Issuu

WE BUY GOLD & SILVER We pay the HIGHEST Prices for Your GOLD Kozma Jewelry & Coins

D.A. KOZMA Jewelers RT 50 & 611 in the FOOD LION SHOPPING CENTER WOC 410-213-7505 • DAKOZMAJEWELERS.COM

See our ad on page 6.

OC Today-Dispatch SEPTEMBER 18, 2026

STUBBORNLY LOCAL, EQUALLY INDEPENDENT

PRICELESS

County hikes its reserves Last month, the county commissioners talked about giving the county’s rainy day millions back to taxpayers. Now they’re putting it in their reserve fund. — PAGE 14 PHOTO COURTESY OF OC ROCK AND RIDE

GREAT CROWD Reports are last week’s Ocean City Rock and Ride motorcycle rally did what its organizer, Kickin Events, wanted it to do, which was bring back the big business biking bonanza to provide an economic punch for area businesses in the shoulder season.

Stiff resistence? Spreading composted human remains to nourish woodland should not be allowed, commissioners say, as they go to court in attempt to overturn county’s Board of Zoning Appeals decision — PAGE 18

Bus app apt to make fare paying easier That’s the theory as Ocean City seeks to add cashless option for bus passengers. — PAGE 22

PAGE 2

OC Today-Dispatch

SEPTEMBER 18, 2026

OC Today-Dispatch

West OC hotel property eyed for new cannabis dispensary Licensee considers Francis Scott Key site as approvals move forward in Pocomoke

cials in March. He resumed the discussion Aug. 25 and exchanged emails with the county about the proposal before and after the Pocomoke Planning Commission’s vote. By Brian Shane Kristen Tremblay, then Worcester Staff Writer County’s zoning administrator, told (Sept. 18, 2026) The company li- Shata that cannabis dispensaries are censed to open Worcester County’s allowed by special exception in the third cannabis dispensary was ex- property’s C-2 commercial zoning ploring a potential location in West district. Ocean City as recently as late August Tremblay subsequently left the while simultaneously moving toward county to become Pocomoke City’s site plan approval for a dispensary in planning director and has overseen Pocomoke City. Guru Ventures’ application there. Even as Pocomoke City officials County correspondence advised advanced its plans for a dispensary in Shata that new construction would a long-vacant former restaurant on be subject to a 100-foot setback along Route 13, Guru Ventures was consid- Route 50 and could not cause the exering a location on the Francis Scott isting hotel to fall out of compliance Key property along Route 50, accord- with county code. ing to emails provided by the county The county also identified a potento OC Today-Dispatch. tial conflict with separation requireThe company’s state-issued li- ments involving a place of worship at cense authorizes 9945 Elm Street, one dispensary in the location associWorcester County. ated with Ahavat ‘Should those issues be It could not operate Shalom Synagogue. both locations Shata has disfully addressed, the Board under that license. puted whether the When reached of Zoning Appeals would then Elm Street location for comment, li- have the authority to consider near the hotel propcensee Shreif Shata erty still functions approval of the use as a said the hotel site as a place of worspecial exception.’ had been “formally ship. denied,” but deIn an Aug. 28 Planning Director clined to identify email, he said the Jennifer Keener who issued the despace was being nial or provide a used as a dining copy of any written and banquet area decision. and “is not operating as a church or “Old news, can’t be done with the place of worship.” He offered to property,” Shata said in a text mes- arrange a site visit for county staff. sage. Guru Ventures faced a similar Worcester County officials, how- issue in Pocomoke, where the proever, described their review as lim- posed dispensary sits about 325 feet ited and left open a potential route to from New Beginnings Outreach Minapproval. istries. Planning Director Jennifer Keener Pocomoke City law requires said Guru Ventures’ initial request cannabis businesses to remain at was general and did not include spe- least 500 feet from churches, schools, cific development plans. The county childcare centers, playgrounds, and therefore focused on identifying a po- parks. Its Board of Zoning Appeals tential conflict with separation-dis- voted 3–1 on July 1 to waive that retance requirements. quirement for Guru Ventures. “Should those issues be fully adSeparate emails document a twodressed, the Board of Zoning Appeals building redevelopment concept would then have the authority to con- being pursued at the hotel property sider approval of the use as a special at the same time as Shata’s dispenexception,” Keener said. sary inquiry. Pocomoke City’s Planning ComCivil engineer Ronnie Carpenter mission voted unanimously Aug. 27 emailed the county Aug. 28 seeking a to recommend approval of Guru Ven- pre-application meeting. He said the tures’ site plan. Municipal officials landowner wanted to demolish sevsay the proposal goes next to the eral existing structures, construct town council for a final site plan vote. two commercial buildings, and exEmails between Shata and pand parking. Worcester County planning officials The concept plan shows proposed identify the Francis Scott Key hotel buildings of approximately 8,500 property as a proposed dispensary lo- and 8,050 square feet along Route cation and ask the county to apply 50, but neither the plans nor Carpencannabis-specific zoning rules. ter’s correspondence identifies the Shata first raised the West Ocean intended uses or mentions Guru VenCity hotel property with county offiSee EMAILS Page 6

PAGE 3

Our $10 Breakfast Menu is Back! Mon-Thur 8-11am

BREAKFAST

HAPPY HOUR SPECIALS

Monday-Thursday 8-11am NEW! Friday-Sunday 8am-Noon

Monday-Friday Drinks Noon-6pm Food 3-6pm .............................. SUNDAY NFL SPECIALS 1-7PM

HHH ENTERTAINMENT HHH BRIAN BISHOP KARAOKE W/ CMILLER JACK BANNON WEDNESDAY, 9/23 TUESDAY, 9/22 FRIDAY, 9/18 5PM 5-8PM 7PM CHECK OUR FACEBOOK PAGE EVERY DAY! ONLINE ORDERING AVAILABLE CCFBAYSIDE.COM

SEPTEMBER SPECIALS — 11am to close —

MELT DOWN MONDAY: Tuna, Brisket, Pulled Pork or Shaved Prime Rib w/ Chips $15 each ..............................

SMOKIN’ WEDNESDAY: From the Dinner Menu Smoked Baby Back Ribs, Brisket or Meat Lovers Smokin’ Combo 20% off

CRABBY TUESDAY: Crabby Melt w/ Chips, Crabcake Quesadilla, Crabby Mac n’ Cheese, Crabcake Nachos $20 each ..............................

THIRTY THURSDAY: Three Courses for $30

• Soup of the Day or Salad • Brisket, Shrimp Pasta or Stuffed Flounder • Bread pudding or Brownie & scoop of ice cream Dine in with beverage purchase. Subject to change/availability

37314 LIGHTHOUSE ROAD • RT. 54, SELBYVILLE, DE • 302-988-5000/302-993-6959

OC Today-Dispatch

PAGE 4

SEPTEMBER 18, 2026

American & Regional Dining With A Global Influence 60TH STREET IN THE BAY

fagers.com 410-524-5500

Photo by Sarah Zaia

OC Today-Dispatch

SEPTEMBER 18, 2026

PAGE 5

OVER $56,500 MILLION IN SETTLED REAL ESTATE IN 2025 12207 Coastal Hwy. Suite D • Ocean City, MD 21842 • 410-524-1203

NANCY REITHER-SMITH

#1 AGENT COLDWELL BANKER Realty Sales Volume & Closed Units Ocean City and DE Beaches

Realtor® • Licensed in MD & DE Office: 410-524-1203

Cell: 410-603-5050

Email: nreither@cbmove.com

TOP LISTING AGENT FOR COLDWELL BANKER REALTY OCEAN CITY & DE BEACHES 4 BR/3 BA DIRECT OCEAN FRONT PENTHOUSE UNIT!!!

NEW CONSTRUCTION 4 BR, 3.5 BA HOME

OPEN HOUSE SATURDAY 12:30-2:30PM

OPEN HOUSE SATURDAY NOON-2PM

CE PRIANGE! CH

6201 COASTAL HWY UNIT 806 CALYPSO • OCEAN CITY NOW $1,520,000

PRICE REDUCED $280K!

Own the top of the world in Ocean City. Introducing the premier penthouse, Unit 806—a breathtaking 4bedroom, 3-bath direct oceanfront masterpiece. This is the Southeast corner end unit. This is the best view in the building! Enjoy sweeping, unobstructed panoramic views stretching all the way to the Boardwalk and Ferris wheel. Watch stunning sunrises over the ocean and sunsets from your private porch. MDW02037456

75 KING RICHARD RD • OCEAN PINES NOW $814,900 Stunning New Construction in Ocean Pines – Move-In Ready! Built by RBR Homes LLC, this exceptional 4-bedroom, 3.5-bathroom home has just been completed and is ready for immediate occupancy in the desirable Tipple Crown section of Ocean Pines. From the moment you arrive, you'll appreciate the home's charming coastal character, highlighted by beautiful blue siding and an inviting front porch. Inside, thoughtful design, high-end finishes, and exceptional craftsmanship are evident throughout. MDWO203878

OCEANFRONT 1 BR, 1.5 BA CONDO

BAYSIDE 4 BR, 2.5 BA TOWNHOME with 3-CAR

2 BR/2 BA with BOAT SLIP

OPEN HOUSE MONDAY 11AM-1PM

OPEN HOUSE FRIDAY NOON-2PM

OPEN HOUSE SUNDAY 11AM-1PM

T ! JUS ED T S LI

4 93RD ST #503 WEST WINDS OCEAN CITY $439,900

W NE ING! T S I L

306 14TH STREET UNIT A OCEAN CITY OFFERED AT $899,900 Welcome to this spacious 3,316-SF Ocean City townhome offering an ideal combination of comfort, convenience, and a quiet setting just minutes from the beach, Boardwalk, shopping, dining, and all the excitement Ocean City has to offer. This beautifully maintained 4-bedroom, 2.5-bath home features a large three-car garage, multiple balconies, and plenty of living space for family and friends. MDWO2040606

RARELY AVAILABLE! Topfloor southeast corner unit in the highly desirable West Winds condominium, this exceptional 1-bedroom, 1.5-bath condo offers unobstructed Southern Ocean views stretching down the beach. Proven rental income makes this a great investment with a 38k yearly average, while the top-floor southeast corner location and sweeping ocean views make it a special place to call your own. Sold fully furnished and the condo fee includes cable. MDWO2041168 OCEAN BLOCK 2 BR, 2 BA CONDO

2 BR, 2 BA CONDO STEPS to NORTHSIDE PARK!

OPEN HOUSE FRIDAY NOON-2PM

OPEN HOUSE SATURDAY 10AM-NOON & SUNDAY NOON-2PM

W NE ING! T LIS

12702 COASTAL HWY #202 • BALI • OCEAN CITY $399,900

Exquisite 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom unit offers a luxurious lifestyle that seamlessly blends comfort and sophistication. With a major spa like renovation that was completed in 2025, this condo is poised to elevate your living experience to new heights. Step inside to discover an open floor plan that invites natural light to dance across the upgraded countertops and stylish finishes. MDWO2041068

PRIME WATERFRONT LOT

12301 JAMAICA AVE #351N • HIDDEN HARBOUR III OCEAN CITY • $499,900 Welcome to this beautifully updated top-floor 2-bedroom, 2-bath waterfront condo in Hidden Harbour III, complete with Boat Slip #98. Ideally located just a few blocks from the beach and within walking distance of Northside Park, this fully furnished property is move-in ready and waiting for you to start enjoying the coastal lifestyle. MDWO2039360 MOVE-IN READY TOP FLOOR CONDO

424 LARK LANE UNIT #E303 OCEAN CITY $264,000

104 125TH ST #203 LORELEI II OCEAN CITY $439,900

Beautifully mainBeautifully furtained 2BR/1BA nished 2-bedroom, top-floor condo 2-bath condo overlocated just minutes from the beach looking the pool and located just steps from Northside and boardwalk! This move-in-ready Park! Priced to sell below recent compaunit features a bright and spacious rable sales in the building, this condo open floor plan that is perfect for enterpresents an excellent opportunity for a taining. Being on the top floor provides added privacy and peace quick sale. Sold fully furnished. with no neighbors overhead. MDWO2037970 MDWO2040518 COMMERCIAL

RENOVATED 3 BR, 2 BA SINGLE FAMILY HOME

WATERFRONT 3 BR, 2 BA HOME

302 FRANKLIN AVE BERLIN • $410,000

SOUTHHAMPTON DR. LOT 46 LIGHTHOUSE SOUND BISHOPVILLE • $449,000

10312 THIRTY KNOTS LN GLEN RIDDLE • BERLIN NOW $1,090,000

Build Your Dream Home! A rare opportunity has just become available in the prestigious Lighthouse Sound community! This expansive 20,237.00 sq ft lot - one of the largest in the neighborhood - offers the perfect setting to build your dream home. Ideally situated on the corner of Fox Ridge and Southampton Drive. Enjoy a lifestyle of luxury and leisure in a community recognized by Golf Magazine as one of the Top 100 golf courses in the country. Lighthouse Sound has an elegant clubhouse and a highly rated restaurant - perfect for relaxing after a round of golf. MDWO2034644

Rare Opportunity: Build Your Dream Home on a Prime Waterfront Lot! Seize the chance to create your ideal residence on this exceptional 0.73-acre waterfront lot, nestled on an expansive sandy beach within the highly sought-after gated community of Glen Riddle. Enjoy panoramic views of the Ocean City skyline, and breathtaking vistas of Turville and Hearing Creek, as well as the Assawoman Bay. Glen Riddle is an amenity-rich community. MDWO2023166

32474 LIGHTHOUSE RD SELBYVILLE, DE • $5,900,000 Prime commercial location in Selbyville of 8.4 acres. This is a rare commercial development opportunity on the busy intersection of Lighthouse Sound Rd. (Route 54) and Hudson Rd. There are already many existing new homes surrounding this property and more than 3,200 additional homes are coming soon. This is the perfect location for a shopping center, multiple smaller retail businesses, and/or medical or other professional offices to serve these homes and the entire Selbyville, Bayside, Fenwick, Ocean City area. The Seller will finance up to 70% of the purchase price at 1 percent below the current prime lending rate for up to 5 years. The property is located 8 miles from the beach! DESU2044978

131 OLD WHARF RD CAINE KEYS OCEAN CITY 302 $899,900

Welcome to Franklin Ave, a beautifully renovated 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom single-family home in the heart of downtown Berlin. This home is move-in ready and perfect as a primary residence, vacation getaway, or investment property. MDWO2039372

Experience the best of coastal waterfront living in this charming 3BR/2BA home situated on a spacious 7,500-square-foot lot in the desirable Caine Keys community. Just a short stroll to the beach, this exceptional property offers the perfect combination of waterfront living, outdoor recreation, and coastal convenience. MDWO2039952

DIRECT OCEANFRONT 2 BR, 2BA CONDO

OCEAN BLOCK 3 BR/3 BA CONDO

9900 COASTAL HWY #1409 • CENTURY I OCEAN CITY $589,900

13700 COASTAL HIGHWAY UNIT 202 OCEAN CITY NOW $759,900

Welcome to this stunning 2BR/2BA direct oceanfront, two-level condominium in the sought-after Century Building. Perfectly positioned on the 14th floor, this spacious residence offers breathtaking panoramic views up and down the beach, along with spectacular bay sunsets. MDWO2039648

Stunning OceanBlock 3BR/3BA Condo in Seaside Retreat – North Ocean City Experience coastal luxury in this beautifully maintained 3-bedroom, 3bathroom condo in the highly soughtafter Seaside Retreat of North Ocean City. MDWO2039110

COMMERCIAL

MOBILE HOME PARKS FENWICK ISLAND, DE OFFERED AT $2.1 MILLION EACH $4.2 MILLION TOTAL This is a prime location in sought-after Fenwick Island! This is an extremely rare opportunity to purchase C-1 commercial land in Fenwick Island DE close to the beach and Atlantic Ocean. A salty breeze carries the scent of the Atlantic Ocean as you stand on these 4 commercially zoned C1 parcels in Fenwick Island. DESU2059932

The property information herein is derived from various sources that may include, but not be limited to, county records and the Multiple Listing Service and it may include approximations. Although the information is believed to be accurate, it is not warranted and you should not rely upon it without personal veriﬁcation. Real estate 2026 Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. All Rights Reserved. Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act. Operated by agents afﬁliated with Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage are independent contractor agents and are not employees of the Company. ©2015 a subsidiary of NRT LLC. Coldwell Banker, the Coldwell Banker logo, Coldwell Banker Previews International and the Previews logo are registered and unregistered service marks owned by Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. 10771BALT_07/15

LOYAL SERVICE. GOLDEN RESULTS!

PAGE 6

OC Today-Dispatch

SEPTEMBER 18, 2026

Emails pitch plan for new buildings on hotel property

We specialize in creating custom-designed jewelry that is as unique as you are. Create a custom piece, update or repair your current jewelry, or explore our distinctive sparkly inventory.

Continued from Page 3 tures. The property is owned by FSK LLC, which acquired the hotel and the surrounding grounds for $11.7 million in March 2020, according to state records. On Aug. 31, Worcester County Development Review Specialist Zachary White asked Carpenter where the new construction would occur and whether a use had been specified for either building. Carpenter responded the following morning with what he called “one of the many concepts we have considered.” He identified three existing buildings that would be demolished – one motel building on the eastern side of the property and two cottages on the western side – but did not state the intended uses of the replacements. Emails show Carpenter met in person with county development review staff Sept. 4 and afterward sent them a concept plan, boundary survey, and tree location plan. County environmental staff later advised him that the redevelopment would be subject to forest-conservation requirements. Shata’s effort to bring a third dispensary to Worcester County dates to early 2025. At first, he wanted his store in Ocean City and entered into a lease agreement to open at the Phillips Square shopping center. But resort zoning officials in March 2025 ruled that the proposed dispensary could not legally operate at the 21st Street location. The conflicts included its proximity to residential properties and the town’s determination that the beach qualified as a public park under the setback law. Shata challenged the decision before the town’s Board of Zoning Appeals, which upheld it. A subsequent court appeal was dismissed without deciding whether the town’s zoning interpretation was correct.

Inside this week

9936 STEPHEN DECATUR HWY • RT 50 & 611 FOOD LION SHOPPING CENTER WOC 410-213-7505 • KOZMAJEWELERS.COM Lic. No. 2294

Calendar ..............................52 Classifieds ..........................55 Crossword ............................50 Dining Guide ........................38 Editorial/Letters ..................78 Entertainment ......................40 Horoscope ............................51 Obituaries ............................82 Police/Crime........................23 Public Notices ......................59 Sports ..................................85

SEPTEMBER 18, 2026

OC Today-Dispatch

PAGE 7

OC Today-Dispatch

PAGE 8

SEPTEMBER 18, 2026

LUNCH & DINNER AT DUMSER’S DAIRYLAND NORTH, 12305 COASTAL HWY. With Homemade Sodas & Other Soda Fountain Treats

A Family Tradition For 85 Years!

BOARDWALK: CAROLINE STREET, WICOMICO STREET & SOUTH DIVISION STREET

4901 COASTAL HWY.

WEST OC: CORNER OF ROUTE 611 & ROUTE 50 EAST

ICE CREAM MADE DAILY IN OCEAN CITY, MARYLAND Ice Cream Our Specialty. Stop By Any Dumser’s Location For A Wide Variety Of Homemade Ice Cream, Milkshakes, Sundaes, Floats And Much More.

SEPTEMBER 18, 2026

OC Today-Dispatch

PAGE 9

PAGE 10

OC Today-Dispatch

SEPTEMBER 18, 2026

OVERTIME REPORT This week, Internal Auditor Karin Scott presented the OC Council with overtime hours worked in the last quarter. SUBMITTED PHOTO/ OC TODAY-DISPATCH

Overtime hours decrease for police, up for fire company OC officials say absent of part-time workers to blame for fire department’s report

A Good Time for fager’s island Fine Dine?

By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor (Sept. 18, 2026) Ocean City officials say the unavailability of parttime emergency services personnel led to an uptick in overtime hours within the fire department last quarter. During Tuesday’s work session, Internal Auditor Karin Scott presented the Ocean City Council with a quarterly report on overtime hours. From April to June, overtime decreased by just 110 hours, when compared to the same quarter in 2025. “One thing that didn't happen in 2026 that did in 2025 was the Boardwalk Rock concert,” she said. “That was 1,300 hours. So really, we were a little over in the hours if you look at it with that excluded.” And while the police department saw significant decreases in the number of overtime hours worked, Scott said the fire department saw increases in multiple overtime categories, with the largest uptick being caused by the absence of part-timers. “That’s their main increase,” she said. In her report this week, Scott highlighted overtime hours within the police department. She noted that leave/cancel overtime decreased by 2,341 hours, training overtime decreased by 201 hours, investigation overtime decreased by 190 hours and paperwork overtime decreased by 127 hours. “It’s all good trends,” she said, “all going down.” However, she noted a different trend within the fire department.

Compared to the same quarter last year, contract overtime increased by 224 hours, no part-time availability overtime increased by 556 hours and training overtime increased by 378 hours. “However, I know they did have some training of some new employees,” she said. “So that would be the reason for that to go up.” For his part, Councilman John Gehrig commended the police department for lowering its overtime hours. However, he questioned how overtime could increase for the fire department, particularly after numerous injuries drove up workers’ comp overtime in the second quarter of 2025. “We’re still above that,” he said. Scott noted that the fire department recorded 226 overtime hours for work comp injuries in 2024 and 223 overtime hours for work comp injuries in 2025. This year, that number decreased to 24 overtime hours. “Work comp went down,” she explained. “It’s the part-time availability [that increased].” Gehrig also pointed out increases within the Ocean City Beach Patrol. He noted that overtime, particularly in the month of June, jumped from 603 hours in 2025 to 1,882 hours in 2026. “Were we staffed enough?” he asked. City Manager Terry McGean said staffing was not an issue for the Beach Patrol this summer. However, officials speculated that late arrivals from college students could have increased overtime hours in early June. “I only ask because as we get more of these reports, these small jumps, when you look back over a year, all of a sudden it’s up 100%,” Gehrig explained.

SEPTEMBER 18, 2026

OC Today-Dispatch

PAGE 11

RAVENS VS SAINTS ~ SUNDAY 1 P.M.

OPEN DAILY 11 A.M.

KITCHEN OPEN UNTIL 1 A.M. 28th Street • 410-289-2020 PitandPub.com

HAPPY HOUR DAILY 2-5P.M.

25% OFF ALL APPETIZERS & DRINKS

NORTHSIDE OPEN DAILY 11 A.M. • KITCHEN OPEN UNTIL 11 P.M. 127th Street • 443-664-7482

OC Today-Dispatch

PAGE 12

SEPTEMBER 18, 2026

‘Takeover’ law a legislative priority Maryland Municipal League to confront teen gatherings that are coordinated online By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor (Sept. 18, 2026) The Maryland Municipal League (MML) says addressing coordinated takeover events will be one of its top legislative priorities for the coming year’s General Assembly session. With less than four months remaining until state lawmakers reconvene in Annapolis, the Maryland Municipal League announced this week that it will prioritize two legislative actions – advancing the modernization of Maryland’s municipal revenue structure and addressing the growing public safety challenges surrounding social media-driven takeover events. The legislative priorities were adopted by a unanimous vote of MML’s board of directors. “Our cities and towns maintain the streets people travel, protect neighborhoods, support local economies and deliver the essential services residents expect every day. They need both the public-safety tools to respond to emerging threats and a modern fiscal framework capable of

sustaining those responsibilities,” said MML Chief Executive Officer Theresa Kuhns. “The 2027 session presents the opportunity to move from studying these challenges to building solutions. MML looks forward to working with the Governor and General Assembly as our state partners to strengthen Maryland's municipalities and, in doing so, continue to strengthen Maryland.” Takeovers are described as mass gatherings in which mainly young people use social media platforms to gather in one location at a certain time. While some are used as social meetups, others have escalated to fights, vandalism and disorderly conduct, quickly straining police resources. In Ocean City, for example, a takeover event organized online brought hundreds of participants to town for last year’s Independence Day celebrations. The weekend, in turn, was marred by a Boardwalk stampede, large gatherings on streets and beaches, and a reported shooting. The Ocean City Police Department reported that 52% of arrestees associated with last year’s gatherings were under the age of 21. When similar takeover events returned to Ocean City this summer, that number

Contact Oasis Travel for Your Next Leisure or Group Adventure

Let Us Find Your Oasis

Assateague Square Shopping Center 9808 Stephen Decatur Highway, Suite 4 - Ocean City Maryland 21842 (410) 213-9330 - travelwithoasis.com - info@travelwithoasis.com

jumped to 67%. With the number of takeover events growing across the state, city officials earlier this year announced it would be seeking some sort of legislation to curb any illegal or destructive activities that may occur at such gatherings. In early June, for example, Ocean City Mayor Rick Meehan penned a letter to Gov. Wes Moore, state leaders and members of the Eastern Shore delegation describing the rise in takeover events and suggesting numerous criminal penalties. And in August, Ocean City Police Chief Ray Austin announced his department had submitted a report on the operational impacts of takeover events to the Maryland Chiefs of Police Association, the state agency working alongside MML to propose legislation. In a news release Monday, MML said Maryland municipalities are confronting increased coordinated takeover events, in which large groups, often organized rapidly through social media, converge on public property. The organization added that the events have created significant public safety challenges and strain local law enforcement resources. “MML will partner with State agencies, law enforcement and municipal officials to identify effective tools to both prevent and respond to these events, hold individuals accountable for unlawful conduct, and protect residents, businesses and visitors while respecting constitutional protections,” the news release reads. In addition to takeover legislation, MML will focus on modernizing the state’s municipal revenue structure, which it reports has remained largely unchanged for decades, “even as the responsibilities of cities and towns— and the costs of delivering municipal services—have evolved.” In 2026, the General Assembly established the Task Force to Modernize County and Municipal Revenue Structures to examine existing and potential revenue sources, local revenue authority, approaches used in other states, and the potential impacts of new revenue options. Its recommendations are due to the governor and General Assembly by Dec. 1. “These priorities came directly from the cities and towns we represent,” said Takisha James, 2026– 2027 MML President and Mayor of Bladensburg. “Our municipalities are confronting today's responsibilities with fiscal tools largely designed generations ago, while simultaneously responding to public-safety challenges that could not have been anticipated when systems were created. Maryland's cities and towns are ready to work with our state partners on solutions that reflect the realities our communities face today.”

OC Today-Dispatch

SEPTEMBER 18, 2026

State says Whaleyville light at Route 50 coming in 2027 By Brian Shane Staff Writer (Sept. 18, 2026) Maryland highway officials are planning to put a traffic light at Route 50 and Whaleyville Road, one of Worcester County’s most dangerous intersections. The announcement came just one day after a two-vehicle crash at the intersection 10 miles west of Berlin that shut down the roadway and sent five people to the hospital. Maryland State Police are investigating. Worcester County Commissioner President Ted Elder (District 4, Western) said most crashes seem to occur as motorists cross the westbound lanes of Route 50 from Whaleyville Road (Route 610) into the median. “It’s probably the worst intersection in Worcester County,” he said at Tuesday’s commissioners meeting in Snow Hill. “I’m not a traffic expert, but we need to find some way to alleviate that, and the sooner the better.” Mark Crampton, District 1 engineer for the State Highway Administration, said the traffic signal design should be completed by this time next year. He did not provide a construction date. He agreed that the intersection, located near the Worcester-Wicomico county line, ranks highest in Worcester County for the number and severity of crashes. He called the signal its “number one priority.” “Our thing is full speed ahead on the signal and just try to get that out there as fast as we can,” Crampton said. Crampton also said SHA crews will continue keeping vegetation trimmed to preserve sight lines at the crossing – although that can have the unintended effect of encouraging westbound drivers to travel faster because they can see farther ahead. While the Whaleyville signal is being designed, State Highway Administrator

Will Pines suggested installing portable signs displaying drivers’ speeds along Route 50, which he said tend to make motorists pay attention and slow down. Maryland Transportation Secretary Katie Thomson and other transportation officials appeared in person before the commissioners as part of the agency’s statewide tour to present its draft sixyear capital program. The draft program includes $21.9 billion in transportation spending statewide through 2032, with safety and maintenance of existing roads, bridges, and other infrastructure among MDOT’s top priorities. Even with that spending, MDOT faces what Thomson called a “constrained budget environment,” with construction and operating costs growing faster than revenue. As a result, a proposed replacement of the Route 50 drawbridge in Ocean City and improvements to Route 589 will not appear in the final six-year program, officials said. MDOT will continue seeking funding for both corridors. At the same time, the state has advanced preliminary engineering and environmental work for improvements along Route 90, between Route 50 and Coastal Highway. Other projects outlined Tuesday include cleaning and painting the Route 13 Business bridge in Pocomoke City by the end of this year, and painting the Route 50 drawbridge in Ocean City beginning next year. The state also announced a $94,000 grant to design a 1,500-foot shared-use path connecting South Washington Street to John Walter Smith Park in Snow Hill. Separately, design work continues for improvements to the intersection of Routes 376 and 611, although officials provided no completion date.

WINTER BOAT STORAGE 410-213-2296 Boat Storage, Winterizing & Shrink Wrap Available for all Makes & Models Trailer & Boat Storage by the Day, Week, Month or Season

OPEN YEAR ROUND!

HARBOR MARINE 12731 Sunset Avenue Located 1 Block from the Worcester County Boat Ramp in West Ocean City

410-213-2296 • www.harbormarineoc.com Family Owned & Operated for 48 Years

PAGE 13

OC Today-Dispatch

PAGE 14

SEPTEMBER 18, 2026

Commissioners opt to bolster reserve level By Brian Shane Staff Writer (Sept. 18, 2026) Six weeks after commissioners bitterly clashed over the fate of a multimillion-dollar rainy-day fund, Worcester County will all but drain the account to bolster its mandatory reserve ahead of several big-ticket bond issues. The county will move approximately $14.5 million from the $15.2 million Budget Stabilization Fund, leaving roughly $700,000 behind. “I think this is a great use of the money in the slush fund,” said Commissioner Joe Mitrecic, who proposed setting aside even

more than county staff had requested. The higher reserve requirement took effect with the Worcester County Commissioners’ unanimous vote Tuesday. The money was slated to be transferred this week. The decision increased the county’s reserve requirement to 20% – above the 17% minimum recommended by the county’s bond consultant, Davenport. Each percentage point requires about $2.9 million, according to Deputy County Administrator Candace Savage. Before Tuesday’s vote, county policy required officials to hold the equivalent

Delaware Seaside Railroad Club

MODEL TRAIN & TOY SHOW

Saturday, October 3rd • 9 am - 2 pm

in the Hope Center 97 Central Avenue • Ocean View, Delaware

Admission $6 Children 10 and Under – Free

Train Races for the Kids Operating Layouts, Refreshments & Door Prizes

Visit DelawareSeasideRailroadClub.com Or contact Skip Lee at 443.618.6866 for more information

Your Outdoor Living Space with Beautiful, Low Maintenance, and Environmentally Sustainable Timbertech Decking available at Adkins Company

“We want to give the bond rating agencies confidence that we’re in good standing with our debt, and we’re taking it seriously,” said Fiori (District 3, West Ocean City). The Budget Stabilization Fund is the county’s rainy-day fund. Former commissioners created the account in the wake of the 2007–08 recession, when Worcester faced a multimillion-dollar budget shortfall. It is separate from the county’s mandatory reserve. Last month, the commissioners clashed publicly when Commissioner Chip Bertino proposed studying whether the county could liquidate the rainy-day account. Bertino wanted the money returned to resident homeowners through onetime rebate checks. The Aug. 4 request failed on a 3–4 vote, with Mitrecic and Fiori among those opposed. At the time, Mitrecic argued vociferously that the money should be spent on countywide needs including school construction, water and sewer improvements, and the future public safety building. Tuesday’s vote drew none of that rancor. Bertino and Commissioner Jim Bunting, who had supported studying the rebate proposal, joined their five colleagues in approving the transfer. Commissioners punctuated the unanimous decision with a hearty chorus of “aye” – noticeably louder than their typically subdued voice votes.

WEST OCEAN CITY PROFESSIONAL OFFICE SPACE FOR RENT

High Traﬃc Area with Great Visibility & Plenty of Parking

Elevate

of 15% of annual general fund spending in reserve and replenish the account within two years if its balance fell below that threshold. The commissioners last raised the requirement in 2023, going from from 12% to 15%. The money is not being spent, only moved. Under county policy, commissioners determine when emergency or contingency conditions justify tapping the account. In preparation for several large bond issuances, Davenport advised the county to maintain reserves equal to at least two months of operating expenses, or 16.7%, Savage said. She asked commissioners to raise the requirement to 17%. But Mitrecic (District 7, Ocean City) wanted to go further. He proposed bumping the reserve level to 20% – arguing that an even bigger reserve balance would leave the county better prepared to absorb the costs of a major storm or other emergency. “Not that I think 20% is going to be enough,” Mitrecic said, “but at least that would put us a little closer to having enough money to sustain the county in that type of situation. This is planning for our future, and I support it 100%.” Commissioner Eric Fiori also backed the higher amount, pointing to two school construction projects and a proposed public safety building among the county’s looming expenses.

