division, which would spend the first summer season educating the public on the city’s beach regulations, including newly enacted tent and canopy laws.

Those laws – passed last year and amended in the spring – ban beach tents (with the exception of tents used for babies) and prohibit beachgoers from erecting beach canopies before 10 a.m. and then leaving those canopies unattended; prohibit beach canopies larger than 15-by-15 feet;

require a 3-foot separation around a canopy’s perimeter; and require the anchoring for such canopies to be contained within the canopy’s footprint.

According to data presented this week, between Memorial Day weekend and July 19, employees tagged 1,880 unoccupied canopies, followed up with 1,265 owners and made contact with 3,245 people involving the canopy ordinance.

Beyond the canopy regulations, the beach enforcement division also enforced 1,079 other ordinance violations, including those for smoking, ball playing, alcohol, open fires and more.

The division has also recorded 437 dogs on the beach, with one citation issued on July 11.

The three infractions recorded on July 18 now bring the citation count to four, officials report. However, Theobald said the goal continues to be education and public compliance.

“The overwhelming beach population is happy with the program,” he said. “It leaves the guards to do what they need to do, and you put rules in place for a reason. The beach patrol staff says – I’ll use condo row uptown – it’s the best they’ve seen it in 20 years, because they are able to get through things now. So, it’s working.”

Mayor Rick Meehan agreed.

“I think this is important, and I think it’s been appreciated by the beachgoers and all the residents,” he said. “The emails I’m getting are positive.”

Party at museum will honor America, U.S. Coast Guard

(July 31, 2026) The Ocean City Museum Society will celebrate two national anniversaries next week with a day of history, music and hands-on activities.

On Aug. 4, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., the Ocean City Life-Saving Station will host Angels in Oilskins – A Living History Experience, in recognition of the country’s 250th anniversary and the U.S. Coast Guard’s 236 years of service.

Held both inside and outside the museum, the free event will transform the Life-Saving Station into an immersive journey through coastal history.

Visitors will experience interactive exhibits and demonstrations that highlight the early days of the U.S. Life-Saving Service, including historic medicine, daily routines, traditional foods, and crafts, according to the Museum Society.

Featured participants and activities include a Navy Nurse presentation on historic medicine; live sea shanties performed by the Jolly Tars; a raw oyster bar by Harrison’s Harbor Watch; a live farm animal encounter by Saltwater Mini Farm; a spinning wheel demonstration by Rackliffe House and Julia A. Purnell Museum; a decoy carving demonstration by the Ward Foundation; coastal rescue history presented by the Indian River Life-Saving Station; a lighthouse erosion demonstration from the Zwaanendael Museum; uniforms in action by Historic Lewis; nautical knot tying with the United States Coast Guard Auxiliary; and a special meet-andgreet with rescue dogs from Colonial Newfoundland Rescue. The event is free and open to the public, and guests are encouraged to bring family and friends for a day of coastal culture.

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County schools tops in math, ELA

(July 28, 2026) Worcester County Public Schools outperformed all school systems in the state in both mathematics and English/Language Arts in the latest round of student testing, according to a state Department of Education announcement Tuesday.

During the state Board of Education meeting, State Superintendent Dr. Carey Wright and staff provided an update on student performance on state assessments administered in spring 2026 in English/Language Arts (ELA) and mathematics. Statewide, assessment results showed Maryland’s students experienced progress in both ELA and mathematics.

Worcester County student performance on the spring ELA assessments continued to top all other school systems in Maryland with 69.9 percent of students scoring as proficient or higher,

over 18 percentage points above the state average of 51.7 percent.

For the second consecutive year, seventh grade proficiency in ELA grew at every school across the county, with all schools increasing proficiency by four percentage points or better.

Additionally, eighth grade proficiency also rose across all schools, with Pocomoke Middle School making the largest jump with an increase of 6.4 percentage points. Another stand-out performance in ELA was Pocomoke Elementary School’s (PES) third grade, which increased 17.5 percentage points over last year.

Worcester County topped the state by over 21 percentage points in mathematics with 48.8 percent of students reaching proficiency across all assessments.

A particular highlight is Buckingham

Elementary School’s fourth grade results, which increased by 20.1 percentage points over last year. Additionally, third grade results at Ocean City Elementary School and PES increased by 17.5 percentage points and 17.4 percentage points respectively.

“We are incredibly proud that Worcester County Public Schools continues to lead the state in both English/Language Arts and mathematics,” said Dr. Annette Wallace, superintendent of Worcester County Public Schools.

“At the same time, we know these scores tell only part of our story. They are an important measure of student learning, but they also remind us that our work continues. We remain committed to using this data to strengthen instruction, support every learner, and ensure each child is known by name, strength, and need.”

Globalinx deal on despite county’s data hub freeze

By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor

(July 31, 2026) While the county’s elected officials last week passed a moratorium on data center and cable landing station projects, Ocean City Manager Terry McGean says the decision has no impact on a lease agreement between the resort government and Globalinx, the company proposing a 25,000square-foot facility along Route 611.

Last Tuesday, the Worcester County Commissioners approved a 12-month moratorium on new permit applications and suspending any current matters before the county’s board of zoning appeals.

The pause, officials say, will allow the county more time to study the potential impacts of cable landing stations and data centers on resources and surrounding properties, and identify where such projects may be appropriate and what regulations would be needed.

The decision is a direct response to an application submitted by Virginia-based Globalinx, which is seeking county approvals to construct a cable landing station along Route 611. The facility, the company reports, will be used as a connection point for subsea cables that run from the southwest coast of Ireland to a landing at the Ocean City Municipal Airport.

The Town of Ocean City, in return, will receive $800,000 over the course of the 25-year lease, plus another $200,000 per cable for any additional cables that are installed. When reached for comment, McGean said the city’s agreement with Globalinx remains in effect.

“The lease agreement placed the burden of getting all necessary permits with Globalinx and their inability to secure permits does not negate the lease,” he said in an email last Thursday. “Gloabalinx has not requested to terminate or amend the agreement at the present time. If they do so, then we will review their request.”

The moratorium passed last week pauses the county’s review of the project, which was scheduled to go before the county’s zoning appeals board next month.

Globalinx, through attorney Demetrios Kaouris, expressed disappointment with the county’s actions and said the company plans to evaluate its options. When asked last Friday what the county’s moratorium would mean for the company and its lease agreement with the Town of Ocean City, Globalinx CEO Greg Twitt declined to elaborate.

“I’m not really sure,” he said in an interview. “We’re looking into it. I can’t say anything right now.”

McGean said the timeline to install the cable connection is heavily dependent on the state and federal permitting process, as the cables would need to run along the ocean floor, under Assateague Island, and then under the bay before coming ashore at the airport. Those permits, he added, are expected to take two years, with cable installation beginning in October or November of 2027.

Giant food store to open by end of year, developer says

Square.

Five spaces in the center’s inline retail buildings have also been reserved, Busby said, with additional interest in the remaining storefronts.

By Brian Shane Staff Writer

(July 31, 2026) The long-awaited Giant supermarket under construction at Coastal Square is expected to open its doors by the end of the year, while its planned apartment complex remains delayed, according to the developer.

Interior work has begun on the roughly 60,000-square-foot grocery store at the intersection of routes 50 and 589. Construction of surrounding retail buildings is also progressing, and those buildings are expected to be roofed in the next six weeks.

Site work remains ongoing throughout the development, according to Zach Busby, a spokesman for developer Capano Management.

Busby said signed leases are in place for the Dash In and Wendy’s pad sites, while the developer remains in advanced discussions with an automotive service provider and an international coffee company.

Capano has publicly advertised Starbucks, Dash In, Wendy’s, and Valvoline as tenants at Coastal

The supermarket opening would mark a major milestone for a project that has moved through county, state, and federal reviews over the course of several years. The Worcester County Commissioners approved the original shopping center site plan in late 2023.

Plans expanded in 2024 when the developer promised to add 168 apartments to the western side of the 49acre property. Under the original plan, that portion of the site had been left undeveloped.

Federal environmental review continued into 2025 because construction would affect nearly an acre of nontidal wetlands and an agricultural drainage ditch.

Roadwork began last fall. The project includes widening and resurfacing portions of Route 50, stormwater improvements, and converting the intersection of routes 50 and 589 into a four-way junction that extends Route 589 directly into Coastal Square.

The State Highway Administration also said the project would include removing the traffic signal at nearby Brader Lane, the Route 50 entrance leading toward McDonald’s.

The residential portion, however, has fallen behind schedule. In late 2024, the developer said construction of a planned apartment complex could begin by the end of 2025 and would last about 14 months.

More than a year later, the apartments are still wrapped up in the county approval process. Plans call for 168 one-, two-, and three-bedroom units spread across seven three-story apartment buildings.

Busby said that portion cannot advance until tenants have committed to additional commercial pad sites, leaving the developer without a construction schedule, or projected opening date.

That stipulation comes from Worcester County, which modified its zoning code in 2023 to say that multifamily units in a highway-fronted commercial district require up to 65% or more of the land area to be improved with commercial uses, according to Planning Director Jennifer Keener.

Earlier plans called for about 120,000 square feet of commercial space, with Giant occupying roughly half of that, along with additional storefronts and freestanding businesses along Route 50.

Samuel Bowen Boulevard is also planned to extend west from the neighboring Ocean Landings shopping center into Coastal Square.

By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor

(July 31, 2026) Two boaters were transported to regional hospitals last Friday following a collision in the Isle of Wight Bay.

On July 24, just after 2 p.m., the Ocean City Fire Department responded to an incident on the bay near 19th Street. The initial reports indicated that four people were aboard two boats that collided headon in the Isle of Wight, according to Department and Community Engagement Officer Ryan Whittington. At the scene, fire department per-

sonnel aboard Fire Boat 1, alongside those from the Maryland Natural Resources Police, provided care to the boat’s occupants. Two trauma patients were then transported by Fire

Boat 1 to land.

while on the water.”

Whittington said one patient was taken by Ocean City paramedics to TidalHealth Peninsula Regional Hospital, while another was flown by LifeNet helicopter to the R Adams Cowley Shock Trauma Center in Baltimore. Each sustained non-lifethreatening injuries, he said.

Beyond Friday’s incident, the department reports that Fire Boat 1 remained busy throughout the weekend, most notably on Saturday, when crews responded to several service calls during the 11-hour shift. In one incident, three people were rescued from the Ocean City Inlet after they were swept out by the current.

“The exact cause of the collision remains under investigation by the Maryland Natural Resources Police,” Whittington said in a statement Monday. “This incident serves as an important reminder for all boaters to remain alert, maintain a proper lookout, operate at a safe speed, and always wear a properly fitted life jacket

“A friendly reminder: Always wear or have a life jacket readily available, carry a whistle, and be aware of changing water conditions,” a Facebook post from OCFD reads. “Stay safe and enjoy the water responsibly!”

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Assault charges filed

On July 24 at 2:05 a.m., Ocean City Police went to 50th Street in Ocean City for a reported assault. Behind a liquor store, police found an inebriated man, identified as Evan Antonio Taylor, with “his face completely covered in blood,” according to court documents. He was hospitalized after a police interview where he remembered little of the assault.

A witness told police that Taylor had been confronted and assaulted by two men who had exited in a pickup truck with Pennsylvania tags. Surveillance footage collected by police showed the two men punching and then kicking Taylor on the ground while “motionless and defenseless.”

Court documents state that police located the pickup truck on Coastal Highway and 45th Street at 3 a.m. They interviewed the two suspects, identified as Garret Riley Rosenberger, 23, and Carson Zane Sutsko, 23, both of Coal Township, Pennsylvania. Blood was on their clothes.

Rosenberger told police Taylor had been inebriated at a nearby bar and had been bothering their female friends. The men also told police Taylor had attempted to drive away but they stopped him. Sutsko refused to speak with police.

The men were arrested and charged with first- and second-degree assault.

Because Sutsko reportedly gave police a fake name at first, he was charged with identity fraud.

Brothers fighting

At 2:17 a.m. on July 22, Ocean City Police reported seeing two men fighting on the sidewalk on Coastal Highway at 50th Street. Police approached the men, who continued to tussle as they fell to the curb. The men were brothers, identified by police as Michael Angelo Disalvo and Vincent Joseph Disalvo.

Police on the scene separated the men. Michael told police, “This isn’t fair” and “It’s my brother.” He continued to pull his hands away and resisted attempts at arrest, court documents state. Police reported finding a baggie of cocaine in his pants pocket.

Police charged Michael Disalvo, 28, of Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, with affray, second-degree assault, drug possession, and resisting/interfering with arrest. Vincent Disalvo was charged with affray, second-degree assault and resist/interfere with arrest

Crack possession

On July 22 at 3:16 p.m., Ocean City Police responded to a call to assist paramedics at a hotel on Baltimore Avenue and Second Street. Paramedics said told arriving police, however, they didn’t need help, and they cleared the scene.

Fire officials on the scene then told police that the man who had initially called the authorities, identified as Timothy Edward Amos, had an active arrest warrant out of Dorchester County.

Police arrested Amos and found that he was in possession of a glass crack pipe and crack cocaine. Amos told police the pipe did not belong to him because he was holding it for a friend, and that the crystalline substance was salt, according to court documents.

Police charged Amos, 63, of Millsboro, Delaware, with drug possession and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Vehicle masturbation

A local man was charged with indecent exposure after allegedly being found masturbating in his vehicle.

On July 24, about 11:43 a.m., a report of an indecent exposure was received on 135th Street. Police were told

a male in a silver Nissan sedan had been sitting in front of his house for hours. The resident told police he approached Joshua Connor, 35, of Ocean City, in his vehicle after a juvenile girl alerted him the man was masturbating.

When police approached the vehicle, the officer observed open containers at his feet of White Claw Surge Lime hard seltzer. Connor was then told why he was approached initially, sharing the story of a juvenile witnessing his penis and seeing him masturbating.

Connor denied the story, saying his father had testicular cancer and had lost a testicle. Connor said he was checking for tumors around his testicles, stating, “he was possibly intoxicated and he may have done it longer then he meant to,” according to the statement of probable cause.

Connor is charged with indecent exposure and open container of alcohol possession.

Pocomoke child’s drowning stuns residents

By Brian Shane Staff Writer

(July 31, 2026) A 4-year-old girl reported missing from her Pocomoke City home was found drowned Sunday in the Pocomoke River, police said.

Preliminary results of an autopsy conducted Monday by the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner in Baltimore showed that the official cause of death was accidental drowning, according to Worcester County Sheriff Matt Crisafulli.

Police said there was no indication of foul play and the Worcester County Bureau of Investigation continues to investigate.

The child’s mother reported the girl missing in a 911 call around 10 a.m. July 26 from their Clarke Avenue home, according to the sheriff’s office.

Pocomoke City Police said on social

media that the girl had last been seen wearing pajamas, with her hair in a ponytail. Police also said it was unclear who had been watching her before she was reported missing.

Sheriff’s deputies assisting with the search found the girl around 10:45 a.m. near the Laurel Street boat ramp, which is one-tenth of a mile from the family’s house. First responders attempted CPR but were unable to revive her, according to the sheriff’s office.

Although authorities withheld the child’s name, a public GoFundMe campaign identified her parents as Rose Jerome and Wesder Philistin.

By early Thursday, 275 donors had helped to raise about $13,000 toward the campaign’s $20,000 goal.

“No parent should ever have to endure the pain of losing a child,” the fundraiser message says, adding that

the couple is facing funeral and related expenses.

Pocomoke City Mayor Todd Nock organized a community vigil Sunday evening at Cypress Park.

“There are simply no words that can ease the pain of a loss like this,” Nock wrote on social media. “Our entire community grieves alongside you, and we ask everyone to keep this family lifted in prayer during this unimaginable time.”

Emotions were raw at the vigil, where residents expressed shock, sadness, and disbelief, according to Crisafulli, who attended. He said community members joined law enforcement officers, educators, and clergy at the gathering.

“It was a powerful reminder that the people of our community stand shoulder to shoulder in love, compas-

sion, and support for one another,” Crisafulli told OC Today-Dispatch. “The community is really struggling to comprehend the loss of a life that was taken too soon.”

Burn ban lifted in Worcester County after recent rain

(July 31, 2026) Due to improving drought conditions and recent rainfall across Worcester County and the Lower Eastern Shore, the Worcester County Fire Marshal's Office in coordination with the Worcester County Department of Environmental Programs has lifted the countywide Open Burning Ban, effective immediately.

The decision follows continued improvements in drought conditions reported by the U.S. Drought Monitor and consultation with state and local environmental officials. Recent thunderstorms have significantly improved soil moisture and reduced wildfire risk throughout much of the county. While groundwater levels and stream flows continue to recover, current conditions no longer warrant the temporary restrictions that were put in place.

Although the burn ban has been lifted, residents are reminded that conditions can still change rapidly, particularly during periods of hot, dry, or windy weather. Anyone conducting open burning is urged to do so responsibly and in accordance with Worcester County's Open Burning Regulations.

The Worcester County Fire Marshal's Office encourages residents to take the following precautions when conducting any outdoor burning:

• Never leave a fire unattended.

• Avoid burning on windy days or when weather conditions could cause embers to spread.

• Keep a water source, hose, or fire extinguisher readily available.

• Burn only approved natural vegetation and materials permitted by county regulations.

• Ensure the fire is completely extinguished before leaving the area.

Residents are also reminded that smoke from outdoor burning can impact neighboring properties and roadways. Burn responsibly to help reduce air pollution and prevent unnecessary fire department responses.

The Worcester County Fire Marshal's Office will continue to monitor weather conditions and wildfire activity. If conditions deteriorate, additional restrictions may become necessary. For questions regarding open burning regulations or to determine whether burning is permitted, contact the Worcester County Fire Marshal's Office at 410-632-5666 or visit the Worcester County Fire Marshal’s Office website for additional information.

White Marlin Open features

6-day format, new

(July 31, 2026) The 53rd Annual White Marlin Open, the world’s largest and richest billfish tournament, presented by Pure Lure, is set to return to Ocean City, next week, Aug. 3-8, with an exciting lineup of new formats, expanded divisions, and enhanced opportunities for anglers and fans alike.

Building on more than five decades of history, thousands of boats, and over $113 million awarded, this year’s tournament introduces several highly anticipated updates designed in response to participant feedback.

New “fish 3 of 6” format

For 2026, teams will compete under a new “Fish 3 of 6” format, allowing boats to choose any three of the six tournament days to fish. This added flexibility gives anglers the ability to strategize around weather and fishing conditions, enhancing both safety and competitiveness while maintaining the integrity of the event.

Introduction of non-sonar division

divisions

In response to growing demand, the tournament is proud to introduce a Non-Sonar Division, designed specifically for boats that do not utilize omnidirectional sonar technology. This division creates a level playing field for traditional anglers and offers an exciting new competitive category within the tournament.

The sonar technology provides a distinct advantage for fishing teams, See TOURNEY Page 30

Featuring Wineries from Maryland

Tourney announces changes

Continued from Page 29

offering a 360-degree panoramic view underwater and able to scan between 1,000 and 3,000 feet around a vessel.

New daily big fish charity added entry

A new daily big fish charity added entry level will debut this year, giving participants the chance to compete for daily prizes while supporting meaningful causes. Proceeds from this category will benefit Coastal Hospice, Seaside Athletic Center, and Believe In Tomorrow, further strengthening the White Marlin Open’s commitment to giving back to the community.

Updated small boat division

The small boat division has been redefined for 2026 and will now include boats 40 feet and under, broadening access and encouraging participation from a wider range of vessels.

Marlin Fest grows

seat to watch the fleet return each day after searching for a million-dollar marlin. The world-famous weighins will be streamed live on a large screen directly on the beach, ensuring every visitor can experience the excitement.

Each August, the White Marlin Open draws hundreds of boats and thousands of anglers from around the world, all competing for life-changing prize money and a place in tournament history. With these new enhancements, the 53rd Annual White Marlin Open promises to deliver even more excitement both on the water and at the scales.

“We’re always listening to our participants and looking for ways to evolve while staying true to what makes this tournament so special,” said Madelyne Motsko, tournament director of the White Marlin Open.

In tandem with the tournament, Marlin Fest, presented by the Maryland Army National Guard, will also expand to a full six-day schedule, transforming the Ocean City Inlet into a vibrant destination for families, fans, and visitors.

Attendees can enjoy free admission, live entertainment, food and drink, vendors, and interactive exhibits, along with a true front-row

“From the flexibility of the new format to the addition of new divisions and community-focused initiatives, this year is shaping up to be one of the most dynamic yet.”

Sponsors for this year's event include Pure Lure, Pohanka of Salisbury, Pelagic, PNC Bank, Jarrett Bay Boatworks, Park Place Jewelers, Rick Bogert, Duffie Boatworks, Hook Optics, Okiaya, SORD Products, PYY Marine, Pleasure Cove Marina, The Stoke, Life Med, Non-Typical, Contender Boats, Yamaha, 92-7 & 98-5

The chart shows the last five years of species catches for the White Marlin Open, which is held each year in Ocean City during the first full week of August.

Non-sonar division added to WMO

WGMD Radio, Miller Lite, Mid Shore Electronics, Old Town Wind Bells, Viking Yachts, Residence Inn By Marriott, Capital Electric, Bank of Ocean City, Seakeeper, Guy Harvey, Chesapeake Urology, Airmar Technology, Strike Footware, Polar, Party Central- Rental Equipment, Bayliss Boatworks, Big Game Fishing Journal, Catch-n-Carry, Garmin Interna-

tional, Johnson & Towers, Phenom Yachts, Rice Law, SeaMark, Sun Cruiser, Hook'em Right Coffee, OluKai, South Jersey Yacht Sales, Legacy Search Advisors, Mack Boring, Boujee Marlin, Cummins, RagLady, Lighthouse Bay, Reel Inn, Bulovas Restorations, Shore Point Cottages, Bad Monkey, Baitmasters of South Florida, Carter Cat Machin-

ery, Maryland Diesel and Fuel Injection, Delaware Business Systems, Vivamee Hospitality with local resorts Kent Island Resort and Queenstown Harbor, Spencer Yachts/Spencer Brokerage, Brown & Brown, My Five, Direct Mortgage Loans, and WMDT. Registration details and full tournament rules are available at www.whitemarlinopen.com.

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Taylor House to host annual Peach Festival this Saturday

By Tara Fischer Staff Writer

(July 31, 2026) The annual Peach Festival returns to the Calvin B. Taylor House Museum this weekend with vendors, entertainment, and treats inspired by the fruit that once fueled the Town of Berlin’s culture and economy.

On Saturday, Aug. 1, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., the Taylor House is hosting the Peach Festival, an event that has brought thousands of attendees to the museum’s lawn for nearly 20 years.

Taylor House Museum Executive Director Melissa Reid said the fair attracts about 4,000 people each summer.

Aligned with the day’s theme, the festival will feature peaches for sale from Mid-Atlantic growers and food with a peachy twist from a variety of vendors.

Worcester County and Maryland’s ProStart Teacher of the Year, Chef Phil Cropper, is slated to demonstrate his take on fruit dishes. He will also have comestibles created and bottled by his culinary students from Worcester Technical High School on hand.

Reid said that since the COVID-19 pandemic, the Taylor House has switched up the kinds of vendors they invite to the Peach Festival. Before 2020, jewelry artists, pottery creators, and similar crafters sold their products. Now, however, the event prioritizes those

whose items cannot be found at a shop or restaurant in downtown Berlin.

Reid maintained that this move encourages visitors to patronize the town’s small businesses and prop up unique, lesser-known dealers and nonprofits.

“We realized after COVID, we wanted to make sure that if people were coming to the lawn for the Peach Festival, we wanted to send them up into the town to take their dollars and spend them locally in the shops,” she said. “We really dialed back on our retail vendors, and we have focused more on different kinds of vendors you can’t get in downtown Berlin… And we hope that sending people into Berlin makes it a great day for the merchants.”

