Victim’s family, City Hall agree out of court to terms after horrific 2024 Boardwalk collision. — PAGE 12
SHA to pitch plan to turn lane over to bikes, move buses into slow lane. — PAGE 6 Giant road project
Work to begin on intersection for new shopping center. — PAGE 22
By Brian Shane Staff Writer
(Oct. 31, 2025) A West Ocean City shopping center and its retail leases are both up for grabs.
Outlets Ocean City has been on the market since July 7 as a listing from commercial real estate brokerage Berkeley Capital Advisors. The listing status changed to “under contract” as of Sept. 18. No sale price is posted online.
The unnamed buyer is a group, according to listing agent Morgan Hall. She said the group has been doing due diligence ahead of a settlement on the property. Hall provided no other details.
Located along Route 50 in West Ocean City, the 200,000-square-foot retail center has a mix of local stores and national brands, including anchor stores Old Navy and Home Goods. Restaurants are Mione’s Pizza, Outback Steakhouse, and the Japanese eatery Sakura.
The property has a net operating income of $2.46 million, with 82% occupancy, the listing also says.
Despite several empty storefronts visible throughout the property, the listing claims the shopping center is “experiencing strong leasing momentum” with 19,000 square feet of new leases signed for this year and another 36,000 square feet of tenant renewals executed.
A new buyer is encouraged to raise rents: the property includes 20 tenants without renewal options, the listing says, and their rents are below market value by about $6.50 per square foot. Raising rents and filling vacancies could generate another $1 million in revenue over three years, the listing says.
The listing also highlights West Ocean City’s affluence as a selling point, saying the average household income in a five-minute drive of the
property is more than $144,000, though the source of that information is unclear.
Not only is the property for sale, but so is its land lease.
Leaseholder rights on the property hit the market Aug. 13, offered by Salisbury-based commercial realty brokerage SVN Miller, for $6.5 million. The lease term would expire in the year 2083. Chicago-based Ignite Retail Partners is the property’s current leasing company.
That same listing also says the 21acre outlets property was recently appraised at $13.2 million but doesn’t say where that information came from.
If someone were to purchase both the property and its lease rights, a buyer could potentially redevelop the site for non-retail uses, like hotels, condos, a conference center, or other mixed-use projects, according to the real estate website Crexi.
The outlets property has changed hands several times in recent years. Baltimore-based Cordish Company used to own the property and called it Ocean City Factory Outlets. In 2011, shopping center operator Tanger Inc. acquired the property, invested heavily in exterior renovations, and called it Tanger Outlets Ocean City.
By 2019, Tanger had sold the property to buyers Singerman Real Estate and The Outlet Resource Group, part of a bundled purchase that included three other outlet properties for $130 million. That new ownership group re-branded to Outlets Ocean City.
The outlets for sale are not to be confused with the adjacent White Marlin Mall, another separately owned and operated shopping center on
by Staples, Marshalls, Planet Fitness, and Ulta Beauty.
coastal setting. MDWO2033522
By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor
(Oct. 31, 2025) The Maryland State Highway Administration (SHA) says details on a plan to convert the Coastal Highway bus lane into a dedicated bike lane will be shared at a public workshop later this year.
On Dec. 8, SHA representatives will hold a workshop on the agency’s Pedestrian Safety Action Plan for Coastal Highway. That plan, which aims to eliminate traffic-related injuries and fatalities through im-
proved roadway safety, includes a proposal to repurpose the city’s shared bus and bike lane into a bikeonly lane.
The plan, first presented in September during a meeting of the Ocean City Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Committee, was revisited earlier this month by members of the Ocean City Transportation Committee. While details are sparse, city officials noted that SHA would hold a public hearing and formal presentation sometime in the coming months.
“We had some concerns that they needed to address, and they are going to hash it out a little bit more and bring it to a public hearing,” City Manager Terry McGean explained earlier this month. “That same general timeframe, they’d present it to the full Mayor and Council.”