Teal Marsh Shopping Center • 9921 Stephen Decatur Hwy./Rt. 611

$475/month: Rent includes Internet & Utilities Call 410-726-5020

DREDGING • RIP-RAP • PIERS

IN-STOCK Timbertech Decking in Slate Gray & Brownstone 12’, 16’ and 20’ lengths

VINYL BULKHEADS • DOCKS BOATLIFT PILING • BOATLIFTS PWC LIFT INSTALLS & REPAIRS

3 Harrison Avenue Berlin, MD 21811 410-641-2200

Mon-Fri 7:30am-4:30pm • Closed Sat & Sun

www.adkinscompany.com

RIT T S U J

E MARINE INC

SEPTEMBER 18, 2026

OC Today-Dispatch

PAGE 15

PAGE 16

OC Today-Dispatch

SEPTEMBER 18, 2026

Diakonia gets $250,000 from OC Town Council unanimously votes to grant the nonprofit $50K a year for five years By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor (Sept. 18, 2026) The Town of Ocean City will invest $250,000 into Diakonia’s new Supportive Living Campus, to be built on a parcel of land along Route 611. During Tuesday’s work session, the City Council voted unanimously to give $250,000 to Diakonia’s supportive living campus capital campaign. The $250,000 donation, officials say, will be divided into $50,000 payments over a five-year period, beginning in fiscal year 2028. “Ocean City has been part of Diakonia’s story from the beginning,” Diakonia’s development director, Amanda Shick, told city leaders this week. “We would like for the town to be part of the next chapter.” By “Supportive Living,” the nonprofit group means a centralized facility that brings all the infrastructure and services together. Currently, Diakonia’s housing and support services are dispersed across multiple locations in West Ocean City, creating challenges for both the

nonprofit and its clients. Officials say their new approach will allow Diakonia to serve more people in one location. As proposed, the campus will include an expanded food pantry and distribution hub, housing services, veteran services, and case management offices. However, building the facility will cost an estimated $15.25 million, with $7.9 million allocated for the first phase of construction. To that end, Shick and Diakonia’s executive director, Ken Argot, came before the City Council on Tuesday to request financial support from the city. So far, the nonprofit has received $5.2 million for the project, with grants secured from the Maryland Board of Public Works, the governor’s fiscal year 2027 capital budget, and, most recently, Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD). Shick said the city’s $250,000 contribution would go toward DHCD’s $1 million match requirement. “We believe Ocean City has an important opportunity to be a part of what comes next,” she said. For his part, Councilman John Gehrig applauded Diakonia’s leaders. He also recognized the city’s partnership with the nonprofit be-

fore making a motion to approve the $250,000 contribution. “Your history and track record speaks for itself,” he said. “You provide a critical service that helps the Town of Ocean City.” Mayor Rick Meehan agreed. “The services you provide our community are extremely important,” he said. “You are the only place that really provides an effective case management programs to help those really in need of help, and to help them reacclimate back into, say, the real world, to be able to take care of themselves and their families.” Ultimately, the City Council voted 7-0 to approve the $250,000 contribution, to be spread out over the next five years. The contribution will also include a mutually agreed upon naming opportunity within the supportive living campus, once it is built. However, city officials said they would rather see those naming rights be sold to another sponsor. “The naming opportunity is the last thing on my list of things I care about,” Gehrig said. “So if you have the opportunity to provide that to another sponsor and monetize that elsewhere, I would certainly support sacrificing that for the Town of Ocean City. So go find someone else and sell it.”

SEPTEMBER 18, 2026

OC Today-Dispatch

PAGE 17

PAGE 18

OC Today-Dispatch

SEPTEMBER 18, 2026

County challenges BZA human remains vote By Brian Shane Staff Writer (Sept. 18, 2026) The Worcester County Commissioners won’t say why they are asking a judge to overturn their own zoning board’s decision allowing Earth Funeral to spread composted human remains on farmland outside Snow Hill. County attorney Roscoe Leslie on Monday filed a petition for judicial review seeking to reverse the decision by the Board of Zoning Appeals. The onepage petition identifies the zoning case and asks the court to reverse the decision but does not state the county’s legal grounds for challenging the Aug. 13 approval. Hugh Cropper, the attorney who represents Earth Funeral, said he has never seen the county commissioners appeal a BZA decision in almost 38 years of practicing land-use law. “I rarely say this, but I feel absolutely confident that we will win the appeal,” Cropper said. He added that the appeal does not automatically halt the BZA approval. Natural organic reduction – the formal name for the process of composting human remains – was legalized by Maryland lawmakers in 2024 through the Green Death Care Options Act. Earth Funeral is a Seattle-based company that opened its first East Coast facility in Elkridge in May. It

places a body inside a vessel with wood chips, mulch, and wildflowers. Over six to eight weeks, a controlled process transforms the remains into roughly one cubic yard of soil. Families may take as much of the resulting soil as they want. Any unused soil may be donated to Earth Funeral for use in reforestation projects. The company wants to bring that soil to a Snow Hill-area property on Scott Road, where it would be tilled into the ground to support native trees. Cropper said Earth Funeral’s purchase of the 14-acre property is still pending. Because the county has no regulations specifically addressing the spreading of soil produced through natural organic reduction, Earth Funeral was required to seek a special exception from the zoning board. Commissioner Ted Elder, the board president, said he first heard about the case after receiving a telephone call from Roger Richardson, a neighboring farmer who had opposed the proposal at the BZA hearing one day earlier. Although Elder initiated the discussion, he said he could not authorize the appeal alone. Pursuing it required support from at least four members of the seven-member board. The commissioners approved the action in closed session Sept. 1, he said. Elder (District 4, Western) also

questioned why Earth Funeral would transport the material roughly 130 miles from Howard County to the lower Eastern Shore. “I just don’t feel that it’s right,” he said. “What’s next, atomic waste?” Richardson, 92, is a former Maryland agriculture secretary. He told the zoning board he has farmed for 60 years and that his operation covers roughly 4,000 acres. He argued Earth Funeral’s proposal would permanently prevent productive farmland from being used to grow food. The 2024 law that legalized the composting process in Maryland also prohibits using the resulting soil to grow food for human or livestock consumption. “I didn’t particularly like spreading chicken manure, and God knows I’m not gonna spread people,” Richardson told the board during the hearing. The zoning board approved the special exception after a lengthy public hearing during which members questioned witnesses and heard from opponents. Cropper said BZA members did their job by hearing from all sides, debating the evidence, and granting the special exception on its merits. He also noted that Worcester County considers spreading both chicken manure and treated sewage effluent on farmland to be agricultural uses.

“It is certainly in every respect an agricultural use,” Cropper said. “This is clean composted soil that our guy testified will enhance the soil to grow trees.” Leslie, the county’s attorney, declined to comment when asked what provision of county law the zoning board violated or misinterpreted. However, he did invoke a recent appeals case involving a separate Worcester County zoning dispute, regarding Pin Oak Properties. Leslie referred to a July 24 Appellate Court of Maryland decision that found the county commissioners themselves failed to explain their denial of a rezoning request – to the point that “judicial review is impossible,” Judge Brett Wilson wrote. The zoning board generally has 60 days to transmit the hearing record to circuit court. Cropper estimated it could take six to nine months before the appeal reaches a courtroom. Cropper also noted that the county’s planning commission had reviewed the proposal one month before the zoning hearing and offered no comments. “The commissioners were not at the hearing,” Cropper said. “They should not spend taxpayer money to file an appeal which they’re going to lose based on hearsay from an angry neighbor.”

SEPTEMBER 18, 2026

OC Today-Dispatch

PAGE 19

OC Today-Dispatch

PAGE 20

SEPTEMBER 18, 2026

OC re-ups beach code enforcement for 2027 By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor (Sept. 18, 2026) After applauding the success of the newly established beach code enforcement division, city officials this week directed staff to include funding recommendations for continuing the program next year. Emergency Services Director Joe Theobald told members of the Ocean City Council this week that the new division is wrapping up its first season on Ocean City’s beach. As of this week, division staffers have tagged roughly 3,300 unoccupied beach canopies, followed up with 72% of owners and talked to 11,500 beachgoers about the city’s ordinances. “I think it was a successful program, in my opinion,” he said. “I think it helped. And I ask that you reflect as we go into the new budget year, if you wish to continue this pilot program.”

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. Since that time, Theobald has given the council biweekly updates and has reported on how the program was being received. Last month, for example, coun-

1 6 o t y s e ars r e e Ch

he be

au t i f

! y a b ul

cil members learned that beachgoers were getting around the 10 a.m. restriction by placing beach chairs along the shoreline and erecting their canopies later in the day. Theobald also shared the story of a beachgoer who was willing to pay the citation if it meant he could keep using his tent. In his last update of the season, Theobald told council members on Tuesday that he recommended the continuation of the code enforcement division. However, he did suggest some changes, including one that would allow more types of sunshades on the beach. “There are others [sunshades] out there that people bring that we tell them they can’t use,” he said. “And one of them is like a sun-brella, with two triangular sides on an umbrella. It doesn’t fit the definition, and they were asked to remove it, yet they use about half the space.” For his part, Councilman Jake Mitrecic commended Theobald on the successful program, adding that he had reserved offering his congratulations until the end of the summer season. He said through Theobald’s input, council members were able to see what worked, and what didn’t. “Obviously, when we do a lot of things up here, it’s easy for us to look at things from a 30,000-foot view and say this is how it’s going to be, this is how enforcement is going to work,” he said. “When we get the feedback from you and your

team, it puts things into perspective about how things actually work for us, and we can take that and figure out how things ought to look from an ordinance standpoint. So, thank you for taking the time all summer to come in here and put it into real-life terms for us.” Council President Matt James, the only council member to object to the division’s creation, agreed. “As someone who was opposed to the project originally, I appreciate the fact that you got it right and you hired the right people to carry out the mission,” he said. “I think that’s probably the biggest battle, getting the right people out there so the message is relayed in the right manner.” Mayor Rick Meehan thanked Theobald for his leadership and following through on the council’s direction. He said enforcement personnel ensured that the beach remained enjoyable, while providing “another set of eyes” for lifeguards in the stands. “I think consistency is important,” he said.” I hope we continue the program. I think they are now looked upon as ambassadors.” With that said, council members agreed to have staff come back with funding recommendations for them to review at budget time. When asked about manpower, Theobald said he would suggest a small increase next season. “That’s really my recommendation at this point,” he said.

Eastern Shores’s Vehicle Preservation Specialist CLEANING • CORRECTING PROTECTING

Happy Hours Daily Throughout!

11:30am-5pm • Drink & Food Specials

302-436-2305

Family Owned and Operated

2 LOCATIONS

For Reservations & Specials Check Out Our Website! 54

Open Wednesday-Sunday • Fenwick Island • USA

to Serve You:

West Ocean City

410-390-5920

Salisbury

410-860-0800 Call Today for a FREE QUOTE or Schedule or Go to:

2023 - 2026

www.CoatThatCar.com

Appointments Required!

SEPTEMBER 18, 2026

OC Today-Dispatch

PAGE 21

PAGE 22

OC Today-Dispatch

SEPTEMBER 18, 2026

Cashless payment coming soon to resort’s bus system

Family, friends remember motorcyclist killed in crash

By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor (Sept. 18, 2026) With a vendor now selected, a cashless payment option for Ocean City’s bus fleet could be operational by next month, Transportation Manager Rob Shearman announced this week. Shearman said after reviewing bids from four companies interested in providing an app-based payment system, the city has awarded a contract to Token Transit, a company that provides transit technology to more than 200 municipal and regional transportation agencies across the country. While the terms of the contract are still being reviewed, he said the city should be ready to test the system by mid- to late-October. “Our goal is to use the slower-paced off-season to get familiar with the system and work through any unforeseen kinks or snags we encounter, then begin really marketing it after that,” he said in an email Tuesday. “Our primary aim is to have it fully up and running before SpringFest, but if things go very well, St. Patrick’s Day would be a nice ‘stretch goal.’” Instead of relying solely on the current cash-only system, the pilot program would allow riders the option to pay the bus fare using their cellphones. The app-

By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor (Sept. 18, 2026) Local law enforcement continue to investigate a motorcycle collision that killed one motorist and injured another in Ocean City last week. On Sept. 10, at around 4:39 p.m., Ocean City Police Department officers responded to a motor vehicle collision involving two motorcycles. According to the department, the incident occurred on northbound Coastal Highway and 37th Street. Police say the investigation revealed that a motorcyclist turning north onto Coastal Highway at 37th Street drove into the path of another motorcycle traveling north on Coastal Highway. While the northbound motorist was transported to TidalHealth Peninsula Regional with non-lifethreatening injuries, the operator of the turning motorcycle, later identified by family as Robert A. Passaglia, 63, of Maryland, was pronounced deceased by EMS personnel after lifesaving efforts were performed. Northbound Coastal Highway between 36th and 38th streets was reduced to one lane of travel for roughly three-and-a-half hours last

based payment system, officials say, would require no major onboard equipment, making it easy and cost effective to launch. Public Works Director Hal Adkins also noted that providing a cashless option could entice more people to use the city’s transportation system. “Cash payment has served us well over the decades but we both know more and more people are walking around ‘cash less’ as it relates to carrying currency in their pockets,” he said in an email this week. As part of its working arrangement with the city, Shearman said Token Transit would pocket a percentage of each fare they collect through the app-based system. During the bid process, that number came to 8%, although the contract has not yet finalized the amount. “Obviously that only applies to those fares which are paid with the app – the vendor has no claim to any portion of any fares we continue to collect via cash,” he said. Both Shearman and Adkins made it clear this week that the cashless payment option is just that – an option. Shearman said riders who do not have smartphones or prefer not to use them for financial transactions will still have the ability to pay with cash and collect a paper ride-all-day pass.

Thursday to allow the department’s Traffic Safety Unit to conduct a collision reconstruction investigation. The investigation is active and ongoing, the department reports. In an interview this week, Passaglia’s son, Jarrett Passaglia, shared of his father’s life, his involvement with the Exiled Souls Motorcycle Club, and his career as a chef. “He blessed all of us with the food he made,” he said. Sentiments were also shared by the Exiled Souls Motorcycle Club, Montgomery Chapter, which announced Passaglia’s passing in a Facebook post Tuesday. “Having served with honor as both President and Vice President, he led our brotherhood with unwavering strength, wisdom, and integrity,” the post reads. “Beyond his leadership, Chef was a dedicated mentor, a loyal sponsor, and a true friend to all who knew him. He gave selflessly of his time, his guidance, and his heart to ensure every brother has a solid foundation beneath him. “His impact on our club and our lives will never be forgotten. While he has taken his final ride, his spirit, legacy, and brotherhood will forever stay with us on the road ahead.”

HOME OF THE ORIGINAL & OFFICIAL MARYLAND STATE COCKTAIL

THE FRESH-SQUEEZED ORANGE CRUSH! OVER A MILLION SOLD! 18 COMPLIMENTARY BOAT SLIPS WHILE DINING FOR LUNCH OR DINNER

HAPPY HOUR

Monday-Friday 3-6 p.m.

-ENTERTAINMENTFRIDAY: DJ Billy T • 3 p.m.

$3.75 Domestic Drafts & Rail Drinks $5.50 Glasses Of Wine

$8 Original Orange Crush SATURDAY: Mercury Agenda • 1 p.m. $10.99 Jerk Chicken DJ Bigler • 6 p.m. $12.99 Wings SUNDAY: $10.99 1/2-Lb. Opposite Directions • 1 p.m. Steamed Shrimp WEDNESDAY: $12.99 Steamed Mussels DJ Billy T • 3 p.m. $22.99 2 Dozen THURSDAY: Steamed Clams Dust N Bones • 5 p.m. (Mussel Style Add $2) South Harbor Rd • West End, Ocean City • 410-213-1846 Open 11 a.m. Daily • Waterfront WiFi • www.weocharborside.com

[ Historic Berlin \

Well Worth The Visit ~ Great Kitchen

OC Today-Dispatch

SEPTEMBER 18, 2026

PAGE 23

POLICE/COURTS

Felony assault A man was arrested after surveillance video footage confirmed he pulled a knife on a man and assaulted him. On the night of Sept. 9, Ocean City police officers on the Boardwalk were approached at 2nd Street by a group of individuals yelling about an assault happening nearby. The group told police a man, their friend, was jumped by multiple males. The victim told police he was punched in the back of the head and had been threatened with a knife. Police confirmed the details of the incident through City Watch camera surveillance. Police were able to apprehend the suspect, Ryan S. Christian, 29, of Bel Air, who had a spring-assisted brass knuckle knife. Christian was charged with first-degree assault, second-degree assault, possession of a martial arts weapon and reckless endangerment.

Naked bonfire with signs Two men were arrested after they stole two Ocean City “no smoking” signs, then started a fire with them on the beach and went streaking. On Sept. 9, around 2 in the morning, Ocean City police were dispatched to 8th Street and the beach in reference to “A report of a mali-

cious burning of city owned property,” according to the police report. Police used the city’s surveillance cameras to see three men sitting around a fire and then began running down the beach naked. The three men also were seen attempting to break and steal signs on the beach to add to the fire. They apparently also tried to wrangle a lifeguard stand. When police arrived on the scene, they saw two men, Cosmin Cimpanu, 20, and Dragos Lupascu, 19, identified through their Romanian passports, around the 9th Street comfort station completely naked. Police escorted the men toward the fire where their clothes were and officers noted two municipal no smoking signs broken and on fire on the beach. Cimpanu and Lupascu are each charged with second-degree malicious burning, indecent exposure, theft $100 to under $1,500 and malicious destruction of property under $1,000.

Malicious destruction A New Jersey man was charged after reportedly using his cowboy boot to break a rear windshield of a vehicle. On Sept. 13, shortly after midnight, Ocean City police went to a 54th Street parking garage for a malicious destruction of property complaint. A vehicle owner told police their

2025 Toyota RAV4 had its rear window destroyed with a cowboy boot, which was sitting on a piece of luggage in the rear storage area. A matching cowboy boot was located nearby in a parking spot. The vehicle had several dents and scuffs elsewhere that were severe and consistent with kicks. Two other vehicles in the parking garage and a nearby rain gutter were also damaged. The vehicles had scuffs, mud and minor dents, “but the boot prints were most noticeable,” according to the statement of charges. On top of one of the vehicles was a wallet with identification belonging to Eric Riley, 27, of Sewell, N.J. An iPhone was also discovered nearby as well as an Etch-A-Sketch and a “Hello Kitty” backpack with children’s toys inside. Nearby surveillance video was retrieved and revealed Riley going on a

violent rampage for about an hour in the garage. Riley was unable to be located immediately but he did come to the Public Safety Building to inquire about a missing phone. Police spoke to Riley and asked about the damaged vehicles. Riley said he did not remember the incidents. Riley was placed under arrest. A police evaluation of the vehicles’ damages amounted to an estimated total between $8,900 and $14,200. Riley is charged with five counts of malicious destruction of property valued over $1,000.

Teen with gun, drugs An area teenager was arrested after police found him with a loaded gun in his vehicle and enough cannabis to lead to a distribution Continued on Page 24

Get Your Tail Back to the Dog ... for Our Great Specials in the Second Season!

Steelers vs

Patriots Sunday 1pm

Gates Open 11am Get Here Early For A Good Seat!

MARONICK

Criminal Defense Lawyers The Lawyers Locals Use & Visitors Should

Thomas J. Maronick Jr

• DUIs • Criminal Charges • Reckless Driving • Special Event Zone Citations • Open Containers • Bail Reviews • Traffic Tickets

Saturday Noon PENN ST. VS BUFFALO BULLS

OC’s Best Cheesesteaks! Great Food & Drinks Friendly Staff!

BUXY’S GOT YOU COVERED! NFL • NCAA • MLB • PGA On All Our TVs

Two Great Places, One Location!

HAPPY HOUR

Monday-Friday 2-5pm

We Have Indoor & Outdoor Seating On Our Pet Friendly Patio

-Entertainment-

Saturday: Muskrat Lightning 9pm

5000 Coastal Hwy Suite 5- 2ND Floor

Hottest Tees on the Beach! BUXY’S SALTY DOG OPEN EVERY DAY 11AM 410-289-BUXY • BUXYSSALTYDOG.COM

DRY DOCK 28 OPEN EVERY DAY 11AM 410-289-2828 • DRYDOCKOC.COM

28TH STREET • PLENTY OF PARKING • LARGE GROUPS WELCOME

OC Today-Dispatch

PAGE 24

SEPTEMBER 18, 2026

n I Lov l l a e F

Sea food

In F

ze o o • Spirits & Schm A Restaurant

! d enwick Islan

W in o Wednesdays ! S R E E CH Happy Hours 4-6 p.m. Daily Throughout!

SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH

$10 Off

OC ROCK AND RIDE

The band Hinder performs before a crowd of concertgoers during last weekend’s OC Rock and Ride motorcycle rally.

All Bottled Wines

POLICE/COURTS

OPEN WEDNESDAY - SUNDAY Reservations Via Open Table Or On Our Website

302-539-2607 IN THE M OF FENWICK ISLAND

Continued from Page 24 charge. On Sept. 11, around 4 p.m., Ocean City police came upon a vehicle broken down on Coastal Highway at 36th Street. While helping to push the vehicle off the roadway, an officer noticed the smell of a marijuana coming from the passenger compartment of the vehicle being operated by Bryan K. Irvin, 19, of Selbyville. While producing his license, police noticed Irvin had a bag of cannabis in the vehicle and he admitted to having a gun on his person. Police located a .40 caliber Smith and Wesson hand-

APPAREL SHOP

BETWEEN CAROLINE & TALBOT STREETS ON THE BOARDWALK 410-289-6953

PURPLEMOOSE.COM OPEN MON-THURS 11AM FRI-SUN 10AM WELCOME OCEANS CALLING

AWAKEN

FRIDAY & SATURDAY, SEPT. 18 & 19 • 10PM

DJ PAPI

THURSDAYS • 9PM

THE REAGAN YEARS FRIDAY SEPT. 25 • 3PM

LITHIUM & CANDY SATURDAY SEPT. 26 • 3PM

HFS

SUNDAY SEPT. 27 • 3PM

gun with nine rounds in the magazine. Police also located another bag with cannabis, a digital scale, multiple clear plastic bags and several multicolor bags within the backpack. Irvin is charged with controlled dangerous substance possession with intent to distribute-cannabis, handgun in vehicle, loaded handgun in vehicle and possession of a firearm by a minor.

Tip jar theft on boards A gun was allegedly used by a Maryland man to steal a tip jar from a Boardwalk merchant last week. On Sept. 8, a Boardwalk merchant reported to police a potential armed robbery happening. The merchant was able to provide police a picture from behind of two suspects who threatened a store employee with a gun in a robbery attempt. Steven B. Green, 26, of Baltimore, was said to have approached the clerk, produced a gun that looked fake to witnesses and stole a tip jar before returning with the money. Green then reportedly came back a third time pointed the gun – which was easily identified at that time as a fake – at him while laughing and saying they were joking. Officers were able to locate the individual nearby and located the replica gun. Green admitted to taking money in a tip jar that later amounted to $3. He continued to tell police it was a joke. Green was charged with robbery, second-degree assault, theft less than $100 and disorderly conduct.

OC Today-Dispatch

SEPTEMBER 18, 2026

PAGE 25

Worcester Youth appoints director (Sept. 18, 2026) Worcester Youth & Family Counseling Services, Inc. (WYFCS) has announced the appointment of Allysa Gammel as the organization’s new executive director. Gammel brings extensive nonprofit leadership experience and a strong background in organizational management and community-based services to the position. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology and a Master of Science degree in Business Management with a specialization in Nonprofits and Associations. Throughout her career, Gammel has held leadership positions with several nonprofit and community-serving organizations. She previously served as a Psychiatric Rehabilitation Specialist and then Manager of Supported Employment Services for HealthPort. She has also been an Ambassador for the Eastern Shore Region of Maryland ABLE. Most recently, she served as Community Program Coordinator of the Wicomico County Local Management Board, where her work focused on strengthening partnerships and supporting initiatives designed to improve outcomes for children, youth, and families. “Alyssa brings an array of professional and personal attributes to WYFCS: non-profit leadership, business management expertise, a genuine

understanding of the needs of children and families in our region, and a personal dedication to serving the needs of the community and the public at large,” said Gwen Lehman, President of the Board of Directors of Worcester Youth & Family Counseling Services, Inc. “We are excited to welcome Alyssa to WYFCS and are confident she will provide strong leadership as the organization enters its next chapter.” As executive director, Gammel will oversee the organization’s comprehensive range of programs, including Clinical Counseling Services, Worcester Navigation, Worcester Connects Mentoring, and Youth Enrichment Programs. WYFCS has served the community for more than 50 years, providing programs and services designed to strengthen families, support mental health and well-being, empower

young people, and connect individuals with essential community resources. “I am honored to join Worcester Youth & Family Counseling Services, Inc. and to have the privilege of leading such a dedicated team with a longstanding commitment to supporting the children, families, and communities of Worcester County,” said Gammel. “What excites me most is the chance to invest in a community I care deeply about, strengthen meaningful programs, and create opportunities that make a lasting difference in people’s lives.” The Board of Directors looks forward to Gammel’s leadership as WYFCS continues its mission of helping individuals, children, and families throughout Worcester County thrive. Worcester Youth & Family Counseling Services, Inc. is a nonprofit organi-

NFL FOOTBALL SPECIALS

24.95 59.95

10 WINGS & 1-LB. STEAMED SHRIMP $ 1 DOZ. MED. STEAMED CRABS, $ 1-LB. STEAMED SHRIMP & 10 WINGS (DURING NFL GAMES)

THE BEST FOR LESS! QUALITY • PRICE • SERVICE

BAHAMAS *3 DOZ. CRABS &

BEST BUSHEL VALUES AT THE BEACH

VO BEST CTED R 17 YEA ABS RS!

Jumbo

39* 1/2 BUSHELS FROM 99 1 LB SHRIMP SPECIALS $ $

Crabshack GUARANTEED

CALL FOR DAILY SPECIALS

CARRY-OUT & SEAFOOD OUTLET

FENWICK ISLAND DE • NORTH OCEAN CITY, MD NO CREDIT CARD FEES!

“FAT” CRABS

1 Dz Crabs

& 1/2lb. Shrimp *

24.95

BIGGEST CRABS IN OCEAN CITY! From $9.95 LUNCH SPECIALS W/ FRIES & DRINK

2017 & 2018 410-208-3500 x308 Office 410-603-8065 Cell 11001 Manklin Meadows Lane Ocean Pines, MD

The Pros To Know

Let Me Help You Find The Home Of Your Dreams! 1-LEVEL 3 BR, 2 BA HOME on PRIVATE LOT NEW

G TIN LIS

OPEN HOUSE SATURDAY 11 AM – 1 PM

MED • MED/LG • LARGE EX-LARGE • JUMBOS

SUBJECT TO AVAILABILITY

LOBSTER TAILS FRESH MD CRAB MEAT LUMP & JUMBO LUMP SCALLOPS & VOTED #1 CRABS OYSTERS & SEAFOOD CLAMS & SHRIMP CARRY OUT

3 LBS JUMBO SNOW CRAB LEGS, FRIES & SLAW

NO TAX • PACK FOR TRAVEL • COOLER & ICE

SCAN Oceanside Md./Del. Line, 37085 Coastal Highway, Fenwick Island, Delaware

Open 7 Days A Week 10am 302-537-5882 • BahamasCrabShack.com STILL

Realtor® SFR®

debbennington4@gmail.com

PREMIUM SEAFOOD BEST PRICES

119

Great Menu, Quality Food Call Ahead-Ready In Minutes Sandwiches & Dinners • Seafood & Chicken • Homemade Soups 1/3 lb. MD Crab Cakes • Steamed Shrimp for Info & Menu

zation serving Worcester County and the surrounding community through mental health counseling, family resource navigation, youth mentoring, and enrichment programs. For more than 50 years, the organization has worked to strengthen families, empower youth, and build a healthier community.

WITH COUPON. EXP. 9/27/26 O CTD

JUMBO CRAB AND BIGGER EVERY DAY • ALL CRABS GRADED BY WEIGHT 1/3 LB. MD JUMBO LUMP MEAT CRAB CAKE W/ FRIES & DRINK

SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH

Allysa Gammel has been appointed as the new executive director of WYFCS.

63 CHATHAM COURT • THE PARKE • OCEAN PINES PREMIER 55+ ACTIVE ADULT COMMUNITY

• Beautifully maintained Royal Tern model home. • Freshly painted interiors, hardwood floors & ceramic tile • Dining room built-in cabinets & Office has built-in storage. • Upgraded kitchen: cabinets with pull-outs, granite counters, newer appliances 2020 & 6 pendant lights. • Sunroom double-sided fireplace & access to rear deck with awning. • Primary suite has painted ceiling artwork, hardwood floors & walk-in closets with custom closet organizers. • Primary BA spa-style jetted tub, double-sink vanity & space to unwind. • Laundry room with front-load washer/dryer & laundry tub. • Oversized garage with 4’ extension, storage shelving & extra refrigerator. • HVAC improvements: new AC system & furnace 2024 & home dehumidifier. • Energy efficient solar panels help reduce utility costs. • Ideal blend of privacy, convenience, community & coastal living. $499,000 ©2026 BHH Affiliates, LLC. An independently owned and operated franchisee of BHH Affiliates, LLC. Berkshire HomesServices and the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices symbol are registered service marks of the HomeServices of America, Inc.® Equal Housing Opportunity.

OC Today-Dispatch

PAGE 26

SEPTEMBER 18, 2026

d l i W ne Wi ek We

Freemark Abbey Cabernet Sauvignon Black currant, blueberryy,, and cherry with cedarr,, dark chocolate, and espresso. Rich, ull-bodied, with balanced tannins and a long, elegant finish. eg. $58.00 $46.40 Phantom Red Blend Dark blackberry & boysenberry, black cherryy,, with pepperr,, juniperr,, baking spices & cocoa. Full-bodied, velvety tannins; long spicyy,, oak-tinged finish. Reg. $20.00 $16.00

September 19-26

Benvolio Pinot Grigio Lemon zest, pink grapefruit & lychee on the nose; palate shows green apple, pearr,, white peach & lime. Crisp, dry with vibrant acidity & a clean, refreshing finish. Reg. $9.00 $7.20 Coppola Claret Bordeaux blend that is Cab driven with aromas of dark fruits and vanilla. Flavors of plum and cocoa with a smooth texture of gentle tannins and a long finish. Reg. $17.00 $13.60 Forge & Vine Cabernet Sauvignon Full-bodied with vibrant red berries, black cherryy,, pepperr,, cocoa, and toasted vanilla aromas. Reg. $19.00 $15.20 Casamaro VVeerdeejjo Fresh and vibrant in the glass with spicelaced aromas of grapefruit, green apple and white flowers. Reg. $13.00 $10.40

* % 0 2 Save rain ded. No ara u l lu c x e e r a s iinne urch ses. Some salredwiscounts on prioyr papply. checks oher restrictions ma Ot

Care Tinto Complex and balanced with notes of dark fruit, spice, and a hint of smokiness. The wine is full-bodied, with a velvety texture and well-integrated tannins. Reg. $12.00 $9.60 Bankkee Brut A steady stream of bubbles opens a world of flavors to explore! Notes of sweet, crisp apple, white peach, and velvety lemon custard emerge. Reg. $45.00 $36.00 GH Mumm Brut Each sip of this structured, vinous champagne unleashes intense and complex flavors of fresh fruits, beffoore morphing into a long finish that is both powerful and fresh. Reg. $45.00 $36.00 Bogle Chardonnay Green apple, juicy pearr,, honeysuckle & ripe stone fruit with vanilla, toasted oak, nutmeg & baking spices. Creamy, medium‐full body with a soft, lingering buttery finish. Reg. $10.00 $8.00 Kendall Jackson Chardonnay Ripe apple, pearr,, tropical fruits like pineapple & mango, with vanilla, butter & oak. Medium to full body, creamy texture, bright acidity & lingering finish. Reg. $14.00 $11.20 Mattaanzas Creek Sauvignon Blanc Notes of white and yellow peaches, apricot and quince. The palate is light to mediumbodied, gregarious and energetic full of flavor. Reg. $20.00 $16.00 Decoy Merlot Offfffeers juicy layers of black cherry, raspberry and plum. On the palate, the flavors are pure and polished, with a mouth-coating texture. Reg. $22.00 $17.60 La Vieille Ferme Rose Pale pink, fresh red berries & floral notes; brightt,, fruity palate with strawberryy,, raspberry & citrus, finishing crisp and refreshing. Reg. $10.00 $8.00

Daily Tasdtayisn- Sgunsday Satur

- Friday Monday & 4-7pm 12-3pm

Please se no no sp special orde o ders rs & IOU's Sale is is IN STO TORE E & ONLI LINE LI Wente Cabernet Sauvignon Aromatics of warm baking spices. 0n the palate this wine delivers ripe blackberry and fig with round, smooth tannins. Reg. $15.00 $12.00 La Crema Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir Aromas of raspberry, cranberry & tea; flavors of cherryy,, plum & boysenberry with subtle espressoo,, cocoa & spice. Bright acidityy,, integrated tannins, long finish. Reg. $24.00 $19.20 Whispering Angel Rose This is full of mouth watering flavor with a lovely texture. Light fruit flavors with a clean finish. Reg. $25.00 $20.00 Conundrum Red Blend Aromas of ripe berries and plums, warmed by a hint of cocoa. TTaannins are rounded out by the ripeness of the berries ffoor a textured but smooth mouth ffeeel. Reg. $22.00 $17.60 AVVVV Cabernet Sauvignon Earthy aromas of cassis, plum, cherryy,, vanilla, oak and slight chocolate. In the glass there are lush flavors of cherryy,, cassis, blackberry and chocolate. Reg. $25.00 $20.00 Adelsheim Pinot Noir Lush red cherries and delicate baking spices on the nose, along with sneaky hints of lavender and honeysuckle. The texture is supple with smooth tannins. Reg. $26.00 $20.80 Josh Cellars Family Reservve ve North Coast Cabernet Sauvignon Bursting with dark fruits and roasted nuts. The wine is full-bodied and plush, showcasing rich ffllavors of black cherries and blackberries with subtle oak and vanilla. Reg. $20.00 $16.00

Specialilizing in Pr Profe fessional Beevera rage Pla lanning

Please Drink Reesponsibly ly. Not resp sponsible le fo for ty typographical err rrors rs in n pri ricing

Open Mon ~ Thurs 9am-9pm Fri & Sat 9am-10pm • Sun 10am-8pm

3022.537.8008 bankswinesandspirits.com You maayy miixx brraandss,, not size Yo izzeess: 122,, 77550ml or 66,, 1.5Ls. Sallee price riicceess rreeflleecttss 20% diissccoountt..

