Call on City Council to take action as online medical services depend on being connected. — PAGE 20
Resident tells City Council their time has come and asks for support of state law change so these vehicles can travel in the bus lane. — PAGE 18
Capacity, cost issues lead commissioners to seek assistance from City Council. — PAGE 14
it off
With little time to prepare, Rock and Ride promoter holds solid rally. — PAGE 12
By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor
(Sept. 19, 2025) City staff will begin seeking bids for a new entrance sign at the head of North Division Street.
On Sept. 9, the Ocean City Council voted to approve the sign’s design and to move forward with its installation following a bid award. Tourism and Business Development Director Tom Perlozzo said the signage was designed in house to match the city’s new “Somewhere to Smile About” brand.
“Before we solicited bids we wanted to make sure the design is approved …,” he told the council. “It’s on brand, a continuation of a brand evolution here in Ocean City.”
Perlozzo said the welcome sign would be placed on North Division Street, at its intersection with Baltimore Avenue. He said the sign would replace other small signs currently in the landscaped area.
The tourism director added that the sign would be illuminated with landscape lighting. With the council’s support, he said city staff would begin soliciting bids for its construction and installation.
“It will be an open bid to any sign company in the area,” he said. “That’s why we did the design in house.”
Following a brief discussion, the council voted 7-0 to approve the design. Perlozzo said the new sign would be funded with deferred revenues collected from the C3 Presents music festivals.
“We’ll go through the bid process with procurement and go from there,” he said.
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Rep. Andy Harris calls legal brief a “victory” for Shore
By Brian Shane Staff Writer
(Sept. 19, 2025) A top-level Interior Department official is backing up the federal government’s aboutface on offshore wind energy by saying its prior approval of a Maryland offshore wind project downplayed potential impacts on ocean rescues, commercial fishing, and environmental concerns – and that the approval process may need to be scrapped and redone.
Adam Suess, an acting Interior Department assistant secretary who oversees the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM), said that even after BOEM had approved construction and operations plans for the offshore wind farm by developer US Wind, his agency has a duty to keep checking whether the project really meets the law.
“As part of its ongoing review of the project, the department has initially determined that these impacts may not be sufficiently mitigated and, therefore, the project, as approved, is not preventing interference with other reasonable uses” of the outer continental shelf, the filing states.
Agency officials under President Joe Biden’s administration “failed to account for all the impacts that the Maryland Offshore Wind Project may cause,” Suess wrote in a Sept. 12 filing, one attached to the same federal lawsuit that the Town of Ocean City is fighting against the Interior Department over offshore wind.
While Biden’s Interior Department cleared the project last year, attorneys for the Trump administration now argue that those approvals were flawed. They said BOEM’s approval “was not properly informed by a complete understanding of the
impacts from the project,” and that some impacts were “understated or obfuscated.”
At issue is a specific rule in the Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act, one that directs the Secretary of the Interior to make sure all offshore leases – which, in this case, the government granted to US Wind in 2014 – don’t ever interfere with “reasonable uses” of the high seas. The rule also gives the secretary discretion to define what counts as a reasonable use.
One such use is search and rescue operations for the U.S. Coast Guard. The brief argues that Coast Guard aircraft searching the open ocean would be forced to dodge US Wind’s proposed field of 114 turbines, which are projected to stand more than 900 feet tall. The turbines, which begin at 10.7 miles from the coast and stretch out to the horizon, also allegedly would interfere with standard grid-based search patterns.
The brief also argues that US Wind’s offshore lease area could attract sightseers or recreational fishermen, leading boats farther offshore than usual and increasing demand for rescues near the turbines and raising the risk of abandoned missions and fatalities.
Under President Biden, BOEM ruled that the project wouldn’t interfere with fishing. Suess’s brief says that’s not true because the prior approval failed to account for how commercial fisheries could be harmed, including how fishermen could lose money from broken or damaged gear.
with laws about environmental review, historic sites, and endangered species, according to the filing.
US Wind’s project won’t start for several years, with construction scheduled to begin in 2028 and power generation predicted for 2029. The brief also notes how the project is missing key local approval from Sussex County, Delaware.
Terry McGean, city manager for Ocean City, welcomed the filing. He called the government’s motion “a great step forward” in opposing the US Wind project.
“We have stated all along that the approval of this project was fasttracked without adequate public input and that approvals ignored significant risks to our economy, fishing industry, marine mammals and the horseshoe crab,” McGean said via email Monday. “We are glad that our concerns are finally being taken seriously.”
Calling it a “victory” in a statement Monday, Congressman Andy Harris (R-1st) said his constituents have been “consistently ignored by federal bureaucrats pushing this offshore project without proper local input or approval.”
“Offshore wind poses serious risks to our coastal economy, marine environment, national security, and the livelihoods of watermen. I thank President Trump for standing up for my constituents and will continue working with him and his administration to end this project once and for all,” he said.
The move aligns with President Trump’s continued opposition to offshore wind. Trump issued an executive order on Jan. 20 pausing leases on new wind farms and another July 7 to freeze wind subsidies.
The court will decide whether to vacate approval; Suess doesn’t make a formal request for cancellation but instead signals openness to vacate and offers a plan forward: BOEM would reconsider US Wind’s plans, possibly imposing new conditions or rejecting it outright. It also would require another compliance check
Last month, the Transportation Department rescinded millions in funding for wind projects, including $47 earmarked to reopen a Baltimore steelworks as a turbine manufacturing hub.
By Stewart Dobson Editor
(Sept. 19, 2025) How many motorcycles does it take to make a BikeFest? Somewhere between 100,000 to 200,000 would be the answer in Ocean City’s case, which is where last week’s Rock and Ride OC BikeFest landed solidly.
Although there was some question whether Kickin’ Events LLC could pull off a successful bike rally, it surely did, despite stepping in as a last-minute replacement for last year’s promoter, OC Jams, which defaulted on its contract with the Town of Ocean City. According to statistics compiled by the Ocean City Police Department, the 2025 Rock and Ride bike rally posted participation numbers similar
to last year’s event, when well over a half-million people came to town for the four-day event.
That’s just a rough guess, as the actual registration numbers have not yet been released and Ocean City has no truly accurate way to determine
crowd size. Still, everyone in town last week would agree that motorcycles were everywhere from Thursday through Sunday, including at the fully packed parking lot next to the show’s convention center setup and down at the Ocean City inlet parking lot.
As for the crowd’s behavior, data presented at this week’s Police Commission meeting showed that arrests, citations and calls for service were in line with the numbers for previous years — a relative handful considering how many motorcycle enthusiasts were out and about.
Citizen calls to police were down from last year — 301 in 2024 to 214 this year, while police-initiated responses were up this year over last, 658 to 502.
Aggressive enforcement by the multiple police agencies riding herd on the rally this year led to a significant rise in the number of traffic stops police conducted: — 305 this year as compared to 179 last year.
The total number of arrests, however, was in line with the averages for the last four years, as police reported 31 in all, with drugs, 5, weapons, 6, and DUIs 10, and the balance for other reasons.
Meanwhile, the police department’s Automatic Crash Reporting System listed 14 accidents last week
as compared to 19 the year before. Organizing and marketing an event of this scope in the past has involved almost year-round planning. Almost immediately after the conclusion of one event, preparations begin for the next year’s edition.
It wasn’t until last May, however, that Kickin Events, which was formed by residents Matt Odachowski of Royal Plus Disaster Cleanup Company and his son Tyler, received the City Council’s permission to pick up the dropped ball and run with it.
From a police standpoint, Ocean City Police Deputy Communications Manager Ashley Miller said Tuesday the department, “with assistance from the Worcester County Sheriff's Office, Maryland State Police, and Howard County Police Department, maintained a strong, visible presence during the 2025 OC Rock and Ride Bike Week.”
Miller added, “The Special Event Zone was in effect in the Town of Ocean City from September 10 through September 14, temporarily reducing speed limits and increasing penalties for certain violations. This initiative, along with the coordinated efforts of local and state law enforcement, helped ensure the safety of residents and visitors throughout the event.”
By Brian Shane Staff Writer
(Sept. 19, 2025) To lighten the load on strained wastewater facilities in the West Ocean City area, Worcester County’s elected officials will formally ask the Ocean City Council to sell them more space at the resort’s midtown treatment plant to process sewage flow.
The County Commissioners agreed in a 5-0 vote Tuesday to send Commission President Ted Elder and Vice President Eric Fiori to a meeting of the council to make their formal pitch. Commissioners Caryn Abbott and Jim Bunting were absent for the meeting.
They’ll ask for 170,000 gallons of daily sewage capacity at Ocean City’s midtown wastewater treatment plant to handle the flow from two wastewater service areas, The Landings and Assateague Point, according to Public Works Director Dallas Baker. Cost estimates to the county range from $1.08 to $1.3 million.
If Ocean City accepts the updated agreement, it would increase the county’s total allocation to 1.17 million gallons per day and would require an amendment to their existing agreement, according to Baker, which states that only treated effluent from the Mystic Harbor plant may be discharged into the Ocean City system.
The upside to offloading county
sewer capacity could mean less of a strain on the existing sewerage plants in the short term, and lower costs for upkeep and replacement in the long run, county officials have said.
Constructed for homes along Route 611 in the West Ocean City corridor, The Landings wastewater treatment plant “has not been operational for some time” Baker told the commissioners at their meeting Tuesday.
County officials took it out of service nearly 20 years ago because it didn’t have enough of a customer base to offset its high operating cost. Its flow was eventually routed to the Mystic Harbor wastewater treatment plant, which also lies along the Route 611 corridor.
With increased residential development in The Landings at Bayside subdivision, Baker said his department had looked more closely at reactivating the facility. But testing showed that’s not a viable path forward because, while the plant can treat 100,000 gallons a day, its injection well can only get rid of 36,000 gallons.
One solution to make The Landings facility operational again – one of 11 total wastewater plants servicing Worcester County, each meant to operate as its own self-contained district –would be to build an extensive pipeline system to send flow to a nearby golf course for spray irrigation.
Add to that the price of acquiring land and building storage lagoons, and the upgrades would cost the county about $10 million, Baker said.
The cost differences could be significant, county officials said. To build additional pipeline for sending sewage directly to Ocean City would cost about $1 million, while fixes to the under-performing county facilities could end up in the $30 million range, officials noted.
At the Assateague Point treatment plant, Baker said state environment officials had been pushing an upgrade from a simple treatment lagoon –where sewage is aerated, chlorinated, and sprayed onto a field – to an enhanced nutrient removal system, or ENR, that would filter out nitrogen and phosphorus.
“We were successful in pushing back on that, so (the Maryland Department of the Environment) removed the ENR requirement,” Baker told the commissioners, “but we think it’s going to get harder and harder moving forward to fight back on that, as more of the state moves to enhanced nutrient removal.”
Such an upgrade doesn’t come cheaply.
Baker noted how a sewage treatment facility in Oxford, Maryland, had been converted in 2023 from a lagoon to ENR at a cost of $20 million.
An ENR plant is also a more complex operation that would require hiring more certified wastewater operators, Baker said in an internal memo.
Behind the scenes, it’s been a deal county and city leaders have been hashing out for weeks.
Ocean City’s representative on the county board, Commissioner Joe Mitrecic, said at the board’s previous meeting on Sept. 5 how he’d been in talks with Ocean City officials, discussing multiple scenarios for pumping sewer flow from West Ocean City to the resort’s midtown treatment plant.
The 65th Street facility, with a maximum capacity of processing about 15 million gallons per day of wastewater, has ample room to spare for the county’s 170,000-gallon request, Mitrecic said.
Worcester County already has an agreement with Ocean City that can send, if needed, about a million gallons of sewage daily to the 65th Street facility under Isle of Wight Bay using an existing sewer main.
Separately, Ocean City officials say they’re planning for a three-year, $41.6 million upgrade to its wastewater treatment plan. That project aims to rebuild the front end of the facility, which first came online in 1969, Public Works Director Hal Adkins told the Ocean City Council at a Sept. 2 meeting.
Revisions to project pass commissioners after initial 5-2 rejection last March
By Brian Shane Staff Writer
(Sept. 19, 2025) Worcester County officials approved a zoning change this week that gives developer Todd Ferrante the go-ahead to build apartments for seasonal workers on the same property as his Park Place retail complex in West Ocean City.
The county commissioners on Tuesday unanimously approved a zoning amendment that allows detached multi-family dwellings as an accessory use to a commercial development. It means new residential units can now be built as detached accessory dwelling units on the same commercially zoned lot.
Before this, the zoning code dictated that new residential units had to be directly attached to or adjoining a commercial structure – which is why Ferrante, with plans to develop seasonal workforce housing along his Route 50 property, launched his bid to have the law changed nearly two years ago.
“I’m very happy that the commis-
sioners felt it was the right thing for the community,” Ferrante said Wednesday. “I was very appreciative that the commissioners agreed with what we had presented to them and look forward to offering the community much-needed year-round rentals.”
Tentative plans call for a threestory, 12-unit apartment building with two- and three-bedroom units behind Ferrante’s Park Place Plaza shopping center on Route 50.
The property can accommodate the housing project because it extends hundreds of feet back into a densely wooded area, while his retail storefronts are close to the highway.
“It makes sense to do residential where it abuts residential, which is what we did. The unit is so far back away from commercial activity that it’s more in the residential community,” Ferrante said.
Ferrante said he hopes to start construction next spring after getting clearance from the county’s Planning and Zoning Commission.
The zoning amendment comes with specific stipulations. Parcels must already be 65% developed, but then also must have sufficient open
See HOUSING Page 16
from Page 15
space, aisle width, and parking. Subject properties must be on public water with the ability to connect new public water and sewer hookups, known as equivalent dwelling units, or EDUs.
While the commissioners denied a similar version of the proposed amendment by a 4-3 vote in March 2024, Tuesday’s yes vote was 5-0, with Commissioners Caryn Abbott and Jim Bunting absent.
One final tweak to the amendment got the commissioners to yes: it only applies to lots zoned C-2 General Commercial that are directly adjacent to properties zoned in the county’s R3 or R-4 districts, which is a designation for multifamily housing.
Before, the change would have applied to more than 1,000 properties in the C-2 zoning. Now, the narrowly tailored zoning policy applies to just 63 properties in Worcester County, nearly all of which are clumped together in the West Ocean City corridor.
Commissioner Eric Fiori (District 3, West Ocean City) said he cast a yes vote after Ferrante narrowed the scope of the amendment to apply to fewer properties.
“I was not in favor of the original text amendment coming through for that exact reason,” he said. “I think the idea of transitioning from commercial into residential, I think this is a great fit for our community, especially pushing for our lack of singlefamily dwellings in the county. I think it’s a great use of the land and I think it’s very well written the way it is.
“We’re getting additional residential housing. We gotta be excited, right?”
Worcester County’s comprehensive plan in a 2009 update did provide for accessory residential units, but they had to be attached to the commercial building, like a mixeduse building where apartments or condos sit above ground-floor retail, according to Hugh Cropper, the attorney representing Ferrante,
"Unfortunately, we haven’t really seen any of those projects. There’s a couple around, where maybe somebody has a single apartment upstairs. But the town centers of having commercial uses where people live upstairs, that really never happened. Hopefully this will allow that to happen,” Cropper said Tuesday.
By Steve Green Executive Editor
(Sept. 19, 2025) Should golf carts be allowed on Coastal Highway?
If legally registered, licensed and insured, then sure, says north Ocean City resident Andrew Sanderson of Caine Woods, who supports a change at the state level to offer an alternative mode of transportation in the resort.
Mayor and City Council members heard from Sanderson during the public comment portion of Monday night’s meeting. Sanderson’s suggestion will be vetted at the committee level with the city’s Police Commission as well as the Bicycle & Pedestrian Advisory Committee (BPAC) expected to make a recommendation to the council in the near future.
Sanderson told the council Monday he understands the issue of licensed golf carts on Coastal Highway requires a state legislative change. Currently, if titled and tagged through the MVA, golf carts can be used on city streets, but they are not permitted on state roads, like Coastal Highway. Crisfield is the only municipality in Maryland granted an exception by the state.
A retired law enforcement officer from northern Virginia who moved to Ocean City full time last year, Sanderson said he spoke with Delegate Wayne Hartman and Senator Mary Beth
Carozza about his proposal. Hartman and Carozza asked Sanderson to get an opinion from the mayor and council before they would evaluate further as a legislative matter.
“What I am asking is … is there a way to amend state law to include, in a dedicated lane, golf carts,” Sanderson said. “You already have two-wheeled vehicles, EV bicycles, bicycles, sport bikes, 49 cc scooters, the buses obviously … what we are looking for is the council to get an opinion for us to get to the delegate and senator so they can see if they want to move this around.”
Sanderson believes the city will see an influx in low-speed vehicles in the coming years as a means of transit. He told the council he knows eight golf carts in Caine Woods and at least four golf carts in neighboring Montego Bay.
In 2024, Maryland law was tweaked to allow municipalities and/or counties to designate certain streets as legal for fully-equipped low-speed vehicles –which must include seat belts — on 30 mph or less roads. State law defines a low-speed vehicle as one that goes over 20 mph but not over 25 mph.
Low-speed vehicles are not permitted on state roads. Sanderson was seeking an opinion from the council on the matter, as he believes golf carts will become more popular in the coming years.
“… I’m talking about golf carts but it’s a quality of life issue and I have earned mine,” he said. “I want to be able to use my golf cart in my town. I want to be able to go (from my home) down to the inlet, to take my family shopping and play games on the Boardwalk … and go to all the restaurants in between without using my car all the time. The car costs a lot more.”
“I can guarantee you are going to see more carts coming based on the price, how easy they are to store and how easy they are to park. If it’s not hitting your wallet with more electric, it’s going to happen. You are already seeing them with EV bikes and scooters. It’s just the next mode up of moving people.”
City Manager Terry McGean confirmed Coastal Highway is a state road and the legislature would need to approve the change.
“Coastal Highway is a state highway and regulation of the low-speed vehicles would require a change in state law to allow them on Coastal Highway. It’s not something the council could do unilaterally,” said McGean.
Councilman John Gehrig said he was open to a discussion on the topic with colleagues suggesting a starting point being at the city’s committee level with the police commission and the BPAC. The council voted unanimously to remand the matter.
By Brian Shane Staff Writer
(Sept. 19, 2025) Worcester County officials failed to enact emergency legislation this week that would have increased local oversight for solar panel farms, including setting new decommissioning procedures, because two lawmakers were absent for the vote.
Instead of taking effect after the usual 45 days, an “emergency” bill goes into law immediately when passed. It also has a higher standard than a simple majority, instead requiring six of seven county commissioners to vote yes.
But because representatives Caryn Abbott (District 1, Southern) and Jim Bunting (District 6, Bishopville) didn’t attend Tuesday’s meeting of the Worcester County Commissioners, the body didn’t meet the emergency standard.
That led Commissioner Chip Bertino to work out a quick compromise. He asked his fellow commissioners to table their emergency vote for the next commissioners meeting, which is scheduled for Oct. 7.
A yes vote on Oct. 7 puts the emergency bill into effect right away. Had the board approved the legislation on Tuesday with five votes, it would have taken effect Oct. 31.
Why the hurry? The commissioners have been eager to update the county’s laws on solar panel farms –specifically, they want developers on the hook for decommissioning costs should a facility suddenly go dark.
Decommissioning in this case means the removal of solar equipment from its acreage and restoration of the site to agricultural use, including cleanup of hazardous materials.
As more and more developers pitch solar panel farms on agricultural land in Worcester County, commissioners expressed concerns that property owners, like generational family farmers, would be stuck with cleanup costs, or might see their land forced into a tax sale, should developers walk out on a land lease.
Officials asked staffers to write new regulations that would have forced developers to pony up for cleanup costs at the start of the permitting process, not the end, which had been the case.
The county’s emergency bill says developers must post a bond for 125% of the anticipated cost of decommissioning, which mirrors a state regulation. Bonds are re-evaluated every five years.
The decision Tuesday to postpone the emergency bill vote won’t impact the two major solar farm projects now in the pipeline for Worcester County, according to Jennifer
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Some community residents say connection is so poor, medical equipment suffers
By Steve Green Executive Editor
By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor
(Sept. 19, 2025) Ocean City officials have agreed to evaluate cell phone connectivity concerns in the Montego Bay residential community while also examining other areas where concerns have been heard.
On Monday night, the second time was a charm for Councilman Tony DeLuca, who last week asked the council to place on an upcoming meeting’s agenda the topic of connectivity in Montego Bay. The council asked DeLuca to have members of the Montego Bay Civic Association bring the request as a confirmation of the problem.
During citizens comment on Monday night, two residents in Montego Bay voiced their concerns.
“We have connectivity issues where I live. A lot of people say we do not but it’s like there’s a line drawn across the section of where I live that calls drop …,” Mary Jo Breslin said.
Breslin told the council about a
neighbor who was having a heart issue and being unable to do an online EKG on that person because her phone could not get a reliable signal. She said she took the friend to the fire house instead.
“We are getting to the point this connectivity issue is a safety issue in the section where I live. There’s more new equipment that’s come out through health care. People have cardiac monitors that are being read by people in Baltimore and they know when someone is having an episode. They call to check on the people,” she said.
“Could we please take a look at this to see what we can do next? I know cell towers is a bad word, but we are in a gap where we need some sort of technology, be it a cell tower or an antenna. If you want to put it on my property, I am more than willing to have it on my property. I am asking for help from the council to start looking at this.”
Beachcomber Lane resident Sandy Kovac added, “People in Montego Bay have connectivity issues, especially those of us who live on the water. It’s a problem not only for cell phones but for TV and Internet and certainly so when there’s an influx of people in Ocean City. It’s much slower.”
Kovac acknowledged that years ago a petition was circulated in Montego Bay to oppose cell towers in the community. However, she said the petition had more to do with more light poles than the towers atop them.
“In the last five years, the numbers of homes have been sold in Montego Bay has been unbelievable,” she said. “A lot of the people who signed that petition are no longer within Montego Bay and I just feel the connectivity issue needs to be relooked at it … for those of who have real issues.”
Concerns were heard last week, too. At the end of last week’s council meeting, DeLuca called on Council President Matt James and City Manager Terry McGean to add a discussion on connectivity issues in the Montego Bay community to a future work session agenda. He said he wanted to discuss placing a macro cell tower at either Northside Park or another suitable location to alleviate issues on a handful of streets in the neighborhood.
“All I’m trying to do is solve an issue that I know we have right now,” he said.
However, after some discussion, James concluded it would be the association’s responsibility to make the request. Some on the council pointed
to Montego Bay’s continued opposition to placing cell towers in their community.
“If the neighborhood has a board of directors, I think they should make the request,” he said.
In an interview last week, DeLuca said he had first heard of connectivity issues while campaigning for reelection last year. He said between five and 10 Montego Bay residents had approached him to relate stories of dropped calls and lack of connectivity for emergency or medical situations.
“It was really bad,” he recalled.
With their concerns in mind, DeLuca said he had reached out to a friend to see if his company would be interested in placing a macro cell tower at either Northside Park or on property the city owned in Montego Bay. He said he and staff had met with company representatives to move forward with an installation at Northside Park – which the company would pay for – when the project hit a roadblock.
City Manager Terry McGean told the council last week that staff were working with a firm to install a cell tower at Northside Park when it was learned the property was purchased with Program Open Space money. That funding, he said, came with
Continued from Page 20
deed restrictions.
“To erect a tower there, including ground mount equipment, the state considers that, basically, a change of use outside of what’s allowed under the deed restrictions of Program Open Space,” he explained.
Specifically, McGean said the problem is the cell tower’s ground mount equipment. If the council wants to proceed with its installation, it must go through a conveyance process.
“We would have to find another piece of property of equal or greater size than the footprint of the ground mount equipment that we would purchase and deed restrict as Open Space …,” he said. “I was not comfortable pushing forward with this without bringing it to the council.”