Generally speaking, officials report the current shared bus lane on Coastal Highway would be converted into a dedicated bike use lane, while the buses would then be moved out into the slow lane of Coastal Highway. SHA denied a Public Information Act request by this newspaper to review details of the project.
“This project is currently in the design phase, and the proposal is not yet publicly available,” an agency response reads.
Preliminary design efforts for Coastal Highway’s Pedestrian Safety Action Plan began in November 2024. And in January 2025, SHA held its first public workshop to gather feedback on bicycle and pedestrian safety needs along the corridor.
Now that design work is continuing, SHA plans to begin public outreach on its proposed improvements. A workshop will be held at the Roland E. Powell Convention Center on Dec. 8, beginning at 5 p.m. Additional information on the Pedestrian Safety Action Plan can be found on the SHA project portal webpage.
By Brian Shane Staff Writer
(Oct. 31, 2025) It wasn’t the sheriff’s idea to put deputies in Worcester County’s private and parochial schools. That request originated with two of the schools themselves – who also got help from an elected county official in making their pitch.
While the sheriff’s office outlined in an Oct. 15 memo how a new protective detail at three local private schools could be structured and what it might cost, that memo was written at the request of County Commissioner Caryn Abbott, according to Sheriff Matt Crisafulli.
“It was first brought to us by Commissioner Caryn Abbott,” Crisafulli told OC Today-Dispatch on Monday. “She had spoken to some residents and that facilitated the idea. Then there were discussions with the other schools, at that point. But the idea came to us this cycle from Caryn Abbott.”
The sheriff’s office told county leaders it would take an estimated $840,000 in start-up costs to get four new school resource deputies hired for the 2026-27 school year. Costs in year two would drop to about $500,000. It would take up to a year of hiring and training before deputies would be ready for the detail.
“I said, if they’re asking and they’re showing an interest, then, you know, my perspective is, I want all our children protected in mandated learning
institutions,” the sheriff said. “But there’ s a lot of logistics that have to go into this. A lot of components. We wanted to get the letter upstairs to at least get the idea going. We sent it up early, because, our thought was, if this was something that got approved, we would have to recruit and hire.”
Earlier this month, administrators at Most Blessed Sacrament Catholic School outside Ocean Pines and Seaside Christian Academy in West Ocean City wrote to the county commissioners, asking for school resource deputies, or SRDs, to be posted to their schools.
“Providing SRD coverage for all private schools in the county would create a consistent, equitable approach to student safety across all educational settings,” Seaside Christian Academy Principal Emily Neville wrote Oct. 8. “We believe that protecting our young people should not depend on where they attend school, but rather on our shared commitment to the well-being of every child in our community.”
Most Blessed Sacrament Principal David P. Stofa in his Oct. 16 letter told county leaders he’d welcome a dedicated school resource deputy. Stofa did not respond to requests for comment.
Abbott also said Katie Addis, a Worcester County Board of Education member from Bishopville, a parent and board member at Seaside Christian, was “instrumental” with efforts to get that school to join the discussion.
Addis also spoke at the commissioners’ Oct. 7 meeting in support of putting school resource deputies in private schools. She did not return an email seeking comment. Since this issue went public, Abbott says she’s been hearing from the constituents on both sides of the issue. Some in opposition argued they’d like to have deputies posted to their private businesses, too, she said. That’s a position Abbott disagrees with.
“Well, I'm sorry. We're talking about children's lives here,” she said. “And, to me, students, no matter where they sit in Worcester County, whether it be private or public, deserve the same protection. God forbid something happened and we had this brought to us and we did nothing.”
Abbott continued: “To me, I don't look at we're giving something to a private school, necessarily. It's more we're giving something to the children and the staff that we give to public schools.”
“It is the right of every child in Worcester County to feel protected at school, regardless of the type of institution they attend,” he wrote. “By extending SRD services to private schools like ours, you help ensure that every child in the county enjoys the same standard of safety and care. School security should reflect our shared responsibility for all students, not be influenced by differences in enrollment.”