Some sale wines are excluded. No rain checks or discounts on prior purchases. Other ressttrictions may applyy..

Rt. 26, Millvillee,, 38014 Toow wn Center Drr.., 3 mi. w weest ooff RRtt.1 nexxtt to Millville Toow wn Center

SEPTEMBER 18, 2026

OC Today-Dispatch

PAGE 27

PAGE 28

OC Today-Dispatch

SEPTEMBER 18, 2026

OC Today-Dispatch

SEPTEMBER 18, 2026

PAGE 29

THIS IS THE ONE YOU'VE BEEN WAITING FOR!

Not yet on the MLS but I can show you now! Call for your private showing.

OPEN HOUSE SATURDAY 11 AM – 1 PM 607A SALT SPRAY RD • LITTLE SALISBURY • OCEAN CITY

G NEW TIN LIS

Located off 94th Street in arguably the most popular location in Ocean City! This 3-bedroom, 3.5-bath home has a view to die for. Super large garage with half bath will fit three cars back-to-back or convert part into a bedroom, extra kitchen or game room plus garage. Take the elevator to the 2nd floor with upgraded kitchen & bath plus a bedroom. Extra-large living/dining area has a fireplace & Florida room off the living room. Imagine waking up to this view from your bedroom. Wood burning fireplace makes for cozy evenings & the additional room off the bedroom makes a great sitting room or office. An open balcony off the primary is great for those evenings when you watch the fireworks in the summer.

Offered at $ 1,300,000

OCEANFRONT 2 BR, 2 BA CONDO with PRIVATE BALCONY OPEN HOUSE SUNDAY 11 AM – 1 PM

4 84TH STREET UNIT 6 SURFSIDE 84 OCEAN CITY

G NEW TIN LIS

OCEANFRONT LIVING AT ITS BEST! Enjoy breathtaking views & the sound of the waves. This all-brick building is directly on the ocean & has the perfect combination of comfort, convenience & coastal living. Spacious primary BR has oceanfront views & private en-suite BA. Guest BR near the 2nd full BA. Residents enjoy the oceanfront pool, assigned parking & elevator for easy 0 0 $ 499,0 access to the unit. Community washers & dryers are on the 1st Photo Courtesy of Dawson Real Estate Photography ﬂoor. Close to shopping, ACME, a variety of restaurants, nightlife & all that Ocean City has to offer. Take the bus to our famous Boardwalk or just a quick drive-up Coastal Highway. Whether you're looking for a vacation getaway, investment property or your own coastal retreat, this oceanfront gem is ready to enjoy!

DIRECT WATERFRONT 1 BR, 1 BA MID-TOWN CONDO 735 BRADLEY RD #204 • PONTE VISTA • OCEAN CITY

CE P R I CT I O N U RED

SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH

SIGN AUCTION DONATION Plak That provided the Believe in Tomorrow Children’s House by the Sea in Ocean City with a donation of $66,951 on Tuesday. The check represents the proceeds from a successful online auction of used and retired Ocean City street signs. Pictured, from left, are Mary Decker (program manager), Moody and Wyatt Harrison (Plak That owner), Amanda Koontz (program advancement associate) and Brian Morrison (Believe in Tomorrow founder and president).

Town Of Ocean City Job Opportunities Full Time Positions

Convention Center Director $99,923.00-$128,970.00/Annually Wastewater Process Supervisor $64,418.00-$82,451.00/Annually Wastewater SCADA Technician $64,418.00-$82,451.00/Annually For a complete list of requirements and to apply visit oceancitymd.gov Town Of Ocean City 301 Baltimore Ave. Ocean City, MD 410-289-8970

NOW $299,000

Open layout-designed unit maximizes stunning bay views. Located in highly sought after condominium off 94th Street. Close to Acme, Liquid Assets, Bull on the Beach, Lombardi’s & newly constructed 94th Street shopping center, with multiple restaurants & shops, to be ﬁnished 2027. Convenient i-unit washer & dryer stack, disposal & spacious living area. New slider opens to extra-large balcony overlooking pool & bay. Boat docks available on 1st come, 1st serve basis at a low rental rate. 2 elevators for your convenience. Vacation getaway or year-round coastal retreat? This waterfront condo has the ideal combination of comfort, convenience & resort style living.

CUSTOM 5 BR, 4.5 BA ESTATE on 2.84 ACRES 2300 BERMONDSEY DRIVE • BOWIE, MD

CE P R I CT I O N U RED

Long tree lined driveway & beautifully manicured grounds. Impressive upgrades include Gourmet kitchen granite counters, SS appliances & overlooks spacious family room with wood burning fireplace with brick hearth. Screened NOW $999,000 in porch off kitchen & patio and fire pit area. Main level formal dining room with hardwood floors, office with custom book shelving, laundry room with full size washer/dryer & powder room. Upstairs large primary suite with ensuite BA & soaking tub. 3 BRs and BA also upstairs. Finished lower level has 1600+ SF & includes BR & BA perfect for guests or multi-generational living. 2-car attached garage. Seller will allow $5K credit for carpet. Added value: separate 2-car garage with space for contractors, hobbyists, boats, RV's or recreational vehicles. Above garage private apartment with living space, BR, full BA & private balcony. Enjoy life in this private, estate-like setting. Call for a private showing.

2-STORY 23,895 SF COMMERCIAL BUILDING – PRICED TO SELL! 1113 HEALTHWAY DRIVE • SALISBURY

CE P R I CT I O N U RED

Fully leased building off Rt. 50. Zoned Light Business & Institutional. Located in an Opportunity Zone in downtown Salisbury. Triple A tenants include Purdue (entire 2nd floor) & Coastal Hospice & dermatologist occupy $ NOW 2,399,000 the first floor. Over 100 parking spaces. Top of the line VRF HVAC system installed 2016. Cementitious siding, all exterior trim is composite. LED lighting throughout. Conference rooms, numerous private offices, break room & 2 sets of his/her’s restrooms on each floor. All leases long-term with options & are NNN. Leases will be disclosed with signed NDA. This building is priced to sell at an 8% cap rate.

ER UNDTRACT CON

COMPLETELY UPDATED 2 BR, 2 BA BAY FRONT CONDO $ 359,900

5401 COASTAL HIGHWAY • UNIT 2080B SAN REMO • OCEAN CITY

COMMERCIAL BUILDING FOR RENT WORCESTER HIGHWAY • SNOW HILL

For Rent at

$ 2,000 / Month

2,000 square foot building. Formally a liquor store. Owner is willing to give rent abatement or negotiated rent as tenant would have to remodel. Lease to be NNN. Taxes for 2025 $1,088.00

Ann Holtz Associate Broker, REALTOR®

Cell: (443) 359-9863 E-Mail: ann.holtz@cbrealty.com

12207 Coastal Highway Suite D • Ocean City, MD 21842 Office: 410-524-1203

Real estate agents affiliated with Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage are independent contractor sales associates and are not employees of Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage. © 2026 Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. Coldwell Banker is a registered service mark licensed to Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLS. An Equal Opportunity Company. Equal Opportunity. Operated by a subsidiary of NRT LLC.

PAGE 30

OC Today-Dispatch

SEPTEMBER 18, 2026

Weekend of events planned to highlight tech, innovation (Sept. 18, 2026) Ocean City will welcome a weekend of ideas, innovation, emerging technology, and interactive experiences Sept. 18-20, as TEDx Butterfish Cove and E-Volution Expo 2026 come to the Roland E. Powell Convention Center and Performing Arts Center. The three-day weekend – organized by promoters Jamie White, Olivia White, Garvey Heiderman, and Brad Hoffman -- begins Friday, September 18, with TEDx Butterfish Cove, an independently organized TEDx event featuring 19 speakers at the Ocean City Performing Arts Center. E-Volution Expo follows Saturday and Sunday with two days of exhibits, emerging technology, expert conversations, interactive experiences, and special events designed for attendees of all ages and interests. TEDx Butterfish Cove From 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Friday, TEDx Butterfish Cove will bring 19 speakers to the Performing Arts Center stage to share original ideas and perspectives across a diverse range of subjects. TEDx Butterfish Cove is independently organized under license from TED and is a separate event from E-Volution Expo. Organizers said TEDx Butterfish Cove will bring that experience to the Maryland coast while exposing atten-

Do You Need A New Dentist? Choose one of Delmarva’s most credentialed and experienced dentists! • Fellow, Academy of General Dentistry (FAGD) • Master, Academy of General Dentistry (MAGD) • Over 16 Years of Experience • State of the Art Equipment • Less Than 2% of Dentists are Awarded a Master Designation

Providing comprehensive dental care with a full range of services, including preventive, restorative, and complete full-mouth restorations, allowing us to create healthy, functional, and beautiful smiles through personalized, high-quality care.

13901 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, MD 21842 410-250-1559 • www.fenwickdental.com

dees to perspectives from a variety of fields. The 2026 TEDx Butterfish Cove speakers are: • Heather Chirtea, a pilot, entrepreneur and early flying-car owner who will explore what emerging forms of transportation could mean for the future of mobility. • Mark Stross, a technologist examining the relationship between people, innovation and rapidly evolving technologies. • Dr. Krishna Athal, a leadership scholar exploring influence, human behavior and how leadership can operate beyond visibility or traditional authority. • Dr. Kathleen Stross, a physical therapist and health practitioner whose work examines human behavior, nervous-system responses and how people approach challenges and change. • Dr. Sunita Punjabi, a neuropsychologist and researcher exploring neuroplasticity, human behavior, resilience and the relationship between the brain and everyday experiences. • David “BullDog” Rothner, a longtime Ocean City radio personality and former commodities broker who will challenge assumptions behind the words “I can’t” and consider what becomes possible by instead asking, “Why not?” • Kim Kelley, a systems strategist ex-

Aswini Jagadeesh, DDS, MAGD

SEPTEMBER 18, 2026

OC Today-Dispatch

PAGE 31

Speaker series set for Friday amining how incomplete information, assumptions and misunderstandings can shape responses to complex problems. • Eric Rittmeyer, a former U.S. Marine who draws on lessons in human behavior, emotional intelligence and personal development to examine how people think, communicate and live. • John Huffington, a justice advocate who spent 32 years in Maryland’s prison system while maintaining his innocence and now brings his experience to law enforcement education and discussions about wrongful convictions, assumptions and justice. • Paula Morris, an advocate focusing on brain health and its relationship to individual and community well-being. • Tony Myers, a sustainability professional exploring practical approaches to environmental responsibility and the systems shaping a more sustainable future. • Scott Rosenfeld, a lighting professional examining how created environments can influence how people see, experience and interact with the world around them. • Chrissy Ehrhart, a wellness entrepreneur exploring approaches to health, well-being and human potential. • Jason Jurey, an educator focused on environmental issues and the role education can play in protecting the natural world. • Matthew Kern, a chef and restaurateur who will bring the perspectives of hospitality, creativity and human connection to the TEDx stage. • Mike Rucker, a behavioral scientist examining human behavior and the science behind how people experience and pursue enjoyment and well-being. • Nick McNulty, an electric vehicle infrastructure professional working at the intersection of transportation, technology and the systems needed to support an evolving mobility landscape. • Kristen LaRose, an advocate focused on women’s health and the experiences shaping broader discussions about health and well-being. • Marc Rohleder, a technology strategist working in wireless and private-network infrastructure and examining the connectivity behind an increasingly connected world. Organizers report the wide range of subjects is an important part of the TEDx experience, giving attendees an opportunity to hear ideas outside their own industries, experiences and areas of expertise. Following Friday’s programming, EVolution Expo sponsors, vendors, and VIP ticket holders will gather for a welcome party at Seacrets from 6-8 p.m. E-Volution Expo E-Volution Expo opens to the public Saturday, September 19, from 10 a.m.– 5 p.m. and Sunday, September 20, from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. at the Roland E. Powell Convention Center. The Expo brings together businesses, See EXPO Page 33

Direct: 443-386-3177 • Kimheaneyrealtor@gmail.com

kimberlyheaney.penfedrealty.com

410-520-2600 x112413 9748 Stephen Decatur Hwy, Suite #109 Ocean City, MD 21842

MUST-SEE BEACH-STYLE HOME in SERENE, NATURAL SETTING OPEN HOUSE SATURDAY, SEPT. 19TH 10 AM - NOON

582 OCEAN PARKWAY • OCEAN PINES Turn-key Single Family 3 Bedroom, 2.5 Bath, 1,392 Sq. Ft. Home in Desirable Community. Open Living Space, Generously Sized Primary Ensuite, LVP Flooring, Screened-in Porch & Upper-Level Sundeck. MDWO2039622

Listed at $494,900 ©2026 BHH Affiliates, LLC. An independently owned and operated franchisee of BHH Affiliates, LLC. Berkshire HomesServices and the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices symbol are registered service marks of Columbia Insurance Company, a Berkshire Hathaway affiliate. Equal Housing Opportunity.

PAGE 32

OC Today-Dispatch

SEPTEMBER 18, 2026

OC Today-Dispatch

SEPTEMBER 18, 2026

Expo bringing flying car to OC Continued from Page 31 innovators, experts, and attendees around emerging technologies and ideas spanning transportation, technology, sustainability, health and wellness, and the evolving ways people live, work, and move. Among the weekend’s featured experiences is BlackFly, an innovative personal aircraft often described as a flying car. Attendees will have an opportunity to see BlackFly up close, learn about the aircraft, meet members of the Soar Tour team, and take photos during Expo hours. Attendees will also be able to get behind the wheel during an EV + Hybrid Ride & Drive, with test-drive experiences available Saturday and Sunday. In addition to advanced transportation, like a flying car demonstration, the event highlights personal health and wellness: • Life Med Institute will feature a large interactive booth offering health and wellness screenings, information on supplements and blood panels, and product giveaways. • TidalHealth will be onsite with its community healthcare network to educate and engage visitors on traditional healthcare options and wellness management. Daily expert panel discussions and interactive Q&A sessions will be hosted by "Coach" from Ocean 98 radio. Featured speakers will be: • Mark Stross, discussing artificial intelligence and its impact on the future. • Kathleen Stross, speaking on neuroplasticity and leveraging the power of the brain. • Dr. Krishna Athal, traveling from India to present strategies on finding purpose after achieving lifelong milestones. The expo will also function as a home technology showcase. Schell Brothers will present smart home design and construction technologies, while Crawl Space Ninjas will demonstrate home air quality control systems. Environmental sustainability exhibits include a step-by-step composting showcase by Go Green, alongside displays from Spartan Solar, Robot Labs, Alpine Electronics, Yoga Vibz, and Mowze Robotic Lawn Mowers. Saturday Night Light Show Saturday concludes with one of the weekend’s largest visual attractions: a synchronized Tesla Light Show in the main parking lot of the Roland E. Powell Convention Center. More than 150 Tesla vehicles are expected to participate, creating a coordinated nighttime display of vehicle lights and technology. The show is scheduled for 9:00–9:30 PM Saturday, September 19. Throughout the Expo, attendees can explore additional exhibitors, demonstrations, technology, wellness experiences, sustainability-focused products and other interactive activations.

PAGE 33

4 BR | 3.5 BA in Gated Golf & Waterfront Community 11635 Maid At Arms Lane • Glen Riddle

C 410.430.1575 O 410.524.7000 mnichols@luxuryshoreliving.com www.luxuryshoreliving.com

Live by the Water... OWN THE VIEW!

Mechelle Nichols Local Expertise - Extraordinary Results A Member of the franchise system of BHH Affiliates, LLC

INDIAN FLAVORS GLOBAL HEARTS

DINE RELAX CELEBRATE Good Food | Good People | Great Vibes

More Just Than al a Me

AT THE CURRY CULTURE

GOOD FOOD BRING S PEOPL E TOGET HER

Great Food | Good Company | Memorable Moments 13707 Coastal Hwy, Ocean City, MD 21842, United States

+1 410-213-4159

PAGE 34

OC Today-Dispatch

SEPTEMBER 18, 2026

Ice Cream Cakes Seasonal Flavors Pints & Quarts to Go Gift Cards Available 120 N. Main St. 410-973-2839 www.islandcreamery.net

FRIDAY SEPTEMBER 18TH 2PM-6PM

Worcester County Arts Council 6 Jefferson Street Berlin, MD

For more details, visit BerlinChamber.org

worcestercountyartscouncil.org

We’re Not Fiddling Around - Come See Us!

Where Your Treasure Awaits

Home Decor & Gifts Jewelry Holiday Decor • Toys Vintage Vinyl Souvenirs & More

1 North Main Street • Historic Downtown Berlin • 410-629-1895

OC Today-Dispatch

SEPTEMBER 18, 2026

Una Bella Salute "Beautiful Health"

PAGE 35

BEST TOY STORE!

Extra Virgin Olive Oil & Balsamic Vinegar & More Visit Our Tasting Room to Sample Our Many Varieties!

New Merchandise Great Gifts! Located at 6 South Main St. • Berlin, MD 21811 Ph 410-641-2300

www.unabellasalute.com

115 N. Main St.

Open 10AM-6PM Monday-Saturday Sunday 11AM-3PM

Educational Toys, Games, Puzzles, Art Supplies, Lego and More

410-641-0601

Come See What’s New! N Design Center & Showroom Furniture Unique Home Accessories Lighting • Jewelry • Gifts & Much More

Fabulous Gifts and Homee Décor

Come See What’s New! 22 William Street • Berlin 410- 629-1188 Open Tues-Sat 10am-5pm

18 North Main Sttreet

WHY LIVE ORDINARY.

BRUDER HILL

25 Commerce St.

10 North Main Street, Berlin

410-641-2131

PAGE 36

OC Today-Dispatch

SEPTEMBER 18, 2026

Juried exhibition winners named

OPEN MONDAY-WEDNESDAY 2PM THURSDAY-SUNDAY 11:30AM OPEN YEAR-ROUND EVERY DAY 8TH STREET & PHILADELPHIA AVE. 410-289-4891 • PICKLESOC.COM 8TH ST. LIQUORS OPEN EVERY DAY

SUNDAY FUNDAY TIL’ 3PM $5 BLOODY MARYS, MIMOSAS, SCREWDRIVERS & $7 TULLY BREAKFAST SHOTS LATE NIGHT HAPPY HOUR 10PM

HAPPINESS MONDAY-FRIDAY 3-6PM

MONDAY TIL’ 6PM 1/2 PRICE WINGS & $4.50 KONA DRAFTS

............................ TUESDAY TIL’ 6PM $4 MODELO, $6 MILAGRO MARGARITAS, $2.25 BEEF & CHICKEN TACOS, 25% OFF QUESADILLAS & NACHOS

............................

WEDNESDAY TIL’ 6PM 1/2-PRICE 1/2lb CHARBROILED BURGERS, $4 KICK THE KEG & $5 LOCAL BEERS

............................

(Food Specials With Purchase Of Beverage Some Restrictions Apply)

FRIDAY 9:30PM

Beats By DeoGee $6 ORANGE CRUSHES, TULLY GREEN TEA & PICKLE BACKS

............................ SATURDAY 9PM

Marlin City Madmen ............................ SUNDAY 9:30PM LATE NIGHT HAPPY HOUR

............................ MONDAY 9:30PM

Karaoke w/ Wood $4 CORONAS, KONAS & GRENADES ............................

TUESDAY 9:30PM

Beats By Wax $2 NATTY-12oz, $2.50 BUSCH LIGHT-16oz, $4 NATTY-25oz, $4.50 WHITE CLAW & NUTRL, $5 FIREBALL, SAMBUCA & OLD SMOKEY WATERMELON

............................

WEDNESDAY 9:30PM

(Sept. 18, 2026) The Worcester County Arts Council has announced the award winners of “Artist’s Voice,” a special juried exhibition presented in celebration of the Arts Council’s 50 Years of Art, Community, and Connections. Awards were presented during the exhibition’s opening reception on Sept. 11 at the WCAC Gallery in Berlin. Featuring photography and threedimensional artwork, “Artist’s Voice” celebrates the individual perspectives, experiences, and creative expressions of artists. Awards were presented separately in Photography and Three-Dimensional Art, with First, Second, and Third Place honors as well as Honorable Mentions. Photography, juried by local fine artist and commercial photographer Don Lehman, recognized Erik Slavin with First Place for Orange Hajib; Lisa

SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH

Award winners of “Artist’s Voice” show were, from left, Nancy Rider, Leah Kalasky, Eric Slavin, John Waters, Mitzi Ash, Joan Slavin, Bill Wollf, Mona Margarita, Don Lehman and Cheryl Taylor.

Kane Leo with Second Place for A Hero; and Mitzi Ash with Third Place for Forever Protected. Honorable Mentions were awarded to Erik Slavin for Budapest Street Scene, Tia Tuvesson for A New Little Friend, and Nancy Rinder for Near the Dock of the Bay. Three-Dimensional Art, juried by

Bill Wolff, Associate Professor, head of the sculpture program, and Art Department Chair at Salisbury University, recognized Tia Tuvesson with First Place for Love to Watch from Surf, a mixedmedia sculpture; Jason Giusti with Second Place for Salacia, blown glass; and Leah Kalasky with Third Place for Mandala #003, an assemblage. Honorable Mentions were presented to Cheryl Taylor for Jackie, fused glass; John Waters for Blue Crab Flag Platter, ceramic; and Mona Margarita for Transformation, created with cicada wings in resin. “Artist’s Voice is especially meaningful during our 50th Anniversary because it celebrates what has always been at the heart of the Arts Council, giving artists a place to express themselves and share their individual perspectives with our community,” said Anna Mullis, executive director of the Worcester County Arts Council. “We congratulate all of our award recipients and thank every participating artist for trusting us with their work and their creative voice.” WCAC extends its appreciation to jurors Don Lehman and Bill Wolff for sharing their expertise and thoughtful perspectives in selecting this year’s award recipients. “Artist’s Voice” remains on view through November 1, 2026, at the Worcester County Arts Council Gallery, 6 Jefferson Street in Berlin. The public is invited to visit the Gallery and experience the diverse creative voices represented in this special anniversary exhibition. For more information, visit www.worcestercountyartscouncil.org or call 410-641-0809.

WINDSORTEAK.com Offers...

THURSDAY 7PM

TEAK FURNITURE RESTORATION SERVICES

Oceans Calling Kickoff Dale & The ZDubs, Michael Sky & Stratus Fear w/ Beats by Connair

September thru March Limited Availability Reservations Recommended

$2.50 HIGH LIFE BOTTLES, $3 PICKLE SHOTS, $20 BUCKETS (4) OF ALL TEAS, SELTZERS & SPIKED AID

$3.25 DOMESTIC BOTTLES, $4.50 IMPORT BOTTLES & $5 BOMBS

1300 Coastal Hwy, Fenwick Island, DE 19944 877-323-TEAK (8325)

SEPTEMBER 18, 2026

OC Today-Dispatch

PAGE 37

OC Today-Dispatch

PAGE 38

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 Monday through Wednesday, 4-9 p.m. and Thursday through Sunday, 11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. Call for banquet and large-party details. ■ PICKLES PUB 706 Philadelphia Ave., Ocean City, 410289-4891, picklesoc.com $$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar Easy to find with plenty of free parking, serving lunch, dinner and entire diverse menu until 1 a.m. Also nightly entertainment yearround and a great place to watch all the sports on an ocean of televisions including a giant high-def screen. Also four pool tables on site. Lunch and dinner and entire menu until 1 a.m. Open all year from 11:30 a.m.-2 a.m., seven days a week. ■ PIT & PUB 2706 Philadelphia Ave. and 12701 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, pitandpub.com Ocean City’s home of Pulled Pork and the finest barbecue, the legendary 28th Street Pit & Pub and the Northside Pit & Pub are known for serving up delicious smokehouse specialties. Grab a brew and enjoy the live sports action on one of the big screen TVs. Happy hour daily. Family-friendly atmospheres at both locations. Weekend entertainment. ■ THE WEDGE BAR 806 S. Atlantic Ave, Ocean City www.thewedgeoc.com $-$$ | Full bar Panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean, bay and Assateague Island. Enjoy small plates, sandwiches and grilled burgers. Open every day, 11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m.

MIDTOWN

29th to 90th streets ■ 32 PALM 32nd Street in The Hilton, Ocean City 410289-2525, 32palm.com $$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar Elevated cuisine, locally sourced ingredients and allocated spirits are prominently featured in our lounge and dining room. Open year-round for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Routinely updated menus with the highest quality local ingredients for fresh seafood any time of the year! ■ THE BONFIRE 71st Street, Coastal Hwy., Ocean City, 410524-7171, thebonfirerestaurant.com Celebrating more than 50 years as the best seafood and prime rib buffet in Ocean City. It’s all here – the service, the atmosphere and finest, freshest seafood available and quality meats. Save room for the decadent desserts available as well including homemade donuts. ■ COCONUTS BEACH BAR & GRILL 3701 Atlantic Ave., Ocean City, 410-2896846, castleinthesand.com A tropical open-air patio steps from the beach. A unique place for lunch or dinner with a menu featuring all the customary items and a few Ocean City-based surprises. Guests can also enjoy beach service for lunch and cocktails. Be sure to check out the daily entertainment schedule. ■ FAGERS ISLAND 201 60th St., Ocean City, 410-524-5500, fagers.com

SEPTEMBER 18, 2026

$$ | Full bar Dine on the island with an award-winning bayfront restaurant featuring American & Regional dining with a global influence and popular destination featuring impeccably prepared American and Pacific Rim cuisine. Also enjoy our outdoor decks and bar with live entertainment and 32 wines by the glass. A place where the joy of food & the presence of the table are of utmost importance. Dine on fresh seafood and our famous Prime Rib. Enjoy beautiful sunsets over the water. Open 11 a.m. daily. Fine dine at 4:30 p.m. ■ HOOKED 8003 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, 410723-4665, hookedoc.com $$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar A Common Ground Hospitality concept, a passion driven restaurant group servicing the coastal community. The goal is honor creativity and innovation by design. With passion at the heart of everything, unique dining concepts are paired with honest hospitality and well-made food sourced with fresh local ingredients and seasonal harvests. Craft and full bar available. Open daily 11:30 a.m. ■ LONGBOARD CAFÉ 6701 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, 443664-5693, longboardcafe.com $$-$$$ | Full bar Casual Dining … Refined. Open for lunch and dinner. A wide range of gourmet burgers, innovative tacos, salads and sandwiches to full dinner entrees featuring fresh local fish prepared in a variety of styles, beef, shellfish and pasta. All our sauces, salsas, dressings, etc. are meticulously house made. We use fresh local sources wherever possible and premium ingredients such as our chuck, brisket and short rib custom blended burgers. Closed Tuesday. Call for reservations. ■ MARLIN MOON RESTAURANT 3301 Atlantic Ave., in the Double Tree Hotel, Ocean City 410-289-1201, marlinmoonocmd.com $$ | Full bar Winner of the Maryland People's choice award, Marlin Moon continues to offer its famous, locally loved dishes and famous happy hour. Enjoy creatively crafted cocktails, fresh selections from the raw bar and luscious desserts. Happy Hour, every day, 3-6 p.m., featuring drink specials. Breakfast, 7:30-11:30 a.m.; Lite Fare, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.; Dinner, 4-10 p.m.; and Bar open noon to 11 p.m. ■ SEACRETS 49th Street, Ocean City 410-524-4900, www.seacrets.com $$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar Open Sunday through Friday at 11 a.m., 10 a.m. on Saturdays, close at 2 a.m. Enjoy a tropical atmosphere and dine under the palms in our outdoor, kid friendly dining area or try a Seacrets Beachin' Cocktails in the Bay with live music every day open to close. The club is open every night in the summer. Try our famous jerk chicken with homemade honey mustard sauce, Pushcart Trio, a true Jamaican dish or a hearty wrap, sandwich or delicious burger. We have it all at Seacrets.

UPTOWN

91st to 146th streets ■ 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. Win-

ter 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 Today-Dispatch

SEPTEMBER 18, 2026

COMMUNITY BRIEFS

PAGE 39

Kathryn Landon "Katie" Sales Associate, Licensed in MD & DE

Contests about to launch As students return to school, Ocean City Elks Lodge is launching its 2026–2027 Americanism Essay and Poster contests. These programs are designed to encourage patriotism while inspiring awareness, pride, and respect for our nation among today’s youth. This year’s Americanism Essay Contest theme is “Explain a Constitutional Right or Privilege and How It Affects You and Your Family.” The contest is open to middle school students within the Lodge’s service area. The Poster Contest theme is “My Favorite American Symbol.” It is open to young people ages 3–17, with entries judged by age group. Please note that the use of artificial intelligence (AI) is strictly prohibited in both contests. Elks members who own businesses or lead nonprofit organizations are invited to support these programs by donating money, gift cards, or other items suitable as awards for first-, second-, and third-place winners. Donors will be recognized through the Lodge’s communication network. Members with children or grandchildren who may be interested in participating are also encouraged to contact the committee for complete contest details. For more information or to make a donation, please contact Public Rela-

tions & Americanism Committee Chair Debbie Brune at dbrune53@gmail.com or 410-4302912 or Vickie Del Grosso at Vikivale2u@gmail.com or 410913-1064. Thank you for helping us encourage patriotism and creativity in our local youth.

302-236-5738 katie.landon@cbmove.com www.katielandon.com

BEAUTIFUL 3 BR, 2.5 BA TOWNHOME OPEN HOUSE SATURDAY, 11AM-1PM

W NE IN G T S I L

953 YACHT CLUB DRIVE

MARINA VILLAGE • OCEAN PINES

Charming townhome in desirable community. Perfect for year-round living or a coastal getaway. 1-car garage, durable hard-surface flooring on stairs, hallway & guest BR & a bright sunroom. Freshly updated rear deck overlooks peaceful wooded backdrop. Spacious primary suite has ensuite BA, unique double-sided fireplace & private deck. Main level family room with fireplace, separate dining area & eat-in kitchen. Walk to Ocean Pines Yacht Club, Mumford's Landing Pool & Pines Point Provisions - some of the most popular amenities at your doorstep. Don't miss the opportunity to own this wonderful townhome that perfectly blends $479,900 convenience, comfort & coastal charm.

Indoor track unavailable The indoor track and batting cage at the Worcester County Recreation Center will be unavailable to walkers from until mid- to late October while Worcester County Recreation and Parks (WCRP) completes an HVAC replacement project. During construction, walkers may use the area inside the dasher boards during standard operating hours when programs are not scheduled: • Monday–Friday: 6–8 a.m. • Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday: 1–3 p.m. • Sept. 19: 9 a.m.–3 p.m. • Sept. 26: 11 a.m.–3 p.m. • Thursdays: No afternoon walking • Sundays: No walking due to scheduled programs Additional times may become available on short notice depending on facility use. Walkers should call 410-632-2144 to confirm availability. Residents may also use the new 1.2-mile walking trail at John Walter Smith Park during the construction period.