When asked about the connectivity issues, both DeLuca and Councilman Larry Yates – a Montego Bay resident – said they had received complaints from residents. Yates said he was most concerned for those who needed internet connection for medical equipment.
“There’s some people in there who can’t get connectivity at all. Mine’s sporadic. It depends on the weather or how many people are in town,” he said. “The biggest concerns I’m hearing are there are a lot of electronic devices that are for medical support. It’s needed, but they’re unable to get that.”
However, both James and Councilman Jake Mitrecic – another Montego Bay resident – said those concerns should be brought forward by the civic association. Mitrecic noted that the association has shared its opposition to cell towers in their
neighborhood.
“It would be good to hear from the board and have them bring that forward …,” he said. “If you don’t want it in your neighborhood, but you want it to cover your neighborhood, it creates a bit of a problem.”
Mitrecic said he didn’t support an installation at Northside Park but would consider other nearby locations.
DeLuca said connectivity was an issue in areas of Montego Bay, “whether the board wants it or not.” While he did not like the idea of installing small-cell towers in residential areas, he said he would support the installation of a macro cell tower or mobile cell site, also known as a cell on wheels.
However, James maintained he wanted the Montego Bay Civic Association board to bring the issue forward.
“It would just be helpful to have consensus from that group,” Councilman John Gehrig added.
One week later, after hearing from two speakers at Monday’s council meeting, DeLuca again requested “macro cell towers” be placed on a future meeting agenda. Yates seconded the motion.
Councilman Will Savage asked DeLuca to consider amending the motion to include all of Ocean City as he noted connectivity issues with Comcast over the summer.
“It seems to be a citywide issue on the south end of town, especially in the summer. It’s pretty much useless,” Savage said.
DeLuca agreed and the council agreed unanimously to evaluate connectivity issues throughout Ocean City, including Montego Bay.
Continued from Page 18
Keener, the county’s director of Development Review & Permitting.
Keener shared the top-level details of the bill with the commissioners ahead of their vote to delay Tuesday.
It modifies the solar farm review process to be consistent with current practices in state law and adds the bonding stipulation for decommissioning.
The bill also says utility-scale solar farms – ones generating at least 2 megawatts of electricity, enough to power hundreds of homes – that don’t generate power after six months are said to be formally abandoned.
After a year, an abandoned solar farm is then deemed a public nuisance.
State law also requires posting a bond for utility-scale solar but that
doesn’t include the cost of salvage. The county’s bill does include salvage costs.
The commissioners have more closely eyed solar farm oversight since state lawmakers passed the Renewable Energy Certainty Act in May, which set new state zoning standards for community solar projects that were more restrictive than what Worcester County had on the books.
That law (SB 931) not only set new aesthetic standards for buffering, lighting, and height restrictions, it also altered the level of control the state could exert on county solar projects: any solar farms meeting the utility-grade standard of more than 2 megawatts can be preempted by the state, snatching the final say from county leaders. Commissioners have been vocal about their opposition.
(Sept. 19, 2025) The Worcester County Sheriff’s Office is asking for the community’s help in identifying two people wanted in connection with a theft.
On Sept. 7, 2025, around 3 p.m., two females entered the Walmart in Berlin. While inside, they concealed items including baby formula and shoes before leaving the store without paying. They were last seen leaving in a burgundy Chevrolet passenger car with an unknown tag number.
Anyone who recognizes these individuals or the vehicle should contact A/Cpl. Noah King at nking@worcestermd.gov or call 410-632-1111.
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September 19th thru September 21st
By Tara Fischer Staff Writer
(Sept. 19, 2025) Berlin’s popular and enduring Fiddler’s Convention is back this weekend for its 33rd year of bluegrass, folk, and country tunes.
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
Berlin’s Chamber of Commerce is gearing up to host the convention on Main Street, which will begin Friday at 6 p.m. and conclude at around 10 p.m. The festival will continue into Saturday with music and entertainment planned from 11 a.m. until 5 p.m.
Friday night will feature bands such as The String Buzzards from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. and The Plate Scrapers from 8 p.m. until 10 p.m.
On Saturday, The High and Wides will play from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.,
and The Clendenen Brothers, a group making their Fiddler’s Convention debut, will perform from 3:30 p.m. until 5 p.m.
Garrett Neville, the chamber’s president, said that the organization affectionately refers to Friday as “a good locals’ night.”
“The street is open later, and shops usually stay open later as well,” he said.
Also included in the two-day lineup is a contest for amateur musicians on Saturday from 1:30 p.m. until 3 p.m. The performers will have the opportunity to showcase their talent, and a judge has been selected to determine the winners.
Entries are still open for youth and adult categories, said David Fitzger-
ald, the chamber’s incoming president.
Chamber officials said that they are expecting 2,000 to 3,000 attendees on Saturday alone. Food trucks will be on-site for residents and visitors to grab lunch and dinner, and beer and wine tickets can be purchased from the commerce organization at the event. Around 20 vendors are slated for the second day of the festival.
New this year is the event’s stage placement. Neville said that on Friday night, the platform will be situated in its traditional spot near Sterling Tavern. On Saturday, it will be parked in the center of town.
The Fiddler’s Convention is a Berlin tradition that has spanned decades. Fitzgerald noted that due to its popularity and scale, planning for the event begins up to one year in advance.
“We will probably, even this weekend, start our 2026 planning because I’m sure these bands will ask about coming back, or they will give us their availability for next year,” the official said.
The Fiddler’s Convention is free to attend, with food, beverages, and alcohol available for sale. The festival benefits the town by bringing business to its shops. Furthermore, proceeds from the beer and wine tickets will directly go back into the Berlin Chamber of Commerce, allowing the group to continue hosting its lineup of events.
The commerce team is looking forward to this weekend and ensuring the longstanding and beloved convention goes off without a hitch.
“The convention continues the
dition
to expect
here on Main Street,” Neville said. “Like most of our events, it’s good family fun, good music, good food, good vendors, and another reason to
•Primary
•Back
•Recent
•Amenity-rich
•Ocean
(Sept. 19, 2025) The Sunfest Kite Festival will celebrate its 46th year in downtown Ocean City this weekend.
Sponsored and organized by The Kite Loft, the event invites everyone to witness and participate – for free- in general kite flying, kite flying games, Bol races, candy drops, sport kite demos, or just plain kite spectating.
Visitors 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 others.
This year organizers will be hosting a "Kids Kite Fly". At 1 p.m. on Saturday, free kites will be given to the first 60 kids who show up. Only kids between the ages of 5 to 12 are eligible for the free kite. Employees of The Kite Loft will help them assemble and launch the kite right on the beach at 5th Street. All local families and visitors alike are encouraged to come to The Kite Loft at around 12:30 to get started. Get ready to paint the sky.
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 there
will be as many as 16 quad flyers standing side by side, flying to music, all in perfect formation.
Be sure to bring the kids down to the Candy Drops where we drop candy from a large kite on both Saturday and Sunday.
All the events listed above are wind and weather permitting.
(Sept. 19, 2025) The Ocean City Beautification Committee maintains the Reflections of Life metal tree sculpture that is located in the lobby of the Roland E. Powell Convention Center. A loved one can be honored with a gold leaf on the sculpture for a tax-deductible donation. The leaf can honor an individual, commemorate a special occasion or celebrate other important events or people.
From now until Nov. 1, the OCBC is offering gold leaves for $250 instead of $500, a savings of 50 percent. Silver and bronze leaves and stepping stones are no longer available.
The Reflections of Life program
has funded such projects as the spring bulbs in planters at City Hall, Convention Center and Entry Park. Other projects include the garden at the foot of the Route 50 bridge, the custom water feature outside at the entrance to the Convention Center, the memory garden bayside at the Convention Center and the lighted trees at City Hall. Funds raised in the future will go toward other landscaping and beautification projects in town. For more information about the Reflections of Life tree or to purchase a dedication leaf or stepping stone, contact Elizabeth Dare at 443-2351160 or email liz1650@msn.com
(Sept. 18, 2025) Atlantic General Hospital will host free flu clinics at various locations throughout Worcester County that are open to anyone age 12 and up (individuals under age 18 must bring a parent or legal guardian to sign consent).
Trivalent flu shots and high-dose “senior” flu shots will be available at all events unless otherwise noted. Please see below for more information:
• Tuesday, Sept. 30, 2025, from 5:30 to 8 p.m. at the John H. ‘Jack’ Burbage, Jr. Regional Cancer Care Center (9707 Healthway Drive,
Berlin). This event is a drive-thru flu clinic.
• Wednesday, Oct. 1, 2025, from 10:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at St. Peter’s Lutheran Church (10301 Coastal Highway, Ocean City).
• Thursday, Oct. 2, 2025, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Pocomoke City Volunteer Fire Company (1410 Market St., Pocomoke City).
• Friday, Oct. 3, 2025, from 8 a.m. to noon at the Ocean Pines Community Center’s Assateague Room (235 Ocean Parkway, Berlin).
• Wednesday, Oct. 8, 2025, from 11
a.m. to 1 p.m. at Stevenson United Methodist Church Spirit Kitchen (123 N. Main St., Berlin).
• Thursday, Oct. 9, 2025, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Holy Savior Catholic Church (1705 Philadelphia Ave., Ocean City).
• Friday, Oct. 10, 2025, from 8 a.m. to noon at the Ocean Pines Community Center (235 Ocean Parkway, Berlin). This event is a drive-thru flu clinic.
• Saturday, Oct. 11, 2025, from 8 a.m. to noon at the Gudelsky Family Medical Center (10614 Racetrack
Road, Berlin). This event is a drivethru flu clinic.
• Thursday, Oct. 16, 2025, from 11:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at the Atlantic Club (11827 Ocean Gateway). Highdose “senior” flu shots are not available at this event.
• Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Snow Hill Volunteer Fire Department (4718 Snow Hill Road, Snow Hill).
To learn more about these events, contact Population Health Manager Alyce Marzola at 410-641-9268 or alyce.marzola@tidalhealth.org.
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(Sept. 19, 2025) The Maryland Coastal Bays Program and the Ocean Pines community will host this Sunday the annual Marine Debris Plunder.
From 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Captain Jack and his crew of volunteers will be at the White Horse Park boat ramp waiting for volunteers to bring debris collected out of our waterways.
Both boaters and land-based volunteers are encouraged to join the cleanup effort. Gather collected debris and bring it to the Ocean Pines White Horse Park Boat Ramp for a weigh-in. Captain Jack Sparrow and his pirate crew will assist with the weigh-in and ensure proper disposal of the debris.
Preregistration is encouraged and can be completed online at the Maryland Coastal Bays Program website, www.mdcoastalbays.org, or by contacting Sandi Smith at mcbp@mdcoastalbays.org .
Thanks to a sponsorship from Ron Jon Surf Shop, supply packets can be picked up at the Yacht Club Marina or the MCBP office on a pre-arranged date, or at the boat ramp the day of the event.
Participants who bring their collected debris to the weigh-in will receive an event T-shirt, while supplies last.
The goal of this event is to engage the community in cleaning up our waterways and streets and to collect data on the debris. Participants will be asked to fill out data sheets, which will be used for an outreach campaign next year to remind visitors of the importance of keeping local waterways clean.
Boaters will receive specific instructions on identifying marine debris and avoiding live traps, as crabbing season is in effect. It is illegal to tamper with live traps.
Boaters are encouraged to collect abandoned and derelict crab pots, which often become ghost pots that trap and kill marine life, including crabs, terrapins, otters, and fish.
(Sept. 19, 2025) Four former educators were inducted to the WCPS Hall of Fame by the Worcester County Board of Education and Worcester County Retired School Personnel Association (WCRPSA) during the Board of Education meeting Tuesday.
William Thomas “Tom” Dorman, Willie C. Jackson, Gwendolyn F. Lehman and Francis A. Ruffo, Sr. became the second class of retirees to ever be inducted into the Worcester County Public Schools Hall of Fame.
Collectively, the class dedicated 126 years to the school system and impacted the entire county with their service to the young people of Worcester. More information about this year’s class of inductees can be on the school system’s Hall of Fame page on its website.
The WCPS Hall of Fame interactive installation was also updated with the new class of inductees. Housed at the Worcester County Board of Education Office, the installation allows visitors to utilize an iPad to navigate a large screen display through the different
classes of inductees as they are added each year, and within each class are vignettes of each inductee along with information about their legacy with Worcester County Public Schools.
The Worcester County Public Schools Hall of Fame program was established in 2022 by the Worcester County Board of Education and Worcester County Retired School Personnel Association.
George Turner of Bishopville has
been named the new state executive director for the USDA Farm Service Agency in Maryland. Turner joined the Maryland agency on Aug. 25.
“When America’s farming communities prosper, the entire nation thrives. This new group of USDA appointees will ensure President Trump’s America First agenda is a reality in rural areas across the country,” said Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins.
“I am grateful for the leadership of these new state directors and look forward to their work reorienting the
agency to put Farmers First again,” he said.
Farm Service state executive directors carry out U.S. Department of Agriculture’s at the state level to ensure that the agency’s focus is on meeting the needs of local agricultural producers by putting farmers and ranchers first, FSA Administrator Bill Beam said.
Turner brings more than 41 years of Maryland agriculture and Farm Service experience to his role as executive director. He most recently served as the FSA District Director for Maryland’s District 2. Prior to his role as district director, he served as the
county executive director for the agency’s Worcester County Office.
Turner will now be responsible for overseeing the delivery of agency programs to agricultural producers in Maryland. These commodity, conservation, credit, and disaster assistance programs ensure a safe, affordable, abundant and nutritious food, fiber, and fuel supply for all Americans.
According to the agency, it America’s farmers, ranchers and forest landowners invest in, improve, protect and expand their agricultural operations through the delivery of agricultural programs for all Americans.
The agency implements agricultural
policy, administers credit and loan programs, and manages conservation, commodity, disaster recovery and marketing programs through a national network of state and county offices and locally elected county committees.
The Worcester County Commissioners and the Public Works Recycling Division will host Citizens Scrap Tire Drop-Off Day on Saturday, October 4, 2025, from 8 a.m. until 1 p.m. This event will take place at the Central Landfill in Newark.
“Recycling old and unwanted tires
plays an important role in diverting waste from the landfill and increases recycling rates countywide,” Recycling Manager Bob Keenan said. Worcester County residents are invited to recycle their old, scrap, passenger, and light truck tires free of charge, with a limit of 10 tires per household (photo ID required). Only non-commercial truck and car tires will be accepted. No agricultural tires will be accepted, and no businesses, commercial haulers of tires, or generators of scrap tires will be permitted to participate in the Citizen Scrap Tire Drop-Off. For more info, contact Keenan at 410-632-3177, ext. 2405.
Acadia Landing LEWES, DE
Now Selling Single Family Homes from the Upper $400s
ballenger creek HARBESON, DE
Coming Soon Single Family Homes
Bridgewater SELBYVILLE, DE
Now Selling Single Family Homes from the Mid $500s
deer creek LINCOLN, DE
Coming Soon Single Family Homes
forest landing ELLENDALE, DE
Coming Soon Single Family Homes Toownhomes
four winds farm LTTON, DE
Coming Soon Single Family Homes
High Tide at lighthouse bay
OCEAN CITY, , MD
Final Opportunity Toownhomes from the Mid $700s
Heritage creek LTTON, DE
Final Opportunity Single Family Homes from the Upper $400s
rtty east MILLSBORO, DE
Now Selling Single Family Homes from the Low $400s
Milos Haven FRANKFORD, DE
Final Opportunity Villas from the Low $400s
Newdale acres ELLENDALE, DE
Now Selling Single Family Homes and Toownhomes from the Upper $200s
Pelican Point MILLSBORO, , DE
Now Selling Single Family Homes from the Low $400s
rtton Chase MILLSBORO, , DE
Now Selling Single Family Homes from the Upper $300s
lakeside at trappe
TRAPPE, MD
Now Selling Single Family Homes and Toownhomes from the Upper $200s
the oaks GEORGETOWN, Coming Soon Toownhomes
vines creek crossing FRANKFORD, DE
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Plantation Lakes ry y Club
MILLSBORO, , DE
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By Tara Fischer Staff Writer
(Sept. 18, 2025) Several of the advisory committees in Ocean Pines that had been tasked with recommending initiatives and community improvements to the Board of Directors may be eliminated later this week.
The Ocean Pines Association has numerous committees assigned to assess specific aspects of community life and association operations.
These include the Aquatics Advisory Committee, the Golf Advisory Committee, the Recreation and Parks Advisory Committee, the Environment and Natural Assets Committee, the Strategic Planning Advisory Committee, the Bylaws and Resolutions Advisory Committee, the Communications Advisory Committee, the Marine Activities Advisory Committee, the Elections Committee, the Architectural Review Committee and the Budget and Finance Committee.
Now, some of these groups could be disbanded per a motion to be put forward at the OPA Board of Directors meeting this Saturday. If passed, these groups would be eliminated, save for the Elections Committee, the Architectural Review Committee, and
the Budget and Finance Committee.
In a memorandum to the committee chairs obtained by the Bayside Gazette, Director Jeff Heavner advises them that he plans to call for a vote on terminating the majority of the advisory committees.
Heavner’s letter explains that he believes the committees no longer serve OPA as they once did.
Per the community’s governing documents, the board is authorized to establish advisory committees “as may be necessary to, or convenient in, the Association’s discharging [of its] duties.”
Heavner’s memorandum says these groups must take direction from the board and provide requested advice to the board and, under Resolution C-01, “are encouraged to provide recommendations to the board that will ‘enhance the management and functioning of the Association.’”
Heavnor maintains that while volunteerism is recognized and applauded, it is no longer necessary in an advisory capacity, particularly because OPA’s management and departmental team has “grown in size and in depth of talent and capability,”
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ultimately rendering the committees redundant.
The friction between the board and the advisory groups has reached a flashpoint, according to Heavner’s letter, which says committees are often left frustrated when their ideas are deemed unfeasible or do not align with the priorities of the community’s management team and elected officials.
The director notes that this sometimes hostile climate has led to conflict among committees, the board, and management.
“The lines of communication between the committees and the board and/or management have become inefficient and strained,” Heavner’s letter reads.
The director argues that ad hoc
groups would be better suited for the community at this time. These teams can gather when needed to focus on assigned missions, rather than hold regular meetings in which they search for projects that may not be in sync with the neighborhood’s strategies.
Heavner will propose eliminating the existing committees at a public board meeting this week. The board will be required to vote on the action item and a majority of the directors must concur with Heavnor for anything to happen.
Residents will have the chance to speak at the upcoming neighborhood assembly on this situation or other unrelated issues.
Heavnor maintains that three committees will be exempt from the motion: “the Election Committee
(which serves an important governance-related role and has required status under the OPA Bylaws); the Architectural Review Committee (which is required under the OPA Declarations and serves the important role of formulating ARC Guidelines for Board consideration and considering and acting on permit and variance requests from members); and the Budget and Finance Committee (the existence of which derives from Bylaw section 9.04 and which has a narrow, clear, and annually recurring role in assisting with the preparation of the annual budget).”
Heavner’s memorandum has sparked outrage on social media.
“This proposal isn’t just a procedural tweak: it’s a fundamental shift that threatens homeowner engagement, transparency, and the collaborative spirit that built Ocean Pines,” wrote resident Amy Peck on the Facebook page Ocean Pines ROC.
“We must speak up,” she continued. “If passed, this motion tells every homeowner: ‘Your voice doesn’t matter.’ It concentrates power, dismantles decades of collaboration, and undermines the inclusive governance we all deserve.”
Heavner’s proposed motion is not the first time committees have been questioned. In April 2024, OPA’s Board of Directors voted 6-1 to disband the Racquet Sports Advisory Committee. The decision came following months of disputes between the group and the HOA’s governing body.
Most notably, the volunteer team claimed that the old building at the paddle sports complex contained mold in an apparent attempt to persuade the directors to construct an entirely new facility.
The community initiated an evaluation, which revealed, after $10,000 spent on labor, supplies, and services, that no mold was present within the structure. Soon after, the Racquet Sports Advisory Committee was terminated.
Heavner maintained in his recent memorandum that while he sees the value in the committees, they no longer productively serve Ocean Pines.
“I am making this motion after careful consideration and in furtherance of my fiduciary duties, which I take very seriously, and also in furtherance of what I believe to be in the best interests of the Association,” his letter concluded. “I am also doing so with due respect for the volunteer service your respective Committees have generously provided, for which I am thankful.”
The meeting where the motion will be voted upon is set for 9 a.m. on Saturday at the Ocean Pines Golf Course Clubhouse. The Ocean Pines ROC Facebook page urges residents to make their voices heard at the gathering. Public comments are permitted
By Tara Fischer Staff Writer
(Sept. 19, 2025) The Berlin Planning Commission last week reviewed preliminary subdivision plans for the construction of phase five of a development project at Purnell Crossing South.
Troy Purnell, property owner, and attorney Mark Cropper went before the municipality's planning commission last Wednesday seeking preliminary blessing for the subdivision of land off Prospect Drive.
The commission signed off on the initiative's initial design. Final approval, which includes the review of utility, landscaping, and other required plans, must be obtained through a subsequent application and review process.
The original Purnell Crossing Planned Unit Development was greenlit in the early 2000s, and the land intended for phase five has always been denoted as space for future development.
Last week, the Berlin Planning Commission heard the preliminary plans to divide this property into three parcels for eventual construction. Purnell maintained that he is unsure if he will sell the area or build it up himself. Still, a designated setup will allow Purnell to either move forward with construction
or relinquish the space.
Currently, Purnell said that he plans to construct 20 single-family homes on the property, assuming he doesn’t put the site on the market.
The land will be divided into three parcels: one being an extension of the existing roadway, which, once completed, will be turned over to the Town of Berlin, as well as the water and sewer lines underneath. A second parcel would be used for the proposed 20 single-family homes, and a third a section would be used for stormwater management, likely to include a pond and drainage area.
“We need to go ahead and establish this now to go forward,” Purnell said. “We are very, very close as far as design drawings, construction drawings, and everything else.”
Once the development is complete, the repairs to the roads and sewer would be the responsibility of the Town of Berlin. As for stormwater management, an association agreement will be set up that dictates that all the owners will share in any maintenance fees or future costs.
Last week’s review was strictly preliminary. The commission will hear the project once again at a later date for final site plan approval.
BURLEY OAK
BREWING COMPANY
443-513-4647
10016 Old Ocean City Blvd.,
Berlin
Sat., Sept.20: Buds & Brews
BUXY’S SALTY DOG & DRY DOCK 28
410-289-BUXY
28th Street Coastal Hwy.
Fri., Sept. 19: Full Circle
CAPTAIN’S TABLE
410-289-7192
15th & Boardwalk
In The Courtyard Marriott
Fridays & Saturdays: Phil Perdue
CARIBBEAN POOL BAR
410-289-6181
In The Plim Plaza Hotel
109 N. Atlantic Ave.
Fri., Sept. 19: TBA Sat., Sept. 20: TBA
COCONUTS BEACH BAR
410-289-6846
Oceanfront At Castle
In The Sand Hotel
37th & 38th Streets
Fri., Sept. 19: Darin Engh & Clockwork Band
Sat., Sept. 20: Kevin Poole & Joe Mama & Chris Diller Band
Sun., Sept. 21: Aaron Howell
Duo & Homeskool Dropouts
Mon., Sept. 22: Nate Clendenen & The Rogue Citizens
Tues., Sept. 23: Jack Bannon & Lime Green Band
Wed., Sept. 24: Bell Bottom Blues & Lime Green Band
Thurs., Sept. 25: Honeydu Duo & Kevin Poole & Joe Mama
COINS PUB
410-289-3100
28th Street Plaza
On Coastal Hwy.