Commissioner Abbott (District 1, Southern) in an interview Wednesday confirmed that she had encouraged the parochial schools to write those formal letters of request after hearing from parents at both institutions. The parent requests were fueled by continued mass shootings nationwide that targeted churches and schools, she said.
She also confirmed having met with the sheriff’s office in September with a parent from Seaside to discuss the matter in person. This conversation led the sheriff’s office to draft the memo.
Abbott admitted it’s a “large ask” of the county but believes it’s necessary.
“Every child in our county that’s sitting in the schools, whether it be private or public, deserves the same protection,” she said. “A road patrol officer getting there is going to be minutes too late, in my opinion. Looking at other school shootings that didn’t have SRDs and by the time officers got there, many children were dead.”
Seaside’s Principal Neville said she wrote the letter to bring attention to county residents that private schools do not have paid resource officers.
“It’s not in their budgets, and students should be safe wherever they are,” she said. “I live in Worcester County. I am a taxpayer. I am funding public schools to have resource officers. I would think, as a taxpayer, everyone would want students safe, no matter where they go.”
Neville said her school can’t afford to hire security, and that parents who are employed as police officers have been volunteering as a security presence in Seaside’s parking lot. The school has about 150 students enrolled from pre-K to Grade 12.
“If there’s ever a time where something might require an officer, they call them, and they respond quickly,” she said. “We are kind of in a different position from the other schools, being surrounded by woods and across from an outlet and surrounded by banks. The times we’ve had to lock down our school, it’s because something has happened at the outlets or a bank.”
Worcester Preparatory School in Berlin – despite being mentioned by the sheriff’s office as a third private school – appears not to be involved in the matter, nor interested in getting the help.
“No representatives from Worcester Preparatory School attended the [Oct. 21] County Commissioner's meeting and at this time we do not have any comment,” Head of School Betsy Hornung said in an emailed statement Oct. 24.
By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor
(Oct. 31, 2025) The family of a two-year-old Princess Anne boy who was struck and killed by a Boardwalk tram last year will receive $400,000 and a bench memorial as part of a settlement agreement with the Town of Ocean City.
While denying any wrongdoing regarding the tram accident that claimed the life of a toddler, the city has agreed to pay the child’s family $400,000, according to an Aug. 7 settlement obtained through a Maryland Public Information Act request filed by this newspaper. The city has also agreed to cover the costs of placing the child’s name on a bench plaque as part of the city’s popular Bench Dedication Program.
“Plaintiffs recognize that this re-
lease is entered into by Ocean City, and the Settlement Funds are being paid by Ocean City, as a settlement/compromise in order to avoid expense and litigation, and to terminate all disputes and controversies between the Parties and/or arising from the Occurrence,” the settlement reads.
On Aug. 20, 2024, just after 8 p.m., first responders were called to the Boardwalk near Dorchester Street for a fatal pedestrian collision in the concrete tram lane. The initial investigation revealed the victim, a twoyear-old boy from Princess Anne, was struck by a tram while running from the beach toward the wooden portion of the Boardwalk, also known as Atlantic Avenue.
However, an incident report issued Dec. 9 of last year delves deeper
into the accident on what state officials consider to be a public roadway. Investigators conclude various equipment violations – including improper braking systems and towing capabilities – played some role in the fatality.
“The combination of vehicles and braking systems involved in the collision played a consequential role in the death of [child’s name redacted],” Cpl. Michael Karsnitz, an investigator in the case, reported. “The Jeep and both trailers it was towing was in violation of the Maryland Transportation Article.”
In light of the findings detailed in the incident report, the city announced last week that the tram service would not return to the Boardwalk next year, or any year thereafter. In a meeting last Monday,
Mayor Rick Meehan noted that the challenges of keeping the trams in operation while complying with state transportation laws and licensing requirements “became insurmountable.”