12207 Coastal Hwy • Ste D • Ocean City, 21842 Office: 410-524-1203 • M: 302-236-5738

FAIRFIELD at LONGNECK MILLSBORO, DE 19966 3 OPEN HOUSE EVENTS SUNDAY, NOON-2PM

35596 N GLOUCESTER CIRCLE

3 Bedroom, 2.5 Bath Townhome with Hardwood Floors

305,000

26740 CHATHAM LANE

3 Bedroom, 2.5 Bath Townhome with Loft

349,900

26738 CHATHAM LANE

3 Bedroom, 2.5 Bath Townhome with Sunroom & More

347,500

WATERFRONT 4 BR, 2.5 BA HOME with 2-CAR GARAGE

R ATE

F RO

24 STACY COURT

TERNS LANDING • OCEAN PINES

4-bedroom, 3.5-bath end-unit townhome is move-in ready & designed for comfort & versatility. 2 spacious primary bedrooms—one on the 1st floor & another on the 2nd —each with its own private en-suite bath, making it ideal for multi-generational living or hosting guests. Additional living space in the bright 3-season room. Unwind outdoors on the custom paver patio with a sitting area, perfect for relaxing or entertaining. Desirable end-unit location offers added privacy & natural light throughout. This sought-after community is just minutes from beaches, shopping, dining & more! The perfect balance of coastal living & everyday convenience. $

1,300,000

Summer Rentals Gone, Ocean’s & Country Calling Coming… SOON! Time to Refresh! Carpet: Soiled Upholstery: Dingy LVP and Tile: Yuck Call today to get on the schedule, don’t make your guests or renters suffer. 302-436-5652 • 800-554-5900 BRASURESCARPETCARE.COM Locally owned & operated, serving OC since 1983

PAGE 40

Who’s Where When BURLEY OAK BREWING COMPANY 443-513-4647 10016 Old Ocean City Blvd., Berlin Fri., Sept. 18: TBA

OC Today-Dispatch

Best Beats DARIN ENGH Coconuts Beach Bar: Fri., Sept. 18

DJ BIGLER Harborside: Saturdays

CAPTAIN’S TABLE 410-289-7192 15th & Boardwalk In The Courtyard Marriott Fridays & Saturdays: Phil Perdue

COCONUTS BEACH BAR 410-289-6846 Oceanfront At Castle In The Sand Hotel 37th & 38th Streets Fri., Sept. 18: Darin Engh & Coastal Groove Sat., Sept. 19: Lime Green Duo & Cecilia’s Fall Sun., Sept. 20: Margot & Val & Catch The Drift Mon., Sept. 21: Sean Loomis & The Rogue Citizens Tues., Sept. 22: Jess Arms & Johnny Cardo Wed., Sept. 23: Medium Wave Jay & The Dunehounds Thurs., Sept. 24: Bill Dickson & Kevin Poole & Joe Mama COINS PUB 410-289-3100 28th Street Plaza On Coastal Hwy. Fri, Sept. 18: Cup Of Joe Sat., Sept. 19: Jim Long & Identity Crisis CRABCAKE FACTORY BAYSIDE 302-988-5000 37314 Lighthouse Rd., Rte. 54, Selbyville, DE Fri., Sept. 18: Brian Bishop Tues., Sept. 22: C-Miller Wed., Sept. 23: Jack Bannon FAGER’S ISLAND 410-524-5500 60th St., In The Bay Fri., Sept. 18: John Frase Project, Jumper & DJ Stinson Sat., Sept. 19: Making Waves, DJ Groove & Vertigo Red

DJ GROOVE Fager’s Island: Sat., Sept. 19

On The Beach

BUXY’S SALTY DOG & DRY DOCK 28 410-289-BUXY 28th Street Coastal Hwy. Sat., Sept. 19: Muskrat Lightning

CARIBBEAN POOL BAR 410-289-6181 In The Plim Plaza Hotel 109 N. Atlantic Ave. Fri., Sept. 18: TBA

SEPTEMBER 18, 2026

VERTIGO RED Fager’s Island: Saturday, September 19

PHIL PERDUE Captain’s Table: Fridays & Saturdays

BRIAN BISHOP Crabcake Factory Bayside: Fri., Sept. 18

CUP OF JOE Coins Pub: Fri., Sept. 18

DJ BILLY T Harborside: Fridays

AWAKEN Purple Moose: Friday & Saturday, September 18 & 19

JIM LONG Coins Pub: Sat., Sept. 19

BEATS BY DEOGEE Pickles Pub: Fridays

STEAL THE SKY Seacrets: Friday, September 18

SEAN LOOMIS Coconuts Beach Bar: Mon., Sept. 21

JACK BANNON Crabcake Factory Bayside: Wed., Sept. 23

DALE & THE ZDUBS Pickles Pub: Thursday, September 24

DJ WAX Pickles Pub: Tuesdays Seacrets: Thurs., Sept. 24

SEPTEMBER 18, 2026

OC Today-Dispatch

PAGE 41

Who’s Where When Mon., Sept. 21: Deck Party - TBA & DJ Stinson Tues., Sept. 22: Saltwater Sweat Line Dancing

MUSKRAT LIGHTNING Buxy’s Dry Dock: Saturday, September 19

MARGOT & VAL Coconuts Beach Bar: Sunday, September 20

FISH TALES 410-289-0990 22nd Street & The Bay Sun., Sept. 20: Colossal Fossil Sauce HARBORSIDE 410-213-1846 South Harbor Rd., West End O.C. Fridays: DJ Billy T Sat., Sept. 19: Mercury Agenda & DJ Bigler Sun., Sept. 20: Opposite Directions Wednesdays: DJ Billy T Thursdays: Dust N Bones

ON THE EDGE Jolly Jellyfish Beach Club: Sunday, September 20

INDENTITY CRISIS Coins Pub: Saturday, September 19

ROGUE CITIZENS Coconuts Beach Bar: Monday, September 21

JUMPER Fager’s Island: Friday, September 18

STRATUS FEAR W/ MICHAEL SKY Pickles Pub: Thursday, September 24

THE WAY OUTS Seacrets: Saturday, September 19

MERCURY AGENDA Harborside: Saturday, September 19

OPPOSITE DIRECTIONS Harborside: Sundays

JOLLY JELLYFISH BEACH CLUB 443-664-6147 98th Street Coastal Hwy., Plaza Condominium Fri., Sept. 18: TBA Sat., Sept. 19: Red Sky Dawn Sun., Sept. 20: On The Edge PICKLES PUB 410-289-4891 8th Street & Philadelphia Ave. Fri., Sept. 18: Beats By DeoGee Sat., Sept. 19: Marlin City Madmen Mon., Sept. 21: Karaoke w/ Wood Tuesdays: Beats By Wax Thurs, Sept. 24: Beats By Connair Dale & The ZDubs, Michael Sky & Stratus Fear PURPLE MOOSE SALOON 410-289-6953 Between Caroline & Talbot Streets On The Boards Fri., Sept. 18: Awaken & DJ Sat., Sept. 19: Awaken & DJ Papi Thursdays: DJ Papi SEACRETS 410-524-4900 49th Street & Coastal Hwy. Fri., Sept. 18: John McNutt Duo, DJ Davie, DJ E-State & Steal The Sky Sat., Sept. 19: Bansy, The Way Outs, DJ Connair DJ Davie & The Alibis Thurs, Sept. 24: Carley Twigg, DJ Davie & DJ Wax

PAGE 42

OC Today-Dispatch

SEPTEMBER 18, 2026

Art league to host night of original artistic expression (Sept. 18, 2026) The Art League of Ocean City invites the community to “Originals Only: No Covers, Just Creators,” a free evening celebrating authentic, original creative expression on Saturday, Sept. 19, from 6-8 p.m. Held at the Art League of Ocean City, the event brings together poets, comedians, musicians, writers, and performers for an evening devoted entirely to original work. No covers, no routines—just fresh, personal, and unfiltered creative expression. The evening will feature a diverse lineup of performers: • Unusual Suspects — This original music duo, based in the Washington, D.C., area, brings together two veteran performers whose musical backgrounds span a variety of popular music genres. • Sherri Bale — A talented writer of fiction and essays, Bale will share original stories that celebrate the power of the written word and the art of storytelling. • Thayer Brothers — Three songwriters come together as one group to perform original songs ranging from

PAGE 43

OC Today-Dispatch

melancholy reflections to celebrations of life’s brighter moments. Their music features guitar, harp, rich harmonies, and award-winning songwriting. • Bouzouki Americana — Blending rock, country, and pop, Bouzouki Americana performs original songs on the Irish bouzouki, an eightstringed instrument in the mandolin family. With heartfelt performances and thoughtful lyrics, the group offers a distinctive musical perspective on life, love, and the Eastern Shore. “Originals Only” provides a welcoming stage for creators to share work drawn from their own experiences, imaginations, and unique voices. Audiences can expect an eclectic, inspiring evening of one-ofa-kind performances. The event is free and open to everyone, and snacks will be provided. Advance registration is preferred. For more information or to register, visit canvas.artleagueofoceancity.org/events/40 or call 410524-9433.

“KING OF THE WIND” 48th Annual Ocean City Kite Festival September 17th thru September 20th On The Boardwalk & Beach (5 Blocks Of Fun South From 6th Street)

Sunfest returning to Ocean City weekend of Oct. 22-25 (Sept. 18, 2026) Sunfest will be returning to the Ocean City inlet and boardwalk from Thursday, Oct. 22 through Sunday, Oct. 25. Celebrating over five decades of traditions, Sunfest brings together four action-packed days of world-class musical entertainment, handcrafted artisan showcases, delicious regional cuisine, and unforgettable family activities along the Atlantic shoreline. Admission to the festival grounds and daytime Inlet stage performances remains completely free to the public. Music lovers are in for an extraordinary lineup featuring 20 acts from around the globe across two live stages at the inlet, delivering a diverse range of styles including rock, country, R&B, fusion, and popular hits. All performances at the inlet stages are free to attend, and highlighted by crowd-favorite performers such as Surfer Girl, The Amish Outlaws, and Luke Borchelt. In addition, the Ocean City Performing Arts Center (PAC) will host three headline ticketed evening concerts at 7 p.m. The PAC concert series opens Thursday, Oct. 22 with Elton Dan and the Rocket Band, continues Friday, Oct. 23 with Live & Let Die: A Tribute to Paul McCartney, and wraps up Saturday, Oct. 24 with Black Tie Optional: A Tribute to Michael Bublé & Beyond. Beyond the stage, Sunfest offers a rich array of arts, crafts, and interactive events for attendees of all ages. Master artisans and artists from across the region will fill the festival tents with

a wide variety of unique, handmade art spanning multiple mediums (attendees can check the official website for full vendor listings). The weekend is packed with signature activities, including cozy Beach Bonfires, festive Tractor Rides, the whimsical Drive in Disguise parade, and the high-flying Delmarva Dock Dogs competition. Health and wellness enthusiasts can start their morning with "Rise and Shine" Peaceful Beach Yoga on Saturday and Sunday from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m., while bike fans won't want to miss the Beach Bicycle Show-N-Shine on Sunday, Oct. 25, from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Completing the festival experience, Sunfest 2026 features an exceptional lineup of food and drink options, highlighted by the popular Wine on the Beach. Held as a ticketed event inside the Sunfest grounds on Friday, Oct. 23 and Saturday, October 24 from 11:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. (with wine sampling open until 6 p.m.), Wine on the Beach gives guests the opportunity to sample regional vintages, taste craft spirits, and take-home souvenir glasses. To satisfy every craving, attendees can grab a bite from a wide selection of food vendors offering everything from classic Eastern Shore seafood delicacies to traditional boardwalk favorites throughout all four days of the festival. For event schedules, vendor maps, and complete festival details, visit ococean.com/sunfest or follow @OceanCityMaryland on social media for real-time updates.

Fun For The Entire Family Welcome to Ocean City

See the skyline of Ocean City explode with color at this weekend’s Sunfest Kite Festival, on the famous downtown boardwalk. Celebrating its 47th year, this world class event is recognized as one of the top 100 most popular venues on the planet. All are welcome to witness and participate in general kite flying, kite flying games, Bol races, candy drops, sport kite demos, or just plain kite spectating. AND IT’S FREE! You can expect to see a ton of new giant kites from Mermaids, Hippocampus, Angels, Octopuses, Alligators, Trilobites, Mel the giant Whale, Whisper the Winged Horse, Dragons, Woodstock, Snoopy and on and on. This will certainly pack Ocean City’s famous Boardwalk with spectators. In addition, there will be quad line demos throughout the festival. Quad kites are four-line kites flown in formation, much like the Thunderbirds. Several times during the festival we will have as many as 16 quad flyers standing side by side, flying to music, all in perfect formation. Be sure to bring the kids down for the Candy Drops where we drop candy from a large kite. We will do several of these on both Saturday and Sunday. Over the course of 4 days, you can expect to see the following taking place all day long: Giant Kite Air Show Sport Kite and Quad Kite Demos Kite Trains Free Sport Kite Lessons • Candy Drops Giant Bubble Show • Running of the Bols For More Information, Please Call The Kite Loft At 410-289-7855 Or Go To The Web At www.kiteloft.com

PAGE 44

OC Today-Dispatch

SEPTEMBER 18, 2026

END OF SUMMER SALE! Shop your favorite brands on sale now!

Nalu Kai Apparel Now 50% OFF!

Quiet Storm Swim NOW 50% OFF!

Nalu Kai Swim Now 50% OFF!

OCEAN CITY / REHOBOTH / VIRGINIA BEACH / CHARLESTON / HILTON HEA

OC Today-Dispatch

SEPTEMBER 18, 2026

END OF SUMMER SALE! Soak up the sun and savings!

Big End Of Summer Sale!* Branded Apparel Summer Sale NOW 50% OFF!

• Unisex Fleece $20 OFF* • Women’s Fleece $20 OFF* • Men’s Hybrids $20 OFF* • Men’s Vollies 50% OFF* • Men’s Button Ups 50% OFF* • S/S T-Shirts $5 OFF* • Sandals 50%OFF* Men’s & Women’s Styles

• Tech Shirts $20 OFF* Hooded

• Hats $10 OFF* NOW OPEN: MIDTOWN 75th STREET 410-847-7000 123rd STREET / 410-390-5603 THE BOARDWALK / 410-289-7000 Shop your Quiet Storm favorites online @ QuietStorm.com The Big Summer Sale applies to our Quiet Storm gear only.* New Quiet Storm Mock necks excluded from promotions. Brands excluded from sale: All Fall merchandise, Vuori & Free People.

Quiet Storm Fleece $20 OFF!

D / MYRTLE BEACH / DELRAY BEACH / FT. LAUDERDALE / KEY WEST

PAGE 45

PAGE 46

OC Today-Dispatch

SEPTEMBER 18, 2026

FOOD FOR THOUGHT

A harvest chicken pot pie for fall By Deborah Lee Walker Contributing Writer (Sept. 18, 2026) Wisdom is an insight that comes with maturity. At the age of 68, I finally realize Grandma’s Sheiler’s secret to cooking. Whether her pies would have taken top honors is secondary. What’s important is she cooked with love, and that is what made her meals memorable. Savory pies have tipped the scales of popularity and are getting more trendy as time passes. Chicken pot pies are an American classic. The buttery, flaky crust pairs beautifully with the fragrant, creamy sauce and ten-

der chunks of chicken. But chicken pot pies have come a long way, and a new wave of creativity takes this humble dish to new levels of taste and texture. . White or dark meat is a discussion. Breast meat can be on the dry side, so dark or a combination of both is worth consideration. Onions are an aromatic and necessary for chicken pot pie. Shallots, scallions, and leeks are another option which is always a good thing. Wild mushrooms combined with chicken and adds sophistication. Mushrooms have a tendency to shrink as they cook, so increase the amount so they do not get lost in the pie. Butternut squash, parsnips, or turnips give the pie more heartiness

and parlay with the theme of fall. Dry sherry and a little Dijon mustard will perk up the sauce and give it more depth of flavor. Choosing the right pastry is key for a successful pie. Contrary to popular belief there are no right answers, just an abundance of possibilities that depend on the individual chef. Some cooks prefer a top and bottom layer of dough. There are those loyalists who will defend a drop biscuit topping till the very end. There is a wave of modernism that embraces the convenience and embellishment of puff pastry. In closing, mise en place is highly recommended. There are a lot of steps, so if all of the ingredients are arranged in advance, the recipe flows faster.

302-539-7156 • 1406 COASTAL HWY, FENWICK ISLAND, DE

A harvest chicken pot pie is yummy and packed with goodness. Enjoy! Ingredients 3 ½ cups chicken broth, divided 2 pounds deboned chicken thighs 2 tablespoons olive oil ½ leek, chopped 2 cloves garlic, minced ½ cup celery, chopped ½ cup dry white wine 1 cup combined frozen peas and carrots 1 cup butternut squash, peeled and cubed 2 parsnips, peeled and coarsely chopped 2 cup wild mushroom 2 teaspoons dried sage 1 tablespoon dried thyme 1 teaspoon crushed dried rosemary pinch of cayenne pepper 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard kosher salt and black pepper to taste 6 tablespoons unsalted butter plus extra for the phyllo dough 1/3 cup flour 2 cups half and half 2 cups milk dry sherry to taste 18 sheets phyllo dough 6 (8-ounce) ramekins 1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees. 2. In a large saute pan over medium low heat, poach chicken in 2 cups of chicken broth until almost done. Coarsely shred with your hands and set aside. 3. Add olive oil to the saute pan, and increase heat to medium. Add onions, garlic, and celery, and saute for 5 minutes. 4. Add wine, peas, carrots, squash, parsnips, and mushrooms, and cook until squash and parsnips are fork tender. Stir in seasonings and Dijon mustard. 5. Add 6 tablespoons butter. Once it has melted, add flour until it is fully combined with pie mixture. Slowly pour in remaining chicken broth, cream, and milk. 6. Simmer for 5 minutes or until thickened. Remove from heat and add chicken and dry sherry to taste. Taste again for salt and pepper. 7. Divide chicken mixture evenly among 6 oven proof bowls. 8. Measure phyllo dough so there is enough phyllo to cover bowls with a 3-inch overhang. Otherwise, you will end up with too much dough. 9. Lay 3 sheets of phyllo dough flat on your counter and liberally brush with melted butter. Scrunch up the dough and place on top of the bowl filled with pie mixture. 10. Bake for 30 minutes or until golden brown and filling is hot. Secret Ingredient – Uniqueness Dare to Differ Matthew Goldfinger

SEPTEMBER 18, 2026

OC Today-Dispatch

PAGE 47

COMMUNITY/SCHOOLS

SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH

SUPPLIES DONATED BY TEAM Recently, the Worcester Preparatory School (WPS) Girls Soccer team collected new backpacks and filled them with essential school supplies to donate to Buckingham Elementary School in Berlin. This tradition began more than 15 years ago, started by alumna and former teammate Marissa Grosso (‘18). Today, Head Coach Carol Hartnett proudly continues the legacy each season, coordinating the effort in partnership with the WPS Volunteer Club. Above the team holds the backpacks they collected, filled with school supplies, before donating them to Buckingham Elementary School, located near WPS.

VOLUNTEER OF THE MONTH Kiwanis Club of Ocean Pines/Ocean City President Sarah Walker, left, presents Lynne Waugh with her Kiwanian of the Month award for September in recognition of Waugh’s work as chairperson of the club’s Membership Committee. Waugh helped bring nine new members into the club. SUBMITTED PHOTO/ OC TODAY-DISPATCH

SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH

STUDENTS REVIEW VALUES Students in Mrs. Kristick’s second grade class started the school year by reviewing Ocean City Elementary School’s values and sharing how they will respect themself, others, learning and the environment. Students pictured are Liya Tumkaya, Izzy Valerio, Matthew Genovesi, James Reynolds and Dayana Gonzalez.

ACADEMY GRADS Irving Bailey and Dante Byrd of the Worcester County Jail and Detention Center graduated in the 125th entrance-level class of the Eastern Shore Criminal Justice Academy operated by Wor-Wic Community College in Salisbury. SUBMITTED PHOTO/ OC TODAY-DISPATCH

PAGE 48

OC Today-Dispatch

SEPTEMBER 18, 2026

OC Today-Dispatch

PAGE 49

WPS student in running for National Merit Scholarship (Sept. 18, 2026) Worcester Preparatory School Head of School Dr. Betsy Hornung has announced senior Gavin Mann has been named a semifinalist in the 2027 National Merit Scholarship Program (NMSC). Approximately 16,000 students were selected as semifinalists out of 1.2 million juniors who entered the 2027 National Merit Scholarship Program by taking the 2025 Preliminary SAT. The nationwide pool of Semifinalists represents less than one percent of U.S. high school seniors. As a semifinalist, Mann has a chance to continue in the competition for approximately 6,700 National Merit Scholarships worth nearly $24 million that will be awarded next spring. To be considered for a Merit Scholarship, semifinalists must meet several requirements to advance to the finalist level of the competition. About 95 percent of the semifinalists are expected to attain finalist status, and roughly half of the finalists will receive a National Merit Scholarship, earning the Merit Scholar title. A standout scholar at Worcester Prep, Mann has maintained a 4.0 unweighted GPA and a 101.6 weighted GPA while completing the school’s most rigorous academic curriculum. Among his many honors, he was named Worcester Prep’s Best All-Round Student for Grades 9–11 and earned the school’s highest aca-

demic average for grades 9–11 in 2025– 2026. He is a member of the Cum Laude Society, National Honor Society, and Spanish Honor Society, and was named an AP Scholar with Distinction. In addition to his academic achievements, Mann has demonstrated exceptional leadership throughout his time at Worcester Prep. He has served as Class Vice President Gavin Mann throughout grades 9– 12 and will serve as Editor-in-Chief of the school newspaper during his senior year. In 2026, he was selected to attend Maryland Boys State, where he was elected President of the City Council for Flag City and chosen as the inaugural Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of Maryland. A three-year starter on the Varsity Lacrosse team, Gavin is anticipated to serve as team captain during his senior season. He was also selected as captain of the Varsity Soccer team and has been part of two ESIAC Conference Championship teams. He has volunteered with TOPSoccer, where he mentors children with physical and developmental disabilities, and supporting remote access to services at The Community Church at Ocean Pines.

Swim Lessons Available Call for Details

Water Aerobics

HOURS:

Tues 10am • Wed 10am • Thurs 10am Fri 10 & 11am • Sat 11am

Fitness Center • Kickboxing • Personal Training Group Fitness • Swim Lessons • Water Aerobics • Pool Parties 11022 Nicholas Lane • Ocean Pines Call 443-783-2004 Or STOP IN to See Us

PAGE 50

OC Today-Dispatch

SEPTEMBER 18, 2026

CROSSWORD

SUBMITTED PHOTOS/OC TODAY-DISPATCH

ATLANTIC CLUB ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION On the occasion of its 40th Anniversary last Sunday, The Joan W. Jenkins Center/Atlantic Club held a dedication ceremony for its new Lost and Found Serenity Garden, which is intended to be a gathering place for reflecting, remembering and healing for those impacted by addiction. Last weekend’s event featured a ribbon-cutting ceremony of the new garden by founder Charles “Buddy” Jenkins, pictured surrounded by family members. Additionally, local elected officials, including Berlin Councilman Steve Green, Worcester County Commissioner Joe Mitrecic and State Senator Mary Beth Carozza, delivered remarks and commendations in recognition of Jenkins and the Atlantic Club.

The Willards Lion’s Club Presents

EVERY TUESDAY AT 6:30 Doors Open At 4:30

Minimum JACKPOT

$5000 19 Numbe or Less rs

ADMISSION PACK $20.00 Special games • Instants • Pulltabs 50/50 raffle and food for purchase

WITH US!

OPEN TO THE PUBLIC. MUST BE 16 TO PLAY 36393 HEARN STREET, WILLARDS, MARYLAND 410-835-2328 • Check us out on Facebook

www w..octodaydispatch.com

Answers on page 53

OC Today-Dispatch

SEPTEMBER 18, 2026

PAGE 51

HOROSCOPE ARIES – Mar 21/Apr 20 Aries, this week calls for a break from your usual fast pace. If you’ve been burning the candle at both ends, your energy reserves will be depleted. Focus on fortifying yourself and your space.

50% OFF

STRETCH SESSION NOW ONLY $19.99

TAURUS – Apr 21/May 21 Miscommunication is likely if you rush your words, Taurus. Take an extra breath before responding when someone asks you a question or when addressing emails.

410-641-2900

GEMINI – May 22/Jun 21 It’s time to audit where your money is going, Gemini. If you’ve been overspending as a balm to stress, hit the brakes. Look for areas where you can plug any financial leaks.

CANCER – Jun 22/Jul 22 The spotlight is firmly on you right now, Cancer. You might feel a sudden urge to change your style, update your resume or shed an old identity that no longer fits. Trust this instinct.

Option #2

314 FRANKLIN AVENUE • SUITE 402 • BERLIN, MD

Best Arcade Value in Town! More Credits for Your Money & Biggest Ticket Payouts!

LEO – Jul 23/Aug 23

— COUPON —

The universe is asking you to clear out some psychic debris this week. It is a great time for journaling and heavy solo time. If secrets or old resentments bubble up, just let them go.

END OF SUMMER SPECIAL!

$30 GAME CARD FOR $20 AND A FREE SMALL CONE OR CUP OF ICE CREAM!

VIRGO – Aug 24/Sept 22 Your social life is getting a bit of a reality check, Virgo. You might realize that certain friendships have felt a bit one-sided. Seek people who inspire you.

LIBRA – Sept 23/Oct 23 The spotlight shines brightly on your professional zone this week, Libra. Instead of waiting for recognition, create your own. Update your portfolio or pitch an idea you have been sitting on.

SCORPIO – Oct 24/Nov 22 Scorpio, you may be craving a breakdown of boredom. If you can’t physically travel right now, satisfy this urge by stretching your mind another way.

SAGITTARIUS – Nov 23/Dec 21 This week drags you into deeper psychological waters than you might care to swim in, Sagittarius. It’s a powerful time for intimacy or understanding behaviors.

NEW! TRY OUT OUR MINI HOT CHURRO BITES and HOT DONUTS

Pinball Skee-Ball Prizes Games

Open Fri & Sat: Noon-10pm • Sun: Noon-8pm • Thurs. 3-8pm Check Out Our Website www.eqocmd.com for Weekly Specials 13713 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, MD 21842 • (410) 250-4442

Exp. 9/30/26

ANY SIZE ICE CREAM CONE, CUP or SUNDAE Special Good thru 9/30

Premier Home & Artisan Expo October 23rd - 25th

10am - 4pm

CAPRICORN – Dec 22/Jan 20 Relationships take center stage, Capricorn. If there is an imbalance of power, it will need to be corrected. Approach conversations this week with diplomacy.

AQUARIUS – Jan 21/Feb 18 Aquarius, your daily habits are catching up to you. If you’ve been eating poorly or skipping sleep, your body will demand a reset. Focus on microhabits to get back on track.

PISCES – Feb 19/Mar 20 Your playful side is begging for attention, Pisces. Make time for hobbies, art or romance that serve no purpose but to bring you joy.

Delmarva’s One-Stop Shop for Home & Handmade

Furnishings

Kitchen & Bath

Whole Home & Outdoor

Sponsored by:

Local Artisans

Roland E. Powell Convention Center 4001 Coastal Hwy OC, MD 21842 oceanpromotions.info

PAGE 52

OC Today-Dispatch

SEPTEMBER 18, 2026

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., Sept. 18

tile Mahjong. Feel free to bring your own tile set. All adults are welcome. 410-5241818, worcesterlibrary.org

stores and restaurants. https://berlinchamber.org/event/fiddlers-convention2/

ets. Rain date is Sept. 20. Parking cost $5 per vehicle.

LIVE MUSIC & NIGHT HIKE MERMAID SWIM

Furnace Town Historic Site (Nassawango Iron Furnace), 3816 Old Furnace Road, Snow Hill, 5 p.m. Featuring Callum Toner at 5 p.m. and night hike at 8 p.m. Cost is $10 for music or hike and $15 for both. Bug spray and appropriate outdoor attire advised. Hike covers .5 mile in one hour.

SERVICE SQUAD

ORIGINALS ONLY - NO COVERS, JUST CREATORS

Ocean Pines Sports Core Pool, 11144 Cathell Road, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Must for at least 10 years of age. Must be an experienced swimmer. Fee is $25 for swim members, $30 for residents and $35 for non-residents. Registration: 410-6415255. Tails provided.

KING OF THE WIND KITE FESTIVAL

The Kite Loft, 511 Boardwalk, Ocean City, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Witness and participate in general kite flying, kite flying games, Bol races, candy drops, sport kite demos or just plain kite spectating. Free event. Wind and weather permitting. kiteloft.com

TEDX BUTTERFISH COVE

Ocean City Performing Arts Center, 4001 Coastal Highway, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Speakers include innovators, entrepreneurs, scientists, physicians, leaders, creatives, and changemakers. Tickets: https://www.squadup.com/events/tedxbutterfish-cove. Cost is $20-$150. 443366-5944

BAYSIDE PARK FALL MOVIE NIGHT

Bayside Park at Third St., 202 Fourth St., Ocean City, 7 p.m. Featuring “GOAT” (2026) on the big screen. Movie will begin at dusk. Concessions available for purchase. Free admission. https://oceancitymd.gov/oc/departments/recreation-parks/

33RD ANNUAL FIDDLERS CONVENTION AND SPIRITS FESTIVAL

Historic Downtown Berlin, 124 N. Main St., 6-10 p.m. Bring a chair, enjoy the bands on two stages, competitions, food, drinks, vendors and visit the local stores and restaurants. https://berlinchamber.org/event/fiddlers-convention-2/

CASH BINGO NIGHT

Ocean Pines Community Center, 235 Ocean Parkway, 6 p.m. Doors open at 5 p.m. Cash prizes up to $500. 50/50, Pull Tabs and food available. Tickets: $35 in advance or $40 at the door. All proceeds go to the O.P.V.F.D. 410-641-8272, opvfd.com/cash-bingo/

VOLUNTEER MEETING FOR TRAIL OF LOST SOULS Ocean Pines Community Center, 235 Ocean Parkway, 6 p.m. Volunteers needed for Ocean Pines haunted trail.

OYSTER FRITTER SANDWICHES

American Legion #123, 10111 Old Ocean City Blvd., Berlin, 2 p.m. Cost is $12 for dine-in or carry-out.

OC MAHJONG CLUB

Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 10:30 a.m. Join in for a fun morning of playing

SURVIVAL SPANISH: DIRECTIONS

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 1 p.m. Learn how to find your way around town in Spanish. 410-208-4014, worcesterlibrary.org

ONE MARYLAND ONE BOOK DISCUSSION: ‘NO SENSE IN WISHING’ BY LAWRENCE BURNEY

Forgotten 50 Distilling, 10103 Old Ocean City Blvd., Berlin, 2 p.m. Pick up a copy of the book and then meet at Forgotten 50 for a lively discussion. 410641-0650, worcesterlibrary.org

Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 10 a.m. Help out with craft and program prep, or other activities to earn service learning hours. Call for more details about potential projects. For ages 12-18 years. 410641-0650, worcesterlibrary.org

BBQ CHICKEN

St. Paul United Methodist Church, 405 Flower St., Berlin, 11 a.m. 1/2 BBQ chicken with two sides, roll and drink for $15. 1/2 BBQ chicken, roll and drink for $12. Proceeds benefit St. Paul United Methodist Church Men’s Ministry.

MOVIE MATINEE

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

THE COMMUNITY PLAYERS OF SALISBURY PRESENT: THE GREAT GATSBY Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 7:30 p.m. Based on F. Scott Fitzgerald’s novel. Free event. Donations gratefully accepted. 410-208-4014, worcesterlibrary.org

Sat., Sept. 19

Art League of Ocean City, 502 94th St., 6-8 p.m. Musicians, poets, comedians, performing all original work. Free and open to all … snacks included. Advanced registration preferred: https://canvas.artleagueofoceancity.org /events/40. 410-524-9433

BREWS & ROOS

Coastal Wilds, 34215 Peppers Corner Road, Frankford, 12-7 p.m. Tickets $85. Craft beer, kangaroos, live music, food trucks, raffle games and vendors. Sample craft beers, cocktails, seltzers and more (12-5 p.m.). Tickets: https://www.coastalwilds.org/brews. Must be at least 21. 302-829-1549

LIBRARY CARD MONTH CELEBRATION

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 12:30 p.m. Crafts, free books and games. For families. 410-208-4014, worcesterlibrary.org

BULL & OYSTER ROAST - OC RAVENS ROOST #44

OCEAN PINES FARMERS & ARTISANS MARKET

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

Sun., Sept. 20

KING OF THE WIND KITE FESTIVAL

Burley Oak Taproom & Brewing Company, 10016 Old Ocean City Blvd., Berlin, 1-5 p.m. The $35 fee includes 1 beef sandwich, 6 oysters, 2 sides and 1 drink of any kind. Additional food and drinks available for purchase. Tickets available at Burley Oak or jwbrown302@gmail.com.

KING OF THE WIND KITE FESTIVAL

E-VOLUTION EXPO

PAWS & CLAWS PARTY

E-VOLUTION EXPO

Roland E. Powell Convention Center, 4001 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Two days of technology, sustainability, health, mobility, innovation, and interactive experiences. Featuring Tesla Light Show, Flying Car, Home Tech and more. Tickets: https://www.evolutionexpo.com. 443-366-5944

Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 2 p.m. Wear cat-inspired attire and create cat themed art. Item donations for Town Cats will be accepted. Humans only, no pets allowed. For families. 410-5241818, worcesterlibrary.org

BALLET ON THE BEACH DANCE FESTIVAL 33RD ANNUAL FIDDLERS CONVENTION AND SPIRITS FESTIVAL

Historic Downtown Berlin, 124 N. Main St., 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Bring a chair, enjoy the bands on two stages, competitions, food, drinks, vendors and visit the local

Assateague State Park, 6915 Maryland 611, Berlin, 3:30-6:30 p.m. Pre-performance activities held 3:30-5 p.m. Performance begins at 5 p.m. Reserve free tickets: https://www.balletonthebeach.org/tick-

Roland E. Powell Convention Center, 4001 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Two days of technology, sustainability, health, mobility, innovation, and interactive experiences. Featuring Tesla Light Show, Flying Car, Home Tech and more. Tickets: https://www.e-volutionexpo.com. 443366-5944

THE COMMUNITY PLAYERS OF SALISBURY PRESENT: THE GREAT GATSBY Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 2 p.m. Based on F. Scott Fitzgerald’s novel.