Fri., Sept. 19: TBA
Sat., Sept. 20: Jim Long Party & The Rockoholics
CRABCAKE FACTORY
BAYSIDE
302-988-5000
37314 Lighthouse Rd., Rte. 54, Selbyville, DE
Fri., Sept. 19: Kevin Poole
Wed., Sept. 24: Fil Rhythm
CRAWL STREET TAVERN
443-373-2756
Wicomico St., Downtown O.C.
Fri., Sept. 19: Shredded Cheddar
Sat., Sept. 20: Vanylla Godzylla
Thurs., Sept. 25: DJ Magellan & Ted Bowne
FAGER’S ISLAND
410-524-5500
60th St., In The Bay
Fri., Fri., Sept. 19: Denim N Lace, DJ RobCee & Jenxxa
Sat., Sept. 20: Dustin Showers Band, DJ Vybe & The All Star Band
THE BOOGIEMEN
Greene Turtle West: Thursday, September 25
ROGUE CITIZENS
Harborside: Saturday, September 20
Coconuts Beach Bar: Monday, September 22
THE ROCKOHOLICS
Coins Pub: Saturday, September 20
Jolly Jellyfish Beach Club: Sunday, September 21
KEVIN POOLE & JOE MAMA
Coconuts Beach Bar: Saturday, September 20 & Thursday, September 25
DENIUM N LACE
Fager’s Island: Friday, September 19
BEACH BANDITS
Jolly Jellyfish Beach Club: Thursday, September 25
OPPOSITE DIRECTIONS
Harborside: Sunday, September 21
Mon., Sept. 22: DJ Wax
Thurs., Sept. 25: Pineapple Band & DJ Groove
FISH TALES
410-289-0990
22nd St., & Bay Sat., Sept. 20: TBA
GREENE TURTLE WEST
410-213-1500
Route 611, West OC
Thurs., Sept. 25: The Boogiemen
HARBORSIDE 410-213-1846
South Harbor Rd., West End O.C.
Fri., Sept. 19: DJ Billy T
Sat., Sept. 20: Rogue Citizens & DJ Bigler Sun., Sept. 21: Opposite Directions
Wednesdays: DJ Billy T
Thursdays: Dust N Bones
JOLLY JELLYFISH BEACH CLUB 443-664-6147
98th Street Coastal Hwy.,
Plaza Condominium
Fri., Sept. 19: Lennon LaRicci
Sat., Sept. 20: DJ Giddy Up Sun., Sept. 21: The Rockoholics
Wednesdays: Joe Mama & Friends
Thursdays: Beach Bandits
PICKLES PUB
410-289-4891
8th St. & Philadelphia Ave.
Fridays: Beats By DeoGee
Sat., Sept. 20: Marlin City Madmen
Sundays: Beats By Styler
Mondays: Karaoke w/ Wood
Tuesdays: Beats By Wax
Wednesdays: Beats By Madame Dutchess
Thursdays: Beats By Connair
PURPLE MOOSE SALOON
410-289-6953
Between Caroline & Talbot Sts. On The Boards Fri. & Sat., Sept. 19 & 20: Thunderball
Wed., Sept. 24: DJ Papi
SEACRETS
410-524-4900
49th St. & Coastal Hwy.
Fri., Sept. 19: John McNutt Duo, DJ E-State, DJ Davie & Hometown Radio
Sat., Sept. 20:
Whiskeyhickon Boys, DJ J-Spin, Hometown Radio, DJ Davie & Sean Patrick Band
Thurs., Sept. 25: Faith Noel, DJ E-State, DJ J-Spins & Amish Outlaws
THE WEDGE 410-289-5121
806 S. Atlantic Ave.
Sun., Sept. 21: Jason Lee
Thurs., Sept. 25: Joe Esham
■ PRICE RANGE: $, $$, $$$
■ RESERVATIONS: Reservations accepted
South end to 28th Street
■ BUXY’S SALTY DOG SALOON
DRY DOCK 28
28th Street, Ocean City, 410-289-0973, buxys.com, drydockoc.com
Destiny has a new home in Ocean City. From the ‘burgh to the beach, Buxy’s is your home away from Pittsburgh. Come see what all the locals already know and have known – Buxy’s is the place to come to meet friends, relax and be social with no attitudes. House specialties include “The” Cheesesteak Sub, Primanti-styled sandwiches, pierogis, egg-rolls and homemade crab dip. Dry Dock also features a full menu with soups, salads, kick starters, pierogis and craft pizza.
■ CAPTAIN’S TABLE
15th Street and Baltimore Avenue, in The Courtyard by Marriott, Ocean City 410-2897192, captainstableoc.com
$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar
A local tradition for over 60 years featuring hand cut steaks, premium lobster and perfectly prepared regional seafood. Breakfast daily 7:30-11 a.m. Open daily for dinner: Sunday through Thursday, 4-9 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 4-10 p.m. Happy Hour, seven days a week, 4-6 p.m.
■ COINS PUB & RESTAURANT
28th Street Plaza and Coastal Highway, Ocean City 410-289-3100, www.coinspuboc.com
$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar
American style local restaurant serving seafood, steaks and chefs specials. Check out the off season weekday specials. Early bird; daily, 25:30 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. Dine-in, carry out.
■ CORAL REEF RESTAURANT & BAR
17th Street in the Holiday Inn & Suites, Ocean City 410-289-2612, coralreefrestaurant.com
$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar
Enjoy traditional Eastern Shore cuisine and local favorites that are sure to please your entire party! Choose from a selection of house specialty entrees such as sharables, handhelds and seafood. Serving breakfast, lunch and dinner. Featuring specialty rums. Open daily, 7:30 a.m. to 9 p.m.
■ CRAWL STREET
19 Wicomico St., Ocean City, 443-373-2756, crawlstreet.com
Established in 2020 just a short walk from the legendary Cork Bar. Don’t leave without trying the famous wings, but everything on the menu is solid, including flatbreads, tacos, salads, sandwiches and seafood platters. Be sure to check out the live music offerings as the nightlife is top of the line.
■ DISTRICT 24 CRAFT BAR, JAY’S CAFÉ & BLU CRABHOUSE & RAW BAR
2305 Philadelphia Ave., Ocean City 410-2893322, district24oc.com
There is more at District 24. Enjoy breakfast, lunch, pastries and coffee at Jay’s Cafe. CRAFT Pizza, Beer & Cocktails at CRAFT Lounge. Fresh Seafood at BLU Crabhouse & Raw Bar. Enjoy an elevated dining experience with great chophouse dishes and charcuterie boards, along with a Wine Spectator Award Wining Wine Menu at Embers Rooftop Restaurant. There is something for everyone at District 24 like live music in the courtyard, mini golf, arcade play and axe throwing.
■ FISH TALES
2107 Herring Way, Ocean City, 410-289-0990, ocfishtales.com
Bayfront marina dining offered here with a huge menu to satisfy guests of all ages. Enjoy a drink from a hanging chair or fish tacos at your table while the kids play in a playground build in the sand. Food and drink menus offer enough of a variety to meet all needs.
■ HARBOR WATCH
806 S. Atlantic Avenue, Ocean City 410-2895121, www.harborwatchrestaurant.com
$$-$$$ | Reservations | Kids’ Menu | Full bar
Celebrating our 41st anniversary with fresh seafood, an award-winning raw bar, mouthwatering steaks and the best view of the Ocean City Inlet and Assateague Island. Open every day. Monday through Wednesday open at 4 p.m. Thursday through Sunday open at 11:30 a.m. Call for banquet and large-party details.
■ PICKLES PUB
706 Philadelphia Ave., Ocean City, 410-2894891, picklesoc.com
$$ | 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 year-round 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. Familyfriendly atmospheres at both locations. Weekend entertainment.
■ THE WEDGE BAR
806 S. Atlantic Ave, Ocean City, www.thewedgeoc.com
$-$$ | Full bar
Panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean, bay and Assateague Island. Enjoy small plates, sandwiches and grilled burgers. Open every day, 11:30 a.m. to 10 p.m.
29th to 90th streets
■ 32 PALM
32nd Street in The Hilton, Ocean City 410-2892525, 32palm.com
$$ | 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, 410-5247171, 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, 410-289-6846, castleinthesand.com
A tropical open-air patio steps from the beach. A unique place for lunch or dinner with a menu featuring all the customary items and a few Ocean City-based surprises. Guests can also enjoy beach service for lunch and cocktails. Be sure to check out the daily entertainment schedule.
■ FAGERS ISLAND
201 60th St., Ocean City, 410-524-5500, fagers.com
$$ | Full bar
Dine on the island with an award-winning bayfront restaurant featuring American & Regional dining with a global influence and popular destination featuring impeccably prepared American and Pacific Rim cuisine. Also enjoy our outdoor decks and bar with live entertainment and 32 wines by the glass. A place where the joy of food & the presence of the table are of utmost importance. Dine on fresh seafood and our famous Prime Rib. Enjoy beautiful sunsets over the water. Open 11 a.m. daily. Fine dine at 4:30 p.m.
■ HOOKED
8003 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, 410-7234665, hookedoc.com
$$ | 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, 443-6645693, longboardcafe.com
$$-$$$ | Full bar
Casual Dining … Refined. Open for lunch and dinner. A wide range of gourmet burgers, innovative tacos, salads and sandwiches to full dinner entrees featuring fresh local fish prepared in a variety of styles, beef, shellfish and pasta. All our sauces, salsas, dressings, etc. are meticulously house made. We use fresh local sources wherever possible and premium ingredients such as our chuck, brisket and short rib custom blended burgers. Closed Tuesday. Call for reservations.
■ MARLIN MOON RESTAURANT
3301 Atlantic Ave., in the Double Tree Hotel, Ocean City 410-289-1201, marlinmoonocmd.com
$$ | Full bar
Winner of the Maryland People's choice award, Marlin Moon continues to offer its famous, locally loved dishes and famous happy hour. Enjoy creatively crafted cocktails, fresh selections from the raw bar and luscious desserts. Happy Hour, every day, 3-6 p.m., featuring drink specials. Breakfast, 7:30-11:30 a.m.; Lite Fare, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.; Dinner, 4-10 p.m.; and Bar open noon to 11 p.m.
■ SEACRETS
49th Street, Ocean City 410-524-4900, www.seacrets.com
$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar
Open Sunday through Friday at 11 a.m., 10 a.m. on Saturdays, close at 2 a.m. Enjoy a tropical atmosphere and dine under the palms in our outdoor, kid friendly dining area or try a Seacrets Beachin' Cocktails in the Bay with live music every day open to close. The club is open every night in the summer. Try our famous jerk chicken with homemade honey mustard sauce, Pushcart Trio, a true Jamaican dish or a hearty wrap, sandwich or delicious burger. We have it all at Seacrets.
■ ALBERTINO'S BRICK OVEN & EATERY
13117 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, 410-2502000, albertinosoc.com
$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar
Featuring the best brick oven pizza, always handmade with fresh ingredients, Italian-American mouth-watering seafood specialties, traditional Italian pasta dishes, apps, soups and salads. Full bar with large local craft beer selection.
■ CAROUSEL OCEANFRONT HOTEL & CONDOS
118th Street, Ocean City 800-641-0011, www.carouselhotel.com
The Carousel Oceanfront Resort offers a family friendly casual dining experience with their Reef 118 restaurant. Offering dinner Thursday through Saturday from 5-9 p.m., featuring AYCE Crab legs. Serving breakfast on Fridays and Saturdays from 8 a.m. Their new "Go for 2" happy hour features $10 appetizers as a buy one get one free. $1 oysters during all open hours.
■ THE CRAB BAG
13005 Coastal Highway Ocean City, 410-2503337, thecrabbag.com
$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar
Featuring consistent hot steamed crabs, eat in or carryout. The Crab Bag is also an Eastern Shore style seafood house specializing in preparing and serving the biggest and the best blue crabs available. The extensive menu promises something for everyone. Winter hours, Friday-Sunday, open 11 a.m.
■ CRABCAKE FACTORY USA
120th Street, oceanside, Ocean City, 410-2504900, 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.
■ JOLLY JELLYFISH BEACH CLUB
9800 Coastal Highway, Ocean City 443-6646147, jollyjellyfishbeachclub.com
Oceanfront bar with casual island style outdoor dining with awesome ocean views focused on cool beach vibes. Open for lunch and dinner and suitable for the entire family. Diverse menu available for every type of diner and featuring a cocktail menu with six housemade kegged cocktails. Every Sunday all summer features a “big deck energy party.” Entertainment daily, 4-7 p.m. Located in the Plaza Condominium with plenty of free parking.
■ VISTA ROOFTOP RESTAURANT
13801 Coastal Highway, located in the Fenwick Inn, Ocean City, 410-390-7905, vistarooftopoc.com
$$-$$$ | Full bar
Enjoy a wonderful meal overlooking the ocean and bay. Some of the most unique views in Ocean City. Steaks, seafood, burgers, soups, salads and lite fare. Happy hour, 3-6 p.m. New this year is a boozy brunch Saturdays and Sundays, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Live music.
■ CRABCAKE FACTORY BAYSIDE
Route 54, Fenwick Island, DE, 302-988-5000, CCFBayside.com
Same award-winning crab cakes and bloody marys. Enjoy waterfront dining. Full-service family restaurant, carry-out & sports bar. Outside seating available. Open daily year-round. Menu selections include crab cakes, prime rib, Philly-style
cheese steaks, various seafood, kids menu plus full breakfast menu.
■ DIRTY HARRY’S
100 Coastal Highway, Fenwick Island, DE, 302539-3020, Beach-net.com/dirtyharrys
$ | Kids’ Menu | Full bar
Don’t let the name fool you, the food is home cooking at its finest. Owned and operated by Ginny Swann and family for 19 years. Popular for the breakfast but getting rave reviews for lunch and dinner, too.
■ NANTUCKETS
Route 1, Fenwick Island, DE, 302-539-2607, 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., 302-436-2305, twiningshanty.com
Reservations | Kids’ Menu “A funky little place at the edge of town.” Classic New England fare, lobsters, steaks and burgers. Bird watching and magical sunsets await. Open for lunch and dinner. Reservations are suggested.
■ ASSATEAGUE BAR AND GRILL 9636 Stephen Decatur Highway, West Ocean City 443-664-8158, abarngrill.com
$$ | Full bar
Full service, family friendly, casual dining to please everyone. Offering breakfast lunch and dinner with breakfast being served all day. Classic American cuisine with a selection of delicious Maryland favorites. Happy hour everyday from 16 p.m. with bar specials and tasty bites. Daily specials Monday through Friday. Dine-in and carry-out.
■ BREAKFAST CAFE
12736 Ocean Gateway, Route 50 east, West Ocean City, 410-213-1804, breakfastcafeofoc.com
All the traditional breakfast options available here in a casual, diner setting. Open daily closing at 2 p.m.
■ CANTINA LOS AGAVES MEXICAN GRILL 12720 Ocean Gateway #7, West Ocean City 410-390-3914, cantinalosagaves.com
$$ | Kid’s menu | Full bar
Ocean City’s newest Mexican restaurant and bar. Offering delicious and generous portions of the tastiest traditional and not so traditional #MexicanEats you have ever tried. Open daily at 11 a.m. Serving food until 9 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday. Bar open til 11 p.m.
■ DUMSER’S DAIRYLAND
West Ocean City: Route 50 east; Boardwalk locations: 501 S. Philadelphia Ave., 49th Street, 123rd Street, Ocean City, dumsersdairyland.com
This classic ice cream shop is a tradition for many families. Voted O.C.’s “Best Ice Cream” for the past 20 years, Dumser’s is celebrating decades of serving the shore, and the ‘40s-style décor takes you back in time. With locations throughout Ocean City, treating your tastebuds to this signature homemade ice cream is easy. The 123rd Street location offers lunch and dinner menus in addition to a wide variety of ice cream treats.
■ GREENE TURTLE WEST
Route 611, West Ocean City, 410-213-1500
Proudly serving West Ocean City since January 1999, The Greene Turtle features a beautiful 80seat dining room, large bar area with 54 TVs with stereo sound and game room with pool tables. With an exciting menu, The Greene Turtle is sure to please with delicious sizzling steaks, jumbo lump crab cakes, raw bar, homemade salads and more. Live entertainment, Keno, Turtle apparel, kids menu, carry-out.
■ HARBORSIDE BAR & GRILL
12841 Harbor Rd., West Ocean City, 410-2131846, weocharborside.com
$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar Home of the original Orange Crush drink with an extensive menu offers a wide variety of appetizers, fresh seafood, steak & pasta entrees, as well as juicy burgers and sandwiches. Whether seeking a full dining experience or just a crush or two, the team will be sure to take excellent care of you and yours. Monday-Wednesday: 11 a.m.-9 p.m.; Thursday: 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Friday-Saturday: 11 a.m.-11 p.m.; Sunday: 11 a.m.-9 p.m. ■ OC DINER 12744 Ocean Gateway, Rt 50 east, Ocean City, 410-390-5112
Family owned for over 25 years. Serving the best homemade food. Local’s favorite. Breakfast served all day. Kids’ menu. Dine-in and carry-out. Open 7 days a week.
(Sept. 19, 2025) The Worcester County Arts Council announced the winners of the “Tell Me Your Story” juried art competition, a themed exhibition inviting artists to explore and express personal narratives through visual art.
The winning entries were selected by Tamara Mills, Fine Arts Coordinator for Worcester County Public Schools, and celebrated during the opening reception held on Friday, September 12 at the Worcester County Arts Council Gallery.
Award winners include first place, Kathy Huegel, “Fish Story” (Acrylic); second place, Joanne Guilfoil, “Final Approach” (Gouache); and third place, Judy Benton – “Feeling the Jazz” (Acrylic). Honorable mentions went to Lisa Leo, “Her Sacrifice” (Mixed Media); Jeanne Locklair, “FAM” (Watercolor/Pen/Acrylic); and Joyce Rose, “My Father – My Teacher” (Acrylic).
“Each of these works reflects the artist’s unique voice and experience, and we are proud to highlight such powerful storytelling through art,” said Anna Mullis, executive director of the Worcester County Arts Council. “This exhibit is a beautiful reminder of how art can connect us on a deeply human level.”
The “Tell Me Your Story” exhibition is currently on display at the Worcester County Arts Council Gallery and will remain open to the public through November 2, 2025. All artwork is available for purchase.
For more information about the exhibit or events, visit www.worces-
SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH
On June 27, the club formally known as the Post 166 Leathernecks graduated from a local American Legion Club to the Delmarva Leathernecks Foundation, Inc., a 501 (c) (3) tax exempt foundation. The Delmarva Leathernecks are a diverse group of veterans and patriots who believe that service doesn’t end when coming off active duty. The Delmarva Leathernecks will be meeting on the first Wednesday of each month at 5:30 PM at the Residence Inn located at 300 Seabay Lane, Ocean City, Maryland. Any local patriots interested in joining are welcome to come out and participate in the comradery and join us for a social hour following the meeting. Pictured, from left, are Tom Wengert, Vice President: Gene Dankewicz, Events Chairman: Vic Freeman, Chaplain: Jon Pearl, Treasurer: Don Coffin, President
On the first day of school, students in
PreK-4
SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH
The Ocean Pines Anglers Club at their September meeting hosted Nancy Gaither of the Assateague Island Alliance who spoke on the history of Assateague Island Refuge and State Park. Anglers Club meetings are held the second Saturday of each month, 9:30 a.m. in the Ocean Pines Library. Anglers Club Administrator Frank Tortella is shown with Nancy Gaither, AIA.
SUBMITTED PHOTO/ OC TODAY-DISPATCH
On
The Worcester Preparatory School (WPS) girls soccer team recently collected new backpacks and filled them with essential school supplies to donate to Buckingham Elementary School in Berlin. This tradition began more than 10 years ago, started by alumna and former teammate Marissa Grosso (‘18). Head Coach Carol Hartnett proudly continues the legacy each season, coordinating the effort in partnership with the WPS Volunteer Club. Hartnett said, “This project has always been about more than soccer. It’s about teaching our players the value of giving back and supporting younger students in our community.” Pictured are captains Olivia Soares and Cora McClanahan with Hartnett and backpacks filled with school supplies before delivering them to Buckingham Elementary School.
OC MAYOR SPEAKS TO CLUB
SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH
Ocean Mayor Rick Meehan visited the Kiwanis Club of Greater Ocean Pines-Ocean CIty in the Ocean Pines Community Center as the guest speaker. There were lots of questions on topics of offshore windmill turbines, Airbnb's in Ocean City, the boardwalk tram cars, scooter bikes and skateboards, the Route 50 drawbridge construction, the room tax, sports complex and recognition for the beach heroes who clean up the OC beach. He is pictured with Kiwanis Club President Tom Southwell.
SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH FEATURED SPEAKERS
On Wednesday Sept. 3, Art League of Ocean City Executive Director Rina Thaler and Director of Development Jessica Bauer were the guest speakers at the weekly meeting of the Kiwanis Club of Greater Ocean Pines-Ocean City. Thaler and Bauer shared information about their organization informing who they are and what they do, “to promote artistic expression and appreciation for the creative arts in the community.” The women are pictured with Kiwanis Club President Tom Southwell.
With Bunk Mann
Jackson's Casino was Ocean City's most popular nightclub in the late 1930s and throughout the 1940s. Music, drinks, and slot machines were the main attractions at the big wooden building on the Boardwalk between 9th and 10th Streets. Live bands were always a fixture on weekends.
Jackson's was popular with the locals as well as the summer visitors and some still remember the special façade built to meet blackout requirements in the early years of WWII. Slot machines reached their peak during that time and when State’s Attorney Jack Sanford cracked down on gambling in the early 1950s over 30 slots were put out of commission at Jackson's Casino.
In 1953 Jackson's became the popular pinball arcade known as the Ocean Casino - a favorite teenage gathering spot on the mid-town Boardwalk. The iconic frame building was damaged in the March Storm of 1962 and replaced by a masonry building that sits on the site today.
To purchase one of Bunk Mann’s books, click over to www.vanishingoc.com. Photo courtesy the OC Life Saving Service Museum
By Steve Green
Ravens games with friends
Smores on a bonfire
Clebe McClary’s story
A player’s emotional post-game speech
My son’s long love of ringing our church bell
A pool still warm in late September
A clean kitchen
Roasted oysters
A palm tree with Spanish moss
Light Fridays on a busy week
Teens who get they don’t know it all
The Polish American Club of Delmarva held its annual Crab Feast at Higgins Crab House on 128th Street in Ocean City on Saturday, Sept. 13. There were 125 club members and non-members in attendance. The club was established in May 1999 and serves the Polish American population of Delmarva. Regular club meetings are held the second Wednesday of each month. Pictured are some of the attendees.
by Steve Green
aking a moment to celebrate Carson, our nonverbal 15year-old sophomore with Autism.
At the risk of jinxing things, I feel a deep need to pause and reflect on where we are with Carson right now — and where he is. There’s been a noticeable shift in him over the past several months, and while I’ve always known he’s capable of amazing things, the progress we’re witnessing is nothing short of inspiring.
Every milestone he reaches feels monumental because of the path we’ve walked to get here. Our journey has never followed the typical timeline, and the victories we’re seeing now are layered with years of effort, setbacks, learning, and love.
On good days — and we’ve had more of them lately — I feel like all the energy, time, therapy sessions, IEP meetings, specialized programs, and endless research might actually be paying off. We've poured our hearts, our resources, and every ounce of our patience into helping Carson grow into his potential. And while we know this is a lifelong process, it’s so motivating and affirming to see just how far he’s come.
And make no mistake — he deserves the credit. Carson has put in the work, done the hard things, and pushed through discomfort, anxiety, and uncertainty to get where he is. I can see his determination in the way he moves through the world. He’s doing so well.
On more average days, I worry about becoming complacent — about forgetting just how much progress has been made and how much support is still needed. But those worries are usually short-lived, because the growth is impossible to ignore. Let me tell you a few stories that show what I mean:
• One of the most remarkable changes has been Carson walking himself to Sunday School. For many families, that might seem like a small, everyday thing. But for us, this is a major milestone.