For example, on Saturday, festival goers can expect to find flowers from Bay Street Blooms and treats from Sweet Addictions. Additionally, members of the Purnell Cemetery Foundation are offering guests barbecue chicken.

According to a press release issued by the event’s organizers, the Peach Festival will begin with a presentation of the colors by members of Berlin’s American Legion Posts. Guests may spend the afternoon observing the demonstrations, displays, sales, vendors, and information tables.

The event is family-friendly with activities for all ages. Face painting and

Peach Festival raises funds for Taylor House

kids’ games will be available for the younger attendees. For those looking for some whimsy, Magic Jack is set to perform impressive and captivating feats and tricks. Jack’s showtimes are 11 a.m. and 1:30 p.m.

A peach-based baking contest will test which amateur chefs have the most pastry prowess, and a pie eating contest, with day-of registration available, will see who can scarf down a mini treat the quickest. Attendees will also have the chance to guess how many peach pits are in a jar. All competition winners will receive prizes.

Furthermore, musical performances by the Bilenki Duo and the Berlin Airlift are planned for Saturday’s celebration.

While the peachy fun is outside the Taylor House, museum operators encourage visitors to tour the inside of the historic 1832 property.

Reid said the Peach Festival is the Taylor House’s largest fundraiser.

“There are no other fundraisers or events that we do that come even close to the Peach Festival,” she said. “For us, it’s crucial…Every dollar that gets spent on the lawn of the Taylor House during the Peach Festival goes right back to

helping us stay open and telling the stories of Berlin.”

Reid added that this year’s Peach Festival T-shirt designs have a local tie-in. The executive director said that one of the shirts was created by a Worcester Technical High School student, and a Salisbury University graduate created another.

“This year we branched out, and instead of sourcing a design and paying somebody or looking through stock designs, we’ve been working with local, young artists to showcase their work,” the museum director said. “If people buy

a Peach Festival T-shirt, they should make sure they actually buy it on the lawn at the Taylor House.”

The fruit festival has been held in Berlin for the past 18 years to honor the town’s history as a powerhouse in the country’s peach industry. For about 50 years, from around the 1890s until the 1940s, the Berlin-based Harrison Orchards not only dominated the United States’ peach market but was also the largest mail-order fruit orchard in the world.

The farm created between 250 and 500 jobs in and around Berlin.

Ocean 98’s “Cash for College” $5,000 Award recipients for 2026 are Audrey Pham, Worcester County, top, (Pocomoke High School); Elijah George, middle, Wicomico County (James M. Bennett High School); and Isabella Mekulski, above, Sussex County (Cape Henlopen High School) Pham will be attending St Mary’s College of Maryland to study Chemistry in the fall. George will be attending University of Maryland Baltimore County to study Political Science and pre-legal, and Mekulski will be attending Ursinus College to study Biochemistry and Molecular Biology. Since its inception, the Ocean 98 Cash for College Award is given directly to each student allowing he or she to use as they see fit. Originally, the award was $1,000 per student. It was increased to $2,500 in 2022 and then again increased to its current $5,000 amount in 2023.

Snow Hill’s Blessing of the Combines set for Saturday

(July 31, 2026) The 26th Annual Blessing of the Combines returns to Snow Hill on Saturday, Aug. 1 with the goal to honor and celebrate local farmers.

community together along with locals and Lower Eastern Shore visitors to honor the agricultural roots of Worcester County.

A highlight of the event, which will be held from 10 a.m.-3 p.m., is the annual parade of combines at 11 a.m. Drivers will include Rev. Oren Perdue, Brent Ennis, William Figgs, Brad Hauck, Lee Holloway, Ben Merritt, Buster Powell, Marcus Robins, David Shockley and Walt Pusey.

The event, celebrating its 26th anniversary this year, brings the farm

The Snow Hill Blessing of the Combines is organized by a small private committee that has been led by the Payne Family since its inception. Becky Payne’s three daughters, Kirby, Courtney and Ashley are all involved, bringing their husbands and friends along, too.

“I never dreamt it would have lasted this long,” Becky said. “It’s been my pleasure to do this for the

Blessing of the Combines honors farming community

farmers. I have a lot of help.”

Becky said the idea came out of talking around the dinner table about finding a way to highlight the town and county. She was tasked with getting farmers on board to shine up their harvesters and drive them through town. Nobody she asked said no and they chose the first Saturday in August as the date.

“They later admitted they thought I had lost my complete and total mind,” she said with a laugh.

One farmer after the first year told Payne when he drove his machine over the Snow Hill Drawbridge heading into town and saw the street decorated with corn stalks and bows, “He said, ‘I have to admit, the hair stood up on my arms.’”

In the first year, the crowd was estimated at about 500 people and in the years since, the event, the crowd and the combines have grown. The parade is now led by the Snow Hill Junior Reserve Officer’s Training Corp Color Guard and includes antique tractors, garden tractors and other vehicles along with the headlining combines. Last year featured more than 60 vendors, 129 classic cars on display, live entertainment, games for kids, food, a petting zoo and free pony rides. An estimated 6,000 people attended.

“Now, it’s turned into a full-blown festival,” said Brianna Dix, Worcester

County communications and marketing manager. “This is very, very special because there isn’t anything else like it.”

Dix said the annual heritage event is a great opportunity to thank local farmers, pray over the upcoming harvest, engage with educational organizations, and enjoy live entertainment, kids’ activities and tasty food.

The event begins at 10 a.m. with live music from the Shaw Family of Faith Deliverance and Faith Fellowship UWOCC.

The parade is set for 11 a.m. As has become tradition after the parade, the combines park along Green Street for spectators to view and tour during the rest of the event. Rachel Leigh Deao will perform during the program. Live music will also be provided by the Jim Cochran Band from noon-3 p.m..

A “throttle thrust” will signal the Master of Ceremonies to begin the program which includes a keynote address Maryland Farm Bureau Executive Director Parker Welch and the actual blessing given by Pastor Stephanie Clayville and individual equipment blessings by members of the Snow Hill Ministerial Association. The combines will head back to their respective farms at 3 p.m.

For more information, visit www.blessingofthecombines.org.

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Berlin vies to be setting of holiday Hallmark movie

By Tara Fischer Staff Writer

(July 31, 2026) While Berlin has long been deemed America’s Coolest Small Town, it hopes to earn a new title as the merriest and secure the chance to be featured in a holiday movie.

As part of the Hallmark Channel’s 25th birthday, the network is scouring the nation to find the town with the most festive atmosphere, charming air and Christmas cheer. The effort will recognize towns that go the extra mile to create unforgettable holiday seasons for residents and visitors year after year. And Berlin is in the running.

Of the communities that enter the competition, Hallmark will choose 25 of the most impressive as Official Hallmark Christmas Towns. These top towns will advance to the public voting phase and receive a promotional toolkit designed to engage residents, visitors, and businesses in the ballot-casting process.

At the conclusion of voting, one hometown will be named Hallmark’s Merriest Christmas Town and highlighted in an official Hallmark film. The winner should be a place that captures the cozy, joyous feeling of the wintertime months to align with the company’s extensive catalog of holiday flicks.

Any jurisdiction across the country may enter the contest. However, Berlin was invited to participate, staff said.

The Shore town has maintained a reputation as a place with picturesque streets, buildings, and celebrations. As such, Berlin caught the attention of representatives of the Hallmark Channel, who contacted the municipality to encourage them to enter the competition.

Ivy Wells, the town’s economic and community development director, said Hallmark contacted Berlin via email. That correspondence was shared with this publication last week and read, “To celebrate Hallmark Channel’s 25th birthday, we are officially inviting your community to enter Hallmark’s Merriest Christmas Towns Contest! The search is on to find where joy lives, and we think it might just live in Berlin.”

Berlin’s efforts to celebrate the holiday festivities include the alwayscrowded annual Christmas Parade through Main Street and the yearly Hanukkah Menorah Lighting. Additionally, the town’s commitment to preserving its historic architecture has fostered strong community pride. So much so that the Hallmark Channel took notice.

Berlin’s charm has captivated filmmakers before. In the 1990s, Julia Roberts and Richard Gere starred in the movie, “Runaway Bride,” which was shot in the small town. Berlin also served as the setting for scenes of the 2002 motion picture “Tuck Everlasting.”

Residents and visitors may nominate Berlin for the contest at www.hallmarkchannel.com/merriest. The deadline is Aug. 10.

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Too much trash, town staff reports

HAPPINESS

MONDAY-FRIDAY 3-6PM

By Tara Fischer Staff Writer

(July 31, 2026) Before the Town of Berlin considers stopping commercial trash pickup, municipal officials are seeking ways to address hazardous and unsightly overflow of restaurant food waste that the public works department says is becoming too burdensome to handle.

At Monday’s Berlin Town Council meeting, Public Works Director Jimmy Charles reported that 11 of the shared commercial trash containers on Pitts Street used by downtown businesses are consistently overflowing, with excess waste ending up on the ground.

BURGERS, $4 KICK THE KEG & $5 LOCAL BEERS

FRIDAY 9:30PM Beats By

The Berlin Public Works Department collects this trash every Monday and Friday. However, the participating businesses only pay for one pickup a week, according to Charles. Even with the extra subsidized service, Charles said the waste thrown out in the bins is at max capacity when his crew shows up.

“In the last months, the last six months or so, we’ve seen a volume where we’re actually going twice a week to a specific location,” Charles said. “When we’ve gotten to this location on a Friday, all trash cans are filled. There’s trash on the ground. Then when we get there on Monday, it’s the same thing. They’re only paying for one pickup, but we’re doing it twice a week.”

The public works director asked the mayor and council for permission to notify the businesses that the town will return to one trash collection per week unless they pay for an additional pickup. He said the current arrangement is placing a strain on public works employees, as the containers’ volume and weight continue to worsen.

“I would like to send them a notice that it will either go back to once-a-week trash pickup and then they have the option of paying for the additional pickup,” Charles said. “To pay for the service for what we’re providing to them. It’s becoming a hardship on the crews. This trash is very, very heavy.”

He added that his team has been dealing with the issue since the spring.

“It’s a repeat every week, every Fri-

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Fixes sought for trash overflow

Continued from Page 46

day, every Monday,” he said. “We’re not getting the payment for the volume of trash we’re picking up.”

Council Vice President Dean Burrell questioned whether the town should continue providing the service at all.

“The taxpayers are actually subsidizing this trash pickup,” Burrell said. “Why can’t we say … we’re done, and you need to contract with someone to remove your trash?”

Charles responded that his original recommendation was to provide five more weeks of service before requiring businesses to secure private commercial trash collection by Sept. 1, giving them time to make arrangements.

However, the council ultimately favored delaying any decision until restaurant owners could return with potential solutions. Affected businesses are encouraged to attend the Berlin Town Council meeting on Aug. 10 at 6 p.m. to discuss the problem.

“I want to really give them the opportunity to speak,” Berlin Mayor Tyndall said. “I don’t disagree that it’s challenging and we need to have a plan, but bring them in on Aug. 10 so we’re not moving the needle to the end of the month.”

Tyndall also suggested public works gather additional information on the weight of the overflowing trash to better understand the true cost of servicing the businesses.

“We spend over $200,000 a year in

tipping fees,” he said, referring to charges the county assesses to dispose of waste at the landfill. “If we’re talking about cost recovery … we need to have an idea what this sample weight could be so we can make sure the cost is there as well.”

Charles told the council businesses currently pay $150 per can, per quarter, for commercial trash collection. While one business pays $600 quarterly for four containers, he estimated the amount of waste generated would more accurately reflect a cost of about $1,000 per quarter to service.

“We’re trying to somehow eliminate this area because the volume … we’re losing money,” Charles said.

Additionally, Tyndall questioned whether additional collections were a realistic long-term option if the department lacks the personnel and equipment to handle the workload.

Charles agreed the underlying issue is the amount of food waste being generated.

“This has been going on since March and April,” he said. “The volume has been there for months. It’s hard on our equipment because of this weight … it’s a huge volume.”

Council members agreed to continue the conversation at their Aug. 10 meeting. Downtown restaurant owners may present possible alternatives for managing commercial food waste at that time. The meeting will begin at 6 p.m.

Sign auction exceeding hopes

By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor

(July 31, 2026) With a week still to go, Plak That owner Wyatt Harrison said an online sign auction to benefit a local respite house has already exceeded his expectations.

“Honestly, everyone has just been so excited,” he told the OC TodayDispatch this week. “It’s rare you get a win-win-win, between the town, a private contractor, and a nonprofit.”

Earlier this year, the Town of Ocean City hired Harrison’s company to replace municipal signs from the inlet all the way to 146th Street. The project was part of the city’s rebranding initiative involving welcome signs, wayfinding and regulatory placards, and more.

While the retired signs were destined for the recycling bin, Harrison said he quickly discovered that several community members were interested in purchasing some of the 200-plus signs in his possession. To make it fair, he came up with the idea for an online auction, with proceeds to benefit Believe in Tomorrow Children’s House by the Sea.

On July 17, Plak That launched its auction website, featuring street, dune crossing, rip current, regulatory and bicycle signs. Many of the retired signs are being auctioned off to the highest bidder, while other signs – those with several duplicates – are being sold for a fixed price.

“This thing is going crazy,” Harri-

son said. “We’re now a little over a week in, and we’ve already had over 100 people pick up fixed-priced items from the shop.”

As far as auctioned items go, Harrison said roughly 2,700 bids have been placed as of Tuesday morning. Some items – most notably the Boardwalk street signs – are currently going for more than $700.

“I would not be shocked if a few street signs get up to $1,000 or $1,200,” he said.

Harrison said participants will have until Aug. 7 to place their online bids. He said each category will have staggered end times, giving people enough time to submit final offers in each category.

“That way people can have a better chance at winning multiple signs,” he said.

As the auction continues, Harrison said he has been “amazed” by the volume of sales. For example, he said all rip current signs sold out within 48 hours, while bike regulation signs sold out “almost instantly.”

“We’re shipping signs all over the country …,” he said. “It’s exceeded my expectations, and we’re still two weeks out.”

Those interested in bidding can visit plakthat.com/pages/ocean-city-signauction to view available signs. Proceeds will benefit Believe in Tomorrow Children’s House by the Sea, a respite house for critically ill kids and their families.

DONATION TOWARD COLORING BOOKS

The Marlin Club of OC presented the USCG Auxiliary, Flotilla 12-05, Ocean City a check for $500 for their continued support of the ‘Dock Safety’ coloring book. Making the presentation on behalf of the Marlin Club Crew of OC were, from left, Chris Butter and Susan Seifert and accepting the donation are, from left, Dan Collins, Frank deLaurentis, and Flotilla Commander Glen Duffy. The 20-page coloring book is a unique teaching tool that addresses an unforeseen danger. It is designed to provide an opportunity for parents and grandparents to spend quality time with their children. Each page has a safety message to encourage caution and the proper behavior near the water. SUBMITTED PHOTO/ OC TODAY-DISPATCH

National Night Out planned in OC

(July 31, 2026) The Ocean City Police Department invites residents, visitors, and members of our business community to join us for National Night Out on Tuesday, Aug. 4, from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at Northside Park's West Lagoon Field. National Night Out is a nationwide community-building event that strengthens the partnerships between law enforcement, first responders, and the community. In Ocean City, it's an opportunity to connect with the officers,

firefighters, emergency personnel, and community organizations that work together every day to keep our town safe.

"National Night Out is about bringing people together," said Chief Raymond J. Austin. "Whether you're a year-round resident, a visitor, a member of our business community, or one of the many international students who spend their summer working in Ocean City, we want everyone to feel welcome. Strong partnerships and open communication are what help keep Ocean City

a safe and vibrant community."

The event will feature representatives from the Ocean City Police Department, Ocean City Fire Department, Ocean City Fire Marshal's Office, Ocean City Emergency Services, Ocean City Quick Response Team, Ocean City Forensic Services Unit, Ocean City Mounted Unit, Ocean City K-9 Unit, Worcester County Sheriff's Office, Maryland State Police, and the United States Coast Guard.

Community partners, including TidalHealth Atlantic, the Worcester County Health Department, OC Elks Lodge and the Worcester County Child Advocacy Center, will also be on site to share valuable resources and information. Kona Ice will be serving frozen treats throughout the evening.

New this year, the Ocean City Police Department is partnering with the Summer Workforce Community to host its annual Exchange Day for J-1 students during National Night Out. The event celebrates the international students who spend their summers living and working in Ocean City while encouraging connections with local organizations and first responders. Be sure to stop by the Summer Workforce Community booth and test your FIFA World Cup skills in a fun soccer challenge. Donations will be accepted to benefit Diakonia on behalf of the J-1 program, helping support members of our community in need.

Guests can enjoy a variety of interactive activities, including:

• Meet-and-greet opportunities with first responders

• Police, fire, and emergency vehicle displays

• Bomb Squad, K-9, Mounted Unit, and drone demonstrations

• Citizens Police Academy and CERT program information

• Tug-of-war, cornhole, and family-friendly games

• Giveaways and activities for children

Whether you're interested in public safety, considering a career in law enforcement, or simply looking for a fun evening with your family, National Night Out offers something for everyone.

SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH

The Worcester County Fair will return to John Walter Smith Park in Snow Hill next weekend, featuring livestock, 4-H cooking, live music, robot and drone demos, concerts, tournaments, a pipeline eating contest, catfish races, a cake auction, car, Jeep, dog shows, local foods and brews.

Worcester County Fair set for Snow Hill next weekend

Berlin Liquor Store

(July 30, 2026) The Worcester County Fair returns to John Walter Smith Park in Snow Hill August 7–9, 2026, for three days of agriculture, entertainment, and family fun. Admission is free, and the fair is packed with summer activities for those of all ages. Fair hours are Friday from 4–8 p.m., Saturday from 10 a.m.–8 p.m., and Sunday from 10 a.m.–3 p.m.

"We're thrilled to welcome the community back to the Worcester County Fair for the third consecutive See FAIR Page 53

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Fair to offer robot

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Continued from Page 51

year," said Worcester County Recreation & Parks Special Events Manager Kyle Jarmon. "The fair celebrates Worcester County's rich agricultural heritage while creating new traditions through entertainment, friendly competition, and family experiences."

This year’s fair will feature livestock exhibits, 4-H cooking, robot and drone demonstrations, live music, contests, and more. Guests can test their skills in the Farmer Olympics, Pipeline Eating Contest, Turkey Calling Competition, and cornhole tournament, then take in crowd favorites, like the Catfish Races, cake auction, Wheels That Heal Car Show, Ocean City Jeep Club Show, local food, beverages, and interactive exhibits.

The entertainment lineup features the Leo Brooks Band, Ashley Wineland, Earth Jam, Free State Country Band, OCMD Boogiemen, and more performing all weekend long. All concerts are free.

The popular Worcester County Catfish Races return Friday and Saturday, with a $5 entry fee and a $500 cash prize awarded for the fastest fish.

Families will find nonstop fun in the Kids Zone, featuring face painting, the Fish-On Fishing Tank, inflatable bounce houses, a straw maze, and free carnival games. Saturday competitions will include watermelon eating, pie eating, greasy watermelon races, sack races, threelegged races, and donut-on-a-string challenges.

Browse more than 50 vendors offering handcrafted goods, local services, food trucks, specialty foods, and adult beverages. Explore indoor exhibits at the Worcester County Recreation Center, featuring entries from local residents.

For a full schedule along with any updates, visit www.worcestercountyfair.org or follow the Worcester County Fair on Facebook.

Town Of Ocean City Job Opportunities

Constitutional change could reshape state’s 1st District

By Stewart Dobson Editor

(July 31, 2026) When the Maryland General Assembly convenes for a special three-day session on Monday, its mission will be to draw up a constitutional amendment that allows redistricting authorities greater flexibility in a district’s design.

That’s a major development for voters on the Eastern Shore, which needs to draw population from adjacent counties to reach the state’s mandated district size. Currently, the 1st District has a population of 743,000 people. The Eastern Shore’s 2020 head count of slightly less than 457,000 leaves it 286,000 short of the district’s population requirements.

Over the years, Maryland has kept the Eastern Shore intact within the 1st District by jumping over the Chesapeake Bay and adding portions of southern Maryland counties. Other configurations have employed parts of Baltimore and Anne Arundel, and most recently Harford.

These historical shifts resulted in five reconfigured voting maps and seven congressional representatives — five Republicans and two Democrats — all of them conservatives of varying degrees.

But now, Democratic legislators, who have a huge numerical advan-

tage over Republicans, are joining the national fight over control of Congress and want to draw a 1st District that puts Republican Rep. Andy Harris at a deep disadvantage.

To do that, however, the Democrats need voters to approve an amendment to the state constitution that says legislative districts must be compact and contiguous and mindful of geographical boundaries.

Legislative districts and congressional districts aren’t the same thing and the state’s “compact and contiguous” standard regarding General Assembly voting districts had never been applied to federal congressional district configurations until 2022. That’s when Judge Lynne Battaglia ruled that a proposed 1st District design failed the state’s compactness test and constituted gerrymandering.

Nevertheless, establishing district boundaries by going to the other side of the bay is not a new approach.

Pictured at right are the configurations of the 1st District map since 1960. Some cross the bay and some, like the current one, do not. If voters approve the constitutional amendment, Democrats plan to have a new voting district map in time for the 2028 congressional primaries.

1st District 1972

1st District

2003-2012

1st District 1993-2002

1st District 2022

Although the Eastern Shore has been part of the 1st Congressional District since 1965 when Maryland began drawing its districts based on population totals, the district has included parts of other counties as well. As the maps show, the district has reached across the Chesapeake Bay in earlier configurations.

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Local student’s essay honored

(July 31, 2026) A sixth-grade student at Worcester Preparatory School in Berlin has won national honors in an Essay Contest sponsored by Benevolent and Protective Order of the Elks. The essay by 12-year-old Jude Waked of Rehoboth Beach on the subject of “What Does Service To Your Country Mean to You,” placed third in his division for sixth graders.

Jude also has received the MD DE DC Association Americanism Award, presented to him at the Association’s summer meeting at the Maritime Institute in Linthicum.

Jude’s essay was one of 140 received

by Ocean City Elks Lodge 2645. Following local and state judging, Jude’s essay was forwarded for national judging, where it was selected as third best in the country for sixth graders.

In his essay Jude wrote, “when I hear the word service, I think of noticing what others need and helping them without asking.” He also said “an important part of service is that it is selfless. Service is never about getting something in return.”

The Americanism Essay Contest for students in grades five through eight is held by the Elks, one of the oldest fraternal organizations in the country.

Who’s Where When

BLU CRABHOUSE / DISTRICT 24

410-289-3322

24th Street Bayside

Fri., July 31: Dickson Twins

Sat., Aug. 1: Mercury Agenda

Sun., Aug. 2: Matt Tichon

BURLEY OAK BREWING COMPANY

443-513-4647

10016 Old Ocean City Blvd., Berlin

Fri., July 31: Bumpin’ Uglies

Sun., Aug. 2: Steve Rondo

BUXY’S SALTY DOG & DRY DOCK 28

410-289-BUXY

28th Street Coastal Hwy.

Fri. & Sat., July 31 & Aug. 1: Matt Tichon

Sundays: Locals Night w/ DJ Deogee

Wednesdays: Karaoke w/ DJ Nick Hundley

Thurs., August 6: Aaron Howell Duo

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 31: Endless Ember Duo & Royal Flush

Sat., Aug. 1: Chis Diller Band & Permilla Project

Sun., Aug. 2: Boogiemen & Jason Lee

Mon., Aug. 3: DJ Bobby O & Matt Tichon

Tues., Aug. 4: Kasey Briggs Duo & Wayne Blake

Wed., Aug. 5: Fil Rhythm & Johnny Cardo

Thurs., Aug. 6: Chris Diller & Steve Bowers Duo

COCONUTS BEACH BAR

410-289-6846

Oceanfront At

Castle In The Sand Hotel

37th & 38th Streets

Fri., July 31: Darin Engh & Monkee Paw

Sat., Aug. 1: Dylan Canfield Trio & Rule G

Sun., Aug. 2: Matt Tichon & The Dunehounds

Mon., Aug. 3: Joey Fitz & Fil Rhythm

Tues., Aug. 4: Tony Mowen & DJ Wax

Wed., Aug. 5: Chris Diller Solo & Fred & Wilma

Thurs., Aug. 6: Kevin Poole Solo & Cool Change

COINS PUB

410-289-3100

28th Street Plaza On Coastal Hwy.