SEPTEMBER 18, 2026

PAGE 53

OC Today-Dispatch

CALENDAR Free event. Donations gratefully accepted. 410-208-4014, worcesterlibrary.org

PLEIN AIR ART EXHIBIT AND SALE

Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 5-7 p.m. Enjoy artists painting around Worcester County and competing for cash prizes, Sept. 12-20. Art Exhibit and Sale is free and open to the public. www.worcestercountyartscouncil.org, 410-641-0809

TEMPLE BAT YAM HIGH HOLIDAY SERVICES

Temple Bat Yam, 11036 Worcester Highway, Berlin. Yom Kippur services will be held at 7 p.m. The Reform Jewish congregation welcomes nonmembers. Reservations are requested: 302-4488697, 410-641-4311.

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

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

OPEN REHEARSAL - THE DELMARVA CHORUS

Ocean Pines Community Center, 235 Ocean Parkway, 6-7:30 p.m. Women of all ages are invited. Learn more about the chorus and enjoy light refreshments. Elissa, 410-641-8050, www.delmarvachorus.org, or “The Delmarva Chorus” on Facebook or Instagram.

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 SEWING SEEDS OF LOVE

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

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.

JEHOVAH’S WITNESSES MEETING

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

Mon., Sept. 21 TEMPLE BAT YAM HIGH HOLIDAY SERVICES

Temple Bat Yam, 11036 Worcester Highway, Berlin. Yom Kippur services will be held at 10 a.m., 3 p.m. and 7 p.m. The Reform Jewish congregation welcomes nonmembers. Reservations are requested: 302-448-8697, 410-641-4311.

OVEREATER’S ANONYMOUS

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

Tues., Sept. 22 MOMMY/DADDY & ME CRAFT TIME

Ocean Pines Community Center, 235 Ocean Parkway, 10-11 a.m. Parents & toddlers (1-4 yrs.) enjoy a short story & craft. Parents may need to assist child with crafts. All materials provided. Cost is $4. Pre-registration required: 410641-7052, www.oceanpines.org.

BLOOD DRIVE

TidalHealth John H.”Jack” Burbage, Jr. Cancer Center, 9707 Healthway Drive, Berlin, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Hosted by The Blood Bank of Delmarva. Register: https://donate.bbd.org/donor/schedules/drive_schedule/12592.

BABY TIME

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 10:30 a.m. Songs, stories and giggles. For ages 0-2 years. 410-208-4014, worcesterlibrary.org

STORY TIME: WELCOME FALL!

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

TOPS OF BERLIN - GROUP #169

TidalHealth Atlantic, Conference Room

STORY TIME: THERE AND BACK AGAIN STORY ADVENTURES

Worcester County Library - Pocomoke Branch, 401 Fifth St., 10:30 a.m. Celebrate Tolkien Week & National Hobbit Day with crafts, songs and stories about dragons, elves and mythical creatures. For ages 2-5 years. 410-957-0878, worcesterlibrary.org

terlibrary.org

AN UNEXPECTED CRAFTING PARTY

Worcester County Library - Pocomoke Branch, 401 Fifth St., 1-4 p.m. Celebrate Hobbit Day with fun crafts and activities. 410-957-0878, worcesterlibrary.org

MASTER GARDENERS PLANT CLINIC

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

PATRIOTIC HEROES AND HEROINES OF THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION

Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 2 p.m. Learn about familiar and forgotten men and women who contributed to the prevailing victory of the American Continental Army that defeated the British forces at Yorktown in October 1781. 410524-1818

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

BABY TIME

Worcester County Library - Snow Hill Branch, 307 N. Washington St., 10:30 a.m. Songs, rhymes and stories. Stay after to socialize with other families. For ages 0-2 years. 410-632-5622, worces-

BABY TIME

Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 10:30 a.m. Baby bounces, board books and the chance to socialize. For ages 0-2 years. 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

HOMESCHOOL HIATUS

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 1:30 p.m. Take a break from learning to explore STEAM activities. For families. 410208-4014, worcesterlibrary.org

FUN AND FIBER ART

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 4:30 p.m. Follow a guided project, explore new techniques, or bring along your own fiber arts project to work on alongside fellow creators. For ages 12-18 years. 410-208-4014, worcesterlibrary.org

CHAIR YOGA

Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 2 p.m. Certified yoga instructor Samantha Biskach teaches this class. Registration required: 410-641-0650. worcesterlibrary.org

GRIEF SUPPORT GROUP 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

TidalHealth Atlantic, Conference Room 1, 9733 Healthway Drive, Berlin, 3-4:30 p.m. Held on the fourth Wednesday of each month. 410-629-6848, lora.pangratz@tidalhealth.org

VIRTUAL DIABETES SELF-MANAGEMENT CLASS

This four-session class is held Sept. 23, 30, Oct. 7, 14, 6-8 p.m. Provider referral, patient pre-assessment and registration are required. Insurance may cover all or part of the cost. Register: 410-543-7061.

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.

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

Continued on Page 54 Crossword answers from page 50

ZUMBA TONING TUESDAYS OC KNITTING GROUP

Wed., Sept. 23

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.

OC Today-Dispatch

PAGE 54

SEPTEMBER 18, 2026

CALENDAR Continued from Page 53

at 5 p.m., bingo starts at 6:30 p.m. Food available before bingo. Open to the public. 443-605-5028

STORY TIME: FALL

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

ZUMBA PLUS!!

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

Thurs., Sept. 24 NARFE CHAPTER MEETING

Ocean Pines Community Center, 235 Ocean Parkway, 10 a.m. Meeting is open to federal employees, active and retired. National Active and Retired Federal Employees Association mission is to protect the Federal Employees’ benefits. khagannarde@gmail.com, 703-729-2103

COMPUTER BASICS: THE INTERNET

Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 10 a.m. Explore navigating the Internet. Bring a laptop. Bring a mouse if you can. Registration required: 410-641-0650. worcesterlibrary.org

COFFEE & CRAFTS: LEAF PAINTINGS

Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 10:30 a.m. Join in every month for a new craft. Materials provided. Limit 30. 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 2-5 years. 410-632-5622, worcesterlibrary.org

MEXICAN BARK PAINTING

Worcester County Library - Pocomoke Branch, 401 Fifth St., 2-4 p.m. Paint a vibrant scene on paper to imitate a traditional folk art. Registration required: 410-957-0878. worcesterlibrary.org

0078

DRY PANTRY

Thursdays - St. Paul United Methodist Church, 405 Flower Street, Berlin, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. For those in need of resources such as paper products, laundry products, baby items, and personal care items. Limits apply. 410-641-0270

ONGOING EVENTS WASHINGTON CAPITALS VS. NEW YORK RANGERS

Bus trip to Capital One Arena, Oct. 9. Cost is $105 and includes transportation and game ticket. Bus departs Ocean Pines Community Center at 3 p.m. Game time is 7 p.m. Tickets: Ocean Pines Recreation & Parks, 410-641-7052.

FIRESIDE CHAT

Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 3 p.m. A lively discussion of books you’ve enjoyed and recommendations to inspire your next read. 410-641-0650, worcesterlibrary.org

TAP OUT ALZHEIMER’S

Burley Oak Taproom & Brewing Company, 10016 Old Ocean City Blvd., Berlin, 5-8 p.m. First 50 attendees (21+ years of age) get a free brew. Featuring taco treats from Mother’s Cantina, door prizes, raffles and live music by Margot & Valerie from 6-8 pm. Rose, 443-783-

the official rules. For families. 410-2084014

PAINT WORCESTER COUNTY PLEIN AIR

Enjoy artists painting around Worcester County and competing for cash prizes, Sept. 12-20. Art Exhibit and Sale to be held Sept. 20, 5-7 p.m. at Berlin library, 13 Harrison Ave. The event is free and open to the public. www.worcestercountyartscouncil.org, 410-641-0809, curator@worcestercountyartscouncil.org

DUCK-TEMBER DECORATING CONTEST

Ocean Pines library, 11107 Cathell Road, Sept. 14-Oct. 16. Decorate your duck as your favorite book character. Stop by the library to pick up your duck and get all

HISTORY-TO-GO - PUMPKIN CARVING

Snow Hill library, 301 Bank St., throughout September. Learn how Halloween has been celebrated throughout history and get patterns to carve historically inspired pumpkins. 410-632-5622

TEEN TIME

Ocean Pines library, 11107 Cathell Road, throughout September, 3:30 p.m. Create a festive wreath in time for fall. While supplies last. For ages 12-18 years. 410208-4014

TEEN & TWEEN ADVISORY COMMITTEE NOW ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS

Pocomoke library, 401 5th Street, Unit 100. Build leadership skills and add something meaningful to your resume. Applications are available in the guidance office at Pocomoke Middle School and Pocomoke High School. Submit application by Oct. 31. For ages 12-18 years. 410-957-0878

OC READS: ‘THE BERRY PICKERS’ BY AMANDA PETERS

Ocean City library, 10003 Coastal Highway, Sept. 1-30. Simply pick up a copy of this month’s read, “The Berry Pickers” by Amanda Peters. Come in before the end of the month to share your impressions and enter the drawing to win free books. 410-524-1818

SEPTEMBER 18, 2026

OC Today-Dispatch

Call 410-723-6397 or email classifieds@octodaydispatch.com by Monday, 5 p.m.

Classifieds appear in OC Today-Dispatch & Bayside Gazette each week & online at octodaydispatch.com & baysideoc.com

MARKETPLACE HELP WANTED

HELP WANTED

RENTALS

MARINE TECHS Position available for full-time Marine Technician at West Ocean City location. Call 410-213-1383.

NOW HIRING ASSISTANT BOOKKEEPER Busy automotive office in the Ocean View/ Clarksville area Requirements: • Microsoft Excel experience • Basic bookkeeping experience • Dependable and detail-oriented • QuickBooks and payroll experience a plus

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

OC WINTER RENTAL TWO 2BR, 2BA APTS. Furnished, renovated. Downtown OC. No smoking/pets. $800/mo. plus utilities & sec. dep. Rent includes water, WiFi & basic cable. Avail. 10/12/26-5/12/27. 410-202-6353

FOR RENT OP 3BR, 2BA $2,200 per mo. + utils. Berlin, MD 410-456-0272

WINTER RENTAL Carousel 2BR, 2BA. $1250/month plus electric. Starts Nov. 1-April 30. 301-437-2799

NOW HIRING - PART-TIME STORE ASSOCIATE Join our busy automotive and marine parts store! • Great customer service skills required • Valid driver’s license required • Automotive or marine knowledge is a plus • Will train the right person • We have openings at our Long Neck, DE and Ocean Pines, MD locations. 302-344-9769

In-office position - no remote work Call 302-228-2353 to apply.

Classifieds 410-723-6397

Join the Sea Colony East Maintenance Team! Now hiring high rise condominium/full time building maintenance techs. Great Benefit plan/paid time off! Apply online at troon.com/careers - company location Sea Colony Assoc East Email bethann.steele@seacolony.com Call 302-541-8831 for an interview

AMERICAN LEGION PT/YR COOKS Dependable, reliable Apply within. American Legion Post 166, 2308 Philadelphia Avenue, OC, MD 21842 410-289-3166 MAINTENANCE WORKER Harbour Island Condo Association 14th Street, Ocean City Seeking a reliable Maintenance Worker for general property maintenance. Hours available: • 9:00 AM-2:00 PM, Monday-Sunday • 3:00 PM-8:00 PM, Monday-Sunday • 7 day a week • Year around A great opportunity for a retiree looking for flexible, part-time work. Competitive pay. For more information, contact Jimmer at 240-298-0365

Worcester County Health Department COMMUNITY HEALTH NURSE PROGRAM MANAGER Full Time, State Benefits. This position is located in Snow Hill, Maryland. The main purpose of this professional nursing management position is to plan, develop, implement, and evaluate the overall Maternal Child Health program, including the reproductive health, Maternal Infant Early Childhood Home Visiting, immunizations, lead case management, and other essential maternal child health programs within the Community Health Department. This includes assisting in the interpretation and implementation of departmental policies and procedures and preparing & monitoring program budgets in collaboration with subordinate program supervisors and with the oversight of the Director of Nursing. Additionally, this position represents nursing services on appropriate agency and state committees and is responsible for supervising subordinate nursing program supervisors and other health care staff assigned to the program. This position participates in a rotational on-call schedule for 24/7 response to public health emergencies and urgent agency needs. Applicants must be able to work at and travel to ALL Worcester County Health Department sites and may be required to work some weekend and/or evening hours. This position is not telework eligible. Background check required. 99,442.00 - $128,645.00/year with potential growth to $156,822.00/year

NOW HIRING Year-Round Cook, Steamers, Carryout Staff, Assistant Manager To apply, go to finshospitality.com/career

Fully Furnished 2 bedrm/2 bath Condo for rent on ocean block. Oct. thru May. Utilities, cable and internet included. Fully equipped kitchen. $1800 monthly. Contact Joyce at 610-405-8942 or email joycepetrauskas@gmail. com

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

APPLY ONLINE at www.jobapscloud.com/md by September 28, 2026.

Classifieds 410-723-6397

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, gender, religion, color, sex, age, national origin or disability. Appropriate accommodations for individuals with disabilities are available upon request by calling 410-632-1100 ext. 1243.

www.baysideoc.com www.octodaydispatch.com

OCEANS CALLING, COUNTRY CALLING OCEANVIEW RENTAL NEWLY AVAILABLE 2BR, 2BA, SLEEPS 6 38TH ST AND THE BEACH Great location, next door to Castle in the Sand, walk to Concerts, close to restaurants, convention center etc… 443-880-8885 or view and book: SeaLaVie https://book.vuestay.com/ ocean-city-bright-beachhome-near-the-boardwalkwi-b46jo9

YEAR ROUND & WINTER BAYSIDE CONDO 4 - 2BR/2BA FULLY FURNISHED Units W/D, AC & parking Starting September Call Mike at 410-603-6120 www.mbjcproperties.com Seeking Year-Round Rentals! Call Howard Martin Realty 410-352-5555. WINTER RENTAL North OC, 1BR, 1BA Condo, 3rd Flr., walk-up. Furnished, W/D, Parking, Walking distance to restaurants. $1,100 per mo. + sec. dep. & utilities. Incl. WiFi. 412-965-4079

Classifieds 410-723-6397

CLASSIFIED AD NETWORK Serving the Newspapers of Maryland, Delaware and the District of Columbia since 1908.

MARYLAND STATEWIDE CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING 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

FOR SALE Prepare for power outages today with a Generac Home Standby Generator. Act now to receive a FREE 5-Year warranty with qualifying purchase. Call 1-855-993-0969 today to schedule a free quote. It’s not just a generator. It’s a power move. MISC. FOR SALE Get Boost Infinite! Unlimited Talk, Text and Data For Just $25/mo! The Power Of 3 5G Networks, One Low Price! Call Today and Get The Latest iPhone Every Year On Us! 855-977-5719

MISC. FOR SALE Get DISH Satellite TV + Internet! Free Install, Free HD-DVR Upgrade, 80,000 On-Demand Movies, Plus Limited Time Up To $600 In Gift Cards. Call Today! 1-855-407-6870 REAL ESTATE We Buy Houses for Cash AS IS! No repairs. No fuss. Any condition. Easy three step process: Call, get cash offer and get paid. Get your fair cash offer today by calling Liz Buys Houses: 1-866-541-7929

Advertise in MDDC 410-723-6397

GET IT RENTED HERE!

NOW HIRING!! Production Crew for our WOC kitchen facility Up to $20/hr. Apply online at: www.delmarvadd.com

WINTER RENTAL 2BR, 1BA, Small Condo. 5th Street, 1 block to the boards. Absolutely No smoking/pets. $900/mo. + utils. 1-month sec. dep. req. Oct. 10-April 10th. OCMD. Text 410-952-5234

410-723-6397 www.octodaydispatch.com www.baysideoc.com

OC Today-Dispatch

www.octodaydispatch.com Order YOur Classifieds Online!

• Convenient • Quick • No Waiting, No Calls • Days, Nights & Weekends

PAGE 56

OC Today-Dispatch

SEPTEMBER 18, 2026

ROOMMATES

COMMERCIAL

YARD SALE

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.

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

GLENRIDDLE COMMUNITY YARD SALE Saturday, 9/26, 8am-12pm

REAL ESTATE REAL ESTATE 11 Seafarer Lane in North Ocean Pines, MD for only $449,900. Three bedroom and 2 full bath home, fully furnished. Great for a starter home or beach getaway. Wooded lot with a lot of privacy, includes a hot tub and firepit. Large 1-car garage with paved driveway for 6+ cars. Owner anxious to sell, come see and make a deal. Keller Williams Delmarva North, Julie Stefan @ 410-800-7915 or office 302-360-0300

SERVICES 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

WANT TO BUY WANT TO BUY I BUY ALBUMS! 410-430-5349

“Moving On” Sale Inside and Out Rain or Shine Sat., 9/19 & Sun., 9/20 8am-‘til? Collectibles, designer clothes, furniture, high end items at reasonable prices. 8 Nottingham Lane, Southgate OP

BOAT STORAGE BOAT STORAGE

WINTER BOAT STORAGE Across from Casino Call Steve, leave message 410-251-3412 Classified Deadline is Monday @ 5pm

COMMERCIAL COMMERCIAL 2 Office/Retail Spaces available in West Ocean City. Approximately 1656 sq. ft. and 1728 sq. ft. 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.

Run your business card in our

SERVICE DIRECTORY CALL 410-723-6397 for pricing!

OC Today-Dispatch

SEPTEMBER 18, 2026

PAGE 57

DIRECTORY BLINDS / SHADES

CARPET CLEANING

CLEANING SERVICES

Pure

CLEANING SERVICES

RESIDENTIAL • COMMERCIAL • RENTALS • Move In-Out Clean • Standard Clean • Post Construction • Light Yard Clean Clean • Home Organization • Handyman Service • Deep Clean

443-856-8577 DinonguT@gmail.com

a clean that makes the difference HANDYMAN SERVICES

RISH A RBEACHMAN PHANDY THE

Exterior Home Repairs

“WE DO IT ALL” • Roofing Repairs • Rain Gutters • Roof Cleaning • Gutter Guards

• Screening • Painting

• Staining • Caulking

• Gutter Cleaning & Powerwashing •

HANDYMAN MHIC #127296

SPRING CLEANUPS & MOWING

BATHROOM / KITCHEN WINDOW & DOORS INTERIOR / EXTERIOR CARPENTRY

PAINTING FLOORING SMALL JOBS & MORE CALL 410-999-4998

• Deck Repairs •

“A Family Tradition Since 1935”

410-893-9707

HOME HOME IMPROVEMENT IMPROVEMENT

HOME IMPROVEMENT

For All Your Construction Needs!

EVANS BROTHERS

Cox Building & Remodeling Home: 410-641-4304 Cell: 443-783-3972 stickframe@aol.com

E. Chuck Cox

HOME IMPROVEMENT

410-984-4938

Decks / Screen Rooms / Wood / Composite Windows / Siding Bathroom / Kitchen Remodels Flooring Hardwood / LVP Ceramic Tiles

* NOW OFFERING * DISPOSAL ROLLOFF SERVICE

410.713.8599

MHIC#95214

HOME HOME IMPROVEMENT IMPROVEMENT

FROM FORM TO FINISH, LLC. • Kitchen & Bathroom Remodeling • Finish Carpentry • Tile • Painting • Concrete Finishing Ben Armes, Owner/Operator

FREE Estimates • Licensed And Insured MHIC #52065

503-730-0553 Licensed & Insured

HOME IMPROVEMENT roofing

HOME IMPROVEMENT

Hall’s Remodeling

PipeLine

Contracting, LLC

& Renovations

Home Improvement Services Company

“One stop shop for Home Improvement”

Home Improvement Design & Bertch Cabinet Retail

Custom Built Homes • Additions/Club Basements Kitchen & Bath Remodels • Roofs Custom Decks/Fences • Power Washing Painting • Pavers • Concrete

• Cabinets & Countertop • Flooring & Tile • Kitchen & Bath Remodeling • Residential & Commercial • Servicing Maryland & • General Carpentry & Delaware Beaches Painting

US Veterans Administration Approved Contractor

11312 Manklin Creek, Rd., Ocean Pines, MD ~ Call or Stop in Today!

MHIC #40933

(410) 208-1518 • (410) 982-8368 pipelinecontracting.net • info@pipelinecontracting.net

Tony Campo / Dave Harmon

Parkville, MD 21234 • 410-977-2353 TCContractor64@gmail.com

HOME IMPROVEMENT IMPROVEMENT HOME

Complete Home Improvement Contractor

Quick Reliable Service 7 Days A Week Clean Up Crews Available • 15 & 20 Yard

Pat Parrish

Licensed & Insured VA # 2705 101009A MD MHIC # 92091 MD MHBR # 5658 DE # 2024942925

• Licensed and Fully Insured • Free Estimates • Locally Owned • Cleaning Specials • Roofing • Maintenance

TRADITIONAL HANDYMAN SERVICES

Licensed • Bonded • Insured • MHIC 17433 Phil Parrish

HOME IMPROVEMENT

MDHIC # 107489 • DE # 2014100304 • Insured & Licensed

HOME, LAWN & PATIO SERVICES

LANDSCAPING

Atlantic Landscaping and More Specializing in Additions, Kitchens, Baths and All Types of Custom Remodeling.

Time to schedule and complete before Memorial Day!

We accept MC/Visa Ken Walsh 301-776-7249 • (410) 641-3762

Property Management • Lawn Care Gutter Cleaning • Shrub Trimming • Power Washing Leaf Removal • Hauling Services • Painting Stone & Gravel • Mulching • Cleaning • Trailer Storage Shed Demolition • Stump Grinding • Dump Trailer Rental House/Shed/Garage Clean-outs • Home Watch Service Pet Sitting/Dog Walking & More Call or Text for Free Estimates & Questions!

410-713-9159 Zelle Accepted

OC Today-Dispatch

PAGE 58

SEPTEMBER 18, 2026

DIRECTORY LANDSCAPING

LANDSCAPING

Lawncare, Landscaping & Hardscapes S

LANDSCAPING • IRRIGATION HARDSCAPING • FREE ESTIMATES Full Service/Yearly Maintenance Contracts Available

443-783-2224 • edgarcjr@aol.com

• Spring Cleanup • Brush Removal • Hauling • Mulch • Planting • Driveway Seal Coating • Patio & Walkway • Custom Landscape

re s c a p e

FREE ESTIMATES

MHIC #12398

410-430-7543

MDA #30202

LOCKSMITH

FLASH OC LOCKOUT Auto & Home Lockout Service OPEN 24 / 7 Lockouts

Jumps

Gas Delivery

443 . 664 . 2650

www.Facebook.com/OCFlashLocksmith

MEN’S HAIR SERVICES

MOVERS

MVA LICENSED

PAINTING

PAINTING • CUSTOM PAINTING • DRYWALL REPAIRS • WALLPAPER REMOVED • DECK & HOUSE STAINING Painting & Powerwashing • ALWAYS PROMPT SERVICE Interior & Exterior

PLUMBING

Zimmerman & Son LLC Serving Delmarva for Over 35 Years Licensed & Insured

Free Estimates

10% Discount with this ad.

NOW ACCEPTING CREDIT CARDS!

Bill Zimmerman cell 443-373-4539

PLUMBING

We do it all from ground work to rough in to final trim & fixtures.

Plumbing and Gas, LLC

We Install:

Faucets/Sinks • Showers/Tubs/Toilets Water Heaters • Water/Sewer Lines

MD 62495 • DE 13060 • Insured

Winterization Packages • Repairs

CALL FOR ANY OF YOUR PLUMBING OR GAS NEEDS 410-430-3490 • LMSPlumbingandgas.com

ROOFING

STORAGE STORAGE

ROOFING & SIDING Your Roofing, Siding & Home Improvement Specialist Since 1989 ROOFING • SIDING • DURADEK • WINDOWS • GUTTERS Mike Moesle 410-629-1573, Fax: 410-629-1946

9240 Peerless Rd. • Bishopville, MD mmoesle@shoresidingmd.com • www.shoresidingmd.com

*Licensed in MD, DE &VA

TAX RESOLUTION / CREDIT SERVICES

AMA Consulting & Business Svcs, Inc We Solve Your Problems

Mae Phillips

(434) 382-8920 11806 Sheppards Crossing Road Whaleyville, MD 21874 amaconsultingandbusiness@gmail.com www.amaconsultingbusiness.com

VEHICLE T TA AG & TITLE TAG

TA T AG & TITLE T SER RV VIICE

No W Waaitt • W Waalk-In • No Apppointment Necessarryy Mon-Sat 9am - 5:30pm 5

Racetrack Auto A 11740 Worcester Hwy. Shhowell, MD 21862 410-352-50070 (Located on Rt. 113 - 1 min. Nortth of Racetrack Road)

Across from Casino

YOUR BUSINESS

Your Business Card Here! Call 410-723-6397

SEPTEMBER 18, 2026 Aldridge Pite LLP 6001 Executive Blvd., Suite 200 Rockville, MD 20852 301-961-6555

SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEES' SALE

OF REAL PROPERTY AND ANY IMPROVEMENTS THEREON 4 WINDJAMMER ROAD BERLIN, MD 21811 Under a power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust dated July 21, 2022, recorded in Liber 8432, Folio 216 among the Land Records of Worcester County, MD, with an original principal balance of $705,000.00, default having occurred under the terms thereof, the Sub. Trustees will sell at public auction at the Circuit Court for Worcester County, at the Court House Door, One W. Market St., Snow Hill, MD 21863, on SEPTEMBER 22, 2026 AT 4:00 PM ALL THAT FEE SIMPLE LOT OF GROUND, together with any buildings or improvements thereon located in Worcester County, MD and more fully described in the aforesaid Deed of Trust. The property, and any improvements thereon, will be sold in an "as is" condition and subject to conditions, restrictions and agreements of record affecting the same, if any, and with no warranty of any kind. Terms of Sale: A deposit of $35,000 in the form of certified check, cashier's check or money order will be required of the purchaser at time and place of sale. Balance of the purchase price, together with interest on the unpaid purchase money at the current rate contained in the Deed of Trust Note, or any modifications thereto, from the date of sale to the date funds are received by the Sub. Trustees, payable in cash within ten days of final ratification of the sale by the Circuit Court. There will be no abatement of interest due to the purchaser in the event additional funds are tendered before settlement. TIME IS OF THE ESSENCE FOR THE PURCHASER. Adjustment of all real property taxes, including agricultural taxes, if applicable, and any and all public and/or private charges or assessments, to the extent such amounts survive foreclosure sale, including water/sewer, ground rent and front foot benefit charges, to be adjusted to date of sale and thereafter assumed by purchaser. Purchaser is responsible for any recapture of homestead tax credit. All transfer taxes and recordation taxes shall be paid by Purchaser. The purchaser shall be responsible for the payment of the ground rent escrow, if required. Condominium fees and/or homeowners association dues, if any, shall be assumed by the purchaser from the date of sale. Purchaser is responsible for obtaining physical possession of the property, and assumes risk of loss or damage to the property from the date of sale. The sale is subject to post-sale audit of the status of the loan with the

PAGE 59

OC Today-Dispatch/Public Notices loan servicer including, but not limited to, determination of whether the borrower entered into any repayment agreement, reinstated or paid off the loan prior to the sale. In any such event, this sale shall be null and void, and the Purchaser's sole remedy, in law or equity, shall be the return of the deposit without interest. If purchaser fails to settle within ten days of ratification, subject to order of court, purchaser agrees that property will be resold and entire deposit retained by Sub. Trustees as liquidated damages for all losses occasioned by the purchaser's default and purchaser shall have no further liability. The purchaser waives personal service of any papers filed in connection with its failure to settle within ten days of ratification and expressly agrees to accept service by first class mail at the address provided by the Purchaser as identified on the Memorandum of Sale. The defaulted purchaser shall not be entitled to any surplus proceeds resulting from said resale even if such surplus results from improvements to the property by said defaulted purchaser. Sub. Trustees will convey either marketable or insurable title. If they cannot deliver one or the other, or if ratification of the sale is denied by the Circuit Court for any reason, the Purchaser's sole remedy, at law or equity, is return of the deposit without interest. (Matter No. 383429-1) Andrew J. Brenner, et al, Substitute Trustees

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 _________________________________

OCD-9/3/3t _________________________________

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

BRIAN PETER COSBY NILES, BARTON & WILMER, LLP 12417 OCEAN GATEWAY #B-13 OCEAN CITY, MD 21842

NOTICE

Mayor & City Council Ocean City, Maryland Mayor & City Council Ocean City, Maryland

ensuring the completeness and accuracy of their Completed BID Documents. A Pre-BID Meeting will be held on THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 3RD, 2026 AT 10:00AM EST, AT THE NORTHSIDE PARK COMMUNITY ROOM, 200 125TH STREET, OCEAN CITY, MARYLAND 21842. The Last Day for Questions will be on THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 17TH, 2026 AT 4:00PM EST. Addendum will be posted by close of business on FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 18TH, 2026. Sealed BID Documents are due no later than FRIDAY, OCTOBER 9TH, 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, OCTOBER 13TH, 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 (Northside Park Living Shoreline) 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-8/27/7t _________________________________

BID SOLICITATION

B03-27 – Northside Park Living Shoreline The Mayor & City Council of Ocean City is seeking BID’s from qualified and experienced Vendors to provide for the Northside Park Living Shoreline and for said work to conform with the BID Documents. BID Documents for the Northside Park Living Shoreline 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

OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS To all persons interested in the estate of TIMOTHY ALLEN SIMPSON Estate No. 21244 Notice is given that SAMANTHA LITTLETON whose address is 9330 KITTS BRANCH RD BERLIN, MD 218113523 was on AUGUST 25, 2026 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of TIMOTHY ALLEN SIMPSON who died on JULY 03, 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 25th day of FEBRUARY, 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 25th day of FEBRUARY, 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

PAGE 60

OC Today-Dispatch/Public Notices

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-9/3/3t _________________________________

NOTICE

OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 21213 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF AARON BROADWATER JACOBS Notice is given that Romona Stephens, 2462 Glebe Ave., Bronx, NY 10461-3130, was on August 26, 2026 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Aaron Broadwater Jacobs who died on June 26, 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 26th day of February, 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 26th day of February, 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. Romona Stephens 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: September 03, 2026 OCD-9/3/3t _________________________________

NOTICE

OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS To all persons interested in the estate of VICKI JANE CYMEK Estate No. 21240 Notice is given that KIMBERLY C. FREY whose address is 31483 RIVER DR., OCEAN VIEW, DE 19970-3879 was on AUGUST 24, 2026 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of VICKI JANE CYMEK who died on JANUARY 23, 2026 with a will. Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal representative or the attorney. All interested persons or unpaid claimants having any objection to the appointment of the personal representative shall file their objection with the Register of Wills on or before the 24th day of FEBRUARY, 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 24th day of FEBRUARY, 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-9/3/3t _________________________________

NOTICE

OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS To all persons interested in the estate of DAVID F. NOYES Estate No. 21238 Notice is given that DIANE GEORGOV whose address is 103 PARTRIDGE WAY, LANDENBERG, PA 19350-1567 was on AUGUST 24, 2026 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of DAVID F. NOYES who died on AUGUST 11, 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 24th day of FEBRUARY, 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 24th day of FEBRUARY, 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-9/3/3t _________________________________ CHARLES T. CAPUTE ESQ. MCALLISTER, DE TAR, SHOWALTER & WALKER LLC 100 N. WEST STREET EASTON, MD 21601-2710

NOTICE

OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 21245 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF MARGARET ANN WARFIELD Notice is given that Ester Claire Reynolds, 8939 Ironshire Station Rd., Berlin, MD 21811-2927; Robert Edwin Warfield Jr., 115 Shallowford Rd., Greenville, SC 29607-3311, was on August 25, 2026 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Margaret Ann Warfield who died on July 18, 2026, with a will. Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal representative or the attorney. All interested persons or unpaid claimants having any objection to the appointment of the personal representative shall file their objection with the Register of Wills on or before the 25th day of February, 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 25th day of February, 2027. Any person having a claim against the decedent must present the claim to the undersigned per-

SEPTEMBER 18, 2026 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. Esther Claire Reynolds Robert Edwin Warfield Jr. 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: September 3, 2026 OCD-9/3/3t _________________________________

NOTICE

OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS To all persons interested in the estate of JAMES EDWARD SAVAGE Estate No. 21247 Notice is given that PATRICIA E. TEMPLE whose address is 32758 CEDAR DR., MILLVILLE, DE 19967-6919 was on AUGUST 26, 2026 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of JAMES EDWARD SAVAGE who died on FEBRUARY 11, 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 26th day of FEBRUARY, 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 26th day of FEBRUARY, 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

SEPTEMBER 18, 2026 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-9/3/3t _________________________________

nicipal Airport Terminal Siding Replacement) 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, CMPO Procurement Manager Town of Ocean City, Maryland OCD-9/3/5t _________________________________ RACHEL B. HARRIS ESQ. P.O. BOX 62 POCOMOKE CITY, MD 21851-0062