“But what we are doing is the council is looking at – through the city manager and transportation and public works – different options, other things we might be able to do,” he said. “So, the book is open. If there is ever a path for the tram, I think it’s something we’d all want to pursue.”
City Manager Terry McGean also acknowledged last week that the city had been notified by the victim’s family of a potential lawsuit, but that the “matter is now resolved and no litigation was ever filed.” Specifically, both the city and the victim’s family have reached a private agreement, which was settled out of court in early August.
The legal document effectively ends any claims against the city relating to the Aug. 20, 2024, fatality and prevents the victim’s representatives from suing in the future. It also states that Ocean City makes no admission of wrongdoing or liability but acknowledges the tram trailer involved in the incident was maintained by city employees within the Ocean City Service Center.
By Brian Shane Staff Writer
(Oct. 31, 2025) Control of more than $1 million in cannabis taxfunded community grants will shift from Worcester County’s elected officials to a local oversight board – a move that the County Commissioners voted to approve themselves.
In a 5-2 decision, the commissioners voted Oct. 21 to give their Local Management Board, or LMB, authorize to distribute funds. Commissioners Caryn Abbott and Eric Fiori opposed the change, both arguing the commissioners should have more influence over which of the 23 applicants would be deemed qualified to receive grant money.
“Many of us, as individual commissioners, have talked to our community members and that’s where these applications came from,” said Fiori (District 3, West Ocean City). “I requested some of these applications to come in and thought they were good applications. I just don’t know if I’m quite ready to hand it over yet.”
Abbott (District 1, Southern) asked whether small businesses could qualify for the grants. Legislative analyst Charlene Sharpe read from the state’s guidance, and noted the money is not intended for programs like afterschool activities, truancy and absentee intervention, transportation improvements, and more – but not private enterprise.
“Well, I personally would like to be more involved with the decision making than turning it over to the LMB and losing any control or say,” Abbott replied.
Since cannabis sales were legalized in Maryland in 2023, Worcester County has received tax revenue from the state’s Community Reinvestment and Repair Fund, funded by a 12% tax on cannabis sales.
About 35% of that tax revenue by law is funneled into the state’s Community Reinvestment and Repair Fund. Worcester’s share of the fund is 1.219%, and has amounted to $1.17 million over two years: $635,001 in 2024 and $538,563 in 2025, according to county data.
When county staffers sought guidance on how to spend the money, word came down from the state Office of Social Equity that funds should benefit low-income communities and communities disproportionately impacted by drug enforcement.
The county opened its grant application process in June, receiving 23 applications. Nonprofits like We Heart Berlin, Diakonia, and Habitat for Humanity applied. Private busi-
nesses like Hardwire LLC, Pocomoke River Canoe Company, and Davis Strategic Development also applied. All four municipalities in the county applied for grants as well.
However, state policy changes narrowed the scope of eligibility: county officials are being told that cannabis funding should primarily benefit health-related causes instead of community groups. There are also new requirements to incorporate stakeholder input into the grant process and to host a public hearing, according to Sharpe.
Sharpe appeared before the commissioners on Tuesday asking for guidance: either make the grant program fit the new regulations or give the funding to the Local Management Board – an oversight committee for social services – as other jurisdictions have.
On a motion by Commissioner Chip Bertino, the commissioners opted for the latter.
County Administrator Weston Young explained the state’s “community-based initiatives” approach proved too broad, leading officials in Annapolis to tighten regulations on what they intended cannabis revenue to be used for.
Young said this policy change “pulled the rug out” from the grant program that county staff has already put together.
Grant management at the county level would be challenging, too, Young added. He said if every funding requests were granted, it would fall to the county’s budget office to manage and follow up with grantee agencies.
“We’ve struggled with some reimbursement-type grants with singular entities. If we add dozens, potentially, that’s lot of work on our end,” he said.
Each of Maryland’s 23 counties and Baltimore City each have their own Local Management Board, which aims to provide communitybased services and coordinate community grants, with a priority given to children and at-risk families.