Fri, July 31: Rule G

Sat., Aug. 1: Jim Long & Soul Chase

Sundays: DJ Wax

Tues., Aug. 4: Jamin’ Brothers

CRABCAKE FACTORY BAYSIDE

302-988-5000

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

Sun., Aug. 2: Uncle Ward

Tues., Aug. 4: C-Miller

Wed., Aug. 5: True Country

FAGER’S ISLAND

410-524-5500

60th St., In The Bay

Fri., July 31: DJ RobCee, Dixon Hall & Radio Hero

Sat., Aug. 1: Great Train Robbery, DJ Vibe & Radio Hero

Sun., Aug. 2: Fizz & DJ Niknax

Mon., Aug. 3: Deck Party - DJ Wax, Faded Image, DJ DNIAL & The Boh Daddies

Best Beats On The Beach

AARON HOWELL DUO

Buxy’s Dry Dock 28: Thursday, August 6

A BREATH OF FRESH AIR

Jolly Jellyfish: Saturday, August 1

HIGH VOLTAGE

Fager’s Island: Thursday, August 6

ACID WASH

Purple Moose: Thursday, August 6

RULE G

Coins Pub: Friday, July 31 Coconuts Beach Bar: Saturday, August 1

CECILIA’S FALL

Harborside: Saturday, August 1

THE GAB CINQUE

Seacrets: Friday & Saturday, July 31 & August 1

AJ & JESSE

Fish Tales: Friday, July 31

THE DUNEHOUNDS

Coconuts Beach Bar: Sunday, August 2

Fager’s Island: Wednesday, August 5

Who’s Where When

Tues., Aug. 4:

Saltwater Sweat Line Dancing & Bryan Clark

Wed., Aug. 5: The Dunehounds & DJ Cruz

Thursdays: DJ Groove, High Voltage & Almost Creed

FISH TALES

410-289-0990

22nd Street & The Bay

Fri., July 31: AJ & Jesse

Sat., Aug. 1: Joe Wood

Sun., Aug. 2: Colossal Fossil Sauce

Wednesdays: DJ Wax

HARBORSIDE

410-213-1846

South Harbor Rd., West End O.C.

Fridays: DJ Billy T

Sat., Aug. 1: Cecilia’s Fall & DJ Bigler

Sundays: Opposite Directions & Charlie Travers

Wednesdays: DJ Billy T

Thursdays: Dust N Bones

JOLLY JELLYFISH BEACH CLUB

443-664-6147

98th Street Coastal Hwy.,

Plaza Condominium

Fri., July 31: Billy Zee’s Dueling Pianos

Sat., Aug. 1: A Breath Of Fresh Air

Sun., Aug. 2: On The Edge

Mon., Aug. 3: First Class

Tues., Aug. 4: All The Vibes

Wed., Aug. 5: Joe Mama & Friends

Thurs., Aug. 6: Colossal Fossil Sauce

PICKLES PUB

410-289-4891

8th Street & Philadelphia Ave.

Fridays: Beats By DeoGee

Sat., Aug. 1: TBA

Mon., Aug. 3: Karaoke w/ Wood

Tuesdays: Beats By Wax

Thursdays: Beats By Connair

PURPLE MOOSE SALOON

410-289-6953

Between Caroline & Talbot Streets On The Boards

Fri., July 31: Light Up The Moon & DJ Mary Jane

Sat., Aug. 1: Johnny Cardo (2pm) & DJ Papi

Sun., Aug. 2: DJ Noah Selt

Mondays & Thursdays: DJ Papi

Tuesdays: DJ Catdaddy

Wednesdays: DJ Rellew

Thurs., Aug. 6: Acid Wash

SEACRETS

410-524-4900

49th Street & Coastal Hwy.

Fri., July 31: DJ J-Spinz, Level Up, No Filter, DJ E-State, DJ Davie, DJ Bobby O & Gab Cinque

Sat., Aug. 1: DJ Crome, Gab Cinque

Chad Frick Band, DJ J-Spinz, No Filter, DJ Connair, DJ Davie & Screaming Monkeys

Sun, Aug. 2: Triple Rail Turn, DJ E-State, DJ Davie, DJ Cheech, DJ J-Spinz & Lost In Paris

Mon., Aug. 3: Blake Haley, DJ Davie & DJ E-State

Tues., Aug. 4: Turning The Tide, DJ E-State, DJ Davie, DJ J-Spinz & Carley Twigg

Wed., Aug. 5: DJ E-State, DJ J-Spinz, Full Circle Duo, DJ Cheech, & Steal The Sky

Thurs, Aug. 6: Faith Noel, DJ Cheech, DJ Davie & Steal The Sky

THE WEDGE

410-289-5121

806 S. Atlantic Ave.

Tues., Aug. 4: Boogiemen

Lifeguard scan keeps beachgoers protected

By Kristin Joson Contributing Writer

(July 31, 2026) When you arrive at the beach, your eyes naturally scan the sand for the perfect place to set up your blanket and umbrella, and then the water for the perfect place to swim. But for Ocean City’s lifeguards, scanning the beach and ocean is much more than a quick glance, it is a critical lifesaving skill. Summer is in full swing, and the beach is buzzing with vacationers, day-trippers, and locals soaking up everything Ocean City has to offer. With busy beaches come busy days for our lifeguards, officially known as Surf Rescue Technicians

(SRTs). While many might assume their most important tools are their speed, whistle, or rescue buoy, and those are certainly essential, there’s one skill that truly stands above the rest when it comes to keeping you and your loved ones safe: the “SCAN.”

The SRTs constantly perform 360degree surveillance (scans) of the water and the beach. Although SRTs cannot watch every single person for every single second, they are trained to watch over the beach patrons on their beach in an effective and efficient way that allows them to see any potential problems before they manifest themselves. These threats include rip currents, potential water rescues, wildlife, onshore medical emergencies, lost and found children and dangerous ordinance infractions

(holes, umbrellas, ball playing and alcohol).

During Surf Rescue Academy, SRTs are trained on how to have a good scan and to identify non-swimmers before they even enter the water. For example, beach patrons who are facing shore or heading towards shore are watched more closely (a person in trouble always seems to manage to be facing the beach rather than looking toward the horizon).

An SRT may ask, “Are they having any trouble coming back to the beach? Are they becoming tired and making no progress?” SRTs use a combination of the information they have about the water they guard and the information they gather from the behavior of the people they watch to keep everyone safe.

SRTs are responsible for the entire area around their guard stand including all water and beach area from the stand to their north to the stand to their south, including the beach and dune area behind them. This method of constantly looking for any signs of infractions, emergencies, or situations needing their attention is an active process and assures that every person is being watched by at least two SRTS at all times. Your SRT has both a primary scan which is the water and shoreline (180 degrees) between stands as well as a secondary scan which is the beach between stands and the area at the back of the beach (Also important but less critical). This scan is the SRT’s main proactive tool that enables them to do their job effectively and is one of the most critical skills

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a guard can develop to help keep everyone safe. Contrary to what many believe, the SRTs are not waiting for someone to yell or wave for help but rather are watching for the tell-tale signs of someone who needs assistance, often before that person even realizes it. To ensure that each SRT is performing a constant scan, they are required to stand when a Beach Patrol vehicle passes behind (including OCBP ATVs) them showing that they are alert to all 360 degrees of their area of responsibility. You may also notice that the SRT will stand if someone approaches to begin a conversation that lasts more than a quick question like what time is it or what street am I on (most common two questions). The SRT will also keep any conversation to no more than a few minutes.

By maintaining an alert scan, the SRT will be able to warn people away from potential danger (such as a rip current) before the person becomes a victim in need of a rescue and can follow-up by educating the same patrons about the safest places to swim on their beach. This is one of the main benefits of swimming on a guarded beach. This is also why we ask people to obey all the ordinances so that the SRT is not required to leave the stand to enforce something that the person was already aware of.

This kind of situational awareness is a core skill that our SRTs develop—and it often gives them a professional edge long after summer ends. In fact, many

law enforcement and public safety agencies actively seek out former Beach Patrol members because of this unique training and experience. If you’re interested in building these skills and making a real impact, consider registering for one of our upcoming August try-outs for positions on the Summer 2027 Patrol. Visit JoinBeachPatrol.com. Until then, help our SRTs keep the beach safe by following ordinances, staying alert, and:

“Keep your feet in the sand until the lifeguard’s in the stand!”

To find more information please visit the Discovery Network’s short story at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aa rebbRFZo0.

Chef Cropper earns national sustainability recogntion

(July 31, 2026) Phil Cropper, Worcester Technical High School instructor, received the national 2026 Green Award recognizing his commitment to teaching sustainability and the importance of agriculture when selecting products and designing menus. The award is sponsored by the National Pork Board and the Center for the Advancement of Foodservice Education.

At Worcester Technical High School, sustainability is not taught as a single lesson or unit; it is experienced as a living, interconnected system embedded across the culinary and pastry arts programs. Through a student-driven, real-world approach, Chef Cropper has developed fully integrated agricultural, culinary and entrepreneurial initiatives such as a student-managed community garden; a 2-plus-acre pollinator habitat and campus apiary; students leading a hands-on hydroponic education for over 400 elementary students; curating a farm-to-table culinary curriculum; and overseeing The Pines Café, a student-run school-based food enterprise.

Together, these components create a scalable and replicable model that transforms students from learners into producers, educators, entre-

preneurs, and environmental stewards. Cropper received a $1,000 prize from the National Pork Board and commemorative plaque. Additionally, he was presented with a complimentary registration to attend CAFÉ’s 2026 Leadership Conference held this summer in Chicago.

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. Raw Bar Happy Hour Monday through Thursday from 2-6 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

■ 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 & Re-

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

■ HOOKED

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

$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar

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

■ LONGBOARD CAFÉ

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

$$-$$$ | Full bar

Casual Dining … Refined. Open for lunch and dinner. A wide range of gourmet burgers, innovative tacos, salads and sandwiches to full dinner entrees featuring fresh local fish prepared in a variety of styles, beef, shellfish and pasta. All our sauces, salsas, dressings, etc. are meticulously house made. We use fresh local sources wherever possible and premium ingredients such as our chuck, brisket and short rib custom blended burgers. Closed Tuesday. Call for reservations.

■ MARLIN MOON RESTAURANT

3301 Atlantic Ave., in the Double Tree Hotel, Ocean City 410-289-1201, marlinmoonocmd.com

$$ | Full bar

Winner of the Maryland People's choice award, Marlin Moon continues to offer its famous, locally loved dishes and famous happy hour. Enjoy creatively crafted cocktails, fresh selections from the raw bar and luscious desserts. Happy Hour, every day, 3-6 p.m., featuring drink specials. Breakfast, 7:30-11:30 a.m.; Lite Fare, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.; Dinner, 4-10 p.m.; and Bar open noon to 11 p.m.

■ SEACRETS

49th Street, Ocean City 410-524-4900, www.seacrets.com

$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar

Open Sunday through Friday at 11 a.m., 10 a.m. on Saturdays, close at 2 a.m. Enjoy a tropical atmosphere and dine under the palms in our outdoor, kid friendly dining area or try a Seacrets Beachin' Cocktails in the Bay with live music every day open to close. The club is open every night in the summer. Try our famous jerk chicken with homemade honey mustard sauce, Pushcart Trio, a true Jamaican dish or a hearty wrap, sandwich or delicious burger. We have it all at Seacrets.

UPTOWN

■ 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

■ 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.

Weight loss group honors member

(July 31, 2026) TOPS Club, Inc. (Take Off Pounds Sensibly), the nonprofit weight-loss support organization, recently recognized Deborah Warrington of Willards, who lost 86.75 pounds, as the 2025 Maryland Queen. She was honored April 16-17, 2026, at the combined Delaware and Maryland recognition event at the Princess Royale Oceanfront in Ocean City.

“All of us in TOPS are immensely proud of our members’ weight-loss achievements,” said TOPS President Rick Danforth. “Through their TOPS membership, these individuals can honor their life-altering successes, other members, and those who have preceded them. By maintaining their allegiance to lifestyle modifications, a hallmark of TOPS’ winning formula, TOPS members apply the tools they’re provided and the backing of their peers to attain their weight loss goals.”

In-person or online weekly meetings are the heart of TOPS support. In-person meetings start with an optional weighin, after which members share challenges, successes, or goals. A brief program covering a variety of health and wellness topics follows and may conclude with awards and recognition for the week. Visitors can attend their first TOPS in-person meeting free of charge and are encouraged to try more than one chapter since they’re all a little different.

Warrington shared her success story on weight loss.

“The story of reaching my goal is a long one. I started with TOPS in 1991. The years flew by with success and backsliding. I have held many chapter positions over the years, including leader, co-leader, secretary, and weight recorder. My group has always been supportive. I know if I needed help, they were there,” Warrington said.

Warrington said in 2024 a doctor’s appointment made it clear she needed a change in her life.

“My A1C was 6.9, and the doctor said it was time for diabetic medica-

tions. This was not a shock, as diabetes runs in my family. I asked for some time, and that's when the switch flipped. I stopped eating bread, potatoes, rice, and pasta. I also reduced my sugar intake, only putting a little sugar in my coffee,” she said. “I treated those foods as if I were allergic to them. The focus was there, and I remembered the TOPS programs given

over the years. The scale soon began to reflect my hard work. I kept nuts and sugar-free snacks for the times I had cravings. I reached my goal on November 4, 2025, and my A1C is now 5.7. The battle is not over. A new chapter has begun as I will work to maintain my weight. I want to thank my TOPS 0331 Berlin chapter for always being there for me.”

by Steve Green

IThe Adventures of Fatherhood

(The following is a reprint from 2023.)

am not a teacher, but I have long thought about getting into education at some point in my life. I think my older son Beckett would be an outstanding teacher because I see a lot of the same traits in him that I remember from my favorite teachers and some memorable educators he and my son Carson have had through the years.

A good teacher’s impact can be felt for many years. I can still recall moments with teachers that had a profound impact on me. Some memories had to do with education lessons while most had to do with leadership and character.

For my son Beckett, 14, he has a handful of teachers he still refers to in random conversations. Most of his recollections have nothing to do with core school subjects. He remembers certain approaches they taught him or impactful casual conversations that served as life lessons.

For Carson, 13, due to his special needs, school is another matter altogether. Nonetheless, there have been about a dozen teachers whose names I can rattle off who have impacted him and Pam and I as his parents. The common trait among these quality individuals was empathy and how they showed it to our boy and us. The special needs journey is complicated, but it’s smoothed when we have a supportive education team that recognizes his strengths and understands his shortcomings.

While I have not taught, I am a coach. I have coached hundreds of local kids while raising my own boys. There have been memorable seasons with responsive and dedicated players as well as some forgettable ones with stubborn and unteachable types.

In recent years, Pam and I have assumed leadership roles in the TOPSoccer program at River Soccer

Club. TOPSoccer is a recreational sports program for those with intellectual, emotional and physical disabilities. We have been involved with the program for about 10 years, the last few leading the training on the field.

This program is near and dear to us. I have been thinking a lot lately about how we can do it better. This is not a league. It’s an hour session where we match up our players (who have a wide range of disabilities) with buddies (who are typically middle and high schoolers) and work through various drills.

Over the years, I have found pride in the connections made with the kids. I can typically bond with the players, even if it’s just for an hour on the fields. It has a major impact on me when a connection happens.

Over the last couple weeks, a new player has joined us with the most severe disabilities yet. Pam worked with him the first week, and there was a minor incident where she could have gotten hurt. I wanted to work with him last week. Despite best efforts, I just couldn’t get him to engage and stay on the field with me. He was struggling and I was sweating. It just wasn’t to be the first two weeks. We will try again, but the lack of success has been eating at me. With a few new tricks, I am ready to try again this weekend and have a positive impact on that family.

My wife Pam, who serves as a Court Appointed Special Advocate, recently attended a volunteer appreciation dinner for her tremendous contributions to our community. Included in a packet of things she came home with from the recognition event was a copy of the “The Starfish Story,” which was originally written by Loren Eiseley in 1969.

There are many adaptations of it on the web, but it speaks to the impact we can all have on others. It starts with one person. I feel like I missed the mark last week with that young soccer player, but it was not

without effort and good intentions. I imagine there are good days and bad days like this for teachers who face unique challenges today. It’s often difficult to know the impact we have on other people’s lives, but I fully believe there are rewards to be experienced when the will and effort are there.

Along those lines, here’s an adaptation to share of the Eiseley’s essay:

Once upon a time, there was an old man who used to go to the ocean to do his writing. He had a habit of walking on the beach every morning before he began his work. Early one morning, he was walking along the shore after a big storm had passed and found the vast beach littered with starfish as far as the eye could see, stretching in both directions.

Off in the distance, the old man noticed a small boy approaching. As the boy walked, he paused every so often and as he grew closer, the man could see that he was occasionally bending down to pick up an object and throw it into the sea. The boy came closer still and the man called out, “Good morning! May I ask what it is that you are doing?”

The young boy paused, looked up, and replied “Throwing starfish into the ocean. The tide has washed them up onto the beach and they can’t return to the sea by themselves,” the youth replied. “When the sun gets high, they will die, unless I throw them back into the water.”

The old man replied, “But there must be tens of thousands of starfish on this beach. I’m afraid you won’t really be able to make much of a difference.”

The boy bent down, picked up yet another starfish and threw it as far as he could into the ocean. Then he turned, smiled and said, “It made a difference to that one!”

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

By Dave Dalkiewicz Contributing Writer

(July 31, 2026) Last week’s column/article concentrated on swimming although paddling was alluded to.

Whenever one sees a video or film regarding surfing it’s a picture of a surfer riding a wave. But what action got the surfer to that point in the first place? Various motions have to be done such a “jump-up” or “pop-up.”

Position and timing are also very important. But an initial activity that needs to occur before anything else is paddling. The surfer needs to paddle to get out to the breaking waves, to get into position to catch a wave that will break and finally paddling is necessary to actually get into the breaking wave.

Paddling is, more or less, a forever part of surfing. When the surfer considers the amount of time he or she will actually spend riding a wave, the amount of time paddling will over shadow the riding of a wave by at least a thousand fold, if not more. A good surfer will generally be a strong paddler.

In typical surfing there’s not going to be a sail or gasoline or electric motor. The surfer is the “motor.” It takes a while to build the musculature to become a strong paddler but hopefully the potential excitement of catching some good waves will overcome the work that it takes to be that strong paddler.

Consider this aspect when choosing a surfboard to ride. Want to be a better surfer? Become a better paddler.

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

Driven Over Given event set to recognize female leaders

(July 31, 2026) Driven Over Given Inc.™ will honor six distinguished women whose leadership, service, resilience, stewardship, and community impact continue to build stronger futures throughout Maryland’s Eastern Shore during the 3rd Annual Driven Over Given Community Takeover & College, Workforce, and Resource Fair.

The U.N.B.R.E.A.K.A.B.L.E. Women in Leadership Awards Ceremony will begin promptly at 4 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 15, 2026, at Dr. William Edward Henry Park, 125 Flower Street, Berlin, Maryland 21811. Award recipients, presenters, families, community leaders, and members of the media are encouraged to gather near the main stage by 3:45 p.m. The ceremony is expected to conclude at approximately 4:30 p.m. with an official group photograph.

The ceremony will be a signature feature of a two-day community celebration offering free access to educational opportunities, employers, workforce development, supportive services, health and wellness resources, mentorship, community organizations, family activities, entertainment, and giveaways.

Dr. Shawn Harris, founder and CEO of Driven Over Given Inc.™, established the recognition to publicly celebrate women whose consistent leadership

and service have created meaningful opportunities for individuals, families, institutions, and communities.

“Strong communities do not happen by accident,” Harris said. “They are built by leaders who consistently show up, serve with integrity, overcome adversity, and create opportunities for the next generation. These women demonstrate that leadership is not defined by a title alone. Leadership is revealed through impact, sacrifice, courage, stewardship, resilience, and service.”

For Harris, a proud alumnus of Stephen Decatur High School, Class of 1992, his return to Berlin represents more than hosting an annual event. It reflects his commitment to reinvesting his experience, relationships, leadership, and resources into the community that helped shape his life.

Harris recently orchestrated the initiative and served as a driving force behind Wor-Wic Community College’s successful approval for membership in the National Junior College Athletic Association. The historic achievement will enable the institution to begin intercollegiate athletics in 2027 after 51 years of existence.

The following honorees will be recognized for professional excellence, See EVENT Page 71

vanishing vanishing OCEAN CITY

With Bunk Mann

With the White Marlin Open being held in Ocean City next week, it’s an opportune time to spotlight two organizations that have had a positive impact on sport fishing in this area – the Ocean City Marlin Club and the Ocean City Light Tackle Club, pictured above at the Dorchester Street dock circa 1955.

In 1938, there had been 781 white marlin reported caught offshore and in 1939 a total of 1,258 – with no record of any released. By the early 1950s, a “catch and release” program had been encouraged and all true sportsmen began conserving the marlin population for future generations.

To purchase one of Bunk Mann’s books, click over to www.vanishingoc.com. Photo courtesy of Josh “Skip” Bunting Jr.

open concept floor plan with massive entrance foyer. Great room high ceilings, recessed lighting, lots of windows, gleaming hardwood floors & natural gas fireplace. Bright & spacious kitchen has tiered center island granite counters. Dining room French doors open to back deck. 2 master/primary BRs, 1 on each floor, each have own ensuite BAs with ceiling heat lamps. Study with bay windows off foyer, sunporch off 1st floor master/primary BR, half bath, large laundry room off kitchen & closets throughout. Upstairs has family room, 3rd & 4th BRs,

Things I Like...

By Steve Green

Showing my kids photos they don’t remember

Randon beach run-ins

A steak hot off the grill for dinner

My teenager driving me anywhere

Pat McAfee’s way

Young parents talking about their babies

Good sportsmanship

Berlin’s mighty Little League

The first sunny day after a few bad ones

Volunteers partnering for a good cause

A pool dip after a beach day

Watch the White Marlin Open weigh-in station at Harbour Island from

for membership. Just minutes to Ocean City Beaches, Assateague & ‘Coolest Small

Event planned in Berlin in August

Continued from Page 69

public service, community impact, and leadership that reflects the values of the U.N.B.R.E.A.K.A.B.L.E. Leadership Model:

Dr. Kimberly W. Purvis, Dean of Student Success at Wor-Wic Community College, will receive the Unbreakable Leader in Education Award.

Monika L. Brittingham, Warden of Eastern Correctional Institution, will be honored with the Unbreakable Stewardship Award.

Shytina Drummond, the newly appointed Warden of the Worcester County Jail, will receive the Unbreakable Guardian of Service Award.

Dr. Roxie Dennis, pastor of Ambassadors for Christ International Ministries and Worcester County CommissionerElect for District 2, will be presented with the Community Unsung Hero Award.

Laurie Anne Brittingham, an education professional with Worcester County Public Schools and DelegateElect for Maryland House of Delegates District 38C, will receive the Unbreakable Civic Leadership Award.

Rev. Peggy Briggs, pastor of St. Paul United Methodist Church in Berlin, will be honored with the Unbreakable Spirit Award for her dedication and service to the community.

The Weekend Takeover Programming kicks off on Saturday, Aug. 15 from 1 to 6 p.m. at Dr. William Edward Henry Park, located at 125 Flower Street in Berlin. The day's theme, Access & Opportunity, will connect attendees with college, training, scholarship, and financial aid resources, as well as local employers, apprenticeship opportunities, career pathways, and recruiters. Participants will also have access to housing assistance, supportive services, and health and wellness providers. Community organizations will be on hand to offer youth programs, mentorship opportunities, activities, and giveaways. The day will conclude with the Women in Leadership Awards Ceremony beginning at 4 p.m.