NOTICE

Mayor & City Council Ocean City, Maryland

BID SOLICITATION

B04-27 – Ocean City Municipal Airport Terminal Siding Replacement The Mayor & City Council of Ocean City is seeking BID’s from qualified and experienced Vendors to provide for the Ocean City Municipal Airport Terminal Siding Replacement and for said work to conform with the BID Documents. BID Documents for the Ocean City Municipal Airport Terminal Siding Replacement may be obtained from the Town’s Procurement Department by either e-mailing the Procurement Manager, Matt Perry, at mperry@oceancitymd.gov or Dawn Leonard at dleonard@oceancitymd.gov, or by calling (410) 7236643 during regular business hours, or via the Solicitations tab on the Town’s (https://oceancitymd.gov/oc/ procurement-bids/) website. Vendors are responsible for checking this website for Addenda before submitting their 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 THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 10TH, 2026 AT 10:00AM EST, AT THE OCEAN CITY MUNICIPAL AIRPORT, AIRPORT TERMINAL, BERLIN, MARYLAND 21811. The Last Day for Questions will be on THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 24TH, 2026 AT 4:00PM EST. Addendum will be posted by close of business on FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 25TH, 2026. Sealed BID Documents are due no later than FRIDAY, OCTOBER 9TH, 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, OCTOBER 13TH, 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 Mu-

PAGE 61

OC Today-Dispatch/Public Notices

OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 21254 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF RONALD WAYNE DURHAM Notice is given that Mary Evelyn Durham, 839 Ocean Hwy., Pocomoke City, MD 21851-3011, was on August 31, 2026 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Ronald Wayne Durham who died on August 19, 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 28th day of February, 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 28th day of February, 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. Mary Evelyn Durham 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: September 10, 2026 OCD-9/10/3t _________________________________

WORCESTER COUNTY

NOTICE

OF PUBLIC HEARING The Worcester County Commissioners will conduct a public hearing and will receive public comment on the following map amendment on Tuesday, October 6, 2026, at 10:30 AM in the Worcester County Government Center, Room 1101, One West Market Street, Snow Hill, Maryland: Rezoning Case No. 452, filed by Hugh Cropper on behalf of KASA Holdings, LLC, property owner, for an amendment to the Official Zoning Maps to change approximately 1.66 acres of land located on the westerly side of Stephen Decatur Highway (MD Route 611) and the easterly side of Sinepuxent Road, West Ocean City, Tax Map 26, Parcel 340, in the Tenth Tax District of Worcester County, Maryland, from A-2 Agricultural District to C-2 General Commercial District. A copy of the file on Rezoning Case No. 452 and the Planning Commission’s recommendation, which will be entered into record at the public hearing, are available to view online at www.co.worcester.md.us or during normal business hours at the Department of Development, Review and Permitting, One West Market Street, Room 1201, Snow Hill, MD. THE WORCESTER COUNTY COMMISSIONERS OCD-9/10/2t _________________________________ WORCESTER COUNTY

NOTICE

OF PUBLIC HEARING The Worcester County Commissioners will conduct a public hearing on Tuesday, October 6, 2026, at 10:35 AM in the Worcester County Government Center, Room 1101, One West Market Street, Snow Hill, Maryland. The purpose of this hearing is to accept public comments regarding the draft 2026 Worcester County Comprehensive Plan. A copy of the proposed planning documents are available to view online at https://www.co.worcester.md.us/comprehensive-plan or during normal business hours at the Department of Development, Review and Permitting, One West Market Street, Room 1201, Snow Hill, MD. THE WORCESTER COUNTY COMMISSIONERS OCD-9/10/2t _________________________________ REGAN J. R. SMITH 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. 21255 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF MICHAEL L. QUILLIN AKA: MICHAEL LYNCH QUILLIN SR. Notice is given that Judy Wildy Quillin, 12933 Pond Rd., Ocean City,

MD 21842-9736, was on September 01, 2026 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Michael L. Quillin who died on August 02, 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 1st day of March, 2027. All persons having any objection to the probate of the will of the decedent shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 1st day of March, 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. Judy Wildy Quillin 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: September 10, 2026 OCD-9/10/3t _________________________________ JAMES E. CLUBB, JR., ESQ. 108 N. 8TH STREET OCEAN CITY, MARYLAND 21842 Council of Unit Owners of Ocean Time Condominium, Inc. Plaintiff v. Lauren E. Bell Scott Bell et al. Defendants IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR WORCESTER COUNTY STATE OF MARYLAND CASE NO. C-23-CV-26-000152

NOTICE

ORDERED, by the Circuit Court for Worcester County, Maryland this 2nd day of September, 2026, that the foreclosure sale of the properties mentioned in these proceedings, made and reported by James E. Clubb, Jr., Trustee, be RATIFIED AND CONFIRMED, unless cause to the contrary thereof be shown on or

PAGE 62 before 5th day of October, 2026, provided a copy of this order be inserted in some weekly newspaper printed in Worcester County, Maryland once in each of three successive weeks, before 28th day of September, 2026. The Report of Sale filed in the above case states the amount of the sales to be as indicated below for the referenced time-share intervals: Timeshare Price Wk 4, #101 $50.00 Wk 7, #101 $50.00 Wk 22, #101 $250.00 Wk 47, #103 $50.00 Wk 22, #104 $250.00 Wk 38, #104 $50.00 Wk 46, #104 $50.00 Wk 35, #105 $50.00 Wk 48, #105 $50.00 Wk 33, #106 $100.00 Wk 3, #201 $50.00 Wk 17, #202 $50.00 Wk 51, #202 $50.00 Wk 16, #206 $50.00 Wk 23, #304 $2,950.00 Wk 24, #304 $100.00 Wk 28, #305 $3,100.00 Wk 8, #306 $50.00 Wk 20, #404 $50.00 Wk 36, #406 $50.00 Wk 1, #501 $50.00 Wk 17, #506 $50.00 Wk 36, #506 $50.00 Susan Braniecki Clerk of the Circuit Court Worcester County, Maryland True Copy Test: Susan R. Braniecki Clerk of the Circuit Court Worcester County MD OCD-9/10/3t _________________________________

OC Today-Dispatch/Public Notices ness and accuracy of their Completed Proposal Documents. A Pre-Proposal Meeting will be held on TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 15TH, 2026 AT 10:00AM EST, AT NORTHSIDE PARK, 200 125TH STREET, OCEAN CITY, MARYLAND 21842, for any questions concerning the Proposal Documents. A site survey shall immediately follow the Pre-Quote Meeting. Vendors interested in additional site survey(s), or Request(s) for Information subsequent to the Pre-Proposal Meeting, may submit such requests formally in writing to the Procurement Manager, who shall review each request on a case-by-case basis. The Last Day for Questions will be on TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 29TH, 2026, AT 4:00PM EST. Addendum will be posted by close of business on WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 30TH, 2026. Sealed Proposal Documents are due no later than THURSDAY, OCTOBER 15TH, 2026, BY 4:00PM EST. Proposal submissions will be opened, read aloud, and then remanded back to staff for further review at the PROCUREMENT OFFICE CONFERENCE ROOM, ON FRIDAY, OCTOBER 16TH, 2026, AT 10:00AM EST. Proposals are to be submitted to the Procurement Office located at 214 65th Street, Ocean City, Maryland 21842, and the name of the Solicitation (P01-27 – Northside Park Lobby Floor Replacement) must be noted on the outside of the package. Late Proposal Documents will not be accepted. Minority Vendors are encouraged to compete for the Award of the Solicitation. OCD-9/10/5t _________________________________

for further information. OCD-9/10/2t _________________________________

TOWN OF BERLIN, MARYLAND

NOTICE

OF A PUBLIC HEARING ORDINANCE 2026-07 AN ORDINANCE OF THE MAYOR AND COUNCIL OF THE TOWN OF BERLIN, MARYLAND, A MARYLAND MUNICIPAL CORPORATION, AMENDING CHAPTER 108, ZONING, ARTICLE VIII, SUPPLEMENTAL DISTRICT REGULATIONS, BY ADDING A NEW SECTION, ENTITLED “ACCESSORY DWELLING UNITS IN R1 AND R-2 ZONES” This ordinance is scheduled for introduction and first reading on Monday, September 14, 2026, at 6:00 PM. A public hearing on the ordinance will be held on Monday, September 28, 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-9/10/2t _________________________________

Mayor & City Council Ocean City, Maryland

PROPOSAL SOLICITATION

P01-27 – Northside Park Lobby Floor Replacement The Mayor & City Council of Ocean City is seeking Proposals from qualified and experienced Vendors to provide for the Northside Park Lobby Floor Replacement and for said work to conform with the Proposal Documents. Proposal Documents for the Northside Park Lobby Floor Replacement may be obtained from the Town’s Procurement Department by either e-mailing the Procurement Manager, Matt Perry, at mperry@oceancitymd.gov or Dawn Leonard at dleonard@oceancitymd.gov, or by calling (410) 723-6643 during regular business hours, or via the Solicitations tab on the Town’s (https://oceancitymd.gov/oc/procurement-bids/) website. Vendors are responsible for checking this website for Addenda before submitting their Proposals. The Town is not responsible for the content of any Proposal Document received through any third-party service. Vendors are responsible for ensuring the complete-

TOWN OF BERLIN, MARYLAND

PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION

NOTICE

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

ORDINANCE 2026-06

Pursuant to the provisions of Chapter 110, Zoning, of the Code of the Town of Ocean City, Maryland, notice is hereby given that a public hearing will be conducted by the Planning and Zoning Commission in the Council Chambers of City Hall located at 301 Baltimore Avenue in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland on: TUESDAY, OCTOBER 6, 2026 At 6:30 PM To consider amending Chapter 110, entitled Zoning, of the Code of the Town of Ocean City, Maryland be, and it is hereby amended by amending sections 110-2, 110-75, 110-275, 110-485, 110-515, 110-665, 110-695, 110-845, 110-861.4, and adding 110-888 to include and designate accessory dwelling units (ADUs) as a permitted use on any lot with an existing single-family detached dwelling unit and establish standards for the same. APPLICANT: PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION (PZ FILE

OF A PUBLIC HEARING

AN ORDINANCE OF THE MAYOR AND COUNCIL OF THE TOWN OF BERLIN, MARYLAND, A MARYLAND MUNICIPAL CORPORATION, AMENDING CHAPTER 16, ENTITLED FIRE PREVENTION AND PROTECTION, ARTICLE II, ENTITLED OUTDOOR BURNING. This ordinance is scheduled for introduction and first reading on Monday, September 14, 2026, at 6:00 PM. A public hearing on the ordinance will be held on Monday, September 28, 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

SEPTEMBER 18, 2026 #26-14100001) No oral or written testimony will be accepted after the close of the public hearing. Public hearings that are not completed at one meeting may be continued without additional advertised notice provided the Commission Chairperson announces that the hearing will be continued and gives persons in attendance an opportunity to sign up for written notice of the additional hearing dates. For further information concerning this public hearing, please contact the Department of Planning and Community Development, Room 242, City Hall, 301 Baltimore Avenue, Ocean City, MD 21842. Phone 410-289-8855. PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION JOSEPH P. WILSON, CHAIRPERSON MAUREEN HOWARTH, ESQ., ATTORNEY OCD-9/10/4t _________________________________

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, September 24, 2026 AT 6:00 P.M. Pursuant to the provisions of Section 110-93(2), Powers of the Code, an application has related to Section 110-94(2)(b) has been filed to request a special parking exception to waive five (5) off-street parking spaces so that an existing outdoor seating area of Bull on the Beach may be served by a proposed enclosed pergola. The Property is described as the Re-subdivided Lots of 1, 16, 17, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6, Block 59, of the Original Oceanbay City Plat. It is further described as Tax Map 115, Parcel 1428A, and as being located on the southeast corner of Coastal Highway and 94th Street which is locally known as Bull on the Beach at 17 94th Street, in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland. APPLICANT: GGI BUILDS, INC. C/O RICH HERTZOG (BZA 2752 #26-09400015) AT 6:15 P.M. Pursuant to the provisions of Section 110-93(2), Powers of the Code, an application related to Section 110-94(3)(b) has been filed to request a special yard exception for a proposed enclosed sunroom to be 7 feet

SEPTEMBER 18, 2026 from a rear property line, rather than the 15 feet as required by Code. The Property is described as Lot 12, Block J, of the Oceanbay City Plat. It is further described as being located on the west side of West Biscayne Drive and is locally known as 9203 West Biscayne Drive, in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland. APPLICANT: ALESSANDRO TACCONELI (BZA 2751 #2609400014) AT 6:30 P.M. Pursuant to the provisions of Section 110-93(3), Powers of the Code, an application related to Section 110-95(1)(a) has been filed to request (1) an after-the-fact variance of 0.6 feet from the 5-foot side yard setback requirement for an existing covered porch to be 4.4 feet from the side lot line; (2) an after-the-fact variance of 0.4 feet from the 5-foot side yard setback requirement for an existing dwelling to be 4.6 feet from a side lot line; and (3) an after-the-fact variance of 0.1 feet from the 5-foot side yard setback requirement for an existing dwelling to be 4.9 feet from the side lot line. The Property is described as Lot 1135, Section 3, of the Montego Bay Mobile Home Park Plat. It is further described as being located on the west side of Beachcomber Lane and is locally known as 179 Beachcomber Lane, in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland. APPLICANT: HUGH CROPPER IV, ESQUIRE, FOR SEAN AND PATRICIA CHENWORTH (BZA 2749 #26-09500003) Further information concerning the public hearings may be examined in the office of the Department of Planning and Community Development in City Hall. Christopher Rudolf, Chairman Maureen Howarth, Attorney OCD-9/10/2t _________________________________ 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 Estate No. 21186 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF KELLY MARIE FREBURGER Notice is given that Spiros P. Buas, 9923 Stephen Decatur Hwy., #D3, Ocean City, MD 21842-9658, was on September 08, 2026 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Kelly Marie Freburger who died on May 23, 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 8th day of March, 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 8th day of March, 2027.

PAGE 63

OC Today-Dispatch/Public Notices 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. Spiros P. Buas 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: September 17, 2026 OCD-9/17/3t _________________________________ Aldridge | Pite, LLP 6001 Executive Blvd, Suite 200 Rockville, MD 20852 ANDREW J. BRENNER, et. al. 6001 Executive Blvd, Suite 200 Rockville, MD 20852 Substitute Trustees/Plaintiffs, vs. ASHLEY NICOLE TOWSON RUSSELL SCOTT TOWSON JENNIFER LYNN TOWSON 13341 Peachtree Road Ocean City, MD 21842 Defendant(s). IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR WORCESTER COUNTY, MARYLAND Case No.C-23-CV-26-000053

NOTICE

Notice is hereby given this 9th day of September, 2026, by the Circuit Court for Worcester County, Maryland, that the sale of the property mentioned in these proceedings and described as 13341 Peachtree Road, Ocean City, MD 21842, made and reported by the Substitute Trustee, will be RATIFIED AND CONFIRMED, unless cause to the contrary thereof be shown on or before the 12th day of October, 2026, provided a copy of this NOTICE be inserted in some weekly newspaper printed in said County, once in each of three successive weeks before the 5th day of October, 2026. The report states the purchase price at the Foreclosure sale to be $546,700.00. Susan R. Braniecki Clerk, Circuit Court for Worcester County, Maryland True Copy Test: Susan R. Braniecki Clerk of the Circuit Court Worcester County MD

OCD-9/17/3t _________________________________

INVITATION FOR BIDS Paving Projects for FY27

Worcester County is accepting Bids from qualified vendors to contract for FY27 Paving Projects in conformity with the requirements contained in the Bid Documents. Bid Documents for the above referenced project may be obtained from the Worcester County Commissioner’s Office by either e-mailing the Procurement Officer at purchasing@worcestermd.gov or via the online Bid Board on the County’s website. Vendors are responsible for checking this website for addenda prior to submitting their bids. Worcester County is not responsible for the content of any Bid Document received through any third-party bid service. It is the sole responsibility of the vendor to ensure the completeness and accuracy of their Completed Bid Documents. The last date/time for questions will be noon on September 30, 2026. Sealed Bid Documents are due no later than October 9, 2026, at 2 p.m. and will be opened and read aloud in the Office of the County Commissioners, Worcester County Government Center – Room 1103, One West Market Street, Snow Hill, Maryland 21863. Late Bid Documents cannot be accepted. Envelopes shall be marked “FY27 Paving Projects” in the lower lefthand corner. Minority vendors are encouraged to compete for award of the bid. OCD-9/17/1t _________________________________ RAYMOND H. SIMMONS JR. SIMMONS AND DODD, LLP 402A ACADEMY ST. CAMBRIDGE, MD 21613-1809

NOTICE

OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 21250 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF THEODORE ROBBINS II AKA: THEODORE ROBBINS Notice is given that Jacob Theodore Robbins, 149 Nottingham Ln., Berlin, MD 21811-1663, was on September 03, 2026 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Theodore Robbins II who died on July 16, 2026, with a will. Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal representative or the attorney. All interested persons or unpaid claimants having any objection to the appointment of the personal representative shall file their objection with the Register of Wills on or before the 3rd day of March, 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

3rd day of March, 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. Jacob Theodore Robbins 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: September 17, 2026 OCD-9/17/3t _________________________________

NOTICE

OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 21263 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF JAMES EDWARD QUILLEN JR. Notice is given that Gabrielle Quillen Windsor, 12112 Sheppards Crossing Rd., Whaleyville, MD 21872-2068, was on September 08, 2026 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of James Edward Quillen Jr. who died on July 24, 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 8th day of March, 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 8th day of March, 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

PAGE 64

OC Today-Dispatch/Public Notices

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. Gabrielle Quillen Windsor 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: September 17, 2026 OCD-9/17/3t _________________________________ IN THE ORPHANS’ COURT FOR (OR) BEFORE THE REGISTER OF WILLS FOR WORCESTER COUNTY, MARYLAND IN THE ESTATE OF: JAMES MICHAEL VOLK AKA: JAMES V. VOLK ESTATE NO. 21269

NOTICE

OF JUDICIAL PROBATE To all Persons Interested in the above estate: You are hereby notified that a petition has been filed by Esther Volk Crawford, 6827 Greenfern Lane, Jacksonville, MD 32277 for judicial probate of the will dated September 28, 1992 and 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 October 20, 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: September 17, 2026 OCD-9/17/2t _________________________________ SMALL ESTATE

NOTICE

OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 21264 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF BARBARA LEE BEARD Notice is given that Stephen James Beard, 20 Ebb Tide Ct., Berlin, MD 21811-1746, was on September 08, 2026 appointed personal representative of the small estate of Barbara Lee Beard who died on July 28, 2026, with a will. Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in

the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal representative or the attorney. All interested persons or unpaid claimants having any objection to the appointment 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. Stephen James Beard 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: September 17, 2026 OCD-9/17/1t _________________________________ G. CHRISTOPHER WRIGHT, ESQ. 124 S. ROYAL ST. ALEXANDRIA, VA 22314-3328

NOTICE

TO CREDITORS OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE ESTATE NO. 21271 NOTICE IS GIVEN that the Circuit court of Fairfax County, Virginia appointed Michael Shane Morris, 8000 Folkstone Rd., Manassas, VA 20111-2586 as the Personal Representative of the Estate of Patricia B. Morris, AKA: Patricia Beavers Morris who died on July 13, 2025 domiciled in Virginia, United States. The name and address of the Maryland resident agent for service of process is Myles Christopher Morris, 3636 Day Rd., Darlington, MD 21034-1022. 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 de-

livers 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. Michael Shane Morris 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: September 17, 2026 OCD-9/17/3t _________________________________

SEPTEMBER 18, 2026 AT 4:00PM EST. Addendum will be posted by close of business on FRIDAY, OCTOBER 2ND, 2026. Sealed Proposal Documents are due no later than THURSDAY, OCTOBER 8TH, 2026, BY 4:00PM EST. Proposal submissions will be opened, read aloud, and then remanded back to staff for further review at the PROCUREMENT OFFICE CONFERENCE ROOM, ON FRIDAY, OCTOBER 9TH, 2026, AT 10:00AM EST. Proposals are to be submitted to the Procurement Office located at 214 65th Street, Ocean City, Maryland 21842, and the name of the Solicitation (P02-27 – Ocean City Fire Department Boat Lift Replacement) must be noted on the outside of the package. Late Proposal Documents will not be accepted. Minority Vendors are encouraged to compete for the Award of the Solicitation. OCD-9/17/3t _________________________________

NOTICE

Mayor & City Council Ocean City, Maryland

PROPOSAL SOLICITATION P02-27 – Ocean City Fire Department Boat Lift Replacement

The Mayor & City Council of Ocean City is seeking Proposals from qualified and experienced Vendors to provide for the Ocean City Fire Department Boat Lift Replacement and for said work to conform with the Proposal Documents. Proposal Documents for the Ocean City Fire Department Boat Lift Replacement may be obtained from the Town’s Procurement Department by either e-mailing the Procurement Manager, Matt Perry, at mperry@oceancitymd.gov or Dawn Leonard at dleonard@oceancitymd.gov, or by calling (410) 7236643 during regular business hours, or via the Solicitations tab on the Town’s (https://oceancitymd.gov/oc/ procurement-bids/) website. Vendors are responsible for checking this website for Addenda before submitting their Proposals. The Town is not responsible for the content of any Proposal Document received through any third-party service. Vendors are responsible for ensuring the completeness and accuracy of their Completed Proposal Documents. A Pre-Proposal Meeting will be held on TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 22ND, 2026 AT 10:00AM EST, AT THE OCEAN CITY FIRE BOAT LIFT, 13TH STREET AND THE BAY, OCEAN CITY, MARYLAND 21842, for any questions concerning the Proposal Documents. A site survey shall immediately follow the Pre-Quote Meeting. Vendors interested in additional site survey(s), or Request(s) for Information subsequent to the Pre-Proposal Meeting, may submit such requests formally in writing to the Procurement Manager, who shall review each request on a case-by-case basis. The Last Day for Questions will be on THURSDAY, OCTOBER 1ST, 2026,

OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS To all persons interested in the estate of ANN MARIE KEEN Estate No. 21219 Notice is given that NANCY WISE whose address is 8 WINDING LN., WILMINGTON, DE 19809-2817 was on SEPTEMBER 09, 2026 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of ANN MARIE KEEN who died on JULY 27, 2026 without a will. Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal representative or the attorney. All interested persons or unpaid claimants having any objection to the appointment of the personal representative shall file their objection with the Register of Wills on or before the 9th day of MARCH, 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 9th day of MARCH, 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-9/17/3t _________________________________

OC Today-Dispatch

’ s g n Incl i h t ud y r Ev T Th he — e ve — Even

PAGE 65

SEPTEMBER 18, 2026

BEAC ACH NEW HO HOM MES AT THE E BEACH BEA FROM THE $20 $200S–$800 –$ $800S

Acadia Landing LEWES, DE

Pelican Point MILLSBORO, O, DE

New Phase Open Single Family Homes from the Mid $400s

Now Selling Single Family Homes from the Upper $30 00s

ballenger creek HARBESON, DE

Somer rton Chase MILLSBORO, O, DE

Now Selling Single Family Homes from the Upper $400s

Now Selling Single Family Homes from the Upper $300s

Bridgewater FRANKFORD, DE Now Selling Single Family Homes from the Low $500s

SOUTH SHORE AT Plantation Lakes Golf & Countr ry Club MILLSBORO, O, DE

deer creek LINCOLN, DE

Now Selling Single Family Homes from the Upper $30 00s Now Selling Villas and T To ownhomes from the Upper $2 200s

Now Selling Single Family Homes from the Mid $500s

the oaks GEORGETOWN, DE forest landing ELLENDALE, DE Now Selling Single Family Homes from the Mid $300s Now Selling Villas from the Low $300s

Coming Soon Townhomes

vines creek crossing FRANKFORD, DE Townhomes, and V Villas Coming Soon Single Family Homes, To

four winds farm MIL LTON, DE Now Selling Single Family Homes from the Upper $400s

Westwood MILFORD, DE Coming Soon Single Family Homes and Villas

liber rty east MILLSBORO, DE Now Selling Single Family Homes from the Upper $300s

LAKESIDE AT TRAPPE CAMBRIDGE, MD 00s Only 1 Remains! Single Family Home from the Low $40

Newdale acres ELLENDALE, DE Now Selling—Phase II Single Family Homes from the Mid $300s

Tides at River Marsh CAMBRIDGE, MD To ownhom mes Now Selling Single Family Homes, Villas, and T from the Upper $200s

LennarAtTheBeach.com | 302.660.1366 Images are solely for illustrative purposes and should never be relied upon. Yo You should never rely on the accuracy of photographs or videos in making any decisions relative to purchasing any property. We reserve the right to makee changes at any time without notice. Please see your New Home Consultant and home purchase agreement for actual features designated as an Everything’s Included feature, additional information, disclosures, and disclaimers relating to your hhome and its relied upon. You should never rely on the accuracy of this map in making any decisions relative to purchasing any property. Visit Lennar.com or see a Lennar New Home Consultant for further details and important legal disclaimers. Void where prohibited by law. Copyright © 2026 Lennar Corporation Lennar, the Lennar logo are U.S. registered service marks or service marks of Lennar Corporation and/or its subsidiaries. U.S. Home Corporation, MHBR #316. Date 009/26

OC Today-Dispatch

PAGE 66

SEPTEMBER 18, 2026

Berlin approves contract for stormwater upgrade project By Tara Fischer Staff Writer (Sept. 18, 2026) The Town of Berlin approved a contract with Groundwork Solutions Inc. on Monday to handle its Westminster, Abbey and Upshur stormwater management upgrades project. The $605,684 project, approved by the Berlin Town Council in July, will improve water quality in Newport Bay while also helping to reduce flooding. Groundwork Solutions has worked with the town before, including the ongoing Town Hall renovation project. The construction phase of the stormwater management upgrades is paid for through the town’s agreement with the Maryland Coastal Bays Program, which established a budget of $650,000. According to a staff report, this budget includes construction and EA Engineering’s “effort to perform construction administration and parttime inspection services.” EA is the town’s engineering consultant. Groundwork Solutions’ initial bid was nearly $625,000. With EA Engineering’s professional services, the total exceeded the budget established with MCBP.

To cover the deficit, the installation of perimeter chain link fences was removed from the scope of work, with the option for the Town of Berlin to construct them later. This move led to a cost savings of $19,270. EA also offered to adjust the contracted professional services by $6,000 to close the remaining funding gap. The project will modernize and expand two existing stormwater management facilities: one near the end of Upshur Lane and another within Buckingham Estates. Project Engineer Steven Lemasters said this summer that both ponds were built to outdated Maryland stormwater standards and will be converted into submerged gravel wetlands. The work includes excavating and enlarging the existing ponds, installing submerged gravel wetlands, replacing storm drainage infrastructure, constructing new drainage structures, relocating portions of a water main, restoring disturbed areas, and resurfacing portions of Westminster Drive and Abbey Lane. Contractors will also control erosion, maintain traffic, and restore affected driveways, landscaping, and other property elements. Lemasters said at the July meeting that the project features will be de-

Sept. 17 - 24 DAY/TIME Fri-Mon 11am-4pm

ADDRESS

BR/BA

STYLE

Heron Harbour, 120th St., Bayside, Ocean City 1BR/2BR/3BR/4BR+ Condos, Towns & SF

PRICE

AGENT/AGENCY

Nanette Pavier/Holiday Real Estate

Mon-Fri 9am-4pm

12430 Old Bridge Rd., West OC

2BR/2BA

Single Family

from $279,750

Shelly Wilson/Salt Life Community

Friday Noon-2pm

306 14th Street Unit A, Ocean City

3BR/2.5BA

Townhome

$899,900

Nancy Reither/Coldwell Banker Realty

Friday Noon-2pm

12702 Coastal Hwy #202, Ocean City

2BR/2BA

Condo

$399,900

Nancy Reither/Coldwell Banker Realty

Friday 3-5pm

6 60th Street Unit 706, Ocean City

4BR/3.5BA

Condo

$1,399,000

Kim Bounds/Coldwell Banker Realty

Saturday 10am-Noon

104 125th Street #203, Ocean City

2BR/2BA

Condo

$439,900

Nancy Reither/Coldwell Banker Realty

Saturday 10am-Noon

582 Ocean Parkway, Ocean Pines

3BR/2.5BA

Single Family

$494,900

Kim Heaney/BHHS PenFed Realty

Saturday 10am-Noon

211 Williams Street Unit 3, Berlin

1BR/1BA

Condo

$249,900

Lauren Bunting/Keller Williams Realty

Saturday 11am-1pm

63 Chatham Court, Ocean Pines

3BR/2BA

Single Family

$499,000

Debbie Bennington/BHHS PenFed Realty

Saturday 11-1pm

953 Yacht Club Drive, Ocean Pines

3BR/2.5BA

Townhome

$479,900

Katie Landon/Coldwell Banker Realty

Saturday 11am-1pm

607A Salt Spray Road, Ocean City

3BR/3.5BA

Townhome

$1,300,000

Ann Holtz/ Coldwell Banker Realty

Saturday 11am-1pm

22 Capetown Rd, Ocean Pines

4BR/2.5BA

Single Family

$419,900

Rob & Anne-Marie Bouse/RE/MAX Advantage Realty

Saturday 11am-1pm

12089 Saint Martins Neck Rd, Bishopville

5BR/3.5BA

Single Family

$925,000

Power of 2 Team/Hileman Real Estate

Saturday 11am-3pm

12430 Old Bridge Rd., West OC

2BR/2BA

Single Family

from $279,750

Shelly Wilson/Salt Life Community

Saturday Noon-2pm

75 King Richard Rd, Ocean Pines

4BR/3.5BA

Single Family

$814,900

Nancy Reither/Coldwell Banker Realty

Saturday 12:30-2:30pm

6201 Coastal Highway #806, Ocean City

4BR/3BA

Condo

$1,520,000

Nancy Reither/Coldwell Banker Realty

Sunday 11am-1pm

12301 Jamaica Ave #351N, Ocean City

2BR/2BA

Condo

$499,900

Nancy Reither/Coldwell Banker Realty

Sunday 11am-1pm

4 84th Street Unit 6, Ocean City

2BR/2BA

Condo

$499,000

Ann Holtz/Coldwell Banker Realty

Sunday Noon-2pm

104 125th Street #203, Ocean City

2BR/2BA

Condo

$439,900

Nancy Reither/Coldwell Banker Realty

Sunday Noon-2pm

35596 Gloucester Circle, Millsboro, DE

3BR/2.5BA

Townhome

$305,000

Katie Landon/Coldwell Banker Realty

Sunday Noon-2pm

26740 Chatham Lane, Millsboro, DE

3BR/2.5BA

Townhome

$349,900

Katie Landon/Coldwell Banker Realty

Sunday Noon-2pm

26738 Chatham Lane, Millsboro, DE

3BR/2.5BA

Townhome

$347,500

Katie Landon/Coldwell Banker Realty

Monday 11am-1pm

4 93rd Street #503, Ocean City

1BR/1.5BA

Condo

$439,900

Nancy Reither/Coldwell Banker Realty

Presented free as a courtesy to Licensed REALTORS® who are regular OC Today-Dispatch & Bayside Gazette Advertisers. $10 for listing without advertisement.

OC Today-Dispatch

SEPTEMBER 18, 2026

Stormwater initiative advances signed to retain more water rather than redirect it. “Everything from the school to the Upshur, Tingle area to Buckingham … all flows out to West Street currently,” he said at the time. “We’re not configuring anything to redirect water. The two stormwater features will hold more water. So you expect to see a reduction of flooding within the roadways themselves.” Councilman Jack Orris asked at the summer session if retaining more water upstream could create problems because the existing drainage pipe at West Street remains only 24

PAGE 67

MOVE-IN READY DOWNTOWN BERLIN 1 BR, 1 BA CONDO

inches in diameter. Lemasters responded that the older facilities were originally designed to manage roughly an inch of rainfall. The upgraded ponds will be able to manage about 3.6 inches of rainfall over 24 hours. Additionally, Council Vice President Dean Burrell also asked at the previous council meeting how much additional water the ponds would hold. Lesmasters estimated their storage capacity would increase by roughly four times after construction. Lemasters cautioned that the project is not a complete solution.

OPEN HOUSE SATURDAY 10AM-NOON

ER PRIC

EDUC

TION

211 WILLIAMS STREET UNIT 3 • BERLIN

Cute as a button & move-in ready! This freshly painted, charming 1st-floor, 1 BR, 1BA unit has NOW $249,900 an unbeatable location 1 block to downtown Berlin. Bright kitchen has crisp white cabinets & lots of storage, while soft off-white walls create a clean, inviting feel. Unique brick flooring runs throughout unit, adding character & warmth. Kitchen island has cabinet space & a casual dining space! 2 ceiling fans, in living room &BR. Spacious BR has huge walk-in closet with wood cube storage system & stacked washer & dryer. Fully enclosed patio with privacy fencing - perfect for relaxing outdoors. This secure entry, 8-unit condo building has dedicated parking. This charming unit combines convenience, character & easy access to all that downtown Berlin has to offer!