“They will be handling the money; they’re geared for these types of programs. But we would like to let them know the community-based initiatives we’ve received. For those who have submitted applications, we want to make sure they don’t go completely unheard. It’ll be for the LMB to decide how the funding gets spent,” Young said.
Notably, some confusion ensued when Commissioner Bertino, who made the motion, stepped out of the room during the vote. The remaining commissioners split the vote 3-3 before realizing Bertino’s absence. Bertino then resumed his seat, and the board took the vote again, yielding a 5-2 decision.
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(Oct. 30, 2025) The Worcester County Veterans Memorial Foundation will have a traditional Veterans Day ceremony on Tuesday, Nov. 11, to honor all who have served in our military.
The ceremony will begin promptly at 11am at the Worcester County Veterans Memorial in Ocean Pines, including patriotic music and a salute to all branches of our Armed Forces.
This year’s guest speaker will be Col. John Fenzel, retired Senior Army Special Forces Officer, who served in both war and peace, extending from Washington D.C. to the Middle East.
The ceremony will also include the dedication of a National Gold Star Memorial, presented to the Worces-
ter County Veterans Memorial by the Worcester County Garden Club, a member of the Garden Club of America and Federated Garden Clubs of Maryland.
“Veterans Day is a day to honor and celebrate all who have served in our military. We are forever indebted to those who were willing to serve to protect our freedoms. We are grateful to the families they left behind while they served,” said Marie Gilmore, president of the Worcester County Veterans Memorial Foundation.
Some seating will be provided, but attendees are recommended to bring a chair. In the event of inclement weather, the ceremony will move to the Ocean Pines Community Center.
For more information about the Worcester County Veterans Memorial Foundation and the Worcester County Veterans Memorial, visit www.WoCoVets.org. Veterans Day ceremony set for Nov. 11 at memorial location in Ocean Pines
By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor
(Oct. 31, 2025) State Sen. Mary Beth Carozza (R-38) continues to push the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) to reject the Maryland offshore wind energy project once and for all.
In a letter issued Oct. 16, Carozza urged Eugenio Piñeiro-Soler, director of NOAA Fisheries – a federal agency that consults with the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management on offshore projects – to halt offshore wind development off Maryland’s coast. The correspondence comes less than a month after NOAA represen-
tatives visited Ocean City for a meeting with local leaders and commercial watermen to discuss their concerns about US Wind’s proposed project, which will start roughly 10 miles off the coast of Ocean City.
“Those in attendance were very encouraged by your remarks and look forward to a final rejection of US Wind’s wind energy project off Ocean City, as well as any new future attempts,” the letter reads.
The letter is the latest in a series of missives local officials have sent to federal agencies in their attempts to thwart the developer’s plans for a 114turbine wind farm. The project’s approvals are now at risk of being vacated by the Trump administration while a lawsuit filed by Ocean City and several named co-plaintiffs plays out in federal court.
For her part, Carozza shared her constituents’ opposition to offshore wind, as well as her appreciation for NOAA’s visit to the area Sept. 24. During that offshore wind summit, stakeholders were able to speak directly with NOAA scientists about the impacts wind turbines could have on fisheries.
It was also at that meeting that NOAA representatives encouraged participants to send additional information on last year’s Congressional field hearing held in Ocean City, during which attendees shared concerns about the impacts the offshore wind development could have on the environment, marine life, economy and more. As part of her letter, Carozza shared testimony from that meeting, as well as her frustrations with the approval process.
“I have continuously and publicly expressed my concerns at every opportunity, as have others in our community, but permits have been granted at both the state and federal levels with seemingly no consideration of our input or our requests to consider the many disastrous impacts, including the dangers of placing offshore wind turbines in hurricane alley,” her letter reads. “Despite the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM)’s admission to several negative impacts of OSW in their required Environmental Impact Study, those impacts were most often dismissed as unlikely to occur or limited and, therefore, insufficient reason to deny a permit.”