The event continues on Sunday, Aug. 16, from 1 to 5 p.m. at Stephen Decatur Park. The second day, themed Mind, Body & Community, will feature a beginner-level Xtreme Hip Hop Step class led by certified coaches, along with yoga, mindfulness sessions, fitness activities, health screenings, and nutrition education. Families can also enjoy community resources, games, music, entertainment, and giveaways. The event is free and open to participants of all ages and fitness levels and celebrates National Wellness Month by promoting healthy living and community engagement.

“Day Two represents our commitment to strengthening the whole person — mind, body, and community,” Harris said. “We want families to have access not only to education, employment, and supportive services, but also to positive experiences that promote wellness, confidence, connection, and joy.”

New SU Board members

From notable alumni to community partners, more than a dozen dynamic leaders from Maryland and beyond have been announced as the first members of Salisbury University’s newly revived board of visitors.

“These individuals represent some of the most innovative and transformative in their fields,” said SU President Carolyn Ringer Lepre. “Through their dedication, they not only have become corporate and community leaders, but also serve as role models to our current students and, in many cases, demonstrate the good that can be accomplished with an SU degree. We are honored by their commitment to our University and their desire to help launch this historic initiative.”

Much like their predecessors on SU’s original board of visitors, from 1969-1988, these new board members will serve as advisors to the University from both the private and public sectors. They also will act as ambassadors for SU in the greater community. They include:

Janeen Birckhead, adjutant general of Maryland, Maryland National Guard

Todd Burbage ’95, chief executive officer, Blue Water Development

Pete Buzy ’84, retired director and former president, Paragon Gene Therapy, Catalent, Inc.

Natalie Davis ’05, chief executive officer and co-founder, United States of Care

Jake Day, secretary, Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development

Mike Dunn ’84, president and chief executive officer, Greater Salisbury Committee

Dalencia Jenkins ’21, meteorologist, WBAL-TV 11 Baltimore

Anne Klase ’11, senior manager, state government affairs, Pepco Holdings and Delmarva Power

Dr. Steve Leonard M’07, president and chief executive officer, TidalHealth

Erica Messer ’95, executive producer, showrunner, and writer, Paramount+ — Criminal Minds

David Pierce, Wallops Flight Facility director, NASA Goddard Space Flight Center

Chrissy Schifkovitz ’08, senior director, development and corporate partnerships, The Maryland Zoo

Colin Sweetin ’17, corporate affairs director, Erickson Senior Living

Patrick Wynn ’83, partner, LBK Partners, LLC

Credential earned

Hudson Behavioral Health announced Susan Forrest, Clinical Director of Outpatient Services, has earned her LCSW-C. This is the highest level

of social work credential in Maryland, authorizing professionals to independently diagnose and treat mental health conditions.

Earning this credential requires the completion of a master's degree in social work, thousands of hours of supervised clinical experience, and the successful passage of rigorous state licensing examinations. This achievement represents years of dedication and study.

As Clinical Director of Outpatient Services, Susan oversees the daily operations of Hudson's Outpatient Mental Health Center. She provides clinical oversight for staff, along with

CROSSWORD

supervision for Associate, Bachelor, and Master level intern students, a role in which her new LCSW-C credential will further strengthen her ability to guide the next generation of social workers entering the field.

Susan joined Hudson Behavioral Health in 2023 as Director of Clinical Operations and brings more than a decade of experience working to improve recovery resources in the greater Salisbury area. She earned both her Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) and Master of Social Work (MSW) from Salisbury University.

"We could not be prouder of Susan," said Leslie Brown, CEO of

HOROSCOPE

ARIES – Mar 21/Apr 20

Aries, your bold approach is magnetic right now. If you have a big idea that you’ve been waiting to share, present it now. Everyone is ready to listen.

TAURUS – Apr 21/May 21

Think about how you can treat someone else to something nice, whether it is a gift, time spent with you or whatever it is that they desire. Build the foundation for a stronger friendship.

GEMINI – May 22/Jun 21

This week is all about clearing out the old to make room for the new, Gemini. Begin decluttering your physical space and then move on to clearing out your mind.

CANCER – Jun 22/Jul 22

Cancer, your social circle is a great asset this week. Reach out to a friend you haven’t spoken to in a while. You might find the conversation sparks a great new collaborative idea.

LEO – Jul 23/Aug 23

Leo, your hard work is finally getting the recognition it deserves. Don’t be afraid to accept any praise that comes your way. You will inspire others with your natural leadership and confidence.

VIRGO – Aug 24/Sept 22

Virgo, whether it is picking up a new hobby or diving into a book you have been meaning to read, you are craving knowledge this week. Your mind is hungry for growth, so feed it.

LIBRA – Sept 23/Oct 23

Right now you are able to resolve lingering tensions with ease, Libra. Lean into your diplomatic nature; you have the power to turn a complicated situation into a win-win for everyone.

SCORPIO – Oct 24/Nov 22

The connections you nurture this week will prove incredibly lucky for you, Scorpio. You will come across as deeply authentic, which can draw people to you like a magnet.

SAGITTARIUS – Nov 23/Dec 21

Getting details handled early on will clear the path for a much more open week as the weekend approaches, Sagittarius. Take to the task at hand now and reap the rewards later.

CAPRICORN – Dec 22/Jan 20

Your creativity is off the charts right now, Capricorn. You might find that you are better positioned to problemsolve when you’re doing things unrelated to the task at hand.

AQUARIUS – Jan 21/Feb 18

It is a wonderful time to redecorate the garden or spend quality time with family, Aquarius. Nurturing yourself will give you the stamina to tackle the world outside of your home.

PISCES – Feb 19/Mar 20

Pisces, people are generally interested in what you have to say this week, so be sure to speak up. Your message may inspire others.

BUSINESS BRIEFS

Hudson Behavioral Health. "Earning licensure at this level takes tremendous commitment, and this accomplishment speaks to the caliber of people we have on our team. Her dedication to growing as a professional translates directly into better care and stronger outcomes for the people we serve, and that's what our mission is all about."

Firm will be featured

Davis, Bowen & Friedel, Inc. (DBF), a full-service architecture, engineering, planning, surveying, and environmental consulting firm serving the Mid-Atlantic region, has been selected for a featured segment on The American Dream, a nationally televised series airing on Bloomberg Television and CNBC, with additional streaming distribution on Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, and other major platforms. The segment will highlight DBF's re-

markable journey from a small engineering practice founded in a one-room office in downtown Salisbury, Maryland, in 1983, to one of the Delmarva Peninsula's most comprehensive professional consulting firms. Today, DBF employs more than 100 professionals across four offices and has provided services to nearly 4,000 public- and private-sector clients throughout Maryland, Delaware, Virginia, and beyond.

"This is an incredible opportunity to share the story of our firm, our people, and the communities we serve," said Ring W. Lardner, P.E., President of Davis, Bowen & Friedel. "For more than four decades, our success has been built on strong relationships, technical excellence, and a commitment to improving the places where people live, work, and play. We are honored that The American Dream recognized our story as one worth telling on a national stage."

The American Dream is a nationally

recognized television series that highlights businesses, organizations, and individuals making a meaningful impact in their communities. The program focuses on authentic stories of entrepreneurship, innovation, and community leadership that embody the spirit of the American Dream.

According to the show's production team, DBF was selected because of its unique founding story, long-standing commitment to the Delmarva region, and significant contributions to the built environment over the past 40 years.

The segment will also showcase one of DBF's defining strengths: the ability to provide a broad range of services under one roof. The firm's multidisciplinary team includes architects, engineers, surveyors, planners, environmental scientists, GIS specialists, and construction professionals who collaborate to deliver comprehensive solutions for clients throughout the region.

FIRST FRIDAY IN OCEAN CITY

Blackberry barbequed chicken lollipops

By Deborah Lee Walker Contributing Writer

How often do we serve barbequed chicken? This American tradition evolved from Caribbean and Southern pit traditions and has continued to become a favorite style of preparation among home cooks and culinary competitions.

Barbeque sauces and styles are numerous, and the possibilities are endless. So how does one stand out? What makes their sauce exceptional? And how can your presentation go beyond predictability?

The concept of singularity seems simple but in actuality it may be more complex than one thinks. The key to success is the details.

The chemistry of barbeque sauce relies on a careful balance of acidity, sweetness, and thickeners. Each one has their specific purpose and together forms a lip-smacking topper that excites the palette and has the senses drooling for more. The trinity of sweet, salty, and spicy is classic and hard to beat. That brings us to the subject of Frenching chicken legs or more commonly known as making chicken lol-

lipops.

Frenching a chicken leg means the cutting and scraping the meat, skin, and tendons away from the bottom bone to make it clean and neat. You will need a sharp paring knife and kitchen scissors.

Using your paring knife, slice all the way around the narrow end of the drumstick to cut through the skin and meat down to the bone.

Place a paper towel on the main part of the chicken leg, push the bulk of the chicken away from the base of the knuckle bone.

Snip away any connective tissue and hanging tendons. Make sure you pull out the thin splinter-like bone if it runs alongside of the main bone.

Cut off the small upper knuckle and scrape the exposed bone so it looks white and neat. If you have never done this before, you might want to watch a video of this process. Once you do it, it is easy, and makes for a much nicer and refined way of presenting chicken legs. It is proper to pick up barbequed chicken legs with your fingers. Chicken lollipops are fun and even more finger friendly which is always a good thing.

Company is coming and barbeque is on the menu, consider blackberry barbequed chicken lollipops. “Wow” will

be the theme with every bite. Enjoy! Blackberry Barbeque Sauce

3 cups fresh blackberries

5 chipotle peppers from a can of Chipotle peppers in Adobe sauce

1/3 cup chopped yellow onion

½ cup apple cider vinegar

½ cup packed dark brown sugar

1/3 cup molasses

¾ cup ketchup

2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce

1 tablespoon Chinese hot oil

1 tablespoon liquid smoke

1 teaspoon dry mustard

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

kosher salt and ground pepper to taste

1. Combine all of the ingredients in a food processor and blend until smooth.

2. Simmer the ingredients until it thickens.

3. Strain through a metal sieve. Grilling

1. Spray the grill racks with cooking spray.

2. Heat grill to medium-high.

3. Grill the chicken legs until they are two-thirds done.

4. Using a pastry brush, apply a heavy coat of blackberry barbeque sauce to both sides of the chicken legs. Make sure the entire leg is coated with sauce.

5. Allow chicken to get a good sear on both sides.

6. Just before serving, apply one more coat of blackberry barbeque sauce to both sides.

7. Add a light dusting of kosher salt, freshly ground black pepper, and a few fresh blackberries as a garnish.

Secret Ingredient – Diversity

A garden’s beauty never lies in one flower.

Matshona Dhliwayo

Calendar

Submit calendar items to: editor@octodaydispatch.com. Submission deadline is 5 p.m. Monday, the week of publication. Local submissions have priority. Area event listings are subject to space availability.

Fri., July 31

2026 PRO FOOTVOLLEY TOUR

Ocean City Beach at N. Division St., 1 N. Division St., 12-9 p.m. Six nations compete in the 2026 Nations Cup. Featuring elite competition, free youth clinics, and All-Star exhibitions. Free for spectators. Schedule: https://footvolley.net. 305-213-3275.

BEACH TENNIS MARYLAND4TH MARYLAND CHAMPIONSHIP SERIES OPEN 2026

Park Place Hotel, 208 Baltimore Ave., Ocean City, 8 a.m.-10 p.m. ITF BT50 Qualifying. Selected live streaming: youtube.com/c/IDoLivestreaming. 410708-4261, cmacleod@mlg-lawyers.com

4TH ANNUAL MARLINS FOR MASON TOURNAMENT

Ocean City Marlin Club Inc, 9659 Golf Course Road, 8 a.m.-3 p.m. and at Sunset Marina. Benefiting Mason Prather and others who suffer with Dravet Syndrome. Schedule and tournament details: https://marlinsformason.com/tournament-details/.

THE BOY WHO LIVED BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION

Worcester County Library - Pocomoke Branch, 401 Fifth St., 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Drop in to celebrate Harry Potter’s birthday with magical crafts, games and wizarding fun. For families. 410-9570878, 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

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, HARRY POTTER!

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 1-4 p.m. Join in for a spellbinding adventure with crafts and fun games all afternoon. Light refreshments served. For families. 410208-4014, worcesterlibrary.org

Sat., Aug. 1

2026 PRO FOOTVOLLEY TOUR

Ocean City Beach at N. Division St., 6-9 p.m. Six nations compete in the 2026 Nations Cup. Featuring elite competition, free youth clinics, and All-Star exhibitions. Free for spectators. Schedule:

https://footvolley.net. 305-213-3275.

PEACH FESTIVAL

Calvin B. Taylor House, 208 N. Main St., Berlin, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Peaches for sale, pie baking contest, live cooking demos, children’s activities, pie eating contests, bands and food. www.taylorhousemuseum.org

BEACH TENNIS MARYLAND4TH MARYLAND CHAMPIONSHIP SERIES

OPEN 2026

Park Place Hotel, 208 Baltimore Ave., Ocean City, 8 a.m.-10 p.m. ITF BT50 Main Draw. Selected live streaming: youtube.com/c/IDoLivestreaming. 410708-4261, cmacleod@mlg-lawyers.com

4TH ANNUAL MARLINS FOR MASON TOURNAMENT

Ocean City Marlin Club Inc, 9659 Golf Course Road, 8 a.m.-3 p.m. and at Sunset Marina. Benefiting Mason Prather and others who suffer with Dravet Syndrome. Schedule and tournament details: https://marlinsformason.com/tournament-details/.

48TH ANNUAL ARTISAN CRAFT FAIR

Ocean Pines Community Center, 235 Ocean Parkway, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. and White Horse Park. Featuring more than 60 crafters, face painting, playground, food, snacks and bake sale. Stop by the Ocean Pines Pine’eer Craft Club.

26TH BLESSING OF THE COMBINES 2026

Downtown Snow Hill, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. The parade begins at 11 a.m. Also featuring car show, vendors, crafters, children’s activities, live entertainment and food. blesscombines@gmail.com, 443783-1715, blessingofthecombines.org

GREAT POCOMOKE FAIR

Great Pocomoke Fair, 2037 Broad St., Pocomoke City, 9:30 a.m. Exhibits, live stock, harness racing, motorsports, food competitions, Duck & Goose Calling Championships, dog show, tractor pull, various competitions and more. Schedule: www.thegreatpocomokefair.org.

MARYLAND CRAB CAKE/PEACH FESTIVAL

Stevenson United Methodist Church, 123 N. Main St., Berlin, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Crab Cake Sandwich, $10; Homemade Peach Cobbler, $5; Peach Tea, $2. Held in front of the church during the Peach Festival.

SUMMER CHURCH SERIES

First Presbyterian Church of Ocean City, 1301 Philadelphia Ave., 10 a.m. Ocean City’s own Sligo by the Sea celebrates its

63rd summer offering worship services, with Dr. Kermit Nettebuirg. Bible study at 10 a.m., church worship at 11 a.m. Music by Larry Karpenko.

CRAFTY SATURDAY: SUMMER TIME

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 10 a.m. Join in for summer-themed crafts. For families. 410-208-4014, worcesterlibrary.org

ROPENASTICS - ROPE JUMPING IN A NEW DIMENSION

Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 10 a.m. Guinness World Record Holder, David Fisher, The Rope Warrior brings his visually entertaining and interactive jump rope show right to the library. For families. 410-524-1818

FREE KIDS CRAFT SATURDAYS

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

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. 410-641-7052, https://www.oceanpines.org/web/pages /farmers-artisans-market

Sun., Aug. 2

2026 PRO FOOTVOLLEY TOUR

Ocean City Beach at N. Division St., 6-9 p.m. Six nations compete in the 2026 Nations Cup. Featuring elite competition, free youth clinics, and All-Star exhibitions. Free for spectators. Schedule: https://footvolley.net. 305-213-3275.

BEACH TENNIS MARYLAND4TH MARYLAND CHAMPIONSHIP SERIES OPEN 2026

Park Place Hotel, 208 Baltimore Ave., Ocean City, 8 a.m.-10 p.m. ITF BT50 Finals and 1st Junior J100. Selected live streaming: youtube.com/c/IDoLivestreaming. 410708-4261, cmacleod@mlg-lawyers.com

GREAT POCOMOKE FAIR

Great Pocomoke Fair, 2037 Broad St., Pocomoke City, 9:30 a.m. Exhibits, live stock, harness racing, motorsports, food competitions, Duck & Goose Calling Championships, dog show, tractor pull, various competitions and more. Schedule: www.thegreatpocomokefair.org.

SUNDAES IN THE PARK WITH FIREWORKS Northside Park, 200 125th St., Ocean City, 7-9 p.m. Featuring “Radio Hero:

Party Rock Band.” Ice cream for purchase. Followed by fireworks. https://www.ococean.com/things-todo/free-family-fun/sundaes-in-the-park/

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. 410-641-0234

JEHOVAH’S WITNESSES MEETING

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

Mon., Aug. 3

53RD ANNUAL WHITE MARLIN OPEN

Harbor Island Marina, 419 14th St., Ocean City. The World’s Largest Billfish Tournament with over a million dollars in prizes. Open to all anglers. Weigh-ins are held daily from 4-9:15 p.m. Visit the White Marlin Open Store. whitemarlinopen.com

MARLIN FEST

Ocean City Inlet Beach, 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Live music, food, drinks, vendors, live stream of White Marlin Weigh-Ins, and White Marlin Open and Marlin Fest merchandise. No pets allowed. https://marlinfest.com

OCEAN CITY TOURISM POP UP AT MARLIN FEST

Marlin Fest, 809 S. Atlantic Ave., Ocean City, 1-4 p.m. Stop by to grab a photo in front of OC photo ops, win smile swag and more. Be sure to download the app to play games and win swag at the pop up.

BEACH TENNIS MARYLAND4TH MARYLAND CHAMPIONSHIP SERIES OPEN 2026

Park Place Hotel, 208 Baltimore Ave., Ocean City, 8 a.m.-10 p.m. 2nd ITF BT50 Main Draw. Selected live streaming: youtube.com/c/IDoLivestreaming. 410-708-4261, cmacleod@mlglawyers.com

GREAT POCOMOKE FAIR

Great Pocomoke Fair, 2037 Broad St., Pocomoke City, 5 p.m. Exhibits, live stock, harness racing, motorsports, food competitions, Duck & Goose Calling Championships, dog show, tractor pull, various competitions and more. Schedule: www.thegreatpocomokefair.org.

STORY TIME: PIRATES

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

CALENDAR

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

CAREGIVER SUPPORT GROUP

TidalHealth John H. “Jack” Burbage, Jr. Cancer Center, 9707 Healthway Drive, Berlin, 3-4 p.m. Held the first Monday of each month. 410-641-2626, nicole.fry@tidalhealth.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, 410641-6876 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., Aug. 4

53RD ANNUAL WHITE MARLIN OPEN Harbor Island Marina, 419 14th St., Ocean City. The World’s Largest Billfish Tournament with over a million dollars in prizes. Open to all anglers. Weigh-ins are held daily from 4-9:15 p.m. Visit the White Marlin Open Store. whitemarlinopen.com

MARLIN FEST

Ocean City Inlet Beach, 11 a.m.-9 p.m.

Live music, food, drinks, vendors, live stream of White Marlin Weigh-Ins, and White Marlin Open and Marlin Fest merchandise. No pets allowed. https://marlinfest.com

NATIONAL NIGHT OUT

White Horse Park, Ocean Pines, 5-7 p.m. Featuring free food, family fun, games provided by OPA Rec. Dept. Sponsored by the Ocean Pines Police Department, 410-641-7747.

GREAT POCOMOKE FAIR

Great Pocomoke Fair, 2037 Broad St., Pocomoke City, 5 p.m. Exhibits, live stock, harness racing, motorsports, food

competitions, Duck & Goose Calling Championships, dog show, tractor pull, various competitions and more. Schedule: www.thegreatpocomokefair.org.

BEACH TENNIS MARYLAND4TH MARYLAND CHAMPIONSHIP SERIES OPEN 2026

Park Place Hotel, 208 Baltimore Ave., Ocean City, 8 a.m.-10 p.m. 2nd ITF BT50 Finals and 2nd Junior J100. Selected live streaming: youtube.com/c/IDoLivestreaming. 410708-4261, cmacleod@mlg-lawyers.com

FAITH-BASED PARTNERSHIP

Meets the first Tuesday of each month, 10-11 a.m. Please register to learn about this month’s meeting location: 410-6419725, gail.mansell@tidalhealth.org.

DINO ACADEMY: A DINOSAUR DISCOVERY SHOW

Sturgis Park Garden, 200 River St., Snow Hill, 10:30 a.m. Featuring life-like, colorful dinosaur puppets, the show blends science, storytelling and imagination in the style of your favorite nature programs. For families. 410-632-5622, worcesterlibrary.org

STORY YOGA

Worcester County Library - Pocomoke Branch, 401 Fifth St., 10:30 a.m. Move, stretch and imagine through a playful blend of stories and yoga. For ages 2-5 years. 410-957-0878, worcesterlibrary.org

OC KNITTING GROUP

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

STORY TIME

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

MOMMY/DADDY & ME CRAFT TIME

Ocean Pines Community Center, 235 Ocean Parkway, 11 a.m.-noon. Featuring a short story and craft. Parents may need to assist child with crafts. All materials provided. Cost is $4. Pre-registration required: 410-641-7052, www.oceanpines.org.

ANGELS IN OILSKINS - A LIVING HISTORY EXPERIENCE

Ocean City Life-Saving Museum, 813 S. Atlantic Ave., 11 a.m.-5 p.m. A special curated tour of the museum, highlighting the nation’s earliest form of marine rescue. Outside the museum enjoy interactive demonstrations, hands-on activities and live music. 410-289-4991

MASTER GARDENERS PLANT CLINIC

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 1-4 p.m. Continued on Page 78

Bring any questions you have and feel free to show your plants as well. 410208-4014, worcesterlibrary.org

RECENT ARCHAEOLOGICAL DISCOVERIES ON THE EASTERN SHORE

Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 2 p.m. Archaeological sites related to Eastern Shore Tribes, Harriet Tubman and her family, and 18th century occupations will be discussed. 410-524-1818, worcesterlibrary.org

DINO ACADEMY: A DINOSAUR DISCOVER SHOW

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 2 p.m. Featuring life-like, colorful dinosaur puppets, this show blends science, storytelling and imagination in the style of your favorite nature programs. For families. 410-208-4014, worcesterlibrary.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/.

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.

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., Aug. 5

53RD ANNUAL WHITE MARLIN OPEN

Harbor Island Marina, 419 14th St., Ocean City. The World’s Largest Billfish Tournament with over a million dollars in prizes. Open to all anglers. Weigh-ins are held daily from 4-9:15 p.m. Visit the White Marlin Open Store. whitemarlinopen.com

MARLIN FEST

Ocean City Inlet Beach, 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Live music, food, drinks, vendors, live stream of White Marlin Weigh-Ins, and White Marlin Open and Marlin Fest merchandise. No pets allowed. https://marlinfest.com

BEACH TENNIS MARYLAND4TH MARYLAND CHAMPIONSHIP SERIES OPEN 2026

Park Place Hotel, 208 Baltimore Ave., Ocean City, 8 a.m.-10 p.m. ITF BT200

Qualifying and Mixed ITF BT200. Selected live streaming: youtube.com/c/IDoLivestreaming. 410708-4261, cmacleod@mlg-lawyers.com

MOVIES ON THE BEACH

Carousel Oceanfront Hotel & Condos, 11700 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, 8:30 p.m. Featured movie is “Zootopia 2.” 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

PAINT & SIP

Ocean Pines Community Center, 235 Ocean Parkway, 6-8 p.m. Cost is $27 and includes wine and crackers. Must be at least 18 years of age. Register: 410641-7052.