Lauren Bunting Broker Cell: 410.422.9899 lwbunting@comcast.net www.LaurenBunting.com

6200 Coastal Hwy S-101, Ocean City Office: 410.524.6400

LIKE US ON Licensed in MD, DE

Neighbors Serving Neighbors - One Home at a Time

BUY • SELL • RENT

11065 Cathell Road Ocean Pines

LONG TERM RENTALS 410-208-9200 Ext. 3 800-337-7368

www.HilemanRealEstate.com

SHOULD I SELL MY HOUSE OR RENT IT OUT? CALL US AT 410-208-9200

Terri Bradford Associate Broker, GRI

410-430-6875

Bethany Drew Associate Broker, GRI

15 RIVERSIDE COURT OCEAN PINES

410-430-2602 OPEN HOUSE SATURDAY 11AM-1PM

WIDE-ANGLE RIVER VISTAS

while maintaining a protected

WALK TO

Lynette HUNTINGTON PARK Bridges-Catha Check out this 3 BR, 2 BA

for your watercraft. Cindy Crockett harbor Character, warmth & craftsmanREALTOR®, GRI Licensed in MD

ship define this uniquely designed 4 BR, 2.5 Bath home. The roofline cupola evokes a classic maritimeCindyCrockett7@ inspired charm. Quality-built with gmail.com 2 x 6 exterior wall framing and a 5-course foundation. Newly remodeled 4 years ago, the kitchen contains tile, granite, farmhouse sink, stainless steel appliances, pantry & vaulted ceilings. The 17’ x 12’ primary BR boasts a large sitting room, walk-in closet and an impressive tiled bath with whirlpool tub & skylight. You’ll hear the sound of ripples hitting the dock from your backyard 16’ x 10’ pergola. Enjoy 110' of water frontage overlooking your private boat dock with 2 slips & a lift!?

Cell: 410-430-0587

$1,275,000

Debbie Hileman OWNER/BROKER, GRI & CRS Licensed in MD, DE

43 BIRDNEST DRIVE OCEAN PINES

getaway with happy vibes on a quaint street within Cell: 443-497-3128 Smilin4shore@comcast.net walking distance to 6.6acre Park. Engineered hardwood floors, vaulted ceilings, split bedroom floor plan, granite countertops & a large center island are featured in the spacious and bright kitchen. The showcase of this home is definitely the huge rear 20’ x 14’ screened porch! Furnishings are negotiable. CRS, PMN, GREEN, SRES Licensed in MD, DE

12089 ST. MARTINS NECK RD BISHOPVILLE • Custom-built 5-bedroom, 3.5-bath home with an open floor plan & soaring 10-foot ceilings. • Tucked away from the road on a private 5.41-acre retreat surrounded by nature. • Chef's kitchen features a Monogram gas range, pot filler, pantry, abundant cabinetry & breakfast area. • Impressive 40' x 60' metal outbuilding with electric & two 10-foot overhead doors, ideal for a workshop, storage, or recreational vehicles.

NOW $925,000 Licensed in MD, DE • PO2Team.com • Powerof2@PO2Team.com

NOW $359,900

GOLF COURSE & RIVER VIEWS!

EXCELLENT INCOME - PRODUCING PROPERTY

STUNNING RANCH-STYLE HOME ON A BEAUTIFULLY LANDSCAPED LOT

12540 RIVER RUN LANE #104 OCEAN PINES

104 FRANKLIN AVENUE • BERLIN

1036 OCEAN PARKWAY OCEAN PINES

Located in the quaint town of Historic Berlin! The extra-large lot creates a beautiful rear yard with mature shade trees. Each level contains a 3-bedroom, 1 bath apartment, totally renovated within the past 10 years. Large storage barn. Driveway parks 8 vehicles. Walk to all of the amazing attractions that Berlin offers. Both units are fully leased through Feb. & Mar. of 2027!

This home is over 1,500 sq. ft. featuring 3 BRs and 2 baths. The expansive kitchen is complete with an island, SS appliances, and a cozy breakfast bar. Major renovations in 2024, including new roof, interior paint, doors, fixtures, lighting, and appliances. The primary suite features a tray ceiling, walk-in closet and a spa-like bathroom. From the light-filled sunroom, step outside to discover a covered porch, fire pit, extensive hardscaping, pea gravel, a hot tub, and multiple patios.

$595,000

NOW $524,900

NEW LISTING - Enjoy picturesque views of the golf course and the Saint Martins River from this 4 BR, 3 Bath townhome. Nicely landscaped grounds, DebbieHileman07 spacious front porch, skylight-brightened foyer, @gmail.com cathedral ceiling in the delightful kitchen, featuring granite countertops & SS appliances. LVP flooring shows off the living areas, including a gas fireplace & access to the rear patio. A cozy screened porch connects to the 1st floor primary suite. You will find another bedroom, full bath, laundry room, and single car garage to complete the lower level. The upper level adds 2 additional bedrooms (one with private balcony), a 3rd full bath, and a small loft overlooking the living areas. Walk to the community center, swimming pool and tennis courts. There’s plenty of parking for guests in the adjacent parking lot. Cell:

443-235-5982

$444,900

OC Today-Dispatch

PAGE 68

SEPTEMBER 18, 2026

Berlin to offer EDU payment plans OUR MISSION, YOUR SUCCESS.

Over 75 Years Combined Experience on the Shore! An independent firm of financial planners built on a foundation of service, integrity, independence and trust, serves clients of all financial and income levels

WEALTH MANAGEMENT 401(K) ROLLOVERS RETIREMENT PLANNING TAX PLANNING INSURANCE PLANNING ESTATE PLANNING 9927 STEPHEN DECATUR HWY SUITE 18 WEST OCEAN CITY, MD 21842 410.213.2150 MITCHELLHASTINGSandSWEIGERT.COM Securities offered through Registered Representatives of Cambridge Investment Research, Inc., a broker-dealer member of FINRA/SIPC. Advisory services offered through Cambridge Investment Research, Inc. a Registered Investment Advisor, Mitchell, Hastings & Sweigert Financial Services and Cambridge Investment Research, Inc., are not affiliated

By Tara Fischer Staff Writer (Sept. 18, 2026) About 20 Berlin property owners will receive letters soon notifying them that their water consumption exceeds the amount allocated to them by the town. The town, however, will give these property owners a way to come into compliance without paying the full cost for the amount used. Water allocations are measured in “Equivalent Dwelling Units (EDUs),” which are based on the average water use of a single-family household. One EDU represents an average of 250 gallons per day of usage. When new businesses, specifically, open in Berlin, the town code says there will be a 24-month monitoring period to determine if additional EDUs are required. A two-year review of multiple businesses found around 20 businesses will need to buy additional capacity to continue to operate at current levels. Under the policy discussed by the mayor and Town Council Monday night, property owners who need to buy additional EDUs will have the option to pay 10% up front, along with a 5% administrative fee, and finance the remaining cost over 24 months for one to three new EDUs or up to 60 months for four or more EDUs. The provision follows the installa-

tion of smart meters, which Berlin Mayor Zack Tyndall said has made it easier to identify properties whose actual water consuimption exceeds their current EDU allocation. The municipality is asking these parcels to buy additional EDUs to ensure records reflect the actual water and sewer capacity being used. While some of the 20 properties will need only one or two new connections, others will need a more substantial upgrade to fully comply. Tyndall noted that among the 20 properties, bills range from $17,000 (for one EDU) to $400,000 for highest user. The town will provide these property owners a pathway to finance their new EDUs, recognizing that paying the full cost outright could be a burden on residents and business owners. “You have folks who are using infrastructure, and we need to capture those costs. But we can’t ask for $400,000 in 30 days,” Tyndall said. While the Town Council agreed to the outlined financing option for noncompliant properties, not everyone was initially on board. Before the Town Council amended the administrative fee to 5%, the draft policy set the rate at 3%. Town Administrator Mary Bohlen and Finance Director Natalie Saleh

oppose the town offering financing, arguing the municipality is directly competing with private businesses by offering such a low fee, a practice not advisable for government entities. Additionally, Councilman Steve Green said the 10% down payment is too low. He said he would like to see the initial deposit at around 25% of the full bill but supports financing to help businesses deal with extreme expenses. “We have to protect the town,” he said. However, Tyndall said that for a customer who owes $400,000, they would be required to come up with a hefty $100,000 up front. “We have a healthcare institution that has that bill, and I don’t think that’s right to do that,” the mayor maintained. The outlined policy also requires that the debt be paid in full before ownership of a property out of compliance can be transferred. Bohlen said requests for EDU financing will be approved on a caseby-case basis. The option is only available to properties out of compliance. New developments will still need to purchase their water and sewer connections outright and will not be allowed to seek any type of payment plan through the Town of Berlin.

REAL ESTATE MARKETPLACE

SEARCHING FOR A BARGAIN?

CORNER LOT!!

105 ASSATEAGUE COURT • MONTEGO BAY • OCEAN CITY

400 136TH STREET CAINE WOODS

This one-of-a-kind home is located on one of the biggest lots in Montego Bay with 6,629 Sq ft. With only 14 lots on this street which backs up to the wildlife sanctuary pond and 5-acre park there will be little traffic on this road. As you enter the home you will see a wide-open floor plan with a beautiful kitchen with stainless steel appliances and a large center island with seating and cabinets for storage. Community offers Pools, tennis courts, Mini Golf, Fishing & Crabbing Pier all for $415/Year. Come Check this one out today. Sold Furnished for $479,900 The Original Montego Bay Specialist Since 1971!

Corner lot in Caine Woods right across the street from Gorman Park with Playgrounds, tennis & pickle ball. 3 Bedrooms, 2 full baths with a wideopen floor plan. Large Kitchen with plenty of cabinets for storage. Nice, enclosed Florida room off the Dining room. Walking distance to the beach and the City Bus. Come check out this property today. Sold Furnished For $495,750

Larry Holdren Real Estate, Inc

For More Information Call 800-252-2223 • 410-250-2700

E IC D! PR UCE D RE

13901 Coastal Hwy., #8, Ocean City, MD

www.larryholdrenrealestate.net • email: ocmdhre@gmail.com

ICE ! PR UCED D RE

Serving the Ocean City Community since 1971. 13901 Coastal Hwy., #8, Ocean City, MD

www.larryholdrenrealestate.net • email: ocmdhre@gmail.com

CHARMING 4 BR, 2 BA RESIDENCE with LOW HOA GREAT LOCATION with 2 BOAT SLIPS & A BOATLIFT Beautifully maintained double-wide home in desirable Montego Bay community. Built in 2017, the home has 1,224 SF of comfortable living space, 4 spacious BRs & 2 full BAs. This partially furnished home is ready for you to move in & make your own. Concrete 2-vehicle driveway. With manageable 0.08-acre lot, this home combines comfort & low maintenance living. Embrace the joy of community living moments away from local attractions. Amenities: 2 inground pools, 1 kiddie pool, 2 tennis courts, pickle ball courts, shuffleboard court, 9-hole mini-golf, bayfront boardwalk with 3 fishing/crabbing piers, wildlife sanctuary/park area with 8-acre pond & blacktop walking/jogging path...all for low HOA fee of $415.00/year! Wonderful opportunity for those seeking cozy, inviting space for vacationing or to call home. Don't miss out! Make this delightful residence your own! $499,900

Call Bill Rothstein 800-745-5988 • 443-280-2530 montegobayrealty@aol.com

W ! NETING S LI

138 CLAM SHELL RD MONTEGO BAY OCEAN CITY

12905 Coastal Hwy • Ocean City, MD www.montegobayrealty.com

Only 2 blocks to the beach! Less than a block to the community amenities, multiple restaurants/bars, shopping and the bus stop. This 3 bed/2 bath home is located on a canal in the highly sought after community of Montego Bay in North OC. Home features a private dock/pier/2 boat slips and a boatlift. The home has upgraded kitchen, bathrooms, flooring, and it is being sold fully furnished. Community amenities include 2 inground swimming pools, 1 kiddie pool, 2 tennis courts, pickle ball courts, a shuffleboard court, a 9 hole mini-golf course, a bayfront boardwalk with 3 fishing/crabbing piers, and an 8 acre wildlife sanctuary that has a pond with a blacktop walking/jogging path...all for a low HOA fee of $415.00 a year!!

NOW $669,900 Call Bill Rothstein 800-745-5988 • 443-280-2530 montegobayrealty@aol.com

HUGE PRICE REDUCTION

13009 ATLANTIC BLVD MONTEGO BAY OCEAN CITY

12905 Coastal Hwy • Ocean City, MD www.montegobayrealty.com

OC Today-Dispatch

SEPTEMBER 18, 2026

Touch of Italy says Facebook accounts have been hacked (Sept. 18, 2025) Touch of Italy Hospitality Group is warning customers and the public that several of its business Facebook pages have been compromised and currently are outside the company’s control. The company said unauthorized individuals have posted inflammatory and inappropriate content on the pages that is unrelated to Touch of Italy Hospitality Group or its affiliated properties. Company officials stressed the posts were not created, authorized, endorsed or approved by Touch of Italy and do not reflect the views or values of the company, its management or employees. Touch of Italy is working with Facebook parent company, Meta, and other parties to regain administrative control of the affected pages and remove the unauthorized content. Until control is restored, the company is urging customers and community members not to engage with, respond to or share content appearing on the compromised pages. The public is also being advised to be cautious of messages, links, solicitations or requests for information originating from the affected accounts. “We understand that people who have followed and supported our

SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH

Touch of Italy warns of compromised Facebook pages, including the Ocean Pines Yacht Club.

businesses may be confused or concerned by what they are seeing,” a Touch of Italy Hospitality Group representative said. “We want our community to know unequivocally that these posts are not coming from us. We are working diligently to resolve the situation and regain control of our pages as quickly as possible.” The company said official updates on the situation will be communicated through company-controlled websites and other verified communication channels. Touch of Italy Hospitality Group operates restaurant and hospitality businesses on Delmarva.

Resort Real Estate, Inc. Resort Rentals, LLC

Call Tony Matrona for more info on these properties.

410-641-1671

Lot # 103 REDUCED!

$219,000

Fully Furnished 2 Bedroom Cottage. New Roof in 2020. Updates in the last 3 years; HVAC, Insulation, Windows, Hot Water Heater, Drywall, LVP Floors, Kitchen Cabinets, Countertops, Stainless Steel Appliances, Walk in Shower, Sink & Toilet, French Doors with Built in Blinds, Enclosed Porch with AC & Heat, Composite Deck, Steps & Vinyl Railing, Concrete Driveway. 8 x 10 Shed. Motivated Seller! Make An Offer!

Call Tony Matrona 410-641-1671

Lot # 188 Enjoy a Bay View in this Spacious Turn Key 2 Bedroom. Recently Replaced AC. Drywall Interior, Cathedral Ceiling & Open Concept Living Area. Large Master Bedroom, Gas Stove, Dishwasher, Full Size Washer/Dryer, Courtyard & Shed.

$275,000

Call Tony Matrona 410-641-1671

Lot # 181 Well Kept Turn Key 2 Bedroom. Recent Updates include: HVAC, Siding & Windows in 2025! LVP Flooring! Spacious Kitchen & Dining Area. Washer/Dryer, Enclosed Front Porch. 8 x 10 Shed.

$204,000 410-641-1671

Call Tony Matrona 410-641-1671

assateaguepointesales.com

PAGE 69

OC Today-Dispatch

PAGE 70

SEPTEMBER 18, 2026

33rd

6 n This Mentio OFF 1/2 Ad for tion Applica Fee!

Eastern Shore Assisted Living Facilities - Our Homes Are Here For You...

24 Hour Awake Staff All Private Rooms & Baths Three Home-Cooked Meals a Day! All Inclusive Pricing In-House Doctor Visits VA and MAC Subsidy Approved

Call 443-256-4871 Today for more information or to schedule a visit to our on-site showroom.

Respite Care and Hospice Care

443-256-4871 1135 Ocean Parkway • Ocean Pines, Maryland 21811 • 443-256-4871

OC Today-Dispatch

SEPTEMBER 18, 2026

SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH

NATIONAL AQUARIUM SPEAKER The Kiwanis Club of Ocean Pines/Ocean City welcomed Maddie Welch, response biologist with National Aquarium Animal Rescue, as its guest speaker on Sept. 9 at the Ocean Pines Community Center. She is pictured with Kiwanis Club President Sarah Walker. Welch gave Kiwanians an inside look at the National Aquarium’s work rescuing and rehabilitating seals and sea turtles along Maryland’s coastline, including the important work being done right here on the Eastern Shore.

Celebrating Our 57th Year! OPEN 7 DAYS 11AM-UNTIL

CRABHOUSE

29th Street on Coastal Hwy., Oceanside

kes Best Crab Ca! in Town!!

410-289-8380 • 410-289-4083

Take Out

CRABS TO GO by the by the

BUSHEL DOZEN

(Please Call Ahead)

PARTY TIME! $23900

• 1/2-Bushel Crabs • 2-lb Medium Shrimp • 8 pc Chicken • 6 Corn • Box French Fries

STEAMED o r LIVE

ALL YOU CAN EAT SPECIALS Steamed Crabs

Crab Legs

Steamed Shrimp

EVERY DAY CALL FOR DAILY SPECIALS

Clams • Ribs • Seafood Platters & More! 29th St. • Ocean City, MD

PAGE 71

OC Today-Dispatch

PAGE 72

SEPTEMBER 18, 2026

Ocean City seeking public input on new ADU policies By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor (Sept. 18, 2026) Resort planners will seek public input on a zoning amendment that will authorize the development of accessory dwelling units (ADUs) on property already accommodating single-family detached houses. In July, planning personnel came before the City Council to discuss a new state mandate requiring local governments to adopt laws that facilitate the construction of the accessory housing units. The goal, according to the state Department of Planning, is to help solve a 96,000-unit housing shortage and create affordable housing options for Marylanders. At the council’s direction, staff this summer began drafting an ordinance using the state’s requirements. Now, the Ocean City Planning Commission will hold a public hearing on Oct. 6 to get the public’s views on the subject. “This is a state mandate, a state requirement,” Planning and Community Development Director George Bendler told planning commission members on Tuesday. “All municipalities within the state of Maryland are going under the same guidelines of what the state legislature told us we can and can’t do.”

Berlin Liquor Store Cold & Warm Beer

BEER • LIQUOR • WINE Every Thursday And Sunday Senior Citizens Get

10% OFF

Liquor And Wine

10% OFF

Liquor And Wine

(On Orders Of $50 Or More)

Cannot be combined with any other offer. Must bring in coupon. Expires 10/2/26 • OCTD

Spacious Dining Room

Currently, the city allows accessory structures on single-family lots – for example, a converted room above a garage. However, once those units include kitchens, it becomes a separate dwelling unit, which is currently not allowed in single-family residential districts. State law will now require municipalities to allow ADUs on such lots. Those local regulations must exclude ADUs from density calculations and residential growth limitations and cannot establish setback requirements that are more stringent than those that currently exist. The legislation also prevents municipalities from requiring additional offstreet parking without first conducting a parking study. “The town has a parking consultant they use in the parking department,” Bendler told the commissioners this week. “We discussed with them about doing a parking study. Ultimately, the parking study wasn’t going to yield the results that we needed to get to where we wanted to be with this. And from the mayor and council standpoint, there wasn’t a real will to engage a parking survey. So we took that off the table.”

Large Parties Welcome

HHHH ENTERTAINMENT HHHH

H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H HH

Friday 8pm: CUP OF JOE Saturday: LAST BEACH PARTY W/ JIM LONG 4pm IDENTITY CRISIS 8:30pm

NFL SUNDAYS ON 33 TVS

Ravens & Eagles Headquarters! Birds of a Feather Flock Together...

GAME DAY SPECIALS

Sunday: RAVENS VS SAINTS • 1pm EAGLES VS TITANS • 1pm

Great Seafood, Steaks, Burgers & Crab Cakes “No Mumbo All Jumbo” Happy Hour Sun-Fri 2-5:30pm Food and Drink Specials

Early Bird Special Menu Sun-Fri 2-5:30pm

Mon-Thurs: 2pm • Fri, Sat & Sun: 11:30am

10818 Ocean Gateway, Berlin, MD 21811 410-973-2873

28th St. Plaza • 410-289-3100 • coinspuboc.com Dine In, Carry Out & Online Ordering Available Your Online Community: www.octodaydispatch.com

OC Today-Dispatch

SEPTEMBER 18, 2026

PAGE 73

New state ADU regs mandatory During Tuesday’s meeting, Commissioner Palmer Gillis shared his concerns about parking. While he said he supported the idea of ADUs, he argued any additional bedroom added to a site should require a parking space. “I’m just concerned about how this impacts neighborhoods,” he said. “And when you add an accessory ADU, there are cars involved, and how are you addressing the need for parking? That’s my biggest concern.” While acknowledging the restriction placed on the city, Bendler noted that the proposed zoning amendment does address parking for the primary residence. He noted that the primary structure on the lot must have the required number of parking spaces. “If it does not and has a nonconformity, and they add bedrooms for an ADU, they have to add parking to make the property not increase its nonconformity,” he explained. “We do talk about it in this ordinance.” Commission members this week also discussed what impact, if any, the state mandate would have on Ocean City. With smaller lot sizes, setback requirements and environmental codes all coming into play, officials argued it would be difficult to construct an accessory unit. “From a practical standpoint, putting in an ADU, fitting one, is going to be a real challenge,” Chair Joe Wilson said.

As part of Tuesday’s discussion, Gillis also questioned how ADUs would be used. “Now that we’ve been so unsuccessful with any regulation on short-term rentals, my concern here is when do you convert that ADU into a short-term rental?” he said. Officials noted that there was no restriction on using ADUs as short-term rentals. However, Bendler said the proposed zoning amendment restricts rental licenses to one per lot, meaning that either the primary residence or ADU could have a license, but not both. “We recognize what the intent of the Maryland state legislature was, was to make owning a home more affordable, or affordable housing, or stock,” he said. “We recognize there is a tool where people do use ADUs to pay their mortgages to have a primary house. So they do get one rental license on the property.” Staff this week noted that the proposed zoning amendment was just an introduction and would be discussed further at next month’s public hearing, set for Oct. 6. “Obviously, October 6 will be the public hearing for the proposed ADU amendments, so we do ask that all of you attend, be prepared to discuss, and ask questions,” Zoning Administrator KP Primm said.

MONDAY & TUESDAY Special

Double Crabcake Platter

Two 5 oz. Jumbo Lump Crabcakes w/ Green Beans

ONLY $42

Crabcake Sandwich with Potato Wedges Expires 9/25/26 (Can’t be combined with any other offer. 1 per customer.)

EVERYDAY

Shrimp Special BUY 2 LBS Get 1 LB FREE! Steamed Shrimp w/ Cocktail Sauce & Lemon

SUNDAY FAVORITE A Local Tradition

5 oz. Jumbo Lump Crabcake Baked Potato ONLY $25 House Salad EVERY SUNDAY No Dessert

$20

$2-OFF

Take & Bake Crabcakes Available All Day, Every Day In Our Market & Grab & Go Section

Crabcake & Shrimp $32 (Includes One Side)

Now Shipping Nationwide

Route 611 West OC Next to Food Lion 9936 Stephen Decatur Hwy Ocean City, MD 21842

Open 7 Days a Week 11am-8pm 410-213-2253 (CAKE) TheCrabCakes.com

Tina Dorsey

, REALTOR®

301-875-1821 • www.OCBeachToBay.com Tina.Dorsey13@gmail.com

7408 Coastal Highway Ocean City MD 21842

LICENSED IN MD & DE: MD License #634553 | DE License #RS-0024229 Coastal Association of Realtors® | Greater Ocean City Chamber of Commerce Member

WATERFRONT CUSTOM MASTERPIECE 3 BR, 4 BA HOME • SCENIC COASTAL CHARM on HERRING CREEK

12203 NANAS WAY LANE OCEAN CITY

PRICE REDUCTION

1-of-a-kind home built in 2022 by Mark Iacona & Fivestar Builders offers the ultimate waterfront lifestyle. Accessed by paved private road & driveway, the home has nature & water views in every room. Just minutes to beaches, restaurants & shopping! 111+ feet of newly bulkheaded waterfront for kayaks, canoes, PWC, skiffs & pontoon boats along quiet & scenic stretch of Herring Creek. All-electric home has new well, own water conditioning system & custom shades throughout. Chef's kitchen has premium finishes, 2 walk-in pantries & space to cook & entertain. Main level master suite oversized tile walk-in shower, his-and-her sinks, private water closet & creek views. 2 BRs, 2 full BAs upstairs plus flexible studio space ideal as 4th BR or home office. Openconcept living room has wood-burning fireplace with heatilator & flows to sunroom. Well-designed outdoor deck has 3 electric awnings for cool & comfort. Schedule your showing today & discover this exceptional coastal gem! $

1,255,000 NOW $1,124,999

PAGE 74

SEPTEMBER 18, 2026

OC Today-Dispatch

SURF REPORT

The Adventures

by Steve Green

of Fatherhood

t this point in my life, there are few places I would rather be than surrounded by people with special needs. I owe that to my son Carson. Carson, 16, is nonverbal and Autistic, and he has led my wife, Pam, son, Beckett, and me on the most unbelievable journey. It is a life we never could have imagined for ourselves and certainly one we never would have known how to prepare for. Through it all, I believe Carson has changed me forever. Last weekend was one of those times when I found myself thinking about the blessings that come from having people with special needs in our lives. Yes, they are different. Yes, there are challenges. Yes, there are difficult moments that can come without warning. Our family knows all about those realities. But it would be foolish to let those observations cloud many incredible everyday moments that make this life meaningful on a completely different and often complex level. There is a joy, sincerity and authenticity that I am not sure I fully appreciated before Carson came into our lives. With Carson, life is both simple and complicated. I understand that may not make sense, but it is true. It is simple because when people meet Carson where he is — with patience, understanding and acceptance — things usually go well. The complicated part comes with the many layers of Autism and the reality there is no single approach that works for everyone. To know one person with special needs is simply to know one person with special needs. Each individual is different, with a unique set of challenges, strengths, personalities and abilities. Each deserves to be appreciated for exactly who they are. Last weekend provided several reminders. On Friday night, Carson's youth group held its prom. The FFIND Ministry — Finding Friends with Needs & Disabilities — through Berlin Baptist Church is an amazing program. It brings together people with special needs, from sixth grade through adulthood, to socialize, have fun and sim-

Locallyy F Famous For 48 Years!

ply be themselves. The adults who lead the ministry are people I consider angels on earth. For the prom, everyone got dressed up. Carson walked the red carpet with his mom before heading inside for dinner and dancing. It was heartwarming to watch. Over the years, I have gotten to know many members of the group. One of my favorite things is when they see me and yell my name. One of those friends is James, who has Down syndrome. As James walked the red carpet, I was able to greet him. He immediately gave me a hug. "Coach Steve, I missed you. Let's play soccer," he said. That's James. Pam and I coach James and a group of special needs school-age players through our TOPSoccer program at River Soccer Club each fall, winter and spring. We have received far more from this program than we ever could have imagined when Carson first became involved. Carson started TOPSoccer when he was 6 years old. A decade later, he is now a buddy, helping other players. His older brother, Beckett, has been involved as well for many years. Another soccer player at the prom was Conor, who also has Down syndrome. Conor is the greatest hype man anyone could ever want. As he made his way down the red carpet, he had everyone smiling from ear to ear. Watching him, you would have thought he had just won an Olympic gold medal. He owned the moment, and everyone around him loved seeing it. There is a pure and innocent joy on display when these kids are having fun and are comfortable enough to simply be themselves. It's infectious. We see the same thing in soccer. Throughout each TOPSoccer session, there are trials and tribulations. Some kids struggle with kicking the ball. Others have difficulty staying focused or following directions. For some, just stepping onto the field and participating is a victory. Then something clicks. A player who would not leave a parent's side starts running onto the field. Someone who struggled to kick the ball suddenly scores a goal. A player begins

Brea fast Break Breakf

Caaf Cafe C

Sub ubS

S Sand andwiCh he eS

410-213-1804 4 12736 Ocean Gateway Rt. 50 W We est Ocean City (Located by Comfort Inn Suites Across From O Outback Steak House)

interacting with a buddy in a way he or she hadn't before. Those moments matter. I love watching the progress from the beginning of our sessions to the end, but what I enjoy most are the smiles and relationships that develop between the players and their volunteer buddies. Last year, I learned several of our buddies wrote their college application essays about their experiences with TOPSoccer. I didn't get to read all of them, but I did read one from a former student. The essay was about acceptance and what this young person had learned from spending time with people whose lives looked different from his own. The lesson was essentially this: People who are different from us have incredible worth if we are willing to open our eyes and get to know them. That's a pretty powerful lesson for a teenager. It's also one I continue learning as an adult. Carson has introduced our family to a world we probably never would have known otherwise. Through him, we have met remarkable kids, adults, parents, siblings, coaches, teachers, therapists and volunteers. We share an unspoken bond with many of these families. We know our journeys are different. We know there are challenges most people never see. We understand the exhaustion, worry and uncertainty. But we also understand the victories. Sometimes those victories would seem insignificant to someone on the outside. To us, they can mean everything. That's the thing about this special needs world. The struggles and victories somehow merge together to create experiences that can be incredibly moving. Of all the places I find myself these days, I am happiest surrounded by these kids and their families. Carson brought me into this world. I can't imagine my life without it.

(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.)

Fall months bring back better surf conditions usually By Dave Dalkiewicz Contributing Writer (Sept. 18, 2026) Okay, so here we are at the second half of September. The warm season is starting to wane and anticipation for a start-up to surf larger than waist high is apparent. Meteorological fall started on September 1 and the equinox and beginning of astronomical fall is on the 22nd of September this year. During this autumn season, we get “paid back” for the much colder winter/spring season. This is all due to the vagaries of the ocean water temperature. It’s much warmer now than in the spring. A lot of surfers look to this period of time as a distinctive surf season. Weather patterns begin to change and tropical storm possibilities promote hope for significant ocean activity. Surf able waves with a bit more magnitude is the desire. So what to do? Here are a few suggestions. Don’t be jaded by the lame summer. Keep an eye on forecasts, as in wind conditions and surf reports. Stay in touch with like-minded friends who want the good surf as much as you do. Be ready with good equipment as in a proper board or boards and decent wetsuit gear. Maybe go for a paddle if the surf is tiny or even flat. Trying to maintain some semblance of conditioning and keeping a connection to the ocean is always a good idea. Hopefully this season of change will prove to be better than the last few months. One can only be optimistic and a few prayers wouldn’t hurt. We shall see. Dave Dalkiewicz is the owner of Ocean Atlantic Surf Shop in Ocean City

Years On!

OC Today-Dispatch

SEPTEMBER 18, 2026

PAGE 75

Berlin Fiddler’s Convention to feature music and spirits Weekend lineup includes Flatland Drive, Berlin Airlift, The Folk Villains, and more By Tara Fischer Staff Writer (Sept. 17, 2026) The Berlin Fiddler’s Convention returns for its 33rd year this weekend with a name change and rebrand intended to feature the traditional blue grass, country and classic old-time music while also highlighting the area’s distilleries and breweries. The event’s 2026 iteration, set for Friday, Sept. 18 and Saturday, Sept. 19, is officially titled the Annual Fiddler’s Convention and Spirits Festival. Hosted by the Berlin Chamber of Commerce, the event this year also will shine a light on local spirits. The chamber announced the slate of musical performances last week. Friday night’s roster, to play onstage near The Sterling Tavern, includes Danny Paisley and Southern Grass from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. and Flatland Drive from 8 p.m. to 10 p.m. The music convention will showcase two Saturday stages: the traditional Main Stage located on Pitts Street and a local band stage next to and sponsored by The Sterling Tavern.

Saturday’s Pitts Street Main Stage will feature The Stringbuzzards from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., Amateur Competitions and The Folk Villains from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m., and Sons of Pirates from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. Over on the local’s stage on Saturday, Stevenson’s Crossroads will perform from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Berlin Airlift will go on at 3 p.m. and wrap up around 5 p.m. Chamber President David Fitzgerald said this second stage is intended to feature local bands “and give attendees options if fiddlers’ music is not their taste.” Organizers have advertised this year’s event as not just a music-only celebration. To support local businesses, Eastern Shore distilleries and breweries will be downtown during the concerts to offer guests a sample of their products. The regional alcohol businesses planning to appear are Berlin Beer Co, Burley Oak, Forgotten 50, and Lyon Rum. The chamber president noted that his team hopes adding a spirits component to the weekend will increase attendance and prop up the area’s beer and liquor enterprises. “We hope this change will attract adSee BERLIN Page 77

Your Countertop Specialists

Fabricating & installing quartz, granite and solid surface tops Up to date, state of the art equipment

Family Owned & Operated

SINCE 1982

Call: 443.856.4437 or See Us On Facebook 34407 Dupont Blvd., Unit 9 • (Rt. 113 North) Frankford, DE Visit our website for showroom hours • www.creativeincounters.com

COVID-19 Staff Vaxed Virtual Appts. Available

Estate Planning Wills & Trusts Powers of Attorney Medical Directives Elder Law 9748 Stephen Decatur Hwy. #112 Ocean City, MD 21842 NEW LOCATION

1321-B Mt. Hermon Rd. Salisbury, MD 21804

443-856-4676 Monday-Friday www.batielaw.com

Flat Fee Available Home Visits Available Upon Request

PAGE 76

OC Today-Dispatch

vanishing

OCEAN CITY

With Bunk Mann

SEPTEMBER 18, 2026

Things I Like... By Steve Green Sunday talks with our college kid The high road as the best road Walking barefoot over a freshly cut lawn Watching a good coach’s speech My kids unloading the groceries Transparency

Ocean City was a seasonal small town in 1946. The season ran from Memorial Day to Labor Day. It was said you could fire a cannon down Baltimore Avenue after Labor Day and not hit a single soul. The Boardwalk ended at 15th Street and Coastal Highway was only one lane north and one lane south. On windy days, it was often covered in sand. The Commander was the most northern hotel in Ocean City at this time. The photo shows the beachfront from 8th to 12th streets. The large Boardwalk hotels are the Lankford, the George Washington, the Royalton, the Mayflower and the Stephen Decatur. Today, only the Lankford remains. The road behind the buildings is Philadelphia Avenue. St. Louis Avenue had not extended that far north in 1946. The Ship Café can be seen near the bayside while the undeveloped area in the upper right is today’s residential neighborhood Mallard Island. To purchase one of Bunk Mann’s books, click over to www.vanishingPhoto courtesy Steve Smethurst oc.com.