For years, Pam or I would accompany Carson to the children’s area, helping him navigate the sensory overload and
the chaotic dash of kids heading off to their groups. That scene was overwhelming for him, and it usually required handholding, reassurance, and careful timing.
But now? Carson knows when it’s time to go. He gets up, walks calmly to the correct classroom, and joins the group independently. It may seem simple, but for a young man who’s spent years grappling with uncertainty, anxiety and overstimulation in social settings, this step into independence is huge. Watching him make this transition with confidence fills me with pride. His desire to belong and his trust in his surroundings are beautiful things to witness.
• TOPSoccer holds a very special place in our family’s heart. For those unfamiliar, it’s a community-based program that brings together kids with disabilities and volunteer “buddies” — typically neurotypical teens and adults who are there to encourage, guide, and play.
Pam and I have been coaching this program for years at River Soccer Club. We help lead the effort, but it’s truly a family affair. Beckett and Carson both serve as volunteers, helping us set up the field, run the activities, and clean up after every session. Carson used to be one of the players — running around with his buddy, laughing, learning the sport. A previous bond with a buddy led to that high school senior penning her college application essay about her connection with our son.
But now, he’s chosen to be a buddy. That change alone is awesome. But what really got me — and continues to get me — was the moment I saw Carson holding the hand of a young boy with Autism as they ran a warm-up lap together. It was one of those moments that stops you in your tracks. It was more than just a gesture — it was a sign of empathy, maturity, and connection.
Watching Carson guide another child along the same path he once walked — it gets me in the heart every time.
• Carson’s school routine is nothing short of ambitious — even for a neurotypical teenager. But he wants it this way, and that fact alone is worth celebrating.
Mornings start at Decatur High School, where he attends Geometry and Biology. After lunch, we take him to the
Tech School, where he’s enrolled in a Digital Audio and Video Production class. Then, on Mondays and Tuesdays, he returns to Decatur for Unified Tennis, a program that mixes students of all abilities in a welcoming and inclusive team sport setting.
This kind of schedule would be a heavy lift for most high school sophomores, but Carson isn’t just enduring it — he’s thriving. His transition to a new educational aide was smoother than we could’ve hoped for. He navigates multiple environments and expectations each day and does so with growing independence and enthusiasm.
We make sure Carson is involved in planning his schedule. He has opinions, preferences, and goals. He wants to participate, and we do everything we can to listen to him — even if he can’t express it through spoken words. His nonverbal communication is expressive when you learn to tune into it.
This isn’t just a highlight reel. There are still difficult days, challenges, and uncertainties. There are moments of regression and frustration over transition difficulties, and there always will be. But unlike in the past, those moments don’t define us anymore. They don’t derail us like they once could. We have tools now. We have a community. Most importantly, Carson has confidence.
Part of journaling this here is about taking a deep breath and celebrating. But it’s also about acknowledging the people — friends, teachers, aides, therapists, coaches, neighbors, and family — who have helped us build this foundation. You’ve made an impact, whether you know it or not. Your presence in our lives has mattered.
Carson is where he is today because of a village — and because he is so much stronger than many might assume. His progress is not linear, but it is undeniable.
Here’s to the growth, the small wins, and the quiet moments of connection and celebration.
(The writer is the executive editor of OC Today-Dispatch. He and his wife, Pamela, are proud parents of two boys. This weekly column examines their transition into parenthood and all that goes along with it. E-mail any thoughts to editor@octodaydispatch.com.)
By Dave Dalkiewicz Contributing Writer
(Sept. 19, 2025) The Ocean City Surf Club (OCSC) is one of the premier organizations in the area. It primarily serves as an advocate for surfing but also functions as a charitable, nonprofit entity.
In June of each year a gathering is held to award scholarships, furthering the education of deserving students. This year scholarships came to a total of $40,000. There is also acknowledgement of area leaders, induction of newly elected legends, and a team challenge surf contest.
The club works closely with the Ocean City Beach Patrol, providing a strong connection with the Junior Beach Patrol Program. The club also emphasizes a common safety interest, especially before 10am and after 5:30 p.m. when lifeguards are off duty and not in their stands. Incidentally, Sunday, Sept. 21, is the last day of lifeguards in stands for the 2025 season. With no more restrictions and the reduction of guards, the hopeful eye and floatation device of the surfer could become more of a factor in aiding an unfortunate swimmer in trouble.
The OCSC helps with Surfer’s Healing which is a group dedicated to helping children with autism through surfing. Surfer’s Healing comes to town every August for a one day surf camp.
In the Fall the OCSC conducts the Surf Into Integrity program with the Stephen Decatur Middle School. It consists of approximately seven weeks of once a week after school study and once a week onthe-beach surf instruction. It’s not just about surfing but teaches the students good habits, safety, and morals. Based on “The Surfer’s Code,” a book by Shaun Tomson with Patrick Moser, it consists of 12 lessons as a guide for life.
Dave Dalkiewicz is the owner of Ocean Atlantic Surf Shop in Ocean City
By Kristin Joson Contributing Writer
(Sept. 19, 2025) As the summer season winds down, so too does our series on beach and water safety.
I have really enjoyed spreading the word about beach safety each week in OC Today Dispatch. The Beach Patrol and I truly appreciate the commitment of editors Steve Green and Stewart Dobson and the opportunity to work together to get these important safety messages out to the public.
Since this is our last article of the 2025 season and the last weekend that the lifeguards will be guarding the beach, I’d like to take a moment to recap some of the most important beach safety tips to carry with you year-round.
There is no question that only swimming when lifeguards are on duty and swimming in front of a lifeguard is the basic and most important action one can take to ensure beach safety. It seems easy enough, but late in the fall season when our beach coverage is less than 18% of peak season (under 200 yards between stands in July to 1,100 yards (11 football fields) between stands after Labor Day), I keep seeing people that have not gotten the message. As our mobile units tour up
and down the beach on our ATVs, we see large numbers of people that go out to the beach and swim dead center between two lifeguards. Rip currents are unpredictable (over 2,000 rip rescues this season) and simply put, it just makes sense to be close to the expert, the lifeguard. Remember, just because you can see an SRT in the stand from several blocks away, that SRT is not able to see you well enough to know that you may need help and because of the distance, it takes that much longer to get to you if you do need our help!
Another important tip that is even more obvious than swimming near a lifeguard is learning how to swim. Learning to swim is one of the best things people can do to protect themselves from drowning. Studies show that people learn to swim best during childhood, which makes it a parent’s responsibility to make sure their children learn to swim. If someone does not know how to swim, they should not be in the ocean. Unfortunately, we have rescues where people are pulled into deeper water by a rip current to find out that the person cannot swim. Once someone begins to panic and actively drown, they generally have 10-60 seconds until the situation becomes grave. With so many currents and unknowns in the ocean, people should not be in the ocean if they do not
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know how to swim. Knowing how to swim and understanding how a rip current works will give you the needed tools to be a successful swimmer in the ocean and therefore a SAFE swimmer. Although it is not a learn to swim program, our Junior Beach Patrol program is a great way to help your children (10 and over) learn more about the ocean and develop some skills to add to the enjoyment of our ocean.
The last tip I would like to leave you with pertains to rip currents. If you find yourself caught in a rip, don’t panic or fight the current. You must swim out of the current by swimming parallel to shore and then into shore. If you are unable to swim out of the current, just float and tread water and call or wave for assistance (this is why swimming ability is critical as well as only swimming while we are on duty). An easy way to remember what to do if you find yourself being pulled away from the beach, in the “Grip of The Rip” is to remember the letters “R.I.P.”. R = Relax and do not panic (panic causes even the best swimmers to drown), I = I need help (draw attention to yourself so help can get to you), P = Swim parallel to escape the pull of the current and then swim back to safety on the beach. If you are on a guarded beach, help will be on its way.
I want to give the following WARNING one more time. the Beach Patrol strongly encourages all beach patrons to restrict any beach or water-related activ-
ities to times and locations when and where beach patrol personnel are on duty, never swim alone, always stay within the limits of your swimming ability and never rely on a flotation device in place of your swimming ability (you could suddenly lose your flotation if hit by a wave).
The Ocean City Beach Patrol, Ocean City Police Department, OC Fire and EMS, Ocean City Communications and all the public safety workers have done a tremendous job this season. Furthermore, media outlets have also been invaluable in helping the Beach Patrol serve its mission by educating the public with the use of these publications and reports. We all know that having the knowledge necessary to prepare yourself is the first step in any situation. I truly hope that you have used these articles to your benefit.
If you or someone you know (No certifications required) would like to begin the greatest adventure of a lifetime as a Surf Rescue Technician with the beach patrol for the 2026 season, visit our website at JoinBeachPatrol.com.
For more information on the Ocean City Beach Patrol and Beach safety tips you can log on to our website to get current information about the Beach Patrol as well as daily stats and current beach conditions, you can follow the Beach Patrol Instagram or “like us” on the Official OCBP Facebook page. Remember, “Keep your feet in the sand till the lifeguard’s in the stand.
ARIES – Mar 21/Apr 20
This week sharpens your focus with daily routines and well-being, Aries. It’s an excellent time to streamline your schedule, tackle neglected tasks and prioritize self-care.
TAURUS – APR 21/MAY 21
Creativity and joy are themes for you this week, Taurus. Engage in hobbies, spend time with loved ones and embrace fun pursuits. Your artistic side may be especially inspired
GEMINI – MAY 22/JUN 21
Your home and family life take center stage right now, Gemini. You might be focused on domestic projects, redecorating or spending quality time with the people you love.
CANCER – JUN 22/JUL 22
Communication is key this week, Cancer. Expect a busy social calendar. Important conversations and new learning opportunities also may pop up. Your words carry weight.
LEO – JUL 23/AUG 23
Leo, financial matters are center stage this week. This is a good time to review your budget, look for new income or make sensible investments. Your practical instincts are strong.
VIRGO – AUG 24/SEPT 22
This week is all about you, Virgo, especially if your birthday falls during these days. Focus on personal goals and self-improvement. Set strong intentions for the year ahead.
LIBRA – SEPT 23/OCT 23
It is time for rest and introspection, Libra. You might feel a need to retreat and recharge your batteries in the days to come. Pay attention to what your body is telling you.
SCORPIO – OCT 24/NOV 22
Social connections and networking are driving you right now, Scorpio. Spend time with friends or host a party so others can stop by and mingle. You also can join group events.
SAGITTARIUS – NOV 23/DEC 21
Sagittarius, your career and public image are in focus this week. Opportunities for advancement or recognition could arise. Be professional and show off your leadership skills.
CAPRICORN – DEC 22/JAN 20
Expand your horizons, Capricorn. This is a great week for learning, planning travel or exploring new hobbies. Try to step outside of your comfort zone as much as possible.
AQUARIUS – JAN 21/FEB 18
Aquarius, you might be dealing with financial arrangements or deepening a close bond with someone. Regardless, trust and vulnerability are important concepts right now.
PISCES – FEB 19/MAR 20
Personal and professional relationships are your priority this week, Pisces. It’s important to compromise and seek harmony in all you do.
By Deborah Lee Walker
Contributing Writer
Time with myself is like the tide kissing the shoreline and returning to sea. Brief but essential if clarity is to come to the forefront.
As I walk along the desolated beaches, an occasional seagull befriends me and is a reminder of the incredible miracles that are before us each and every day.
At the ripe age of 67, I realize life is a book of chapters; as one closes another opens. Questions and answers are understood. Do not get discouraged when requests of “why” are lost in the wind, the solitude of the gentle waves is a reminder this is to be.
The lack of responses is the foundation of faith. I do not know what tomorrow will bring, but it is imperative that each day is filled with purposeful intention and delicious occurrences. Cooking is a way of giving, so the menu must exceed mundaneness. I will be entertaining this weekend and grilled pork loin is the featured protein. Tradition dictates homemade apple butter as a condiment.
However, predictability does not excite the palette and I must continue my quest for a delectable side that will enhance and highlight the pork.
All of a sudden, the idea of pear butter intrigues me. Yes, the more I think about it, it will not only work but will please my guests with this creative choice. For the best pear butter, following are a few tips to consider.
Choose ripe pears with good flavor. Bartlett pears are a classic choice for their juicy and soft texture when ripe. Other good options include Bosc and Anjou.
Choose ripe but not overripe pears
to avoid a grainy texture. Since the pears cook for a long time, underripe pears will work, you just need to add extra sweeteners.
The spices are a key element when making pear butter. Pear butter is very similar to apple butter but is lighter and fruitier. As a result, warm spices such as cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and allspice are standard ingredients. But you also want to highlight ginger, lemon, orange, vanilla, and cardamom for a more complex flavor profile.
Sweetness is essential when making pear butter and brown sugar, maple syrup, or honey are good possibilities. But do not forget to add salt, believe it or not but salt enhances and balances the sweetness.
Whether to remove or leave the skins on is up for debate. Unlike apples, pear skins are much thinner and can be left on for a more rustic, less smooth texture. However, I recommend removing them for a velvety consistency.
A slow or pressure cooker are hands down the best way to cook the pears. A heavy bottomed pan is a must when cooking the pears at a low temperature for a long period of time. Once the pears are soft, using a hand-held emersion, puree the mixture and continue cooking until the mixture darkens and thickens.
If the pear butter is dark but a little soupy, add a small amount of Wondra Quick-Mixing Flour or a slurry to tighten the mixture.
Pear butter can be frozen up to six months.
In closing, if you are a fan of apple butter, you must give pear butter a try. This tasty condiment also makes great gifts. Enjoy.
4 pounds pears peeled, cored, quartered, and cut into 2-inch pieces
1 cup apple cider
1 cup orange juice
1 cup granulated sugar
½ cup packed light brown sugar
several splashes fresh lemon juice
2 teaspoons vanilla
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon ground allspice
1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1 teaspoon ground cardamom
1 teaspoon ground ginger
½ teaspoon ground cloves
¼ teaspoon kosher salt
1. Combine all of the ingredients in a heavy bottomed pot and bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer, stirring occasionally for 90 minutes.
2. Remove lid and using a handheld immersion blender, puree mixture until velvety smooth. Continue to reduce until the pear butter becomes dark and thick. Towards the end, you will have to constantly stir so the pear butter does not burn.
3. Transfer pear butter to a container and allow to cool completely. Top with tight-fitting lid and refrigerate until ready to use. Pear butter can also be frozen.
Yields approximately six cups Secret Ingredient – Predictability If life were predictable it would cease to be life, and be without flavor. Eleanor Roosevelt
* If you relish the art of cooking and entertaining, I highly recommend purchasing a hand-held emersion blender.
(The writer is the author of "An Eastern Shore Special: Recipes from the Heart.”)
47TH ANNUAL SUNFEST KITE FESTIVAL
2025
The Kite Loft, 511 Boardwalk, Ocean City, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. All are welcome to witness and participate in general kite flying, kite flying games, Bol races, candy drops and sport kite demos. Free event. http://kiteloft.com/kitefestival/sunfest-kite-festival/
FIDDLER’S CONVENTION
Historic Downtown Berlin, 124 N. Main St., 6-10 p.m. Featuring The String Buzzards (6-7:30 p.m.) and The Plate Scrapers (8-10 p.m.). Bring chairs.
FANDOM FRIDAY: MARIO VS. SONIC
Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 9 a.m.5 p.m. Drop in anytime for crafts, quizzes and discussions about the monthly topic. For ages 12-18 years. 410-524-1818, www.worcesterlibrary.org
OC MAHJONG CLUB
Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 10:30 a.m. Join in for a fun morning of playing tile Mahjong. Feel free to bring your own tile set. All adults welcome. 410-5241818, www.worcesterlibrary.org
SURVIVAL SPANISH: BASIC PHRASES
Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 1 p.m. Learn how to say basic phrases in Spanish. 410-208-4014, www.worcesterlibrary.org
BOOK OF THE MONTH: ‘THE CHELSEA GIRLS’ BY FIONA DAVIS
Oaked at The Globe/Tiki Tim’s, 12 Broad St., Berlin, 2 p.m. Copies of the book are available at the Berlin Library circulation desk. 410-641-0650, www.worcesterlibrary.org
DISCOVERY DEN AFTERSCHOOL PROGRAM
Worcester County Library - Snow Hill Branch, 307 N. Washington St., 3:304:30 p.m. Come enjoy a new topic every week. Week 1: Art Studio. Best of elementary and middle school students, but all are welcome. 410-632-3495, www.worcesterlibrary.org
FRESH PAINT: ART SHOW AND SALE
Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 4-6 p.m. Part of the Paint Worcester County Plein Air event. Free and open to the public. curator@worcestercountyartscouncil.org, 410-641-0809, www.worcestercountyartscouncil.org
MIXED MEDIA WITH SISTA BIG Worcester County Library - Pocomoke Branch, 401 Fifth St., 6 p.m. Use a variety of materials to create unique art and poetry pieces. Light refreshments. Register: 410-957-0878. www.worcesterlibrary.org
SIPPIN’ WITH SLOTHS
Coastal Wilds, 34215 Peppers Corner Road, Frankford, 6-8 p.m. Music by Brad Price. Cost is $40 and includes sloth encounter, self-guided tour, and one complementary glass of wine. Tickets: https://book.singenuity.com/469/activity/details/2284/rates. 302-829-1548
KIGHTS OF COLUMBUS BINGO
Fridays - Knights of Columbus, 9901 Coastal Highway, behind St. Luke’s Church. Doors open at 5 p.m., bingo starts at 6:30 p.m. Light snacks available before bingo and at intermission. 410524-7994
47TH ANNUAL SUNFEST KITE FESTIVAL
2025
The Kite Loft, 511 Boardwalk, Ocean City, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. All are welcome to witness and participate in general kite flying, kite flying games, Bol races, candy drops and sport kite demos. Free event. http://kiteloft.com/kitefestival/sunfest-kite-festival/
FIDDLER’S CONVENTION
Historic Downtown Berlin, 124 N. Main St., 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Featuring The High and Wides (11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.), Amateur Competition (1:30-3 p.m.) and The Clendenen Brothers All Star Band (3:305 p.m.). Bring chairs.
OCEAN PINES FALL FLEA MARKET
Ocean Pines Community Center and White Horse Park, 235 Ocean Parkway, 8 a.m.-noon. Vendors selling gently used clothing, household items, toys, jewelry, collectibles and more. Held rain or shine. Vendor spaces are $25 and include a table and two chairs. Register: 410-641-7052.
BIRD WATCHING WITH SCOTT HOUSTEN
Museum of Ocean City, 217 S. Baltimore Ave., 8-10 a.m. Meet at the Museum of Ocean City then take a guided birdwatching walk through some of the town’s best viewing spots, including the inlet, the jetty and Sunset Park. Cost is $20. ocmuseum.org
WSW YOUNG SURVIVORS CONFERENCE
Community Foundation of the Eastern Shore, 1324 Belmont Ave., Salisbury, 8:30 a.m.-noon. For breast cancer survivors around the age of 40 and younger. Register: wicomico@womensupportingwomen.org, 410-548-7880, or visit the WSW Office. Free to attend but space is limited. Comp. breakfast.
BOOK CHARACTER BASH
Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 10 a.m. Celebrate your favorite characters like Dogman and the Babysitters Club girls for Library Card month. For ages 6-11 years. 410-208-4014, www.worcesterlibrary.org
SEVENTH DAY ADVENTIST, SLIGO BY THE SEA, SUMMER MINISTRY
First Presbyterian Church of Ocean City, 1301 Philadelphia Ave., 10 a.m.-noon. Pastor Ron Halvorsen Jr. - Senior Pastor, Collegedale Church of Seventh-day Adventists, Collegedale, TN. sligochurch.org/sligobythesea, 301-2706777
STEAM MOVIE WATCH PARTY
Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 10:30 a.m. Kick off a STEAM-filled fall with a huggable robot and friends. Light snacks provided. For families. 410-524-1818, www.worcesterlibrary.org
CHICKEN BBQ SALE
St. Paul United Methodist Church, 405 Flower St., Berlin, 11 a.m. Cost is $15 for 1/2 BBQ chicken platters with two sides, roll and a drink or $12 for 1/2 BBQ chicken and roll and drink. Baked goods available. Proceeds benefit the church’s Annual Homecoming. 410-641-0270
AFRICAN AMERICAN GENEALOGY: PUTTING THE PIECES OF THE PUZZLE TOGETHER
Worcester County Library - Snow Hill Branch, 307 N. Washington St., 11 a.m. Hands-on experience that will help participants trace their family’s history and some common pitfalls that AfricanAmericans may face whilst researching. Bring laptops, photos, ect. 410-632-3495
BALLET ON THE BEACH DANCE FESTIVAL
Assateague State Park, 6915 Maryland 611, Berlin, 4-6:30 p.m. Free professional performance, 5 p.m. Open to the public. Also featuring eco talks, a literature area and art activities for children. Parking is $5 per vehicle. Rain date is Sept. 21.
ORIGINALS ONLY
Art League of Ocean City, 502 94th St., 6-8 p.m. A celebration of authentic, original expression across all creative mediums including poets, musicians & comedians. Free event. 410-524-9433, aubrey@artleagueofoceancity.org, artleagueofoceancity.org
OCEAN PINES FARMERS & ARTISANS MARKET
Saturdays - White Horse Park, 239 Ocean Parkway, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Shop for everything from fresh local produce to unique handmade artisan goods. Also featuring family-friendly activities, music and unique shopping experiences. Open to the public, year round. 410-641-7052, https://www.oceanpines.org/web/pages /farmers-artisans-market
47TH ANNUAL SUNFEST KITE FESTIVAL 2025
The Kite Loft, 511 Boardwalk, Ocean
City, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. All are welcome to witness and participate in general kite flying, kite flying games, Bol races, candy drops and sport kite demos. Free event. http://kiteloft.com/kitefestival/sunfest-kite-festival/
MARINE DEBRIS PLUNDER
White Horse Park Boat Launch, Ocean Pines, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Join MCBP and Capt. Jack by land or by sea to pick up debris in our Coastal Bays Watershed. Pre-registration and packet pickup available prior to the event. mdcoastalbays.org
REGISTRATION DEADLINE FOR 2025 MEN’S CLUB CHAMPIONSHIP
To be held Sept. 27 and 28 at the Ocean Pines Golf Club. Open to all Ocean Pines golf members and property owners ages 18+ years. Entry feee is $40. Must have established USGA handicap. 410-641-6057
ALL-YOU-CAN-EAT CRAB FEAST
Ocean Downs Casino, 10218 Racetrack Road, Berlin, 4-7 p.m. Cost is $45 and includes steamed crabs, corn on the cob, potato salad, soft drinks and $15 free play. Also cash bar, 50/50 raffle and music. Tickets: https://chamber.oceancity.org.
BERLIN FARMERS MARKET
Sundays - Pitts Street, Commerce Street and Main Street, Berlin, May through October, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., rain or shine. Producers only market featuring more than 50 farmers, food cultivators, bakers, distillers, seafood, meat and more. Also featuring a petting farm (9-11 a.m.), free kids art station and live music. TheBerlinFarmersMarket.com
SEWING FOR A CAUSE
Sundays - Buckingham Presbyterian Church, 20 S. Main St., Berlin, 10:30 a.m. to noon. Learn how to sew while making a difference. 410-641-0234
JEHOVAH’S WITNESSES MEETING
Sundays - Berlin Congregation of Jehovah’s Witnesses, 212 West St., Berlin, 10 a.m. www.jw.org
DEMOCRATIC WOMEN’S CLUB OF WORCESTER COUNTY MEETING
Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 10 a.m. Guest speaker, Leila Weah, senior reporter with WMDT, will discuss “Broadcast Media: What’s going on in the world, and how are journalists handling it?” Followed by a BYO brown bag lunch meet and greet.