GREAT POCOMOKE FAIR

Great Pocomoke Fair, 2037 Broad St., Pocomoke City, 5 p.m. Exhibits, live stock, harness racing, motorsports, food competitions, Duck & Goose Calling Championships, dog show, tractor pull, various competitions and more. Schedule: www.thegreatpocomokefair.org.

DINO ACADEMY: A DINOSAUR DISCOVERY SHOW

Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 10:30 a.m. Featuring life-like, colorful dinosaur puppets, this show blends science, storytelling and imagination in the style of your favorite nature programs. For families. 410-524-1818, worcesterlibrary.org

PUZZLE SWAP

Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 1-7 p.m. Bring your gently used puzzles and leave with

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

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., Aug. 6

53RD ANNUAL WHITE MARLIN OPEN

Harbor Island Marina, 419 14th St., Ocean City. The World’s Largest Billfish Tournament with over a million dollars in prizes. Open to all anglers. Weigh-ins are held daily from 4-9:15 p.m. Visit the White Marlin Open Store. whitemarlinopen.com

MARLIN FEST

Ocean City Inlet Beach, 11 a.m.-9 p.m.

Live music, food, drinks, vendors, live stream of White Marlin Weigh-Ins, and White Marlin Open and Marlin Fest merchandise. No pets allowed. https://marlinfest.com

SUNSET PARK CONCERTS

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

BEACH TENNIS MARYLAND4TH MARYLAND CHAMPIONSHIP SERIES OPEN 2026

Park Place Hotel, 208 Baltimore Ave., Ocean City, 8 a.m.-10 p.m. ITF BT200 Qualifying Finals + Main Draw and Mixed ITF BT200. Selected live streaming: youtube.com/c/IDoLivestreaming. 410-708-4261, cmacleod@mlglawyers.com

OCEAN PINES CONCERTS IN THE PARK

White Horse Park Pavilion, Ocean Pine, 7-9 p.m. Free community event featuring “Jada Lee.” Food for sale. BYOB welcome. 410-641-7052

GREAT POCOMOKE FAIR

Great Pocomoke Fair, 2037 Broad St., Pocomoke City, 5 p.m. Exhibits, live stock, harness racing, motorsports, food competitions, Duck & Goose Calling

Championships, dog show, tractor pull, various competitions and more. Schedule: www.thegreatpocomokefair.org.

SUPERHERO STORY TIME

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 10:30 a.m. Celebrate your favorite superheroes. Join in for crafts and games. For ages 0-5 years. 410-208-4014, worcesterlibrary.org

DINO ACADEMY: A DINOSAUR DISCOVERY SHOW

Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 10:30 a.m. Featuring life-like, colorful dinosaur puppets, this show blends science, storytelling and imagination in the style of your favorite nature programs. For families. 410-641-0650, worcesterlibrary.org

OC CHESS CLUB

Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 10:30 a.m. Enjoy a relaxing game of chess every month at the library. 410-5241818, worcesterlibrary.org

PLAY TIME

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

DINO ACADEMY: A DINOSAUR DISCOVERY SHOW

Worcester County Library - Pocomoke Branch, 401 Fifth St., 2 p.m. Featuring life-like, colorful dinosaur puppets, this show blends science, storytelling and imagination in the style of your favorite nature programs. For families. 410-9570878, worcesterlibrary.org

FAMILY GAME DAY

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 2:30 p.m. Drop in to play games. From Mario to Monopoly, you’re sure to have fun. For families. 410-208-4014, 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

Crossword answers from page 72

CLERICAL

Clerical positon performing both Judiciary Clerk (criminal case processing) and Courtroom Clerk duties.

Salary: $57,108. Circuit Court, Snow Hill, MD. http://www.mdcourts.gov/ careers

CLERICAL

Clerical position responsible for recordation, licensing, and cashiering duties. Salary starting at $57,108. Circuit Court, Snow Hill, MD. To apply: http://www.mdcourts.gov/ careers

NOW HIRING

COOK Great Pay!!

Call 410-726-7061 Or Apply Within at 56th Street, Bayside

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

PROPERTY MANAGER

Century I Condominium Association, Ocean City, MD. Experienced in facility or property management, Quickbooks knowledgeable, enjoys working with the public, good supervisory skills. Full time, year-round. Send CV to centurycondo24812@ gmail.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.

Storefront Travel Agency Administrative Assistant 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

SEASONAL RENTAL

1BR/1BA 120th Street, OC Mini fridge, microwave, indoor/outdoor pools. 10 minute walk to beach. 717-261-1692

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

GARAGE/CONTRACTOR SHOP

24 X 24 $400/MONTH. Call Steve, leave message, 410-251-3412

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

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

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

OFFICE SPACE FOR RENT

Looking for space, comfort and great views? Spacious, climatecontrolled office available, with use of conference room and reception area, in a modern, wellmaintained building in prime Ocean City location. Call 410-524-3440 for appointment.

ROOMMATES

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.

HOUSESHARE IN BERLIN $600 per month, Util’s & Cable Incl. Nonsmoker, no pets. 443-513-0190

REAL ESTATE

Looking To Buy A Home Or Condo in Ocean City or near Delaware beaches. Please call/text/Email 410-570-9150, arewhyan2@yahoo.com. Thanks Ryan

75 ACRE FARM, BERLIN, MD 30 acres are cleared. $1,291,692.00

Serious Inquiries Only. Text 443-926-1393

Dallas Harrington

NETWORK SERVICES

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

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.

SERVICES

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

2 Female Purebred Chihuahua Puppies For Sale near Ocean City. 1 black and white, 1 solid chocolate. Ready Aug. 15th. 301-742-8771

FOR SALE

For Sale Motorcycle

Ramp/Hitch. Black Widow trailer hitch, brand new. Holds up to 600 lbs., paid $300, asking $250. Please call Mike, 571-436-9474.

River Run Community Yard Sale Saturday, August 8th 7am-11am. (rain/shine) Rt. 589 (Racetrack Rd.) to Beauchamp Rd., for 0.8 mile. River Run Community is on the left. LARGE

CLASSIFIED AD NETWORK

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

JAMES E. CLUBB, JR., ESQ. 108 N. 8th Street

Ocean City, Maryland 21842

TRUSTEE'S SALE

OF TIME-SHARE INTERVALS IN THE OCEAN TIME CONDOMINIUM

OCEAN CITY, MARYLAND

By virtue of a Claim of Lien recorded among the Land Records of Worcester County, Maryland, and pursuant to the Order of the Circuit Court for Worcester County, Maryland, Case No. C-23-CV-26-000152, the undersigned Trustee will offer for sale at public auction at the Ocean Time Condominium building located at 13 136th Street, Ocean City, MD 21842, the following described property located in the Town of Ocean City, in the Tenth Election District of Worcester County, Maryland, on

FRIDAY, AUGUST 7, 2026 AT 9:00A.M.

land, time being of the essence; otherwise, the deposit will be forfeited and the property will be resold at the risk and expense of the defaulting purchaser, or in any manner designated by the Trustee; or, without forfeiting deposit, the Seller may exercise any of its legal or equitable rights against the defaulting purchaser.

For more information, call: James E. Clubb, Jr., Esq. Trustee 410-289-2323

OCD-7/23/3t

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.

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 accepted.

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

WILLIAMS MOORE, L.L.P. REGAN J. R. SMITH ESQ. 12800 HOSPITALITY WAY OCEAN CITY, MD 21842-9394

NOTICE

TO

CREDITORS

OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE ESTATE NO. 21177

NOTICE IS GIVEN that the Circuit court of City of Alexandria county, Virginia appointed Howard Paperner, 11007 Martin Grove Ln., Saint Louis, MO 63141-7666 as the Personal Representative of the Estate of Leslie J. Paperner who died on May 09, 2021 domiciled in Virginia, USA.

The name and address of the Maryland resident agent for service of process is Regan J.R. Smith, 12800 Hospitality Way, Ocean City, MD 21842-9394.

Estate No. 21127 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF KEVIN HARPER

Notice is given that Christopher T. Woodley, Esq., 12800 Hospitality Way, Ocean City, MD 21842-9394, was on June 30, 2026 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Kevin Harper who died on April 16, 2020, without a will.

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

All interested persons or unpaid claimants having any objection to the appointment of the personal representative shall file their objection with the Register of Wills on or before the 30th day of 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 30th 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

Each time interval being one week per year of the corresponding unit, each unit being part of the Ocean Time Condominium as established pursuant to a Condominium Declaration and By-Laws recorded among the Land Records of Worcester County, Maryland, and subsequent Time-Share Instruments as to each condominium unit, and recorded among the aforesaid Land Records.

The property will be sold in an as is condition and subject to conditions, restrictions and agreements of record affecting the same, if any, and with no warranties or guarantees. A secured party may bid and shall be excused from deposit requirements. The Trustee reserves the right to reject any and all bids.

Terms of Sale: A deposit in the full amount of sale plus closing costs per time interval will be required at the time of sale, such deposit to be in cash or check. Cost of all recordation and transfer taxes, and all other incidental settlement costs shall be borne by the purchaser. The date of settlement shall be fifteen (15) days after final ratification by the Circuit Court for Worcester County, Mary-

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:

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.

Howard Paperner

Foreign Personal Representative Terri Westcott Register of Wills

One W. Market Street Room 102 - Court House Snow Hill, MD 21863-1074

Name of Newspaper: Ocean City Digest

Date of first publication: July 16, 2026

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CHRISTOPHER T. WOODLEY, ESQ.

WILLIAMS MOORE, L.L.P. 12800 HOSPITALITY WAY OCEAN CITY, MD 21842-9349

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

(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.

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

Name of newspaper designated by personal representative: Ocean City Digest

Date of publication: July 16, 2026

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COATES, COATES, & COATES, P.A.

RAYMOND D. COATES JR., ESQ. 6200 COASTAL HIGHWAY, SUITE 300 OCEAN CITY, MD 21842

NOTICE

TO CREDITORS OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE ESTATE NO. 21179

NOTICE IS GIVEN that the Surrogate’s court of Westchester county, New York appointed Dora Ryan, 80 Brandt Ter., Yonkers, NY 107103403 as the Executrix of the Estate of Rose Rampa who died on November 05, 2025 domiciled in New York, USA.

The name and address of the

Maryland resident agent for service of process is Raymond D. Coates Jr., 6200 Coastal Hwy., Ste. 300, Ocean City, MD 21842-6698.

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.

Dora

Ryan Foreign Personal Representative Terri Westcott Register of Wills One W. Market Street Room 102 - Court House Snow Hill, MD 21863-1074

Name of Newspaper: Ocean City Digest

Date of first publication: July 16, 2026

OCD-7/16/3t

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.

OCD-7/9/4t

RICHARD M. DUVALL, ESQ. DUVALL & DUVALL, LLP 112 W. MAIN ST. SALISBURY, MD 21801-4905

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 21181 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF JOYCE D. CLARK

AKA: JOYCE DOROTHEA CLARK

Notice is given that Daniel Hirko, 9 Deerfield Dr., Wading River, NY 11792-2200, was on July 09, 2026 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Joyce D. Clark who died on May 25, 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 9th 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 9th 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.

Daniel Hirko 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 16, 2026

OCD-7/16/3t

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

To all persons interested in the estate of GEORGE Z BASLE Estate No. 21183 Notice is given that KIMBERLY L WILSON whose address is 2 FEDERAL HL BERLIN, MD 21811-3237 was on JULY 09, 2026 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of GEORGE Z BASLE who died on JUNE 22, 2026 with a will.

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

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

TERRI WESTCOTT, Register of Wills for WORCESTER COUNTY ONE W MARKET STREET ROOM 102 - COURT HOUSE SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1074 OCD-7/16/3t

PETER S. BUAS, ESQ. COASTAL LAW OFFICE, LLC 3509 COASTAL HWY OCEAN CITY, MD 21842-3334

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

To all persons interested in the estate of THOMAS CARVILLE VACH Estate No. 21182 Notice is given that RICHARD J VACH JR whose address is 12504 WHISPER TRACE DR OCEAN CITY, MD 21842-9170 was on JULY 09, 2026 appointed Personal Representative of the es-

tate of THOMAS CARVILLE VACH who died on JUNE 17, 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 9th 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 9th 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.

TERRI WESTCOTT, Register of Wills for WORCESTER COUNTY ONE W MARKET STREET ROOM 102 - COURT HOUSE SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1074 OCD-7/16/3t

JONATHAN E. BECKER ESQ. ECKELL SPARKS 300 W. STATE STREET, SUITE 300 MEDIA, PA 19063

NOTICE

TO CREDITORS OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVES ESTATE NO. 21180

NOTICE IS GIVEN that the REGISTER OF WILLS court of DELAWARE COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA appointed MARY DOUGHERTY HUNT whose address is 850 CHANDLEE DR., WEST CHESTER, PA 19382-1976 as the PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE of the Estate of DOROTHY A. DOUGHERTY who died on NOVEMBER 26, 2025 domiciled in PENNSYLVANIA, USA

The name and address of the Maryland resident agent for service of process is KATHLEEN MCCRUDEN whose address is 8007 BAILEYS LN., PASADENA, MD 21122-4633. 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.

TERRI WESTCOTT, Register of Wills for Worcester County ONE W MARKET STREET ROOM 102 - COURT HOUSE SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1074

OCD-7/16/3t

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

KELLY MARIE FREBURGER ESTATE NO. 21186

NOTICE

OF JUDICIAL PROBATE

To all Persons Interested in the above estate:

You are hereby notified that a petition has been filed by Spiros P. Buas, 9923 Stephen Decatur Highway, #D3, Ocean City, MD 21842 for judicial probate for the appointment of a personal representative. A hearing will be held at One W. Market Street, Court Room 4, Court House, Snow Hill, MD 21863 on 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 23, 2026 OCD-7/23/2t

NOTICE

OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

To all persons interested in the estate of LINDA E. GREEN Estate No. 21185 Notice is given that MELANIE HARRIMAN WHISNER whose address is 6904 SENECA DR., SNOW HILL, MD 21863-3356 was on JULY 13, 2026 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of LINDA E. GREEN who died on JUNE 12, 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 13th day of JANUARY,

2027.

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 13th 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.

TERRI WESTCOTT, Register of Wills for Worcester County ONE W MARKET STREET ROOM 102 - COURT HOUSE

SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1074

OCD-7/23/3t

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING WORCESTER COUNTY BOARD OF ZONING APPEALS AGENDA

THURSDAY AUGUST 13, 2026

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

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

6:30 p.m. Case No. 26-48, on the lands of Chris and Amy Brown, requesting a variance to the front yard setback from 25 feet to 18.5 feet (encroaches 6.5 feet) for a proposed deck in the R-3 Multi-family Residential District, pursuant to Zoning Code §§ ZS 1-116(c)(4), ZS 1-207(b)(2) and ZS 1-305, located at 18 Granby Lane, Tax Map 16, Parcel 47, Section 11, Lot 405, Tax District 3, Worcester County, Maryland.

6:35 p.m. Case No. 26-43, on the lands of Ruby Runikera, requesting a special exception to reconstruct a legal non-conforming rear deck and steps and variance to the side yard setback from 6 feet to 5.9 feet (encroaches 0.1 feet) for a proposed screened porch in the R-3 Multi-family Residential District, pursuant to Zoning Code §§ ZS 1-116(c)(3), ZS 1116(c)(4), ZS 1-116(c)(5), ZS 1122(d)(1), ZS 1-207(b)(2) and ZS 1-305, located at 2 Crows Nest Lane,

Tax Map 16, Parcel 38, Section 1, Lot 660, Tax District 3, Worcester County, Maryland.

6:40 p.m. Case No. 26-50, on the lands of Meral Yilmaz, requesting an after-the-fact variance to the rear yard setback from 30 feet to 11.3 feet (encroaches 18.7 feet) for an existing residence with an attached garage in the R-2 Suburban Residential District, pursuant to Zoning Code §§ ZS 1-116(c)(4), ZS 1-206(b)(2) and ZS 1305, located at 608 Ocean Parkway, Tax Map 16, Parcel 46, Section 9, Lot 357, Tax District 3, Worcester County, Maryland.

6:45 p.m. Case No. 26-52, on the lands of RJM LLC, on the application of Robert Mason Jr., requesting a special exception for a private noncommercial building for the storage of personal property in the A-1 Agricultural District, pursuant to Zoning Code §§ ZS 1-116(c)(3), ZS 1201(c)(34) and ZS 1-305, located on Old Stage Road approximately 1,700 feet south of Hammond Road, Tax Map 9, Parcel 126, Tax District 5, Worcester County, Maryland.

6:50 p.m. Case No. 26-54, on the lands of Robert McIntire, requesting a variance to the front yard setback from 25 feet to 15 feet (encroaches 10 feet) for a proposed covered porch in the R-3 Multi-family Residential District, pursuant to Zoning Code §§ ZS 1-116(c)(4), ZS 1-207(b)(2) and ZS 1-305, located at 55 Moonshell Drive, Tax Map 16, Parcel 41, Section 4, Lot 168, Tax District 3, Worcester County, Maryland.

6:55 p.m. Case No. 26-53, on the lands of Jennifer and James Weber, requesting a variance to the side yard setback from 6 feet to 1.8 feet (encroaches 4.2 feet) for a proposed detached garage in the R-3 Multifamily Residential District, pursuant to Zoning Code §§ ZS 1-116(c)(4), ZS 1-207(b)(2) and ZS 1-305, located at 45 Clubhouse Drive, Tax Map 16, Parcel 41, Section 4, Lot 452, Tax District 3, Worcester County, Maryland.

7:00 p.m. Case No. 26-55, on the lands of Keith Davis and Saumya Kaup, requesting a variance to the front yard setback from 35 feet to 9.35 feet (encroaches 25.65 feet) for proposed attached garage in the V-1 Village District, pursuant to Zoning Code §§ ZS 1-116(c)(4), ZS 1204(b)(2) and ZS 1-305, located at 8344 Third Street, Tax Map 73, Parcel 35, Lots 74-76, Tax District 2, Worcester County, Maryland.

7:05 p.m. Case No. 26-56, on the lands of Daniel E. Clayland, requesting a variance to reduce the lot size from 10,000 square feet to 7,800 square feet (a reduction of 2,200 square feet), a variance to reduce the lot size from 10,000 square feet to 6,500 square feet (a reduction of 3,500 square feet), and a variance to reduce the lot width from 100 feet to 50 feet to create two lots in the R-2 Suburban Residential District, pursuant to Zoning Code §§ ZS 1116(c)(4), ZS 1-206(b)(2) and ZS 1-305, located at 12910 Lake Avenue, Tax Map 22, Parcel 397, Lots 34 and 35, Tax District 10, Worcester County, Maryland.

7:10 p.m. Case No. 26-57, on the lands of Horace L Jr. and Quinna Marshall, requesting a Special Ex-

ception to allow the application of a soil amendment created from human decedents, also known as natural organic reduction, as a use of the same general character as permitted uses in the A-1 District, pursuant to §§ ZS 1-116(c)(3) and ZS 1-201(c)(36), located at Scotty Road, Tax Map 62, Parcel 13, Tax District 7, Worcester County, Maryland.

OCD-7/30/2t

TOWN OF BERLIN, MARYLAND NOTICE OF A PUBLIC HEARING ORDINANCE 2026-05

AN ORDINANCE OF THE MAYOR AND COUNCIL OF THE TOWN OF BERLIN, MARYLAND, A MARYLAND MUNICIPAL CORPORATION, AMENDING CERTAIN SECTIONS OF CHAPTER 28, STREETS, SIDEWALKS, AND CERTAIN OTHER PUBLIC PLACES.

This ordinance is scheduled for introduction and first reading on Monday, July 27, 2026, at 6:00 PM. A public hearing on the ordinance will be held on Monday, August 10, 2026, at 6:00 PM. Both meetings will take place during the Regular Session of the Mayor and Council at the Berlin Library, 13 Harrison Avenue, Berlin, MD 21811.

The hearing is open to the public, and public testimony is encouraged. Persons with questions regarding this hearing may call 410-641-2770 for further information.

OCD-7/23/2t _________________________________

MARK H. WITTSTADT

GERARD F. MILES, JR. COLE LUTHY

Substitute Trustees 1966 Greenspring Dr., LL2 Lutherville Timonium, Maryland 21093

V

Richard L. China

Tammy L. China

5603 Atlantic Ave., #101 Ocean City, Maryland 21842 Defendants IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR WORCESTER COUNTY CASE # C-23-CV-26-000111 NOTICE

ORDERED, by the Circuit Court for Worcester County this 22nd day of July, 2026, that the foreclosure sale of the real property known as 5603 Atlantic Ave., #101, Ocean City, Maryland 21842, being the property mentioned in these proceedings, made and reported by Mark H. Wittstadt, Gerard F. Miles, Jr., Cole Luthy, Substitute Trustees, be RATIFIED AND CONFIRMED, unless cause to the contrary thereof be shown on or before the 24th day of August, 2026. Provided a copy of this Order be inserted in Ocean City Digest, once in each of three successive weeks, before the 17th day of August,

2026.

The Report states the amount of the Foreclosure Sale to be $1,040,000.00.

Susan R. Braniecki Clerk of the Circuit Court of Worcester County, Maryland

True Copy Test: Susan R. Braniecki Clerk of the Circuit Court Worcester County, MD OCD-7/30/3t

Mayor & City Council Ocean City, Maryland

BID

SOLICITATION –B02-27

Ocean City Racquet Center Renovation

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

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

A Pre-BID Meeting will be held on TUESDAY, AUGUST 11TH, 2026 AT 10:00AM EST, AT THE OCEAN CITY RACQUET CENTER, 104 61ST STREET, OCEAN CITY, MARYLAND 21842. The Last Day for Questions will be on TUESDAY, AUGUST 25TH, 2026 AT 4:00PM EST. Addendum will be posted by close of business on WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 26TH, 2026

Sealed BID Documents are due no later than MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 28TH, 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, SEPTEMBER 29TH, 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 (Ocean City Racquet Center Renovation) must be noted on the outside of the package.

Late BID Documents will not be accepted.

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

Matt Perry Procurement Manager Town of Ocean City, Maryland OCD-7/30/9t

NOTICE

OF PUBLIC HEARINGS BOARD OF PORT WARDENS

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

Thursday, August 13, 2:00 PM

PW 26-038 A request has been submitted to install 60’ or replacement vinyl bulkheading; install a new 3’ x 35’ dock and a 6’ x 15’ dock and drive six mooring pilings maximum channelward extension 16’. The site of the proposed construction is described as being located at 227 N HERON DR Parcel # 5313A-43 in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.

OWNER: Mary Stephanie Ring

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

PW 26-039 A request has been submitted to remove an existing PWC lift, construct a 4’ x 12’ dock and install one double PWC lift maximum channelward extension of 19’. The site of the proposed construction is described as being located at 158 CHANNEL BUOY RD Parcel # 1465A-37 in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.

OWNER” Jennifer MacGilvray APPLICANT: J. Stacey Hart & Assoc., Inc.

PW 26-040 A request has been submitted to install one boat lift on existing pilings not to exceed 28’ channelward extension. The site of the proposed construction is described as being located at 778 94TH ST UNIT 313 Parcel # 9647 -313 -2 in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.

OWNER: Stephen & Evette Long APPLICANT: J. Stacey Hart & Assoc., Inc.

PW 26-041 A request has been submitted to construct a 5’ x 12’ dock, construct a 6’ x 23’ shared pier and install one boatlift with associated pilings not to exceed 29’ channelward. The site of the proposed construction is described as being located at 109 NEWPORT BAY DR UNIT C Parcel # 3667A-C1 in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.