At least two away vacations a year Uninterrupted sleep Weekends with no plans Any breakfast meat A heavy rocks glass

SEPTEMBER 18, 2026

OC Today-Dispatch

PAGE 77

REAL ESTATE REPORT

Challenges now facing the housing market By Lauren Bunting Contributing Writer (Sept. 18, 2026) At the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) 2026 Leadership Summit in Chicago, Illinois, Dr. Lawrence Yun, Chief Economist for NAR presented his Housing Market & Economic Outlook. The Coastal Association of REALTORS sends their CEO, Bernie Flax, and Incoming President each year to bring back valuable industry information. Below is part three of a summary on some of his key points: AI Is Creating a New Source of Capital Demand Yun spent considerable time discussing the artificial-intelligence investment boom. The growth of AI is

generating tremendous demand for data centers, computing infrastructure and electricity. Technology companies initially financed much of this investment through their own cash flow. Increasingly, however, companies are borrowing money to finance data-center construction and other AI infrastructure. That matters to housing. Federal Debt Is Another LongTerm Interest-Rate Concern Yun also focused on the growing federal debt. His chart illustrated the continuing gap between federal gov-

ernment spending and tax revenue. The cumulative result, he said, is federal debt approaching approximately $42 trillion. Large-scale government borrowing matters to housing because the federal government is competing for capital in the same financial system that provides funding for mortgages. In simple terms: The more money the federal government must borrow, the greater the competition for available capital—and that can contribute to higher long-term interest rates. This is one reason Yun believes the economy may remain in a relatively high-interest-rate environment longer than many had hoped. Labor Market: Slow Job Creation but Continued Worker Shortages

Berlin gears up for folk festival zation is currently forming a committee for next year’s Jazz and Blues Festival. In the meantime, the chamber is encouraging residents and visitors to listen to this weekend’s music. “Bring a chair and enjoy the Friday night and Saturday event,” Fitzgerald said. “There’s lots of great music and vendors, and also support our local restaurants and businesses.”

0/.-,+*)(,'&%,$/##)()".,.)! ,.! ) ,.+, -++ ),#(+ ,

! )(/ ! , !( ) ., ) ) ./+" ! ! )( )(/ ( / / ! ! ! , ! ,, ! !( ! ( ( ) ) ., ) . , ) , ) ) ) ) ) ) . ) . . /+ //+" +" +#,/" .+ ,.! ) + # ,/ +#,/ +# ,/" " . " . .+ + ,,.)! . ! ,. .) .! ! ) ! ) ) ) !

! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! !

! "

Continued from Page 75 ditional attendees to support our local breweries and distilleries,” he said. Food vendors will also be at this weekend’s festival. Also, spectators are invited to browse booths from nonprofits and craftspeople between acts. Anyone interested in serving on an event committee can contact the chamber’s office. Fitzgerald said the organi-

The employment picture is complicated. Job creation has slowed substantially, and Yun noted that the country has added only about half a million jobs year to date, with a recent month showing job losses. Yet unemployment remains relatively low. At the same time, construction and other industries continue experiencing labor shortages. Those shortages can put upward pressure on wages, which can then contribute to inflation. The result is another conflicting economic signal: slower overall job creation combined with tight labor conditions in important sectors of the economy. Lauren Bunting is the Broker of Record for Keller Williams Realty Delmarva in Ocean City

" "! ! ! !! ! !!

!! ! ! !

' , ,- ' ' , , , , ,,- ,+ + , , , , ,, , , / ,,$),' , $),' $) ,' ,' # ,/

' ' ' '

Opinions

Sept. 18, 2026

Page 78

ADU’s purpose needs defining The first thing Ocean City’s elected officials, planning commissioners, and residents need to do when they begin hashing out the rules for the placement of Accessory Dwelling Units on lots already occupied by single-family housing is establish who can live in them. Otherwise, this so-called response to the housing shortage will devolve into another local property-rights debate, as some owners will view the advent of ADUs as another investment opportunity. When the Maryland General Assembly in 2025 approved the return of secondary living quarters on single-family zoned lots — garage apartments, cottages, and in-law suites were common before the 1960s — legislators left the real work on this arrangement up to local governments. In essence, the law simply makes it legal, beginning Oct. 1, to place two housing units on a property previously restricted to one. Issues such as design, size, and uses will be determined by the local authorities, such as Worcester County, the towns and homeowners associations. Ideally, these smaller housing units will be used by family members aging in place, young people just starting out, or even as workforce housing. But nothing currently prevents homeowners in single-family zoning districts from trying to recover the significant cost of adding separate living quarters by renting them out on weekends. As for the legislature's effort to encourage affordable housing through ADUs, one question remains: Affordable to whom? Not everyone living in an R-1 district has an extra $150,000–$200,000 on hand to build a mini-home on their property without some way of getting it back. But again, before establishing what these units should look like or how much to charge for this second sewer and water hookup, city officials must clearly define what problem these accessory units are meant to solve.

OC Today-Dispatch Stubbornly local, equally independent NEWS EDITOR STEWART DOBSON; EXECUTIVE EDITOR STEVE GREEN ASSOCIATE EDITOR BETHANY HOOPER STAFF WRITERS TARA FISCHER, BRIAN SHANE Contact News Room: editor@octodaydispatch.com SALES ACCOUNT MANAGERS MARY COOPER, TERRI FRENCH, RENEE KELLY CLASSIFIEDS/LEGALS PAMELA GREEN Contact Sales: sales@octodaydispatch.com PRODUCTION ART DIRECTOR COLE GIBSON; SENIOR PAGE DESIGNER SUSAN PARKS SENIOR AD DESIGNER KELLY BROWN ADMINISTRATION PUBLISHER/CONTROLLER CHRISTINE BROWN ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT GINI TUFTS Web: octodaydispatch.com ~ Facebook: www.facebook.com/octodaydispatch OC Today-Dispatch is published Fridays by FLAG Publications, Inc. 11934 Ocean Gateway, Suite 6, Ocean City, Md. 21842 410-723-6397 All content copyright 2026

PUBLIC EYE

FBI seeks applicants

The good news, if you can call it that, is that the FBI is now accepting applicants who engaged in bestiality as a youth. If you don’t know what bestiality is, you will have to look it up, because I am definitely not going into it here. Suffice to say, it’s a baaaaad thing that might cause perpetrators to feel sheepish. I understand, of course, that I can’t go much farther on this subject without taking a big plunge into bad taste—although it’s difficult to know By where that line is anymore, we seem to find ourselves Stewart since crossing over into "OMG" terDobson ritory routinely these days. Still, there are a couple of other things about the FBI’s new hiring policy that trouble me, the first of which is: why is this change even necessary? Has the pool of FBI applicants gotten so shallow that the bosses are now having to say, “We don’t care if you did take your 4-H project to the prom, join us and carry a gun. Who’s laughing now, right?” The second question is why in the world would someone applying for any job, much less one with the top law enforcement agency in the country, put something from their past like that on their resume? “So, Mr. Smith, we see ‘Ask for more details’ on your resume under ‘Things I deeply, deeply regret.’ Tell us a little more about that, would you?” No one not nuts is going to do that. But I also wonder why the FBI would even ask that question. “We’d like to know whether you’ve ever done anything, ummm... untoward, let’s

say, with a... non-human, carbon-based entity? Yes? You were a minor? Oh, no problem then.” The thing is, the agency requires applicants to come clean on all their criminal history, even though the FBI itself scours their backgrounds just in case an applicant is lying. But now, the leadership says it’s possible that some young people were forced to do certain things by child traffickers and therefore shouldn’t be disqualified from applying. Fine, but why is that one thing in particular being singled out? How about grand theft auto, burning down the house, selling contraband, or snatching wallets and purses? These transgressions don’t seem to be mentioned, while a point is made about, ahem, animal affairs. I will happily admit that I don’t know anything about this particular crime, except that I joined every other member of the Boy Scouts who ever lived in joking about the merit badge group classification “Animal Husbandry”— which, amazingly enough, became part of “Animal Sciences” after we wore it out around the campfire long ago. “Hey, Tommy’s looking into ‘Animal Husbandry!’ You know what that means, right?” Yuk, yuk, guffaw. Seriously, though, it isn’t that the FBI shouldn’t take job applications from people who were exploited as kids, just like the agency isn’t discriminating these days against persons who have histories of prostitution or stealing from their employers. It’s just casting a wider net to get more people in the door. If they’re not careful, though, the next thing you know they will drop their prohibition against hiring Democrats... and then we’ll be in trouble for sure.

SEPTEMBER 18, 2026

OC Today-Dispatch

Between the Lines By Steve Green

It looks like Ocean City will bring back its beach enforcement division next year and it’s a good thing. For far too long, there was little to no enforcement of existing beach rules in Ocean City. Far too often, the little enforcement that was done had to be carried out by the Ocean City Beach Patrol staff members, who are not qualified or experienced enough to monitor everything. The new division was especially needed after Ocean City created new rules on the size of canopies and prohibited unattended beach canopies from being set up before 10 a.m. as ways to reserve prime beachfront spots. Ocean City budgeted about $200,000 for the seasonal division, and it was reviewed this week. The pilot program was largely praised this week as a good first-year effort with the intention to bring the division back next year with a potential slight increase in spending. In the first season, some of the data points reviewed this week included 3,300 unoccupied beach canopies being tagged early in the morning; 11,500 beachgoers being informed of current beach rules; and four citations being issued for a dog on the beach and three repeat canopy offenders. Mayor and Council members said they were pleased with the first year’s efforts, while acknowledging the first year was always intended to be about education with citations and stricter enforcement to follow next year. *** Outbreak is too sensational but there’s no doubt there’s been an uptick in measles cases in Maryland. For instance, the state has reported there were three cases last year compared to 40 so far this year as of Sept. 10. Most of the volume is due to a mid-July outbreak. On Wednesday, the Maryland Department of Health issued a press release with Ocean City connections in what appears to be contact tracing at work. The release was distributed to inform residents, “about a potential measles exposure after an individual from another state with measles visited several locations in Maryland.” Though the risk remains low if fully vaccinated, the state felt the need to spread the word because measles is highly contagious and the virus can remain in the air for two hours after the infected person leaves the area. Specific spots included in the press release were Casablanca Oceanside Inn on 24th Street and Baltimore Avenue from 4 p.m. on Sept. 3 through noon on Sept. 6; Buona Vita Pizzeria, 21st Street and Baltimore Avenue, on Sept. 3 from 5-8 p.m.; and the Bonfire Restaurant on 70th Street on Sept. 5 from 4:30-8 p.m. More information on measles symptoms, transmission and prevention can be found on the Maryland Department of Health’s website. *** How high are gas prices? If it seems they are higher than ever today, it’s because they are, according to an analysis from AAA-Maryland. As of Sept. 17, the statewide average for a gallon of unleaded gasoline was $4.21, exceeding the previous annual average of $4.03 in 2022. Going back 10 years, here are the annual averages: 2016, $2.25; 2017, $2.55: 2018, $2.87; 2019, $2.72; 2020, $2.28; 2021, $3.07; 2022, $4.03; 2023, $3.56; 2024, $3.36; and 2025, $3.12. *** There have been 17 political posts on the Ocean Pines Yacht Club’s Facebook page since it was hacked earlier this week. Bob Cipretti of Touch of Italy, operator of the yacht club and other entities, said on Ocean 98 this week the hack was a result of the company’s PayPal account being linked to social media. The hack took over all of Touch of Italy’s accounts. The culprits have full control of the pages and have been posting political nonsense on the page ever since. The abundance of posts on the yacht club page and the numerous comments both for and against the content have been interesting to follow all week. Each post has been rooted in national politics. The early posts resulted in a lot of interesting comments from users but as the week has progressed people seem to have realized the posts are click bait material and fiction. Nonetheless, it’s been a huge headache for the yacht club and the Ocean Pines Association. On each post until the page is eliminated by Facbeook, the Ocean Pines Association is posting the same message, “NOTICE: THIS PAGE HAS BEEN HACKED. We currently do not have control of this page. Any posts, links, or messages appearing on or coming from the page are not being made by Ocean Pines Yacht Club employees. Members of the public are advised not to click on any unusual posts or links, respond to messages from the page, or provide any personal information. We are working diligently to regain control of the account and resolve the issue as quickly as possible. We apologize for any inconvenience, and appreciate your patience and understanding.”

PAGE 79

PAGE 80

Worcester school leadership praises county’s Judy Centers Program officials meeting with Worcester Board of Ed to highlight funding, events By Tara Fischer Staff Writer (Sept. 18, 2026) The Worcester County Board of Education shined a light on its three Judy Center Early Learning Hubs this week, recognizing the program that gives children up to five years of age a head start in their social and school careers. Judy Center leaders gave the board a peek into the early education program on Tuesday. Currently, there is a Judy Center at each of the area’s three Title I schools: Pocomoke

Elementary School, Buckingham Elementary School and Snow Hill Elementary School. The centers are funded through a grant just shy of $1 million from the Maryland State Department of Education, said Christina Welch, the Judy Centers’ multi-site coordinator. This week’s deep dive included a look into the resources, partnerships, events and activities the children and their families have access to by being part of the Judy Centers. The program runs all year long and does not take a break in the summer like the rest of the school community. “This year will mark 25 years since See OFFICIALS Page 81

Sashas Jewels On Your Mind? …Weeks?…Months?…Years?… Call or Text Today for an Appointment We Are Taking in Repairs Too Check Out Our Facebook Page

Store Hours: Friday 12-5, Saturday 2-5

or by appointment please text 302.296.6909 Please call ahead to make sure we are not at another location

Spence’s Bazaar Location 550 S. New St. Dover, DE 19904 Store Hours: Tuesday 10‐3 Friday & Saturday 10‐3

[ JUST

with purchase of any Color or Highlight Service

everyday through September 30

Fall Ready!\

SERVICES 25% COLOR FACIALS OFF SELECT HAIR & SKIN PRODUCTS

SHINE ALL SEASON $5 OFF YOUR NEXT APPOINTMENT

Cannot be combined with other offers or specials. Some restrictions apply. Expires 9/30/26

The Salon Professional Academy

• Cosmetology • Aesthetics • Master Barbering • Manicuring • Teacher Training • Advanced Education Next Classes Starts: September 8 - All Classes October 12 - Cosmetology Only

Call (302) 207-4021 for more information Financial Aid available to those who qualify

Call Today to Book Your Appointment!

All the same services as your favorite salon/spa at a fraction of the cost.

All services are preformed under the supervision of Delaware Licensed Instructors.

“Duchess for a Day” Only $43

Enjoy a haircut, facial, manicure, pedicure, conditioning treatment and blow dry. COUPON GOOD FOR ONLY 1 PERSON

Coupons cannot be combined with other offers or specials. Expires 9/30/26

Full Set of Nails 5 OFFAcrylic Add on $25 LED Session

COUPON GOOD FOR ONLY 1 PERSON

Coupons cannot be combined with other offers or specials. Expires 9/30/26

COUPON GOOD FOR ONLY 1 PERSON

32448 Royal Blvd., Suite A Dagsboro, DE 19939

302.732.6704

www.tspadelaware.com

Letter to the editor Harris should protect local drinking water Editor, Congressman Andy Harris should demand stronger federal and state action to protect First District residents from PFAS contamination. Doing nothing puts his constituents on the Eastern Shore are at risk. PFAS — often called “forever chemicals” because they persist in the environment — have been associated with increased risks of certain cancers, developmental problems in children and reduced immune response to some vaccines. Yet the Trump administration has weakened federal protections. The Environmental Protection Agency is retaining limits for two PFAS compounds, PFOA and PFOS, but has proposed delaying compliance until 2031 and rescinding drinking-water standards for several others. The administration has also canceled millions of dollars in federally funded PFAS research. This should be especially alarming on the Eastern Shore. Perdue AgriBusiness is seeking a state permit allowing it to discharge an average of up to 1 million gallons of treated wastewater per day into Peggy Branch, which eventually flows into the Wicomico River. Its current average discharge is approximately 205,000 gallons per day.

Meanwhile, more than 550 Salisbury-area residents who depend on private wells have joined lawsuits alleging that PFAS from Perdue’s property contaminated local groundwater. Perdue denies liability and maintains that firefighting foam used at its soybean-processing facility was the source of the contamination. Whatever the courts ultimately decide, residents should not have to wait for a verdict before their health and water receive adequate protection. Congressman Harris has often deferred PFAS concerns to the EPA and has opposed broader federal environmental legislation addressing PFAS cleanup. But federal agencies are not a substitute for congressional responsibility—especially when the EPA itself is delaying or withdrawing protections. At a minimum, Harris should call for an independent scientific investigation, comprehensive testing of nearby private wells and surface water, continued testing at no cost to residents, and meaningful public input before any increased discharge is approved. Protecting the health and drinking water of First District residents is part of Congressman Harris’s job. It is time for him to step up. Joan Roache Berlin

GOT MAIL?

Rich Color • Healthy Hair • Glowing Skin ONLY

SEPTEMBER 18, 2026

OC Today-Dispatch

Coupons cannot be combined with other offers or specials. Expires 9/30/26

FREE CURL with Any Color Service

COUPON GOOD FOR ONLY 1 PERSON Coupons cannot be combined with other offers or specials. Expires 9/30/26

Mail your letter to editor@octodaydispatch.com All letters are subject to editing for clarity and potentially libelous material

SEPTEMBER 18, 2026

OC Today-Dispatch

PAGE 81

Officials share program’s successes, mission Continued from Page 80 WCPS received its first Judy Center grant for Snow Hill Elementary School,” said Jennifer Sills, interim chief academic officer. “Over those 25 years, the Judy Center program has transformed significantly, growing into three comprehensive early learning hubs serving children and families across the Buckingham, Pocomoke and Snow Hill communities.” Sills added that the Judy Centers “play a very important role in shaping our youngest learners” and helping them enter school ready to thrive. Advocates of the program said family support is vital to the Judy Centers’ mission. Help is available to get parents and guardians in the best possible position, including case management, goal setting, referrals, meals and food support, health services, family education, home visiting when available, transition assistance, and connections to adult education and career services. For the kids, Judy Center educators follow the early learning standards set forth by the state

department of education through collaborates with organizations and their Little Learners play groups. agencies including Worcester County Early literacy and math skills are pri- Public Schools, Worcester GOLD, the oritized, as well as fine motor devel- Snow Hill Rotary Club, Bundles of opment. Joy, Berlin Activities Depot, and reThe Judy Centers also host family gional daycares, among others. engagement events. The state requires Welch said the centers have also each site to host 12 of these per year. expanded their services this year Some are in conthrough additional junction with the local grants. The ‘This year will mark 25 years Judy Center team larger school community in the form since WCPS received its first has secured roughly of a literacy or math Judy Center grant for Snow Hill $50,000 in local night. grant funding for Elementary School.’ These occasions programs and reInterim Chief give the littlest sources for families, learners and their she said. Academic Officer, families the opporDuring the presJennifer Sills tunity to engage entation, school syswith their future tem leaders also teachers and administration team. highlighted the Judy Centers’ connection Another component of the pro- to the county’s broader literacy efforts. gram is early identification and out“As part of our literacy initiative, reach, which includes working with one of the things that we’ve spent a families who have a child with a dis- lot of time this first year doing is ability or a suspected disability. making connections that are intenPartnerships are also an essential tional with all of the support that we aspect of the centers. The program have in our school system,” Superin-

Your Online Community: www.octodaydispatch.com

tendent Annette Wallace said. “The Judy Center is one of those supports.” Wallace said the Judy Center staff are “doing magical things with our earliest learners” and called the program a significant part of the school system’s literacy efforts. The centers are also looking ahead to upcoming community events. One planned event is a Trunk or Treat on Oct. 22, which will carry the theme “There is a story in every trunk.” Welch said the idea came from Wallace, who encouraged the centers to incorporate storytelling into the event. Community partners will be encouraged to decorate their trunks around a story, whether it is geared toward elementary, middle or high school students. Welch said the work of the Judy Center staff is reflected in feedback from the families they serve. An MSDE survey administered twice a year asks parents about school readiness and child development. The Worcester County team received a 98% parent satisfaction rate, Welch said.

OC Today-Dispatch

PAGE 82

Worcester fighting “flush tax” fee By Brian Shane Staff Writer (Sept. 18, 2026) Last year’s deep freeze has come back to haunt Ocean Pines in the form of a six-figure state wastewater bill. The county owes $275,940 in Bay Restoration Fees after going two quarters without collecting the state’s $15 quarterly “flush tax” from Ocean Pines wastewater customers. Worcester County officials have postponed a decision about whether to pay that bill from the district’s reserves – or pass the cost directly on to customers. Commissioners voted 4–3 Tuesday to wait until Oct. 6 for a recommendation from the Ocean Pines Water and Sewer Advisory Council on how to cover the bill. The problem dates to early 2025, when months of bitter cold weather chilled wastewater inside the treatment tanks to an average of about 50 degrees. The plant is designed to operate at no less than 54 degrees. At those temperatures, the bacteria fell dormant and could not remove enough nitrogen. As a result, nitrogen levels rose above the state’s cutoff, costing Ocean Pines its exemption from the fee. Since then, county officials have pursued an appeal on multiple fronts with the Maryland Department of the Environment, according to County Ad-

ministrator Weston Young. MDE denied the county’s exemption request in February, saying the nitrogen standard remained achievable in cold weather and suggesting the plant’s aging treatment system may need improvements. County officials sent a detailed rebuttal in March and say the agency has not responded to that appeal. Officials also sought an answer through state Sen. Mary Beth Carozza’s office and the county’s lobbyist, Young added. “We don’t control the weather. We would hope they understand that,” Young said. “We assume the answer is no, but we’ve not officially gotten anything.” While the Ocean Pines sewerage district has enough money in reserves to cover the bill, nearly $283,000 is also earmarked for a new water-metering system, Finance Officer Ondrea Starzhevskiy told commissioners. She also cautioned that waiting until Oct. 6 could be too late to add the quarterly fee to the next round of bills, potentially forcing customers to make larger payments later. For now, the county’s options include paying the full bill from the district’s $1.15 million reserve account, collecting additional quarterly payments from customers, or using some combination of the two.

EXPERIENCE YOU CAN TRUST We have generations of experience and are well known for our exceptional dental care.

We want to help you keep that bright and beautiful smile every season!

ATLANTIC DENTAL

COSMETIC & FAMILY DENTISTRY PREVENTIVE CARE • INVISALIGN PERIODONTAL TREATMENT • FULL MOUTH RESTORATIONS • IMPLANT RESTORATIONS SMILE ENHANCEMENTS

EMERGENCY SERVICES FOR OUR CURRENT PATIENTS

Commissioner Chip Bertino (District 5, Ocean Pines) argued the commissioners should wait for a recommendation from the five-member, citizen-led Ocean Pines advisory council, whose members were divided over whether to bill customers or pull from reserves. “We wouldn’t need an advisory committee,” Bertino said, “if we just told them what they should or shouldn’t do.” Commissioner Joe Mitrecic (District 7, Ocean City) pushed back against the suggestion that $1.15 million was ample protection for the wastewater system. “In wastewater, that’s nothing,” he said. “Everything we do in wastewater costs a million dollars.” Paying both the state fee and the metering expense from reserves would consume nearly half the account, Mitrecic said. That would leave less money available if equipment fails or the treatment plant needs repairs that could cost millions. Worcester County has spent years addressing multimillion-dollar debts in its water and wastewater service areas after rates failed to keep pace with operating expenses. “Obviously, we haven’t learned anything about kicking the can down the road when it comes to wastewater,” Mitrecic said.

SEPTEMBER 18, 2026

OBITUARIES ADAM MASON POLLIN Ocean Pines Adam Mason Pollin, of Ocean Pines, Maryland, was born on June 15, 1971, in Washington, D.C., and passed away suddenly and unexpectedly on August 28, 2026. Adam is survived by his parents, Alan and Alice Sydney. He is also survived by his brothers and sisters, Adam Pollin Shane Pollin (Amy), Jill Madone (Mike), Courtney Wade (Justin), Jake Minkoff (Alissa), and Sam Minkoff (Cassie); his nieces, Ella Pollin and Nora Minkoff; and his nephews, Logan Madone, Hunter Wade, and Thomas Wade. Adam is also survived by his aunt and uncles, Judy and Jonathan Duffie, Richard Pollin, and Robert Loeb; his great-uncle and great-aunt, Morty and Cynthia Zetlin; and his cousins, Jacob Pollin, Matthew Pollin, Jeremy Duffie, Jon Duffie, Justin Duffie, Alex Loeb, Max Loeb, and Chris Loeb, as well as extended family and many dear friends. Adam will also be deeply missed by his beloved pets, Dickey and Augie. Adam graduated from Bradley University and went on to a career in property management. His love of Continued on Page 84

OC Today-Dispatch

SEPTEMBER 18, 2026

SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH

100TH BIRTHDAY FUNDRAISER Animal lover Mary Yenny celebrated her 100th birthday with a fundraiser for the Worcester County Humane Society. She raised $425 and gave the money to the shelter on Friday, Sept. 11. Yenny, right, was joined by 12-week-old kitten Lisa and Shannon Palmateer, the shelter manager and a vet tech.

Peaceful Walks, Warm Colors Autumn in the Garden

Shrinrin-Yoku: The Art of Japanese Forest Bathing Friday, September 18 • 8:00-10:00am Member $30, Non-Member $50, Registers at www.delawaregardens.org

Monarch Migration Class Saturday, September 19 • 10:00-11:30am Members $5, Non-Members $20, Youth $5 Tickets Required • Register at delawaregardens.org

Guided Welcome Walks Every Friday & Saturday at 10am Free with Garden Admission Open Thursdays 9:00 a.m. - sunset. Fridays - Mondays 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Adults $15 - Children 16 & Under - Free

Check Our Website for Other Programs & Workshops

delawaregardens.org 30220 Piney Neck Road | Dagsboro, DE 19939

PAGE 83

PAGE 84

OC Today-Dispatch

SEPTEMBER 18, 2026

OBITUARIES Continued from Page 82 music, particularly the Grateful Dead and Widespread Panic, and his passion for travel helped foster lifelong friendships and countless memories. Adam loved making Ocean Pines his home and could often be found taking a drive through the community or along Coastal Highway with his beloved dog, Dickey, by his side. He was also a connoisseur of Maryland crab cakes. Adam’s funeral was held on Wednesday, September 2nd at B’nai Israel Congregation in Rockville, Maryland, followed by interment at King David Memorial Park in Falls Church, Virginia. Shiva was observed by the family following the funeral. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Adam’s memory to the Worcester County Humane Society. KENNETH RICHARD BLISS Berlin Kenneth Richard “Kenny” Bliss, 64, died unexpectedly on September 3, 2026, following a period of declining health. During the last two years of his life, Ken faced increasingly serious health problems and handled them with grace. Ken was born on April 13, 1962, the son of Elizabeth (Loveland) Bliss and the late Frank R. Bliss Jr. The youngest of five children, he grew up in Maryland and Hawaii before eventually returning to Maryland, where

he spent most of his adult life. Ken attended Thornton Friends High School in Silver Spring, Maryland before moving to Ocean City, Maryland, where he began a long career in the restaurant industry. Starting as a line cook, he worked his way through the kitchen ranks, becoming a prep chef, sous chef, head chef, and eventually an executive chef. Although he proved himself capable of running a kitchen, Ken discovered that he preferred cooking to management and was happiest as a sous chef, where he could concentrate on the food Kenneth Bliss and the creative side of his profession. Over the years, he worked in a number of restaurants and also gained experience as a bartender. His final position was as a chef at Riderwood Retirement Community. For Ken, however, cooking was much more than a profession. It was one of his great pleasures in life. He once won a national Chili contest with his own recipe. He loved experimenting with different foods, spices, ingredients, and cooking techniques. He approached food as an art form and was always interested in discovering a better way to prepare a dish. He loved to cook, and he certainly loved to eat.

Ken had many interests beyond the kitchen. He had a great love of live music and frequently bought extra tickets so that friends or family members could join him at concerts. Ken’s greatest creative passion, however, was his artwork. He considered himself a pulp artist, creating art from colored paper pulp. Through his side business, Create Early Bliss, Ken shared his creativity with others by teaching them how to make paperpulp art. His work and talents became known and appreciated within the paper-pulp art community. Those who knew Ken will remember him as honest, generous, creative, and kindhearted. His artistic nature often found its way into the gifts he gave others. At Christmas and on birthdays, he enjoyed creating thoughtful, handmade gifts rather than simply buying something from a store. He cared deeply about his family and had a special affection for his many nieces and nephews.

Ken was the father of three children, Kilion, April, and Clarke Bliss. Although his path through life was not always a conventional one, family remained important to him, and he was loved by a large extended family and many friends. Ken was predeceased by his father, Frank R. Bliss Jr. He is survived by his mother, Betsy Bliss; his three children, Kilion, April, and Clarke Bliss; his brother, Jeffrey Bliss; his sisters, Karen Stoddard, Diane Atwood, and Susan Landacre; nine nieces and nephews; eleven grandnieces and grandnephews; and many other relatives and friends whose lives were touched by his generosity, humor, creativity, and friendship. He was well-liked, deeply loved, and unmistakably himself. His family and friends will miss him greatly. There will be a memorial in the coming weeks. Contact jdbliss333@gmail.com for more information.

OBITUARY NOTICES Obituary Notices cost $50 per week for Print and Online Publications. E-mail: editor@octodaydispatch.com Mail: 11934 Ocean Gateway, Suite 6, Ocean City, Md. 21842 Fax: 410-723-6511

Sports & Recreation

OC Today-Dispatch Sept. 18, 2026

Page 85

www.octodaydispatch.com

SEAHAWKS IN ACTION Stephen Decatur’s varsity field hockey lost a heart breaker last week to Parkside at home, losing in overtime, 3-2. Decatur bounced back, however, on Monday, winning over Kent County, 41, on the road before losing to Queen Anne’s on Wednesday, 2-0. Above left, junior Maggie Tucker grabs control before looking for a teammate against Parkside. Above right, senior goalie Emily Skipper was key in goal for Decatur against Parkside last week. At left, senior Morgan Michalski is pictured working the ball down the field for the Seahawks against the Rams. PHOTOS COURTESY OF J.P. CATHELL PHOTOGRAPHY

PHOTOS COURTESY OF J.P. CATHELL PHOTOGRAPHY

GIRLS SOCCER STARTS FAST Stephen Decatur’s varsity girls soccer team is off to a solid start on the young season, winning three over Wi-Hi, Parkside and North Caroline by a combined score of 22-0 and tying 1-1 with Queen Anne’s. Pictured during the 6-0 win over Parkside are, top left, senior Addison McIntosh; top right, junior Samantha Smith; above left, McIntosh; above middle, senior Lylla Bergeman; and above right, freshman Mackenzie Maddy and sophomore Lamis Omar.

OC Today-Dispatch

PAGE 86

SEPTEMBER 18, 2026

SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH

ANNUAL MEMORIAL SPOT TOURNEY HELD The Ocean City Fishing Center held its 11th Annual Memorial Spot Tournament last Saturday. The tournament had a record-breaking year with 162 participants, many pictured above. Ro Sham Bo Sportfishing and Zimmerman Powerwashing and Painting sponsored the event, and Micky Fins and Sunset Grille donated gift cards for prizes.

FIRST FLOUNDER BIRTHDAY CATCH On the occasion of her 74th birthday, Ocean City resident Fran Kelly hooked her first ever flounder just south of the Route 90 bridge. She and her husband, Michael, were using rainbow flashers with fish bites as bait. The fish, measuring 14 inches, was released. SUBMITTED PHOTO/ OC TODAY-DISPATCH

PHOTO COURTESY OF FISH IN OC.COM

FLOUNDER POUNDER HELD Bahia Marina held its annual Flounder Pounder on Sept. 13. Total price money was $4,820 with Mark Lowman winning first place with a 5 pounder and Joey Collins winning second and third places for his catches of 4 pounds and 3 pounds, 13 ounces. Participants are pictured with their tourney catches.

— HANDMADE PIZZA, SLUSHIES, DRINKS & MORE!!! —

SEPTEMBER 18, 2026

OC Today-Dispatch

PAGE 87

PAGE 88

OC Today-Dispatch

SEPTEMBER 18, 2026