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, www.worcesterlibrary.org
CASITA LINDA
Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 4:30 p.m. Learn about Hispanic culture and food with Michelle, the owner of Casita Linda in Ocean Pines. For families. 410-2084014, www.worcesterlibrary.org
T.O.P.S. OF BERLIN - GROUP #169
Mondays - Atlantic General Hospital, Conference Room 1, 9733 Healthway Drive, Berlin, 5-6:30 p.m. Take Off Pounds Sensibly is a weekly support and educational group promoting weight loss and living a healthy lifestyle. Rose Campion, 410-641-0157
BRIDGE
Mondays - Ocean City 50plus Center, 104 41st Street, Ocean City, 12:30-3:30 p.m. Reserve a spot: Tish, 410-8043971. www.Worcoa.org/oceancity
DELMARVA WOMEN’S A CAPELLA CHORUS
Mondays - Ocean Pines Community Center, 239 Ocean Parkway, 6:00-8:00 p.m. All ladies who love to sing invited. Elissa, 410-641-8050; on social media; or delmarvachorus.org.
OVEREATER’S ANONYMOUS
Mondays - Worcester County LibraryOcean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 7-8 p.m. No dues or fees. 410-459-9100
STORY TIME
Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 10:30 a.m. Story time geared for ages 0-5 years featuring seasonal themes designed to support early literacy skills with stories, songs and fingerplays. 410-641-0650, www.worcesterlibrary.org
MUSIC AND MOVEMENT
Worcester County Library - Pocomoke Branch, 401 Fifth St., 10:30 a.m. Sing silly songs, play rhythmic instruments and move to the beat. For ages 0-5 years. 410-957-0878, www.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. 410-632-3495, www.worcesterlibrary.org
OC KNITTING GROUP
Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 10:30 a.m. Do you love to knit or crochet? Bring whatever project you happen to be working on. 410-524-1818, www.worcesterlibrary.org
COLONIAL CRAFTS
Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 4:30 p.m. Create your own quill pen to take home and explore the traditional technique of tin punching. Learn how everyday items were made in the 1700s. For ages 6-11 years. 410-208-4014
BOOK DISCUSSION: ‘KIN: ROOTED IN HOPE’ BY CAROLE BOSTON WEATHERFORD
Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 5 p.m. Copies of the book are available at the library’s circulation desk. 410-524-1818, www.worcesterlibrary.org
CROSS FARMS POP-UP FARMERS MARKET
Tuesdays - Flower Street Field across from Henry Park, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Accepting Maryland Department of Agriculture FMNP (WIC & Seniors) Checks and Maryland WIC Fruit & Vegetable Checks. Also offering a "Produce Bucks" program, which doubles purchases for eligible residents. https://www.facebook.com/theberlinfarmersmarket.
BEACH HEROES-OC
Tuesdays - Volunteer beach clean-up group meets from 9-10 a.m., year-round. Trash bags, grippers and gloves provided. Check the Facebook page “Beach Heroes-OC” for weekly meeting locations. All are welcome.
JEHOVAH’S WITNESSES MEETING
Tuesdays - Berlin Congregation of Jehovah’s Witnesses, 212 West St., Berlin, 7 p.m. www.jw.org
TAKE OFF POUNDS SENSIBLY
Tuesdays - Worcester County Health Department, 9730 Healthway Drive, Berlin, 3:30-4:30 p.m. TOPS is a weekly support and education group promoting weight loss and a healthy lifestyle. 410289-4725
OC KNITTING CLUB
Tuesdays - Worcester County LibraryOcean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 10:30 a.m.
ARGENTINE TANGO PRACTICE
Tuesdays - Experienced dancers and others interested in watching or learning more are welcome, 7-9:30 p.m. No partner required. Info: TangobytheBeach.com.
ZUMBA TONING TUESDAYS
Tuesdays - Northside Park, 200 125th St., Ocean City, 5:30 p.m. Zumba with optional light weights. zumbajoyceoc@gmail.com
WEIGHT MANAGEMENT AND WELLNESS GROUP
Tuesdays - Holy Trinity Cathedral, 11021 Worcester Highway, 2-2:45 p.m. Use the weight loss program/app/plan of your choice. Free and open to everyone. 410-641-4882, www.htcanglican.org/activities.
BLUES ON THE BAY - CELEBRATE WITH US!
Macky’s Bayside Bar & Grill, 5311 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, 6-9 p.m. Live music, cocktails and heavy hors d’oeuvres benefiting the Macky & Pam Stansell House of Coastal Hospice. Tick-
ets cost $125 and include open bar. Tickets: www.coastalhospice.org/blues-onthe-bay/. 410-742-8732, 515
PLAY TIME
Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 10 a.m. Imaginative play and social interaction. For ages 0-5 years. 410-208-4014, www.worcesterlibrary.org
COFFEE & CRAFTS: BEADED JELLYFISH
Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 10:30 a.m. A new craft each month. Materials provided. Limit 30. Register: 410-5241818. www.worcesterlibrary.org
PUZZLE SWAP
Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 1-7 p.m. Bring your gently used puzzles and leave with new-to-you puzzles. Don’t have a puzzle to exchange but still want one? That’s OK too. All puzzles must be in their original boxes. 410-641-0650
TEEN BOARD GAME NIGHT
Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 4 p.m. Test your luck and your mettle against others in games like Sorry!, Hive and more. For ages 12-18 years. 410-5241818, www.worcesterlibrary.org
SERVICE SQUAD - MAKE IT MATTER
Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 4 p.m. Service hour earning program that lets participants be creative while benefiting worthy causes. Open to students of Worcester County Schools. 410-6410650, www.worcesterlibrary.org
BOUNCING CHEMISTRY
Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 4:30 p.m. Put your science skills to use creating a bouncy ball. For ages 6-11 years. 410208-4014, www.worcesterlibrary.org
FREE SQUARE DANCE LESSONS
Ocean Pines Community Center, 235 Ocean Parkway, 7-8:30 p.m. Adult singles and couples welcome. RSVP: 908229-8799.
FAMILY FUN NIGHTS
Wednesdays (through Aug. 20) - Ocean Pines Yacht Club Pool, 1 Mumford's Landing Road, 6-8 p.m. DJ, games and prizes. Food available for purchase. Admission is $3 for OP swim members, $5 for OP residents, $7 for non-residents and free for non-swimmers. Cash only. 410-641-7052, oceanpines.org
KIWANIS CLUB MEETING
Wednesdays - Ocean Pines Community Center, 239 Ocean Parkway, 8 a.m. Doors open at 7:30 a.m. Last Wednesday of the month meetings are offsite and information can be found on the website and Facebook. www.kiwanisofopoc.org.
CASH BINGO
Wednesdays - Ocean City Elks Lodge
2645, 13708 Sinepuxent Ave. Door open at 5 p.m., bingo starts at 6:30 p.m. Food available before bingo and at intermission. Open to the public. 443-605-5028
STORY TIME: FALL
Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 10:30 a.m. Songs, crafts and a story. For ages 2-5 years. 410-208-4014, www.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. 410-632-3495, www.worcesterlibrary.org
OC CHESS CLUB
Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 10:30 a.m. Enjoy a relaxing game of chess every Thursday at the library. 410-5241818, www.worcesterlibrary.org
NATURE FAKERS
Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 2 p.m. Dr. Ralph Lutts discusses John Burroughs, who, with an assist from Theodore Roosevelt, campaigned against writers who were selling embellished nature stories as nonfiction. 410-208-4014
INTRODUCTION TO SCULPTURE
Worcester County Library - Pocomoke Branch, 401 Fifth St., 2 p.m. Learn something new and try your hand at sculpting. Presented by Wocky Pots Studio. 410-957-0878, www.worcesterlibrary.org
FIRESIDE CHAT
Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 3 p.m. A book discussion featuring books participants have already read and want to share. Find your next great read. 410-6410650, www.worcesterlibrary.org
DRY PANTRY
Thursdays - St. Paul United Methodist Church, 405 Flower Street, Berlin, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. For those in need of resources such as paper products, laundry products, baby items, and personal care items. Limits apply. 410-641-0270
Crossword answers from page 52
Local new home builder looking for year round parttime experienced assistant for our West OC office. This person will be working 2-3 days per week, 8-4, and needs to be flexible to cover the office managers days off. A friendly personality, a good grasp of proper communication skills, polite phone manners, punctuality, the ability to work well with others, strong computer skills with experience in word & excel and the ability to multi-task are required. Dress is business casual and salary is negotiable based on experience. Email resume to rhresorthomes@gmail.com No Phone calls please.
CUSTOMER SERVICE
Year-round position available at Harbor Marine, Inc. West Ocean City. Must have secretarial/computer skills. Contact Monica, 410-213-2296.
St. Matthew’s by the Sea United Methodist Church in beautiful Fenwick Island is looking for a PT ORGANIST/PIANIST to join our staff! Learn more at smbts.org or call 302-537-1402.
AMERICAN LEGION
Assistant Manager, PM Shift
2 Line Cooks, Part-time. Exp. required. Apply at Post, 2308 Philadelphia Avenue or call 410-289-3166
JOLLY ROGER
Small Engine Mechanic. Ride Maintenance. Year Round. Wage starts at $15/hour & up based on experience. Benefits available. 410-289-4902
Full Time, State
This position is located in Snow Hill, Maryland. Applicants must be able to work at and travel to ALL Worcester County Health Department sites as well as travel to client homes for individual client visits. This position is part of the Communicable Disease team in the Nursing Department and will assist clients who are infected with HIV, to improve health outcomes. Assistance is provided through case management services by way of medical and social support. These job duties also include, but are not limited to assessment, individualized goal planning, linkage to resources, assisting with applications/ referrals to resources, and assisting with access to appointments for needed services to improve health outcomes. Additionally, this position will provide education for clients, the community and our staff. Home visits and participation in multidisciplinary team meetings are required. Background check required.
$58,428.00 - $74,528.00/year with potential growth to $90,709.00/year
APPLY ONLINE at www.jobapscloud.com/md by September 26, 2025.
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. 1221.
Busy office is looking for someone to help with various duties. Human Resource/payroll experience a plus. Located in Clarksville, DE. Please call for more info: 302-228-2353
Fully Furnished 2BR/2BA. Newly updated Seaway condo, 3rd floor walkup, Oceanblock. Pet/max. 4 occupants. All utilities plus basic cable and internet included. Available 10/15/31/26. $1,400 mo. (1st, last month plus $500 dep. required) 610-405-8942
JOYCEPETRAUSKAS@ GMAIL.COM
WINTER RENTAL
1BR/1BA, 140th Street. WiFi, furnished, W/D on premises. Clean, no smoking/no pets. Avail October 6-May 1. $850/mo. + sec. 302-367-5266
YR RENTAL
2BR/1BA. Avail. Nov. 1st, end unit, 2nd floor, furnished. $1,400 monthly + util. Robin Dr., OC 410-430-5316
OCEANFRONT WINTER RENTAL
2BR/2BA, furnished Condo, Avail. Oct.-Apr. Direct ocean views, balcony, parking, WiFi incl. Ideal for 2 mature adults w/strong rental history. Ocean City, Md. Contact Mary Beth 410-241-3376
Seeking YR & Seasonal Rentals! Call Howard Martin Realty 410-352-5555.
ROOMMATE HOUSESHARE
Looking for mature female to share house in Ocean Pines. Priv. Bedrooms, full use of house. $800 per mo., Incl’s all utilities. No pets, no smoking. 443-497-2332
***Prime Location***
Commercial Storage Unit West Ocean City, 10’x12’ Garage Door opening with Small office and kitchen. 1,000 sq. ft. Call 301-748-1977. Avail Oct. 1.
Contractor Shop/ Warehouse For Rent West OC. 1,000 sq.ft. w/Bathroom and HVAC. Call 443-783-2125. Industrial Space Yard and Storage Shed. Approx. 10x25+/Route 90/Bishopville. Call 443-497-4200. 2 Office/Retail Spaces available in West Ocean City. Approximately 1656 sq. ft. and 1728 sq. ft. Call 443-497-4200
SERVICES
LARRY’S HANDYMAN SERVICE
No job too small. 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
DONATIONS
Do you have an old bicycle not being used? It could mean a world of difference to a hard-working international student. We are looking to get as many
Commercial Space for Lease. ONLY 1 UNIT LEFT! 2-3 Units available, can be divided or joined. Approx. 1000 sq. ft. Busy major road in Town of Berlin. Call 443-880-8885 for more information.
CEMETARY PLOT FOR SALE
SUNSET MEMORIAL PARK
Plot # 171-C
$800 ($1,000 Value!) Rt. 50, Berlin, MD Call 410-641-1734.
Open to the Public. Saturday, SEPT. 20TH 8 AM - 1 PM FOR
ESTATE SALE: Furniture. Tools. Housewares. Books. Games. Toys. Supplies. September 20th and 21st. 8am to 2pm 33 Fort Sumter South in Ocean Pines.
www.facebook.com/OCBudgetMovers SERVICES
443-664-5797
LOCAL & EAST COAST MOVING Full Packing Service Piano Movers - Full Service
MARYLAND STATEWIDE
CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING NETWORK SERVICES
DENTAL INSURANCE from Physicians Mutual Insurance Company. Coverage for 350 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
Mystic Harbour Community Yard Sale Saturday, September 20, 2025. 9am-1pm. Located off Route 611
GLENRIDDLE COMMUNITY
YARD SALE
Planted among them, Your Love has bloomed Again, Lord! Scrapes, scars, tragedy
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
BWW Law Group, LLC
6003 Executive Blvd., Suite 101
Rockville, MD 20852
(301) 961-6555
Under a power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust dated April 26, 2024, recorded in Liber 8749, Folio 471 among the Land Records of Worcester County, MD, with an original principal balance of $133,733.00, 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 30, 2025 AT 4:05 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 $13,000 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. Pur-
chaser is responsible for obtaining physical possession of the property, and assumes risk of loss or damage to the property from the date of sale. The sale is subject to post-sale audit of the status of the loan with the loan servicer including, but not limited to, determination of whether the borrower entered into any repayment agreement, reinstated or paid off the loan prior to the sale. In any such event, this sale shall be null and void, and the Purchaser's sole remedy, in law or equity, shall be the return of the deposit without interest. If purchaser fails to settle within ten days of ratification, subject to order of court, purchaser agrees that property will be resold and entire deposit retained by Sub. Trustees as liquidated damages for all losses occasioned by the purchaser's default and purchaser shall have no further liability. The purchaser waives personal service of any papers filed in connection with its failure to settle within ten days of ratification and expressly agrees to accept service by first class mail at the address provided by the Purchaser as identified on the Memorandum of Sale. The defaulted purchaser shall not be entitled to any surplus proceeds resulting from said resale even if such surplus results from improvements to the property by said defaulted purchaser. Sub. Trustees will convey either marketable or insurable title. If they cannot deliver one or the other, or if ratification of the sale is denied by the Circuit Court for any reason, the Purchaser's sole remedy, at law or equity, is return of the deposit without interest. (Matter No. 377083-1)
Howard N. Bierman, Carrie M. Ward, et. al., Substitute Trustees
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Rosenberg & Associates, LLC
4340 East West Highway, Suite 600 Bethesda, MD 20814 (301) 907-8000 www.rosenberg-assoc.com
5719 GEORGE ISLAND LANDING ROAD STOCKTON, MD 21864
Under a power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust from Khalid A. Hindi dated November 4, 2020 and recorded in Liber 7864, folio 461 among the Land Records of Worcester County, MD, default having occurred under the terms thereof, the 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 30, 2025 AT 3:55 PM
OF GROUND, together with the buildings and improvements thereon situated in Worcester County, MD and more fully described in the aforesaid Deed of Trust. Tax ID #08-008256.
The property, which is improved by a dwelling, 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 $17,000 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 to be paid in cash within ten days of final ratification of sale by the Circuit Court for Worcester County. Interest to be paid on the unpaid purchase money at the rate pursuant to the Deed of Trust Note from the date of sale to the date funds are received in the office of the Trustees. There will be no abatement of interest in the event additional funds are tendered before settlement or if settlement is delayed for any reason. The noteholder shall not be obligated to pay interest if it is the purchaser. TIME IS OF THE ESSENCE FOR THE PURCHASER. There will be no reduction of interest due to overpayment of deposit. Adjustment of all real property taxes (excluding recapture of previously reduced or exempt taxes) and any other public charges or assessments, to the extent such amount survive foreclosure sale, including water/sewer charges, and ground rent to be adjusted to date of sale and paid at execution of the deed, except where the secured party is the purchaser, and thereafter assumed by the purchaser. All due and/or unpaid private utility, water and sewer facilities charges, condo/HOA assessments and Columbia Assoc. assessments, to the extent such amount survive foreclosure sale, are payable by the purchaser without adjustment. Cost of all documentary stamps, transfer taxes, recaptured taxes (including but not limited to agricultural taxes), and settlement expenses shall be borne by the purchaser. Purchaser shall be responsible for obtaining physical possession of the property. Purchaser assumes the risk of loss or damage to the property from the date of sale forward. Additional terms to be announced at the time of sale.
If the Trustees are unable to convey good and marketable title, the purchaser's sole remedy in law and equity shall be limited to a refund of the deposit without interest. If the purchaser fails to go to settlement, subject to order of the court, the entire deposit (including any amount received over the advertised deposit amount) shall be forfeited to the Trustees as liquidated damages for all losses occasioned by the purchaser's default and purchaser shall have no further liability. In the event of a resale, the defaulting purchaser shall not be entitled to receive the surplus, if any, even if such surplus results from improvements to the property by said defaulting purchaser and the defaulting purchaser shall be liable to the Trustees and secured party for reasonable attorney’s
fees and expenses incurred in connection with all litigation involving the Property or the proceeds of the resale. Defaulting purchaser waives personal service of any document filed in connection with such a motion on him/herself and/or any principal or corporate designee, and expressly agrees to accept service of any such document by regular mail directed to the address provided by said purchaser at the time of the foreclosure auction. Trustees' file number 25-004043-MD-F-2. Diane S. Rosenberg, Mark D. Meyer, et al., Trustees
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Mayor & City Council Ocean City, Maryland
B04-26 – Convention Center Landscaping Installation
The Mayor & City Council of Ocean City is seeking Proposals from qualified and experienced Vendors to provide for the Convention Center Landscaping Installation and for said work to conform with the Proposal Documents.
BID Documents for the Convention Center Landscaping Installation 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 Proposal Document received through any thirdparty service. Vendors are responsible for ensuring the completeness and accuracy of their Completed Proposal Documents.
A pre-proposal meeting will be held on WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 27TH, 2025 AT 10:00AM, IN THE CONVENTION CENTER CONFERENCE ROOM, 1ST FLOOR, 4001 COASTAL HIGHWAY, OCEAN CITY, MARYLAND 21842. The last day for questions will be on THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 18TH, 2025 AT 4:00PM. Addendum will be posted by close of business on FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 19TH, 2025. Sealed BID Documents are due no later than MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 29TH, 2025, BY 4:00PM. 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 30TH, 2025, AT 1:00PM. BID’s are to be submitted to the Mayor and City Council, Attention: City Clerk; Room 230, 301 North Baltimore Avenue, Ocean City, MD 21842, and the name of the Solicitation (Convention Center Landscaping Installation) 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.
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The Worcester County Commissioners will conduct a public hearing and will receive public comment on the following map amendment on Tuesday, October 7, 2025, at 10:30 AM in the Worcester County Government Center, Room 1101, One West Market Street, Snow Hill, Maryland:
Rezoning Case No. 451, filed by Hugh Cropper on behalf of Richard and Elizabeth Smithson, property owners, for an amendment to the Official Zoning Maps to change approximately 150 acres of land located on the north side of Public Landing Road (MD Route 365), west of Outten Road, Snow Hill, in the Second Tax District of Worcester County, Maryland, from E-1 Estate District to A-1 Agricultural District.
A copy of the file on Rezoning Case No. 451 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
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BWW Law Group, LLC 6003 Executive Blvd., Suite 101 Rockville, MD 20852
ANDREW J. BRENNER, et. al. 6003 Executive Blvd., Suite 101 Rockville, MD 20852
Substitute Trustees
Plaintiffs vs.
BILLY RAY BROCATO (DECEASED)
1921 North Old Mill Drive Pocomoke City, MD 21851
Defendant(s) IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR WORCESTER COUNTY, MARYLAND
Case No. C-23-CV-25-000104
NOTICE
Notice is hereby given this 29th day of August, 2025, by the Circuit Court for Worcester County, Maryland, that the sale of the property mentioned in these proceedings and described as 1921 North Old Mill Drive, Pocomoke City, MD 21851,
made and reported by the Substitute Trustee, will be RATIFIED AND CONFIRMED, unless cause to the contrary thereof be shown on or before the 6th day of October, 2025, 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 29th day of September, 2025.
The report states the purchase price at the Foreclosure sale to be $210,125.00.
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-9/4/3t
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 20810 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF JOHN HAROLD FREEBERGER
Notice is given that Diane Edwards, 10405 Saratoga Ln., Berlin, MD 21811-2724, was on August 25, 2025 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of John Harold Freeberger who died on July 20, 2025, with a will.
Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal representative or the attorney.
All 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 25th day of February, 2026.
Any person having a claim against the decedent must present the claim to the undersigned personal representative or file it with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates:
(1) Six months from the date of the decedent’s death; or
(2) Two months after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claims within two months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. A claim not presented or filed on or before that date, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter. Claim forms may be obtained from the Register of Wills.
Diane Edwards 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 4, 2025 OCD-9/4/3t
BAKER DONELSON S SCOTT TATE ESQ. 100 LIGHT ST., FL. 19 BALTIMORE, MD 21202-1153
OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE ESTATE NO. 20681
NOTICE IS GIVEN that the Circuit court of Polk County, Florida appointed Alma G. Wray, 273 Alpine Dr., Winter Haven, FL 33881-9553 as the Personal Representative of the Estate of Robert E. Wray who died on November 13, 2023 domiciled in Florida, USA.
The name and address of the Maryland resident agent for service of process is S. Scott Tate Esq., 100 Light St., Fl. 19, Baltimore, MD 21202-1153.
At the time of death, the decedent owned real or leasehold property in the following Maryland counties: Worcester County.
All persons having claims against the decedent must file their claims with the Register of Wills for Worcester County with a copy to the foreign personal representative on or before the earlier of the following dates:
(1) Six months from the date of the decedent’s death; or
(2) Two months after the foreign personal representative mails or delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claim within two months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. Claims filed after that date or after a date extended by law will be barred.
Alma G. Wray
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 11, 2025 OCD-9/11/3t
HEATHER R. KONYAR, ESQ. COCKEY, BRENNAN & MALONEY, P.C. 313 LEMMON HILL LN. SALISBURY, MD 21801-4238
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 20818
TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF PAUL ANTHONY DERITO
Notice is given that Kathleen M. Conetta, 25 Burr Hall Rd., Middlebury, CT 06762-1402, was on August 29, 2025 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Paul Anthony Derito who died on July 13, 2025, with a will.
Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal representative or the attorney.
All 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 28th day of February, 2026.
Any person having a claim against the decedent must present the claim to the undersigned personal representative or file it with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates: (1) Six months from the date of the decedent’s death; or (2) Two months after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claims within two months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. A claim not presented or filed on or before that date, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter. Claim forms may be obtained from the Register of Wills.
Kathleen M. Conetta 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 11, 2025
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NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 20811 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF ROBERT LEE RUTHRAUFF Notice is given that Harold Charles Ruthrauff, 5222 Fort McCord Rd., Chambersburg, PA 172020525, was on August 29, 2025 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Robert Lee Ruthrauff who died on August 13, 2025, with a will.
Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal representative or the attorney.
All 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 28th day of February, 2026.
Any person having a claim against the decedent must present the claim to the undersigned personal representative or file it with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates:
(1) Six months from the date of the decedent’s death; or
(2) Two months after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claims within two
months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. A claim not presented or filed on or before that date, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter. Claim forms may be obtained from the Register of Wills.