OWNER: Derek Blazer

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

PW 26-042 A request has been submitted for a maintenance dredge period of six years consisting of bringing proposed area to uniform depth as needed and remove dredge spoil to an upland site. To remove an existing 5’ x 150’ pier and construct

a new 8’ x 150’ pier; channelward extension to remain at current 150’; and to relocate existing floating docks to new location and new size of 20’ x 50’ parallel to building. The site of the proposed construction is described as being located at 312 TALBOT ST Parcel # 2458 -203A - in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.

OWNER: Bayfront Property, LLC

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

PW 26-043 A request has been submitted to install 60’ of replacement vinyl bulkhead not to exceed 18” channelward. Existing pier and lifts to be moved with new bulkhead; to install a new 2’ x 6’ kayak launch, maximum channelward extension 12’. The site of the proposed construction is described as being located at 160 CHANNEL BUOY RD Parcel # 1466A-36 in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.

OWNER: A & J Kasmer Trust

APPLICANT: McGinty Marine Construction OCD-7/30/2t

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. 21194 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF BRUCE R. TODD

Notice is given that Starlett Y. Todd, 10858 Bishopville Road, Bishopville, MD 21813, was on July 23, 2026 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Bruce R. Todd who died on June 19, 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 23rd 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 23rd 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 Reg-

ister of Wills.

Starlett Y. Todd

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 30, 2026

OCD-7/30/3t

SMALL ESTATE NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 21190 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF JUDY GRAY HUDSON

Notice is given that Kimberly Marowski, 9315 Libertytown Rd., Berlin, MD 21811-2152, was on July 21, 2026 appointed personal representative of the small estate of Judy Gray Hudson who died on June 19, 2026, without a will.

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

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

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

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

(2) Thirty days after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claim within thirty days from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. Any claim not served or filed within that time, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter.

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

Name of newspaper designated by personal representative: Ocean City Digest

Date of publication: July 30, 2026

MARIANNA BATIE ESQ

LAW OFFICE OF MARIANNA BATIE 1321 MOUNT HERMON RD STE B

SALISBURY, MD 21804-5303

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

To all persons interested in the estate of DAVID JOHN PYLE Estate No. 21170 Notice is given that DIANNE VANAMAN PYLE whose address is 27 CANAL RD BERLIN, MD 21811-1601 was on JULY 24, 2026 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of DAVID JOHN PYLE who died on APRIL 19, 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 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 24th 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.

TERRI WESTCOTT, Register of Wills for WORCESTER COUNTY ONE W MARKET STREET ROOM 102 - COURT HOUSE SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1074 OCD-7/30/3t

SMALL ESTATE NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 21191

TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF GABRIEL PRESTON LITTEN

Notice is given that Theresa Lynn Litten, 7729 Downs Rd., Newark, MD 21841-2045, was on July 24, 2026 appointed personal representative of the small estate of Gabriel Preston Litten who died on June 25, 2026, with a will.

Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in

the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal representative or the attorney.

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

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

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

(2) Thirty days after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claim within thirty days from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. Any claim not served or filed within that time, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter.

Theresa Lynn Litten

Personal Representative True Test Copy Register of Wills for Worcester County Terri Westcott

One W. Market Street Room 102 - Court House Snow Hill, MD 21863-1074

Name of newspaper designated by personal representative: Ocean City Digest

Date of publication: July 30, 2026

OCD-7/30/1t

SMALL ESTATE NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

Estate No. 12997

TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF RUTH CALLAHAN WESTFALL

Notice is given that Douglas Wayne Westfall Sr., 5053 Creek Rd., Snow Hill, MD 21863-3665, was on April 14, 2008 appointed personal representative of the small estate of Ruth Callahan Westfall who died on February 05, 2008, with a will.

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

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

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

sentative or file them with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates:

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

(2) Thirty days after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claim within thirty days from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. Any claim not served or filed within that time, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter.

Douglas Wayne Westfall Sr. Personal Representative True Test Copy Register of Wills for Worcester County Terri Westcott

One W. Market Street Room 102 - Court House Snow Hill, MD 21863-1074

Name of newspaper designated by personal representative: Ocean City Digest

Date of publication: July 30, 2026

SMALL

OCD-7/30/1t

ESTATE NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 21158 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF JOSEH P. MAHER

AKA: JOSEPH P. MAHER, JOSEPH PURCELL MAHER

Notice is given that Marianne Roth Maher, 12709 Collins Rd., Bishopville, MD 21813-1535, was on July 23, 2026 appointed personal representative of the small estate of Joseph P. Maher who died on April 15, 2026, with a will.

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

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

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

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

(2) Thirty days after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claim within thirty days from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. Any claim not

served or filed within that time, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter.

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

Name of newspaper designated by personal representative: Ocean City Digest

Date of publication: July 30, 2026

OCD-7/30/1t

M. DAVID STALLINGS ESQ. NILES, BARTON & WILMER, LLP 12417 OCEAN GTWY., STE. B13 OCEAN CITY, MD 21842-9521

SMALL ESTATE

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 21198 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF JEANNE B. PASQUARIELLO

Notice is given that Carolyn Downey, 11328 Saint Martins Neck Rd., Bishopville, MD 21813-1602, was on July 27, 2026 appointed personal representative of the small estate of Jeanne B. Pasquariello who died on May 03, 2026, with a will. Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal representative or the attorney.

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

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

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

(2) Thirty days after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claim within thirty days from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. Any claim not served or filed within that time, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter.

Carolyn Downey Personal Representative True Test Copy Register of Wills for Worcester County Terri Westcott One W. Market Street Room 102 - Court House Snow Hill, MD 21863-1074 Name of newspaper designated by

personal representative: Ocean City Digest

Date of publication: July 30, 2026

OCD-7/30/1t

C. LEE GORDON, ESQ. PARKER COUNTS

129 N. WASHINGTON STREET EASTON, MD 21601

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

To all persons interested in the estate of KAREN S ADAMS Estate No. 21199 Notice is given that HEATHER ADAMS whose address is 7901 CIRCLE RD WHALEYVILLE, MD 21872-2018 was on JULY 27, 2026 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of KAREN S ADAMS who died on MARCH 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 27th 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 27th day of JANUARY, 2027

Any person having a claim against the decedent must present the claim to the undersigned per-

sonal 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-7/30/3t

MATTHEW A PEARL ESQ

MCALLISTER, DE TAR, SHOWALTER & WALKER, LLC 100 N WEST ST EASTON, MD 21601-2710

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

To all persons interested in the estate of GLEN DWIGHT SMITH Estate No. 21200 Notice is given that KAREN MARY SMITH whose address is 12035 S PINEY POINT RD BISHOPVILLE, MD 21813-1543 was on JULY 27, 2026 appointed Personal Representative of the es-

tate of GLEN DWIGHT SMITH who died on JUNE 05, 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 27th 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 27th 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.

TERRI WESTCOTT, Register of Wills for WORCESTER COUNTY ONE W MARKET STREET

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, August 13, 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, #26-09300002)

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

Home sales start with a local MLS

By Lauren Bunting Contributing Writer

(July 31, 2026) You may be familiar with the term MLS in the world of real estate—an MLS is the “multiple listing service” that provides an online platform compiling home listings from brokerages in a given market. In one of their latest Consumer Guide series, the National Association of REALTORS® offers an in-depth look at what an MLS offers.

MLSs are an efficient tool for marketing properties, seeing available homes for sale, getting helpful marketplace data, and sharing listing infor-

mation to various websites that advertise property information to consumers and provide online brokerage services. There are around 500 MLSs across the U.S., each with its own rules. Our local MLS is called Bright MLS.

An MLS allows real estate professionals to see, share, and promote homes for sale so that they can be found by the largest pool of potential buyers. MLSs provide the most accurate, reliable, and detailed information about properties (both those that have sold and those currently for sale), including listing price, address, features, disclosures and other pertinent property and market details. MLSs also help promote fair housing and equal opportunity by giving real estate professionals and their clients access to consistent information.

MLSs are the most trusted source for real estate data because their information is curated and verified by real estate professionals. Listing on an

MLS will help a seller reach the largest pool of buyers and potentially attract the best offer.

As a seller, if you decide to have your agent not list your home on an MLS because you prefer to limit or restrict market exposure, you will be asked to sign a document verifying that you have made this choice. MLSs have rules aimed at ensuring equitable access to accurate and reliable property data, and these rules also provide sellers with flexibility in how they work with their real estate professional in marketing their homes.

As of August 17, 2024, offers of compensation are no longer allowed on MLSs. However, offers of compensation can still be made off-MLS and shared through common marketing vehicles such as flyers, signs, emails or other communications.

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

OC implements artificial intelligence rules

New policy allows staff to use AI for data evaluation, prohibits wearable AI tech

By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor

(July 31, 2026) A discussion on the use of artificial intelligence has made its way to Ocean City government.

Noting a recent survey, in which employees from every city department reported using some type of artificial intelligence (AI) platform to conduct town business, Deputy City Manager JR Harmon told City Council members this week he was seeking their approval of a new policy that will guide staff, elected officials, contractors and volunteers when using AI tools.

The document, he said, covers acceptable and prohibited uses, transparency, incident response procedures, and approved AI platforms, to list a few.

“This policy ensures that AI technologies are used in a manner that protects sensitive information, maintains public trust, and complies with applicable federal, state, and local laws, including public records and data protection laws,” he told the council during Tuesday’s work session.

Mayor Rick Meehan told officials this week that he had approached Harmon in January, after attending a mayoral conference in which AI was a major topic. After learning that several municipalities had already adopted policies on AI use, he stressed the importance for Ocean City to do the same.

“This is moving faster than any of us probably ever imagined or could keep up with individually,” he said, “and I think it’s extremely important that we have a policy in place to protect our government and our employees.”

Working with the city’s information technology director, Harmon said staff crafted a policy of “dos and don’ts,” as well as an appendix of approved AI software and platforms. That includes tools such as Axon, Google Gemini and Grammarly and generative AI platforms such as ChatGPT and Claude.

“As technology improves and we reach approval from our information technology department, it will be easier to add different platforms in here that are acceptable at that time,” he explained.

However, rather than let employees pick and choose their preferred AI tool, Councilman John Gehrig asked if the city should explore a subscriptionbased enterprise account that can be used by whole departments. Doing so, he said, would allow the city to control and keep track of how AI was being used.

“Using a variety of disparate free versions of these tools isn’t good,” he

said. “We’re going to need a better, long-term solution. I think we can have a content policy right now. I think that’s step one.”

While noting that the policy would control what employees are currently using, Harmon said proprietary sites can be used if approved by the IT department and justified in the budget.

City Manager Terry McGean said staff had looked into getting a subscriptionbased enterprise account and found it to be “incredibly cost prohibitive.”

“So, we’re starting with a policy, but hopefully the price of the enterprise version of some of these will go down,” he said. “In the meantime, I think what’s been going on is certain divisions within departments, I think there may be folks who have gotten city subscriptions to it.”

Council President Matt James

asked if the city would allow AI applications access into the city network. If so, he said the city would need more control over AI use.

“We’re going to need a subscription,” he said.

Gehrig continued to advocate for a paid service that would give the city more oversight. However, he said those AI services can be rolled out, department by department.

“This is like step one of a process,” he said of the policy, “not the final process.”

After further discussion, the council voted unanimously to adopt the AI use policy as presented. Meehan acknowledged that the policy was a working document and would likely be updated moving forward.

“I think this is a great start, what I’m looking at,” Councilman Jeff

Heiser said.

According to the newly adopted policy, employees can use AI tools to generate draft reports and communications, analyze research and data, develop tourism campaigns, slogans and graphic designs, and assist with grant writing preparation, to name a few. However, the policy makes it clear that AI should only be used as an informational tool and not a “as a substitution for human judgment or decision making.”

The policy does prohibit employees from using AI to input confidential information such as personal records or non-public financial data, or to make decisions regarding code enforcement, permitting or legal determinations. It also forbids employees from wearing AI-enabled devices such as smart glasses or pins.

9748 Stephen Decatur Hwy. #112 Ocean City, MD 21842 1321-B Mt. Hermon Rd. Salisbury, MD 21804 443-856-4676 Monday-Friday www.batielaw.com

Expansion planned for Art League headquarters in OC

Ocean City Council set to contribute $309K toward 1,400 square foot addition

By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor

(July 31, 2026) The Art League of Ocean City will use its partnership with the city, as well as a grant award, to build a 1,400-square-foot addition at its 94th Street facility.

On Tuesday, the Ocean City Council approved $309,000 in funding for the Art League of Ocean City. The local match, officials say, will allow the organization to construct additional program space.

“The expansion itself is really small – it’s 1,400 square feet – but it will have a big impact on us because it will allow us to add flexible meeting and classroom space and exhibit space on the first floor, and an additional classroom on the second floor,” Rina Thaler, executive director for the Art League told council members. “Most importantly, it will allow us to meet the demand for arts programming without turning people away.”

Thaler, joined by Art League board members and supporters, told the mayor and council Tuesday that the

July 30 - August 6

organization was seeking to build an addition to the west side of the facility, where a patio and green space currently reside. She noted the current facility, constructed in 2013, no longer had the space to expand art programs or kids’ camps.

Both Thaler and board President Crystal Collins noted that while the Art League was able to accommodate 300 camp participants this summer, it also had to turn away another 300. Past President John Sisson also said the organization has had to create an outside storage unit, and turn stairwells into galleries, just to accommodate office space and artwork.

“We’ve done about all we can with the space we have,” he said.

In fiscal year 2025, the Maryland State Arts Council awarded the Art League an $83,000 capital grant to enhance the organization’s exterior usability with walkway improvements, updated signage and a shaded pergola, to be used for art programming.

However, after realizing the need for an enclosed space, Thaler said the Art League sought, and received, the state’s permission to use the funds for the construction project instead.

“We were able to go back to the

Wilson/Salt Life Community Friday 11am-1pm 201 S. Heron Drive #26B, Ocean City

Friday 1:30-3pm 779 Ocean Parkway, Ocean Pines 3BR/2BA

Friday 2-4pm 5907 Atlantic Avenue #205, Ocean City 2BR/2BA

Saturday 10am-Noon 12120 Pimlico Lane, Berlin 4BR/3.5BA

Saturday 10am-Noon 12 Leigh Drive, Ocean Pines 4BR/3.5BA

Saturday 10am-Noon 735 Bradley Road #204, Ocean City 1BR/1BA

Saturday 10am-1pm 403 14th St #13 Harbour Island, Ocean City 3BR/3.5BA

Reither/Coldwell Banker Realty

Shawn Kotwica/Coldwell Banker Realty

$449,000 Shawn Kotwica/Coldwell Banker Realty

Sally Todd Stout/BHHS PenFed Realty

Shawn Kotwica/Coldwell Banker Realty

$299,000 Ann Holtz/Coldwell Banker Realty

Family $1,259,000 Sandra Dougan/BHHS PenFed Realty

Saturday 10:30am-12:30pm 12301 Jamaica Ave #351N, Ocean City 2BR/2BA Condo $499,900 Nancy Reither/Coldwell Banker Realty

Saturday 10:30am-12:30pm 24 Stacy Court, Ocean Pines 4BR/2.5BA

Saturday 11-1pm 9 127th St #201, Ocean City 3BR/2BA

Saturday 11am-1pm 1465 Ocean Parkway, Ocean Pines 4BR/2.5BA

Saturday 11am-2pm 37304 Lighthouse Rd #10, West Fenwick/Selbyville, DE 4BR/4BA

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

Saturday 1:30-3:30pm 953 Yacht Club Drive, Ocean Pines 3BR/2.5BA

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

Saturday 1-3pm 6201 Coastal Highway #806, Ocean City 4BR/3BA

Saturday 2-4pm 421 Bayshore Drive #202, Ocean City 2BR/2BA

Sunday 10am-1pm 403 14th St #13 Harbour Island, Ocean City 3BR/3.5BA

Sunday 11am-1pm 30847 E Annie Lank Avenue, Milton, DE 3BR/2BA

Sunday 11am-2pm 2212 Corbett Road, Monkton, MD 5BR/3BA

Sunday 11:30am-1:30pm 75 King Richard Road, Ocean Pines 4BR/3.5BA

Family

Katie Landon/ Coldwell Banker Realty

$475,000 Rob & Anne-Marie Bouse/RE/MAX Advantage Realty

Power of 2 Team/Hileman Real Estate

Bryan Baylis/Coldwell Banker Realty

$284,750 Shelly Wilson/Salt Life Community

Landon/Coldwell Banker Realty

Debbie Hileman/Hileman Real Estate

Nancy Reither/Coldwell Banker Realty

Kotwica/Coldwell Banker Realty

State grants helping to pay for construction

state of Maryland,” she explained. “They came down and gave their approval on moving head with an enclosed expansion, as opposed with a pergola that can only be used in the summertime.”

Now, with the state grant in hand, Thaler said she was seeking the city’s partnership in leveraging those dollars. As the project is estimated to cost $617,550, she said she was requesting a 50% match.

“Sometimes it's not only the dollars and cents that come out of a place like this,” she said, referencing the economic impact the Art League had on the community. “It’s how it changes people’s lives, and there are so many people's lives who have been changed at the Art League. And it's also a matter of how we present Ocean City.”

For his part, City Manager Terry McGean noted that projects are normally added to the city’s capital improvement program, which is reviewed each fall ahead of next year’s budget.

“That’s typically the time we look at a project such as this, unless you all want to do something different,” he told the council.

Thaler, on the other hand, urged council members to act expeditiously.

“My goal is to have this there for next summer,” she said. “A 1,400square-foot addition is not that hard to add, but I’d love to be able to not turn those children away next summer.”

“If it starts now, it can easily be done by March,” said Jeff Thaler, Rina Thaler’s husband and owner of Atlantic Planning and Development, the company completing design work for the addition.

Noting the city’s long-lived partnership with the Art League, Mayor Rick Meehan said he supported the organization’s request. Councilman John Gehrig agreed.

“Arts and culture are important for any community,” Gehrig said. “The economic development is the bonus.”

With that said, council members on Tuesday voted unanimously to approve matching funds, not to exceed $309,000, unless there is further approval from the City Council.

McGean said that money would be taken out of the city’s capital maintenance fund, which would be replenished in the fiscal year 2028 budget cycle.

OC Council eyes changes to fiscal year ’26 spending plan

Amendments to be made within general, enterprise funds for previous budget

By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor

(July 31, 2026) Ocean City officials this week agreed to advance several budget amendments to a first reading,

In a 7-0 vote, the Ocean City Council on Tuesday approved a series of changes to the fiscal year 2026 budget. Those adjustments, presented this week by Budget Director Jennie Knapp, will affect budgeted revenues and expenses, as well as enterprise funds.

expense side – salaries and benefits, HVAC repairs and the like – also increased.

“They still will show a large profit in FY 26, which will contribute to the time period where they need to not be operational or reduce operations during the flood remediation project” Knapp said of the golf course.

At the airport, the city collected $228,565 in revenue from Globalinx, the company leasing space at the facility for a transatlantic cable landing. Other revenues, including fuel sales and service charges and rent, decreased.

‘On the operational side, they ended up providing $313,000 more than we had funded in the budget. Because of that, and reducing some expenses, we were able to reduce the general fund contribution by over $300,000.’

Jennie Knapp, Budget Director

Within the enterprise accounts, for example, convention center revenues increased $421,736, which offset an increase in operating expenses and reduced the city’s need to use $76,000 in fund balance.

At Eagles Landing Golf Course, food, beverage and shop sales increased $39,800, while items on the

Enterprise accounts also include the water, wastewater and transportation funds, all of which recorded some budget changes. The transportation department, for example, received capital grants to purchase new buses, while recording additional revenues and decreased expenses.

“On the operational side, they ended up providing $313,000 more than we had funded in the budget,”

Finalized budget to be shared

Knapp said. “Because of that, and reducing some expenses, we were able to reduce the general fund contribution by over $300,000.”

In the general fund, the budget recorded an overall increase of $5.1 million. That change, Knapp said, recognizes revenues that exceed the budgeted amount and a reduction in the use of prior year funds.

On the revenue side, grants, donations, and interest on investments increased $2.9 million; income, highway user, and amusement tax increased $1.2 million; and service charges (fees), room licenses and building permits increased $1.5 million.

The city recorded a $308,987 decrease in parking revenue, a $105,000 decrease in parking and tow fines, a $64,860 decrease in corporation and excise tax revenues, a $60,000 decrease from the cable TV franchise, and a $50,998 reduction in Winterfest revenues.

The city also recorded a $6.13 million increase in expenditures, with the bulk of the increase related to police overtime, take-home vehicles, and an Axon equipment contract. Other expense increases include $565,475 in vehicle repairs within solid waste and public works, $247,682 for Beach Patrol part-time and overtime, $240,000 in legal fees, and $196,532 in energy costs.

A lovely Cape Cod home offering 2,464 sq. ft. of living space nestled on 1.07 acres on a quiet dead-end street. Combining warmth, character, and modern upgrades, this property is a perfect blend of comfort and coastal convenience. The main floor features a spacious two-car garage, a laundry room, and a large eat-in kitchen. Two well-sized bedrooms and a full bath complete the first level. Upstairs, the primary suite is a true retreat, featuring a large bedroom, charming bathroom with a clawfoot tub, dark wood vanity and walk-in shower. The second upstairs bedroom, currently used as a theatre room (All equipment and furniture in this room is negotiable). Step outside to enjoy the expansive fenced backyard, perfect for entertaining with a stoned firepit, patio, deck, and swimming pool—a true outdoor oasis. This home offers the tranquility of a country setting with the convenience of nearby coastal living. Don't wait, this one will not last long!

$525,000

Expense reductions, on the other hand, totaled $951,839. Mosts of that reduction is tied to grants the city’s transportation department received, salary and benefit savings ($181,400), and the city’s contract with Reworld, the waste-to-energy company ($134,365).

“We did not have as many tons of trash as we anticipated,” she said.

With revenue increases, expenditure reductions and a decrease in transfers to the city’s transportation division, the amount of fund balance used in fiscal year 2026 will decrease $1.4 million from what was initially budgeted. However, $975,000 of that savings will fund the police takehome vehicle program.

Other balances set to change include deferred ticket revenue the city received from the Oceans Calling festival, Country Calling festival and other concerts. That balance is expected to increase from $428,000 to $1.3 million. The city will use $771,267 from that account to cover concert advertising, Winterfest displays, special events, and more.

Following Knapp’s presentation, the City Council on Tuesday voted to move an ordinance to first reading on Aug. 17.

The finalized FY26 budget will be shared in the city’s annual report, which is presented each fall following an annual audit.

42 Quarter Staff Place

Ocean Pines, DE

Conveniently located in th South Gate of Ocean Pines. This lovely rancher has 3 bedrooms, 2 full baths, beautiful stone front with a welcoming front porch, open floorplan and backs to forestry. This 1200sqft+ home features engineered hardwood, masonry, wood burning, stone fireplace, large primary suite with ensuite bath featuring walk-in tiled shower, soaking tub, granite tops and warm wood cabinets. Modern kitchen with warm wood cabinetry, stainless appliances and granite counter tops! As an added bonus, the home features a 2-car garage and new roof in 2025! Lake for fishing, community center, oceanfront beach club in Ocean City (48th Street). JUST 8.9 miles to the beach! Better act FAST! This one won't last!

$425,000

400 William Street #2 Berlin, MD

Here's your chance to live in America's Coolest Small Town! The Townes of Berlin, a small intimate townhouse community. This 3-story, oversized, townhome has 2560 square ft. of living space. We begin our tour with a large flex space downstairs featuring 1/2 bath and a ground floor entrance from the large garage or covered patio. This space offers unlimited uses. The main floor features a 1/2 bath and open floorplan all featuring LVP flooring. The eat-in kitchen features warm wood cabinets, breakfast bar, stainless appliances, lg. dining area and a walkout balcony; a perfect space to enjoy the pond views and morning coffee. Upstairs there are 2 bedrooms (with ample closets) with a shared bath, PLUS primary suite with another private balcony, large, ensuite bathroom featuring walk-in closet, stand-up shower and soaking tub. Located Just 10-15 minutes to Ocean City and Assateague beaches! Don't Hesitate, or you'll miss this one!