Ultimately, Carozza appealed to Piñeiro-Soler to take some action to stop offshore wind. She pointed to the impact it would have on fishing, boating, marine life, military communications, and Maryland ratepayers, to name a few.
“As someone raised in Ocean City and who now represents Maryland’s Coast in the Maryland State Senate, I believe it is my moral obligation to do all I can to protect our shore way of life, which today is threatened by these expansive offshore energy projects,” she wrote. “On behalf of my constituents, I urge a complete stop to the development of offshore wind energy off Maryland’s Coast.”
US Wind has stated its approvals followed applicable laws and that efforts to vacate those approvals violated both its rights and federal statutes. In a federal court filing earlier this month, US Wind also shared that attempts to stop the project could bankrupt the company.
By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor
(Oct. 31, 2025) Plans to repair the Route 50 bridge and demolish the 5th Street post office in Ocean City highlighted a fall update for the mayor and Ocean City Counil from Maryland State Highway Administration (SHA) officials.
District Engineer Mark Crampton and SHA representatives attended Tuesday’s work session to provide the mayor and council with the most recent news on projects taking place in and around Ocean City.
Among the list of items, he said, was a project to repair the interlocking mechanisms on the Route 50 bridge. Work is slated to begin in early January and will result in the span’s closure for a period of two or three weeks.
“In that case, the bridge is actually open while that bridge work is being done,” he told the council this week. “So, the traffic will have to use the Route 90 bridge during that period of time.”
Crampton added that the Route 50 bridge will also be painted in the coming year. While the bridge will remain in the closed position for the duration of the work, he said large marine vessels would be affected, as scaffolding would be placed under the span.
“It will take a majority of the January to March timeframe,” he said of the project.
To the north, Crampton said the next phase in the Route 90 improvement project will begin next July. He said the agency will conduct a National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) study.
Intersection improvements expected to cause traffic issues due to widening
By Brian Shane Staff Writer
(Oct. 31, 2025) Drivers in Worcester County can expect delays at the intersection of Routes 50 and 589 until next spring as construction begins on a new commercial center and apartment complex for the West Ocean City corridor.
Starting Nov. 1, intersection improvements are planned for the south side of Route 50 at Racetrack Road (Route 589), including widening and resurfacing of highway lanes, as well as adding a fourth leg to the intersection, according to the State Highway Administration.
Open 4pm Friday & Saturday
Crews will also remove the traffic signal at Brader Lane, the short road that leads traffic to Samuel Bowen Boulevard and the existing Ocean Landings shopping center anchored by Pet Smart, Michaels, and Aldi.
Motorists also can expect 24-hour single-lane closures and flagging operations throughout the duration of the project, scheduled to continue through early 2026.
It’s all part of the opening phase of construction for the 120,500-squarefoot Coastal Square commercial development, a mixed-use project that will include a Giant supermarket, apartments, and other retail. Seven additional parcels bordering Route 50 will be set aside for future tenants.
Bill Krapf, the chief development officer from developer LC Management, said they have broken ground
on the project and the Giant is expected to open its doors a year from now.
While a site plan for the apartments has yet to clear the approval process with Worcester County planning officials, the 168-unit complex on the property’s west side as presented would include seven buildings, three stories each, with eight units per floor.
Eventually, the project will be anchored by a traffic roundabout, one that acts as an extension of Route 589 that cuts across Route 50 onto the development.
Approved in fall 2023 by Worcester County officials, the shopping center’s site plans have since been scrutinized by the Baltimore District of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers for possible environmental impacts.
The corps’ evaluation of possible impacts on wildlife found that the project could have a negative effect on the endangered tricolored bat and the threatened monarch butterfly.
The developer agreed to preserve wetlands, restore any disturbed wetlands restoration, or buy restoration credits from an approved mitigation bank.