Harold Charles Ruthrauff 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 11, 2025
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS
Estate No. 20812
TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF RALPHIEL PHILLIPS
HARRISON
AKA: RALPHIEL P. HARRISON
Notice is given that Gregory T. Harrison, 8927 Day Lilly Ct., Fairfax, VA 22031-1464, was on August 28, 2025 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Ralphiel Phillips Harrison who died on August 13, 2025, with a will.
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NOTICE TO CREDITORS
NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS
Estate No. 20817 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF HARVEY F. ROTH
Notice is given that Linda Roth, 7227 Etonian Ct., Pittsville, MD 21850-2090, was on August 28, 2025 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Harvey F. Roth who died on August 22, 2025, with a will. Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal representative or the attorney.
All 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 28th day of February, 2026.
Any person having a claim against the decedent must present the claim to the undersigned personal representative or file it with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates:
(1) Six months from the date of the decedent’s death; or
(2) Two months after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claims within two months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. A claim not presented or filed on or before that date, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter. Claim forms may be obtained from the Register of Wills.
Linda Roth 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 11, 2025
above property within 30 days of this notice.
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PETER S. BUAS, ESQ. WILLIAMS, MOORE, SHOCKLEY & HARRISON, LLP 3509 COASTAL HIGHWAY OCEAN CITY, MD 21842
TO
OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVES ESTATE NO. 20824
tative or the attorney.
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 12th day of MARCH, 2026.
Any person having a claim against the decedent must present the claim to the undersigned personal representative or file it with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates:
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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 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 28th day of February, 2026.
Any person having a claim against the decedent must present the claim to the undersigned personal representative or file it with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates:
(1) Six months from the date of the decedent’s death; or
(2) Two months after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claims within two months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. A claim not presented or filed on or before that date, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter. Claim forms may be obtained from the Register of Wills.
Gregory T. Harrison 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 11, 2025
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Notice is hereby given that the following vessel has apparently been abandoned for 180 days, on the property of: JOHN E. FINK, 7626 OLD OCEAN CITY RD., WHALEYVILLE, MD 21813. 443-3650060. The vessel is described as a 2000 ANGLER, NAMED ANGLER 18 FT IN LENGTH, WHITE with BLACK STRIPES Type of Boat: OPEN Hull ID #ANGB1090L900 Application for the title will be made in accordance with Section 8-722 of the annotated code of Maryland Natural Resources Article. If this vessel is not claimed and removed from the
NOTICE IS GIVEN that the ORPHAN'S court of YORK, PENNSYLVANIA appointed LORI HATTERER whose address is PO BOX 5 80 W MAPLE STREET EAST PROSPECT, PA 17317-0005 as the PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE of the Estate of ROBERT G COOK who died on JANUARY 03, 2025 domiciled in PENNSYLVANIA, USA
The name and address of the Maryland resident agent for service of process is PETER S BUAS whose address is 3509 COASTAL HWY OCEAN CITY, MD 21842-3334. At the time of death, the decedent owned real or leasehold property in the following Maryland counties: WORCESTER
All persons having claims against the decedent must file their claims with the Register of Wills for WORCESTER COUNTY with a copy to the foreign personal representative on or before the earlier of the following dates:
(1) Six months from the date of the decedent's death; or
(2) Two months after the foreign personal representative mails or delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claim within two months from the mailing or delivery of the notice. Claims filed after that date or after a date extended by law will be barred.
TERRI WESTCOTT, Register of Wills for WORCESTER COUNTY ONE W MARKET STREET ROOM 102 - COURT HOUSE SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1074 OCD-9/18/3t
PETER S. BUAS, ESQ. WILLIAMS, MOORE, SHOCKLEY & HARRISON, LLP 3509 COASTAL HIGHWAY OCEAN CITY, MD 21842
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS
To all persons interested in the estate of LARRY ELLIS HOLDREN Estate No. 20826 Notice is given that CARRIE KAY HOLDREN SERRELL whose address is 933 WHISPERING RIDGE LN BEL AIR, MD 21015-2102 was on SEPTEMBER 12, 2025 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of LARRY ELLIS HOLDREN who died on AUGUST 29, 2025 with a will. Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal represen-
(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-9/18/3t
Housing Inspection Services REBID
Worcester County is seeking proposals from qualified Vendors to contract for housing inspection services for the Worcester County Housing Rehabilitation Program in conformity with the requirements contained herein Proposal Documents. Proposal Documents for the above referenced project may be obtained from the Worcester County Commissioner’s Office by either e-mailing the Procurement Officer, Nicholas Rice, at nrice@co.worcester.md.us or by calling 410-632-1194 during normal business hours, or via the County’s Bids page on the County’s website. Vendors are responsible for checking this website for addenda prior to submitting their bids. Worcester County is not responsible for the content of any Proposal Document received through any thirdparty bid service. It is the sole responsibility of the vendor to ensure the completeness and accuracy of their Completed Proposal Documents.
The last day for questions will be noon on Wednesday, September 24, 2025. Sealed Proposal Documents are due no later than 2:30 pm on Thursday, October 2, 2025, and will be opened and only vendor names will be read aloud in the Office of the County Commissioners, Worcester County Government Center – Room 1103, One West Market Street, Snow Hill, Maryland 21863. Late Proposal Documents will not be accepted.
Envelopes shall be marked " Proposal Solicitation – Housing Inspection Services” in the lower left-hand
Minority vendors are encouraged to compete for the award of solicitation.
Nicholas W. Rice, CPPO, CPPB, NIGP-CPP Procurement Officer Worcester County, Maryland
OCD-9/18/1t
RFQ # 2025-01
General On-Call Engineering Services
Due: Friday, October 10, 2025 Time: 3:00 PM EST
The Town of Berlin is seeking Statement of Qualifications for General On-Call Engineering Services. Qualified firms are encouraged to visit the Town of Berlin website at berlinmd.gov/government/requestfor-proposals/for the official RFQ. Sealed submissions will be accepted until 3:00 PM on Friday, October 10, 2025. EEO.
RFQ # 2025 – 02
On-Call Stormwater Engineering Services
Due: Friday, October 10, 2025 Time: 3:15 PM EST
The Town of Berlin is seeking Statement of Qualifications for OnCall Stormwater Engineering Services. Qualified firms are encouraged to visit the Town of Berlin website at berlinmd.gov/government/requestfor-proposals/for the official RFQ. Sealed submissions will be accepted until 3:15 PM on Friday, October 10, 2025.
OCD-9/18/1t
Pursuant to the provisions of Chapter 2 Administration, Article IV, Division 5 of the Code of the Town of Ocean City, Maryland hereinafter referred to as Code, same being the Board of Adjustments and Appeals Ordinance for Ocean City, Maryland, notice is hereby given that public hearing will be conducted in the Council Chambers of City Hall located at 301 Baltimore Avenue, Ocean City, Maryland.
The motor vehicles described below have been abandoned. The owners and lien holders are hereby informed of their right to reclaim the vehicles upon payment of all charges and costs resulting from the towing, preservation, and storage of the vehicles.
The failure of the owners or lien holders to reclaim the vehicles within three weeks of notification shall be deemed a waiver by the owners or lien holders of all rights, title and interest and thereby consent to the sale of the vehicles at public auction or to have it otherwise disposed of in a manner provided by law.
These three weeks of notification begins on DATE: 9/19/2025
All vehicles will be sold at auction on-line at www.govdeals.com. For details call 410-723-6643.
AUTH: Raymond J Austin Chief of Police
Wednesday, October 1, 2025 At 3:00 PM
BAAV 25-076 A request has been submitted for a variance from TOC Code Section 38-71(a)(5) West of Coastal Highway, to reduce the minimum 3’ freeboard elevation requirement above the AE-6 flood zone for substantial improvement of an existing townhouse unit. Locally known as 431 BAYSHORE DR UNIT C, tax parcel number 112-20-5437, lot #209C.
OWNER: Sang D. Partington
APPLICANT: Harry B. How 3rd, P.E.
BAAV 25-077 A request has been submitted for an after the fact variance from TOC Code Section 38-71 (a)(5) west of Philadelphia Avenue to reduce the minimum 3’ freeboard elevation requirement above the A-5 flood zone for construction of a new Ocean City Skate Bowl administrative building. Locally known as 300 ST LOUIS AVE parcel number 4054 -9 -0110-031486
APPLICANT/OWNER: Mayor and City Council of the Town of Ocean City
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VICTOR A. LEMBO SIMS & CAMPBELL LLC
181 HARRY S. TRUMAN PKWY., STE. 150
ANNAPOLIS, MD 21401-7565
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 20628 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF YOKO WALKER
Notice is given that David G. Walker, 10128 52nd Ave., College
Park, MD 20740-1124, was on September 11, 2025 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Yoko Walker who died on January 19, 2025, with a will.
Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal representative or the attorney.
All 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 11th day of March, 2026.
Any person having a claim against the decedent must present the claim to the undersigned personal representative or file it with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates:
(1) Six months from the date of the decedent’s death; or
(2) Two months after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claims within two months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. A claim not presented or filed on or before that date, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter. Claim forms may be obtained from the Register of Wills.
David G. Walker
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 18, 2025
OCD-9/18/3t
NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS
To all persons interested in the estate of SHIRLEY J. TINGLE Estate No. 20821 Notice is given that BARBARA ELIZABETH TINGLE whose address is 6 NW 4TH ST., MILFORD, DE 19963-1412 was on SEPTEMBER 09, 2025 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of SHIRLEY J. TINGLE who died on JUNE 10, 2025 with a will. Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal representative or the attorney.
All 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, 2026
Any person having a claim against the decedent must present the claim to the undersigned personal representative or file it with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates:
(1) Six months from the date of the decedent's death; or
(2) Two months after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claims within two months from the mailing or other de-
livery 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-9/18/3t
SMALL ESTATE NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE NO. 20814 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF PHOEBE FRANCES HELMAN
Notice is given that William Johnson, 11438 Gum Point Rd., Berlin, MD 21811-3171, was on September 08, 2025 appointed personal representative of the small estate of Phoebe Fraces Helman who died on August 13, 2025, with a will.
Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal representative or the attorney.
All persons 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.
William Johnson 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 18, 2025
OCD-9/18/1t
IN THE ORPHANS’ COURT FOR (OR) BEFORE THE REGISTER OF WILLS FOR WORCESTER COUNTY, MARYLAND
IN THE ESTATE OF: FRANK LANTELLA
ESTATE NO. 20825
OF JUDICIAL PROBATE
To all Persons Interested in the above estate:
You are hereby notified that a petition has been filed by Leonora Lantella, 2525 Scravel Road, Myersville, MD 21773 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 28, 2025 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 18, 2025
OCD-9/18/2t
RE: Issuance of General Obligation Municipal Purpose Bonds
Notice is hereby given by the Mayor and City Council of Ocean City, that Ordinance 2025-25 was introduced for first reading at their meeting of September 15, 2025. Second reading is scheduled October 6, 2025. A complete text of the ordinance is available for review in the Office of the City Clerk, City Hall 3rd Street and Baltimore Avenue, Ocean City, MD 21842, or online at oceancitymd.gov in the September 15, 2025, agenda packet. This ordinance authorizes the Mayor and Council to issue and sell General Obligation Bonds not to exceed FiftyTwo Million Dollars ($52,000,000) for wastewater influent headworks improvements, golf course tidal flooding remediation, water radioread meters, 14th Street generator (water), fleet/garage renovations and new boardwalk signage.
OCD-9/18/1t
REENA J. PATEL ESQ. LAW OFFIC OF MARIANNA BATIE 1321 MOUNT HERMON RD., STE. B SALISBURY, MD 21804-5303
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT
NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 20820 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF PAULINE J. ELLIOTT
Notice is given that Jerome Wood, 12249 Snug Harbor Rd., Berlin, Md 21811-2617 and John Wood, 5 LaFayette Way, Monongahela, PA 15063-3506, were on September 09, 2025 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Pauline J. Elliott who died on May 06, 2025, with a will.
Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal represen-
tative or the attorney.
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, 2026.
Any person having a claim against the decedent must present the claim to the undersigned personal representative or file it with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates:
(1) Six months from the date of the decedent’s death; or
(2) Two months after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claims within two months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. A claim not presented or filed on or before that date, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter. Claim forms may be obtained from the Register of Wills.
Jerome Wood John Wood Personal Representatives True Test Copy Terri Westcott Register of Wills for Worcester County One W. Market Street Room 102 - Court House Snow Hill, MD 21863-1074
Name of newspaper designated by personal representative: Ocean City Digest
Date of publication: September 18, 2025
OCD-9/18/3t
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS
Estate No. 20823 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF CHARLES WALTER HINZ
Notice is given that Kenneth W. Hinz, 6848 Bent Grass Dr., Naples, FL 34113-2658, was on September 10, 2025 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Charles Walter Hinz who died on September 03, 2025, with a will.
Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal representative or the attorney.
All 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 10th day of March, 2026.
Any person having a claim against the decedent must present the claim to the undersigned personal representative or file it with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates:
(1) Six months from the date of the decedent’s death; or
(2) Two months after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written no-
tice, 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.
Kenneth W. Hinz
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 18, 2025
OCD-9/18/3t
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 Planning and Zoning Commission 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: Tuesday, October 7, 2025 AT 6:00 PM
Pursuant to the provisions of Sections 110-544, Uses permitted by conditional use in the Shopping Center SC-1 District, and 110-514, Uses permitted by conditional use in the Local Commercial LC-1 District, an application has been filed to renew the previously approved Conditional Use for the operation of a water taxi business (a/k/a OC Bay Hopper) to include a ticketing and sales office and the docking of water taxi boats within the Shopping Center SC-1 District. The property is described as Lot 2 and Revised Lot 1, Section 2, of the Caine Harbor Mile Plat. It is further described as being located on the west side of Coastal Highway and is locally known as 11703 Coastal Highway, in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.
APPLICANT: STEVEN BUTZ (PZ FILE #25-12100002)
Further information concerning the public hearings may be examined in the office of the Department of Planning and Community Development in City Hall.
Joseph Wilson, Chairman
Maureen Howarth, Attorney
By Lauren Bunting Contributing Writer
(Sept. 19, 2025) VantageScore 4.0 is the latest credit scoring model being used by the three major credit bureaus. Data shows it’s a better predictor of mortgage readiness than the traditional FICO score.
National Association of Realtors Chief Economist Lawrence Yun recently stated VantageScore 4.0 is good news for financially responsible renters hoping to buy.
Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA) announced this past summer that Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac will begin accepting VantageScore 4.0 for mortgage underwriting. This change hopes to create more qualified borrowers by modernizing credit scoring models in addition to the traditional FICO score.
VantageScore 4.0 includes additional data points—such as rental, utility, and telecom payments—in the
credit report, rewarding borrowers for making timely payments. These other data points have traditionally been excluded from credit reports.
NAR has long advocated for the modernization of the credit scoring system, including the use of additional data points, to help borrowers—especially those with limited credit. The change gives potential homebuyers an extra boost that can either qualify them for a mortgage or lower the cost of the loan. This added resource is something that NAR’s Advocacy team has been pushing for and they applaud its roll out.
Yun stated, “The financially responsible renters should get a positive score from using VantageScore 4.0, so in addition to the FICO score, the enlargement of this new credit requirement will lead to more first time buyers coming into the market. Great news for financially responsible people in America.
Lauren Bunting is Broker of Record with Keller Williams Realty of Delmarva in Ocean City, Maryland.
By Steve Green
Executive Editor
By Bethany Hooper
Associate Editor
(Sept. 19, 2025) A change in state law will give Ocean City officials an opportunity to increase fines and penalties for misdemeanors and municipal infractions.
Last week, the City Council agreed to follow staff recommendations to increase fine amounts for some offenses and to seek input from department heads on several other penalties.
In this week’s meeting packet was an extensive summary of the changes, showing the current fines with staff recommendations. In some cases, city officials support moving to the state’s standard while in other cases staff suggest a bit more grace with fines.
City Solicitor Heather Stansbury said an increase in fine amounts follows the passage of a recent state law, which gives local governments the opportunity to increase the maximum penalties for violations of municipal laws.
“Additionally, some time ago – not as a result of this particular legislation – local governments were also given the right to increase the period of imprisonment, up to six months,” she told the council. “And in some places in your code, it’s a lesser amount than that.”
With two changes at the state level, Stansbury last week sought the council’s approval to increase most fines and penalties to align with state law. If approved, the maximum fine for civil infractions would increase to $5,000, and the maximum penalty
for misdemeanors would increase to $5,000 and up to six months’ imprisonment.
“We’d like to talk about what penalties you want to increase to $5,000 and what penalties you want to increase to six months,” she said. However, Stansbury said staff did not recommend increasing penalties for all offenses. She noted that some, such as the improper disposal of trash or the unlawful use of a personal assisted mobility device, could have lower penalties.
“If you unlawfully use an elec-
Saturrdday 10am-Noon 1404 N. Str
Saturrdday 11am-1pm 609 Bayshor
Saturrdday 11am-1pm
Saturrdday 11am-1pm Dr
Saturrdday 11am-1pm
Saturrdday 11am-1pm 6 Duck Cir
Saturrdday 11am-2pm 11204 Sat &
Saturrdday Noon-2pm 11900 Hwy
Saturrdday 1-3pm 124 Cir
Saturrdday 1:30-3:30pm 429 Bayshor
tronic personal assisted mobility device … it is an infraction,” she said in one example. “It carries a penalty of $500, and we’re recommending that that be increased to $1,000. Alternatively, you could suggest that be increased to $5,000.”Stansbury said staff also deferred to several department heads to give recommendations on certain penalties. She said those recommendations could be included in a forthcoming ordinance.
“The thought is we’d bring this back to you at a first reading,” she said.
At Monday’s council meeting, Stansbury clarified the changes are not ready for first reading, as more discussion was needed. She expects to have an extensive ordinance available for first reading at an upcoming meeting.
“What you will have at your next regular council meeting is a substantial code rewrite. This started as a small project, and it’s morphed into a really very necessary code cleanup. … You will have about a 46-page ordinance, maybe a little longer. I think it’s going to streamline a lot of things, most importantly for your police officers.”
Stansbury said “over the years a list of misdemeanors and a list of municipal infractions were being added. But over time sometimes the list was not being updated when a specific
code section got updated.”
Stansbury said the goal is to have a specific easily identifiable code violation and to detail “painstakingly” each offense.
Stansbury added she was also seeking the council’s recommendation on penalties for those who violate campaign finance law.
“Presently, if you violate that section of the code and fail to report your campaign finances appropriately, it’s an infraction not to exceed $1,000,” she explained. “Because that impacts you directly, we have suggested that we defer to council. So, your options would be to keep it the same, or to take it up to $5,000 or to make it some amount in between.”
After further discussion last week, the council voted unanimously to follow staff recommendations by increasing the maximum municipal fine amount from $1,000 to $5,000 and deferring to various department heads for recommendations as to penalties for other offenses.
However, during this week’s meeting, Stansbury clarified the issue, stating state law on campaign finance law states the infraction not to exceed $1,000. After a question from Council President Matt James whether that would change Oct. 1, Stansbury reported to the council the $1,000 fine will stay in effect and the recom-
mendation is to let the city clerk’s office manage the violations.
Another example of the city not going as far as state law allows was with outdoor display of merchandise violations on the Boardwalk. Currently, the first violation is a fine of $500 with second violation a fine of $1,000 and third violation another $1,000 fine. Staff recommends leaving the fines the same with the third violation bringing the $5,000 sting.
Those who are cited for smoking on public property, such as the Boardwalk, are subject to a $500 fine. Police Chief Ray Austin is recommending that punishment remain as is under the revised code.
Noise violations, however, would be increased for “Residences Providing Shelter to Transient or Temporary Population,” — or renters or guests — from a maximum $1,000 to $5,000.
The same applies to “Offenses Involving Public Nudity or State of Nudity,” not that cases of overexposure are all that prevalent. Still, anyone caught with their pants or tops down would face a fine of up to $5,000.
After little discussion Monday night, Councilman Tony DeLuca motioned to move the changes to first reading with a second by Councilman Jake Mitrecic. The council vote was unanimous.
(Sept. 19, 2025) Ondrea Starzhevskiy has been named the new deputy finance officer for Worcester County government, the county commissioners announced this week.
Starzhevskiy brings to this position 14 years of accounting expertise. Her experience in municipal finance, strategic budgeting, and intergovernmental coordination align well with the county’s financial leadership goals, the county’s statement said.
“Ondrea has a strong background working with government funds including working with enterprise funds and updating enterprise resource planning systems, and she possesses strong
leadership skills, all of which make her ideally qualified to manage the team in the treasurer’s office and work with our key stakeholders,” Commissioner President Ted Elder said.
Prior to joining Worcester County, Starzhevskiy was the director of finance for Easton Public Schools in North Easton, Massachusetts from 2022 to present and director of finance for the City of Arcata, California from 2018 to 2022.
Throughout her career, she has led efforts in long-term financial planning, budget development, grant compliance, and financial reporting, ensuring full compliance with local, state, and federal regulations.
“My experience managing large, public-sector budgets and navigating complex funding structures has equipped me with the insight and skills to contribute effectively to Worcester County’s financial operations,” Starzhevskiy said.
“My connection to the lower Eastern Shore, particularly the Public Landing area where my mom grew up, dates back four generations. I’m thankful for the opportunity to put these skills to work in the place I call home. I appreciate the confidence the county commissioners have placed in me, and I’m looking forward to contributing in a meaningful way to the County and its residents.”
Starzhevskiy earned a Bachelor of Science in management, with a concentration in accounting from the University of Massachusetts at Boston in 2010 and master’s degree in accounting from Babson College in 2011.
The deputy finance officer assists the finance officer in planning, organizing, coordinating, and directing the functions and activities of the treasurer’s office.
TidalHealth has announced the opening of its newest location, TidalHealth Pediatric Development & Therapy, at 2326 Goodard Parkway, Salisbury, MD 21801.
With two convenient locations in Millsboro, Del. and Salisbury, TidalHealth Pediatric Development & Therapy provides compassionate, individualized care for children through ABA, occupational, and speech therapy in a state-of-the-art clinic.
Their skilled team supports children with diverse needs, including autism, ADHD, Down syndrome, cerebral palsy and developmental delays. With innovative equipment, tailored environments, and purposeful play, we help children build essential skills for daily life, communication, and learning, empowering them to reach their full potential.
For more information about services provided at TidalHealth Pediatric Development & Therapy or to schedule an evaluation, visit tidalhealth.org/pdt. To contact the Salisbury office, call 443-978-6022. To contact the Millsboro office, call 443-978-6020
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By Tara Fischer Staff Writer
(Sept. 19, 2025) A true story of adventure and family history come together in a soon-to-be published book by an Eastern Shore author, who will preside over a launch party at the Atlantic Hotel in Berlin.
On Sunday, Sept. 28, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m local author Barbara Lockhart will meet her readers and sign copies of her new book, “Half Pass Six.” Per Lockhart’s official website, the work is described as the writer’s “memoir and biography of her father, who was on board during the famous expedition to the South Seas by William Beebe in 1925.”
“Half Pass Six” is set to release on Tuesday, Sept. 23 by regional company Secant Publishing. The book is available now for preorder on Amazon.
Lockhart’s story recounts the exploits of her father, Willi Rohrbein, a young boy struggling in a post-World War I Germany, who, in 1925, gets the chance to work as a mess boy on a scientific expedition led by Beebe, an explorer, marine biologist, and ornithologist.
The trip included discovering and cataloging thousands of new plant and animal specimens, exploring the ocean, and, according to the book’s official description on Amazon, “seal the case for Darwin’s theory of evolution.”
In 1958, the synopsis continues, Rohrbein, now a Long Island, New York resident and a legal United States citizen, receives an original edition of “The Arcturus Adventure,” a bestseller published in 1926 by Beebe as a Christmas gift from his daughter.