$415,000

This charming rancher features one-floor living with soaring ceilings, open floor plan, plenty of windows creating a bright and airy living space. Back deck for morning coffee time! Large primary suite with ensuite bath and "his" and "her" closets. BONUS: Attached garage and the home backs to undisturbed forestry. Arcadia village is a small neighborhood of only 41 homes. LOW HOA of less than $500 per year. Located in between Berlin and Snow Hill and just a short drive to all things Worcester County, Maryland has to offer; quaint historical towns, Assateague Island, Ocean City beaches, boardwalk and MORE!!

Measles cases increase in Md.

By Brian Shane Staff Writer

(July 31, 2026) Maryland has recorded a sharp increase in measles cases linked largely to travel, although no exposure locations have been identified in Worcester County.

The state has confirmed 12 cases since April, matching its total from the previous nine years combined. Eleven cases were linked to international or out-of-state travel, and health officials say they have found no evidence of sustained community transmission in Maryland.

The state’s health agency also reports there have been no ongoing community outbreaks. Contact tracing has shown no evidence of sustained, secondary community transmission originating from these travelers inside Maryland.

While the state does not disclose the counties where individual patients live, the Worcester County Health Department said it would promptly alert the public if contact tracing identified a local exposure site.

Contact tracing begins with interviews to determine where an infected person went while contagious and who may have been exposed. The county said it works with state and other local health departments to identify those locations and notify the public when necessary.

A person with measles can spread the virus beginning four days before a rash appears – meaning an infected visitor could move through public places before realizing they are sick.

Measles spreads through the air when an infected person breathes, coughs, or sneezes. The virus can remain in an enclosed space for up to two hours after that person leaves.

People with measles visited public locations in Baltimore, Westminster, Mechanicsville, Charlotte Hall, and Leonardtown while they may have been contagious, according to the Maryland Department of Health.

Five residents of central Maryland who traveled together to an out-ofstate outbreak area were among the confirmed cases, the state reported.

Nationally, about 70% of measles cases this year involve children and teenagers, according to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Overall, however, the risk remains low for people who are fully vaccinated, according to state health officials. Two doses of the measles, mumps, and rubella vaccine, or MMR, provide about 97% protection.

Those at greatest risk include infants too young to be fully vaccinated, unvaccinated people, and people with weakened immune systems. Early symptoms include a high fever, runny nose, cough, and red, watery eyes.

Later symptoms include a rash that begins on the face and spreads

Health officials tracking uptick

Continued from Page 96

across the body. Symptoms typically appear 10 to 14 days after exposure but may take as long as 21 days.

Anyone who develops symptoms after a possible exposure should avoid school, work, childcare, and public places and call a health care provider before entering a waiting room or emergency department.

Worcester County residents seeking an MMR vaccine may contact the health department’s community health nursing division at 410-632-1100, Option 4.

Berlin reviews sidewalk ordinance

By Tara Fischer Staff Writer

(July 31, 2026) Berlin officials are considering changing the town’s sidewalk ordinance to clarify how repair costs are shared between property owners and the town. The revision also would give homeowners more time to address hazardous pathways and create a hardship deferral process.

The changes were discussed at length at Monday night's Berlin Town Council meeting, as they relate to the town’s sidewalk cost-share program and would clarify certain procedures.

BERLIN TOWN CENTER DISTRICT • B-1 ZONED LOT

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Unique opportunity to own a commercial/B-1 zoned lot in the heart of Berlin's Town Center District. This pie-shaped lot conveys with two EDU's and will allow for various uses including retail, service establishments, hair salons, florists, restaurants, cafes (to include outdoor dining), short-term rental/Airbnb, antique or gift shops, etc. This zoning also allows for dwellings above street level floors where street level floors are utilized for commercial, retail or other uses. (See the town B1 zoning code definition for more info.) The property was most recently operated as The Berlin Commons, a privately owned community green space. The seller is willing to share their renderings for a proposed building upon request.

Town Administrator Mary Bohlen said the proposed changes are intended to explain a program that has been part of the town code for decades.

“The cost share program has always been a part of town code,” Bohlen said. “Hopefully this language clarifies.”

Council members spent part of the discussion debating whether residential and commercial properties should continue to be treated equally under the cost-share program.

Councilman Jack Orris initially pointed out the staff proposal stated commercial property owners were to cover 75% of repair costs while the town pays the remaining 25%.

However, following further conversations, officials opted to keep the cost split 50/50 for both residential and commercial properties.

“If we’re talking about repairs, I would keep it 50/50 for both residential and commercial,” Berlin Mayor Zack Tyndall said.

Councilman Steve Green said he also favored the equal split.

The council maintained that while the cost-share program is standard in other municipalities, they understand the financial burdens they could be placing on residents by requiring them to pay for sidewalk repairs.

Green said many homeowners are

unaware they are responsible for maintaining sidewalks adjacent to their properties.

“I think folks are startled to hear the sidewalk in front of their homes … that is causing a public safety hazard, that it’s their responsibility,” Green said. “Even if it's shared with the town … But I have done the research to see that it is common practice in government that the cost is split.”

Bohlen noted the policy has existed in Berlin’s code since at least 1994.

Still, Tyndall proposed adding a hardship clause allowing property owners to request a 12-month deferral on a case-by-case basis.

“I think there should be some exercisable ability by the homeowner to say, ‘Hey, look, I can’t do this for whatever reason. Can we defer this one year?’” he said.

Bohlen emphasized the proposal would not eliminate a homeowner’s financial obligation but would simply provide additional time.

Tyndall stressed that his reasoning for making a hardship provision available to homeowners is only fair, given that the town’s own participation in the cost-share program depends on available funding.

“It is budget dependent on us hav-

Public hearing set for next council meeting

ing the available funds,” he said.

Bohlen added there is no guarantee funding will be available every year because it relies on annual budget allocations.

As such, Tyndall encouraged residents to contact the town before making sidewalk fixes rather than assuming reimbursement funds would be available.

The discussion also touched on whether the town could address minor trip hazards by grinding uneven sidewalk panels instead of replacing entire sections.

Tyndall said that would depend on whether town staff had the equipment and expertise to safely complete the work while meeting accessibility standards.

“If it’s something that needs to be outsourced … then we have to look at it a little bit differently,” he said.

Public Works Director Jimmy Charles said grinding may be possible for smaller hazards but would become difficult for larger elevation differences.

Council members also considered changes to the amount of time property owners would have to address dangerous sidewalk conditions after receiving notice from the town.

Current code establishes a minimum of 20 days and a maximum of

60 days.

Councilman Jay Knerr argued 20 days was too short and proposed increasing the minimum to 45 days.

Council members and staff agreed weather and contractor availability can delay projects. Planning Director Ryan Hardesty suggested requiring property owners to secure a contractor within the deadline rather than complete the repairs.

Residents also had the opportunity to provide their comments on the issue at Monday’s meeting.

Citizen Marie Velong urged the mayor and council to amend the town code by shifting responsibility for sidewalk repairs to the town’s public works department.

Reading a prepared statement, Velong argued sidewalks are public infrastructure that should be maintained through municipal planning rather than by individual homeowners. She said the current ordinance unfairly places the financial burden on property owners when sidewalks crack because of tree roots or natural settling, potentially exposing them to code enforcement and fines if repairs are not made.

While acknowledging that the proposed 50-50 cost-share program would provide some relief, Velong said it should only serve as a temporary solution. She encouraged offi-

Luxury Living in Glen Riddle

cials to pursue full municipal oversight of sidewalk maintenance, establish a long-term improvement plan for repairs, and include a hardship waiver for residents who cannot afford their share of the costs.

She also suggested the town explore state and federal grant opportunities to help fund future sidewalk improvements.

Bohlen did note that shifting full responsibility to the town would require a costly study to determine which sidewalks would need to be prioritized.

At the end of the discussion, Tyndall summarized proposed amendments that would increase the minimum response time from 20 to 45 days, extend the maximum period to 90 days, require property owners to procure repair services within the

established timeframe, and eliminate permit and fee costs for homeowners.

Council members also debated whether code enforcement officers should have authority to determine when a sidewalk is required or whether those decisions should come before the mayor and council.

Knerr expressed concern that homeowners could be forced into the appeals process unnecessarily.

Tyndall argued staff should retain authority to make those determinations, noting the ordinance already provides property owners with the right to appeal decisions to the Housing Board of Review within 10 days and includes multiple levels of administrative oversight.

The ordinance will advance to a public hearing scheduled for the council’s Aug. 10 meeting.

Opinions

1st Dist. voters will wait and see

When the Maryland General Assembly convenes in special session Monday, its deliberations will not be driven by what’s good for Eastern Shore voters or voters in adjacent counties that someday might be brought into a newly drawn 1st Congressional District.

The only order of business in this session is changing the state constitution so the party in power has greater latitude in deciding how congressional districts can be reconfigured.

Currently, the state constitution encourages compact legislative districts consisting of contiguous geographical land areas. That limitation, although not intended to apply to congressional districts, was nevertheless cited in a court ruling in 2022 that reined in Democrats’ redistricting plan.

Essentially, Maryland Democrats want to draw the state’s only Republican member of congress, 1st District Rep. Andy Harris, out of the picture by moving district lines to embrace more Democrats.

To do that, Democrats want to send an amendment to the constitution to the voters in the November general election. That amendment would make clear that the state constitution’s legislative district restrictions do not apply to congressional districts.

As to be expected, the state’s Republicans are adamantly opposed to this measure, arguing that it is an attempt to dilute the voting power of Republicans. That’s exactly what the Democrats hope to do.

It’s part of both parties’ national tit-for-tat campaign over which party will control Congress. Texas has already redistricted for the GOP’s benefit, as have some other central and southern states, while California and some other blue states are countering with moves of their own.

If Democrats pass this legislation next week, the decision whether to adopt this declaration of authority will go to voters statewide in November. And then 1st District voters might have more to think about.

PUBLIC EYE

T boosters needed?

There’s High Tea, Low T, and T-Rex.

The first is an English meal, the second is apparently affecting some U.S. soldiers and the third is a top-secret formula being developed by the Department of Defense to address the second.

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EDITOR STEWART DOBSON; EXECUTIVE EDITOR STEVE GREEN

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By Stewart Dobson

The above referenced “T,” of course, stands for testosterone, the male sex hormone, which, in large amounts, makes you want to beat the biosolids out of that guy who just looked at you funny.

This whole testosterone business seems to be a relatively new conversation, because we certainly didn't sit around the dinner table discussing it when I was a kid.

Although we did sit at the table at home in the evening reviewing current events, I don’t remember any of us kids saying, “Great fried chicken, Mom! By the way, what’s the latest on testosterone?

The fact is, I was so ignorant about those things back then that I thought minestrone, was a female hormone. My biology teacher set me straight on that ... after he caught his breath.

All these years later, I still don’t know much about testosterone or the lack of it, although I gather the suspected absence of it in some male troops is the issue.

I don’t see it, myself, since it’s unlikely the guys will suddenly develop a fondness for “Scrapbooking with Betty,” because their “T” dropped 1%.

Most health sites online say that’s the rate of decline annually once a male reaches his late 30s.

So, I’m guessing that Department of Defense officials are looking for symptoms of increasing severity as soldiers age.

So if a 1% drop is enough to make a soldier tune in to Betty and her scrapbooking, what happens at the 2% mark ... Shoe Shopping With Jane on QVC?

And finally it must be time to intervene when Gunnery Sgt. Guts McGnash scores a low T 3% and starts ordering brochures from the Red Hat Society.

Supposedly, the drop in testosterone levels in men of a certain age doesn’t affect their ability to fight, even if it does make them a little less eager. A U.S. soldier is still going go out and kick some butt and he’s not going to say to his buddy, “You know, I’m just not feeling it today.”

All this assumes that ramping up the booster shots to T-Rex levels is going to have the desired effect. The American College of Physicians indicates that testosterone therapy might improve sexual function somewhat in some men, but there's little evidence that it improves other functions, such as vitality and energy.

This poses a real problem if we dose up troops in their 30s to where they’re on their high T behavior.

It’s inevitable that this enhanced function will result in some confusion over how to proceed against the enemy.

“Well, men, the enemy is 10,000 strong and dug in,” the colonel says to the men in his brigade. We’re outnumbered three-toone. What do you want to do?”

“.... the enemy!,” comes a voice in the back.

“Well,” the colonel replies, “that’s one option.”

Between the Lines

By Steve Green

No matter how the summer is going, the White Marlin Open is the busiest week of the summer for most businesses in Ocean City. Though it seems clear this summer’s overall business has been lighter than hoped, the tournament comes at a good time because most operations are still at full staffing with the annual exodus of college workers starting the week after.

This year’s tournament features several exciting new additions, such as a 40-foot-and-under small boat division and a non-sonar division. In recent years, there has been scuttlebutt about how the tournament has swung to favoring the most sophisticated boats. Cleary, sonar – the ability to scan underwater for fish – is a huge competitive advantage for the larger and modern boats with experienced anglers. While luck will always be a huge a part of fishing, there’s no doubt technology is a huge advantage for many of the best boats.

By Sunday night, the total boat participation number will be known as well as the prize money. A variety of factors come into play annually when it comes to tournament participation, including offshore conditions and economics like fuel prices. I think tournament organizers had that in mind when they opted for changes to the tourney’s expansion, including the fish three out of six days format.

For review, here’s how the tourney boat totals and purse payouts have stacked up dating back to 2005.

2025: 282/$7.2 million 2024: 318/$8.5 million 2023: 400/$10.5 million

2022: 408/$8.6 million 2021: 444/$9.2 million 2020: 433/$6.8 million

2019: 404/$6.1 million 2018: 382/$5.45 million 2017: 353/$4.97 million

2016: 329/$4.42 million 2015: 307 $3.9 million 2014: 288/$2.77 million 2013: 262/$2.47 million 2012: 253/$2.3 million 2011: 237/$2.13 million 2010: 255/$2.13 million 2009: 298/$2.2 million 2008: 300/$2.3 million 2007: 396/$3.1 million 2006: 428/$3.14 million 2005: 449/$2.7 million

Due to recent rainfall, the outdoor burning ban has been lifted in Worcester County. There is no doubt the recent downpours have helped the situation, and most farmers are getting some much-needed help from Mother Nature. However, what’s always interesting is how spotty the rain can be. For instance, one recent conversation at the farmers market tells the story. After a couple nights of rain dropped more than four inches in Berlin, a farmer from Whaleyville – just seven miles away - reported he received under an inch. Though every location is different, it appears most in the area have exceeded the normal July precipitation of 4.4 inches for the county. For example, Snow Hill and Berlin recorded more than 4 inches in the July 21-22 storm. Tuesday’s rains added to those totals.

People seem to find value in old street signs.

That’s clear with Plak That’s current online auction to sell the recently replaced street signs with proceeds going to charity. The Ocean City effort comes on the heels of last year’s campaign in Berlin where more than 140 retired town signs fetched more than $10,000. It was a respectable effort and most likely played a part with the current effort to sell the signs for charity (Believe in Tomorrow Children’s House) by the folks at Plak That. So far some of the street signs with the most interest include 14th Street ($860 current bid as of Thursday morning); 2nd Street ($810); Surf Avenue ($775); and 19th Street-Unitas Way ($700).

Plak That owner Wyatt Harrison has been blown away by the response, reporting more than 2,700 bids had been received as of Tuesday with some single-cost items, like rip current signs, selling out in days. Harrison expects some signs will end up going for more than $1,000 each as the auction enters its final hours. The auction continues at plakthat.com until Friday, Aug. 7.

This community always steps up whenever the call for help comes. Two recent examples prove the point.

First, the tragic drowning of a 4-year-old Pocomoke girl last weekend led community members to create a Go Fund Me page to help the family with burial expenses. The effort had raised $12,613 as of Thursday morning. You should be able to find the donation page through a simple web search.

Additionally, another grassroots effort is underway to raise funds for Aidan Parks, the local teenager who was severely hurt on the job earlier this month. Parks is an accomplished carpenter in Worcester Tech’s trades program, having won top honors in recent years in the Maryland SkillsUSA Teamworks competition and represented the area in the national competition. Parks, son of one of our co-workers at the newspaper, is home continuing his recovery. His teachers at the tech school wanted to assist Aidan and his family by raffling off a picnic table created by his carpentry class. Tickets are being sold for $10 for a chance to win the table. Drop me an email at editor@octodaydispatch.com and I can send you the link if you want to help.

Offshore wind will impact economy and environment

Editor,

(The following letter is in response to Peter Ayers Wimbrow’s letter last week.)

I have known you all my life and have always respected your abilities as a trial attorney. Your success in the courtroom has long been rooted in careful research, fact-finding, and evidence-based argument. That is why I was surprised by your recent letter, in which you characterize statements from the Mayor and the President in strongly negative terms without providing supporting facts.

I hope you have questions about the way offshore wind development has been advanced and financed. Reports that US Wind has provided payments to certain political figures, some Delaware townships, and environmental organizations, raise concerns about transparency and the potential for perceived conflicts of interest. When public support for such projects already exists, it is reasonable to ask what role, if any, these financial arrangements play in shaping public policy and perception.

Like most people, I support responsible efforts to protect the environment. However, labeling a project as “eco-friendly” does not automatically make it the most effective solution. Large-scale energy proposals should be evaluated based on realworld performance as well as projections.

Offshore wind projects in New England have raised a number of issues that merit continued review. In some cases, developers’ projections regarding energy output, economic benefit, and environmental impact

have not fully aligned with operational experience. The blade failure at the Martha’s Vineyard wind project, which resulted in debris entering the ocean and washing ashore, is often referenced as an example of the types of risks that can occur with these installations.

Additional concerns have been raised regarding variability in power generation, the challenges of maintaining large turbines in harsh marine environments, and the scale of construction required for structures approaching 900 feet in height. Questions also remain about lifecycle impacts, including construction emissions, maintenance activity, underwater transmission cables, and potential effects on marine ecosystems.

Locally, offshore wind development may also have implications for Ocean City’s fishing and maritime economy. Fishermen and tournament boat operators have expressed concern that turbine fields could require slower transit through designated areas, increasing travel time and fuel costs. There are also concerns that construction activity and seabed disturbance could affect shellfish habitats and, in turn, the livelihoods of those who depend on them.

My intent is not to oppose renewable energy, but rather to emphasize the importance of transparent, evidence-based evaluation of large public projects—particularly those supported by taxpayer funds. Such initiatives should demonstrate clear, measurable benefits that outweigh their costs and risks.

Before dismissing criticism of offshore wind as misinformation, it may be worthwhile to examine the full Continued on Page 102

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range of evidence and perspectives with the same rigor and attention to detail that have long defined your legal career.

Reese Cropper, III Ocean City

Keep developers in check Editor,

Something very special happened in Snow Hill on July 21, 2026. At a public hearing before the Worcester County Commissioners, common sense prevailed. The issue at hand was a request to rezone an almost 15 acre portion of the already over congested Route 589. The property owner solicited the services of well known attorney Hugh Cropper and sought a rezone of R-2 to R-3 which would mean the current maximum of 59 new dwellings could be increased to 88.

The rezone was staunchly opposed by many. It was reported that over 900 signatures were gathered to object to the move, and dozens showed up to the hearing to voice their concerns. The hope was the Commissioners would hear their grievances and deny the rezone. This is exactly what happened.

Upon seeing the crowd at the meeting, Mr. Cropper knew he was in trouble. Many indicated their intent to speak in opposition. Mr. Cropper made his usual speech of how this development is good for the community and how all will benefit from his client’s request to rezone. His appearance before the various area Boards is common and it is a standard cut and paste speech. He almost always gets his way by frustrating and confusing Planning Board Members and Leaders of various communities. This meeting was special, because the canned lines of utopia were called out for the nonsense that they were. A special acknowledgment is warranted to Commissioner Joe Mitrecic who did not mince words. With the newly proposed development being advertised as “luxury townhomes,” he did not let Mr. Cropper get away with the fact that he was also promoting these

new units as “affordable housing.” This was met with rousing applause from the citizens in attendance. Furthermore, Mr. Cropper’s team actually had the audacity to claim that there would be less vehicular traffic in the new development if 88 units were allowed to be built instead of the 59 as presently approved. You read that right. A request to increase development by 29 additional units was claimed to result in reduced traffic. There is no line that these Developers will not cross to pedal their services. Thank Goodness common sense prevailed.

The Town of Ocean City should take note of what happened here. They need to learn that they are allowed to say no to Developers. This even includes Mr. Cropper. In Downtown Ocean City, we suffered the steamroll effects of the Cropper machine in his dealings with the Kyma Property that is currently being constructed. Although this project will destroy the adjacent property of Sunset Park, it was given countless variances to get underway. The Town caved on important items such as setbacks, parking space sizes and numbers, landscaping and more. And with each concession the Town gave to the Kyma, they continued to push the envelope for more. They would later come before the Board to seek the ability to close their “Bayside Boardwalk” to the public as they wished, and they successfully gained the right to permanently destroy the railroad trellis in Sunset Park so that fire apparatus could reach the Kyma’s higher floors. And even though the Kyma team got just about everything they were requesting, they still want more. They now wish to have the sidewalk in front of their property taken away from the public for at least two years while the construction is going on. So far, the Town has not allowed this request. Fortunately, Councilmember Jake Mitrecic, Son of Commissioner Joe Mitrecic, has seemed to take a page from his Dad’s playbook and has expressed concern with unreasonable requests by the Developer. A big thanks to both

Continued on Page 103

Mitrecic’s for looking out for the people and we remain hopeful that their ability to keep the Developers in check spreads to other Commissioners, Mayors and Councilmembers.

M. Scott Chismar Ocean City

Wind turbines have too many cons for Ocean City

Editor,

After reading the recent two letters embracing Wind Farms, I had to check to see if it was April Fool's Day.

Reid Detchon’s brilliant idea of wind farm boat tours is nothing short of laughable. After suggesting a parallel between these tours and Assateague excursions, Tiki Bay Cruises, etc., he offers almost no substantive facts.

I can't imagine anyone in their right mind planning a trip here to gawk at turbine blades that they probably saw on the highway while driving here.

Wind power isn’t economically viable. Although the level of offshore wind power is less volatile than landbased systems, its output is very volatile, as a result of the inconstancy of the wind speed. As a result, offshore wind needs to be cheaper than power from natural gas plants and nuclear-generated electricity to be economically viable. Instead, it's

more expensive and less reliable.

According to a DOE study of the potential for offshore wind energy, there are over 320,000 square miles of U.S. coastal water that could support approximately 2,000 gigawatts of capacity, more than the 1,100 gigawatts of electricity-generating capacity currently available in the U.S. However, the average capacity factor for off-shore wind is approximately 40 percent. This will impact the reliability of this potential source and limit its potential.

Wind turbines require regular maintenance and repairs using expensive cranes. Periodic cleaning and lubrication are necessary to prevent overheating and a subsequent fire hazard. This, of course means exorbitant use of fossil-fueled transportation from one installation to the next. Detchon lovingly refers to this as “the engineering feat of constructing, transporting and installing these enormous structures.”

Wind turbines need to be replaced after their lifetime of 15 years, with the blades winding up in a landfill.

At a wind farm in California's Altamont Pass, 182 birds were killed over a two-year period. The dead birds included five bald eagles and 114 other endangered species. This is just one of many other examples.

The fishing industry is also at risk, as the poles of the turbines, which are

sunk 80 feet into the seabed, disrupt the feeding and nursing grounds of valuable fish, including striped bass and summer flounder.

The National Air Traffic Controllers Association suggests the turbines present a hazard, calling them "a disaster waiting to happen.” I'm sure the Coast Guard takes a similar stance.

This won't help OC tourism, either. Fellow owners in our building that rent their units have noted that renters are very concerned about the view of wind farms.