An earlier site plan had the Giant planned for the east side of the 49acre property, with nothing at the time proposed for the west side. Now, the apartments are planned for the west side.
Continued from Page 18
“That’s the next big phase in planning efforts to gauge the environmental impacts,” he explained.
Crampton also discussed resurfacing plans, maintenance projects, and the 5th Street post office building, which will be demolished in the next year to make way for additional parking. City officials have asked that SHA grant them permission to install two access points off Coastal Highway, which may not comply with design standards.
“We’re going to do what we can,” he said.
When asked if the property would be connected to an existing parking lot at 4th Street, Public Works Director Hal Adkins said it would be connected by an alley. He said it was the city’s desire to replicate that 4th Street lot at 5th Street, and to install 58 new parking spots.
Earlier this year, it was announced the U.S. Postal Service would be moving its downtown operations to 102 Worcester Street, a property owned by the Ocean City Development Corporation.
Once home to businesses such as Duffy’s Love Shack and Worcester Street Brewing Company, the building has sat vacant for years. However, the corporation has overseen extensive renovation work to transform the building into a mixed-use development, with the post office on the first floor and employee housing on the second.
(Oct. 31, 2025) The Ocean Pines Public Works Department will collect bagged leaves from Nov. 24 through Dec. 31.
Bagged leaves will be picked up on days opposite of Republic Services’ regularly scheduled collection days:
If your trash is collected on Mondays and Thursdays, bagged leaves will be picked up on Tuesdays and Fridays
If your trash is collected on Tuesdays and Fridays, bagged leaves will be picked up on Mondays and Thursdays.
In addition, Republic Services will offer six curbside leaf collection days
during the months of November and December. The schedule is as follows: Northside: Nov. 8 and 22, Dec. 12 Southside: Nov. 15, Dec. 6 and 20 Leaves must be placed in paper bags only – no plastic bags. 30-gallon paper bags can be purchased at the Public Works Building in bundles of 5 for $10 plus tax.
The Public Works Yard will be open for yard waste Monday through Saturday, 8 a.m. to 3 p.m., from Nov. 24 through Jan. 3. The yard will be closed Nov. 27-29, Dec. 24-26, and Jan. 1.
For more information, contact Public Works at 410-641-7425.
The Ocean City Lioness Lions Club donated 171 pieces of packaged food that they collected to the St. Paul’s by-the-Sea Shepherd’s Crook for their food pantry. Pictured above are Cecelia Muneses, Lioness Joann Warren, Lioness Lions Club President Donna Greenwood and Debbie Andrew. SUBMITTED PHOTO/ OC TODAY-DISPATCH
By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor
(Oct. 31, 2025) After a couple of years of enduring stormy seas, the next White Marlin Open will allow for that and expand to a six-day tournament.
On Tuesday, White Marlin Open organizers announced the yearly tournament would undergo a major update for 2026. For the first time in tournament history, participants will be able to fish three out of six days, rather than the traditional three out of five.
“Unpredictable weather patterns have made it increasingly difficult for teams to plan their fishing days,” Madelyne Motsko, tournament director, said in a news release. “By extending the window to six days, we’re giving every crew a better chance to compete under fair and favorable conditions.”
An additional fishing day will be added to the end of next year’s tournament, which will be held Monday, Aug. 3, through Saturday, Aug. 8. By adding Saturday as an optional fishing day, tournament organizers say it will provide greater flexibility for anglers, who in recent years have been forced to make last-minute adjustments in the wake of poor weather conditions.
Just this year, for example, the tournament extended to seven days after it was announced offshore wind conditions were forecasted to worsen later in the week. Last year’s tournament was also extended by a day due to offshore wave conditions.
Dubbed the “world’s largest and richest billfishing tournament,” the White Marlin Open has awarded more than $121 million in prize money since its inception. The first tournament was held in 1974 and drew 57 boats, 150 anglers, and paid out $20,000. The 2025 event, in comparison, drew 282 boats, more than 3,000 contestants, and awarded over $7.24 million, including the top individual prize of $3.9 million dollars.