“[Rohrbein] had always admired, almost worshipped Beebe, but had little comprehension of the scientific breakthroughs happening on a weekly, sometimes daily and hourly, basis, in the Galapagos expedition that Beebe led and [Rohrbein] served as mess boy,” the summary reads.
“Now [Rohrbein] gets it, as he spends his evenings reading slowly chapter by chapter, reliving old sights and episodes as if they had happened only yesterday and realizing for the first time why they were significant.”
Residents and visitors of Berlin and the surrounding areas are invited to the book launch on Sept. 28. Here, Lockhart will greet readers and sign copies of her historical and personal story.
“I have been meaning to write this book probably all my life, and I finally got to it,” the writer said. “These were stories over the kitchen table…As I got older, I started to realize the importance of [Beebe’s] expedition and what it meant to the sciences, but also
to my father. It changed his life, and it changed my life.”
The author was born in New York, but is a longtime Eastern Shore resident, having moved to the area around 1968. Lockhart lives in Dorchester County. Here, she served 25 years as a kindergarten teacher, and now spends her time writing books, many of which focus on Eastern Shore history.
Previous works include “Elizabeth’s Field,” a story about a free black population living on Maryland’s Eastern Shore, an area known for being the birthplace of Harriet Tubman. Lockhart said she was inspired by the fact that a free black woman owned her farm in Dorchester.
“Elizabeth’s Field,” published in 2013, won a silver medal in the Independent Publisher Book Awards for Regional Fiction.
Additionally, Lockhart has written two collections of short stories, as well as her first novel, released in 2002, “Requiem for a Summer Cottage,” which is set on Maryland’s Eastern Shore in the 1970s and 1980s.
Furthermore, Lockhart has authored children’s books, including “Once a Pony Time at Chincoteague.”
Lockhart’s work has been cele-
brated for its excellence. The author has received two Maryland Arts Council Awards for excerpts from “Requiem for a Summer Cottage,” as well as sections from her short stories. Another of her short story collections, “The Night is Young,” was nominated as a Finalist in the National Indie Excellence Awards.
Lockhart’s family is entrenched in the arts. According to Ron Sauder, publisher at Secant, the author’s son, Paul Lockhart, sculpted the marlin that greets Ocean City tourists once they make it across the Route 50 bridge. Lynne Lockhart, the writer’s daughter, is a successful painter in Worcester County who prioritizes local scenes.
Lockhart added that her youngest son is musically gifted and, for a long time, had a regular gig playing the guitar in Ocean City.
“Half Pass Six” will be available for purchase next week, followed by a book launch in downtown Berlin on Sept. 28. Secant Publishing, an independent publishing company that takes on stories and authors with a connection to the region, is the official publisher of the work.
Lockhart’s new book is currently available for preorder at https://www.amazon.com/HalfPass-Six/dp/B0FJ8VSB81/.
By Tara Fischer Staff Writer
(Sept. 19, 2025) The Worcester County Board of Education unanimously approved hiring a construction manager to oversee the Buckingham Elementary School replacement project, pushing that undertaking closer to officially breaking ground.
At its meeting this week, the school board approved a contract, for $3,075,294 with Keller Brothers Inc., a Maryland-based company that will act as the BES rebuild’s construction manager. Keller Brothers will be responsible for providing preconstruction, construction, and postconstruction services to the school replacement project.
School board member Jon Andes, who once service as the superintendent of schools for Worcester, asked if Keller Brothers has any previous experience in building schools on the Eastern Shore. The school system’s maintenance and operations manager, Sam Slacum, assured him and the board that the firm is wellequipped to take on the BES work.
“Keller Brothers have not been involved in building a new school; however, they have been involved in several contracts constructing build-
ings on the shore,” he said. “They have an office in Salisbury, so they are invested in this community … Most recently, they have completed construction on the Berlin State Police barracks. They are also the construction management firm that is building the public library in Pocomoke.”
The school board’s approval of the contract with Keller Brothers was unanimous. Member Elena McComas moved to accept the agreement and member William Gordy seconded.
The Buckingham Elementary School replacement project has been a county priority for some time. The project was officially approved last year, when the state and county both pledged the funds to ensure it could come to fruition. The local government will pay $47.9 million, while the State of Maryland will provide $25.8 million for the initiative.
According to the new school’s design plans, the building will be a twostory school with sufficient space to house grades pre-K through grade four. The facility will be about 90,750 square feet, with around 69,387 square feet planned for the first floor and 21,364 reserved for the top story. Construction is set to begin in May 2027.
By Tara Fischer Staff Writer
(Sept. 19, 2025) A Berlin stormwater management code that requires property developers to obtain easements from downstream neighbors to build up a lot could be amended, per a recommendation from the town’s planning commission.
Current municipality standards maintain that if stormwater flows onto an existing property, the new project’s developers are mandated to secure easements from that site’s owner.
According to Sharon Cruz, a civil engineer with firm Davis, Bowen & Friedel, as it stands, Berlin’s rules dictate that, “if a stormwater management plan involves direction of some or all runoff off of the site, it is the responsibility of the developer to obtain from adjacent property owners, any easements or other necessary property interest concerning flowage of water. Approval of a stormwater management plan does not create or affect any right to direct runoff onto adjacent property without the property owner’s permission.”
That rule could now be adjusted. The planning commission’s basis for its recommendation for staff review is that even in the case where development of a property does not create additional runoff, another nearby owner may still deny the required easement and thus halt the initiative from moving forward.
“I’m fearful as a precedent, a smart investor could just start buying random lots around town and holding future developers hostage,” said Commission Chair Matthew Stoehr.
Stoehr’s fellow committee members agreed.
The topic came up during a project presentation on Sept. 10. The endeavor evaluated at that meeting had been previously reviewed by the Berlin Planning Commission but came before the group again with a minimized version to comply with the stormwater easement code.
Last week, the Berlin Planning Commission reviewed the preliminary plans to subdivide an existing parcel on Bay Street, west of Bottle Branch Road, into four residential lots. Property owner Eric Davis and Jason Lindsey, an engineer with Atlantic Group and Associates, presented the new design.
The project was originally to include several duplexes. Now, the approximately 2.8-acre parcel will be divided into four separate lots: Lot 1, 8,948 square feet; Lot 2, 8,700 square feet; Lot 3, 12,112 square feet; and Lot 4, 92,605 square feet.
Davis said that with the new setup, he could likely get away with building one small duplex. There are also three failing structures on the land, currently located on Lot 1, Lot 3, and Lot 4. The owner added that he may be able to remodel these facilities for some type of use.
The scope of the multi-duplex work was revised and reduced due to the town’s stormwater code, Lindsey said. According to the engineer, the developers were informed that to move forward, they needed to obtain an easement from the nearby Decatur Farms neighborhood to discharge stormwater onto their property.
Lindsey added that his team was able to reduce the 10-year peak discharge rate and match the regulatory standard of a two-year discharge rate. The duplex development would not increase the amount of stormwater Decatur Farms receives, as it would be considered a natural flow.
Even with the modified flow rate, Decatur Farms’ eight-person homeowners association board denied the request, ultimately stopping the owner’s original intent for the property in its tracks.
The new plans are allowable without permission from an adjacent property owner, so long as each lot’s development does not exceed 5,000 square feet of disturbance, which the owner and engineers maintain they will not hit with the modified scope of work.
This scaled-down version and parcel subdivision were preliminarily approved by the Berlin Planning Commission last week. The plans will be eligible for final approval once engineering, stormwater, and utility reviews are finalized.
Davis indicated that if the town stan-
dard were to be adjusted to allow for his initial duplex design, he would consider revitalizing those efforts.
For now, the developer will move forward with the reduced variation.
While this project will likely be amended to comply with the runoff code, the commission has asked that town staff take a look at the guidelines to protect future developments.
“I care about your project, but also the next 50,” Stoehr said, addressing Davis.
Cruz said that discussions would begin at the staff level “to evaluate the code for compliance with state regulations, because obviously, any storm water information in your code has to first and foremost comply with the state stormwater regulations.”
She continued, “And then, with the internal discussions, moving forward with, ‘What are the implications of the code as it is written now?’ And are there ways to clarify the code for better information for any potential developers with projects and their engineers?”
No timeline for these conversations was decided last week. The commission has simply requested that they eventually take place.
“A business owner or an HOA, they’re just going to say no,” Stoehr said.
“They have almost zero to gain. That’s my concern. That all future developments have this issue hanging over their head.”
By Brian Shane Staff Writer
(Sept. 19, 2025) Local legislators have secured a $150,000 pledge from the state toward local nonprofit Diakonia’s ongoing headquarters project in West Ocean City.
Maryland’s Board of Public Works on Sept. 10 approved the funding, which will support of the acquisition, planning, and construction of Diakonia’s new supportive living campus along Route 611.
Lower Shore lawmakers Del. Wayne Hartman and Sen. Mary Beth Carozza requested and secured the money through a capital bonds process dating to 2023. The full project, estimated to cost $12 million, will bring dozens of affordable housing units to the area when completed.
Carozza (R-38) said the organization is well-respected statewide and is in “a class of its own” by providing community services for veterans and the homeless, including its proactive Rapid Response Team that strives to provide services before a person’s living situation becomes desperate.
“Diakonia is a leader in helping the most vulnerable in our shore community,” she said.
Hartman (R-38C, Worcester) said Diakonia’s transitional housing opportunities provide a unique and much-needed service to the commu-
nity.
“Some of those people that they’re helping would not have had the help if it wasn’t for the efforts of Diakonia, going out into the community, identifying some of the homeless folks, and actually getting them to services,” he said. “It’s a win for the community and certainly a win for those individuals and having a more stable environment.”
When completed, the new campus will be “a lifeline for those in crisis,” said Amanda Shick, Diakonia’s capital project manager. She said the agency is deeply grateful to the state for its investment.
“This support is a powerful vote of confidence in Diakonia’s mission to provide ‘Help for Today and Hope for Tomorrow’ for the families, veterans, and individuals we serve. As we continue writing grants and building our capital campaign fundraising committee, this funding helps lay the groundwork to bring this vision to life,” she said in a statement.
Founded in 1972, the nonprofit has long since outgrown its current headquarters along Old Bridge Road, home to a food pantry and office space. Its emergency housing is at capacity nearly year-round, as fewer affordable housing units and rising rents mean people stay longer in the shelter space.
An official groundbreaking at the
new site was held Aug. 13 and attended by local community members, volunteers, and elected officials, including Department of Housing and Community Development Secretary Jake Day.
The legislative largesse will support Phase 1 of the campus project on 4.4. acres, including an upgraded community thrift store, an expanded food pantry and distribution center, a dedicated veterans resource center, as well as consolidated office space for staff.
Phase 2 will include 42 new longterm and transitional housing units, with a focus on living space for veterans and their families.
Carozza also noted that Maryland is facing a housing shortage that has led to a severe lack of affordable units on the Lower Shore. About 40% of the
population in her district, which includes Worcester, Wicomico, and Somerset counties, is living below the poverty line.
Both lawmakers added that their initial requests were much higher: Hartman sought $200,000 in aid, while Carozza, in a direct request last year Gov. Wes Moore’s office, sought $862,000 from the governor’s budget.
And, because bond initiatives made through the legislature are typically in the $50,000 to $200,000 range, Carozza also said she’s preparing to make another “significant” request of Gov. Moore for his fiscal 2027 budget.
“The way these projects work, given the high cost of the expansion project, done in phases, you work in your budget request over a period of time,” she said.
When the Coastal Highway bus lanes came into existence in 1985, no one knew how much non-bus traffic these supposedly restricted routes would be called on to handle in the future.
The first hint of what would become a huge problem of conflicting uses, however, occurred the following year when a resident asked the City Council whether a cyclist or the bus coming up behind it had the right of way.
The city solicitor at the time, the late Guy Ayres, replied pragmatically: the law notwithstanding, a cyclist challenging a bus over the right-of-way should not expect a favorable outcome.
The bus lanes then experienced the arrival of joggers, roller skaters, skateboarders and even motorized wheelchair users. A decade or so later, the bus lanes’ transformation to more of a specialty-vehicle roadway saw mopeds, motor scooters and the proliferation of personal mini-bikes added to the flow.
More recently, the Coastal Highway bus lanes are required to allow e-bikes, e-scooters and (legal or not) electric skateboards. And now the council is being asked to call on the state to change the law so golf carts can join the parade.
While this is a valid request, given that most other powered modes of transportation are permitted, and while it is true that this is a matter of fairness, it remains that the council should say absolutely, unequivocally no.
It's bad enough that many bus lane travelers don’t obey the traffic laws and that they impede the efficient flow of the city’s mass transportation system, but it would just one more hazard that buses, along with cars and trucks, will have to dodge.
What the council must consider is not what’s fair, but whether more people will be injured or die because of one more thing put in the path of turning cars and trucks, not to mention the buses, which may or may not have the right of way.
If, for some reason, you want to sober up quickly, despite having devoted a fair amount of time and money to being otherwise, there are certain things you can do with varying degrees of success.
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content copyright 2025
By Stewart Dobson
1. Take a cold shower and drink lots of hot, black coffee (This is a myth and it’s the least effective).
2. Come home and say, “Honey, I’m home!” (This is true, and it’s moderately effective).
3. Get the adrenalin pumping by walking into a biker bar wearing lederhosen (really effective, but wear track shoes).
4. Go to your 60th high school reunion (100% scared straight).
Understand, of course, that I did not walk into my 60th high school reunion last week under the influence ... or wearing lederhosen, for that matter, although if I had, it might have jump-started a few hearts that looked in need of a good jolt.
I’m talking about a room full of old people, lots of old people, all of whom had apparently conspired to remind me frequently that we are, sadly, the same age.
“So, how old are you now?” one wobbly old pop-pop asked me, before breaking out in a cackle and saying, “Wait, wait, don’t tell me...”
So funny. A laugh riot, in fact.
The truth is it isn’t easy seeing so many people who were once known for their shenanigans having become responsible, shenanigan-less adults of a certain age.
“Okay!” I declared. “Let’s be irresponsible!
Who’s with me?”
“I can’t,” replied a former classmate who gained fame and admiration for yanking the gym shorts off a guy while he was on the upswing on the flying rings in our co-ed P.E. class. “My kids are coming to pick me up.” I then turned to a guy who caused quite a disturbance in geometry class when the victim of one of his practical jokes reacted in a very bad way when he opened his text book to a square of cherry-laden Jell-O that had been smashed between the pages.
“You’re right,” said the prankster. “Let’s get this party started! I say to hell with a saltrestricted diet. Pass the potato chips! Hahahahahaha!”
“Yeah,” added another adventurous soul. “Let’s take off our name tags and see if we still know each other!”
Sigh.
I tell you, it was a sobering experience for me to see all these friends, people I grew up with and had known all my life, doing the old folks boogie.
But then, something startling happened as a voice rang out loud and clear: “It’s coupon night at the Golden Corral! Come on, everyone, let’s roll!”
Suddenly, the geezers and the wheezers, the stumblers and the mumblers joined to become a thundering herd stampeding to the door.
“Are you coming?” one turned to me and asked.
“You bet,” I replied. “But first I’ll need a nap.”
P.S. None of this is true. It’s all made up ... except for the cherry Jell-O stunt. Now, the truth may be told: I was the one who did that.
By Steve Green
Congratulations to the team at Kickin’ Events who pulled off an incredible feat with the new Rock and Ride event in Ocean City last week. It’s important to remember organizers had less than five months to produce the event after the previous Bikefest event essentially went out of business. There was no live entertainment booked as of May, and the events had to be created from scratch. The Town of Ocean City understood the predicament and helped the event by waiving fees typically associated with an event of this magnitude. It was such a challenging situation that Kickin Events even agreed to honor the $130,000 worth of tickets sold by the previous promoter.
All in all, the Rock and Ride bike week event earned solid reviews from attendees. The future looks bright for the event, as organizers told Ocean 98 radio each morning during the event they are learning from the first-year experience and value the feedback they were receiving from veteran attendees on what worked and did not work. There’s no question the area’s business community would have suffered greatly without an Ocean City-based bike week event. It’s a staple in the shoulder season and an event that brings a lot of commerce – much needed at that – to the area each year.
***
Another week and another article on offshore wind – in fact, we have had nine straight issues with news about offshore wind.
There was a time last year when it seemed every week there was a story about a key approval for the offshore wind project being received from federal agencies. Of late, there seems to be articles every week about legal actions being taken to halt the offshore wind project.
This week, federal officials acknowledged errors in the federal approval process by the previous administration. In a Sept. 12 filing, acting Interior Department assistant secretary Adam Suess said the Biden administration did not “account for all the impacts” associated with the offshore wind project, saying BOEM’s approval, “was not properly informed by a complete understanding of the impacts from the project.” This comes after significant legal action by Ocean City and allied governments to stop the project in addition to Trump’s executive order on Jan. 20 pausing wind farm leases and then in July freezing the critical wind subsidies.
Developer US Wind has refrained from commenting publicly on many of the actions the administration has taken in recent months, but last week a counterclaim filed in court by the company clarifies an intent to fight. The claim read, “The Federal Defendants’ efforts to vacate and undermine the Federal Approvals are inextricably tied to a wider plan to hinder or kill outright offshore wind projects (and renewable energy projects more generally) for political purposes, … The rationale offered by the Federal Defendants to justify the remand, vacatur, and undermining of the Federal Approvals—and any future rationales — are illegal, factually incorrect, and pretextual means to arrive at a pre-determined outcome in accordance with the aforementioned plan.”
***
Maryland Gov. Wes Moore made it clear this month he will not be vying for the presidency in 2028 and instead is focused on securing a second term as governor in 2026. Moore is probably sincere about his intentions today, but if he rolls to a second term in next fall’s state election, he could well change his mind. It’s certainly been done many times before.
“ … I’m not running for president … yes I’ll be serving a full term. I’m excited about re-election,” Moore said on Meet The Press on Sept. 7, sharing he is focused on Maryland and winning another term as governor next year. It was the obvious thing to say and really his only play. About the same time, former two-term Republican Gov. Larry Hogan, who lost his 2024 bid to become state senator, teased a potential run at governor. On social media, Hogan posted a photo of a “for sale” RV wrapped in his 2024 campaign marketing, saying, “Could make a good deal. Or … I guess we could always rewrap it and get back out on the road again?” Speaking generally, Moore said, “Anybody who wants to try (to challenge me): come on.”
My guess is Hogan will not make another run at governor, and Moore will be successful for a second term based on his standing in the voterrich metropolitan areas of Maryland. After a sound win, I think Moore will then be among a pool of Democrat candidates who announce in 2027 their intention to become the nominee likely to face current Vice President J.D. Vance to succeed Trump. Former Maryland Gov. Martin O’Malley made a run at the presidency in 2016 after his gubernatorial service. O’Malley dropped out after poor primary performances and endorsed Hillary Clinton, who lost to Trump.
tion, economic development, and more. Worcester County’s first Comprehensive Plan was released in 1965, followed by updates in the mid 1970s, and then another in 1997.
By Brian Shane Staff Writer
(Sept. 19, 2025) While Worcester County officials report nearing the end of the long planning process for the 2026 Comprehensive Plan, one county official wants to make sure his constituents aren’t left out.
When the County Commissioners were presented with a preliminary version of the document Tuesday, Ocean Pines representative Commissioner Chip Bertino wanted to know why his district – which is a homeowners association, not a formal municipality – wasn’t included by name on a page showing census and demographic data.
“Ocean Pines is not listed here and it’s the largest population base in the county,” Bertino said. “I was curious as to why they’re not separated out. … I believe very strongly that Ocean Pines should be recognized as an entity whose interests should be regarded moving forward.”
The county’s Planning Commission had raised that same point and they’ve already addressed how including more Ocean Pines data will be part of later plan revisions, responded Jennifer Keener, director of the county Development Review & Permitting office.
State law requires that local jurisdictions prepare comprehensive plans to guide growth and development for environmental resources, transporta-
While the county Planning Commission is supposed to review its comp plan every 10 years, it hasn’t formally updated a new plan since 2006.
By this December, the Planning Commission should have its final draft ready, which would then be sent to the state for a 60-day review, according to according to Michael Bayer, with consulting firm Wallace Montgomery.
He told the commissioners Tuesday it typically takes 18 to 24 months to put together a comprehensive plan. Now, after months of meetings with county planning staff, the process is nearing the end of the early data compilation and writing process.
Bayer reported that data gleaned from a public engagement campaign had reached 1,500 people. It’s been used in monthly meetings with the county’s Planning Commission, where they’ve been discussing “chapters” of the document on topics like water resources, housing, and land use, among others.
Following that, the document comes back to the Planning Commission for last looks before they send it along to the commissioners for review and adoption. The document should be finished and released to the public early next year, according to Bayer.
“It’s a very collaborative process,” he said. “If there are some other comments from you, groups or anybody that you want to give us direction for, you know, we’ll work through that as well.”
‘We’re doing the improbable’ with
By Tara Fischer Staff Writer
(Sept. 18, 2025) Assessment data reveal that not only are Worcester County Public School students outperforming their peers across the state, but that the district’s young learners are beating the odds when it comes to achievement and poverty.
At the Worcester County Board of Education meeting on Tuesday, Sept. 16, Tom Hamill, coordinator of research and student information, and Jennifer McDowell, local accountability coordinator, presented an in-depth look at the system’s results in the Maryland Comprehensive Assessment Program, exams administered in spring 2025.
On August 26, the Maryland State Department of Education released the statewide MCAP scores, revealing that WCPS students achieved the highest passing rates in both English/Language Arts and mathematics, surpassing all other 23 districts.
This week, school system staff dove even deeper into the data, highlighting further the barriers WCPS continues to break.
MCAP testing occurs every year for
See SCHOOL Page 77
(Sept. 19, 2025) The Maryland Society for Educational Technology has announce that Caleb Wilson, district coach of Instructional Technology and Innovation for Worcester County Public Schools, has been named the 2025 recipient of the “Outstanding Leader Using Technology Award.”
The award is presented annually to a Maryland educator serving outside the classroom “who has made exemplary contributions to the implementation and advancement of educational technology.” The award reflects MSET’s mission to advance excellence in learning and teaching through innovative and effective uses of technology in education.
Wilson has demonstrated exceptional leadership in guiding Worcester County Public Schools and the state of Maryland through transformative approaches to technology integration, the society announcement said.
He spearheaded the AI4WCPS Steering Committee, where he led the development of one of the most comprehensive and forward-thinking frameworks for artificial intelligence in K–12 education. His work has emphasized ethical use, accessibility, and practical classroom applications, ensuring that technology adoption remains focused on meaningful student outcomes.
Beyond policy and vision, Wilson has helped multiple schools achieve Apple Distinguished School recognition, provided coaching and mentoring to educators across grade levels, and developed customized applications and tools to meet the unique needs of students, including nonverbal learners and students requiring adaptive technologies.
Wilson has spoken at events and gatherings across Maryland, offering professional learning on artificial intelligence, instructional innovation, and the future of educational technology.
His Wakelet collection of over 390 AI-focused resources has become a statewide resource for educators and stakeholders seeking to deepen their knowledge of AI tools in teaching and learning.
“Caleb’s leadership in bringing artificial intelligence into the professional learning space has been nothing short of inspiring,” said Dr. Brandie Shatto, the society’s past president and awards chair.
“He has provided countless educators with the tools, strategies, and confidence they need to approach AI thoughtfully and responsibly. His vision has positioned Maryland at the forefront of this critical conversation, while his humility and collaborative spirit have empowered others to lead alongside him.”
In addition to his local and state impact, Wilson has collaborated with the Maryland Center for Computing Education, the Maryland State Department of Education, and higher education institutions such as the University of Maryland Global Campus. His work continues to shape both the policy and practice of technology integration in education across the region.