And then there are the many of us that own beachfront property, with a potential eagle-eye view of these eyesores. Many families, like ours, have kept these homes for many years in the hope of passing them along to future generations. We want the view for our children and grandchildren to be as pristine as it was on day one.

More and more OC business signs are displaying opposition to wind farms.

Detchon’s title implicates a political objective, while Peter Ayers Wimbrow III’s reply offers nothing more than a petty, childish reference to our President.

Perhaps they should speak with a few Marine Biologists, including our daughter who are all vehemently opposed to this scam.

John Phillips Ocean City

Two county shops receive funding for healthy foods

Brian Shane Staff Writer

(July 31, 2026) A decades-old openair produce cooler at Food Rite in Snow Hill held some apples, a few lemons, and one watermelon this week. A curtain of wide, clear plastic strips hung across the front to help keep in the cold air.

It is one of the aging fixtures the store’s owners plan to replace with help from a $90,000 state-administered grant.

Food Rite and Ocean City Organics in West Ocean City will receive a combined $145,000 through Maryland’s new NourishMD program to expand their capacity to stock fresh food. Ocean City Organics was awarded $55,000.

The program is designed to expand access to fresh and healthy food in food deserts – places where residents have limited access to nutritious options.

The funding will pay primarily for refrigeration and food-storage equipment, improvements that owners of both stores said would allow them to keep more perishable products in stock. Neither store has received the money yet, pending additional paperwork and meetings with grant administrators.

Food Rite owners Gary Singh and By

See MD. Page 104

Md. program expands access to fresh foods

his brother-in-law, Raj Singh, will use their $90,000 grant for new refrigerated display cases, upgrades to a walk-in cooler, fresh produce bins, and improvements to the store’s SNAP and EBT checkout equipment.

The Singhs bought the grocery two years ago from former owner Tarak “TJ” Patel and have been steadily renovating the aging building. The morning after the Singhs bought the store, rain came through the roof, eventually forcing them to replace six layers of old roofing material.

Gary Singh said they have already invested close to $500,000 in the supermarket and expect to spend roughly that amount again during the next several months. The grant will cover only a portion of the planned work.

A new four-door meat cooler can cost between $45,000 and $50,000, he said.

“Every bit counts,” Singh said. “Pretty much between us, a little bit from the bank, and the grants is how we’re funding this operation right now.”

Singh said the improvements are intended to give Snow Hill residents a cleaner, more modern place to shop while expanding the selection of produce and other fresh foods.

Singh added that many Food Rite

customers depend on the store because they lack reliable transportation to larger stores. Some elderly customers walk or bicycle to the grocery store, while the nearest Walmart is about 20 miles away in Berlin.

“Definitely, there’s a lot of needs in this area,” he said.

At Ocean City Organics, sisters and co-owners Kristie Williams and Heather Layton said the store has maxed out its refrigerated storage for produce and other perishable foods.

“What you see is what you get,” Layton said. “There is no back storage. We get it, it’s on the shelves, and we have to wait until the next truck to replenish.”

They plan to put grant funds toward an expanded walk-in refrigerator and freezer, new upright refrigerators and freezers, and an upgraded checkout system.

Employees now weigh produce on a separate scale, manually enter the price, then walk to the register and enter it again. The grant will pay for a scale integrated into the point-ofsale system.

The sisters purchase food directly from several area growers, including Splendid Earth Farms and Delilah’s Farm in Berlin, Chesterfield Heirlooms in Pittsville, Underwood Acres in Stockton, and Herbs and Spice in Selbyville.

Deliveries of organic produce ar-

rive throughout the week, and some items stay fresh for only a few days. Williams said getting the additional equipment will allow the store to keep backup inventory rather than running out between deliveries.

An organic certification means food products are grown using no prohibited synthetic chemicals from pesticides, herbicides and fertilizers, and no GMOs, Williams said.

Layton said the new refrigerators and freezers represent large purchases the business otherwise would have made gradually.

“It’s gonna be like Christmas,” she said. “We’re so excited.”

NourishMD awarded $3.65 million to 44 organizations in 18 counties, with individual awards ranging from $25,000 to $150,000, the governor’s office announced this week.

Eligible businesses had to serve communities the state identified as having limited access to fresh food and devote at least 20 percent of their inventory or sales space to healthy food.

The program is funded with $2 million in state money and $1.65 million from the federal Rural Health Transformation Program. Maryland officials said it prioritizes businesses that accept federal nutrition benefits or need help adding that capability.

COMMUNITY BRIEFS

Bridge work to start Sept.

Worcester County Public Works plans to begin replacing the Hotel Road Bridge in Bishopville in September. To accommodate construction, Hotel Road will be closed at the bridge, with signed detour routes in place throughout the project. The roadway closure is expected to last

approximately 120 days.

The three-span timber-beam bridge is being replaced after receiving unsatisfactory sufficiency ratings during Worcester County's annual bridge inspection program. The project is eligible for funding through the Highway Bridge Program. A public comment period is now open, and residents are encouraged to submit

OBITUARIES

MARGARET A. WARFIELD

Ocean City

"A beautiful body perishes, but a work of art dies not." — Leonardo da Vinci.

Margaret "Peggy" Ann Warfield, 84, of Ocean City, passed away peacefully on Saturday, July 18, 2026, at the Macky & Pam Stansell House.

The morning after her passing, dawn broke over Ocean City, Maryland in a radiant cotton candy sky – an inspired collage of color, texture, and light layered with ribbons of bright pink and shredded striations of purple. That morning’s masterpiece was a canvas of thoughtful depth, loving devotion, and quiet de-

BUSINESS BRIEFS

Continued from Page 104

comments through August 10. Please direct comments regarding the bridge replacement project to Roads Superintendent Kevin Lynch at klynch@worcestermd.gov. For additional information, including detour routes and a complete project description, visit www.worcestermd.gov.

Public meetings planned

Worcester County Department of Emergency Services (DES) officials are updating the county’s Hazard Mitigation Plan and invite residents to help them identify the full range of natural and man-made hazards that could affect the Lower Eastern Shore and share ideas to reduce their impacts. DES will host four public meetings throughout Worcester County: Aug. 5 at the Pocomoke Community Center at 6 p.m.

Aug. 6 at the Ocean Pines Branch Library at 6 p.m.

Sept. 2 at the Snow Hill Volunteer Fire Company at 6 p.m.

Sept. 3 at the Berlin Branch Library at 6 p.m.

"Preparing for potential hazards begins by understanding residents’ con-

termination that felt reminiscent of one artist’s life work. Her family believes that sunrise was her final gift, one last glimpse of her loving light.

Peggy was born on October 3, 1941, in Baltimore, Maryland, the daughter of the late Margaret (Halverson) Hoey and John Ellsworth "East" Hoey. She earned her Bachelor of Arts in English from McDaniel College (Western Maryland College) and taught high school English in Anaheim, California, and in Worcester County, Maryland.

While at McDaniel, she met her future husband and lifelong dance partner, Robert E. "Bob" Warfield Sr. The couple married and moved to Ocean City almost 50 years ago, where they built a blessed life centered on family and friends. Their home was the epi-

Continued on Page 106

cerns," Assistant Chief of Emergency Management Katy Vieira said. "Residents know their communities best, and their input will help us identify local risks, prioritize mitigation strategies, and develop an updated plan that best reflects Worcester County’s needs and establishes the building blocks necessary to ensure a more resilient future."

The updated plan will include a comprehensive risk assessment focused on natural and man-made hazards, critical infrastructure, and other community assets. Public feedback will help ensure the Hazard Mitigation Plan reflects community priorities while protecting lives, property, and critical infrastructure. The information gathered during the meetings will be incorporated into the updated plan.

DES is developing the Hazard Mitigation Plan in partnership with CHLOETA, a consulting firm specializing in emergency management planning. The plan will help Worcester County identify longterm strategies to reduce the impacts of natural and man-made hazards on people, property, and the environment.

For more information on the Hazardous Mitigation Plan process and how you can participate, please contact Viera at 410-632-3080, ext. 1916.

center of activity - hosting work parties, book clubs, birthday parties, family reunions, and abundant crab feasts. All who visited felt welcome due in part to Peggy’s warmth and welcoming spirit. Guests often enjoyed a cup of tea with Peggy on the screened porch overlooking the tapestry of color in her garden and the marsh beyond.

A devoted mother and grandmother, Peggy poured her greatest gifts into raising her children, Claire and Rob, and later into loving her grandchildren, Maddie, Emerson, and Oakes well. With quiet elegance and abundant joy, she made her family and friends feel heard and seen, and she taught the importance of contented gratitude, honest integrity, compassion, and grace.

An accomplished artist, Peggy was galleried at the Worcester County

Arts Council's Gallery as a Co-Op Artist and Member and at Gallery

One in Ocean View, Del. With an eye for composition, she began in watercolor and became an award-winning collagist and published author. Peggy’s view of the world was such a gift when translated to her canvas.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her brother, Ronald E. Hoey Sr.; and her loving husband of 47 years, Robert E. (Bob) Warfield Sr.

Peggy is survived by her daughter, Claire (Warfield) Reynolds, and her husband, Mike, of Berlin, Maryland; her son, Robert "Rob" E. Warfield Jr., and his wife, Sarrin, of Greenville, South Carolina; three beloved grandchildren, Maddie, Emerson, and Oakes; her sister-in-law, Ann Irene Hoey; nieces Susan Hoey Auvil and Wendy Hoey Otto; nephew Ronald E. Hoey Jr.; and her faithful and watchful grand dog, Reggie.

In keeping with her wishes, cremation was chosen, and a private family service will be held. The family encourages all who knew Peggy to honor her in a way that is special to them.

Letters of condolence may be sent via www.burbagefuneralhome.com. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Coastal Hospice Stansell House, 1500 Ocean Parkway, Ocean Pines, Md. 21811, or the Art League of Ocean City, 502 94th Street, Ocean City, Md. 21842.

LOIS K. BARSTIS

Ocean City

Lois K. Barstis, age 77, passed away on July 22, 2026, in Ocean City, Maryland. Born on March 11, 1949, in Wilkinsburg, Pennsylvania, she was the daughter of Margaret (Lesko) Kazusky and the late Stephen M. Kazusky.

Lois was active, involved, and supportive her entire life. She attended Trafford High School in Trafford, PA (where she met George) and was a cheerleader, member of the National Honor Society, and the pianist for the school chorus. Upon completion of studies at the Wheeler School in Pittsburgh, she was an assistant man-

ager of a drug store chain until her marriage to George. Throughout their 55 years together, she supported George’s Army career by volunteering for various clubs and organizations at their many assignments. Following their Army journey, Lois actively supported the PTA at her children’s school, serving multiple years as PTA President. She taught Religious Education at her home parish in Derwood, MD and organized “B-Tweens” for the not-yet teenage group.

Supporting her children even included bartending at the Wedge Bar and Grill in West OC managed by her son Steve. As an avid golfer until a back injury sidelined her, she volunteered with the EWGA ladies golf group. Her final contributions included the Ocean City American Legion Auxiliary and American Legion Riders where she served in various volunteer positions and could always be counted on to support any activity sponsored by the Legion family.

In addition to her mother, Lois is survived by her beloved husbandGeorge Barstis; her children –Michael S. Barstis (Celeste) and Stephen A. Barstis; her brother –Thomas Kazusky (Toni); and her grandchildren – Walker Barstis and Vivienne Barstis.

A viewing is scheduled for August 5, 2026 from 9am – 10 am at The Burbage Funeral Home in Berlin, MD

OBITUARIES

followed by a 12:00 mass at St Luke’s Catholic Church in Ocean City, Maryland. A celebration of Lois’s life will follow at 2pm at the Ocean City American Legion. 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.

EDWARD HENRY WISCH

Berlin

Edward Henry Wisch, beloved husband, father, grandfather, greatgrandfather, veteran, and community leader, passed away on May 31, 2026, at the age of 95.

He was born in Baltimore, Maryland on April 29, 1931 and was the son of the late Walter J. and Maria Konradi Wisch. Ed graduated from St. Paul’s School for Boys in 1950, where he was recognized as Athlete of the Year and lettered in basketball, football, and lacrosse.

Edward proudly served his country as a Marine Sergeant during the Korean Conflict, carrying a lifelong commitment to service, honor, and dedication. Following his military service, he studied engineering at Johns Hopkins University.

Ed’s career began in sales with Ellicott T. Brandt. He went on to build successful manufacturing companies in New Oxford, Pennsylvania, and later in Illinois, producing fireproof building columns.

He and Beverly made their homes in Baltimore and Howard County, Maryland; Hanover, Pennsylvania; and Naperville, Illinois. In 1984, they made the decision to permanently relocate to their beach house in Ocean Pines, Maryland.

After moving to the Eastern Shore, Ed obtained his real estate license and embarked on a second career in real estate and construction consulting, earning the respect of colleagues and clients alike through his knowledge, integrity, and strong work ethic.

Together with Beverly, he helped establish The Wisch Team, a family business that continues to serve the community today. He was a member of Coastal Association of REALTORS®, Maryland REALTORS®, Eastern Shore Association of REALTORS®, Virginia REALTORS® and National Association of REALTORS® during his real estate career.

A devoted family man, Edward was the proud father of two children, grandfather of eight, and greatgrandfather of nine. His greatest joy was time spent with his family. He especially loved boating and fishing with his children and grandchildren, creating countless memories on the water.

He was also a faithful supporter of his grandchildren’s sporting events and activities, rarely missing an op-

portunity to cheer them on. His family was the center of his life, and their lives were enriched by his guidance, wisdom, and unwavering love.

Ed was also an active member of the Lions Club, dedicating countless hours to serving his community and helping others.

His commitment to civic service reflected the generosity and compassion that defined his life. In 2007 he was he was honored with the Melvin Jones Fellow recognition for “Dedicated Humanitarian Service” from Lions Club International.

Edward will be remembered for his strength, kindness, sense of duty, and the lasting impact he made on his family, friends, and community. His legacy of service and love will continue through the many lives he touched.

He is survived by his wife of 73 years, Beverly June (Teal) Wisch; his daughter, Wendy Wisch of Ocean Pines, Maryland; and his son, Brent Wisch (Mary) of Parrish, Florida. He was preceded in death by his older brother, Walter Wisch.

Known affectionately as “Grandad,” he is also survived by his grandchildren: Heather Ohrel (Les), Matthew O’Grady (Alicia Cagnoli), Jenna Randazzo (Jay), Mackenzie O’Grady, Jaclyn O’Grady (Al Wilson), Zachary O’Grady (Brigid), Julia Wilson (Spencer), and Conner O’Grady;

and his great-grandchildren: Riley, Savannah, and Madeline Ohrel; Grace, Sadie and Avery Randazzo; Ryan Maxwell; Alexandria Wilson; and Lucas Wilson.

Family and friends will celebrate Ed’s life on Aug. 1, 2026, at The Community Church at Ocean Pines, 11227 Racetrack Rd, Berlin, MD 21811 Visitation will begin at 10 a.m., followed by a service at 11 a.m.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Edward’s memory may be made to the Worcester County Veterans Memorial at Ocean Pines, P.O. Box 1576, Ocean Pines, Md. 21811 or the Ocean City Lions Club, P.O. Box 71, Ocean City, Md. 21843.

Condolences may be sent by visiting www.bishophastingsfh.com

LAWRENCE F. TYNAN JR. Quantico

Lawrence F. Tynan Jr. (Larry) passed away peacefully after an extended illness on July 15, 2026 in Quantico, Maryland. He was born in White Plains, New York on April 26, 1956, to Lawrence F. and Patricia (Dickens) Tynan. He graduated from Northwood University in Midland, Michigan with a bachelor's degree in Automotive

Business. He went on working alongside his father in their Chevrolet dealership, Towne Chevrolet, in Middletown, New Jersey. He met his wife, Jennifer, and they relocated to Hudson, New York, where he owned and operated Hudson Valley Volkswagen.

After years of upstate N. Y. cold temperatures, he moved to Wicomico County, Maryland. He worked as a manager at Horner Honda in Salisbury, until the business closed. He then worked in various sales related capacities full- time and parttime upon retiring. Spare time was spent outdoors with his wife hiking, at the beach, and he could be found at a car show.

In addition to his wife Jennifer, he leaves behind his sister Tracy L. Tynan, her children Alex Manso and Jacqueline T. Hall (Griffin). Close to his heart was his sister-in-law Amy Ekdahl and his niece Quinn and nephew Declan, as well as many uncles, aunts, cousins, sister/brother inlaws, nieces and nephews, friends, and his beloved dog Finley. He was pre-deceased by his parents Lawrence F. Sr. and Patricia Tynan, his sister Denise, and brother Stephen.

A private memorial will occur at a later date. In lieu of flowers, please donate to Coastal Hospice, P.O. box 1733, Salisbury, MD 21802-1733.

$1,945.

team a payout of $53,880,

Big eye tuna, stringer give MJ’s Classic win

After slow start on Friday, weekend sees conditions improve for Big Fish Classic

(July 31, 2026) The 13th Annual Huk Big Fish Classic saw 54 boats competing for a total purse of $694,000. This year’s turnout and payouts were down from last year when 89 boats competed for $1.2 million.

Ocean conditions limited day one to just 13 boats, followed by all 54 boats venturing out on Saturday. On the final day, Sunday, 41 boats competed offshore.

As the event’s name implies, the tournament’s payouts are geared around the size and weight of the fish. The top three biggest catches brought

home significant prize money. Winning $256,681 was the team of the MJ’s for its 187-pound bigeye. A 92pound yellowfin for the Reel Estate landed $29,848. A payout of $53,880 went to the El Jefe for its 86.5-pound bluefin.

The following is a look at full results listed in order of finish including fish species and size and dollar payout.

Basic Entry-Division A, Heaviest Fish-Purse $20,000: MJ’s, big eye, 187 pounds, $15,000; Reel Estate, yellowfin, 92 pounds, $3,500; and El Jefe, bluefin, 86.5 pounds, $1,500.

Division B1, Heaviest Fish-Purse $15,300: First place, MJ’s, big eye, 187 pounds, $9,945; Reel Estate, yellowfin, 92 pounds, $3,825; Husevo, bluefin, 84.5 pounds, $1,530.

Division B2, Heaviest Fish-Purse $28,800: First place, MJ’s, big eye, 187 pounds, $18,720; El Jefe, bluefin, 86.5 pounds, $7,200; MJ’s, yellowfin, 83 pounds, $2,880.

Division B3, Heaviest Fish-Winner

Take All $35,100: El Jefe, bluefin, 86.5 pounds, $35,100.

Division B4, Heaviest Fish-Winner

Take All $81,000: MJ’s, big eye, 187 pounds, $81,000.

Division C1, Heaviest Fish Stringer- Purse $14,800: MJ’s, 392 pounds, $9,653; Little Limits, 284.5 pounds, $3,713; Instigator, 275.5 pounds, $1,485.

Division C2, Heavist Fish StringerPurse $27,000: MJ’s, 392 pounds, $17,550; Little Limits, 284.5 pounds, $6,750; Instigator, 275.5 pounds, $2,700.

Division C3, Heaviest Fish Stringer-Winner Take All $22,500: MJ’s, 392 pounds, $22,500.

Division D1, Heaviest BillfishPurse $12,150: Godzilla, white marlin, 72 pounds, $12,150.

Division D2-Heaviest BillfishPurse $20,700: Godzilla, white marlin, 72 pounds, $20,700

Division D3-Heaviest SwordfishPurse $13,500: Godzilla, winner of D2, $13,500.

Division D4-Heaviest SwordfishPurse $14,400: Godzilla, winner of D2, $14,400.

Division D6-Heaviest White Marlin-Purse $9,000: Godzilla, white marlin, 72 pounds, $9,000.

Division D7-Heaviest White Marlin-Purse $17,100: Godzilla, white

BERLIN LITTLE LEAGUE WINS MD. CHAMPIONSHIP

Berlin Little League’s 10-12year-old team, winner of the District 8 region, captured the 10-12 Maryland Little League Baseball State Championship last week in Hagerstown. Berlin went undefeated in the state tournament and beat South Baltimore, 6-2, in the state championship game. Jonah Isett secured the mound win, striking out five in 4 2/3 innings. Isett also had a tworun double. Cole Brown had two hits, including a double. Also driving in runs for Berlin were Jackson Howell, Gus VanKlompenberg and Miles Abbott. Next up for the team is the Mid-Atlantic Regionals set for Aug. 9 in Bristol, Connecticut. The winner of the regional tournament advances to the Little League World Series in Williamsport, Pennsylvania. SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH

Big Fish Classic pays out nearly $700,000

marlin, 72 pounds, $17,100.

Division D8-Heaviest White Marlin-Purse $27,000: Godzilla, white marlin, 72 pounds, $27,000.

Division E1, Marlin Release-Purse

$10,800: Boss Hogg, white marlin, 1,300 points, $7,020; Godzilla/Billfisher, marlin, 1,100 points, each, $2,700; Godzilla/Billfisher, marlin, 1,100 points, each, $1,080.

Division E2, Marlin Release-Purse

$22,500: Boss Hogg, white marlin, 1,300 points, $14,625; Billfisher, marlin, 1,100 points, $5,625; Reel Chaos, white marlin, 1,000 points, $2,250.

Division E3, Ladies Marlin Release-Purse $1,800; High Yield, marlin, 200 points, $1,800 Division F1, Heaviest Yellowfin-

Purse $27,900: Reel Estate, yellowfin, 92 pounds, $18,135; Instigator, yellowfin, 74 pounds, $6,975; Instigator, yellowfin, 70 pounds, $2,790.

Division F2, Heaviest YellowfinWinner Take All $18,900: Instigator, 74 pounds, $18,900.

Division F3, Heaviest Tuna-Purse

$17,550: MJ’s, big eye, 187 pounds, $11,408; Reel Estate, yellowfin, 92 pounds, $4,388; Rel Jefe, bluefin, 86.5 pounds, $1,755.

Division F4: Heaviest Tuna-Purse

$24,300: MJ’s, big eye, 187 pounds, $15,795; El Jefe, bluefin, 86.5 pounds, $6,075; MJ’s, yellowfin, 83 pounds, $2,430.

Division F5: Heaviest Tuna-Winner Take All $45,000: MJ’s, big eye, 187 pounds, $45,000.

Division F6: Heaviest Tuna Stringer-Purse $22,500: Little Limits, 284.5 pounds, $14,625; Instigator, 275.5 pounds, $5,625; El Jefe, 213 pounds, $2,250.

Division G1: Heaviest DolphinPurse $18,450: Water Damage, dolphin, 29 pounds, $11,993; Restless Lady I/II, dolphin, 23 pounds, $4,613; Restless Lady I/II, dolphin, 23 pounds, $4,613.

Division G2: Heaviest WahooPurse $13,500: Water Damage, $13,500.

Division H: Big Fish Daily: Day One, Canyon Blues, bluefin, 73.5 pounds, $4,800; Day Two, Turn Me Loose, bluefin, 75.5 pounds, $4,800; Day Three, MJ’s, big eye, 187 pounds, $4,800.

Division I1: Heaviest Fish, Purse$10,800: Little Limits, bluefin, 77.5 pounds, $7,020; Tom Cat, bluefin, 74 pounds, $2,700; Canyon Blues, bluefin, 73.5 pounds, $1,080.

Division I2: Heaviest Fish, Winner Take All $7,200: Little Limits, bluefin, 77.5 pounds, $7,200.

Division I3: Heaviest StringerPurse $8,100: Little Limits, 284.5 pounds, $5,265; Shore Jack, 146,5 pounds, $2,025; Tom Cat, 121.5 pounds, $810.

Division I4: Heaviest BillfishPurse, $2,700: Little Limits, $2,700 Division I5: Heaviest Tuna-Purse $9,000: Little Limits, bluefin, 77.5 pounds, $5,850; Tom Cat, bluefin, 74 pounds, $2,250; Canyon Blues, bluefin, 73.5 pounds, $900.