“Caleb’s commitment to innovation, equity, and teacher empowerment embodies the true spirit of this award,” said the society’s leadership. “He reminds us that technology is not about the tools themselves, but about expanding opportunities and ensuring that every student can thrive.”
grades three through eight, and once in high school. Each student receives a score from one through four. One implies that the learner requires significant academic support. Two demonstrates partial understanding, while three and four indicate proficiency in a subject.
In WCPS, 68.5% of students were proficient in ELA, while 47.7% displayed comprehension in mathematics. Worcester was at the top of the leader board in the state for both learning topics.
This trend continues, even when examining MCAP scores in each grade level. ELA 7 notably showed strong levels of understanding, with 75% of students who took that test across the county receiving a three or a four, compared to the state average of 53%.
Data from ELA 5 test takers does dip a little. Among students who were administered the ELA 3, 4, 6, 7, 8, and 10 exams, no less than 68% demonstrated subject proficiency. However, in ELA 5, only 54% of learners displayed topic comprehension. Still, this figure surpasses the state average of a 45% pass rate.
Officials noted the discrepancy for grade five. The slight decrease in passing scores may be attributed to the fact
that students transition into a new school in fifth grade and are learning an entirely new set of expectations.
“I think it’s an expectation gap that happens when students leave one school and go to the next, because across the state, they’re leaving elementary school at grade four typically, and they’re going to grade five,” said Annette Wallace, WCPS superintendent. “We see the same thing when they leave grade 8 and go to high school. We were discussing this and discussing what we could do.”
WCPS was ranked number one across the state in ELA MCAP scores in every grade level, except for ELA 5, where Worcester came in sixth and Frederick County placed first, and ELA 10, where Worcester also came in sixth and Calvert County came in first.
Furthermore, WCPS ranked as the top county in the state, based on MCAP results, for mathematics. Diving even deeper, 71% of students who took the Math 3 assessment earned a proficient score, drastically outperforming the state average of 42% for that same test.
Like ELA, WCPS’s math MCAP scores were the highest among each grade level statewide, except for a few. Worcester placed second in both Math
5 and Math 6, just below Howard County.
The last part of Tuesday’s presentation focused on how WCPS is performing, with poverty rates factored in.
“[This analysis] is based upon the simple truism that poorer schools have lower levels of proficiency across the entire country than schools with less levels of poverty,” Hamill said. “It’s one of those conundrums in education. It shouldn’t matter, and yet it shows up in the data time and time again.”
However, WCPS appears to be the exception to that rule. Hamill’s graphs include a line that predicts where a school would fall based on poverty. A shaded area indicates one standard deviation outside of that expected range.
“We would expect 70% of schools to fall inside that [shaded area],” Hamill said. “WCPS in every case is well above the prediction line but also one standard deviation, and in some cases, four or five standard deviations.”
Hamill emphasizes how unlikely it is that WCPS consistently outperforms its poverty expectations to such a high extent.
“I look at this data and I don’t understand this,” he said. “You would
expect outliers but to the quantity of scores that we have at the level we have with the poverty that we have in the schools that we have, there is no reason for us to be performing as high as we are, other than what we’re doing. I don’t know why the national media isn’t saying, ‘Oh my God what is going on here?’ and asking us because they should.”
“From a statistical point of view, it’s very improbable. We’re doing the improbable in WCPS. That doesn’t mean there aren’t gaps, there are certainly gaps, but…when you look overall, we should not be performing as well as we do.”
Hamill said that some identifiable challenges include the fact that there is an achievement dip in fifth grade and that non-white students are not performing as well as white students. However, Wallace said she and her team are looking at ways to amend these apparent difficulties. She added that these problematic findings are just another reason why teachers and school staff must know “every single kid by name, strength and need.”
Wallace also said that in light of Worcester’s testing success, she was invited to present to the Maryland State Department of Education in December.
summer professional development day, they are given access to the data for their incoming students.
By Tara Fischer Staff Writer
(Sept. 19, 2025) The work that Ocean City Elementary School personnel do in the summer to allow teachers to know more about their incoming students’ academic standing was outlined for the Worcester County Board of Education on Tuesday.
Julie Smith, OCES principal, and Julie Justice, the facility’s curriculum resource teacher, gave the board a look at the student-improvement strategy their instructors begin in the summer. The aim of this effort is to give students the best possible chance to reach educational success in the next academic year.
Smith said each teacher receives a data binder at the end of the school year. The teachers will use these to note testing results and information from the education platform iReady for every student they had in their classroom. Other information that might be helpful is included as well. School officials then sort the notebooks into the new class arrangements. When teachers attend their
The instructors will have the opportunity to review the information, which includes iReady printouts, writing samples, and additional findings, such as whether the student was invited to the summer academy or had attendance issues.
Fourth-grade teachers will also be given the results of their new students on the Maryland Comprehensive Assessment Program exams, which the students took the previous year.
This strategy allows the teachers to identify the “bubble students,” or the students within five points of increasing or dropping a performance level, before they even step into the classroom.
“[Our teachers] want to make sure they know that these are the students that need that little extra push, no matter which direction it’s in,” Justice said. “We just want to make sure that all of our students can succeed to the best of their ability.”
Also during the summer, school personnel will identify the children who fall into the “emergency, caution, or keep on the radar” categories through DIBELS (Dynamic Indicators of Basic Early Literacy Skills).
The “emergency” kids require “Tier Three” intervention, or intensive and individualized support. The “caution” students are those below the benchmark targets for their grade level and thus require a little bit of focus.
The “keep on the radar” learners were successful in the end-of-year DIBEL assessment but displayed some inconsistencies previously. Intervention strategies are determined based on these criteria.
“We also color code these kiddos,” Justice added. “We keep a sheet from year to year, and we look at each of our kids. If they are in green, that means that they have increased at least one level in our categories, which are emergency, caution, and keep on the radar.
“If they are in yellow, it means they maintained that same category. If they are in red, that means they fell at least one category. We want to keep track of that to see if the students are making the progress they need to make during interventions.”
Smith said teachers keep these data forms on their desks and use them in all aspects of classroom decisions, including how they arrange student desks and how the kids interact.
WCPS officials emphasized that
his jump start allows teachers to take the appropriate action as early in the school year as possible.
“It's very valuable when you walk in the classroom and you know where your kids are,” board member Jon Andes said after the end of the presentation. “…This allows teachers to make a difference.”
Another board member, Katie Addis, inquired whether this process was being used at other schools in the county.
Denise Shorts, WCPS’s chief academic officer, said that each facility has its own variation, but what makes OCES’ program particularly successful is that it begins in the summer. This head start has proven to give students the tools they need to excel, even on the first day of school.
Superintendent Schools Annette Wallace added that beginning this data deep dive during the school break is a strategy they are looking to implement at schools where grade levels see a dip in performance.
Wallace pointed to a struggle that fifth graders have on certain state tests, likely because students in the north end of the county transition to a new school in grade five and must become accustomed to a new set of expectations.
By Joseph E. Moore, Esq. Contributing Writer
On April 30, 1945, William Joyce was very drunk. Not only was that a problem, but to add to the situation, he had decided to take to the airways and proclaim his distress.
His voice was heard by hundreds of thousands of people who had tuned in to listen, because he was the infamous Nazi broadcaster, "Lord Haw-Haw.” However, even in this last, very inebriated speech, his Irish heritage betrayed him, due to the Galway inflection of his speech.
"My work has been in vain. No measures will shatter Germany. Germany will live because the German people have in them the secret of life!" What Joyce did not realize was that, on that very day, Adolph Hitler had committed suicide, and Nazi Germany had less than two weeks before it would surrender, ending World War II in the European Theater.
Joyce in England
Joyce was Irish by blood, American by birth (he was born in Brook-
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lyn, N.Y.) and held a British passport. He had moved with his English mother and Irish-American father to Galway, Ireland, in 1915.
He later went to England, where he attended King's College School for a brief time. Ironically, he also joined the Officer Training School at Birkbeck College of the University of London and obtained a First Class Honors’ degree.
However, at this time he also developed an interest in Fascism. His Nazi leanings were formulated when he had joined, in the mid-’30s, the British Fascist Party formed by Sir Oswald Mosley. He swiftly became a powerful speaker for the cause, and was described by English journalist Cecil Rogers as, "...intense...electrifying ...terrifying in his dynamic force ...so vitriolic ...so vituperative....”
Joyce was promoted to the party's Director of Propaganda, in 1934, and was later elevated to deputy leader. He also had a reputation as a brawler, and his willingness to physically confront opponents head-on, in violent brawls, caused a marginalization of the Fascist Party in England.
He also caused the change of the Party name to "The British Union of Fascist and National Socialists" in 1936, bringing Hitler's National Socialist (Nazi) party into the mix.
In 1937, he stood for election as a
party candidate in the London City Council election but, of course, did not take office. Joyce was sacked from his paid position when Mosley fired him and drastically reduced the party staff after the disastrous results of the 1937 election.
He fled to Germany in August 1939, after he had been tipped off that the British authorities intended to detain him under the "Defense Regulation Act.” This was just before the war broke out when Germany invaded Poland on Sept. 1, 1939, causing England and France to declare war.
Almost immediately, he joined Joseph Goebbels' Propaganda Ministry as a broadcaster, after a chance meeting with a fellow English Fascist expatriate got him an audition at the German Rundfunkhaus ("Broadcasting house"). Joyce, as a result of his audition, got a job doing script writing and radio announcements. Joyce became a naturalized German citizen in 1940.
At the time, the primary broadcaster was Wolf Mittler. Initially, Mittler was "Lord Haw-Haw," a phrase coined by the Daily Express radio critic, Jonah Barrington. However, as Joyce became the most recognized and famous German Broadcaster, the name was transferred to him, and with him, it stuck. His broadcasting style was described, by Barrington,
as, "...English of the haw-haw, dammit-get-out-of-my-way variety, and his strong suit is gentlemanly indignation.”
His broadcasts initially came from Berlin, but due to intense Allied bombing, he later broadcast from Luxemburg and still later from Apen, near Hamburg. The broadcasts were relayed over a network of German stations stretching from Hamburg, Germany to Oslo, Norway, and included Calais, France, just 26 miles across the English Channel from Britain.
As his notoriety grew, his audience did also. Although listening to his broadcasts was officially discouraged in Britain, he became immensely popular, with a listening audience in Britain of six million regular, and 18 million occasional, listeners in the United Kingdom. During this time, his listening audience in Britain rivaled even those of the BBC.
His Persona
His broadcasts always began with his instantly recognized accent — “Gairmany calling ... Gairmany calling ... Gairmany calling ..." His arrogant and lilting voice would urge the British people to surrender and always had a sarcastic and jarring tone, given his obvious Irish-English accent, for a Nazi broadcaster.
United Kingdom, thus allowing Joyce to report tidbits of English life and accurate occurrences that unnerved the British authorities.
He gained almost a larger-thanlife status in the UK. There were claims that he could predict bombing targets, and he imparted detailed information about bombing sites and damage. In fact, however, this was largely due to the English status of censorship, and he therefore merely stated known facts some hours earlier than the delayed information provided by the BBC.
His broadcasts were, however, always anti-Semitic and many times poked fun at Winston Churchill, the beloved prime minister during the war. As to these segments, the audience found his ramblings to be absurd, but his talks, many times, were entertaining and thus relieved the tedium of British wartime hardship.
His distinctive accent was a source of ridicule and was sometimes parodied by comedians in England, but those jokes waned when the relentless bombing by Germany devastated areas of London and other major English cities during the Battle of Britain.
In many instances, just as with Tokyo Rose and Axis Sally, two other prominent Axis broadcasters, the listening audience was fascinated by the information that they received by the broadcasts. Joyce, however, became the most influential Nazi broadcast personage. He and his wife, Margaret, were awarded the Cross of War Merit, First Class, by Adolph Hitler, in 1944.
English news was heavily censored and Lord Haw-Haw, many times, revealed information that they could not otherwise get. At times, some of his broadcasts imparted information that caused him to rise to almost mystical proportions, in stating specific matters not otherwise available.
Some folks actually thought he was in England, due to his insightful information, although it was certainly forwarded by German spies in the
His anti-Semitic rants were relentless and he continuously stressed the position that England and Germany should unite against the Communist threat from the Soviet Union.
His duties also included disseminating propaganda to British prisoners-of-war, and he sought to enlist them into the "British Free Corps,” a branch of the Waffen SS — a wholly unsuccessful effort.
He also was the author of a book, “Twilight Over England,” which compared Socialist Germany to his idea of the evils of a "Jewish-dominated capitalist England.”
As the war began to turn inexorably against Germany, he began to drink heavily and his marriage went on the rocks.
As previously stated above, his last, rambling and nearly incoherent, broadcast was on April 30, 1945, during the Battle for Berlin. Previous to
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Sat., Sept 27th • 9am–2pm
the broadcast, Joyce and the other broadcasting staff had raided the cellars of the Reichsrundfunk and had consumed everything alcoholic they could get their hands on.
Rambling on, he chastised the British for carrying out the war beyond the "mere containment" of Germany and repeatedly warned of the Soviet menace. Not knowing the fate of the Führer, he signed off with a defiant, "Heil Hitler, and farewell!"
On May 28, 1945, Joyce was spotted by British intelligence officers, as he sat, disheveled, after gathering firewood at Flensburg, near the German-Danish border. They engaged him in a conversation and his instantly recognized voice betrayed him.
As he reached for a false ID in an attempt to prove he was not Joyce, he was shot in the buttocks by the British troops, who thought he was reaching for a gun. He was taken by Jeep to a border military post and turned over to British military police, and later sent to London to be tried on charges of high treason.
The Trial
Shortly after his arrival in London, on June 16, 1945, after his recuperation in a Luxemburg hospital, a dilemma ensued. He was, after all, born in the United States, raised in Ireland and then obtained a naturalized citizenship in Germany.
However, because he had obtained a British passport, which he had renewed just before leaving Britain in 1939, and which was valid until July 2, 1940, which was after he began his broadcast career in Germany, he was susceptible to the charge of treason under the Treason Act of 1945. Because his British passport afforded him the protection of the Crown, he, therefore owed allegiance to Great Britain, as well.
The trial began in the Old Bailey, on Sept. 17, 1945, and lasted only three days. He had been charged with three counts of treason. After the evidence, the judge instructed the jury to find him not guilty on two of the counts related to charges of activity after the expiration of the passport. But the jury found him guilty of the
remaining count and he was sentenced to death by hanging — the mandatory sentence for treason.
This brought forth widespread unease, since he had not been responsible for one death, and the harsh sentence, it was felt, should be reserved for the much more culpable Nazi war criminals. His attorneys filed an appeal on Sep. 27, 1945, which was thereafter heard and denied on Nov. 7, 1945. Due to the important question of law in the matter, the attorney-general agreed that the case should be heard before the House of Lords, England's highest tribunal. A panel of Lords dismissed the appeal by a vote of three to one, on Dec. 18, 1945.
Joyce was hanged at Wandsworth Prison on Jan. 3, 1946, unrepentant to the end, stating, "In death as in life, I defy the Jews who caused this last war and I defy the powers of darkness which they represent."
Joyce was the last person in British history to be hanged for treason.
He was unceremoniously buried on prison grounds, but on Aug. 18, 1976, his body was exhumed and reinterred in the New Cemetery in Bohermore, County Galway, Ireland, where he lies today.
Further reading;
1. The Trial of William Joyce; C.E. Bechhofer Roberts [Old Bailey Trial Series] London 1946.
2. The Meaning of Treason; Dame Rebecca West (Macmillan, London) 1949 .
3. Lord How-How and William Joyce; William Cole (Faber and Faber, London) 1964.
4. Hitler's Englishman: , Francis Selwyn (Routledge and Kegan Paul LTD. London) 1987.
5. Germany Calling-a personal biography of William Joyce, Mary Kenny (New Island Books, Dublin) 2003.
6. Haw-Haw: the Tragedy of William and Margaret Joyce; Nigel Farmdale (Macmillan, London)
Next week: The First American Casualty Of The Vietnam War
Mr. Moore is a principal in the firm of Williams, Moore, Shockley & Harrison, LLP, in Ocean City.
STANLEY HANSEN
Ocean City
Stanley Hansen, age 76, peacefully passed away on Tuesday, Sept. 9, 2025, joining his beloved wife Jeanette. Born in Jersey City, New Jersey, he was the son of the late Almer and Elna Hansen.
Raised in Jackson, New Jersey and graduating from Jackson Memorial High School in 1967, Stan grew up with a deep love for the outdoors, enjoying soccer, hunting, and fishing. He was an avid fan of winter sports, from skating to skiing, and never missed a chance to watch the Winter Olympics.
A skilled butcher by trade, Stan worked for the Shop Rite companies for most of his career. It was there that he met Jeanette, and they were
married in 1982. The two moved to Belmar, where Stan continued his passion for surf fishing along the Jersey Shore, fly fishing at the Salmon River, and skiing in the mountains. Their family vacations were often filled with these adventures, as well as days spent at the beaches of Ocean City Maryland.
In 2000, Stan and Jeanette made Ocean City their permanent home. Stan resumed his trade at Food Lion before starting his own business, Stan's Fish Cutting Service, where he proudly supported local sport fishermen, captains, and crews at Sunset Marina and The Fishing Center.
In his later years, Stan devoted himself to caring for Jeanette until her passing. He found joy in quiet moments, like sipping coffee and chatting with friends at the casino or spending time with the crew at CapContinued on Page 82
tain Ron's Deer Processing. During his final days, Stan enjoyed drives through Assateague Island with his daughter-in-law, marveling at the wild ponies, and watching the fleet return to the harbor from his porch on the inlet. He passed away peacefully in Ocean Pines, Maryland, surrounded by his family, a testament to the love he gave throughout his life.
Stan was a patient and generous soul, always ready to share his kind heart and infectious grin. He touched the lives of many and will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.
Stan is survived by his brother Art Hansen and wife Cathy; his stepson Michael Fitch and wife Katie; his stepdaughter Janis Fitch and husband Steven Mayhew; two grandchildren, Jordan Fitch and Ryan Fitch; and three nieces, Deana Hoffmann, Jeana
Tafrow, and Christina D’Agostino. Cremation followed his death. A celebration of life will be held at a later date. Letters of condolence can be sent to the family via www.burbagefuneralhome.com. Arrangements are in the care of The Burbage Funeral Home.
DIANE DEVANNA
Berlin
Diane Devanna passed away at home on Saturday, September 13, 2025, surrounded by her loving family after a courageous and enduring journey with cancer.
Born and raised in South Jersey, it was there she met her husband, Gary, while working together. They married in September
1979 and in 1985, started a family HVAC business together, Gary’s Shore Service. Diane was the backbone of the business and the household, acting as both Office Manager and Treasurer while also raising their son.
In 2009, Diane and Gary relocated to Berlin, Maryland, where they reestablished the family business.
Diagnosed with cancer in 2011, Diane faced her illness with remarkable strength and resilience. Throughout her journey, she was surrounded by an extraordinary support group of friends who became like family. Diane was known for her love of cats, her appreciation of a good margarita, and the joy she found in spending time with friends and family. You could also always count on Diane to give the best hugs.
Diane is survived by her devoted husband of 45 years, Gary, who considers himself the luckiest man alive to have shared his life with her; her
son Bob (Tory); her grandson Declan; her mother Peg; her sister Donna (Steve); nephews Chris (Kate) and Matt (Rebecca); her brother-in-law Fred (Jackie); nephew Dave (Christine) and niece Laura (Henry) as well as their mother, Patty (Rick). She was predeceased by her infant son Gary Jr. and her father Bob. Per Diane’s wishes, there will not be a formal service. A celebration of her life will be held at a later date, during the warm weather months she loved most—she never liked the cold! In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Diane’s honor to Town Cats of Ocean City, Maryland at PO Box 1405, Ocean Pines, Md. 21811.
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E-mail: editor@octodaydispatch.com
By Bruce C. Walls
Contributing Writer
(Sept 19, 2025) The victory streak ended at 28 for Stephen Decatur’s Seahawk varsity football team last Friday night, with a 23-14 loss during a non-conference game against the Wi-Hi Indians of Salisbury.
The crowd at the game was treated to a good gridiron battle. First blood came when Decatur’s Kyle Mumford scored the first touchdown and Blake Wallace made the kick.
Seconds later, the Indians matched them making the score 7-7 on a kickoff return touchdown, ending an exciting first half.
After the game Mumford said, “We played a good game, it felt great .” He said he prepares by. “I’m just working on my teammates and putting it in the grind every day ….hoping for a win next week.”
At half-time spectators were entertained by the Stephen Decatur marching band, cheerleaders and a video sharing “Morgan’s Message,” a program advocating for the mental health of the student-athlete community.
Stephen Decatur’s Morgan’s message charter was formed a year and a half ago and has expanded to over 60 students. The message is it’s okay to
ask for help if you need it.
Stephen Decatur was awarded a grant from the Freeman Arts Foundation, and it also rounded up some community support to raise money to paint a mural to share Morgan’s message.
Their purpose is to elevate the human spirit working with the arts and promoting mental health. The mural is pictured to the west of the stadium and is intended to be a ball wall for sports teams.
In the third quarter, Wi Hi scored a 2-point safety making the score 7-9 in their favor and that changed the game. This was followed quickly by a touchdown and the kick for Wi Hi (716).
In the 4th quarter, Decatur’s Brian Chester made a touchdown, and Wallace got the point for a 14-16 score. Just second later, however, the Indians countered with a kickoff return touchdown and extra point to wrap the night’s scoring and the win.
Coach Jake Coleman said, “We did some good things, we have a lot to improve on ... that’s football.”
Quarterback Johnny Hopgood said for the next game, “I feel like we just got to be locked in and focus more and have better practices.”
The next two games are away on Sep. 18 at North Caroline and Sept. 25 against Queen Anne’s. The Seahawks return to their home field on Oct. 2 when they host Snow Hill.
By Bruce C. Walls
Contributing Writer
(Sept. 19, 2025) Worcester Prep’s Fighting Mallards girls soccer team lost 6-1 to the Sabres of Saints Peter and Paul of Easton on Monday Sept. 15.
This was their second game and loss this season, following their defeat on Sept. 9 against The Salisbury School.
Coach Carol Hartnett, who began coaching girls’ soccer in 1998, attributed the loss to a lack of experience rather than a desire to win. This year’s team consists of 18 players, with nine being freshman.
“So, 15 out of 18 of these girls are new and some new to soccer period and have never played,” she said.
“Never having played ... both our goalies have never done that before. They both did an awesome job. They both just volunteered to do it. “
Harper Hertrich and Kylee Hutton made eight saves during the game.
Hertrich was goalie in the first half and played center midfielder in the second half.
“In the first half, Harper did an excellent job and in the second half she made the goal,” Hartnett said.
Before the second half, the Sabres made three goals and the Fighting Mallards could not make it to the scoreboard. Worcester Prep had five shots on goal and scored one with just 10:13 left to play.
“Today we learned a lot of things, that we need to work on because
Mallards feature mostly underclass players with two seniors and four juniors
By Bruce C. Walls Contributing Writer
(Sept. 19, 2025) The Fighting Mallards’ fourth volleyball game of the season did not go well against the Sabre’s of Saints Peter and Paul School in Easton, losing all three sets on Monday.
They also lost a home game to Delmar High School on Sept. 4 and an away game on Sept. 9 at Indian River High School, before notching a win at St. Michaels High School on Sept. 12.
This year’s squad has only two sen-
iors and four juniors.
“I think we did well being a young team, mostly sophomores,” Coach Samantha Harrison said. “So, I think for that we did really well. We have a lot to work on; we have a lot of potential on our team. We are still in the beginning of our season, I think we did pretty well for our 4th game. We lost two of our prior games and won our last game against St. Michaels.
“I think the girls fought well. … I don’t think it was enough to get the job done. The other team just kind of outplayed us. They out served us and you know in volleyball that just happens.”
The Mallards were scheduled to square off next against Salisbury Christian on Thursday.
we’re just mostly playing against each other,” Harnett said. “This is just our second game.”
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