Registration for the 2026 White Marlin Open will take place Saturday, Aug. 1, and Sunday, Aug. 2, at Harbour Island Marina in Ocean City. The tournament kicks off Aug. 3 and concludes Aug. 8. In addition to the sixth day, organizers this week announced next year’s tournament would include a “non sonar” added entry.
“With millions in prize money on the line and a growing international field of competitors, the White Marlin Open continues to evolve while preserving the spirit and prestige that has defined it for over five decades,” a news release from the White Marlin Open reads.
By Tara Fischer Staff Writer
(Oct. 30, 2025) Fines will increase for drivers caught on camera exceeding the posted speed limit in Berlin, officials said this week.
At a Berlin mayor and council meeting on Monday, Oct. 27, town attorney David Gaskill and Police Chief Arnold Downing announced that motorists can expect steeper violation fees if they exceed the speed limit in the areas in town where speed cameras are stationed—Flower Street at Railroad Avenue, Flower Street at
Peach Lane, and Seahawk Road near Stephen Decatur High School.
The posted legal speed limit in these areas is 25 miles per hour. When the devices were installed last year, violators driving 12 mph or more over the maximum faced a $40 citation. Now, per state law, these tickets will be increased, with violations adjusted, depending on exactly how fast a car is going.
Gaskill said that rates will remain at $40 if a vehicle is between 12 and 15 miles per hour over the speed limit. A motorist will be charged $70 if they’re between 16 and 19 miles per
hour over, $120 for going between 20 and 29 miles per hour over, $230 for going between 30 and 39 miles per hour over, and $425 for driving 40 miles per hour over the speed limit.
Berlin Mayor Zack Tyndall asked Downing how often the cameras catch someone traveling at the highest speeds, such as 40 miles per hour over the posted limit. The police chief maintained that it's not often, if ever. The fastest car was clocked at 70 miles per hour coming off the highway onto Seahawk Road.
“The thought was that the person was shooting across to try to catch the light,”
Downing said. “We don’t anticipate a lot [of cars] going over the first two tiers.”
The Berlin Town Council maintained that the changes are not the municipality’s decision but rather an adjustment to comply with a new state law modifying the fee structure, which was signed into law by Gov. Wes Moore this spring and officially took effect on Oct. 1.
This week’s discussion on the matter in Berlin was a first reading of the ordinance. A public hearing regarding the speed citation topic is scheduled for Monday, Nov. 10, at the mayor and council’s regularly scheduled meeting.
SUBMITTED PHOTOS/OC TODAY-DISPATCH HOUSING CEREMONY
During an open house last Sunday, members of the Berlin Fire Company held a “housing ceremony” to retire the 1988 Engine 607 with the new 2025 Engine 6, which cost $977,730 unequipped. The ceremony involved pulling out the old engine, top, and pushing into place the new apparatus.
(Oct. 31, 2025) A strong and passionate group of Ford Bronco enthusiasts will come to Ocean City this weekend, Oct. 31-Nov. 2, to enjoy all it has to offer.
This event features early morning beach crawls where you will see the Broncos driving on the sands of Ocean City from downtown to 30th Street where they will exit. As the sun is rising, the Broncos are riding.
A unique component is the Bronco Beach Bash sand course. They traverse mild obstacles built by professional company Delmarva Jeep Events. There will be one beach crawl per day. Friday will have three sand course shifts. That night,
the Bronco community gathers at Blu Crab House for a Halloween party where the Broncos and their owners will be in costume. There will be awards and prizes for best Bronco costume and individual costumes.
The party at Blu Crab House is also open to the public — it is a costume contest for all who wish to join. Saturday you will also see an early morning beach crawl. This year, the vendors will be located at the convention center in conjunction with the OC RV Show. You will have special deals on-site by Audio Works, Kickr, BWT Offroad, and Treetop Designs. You will also see the newest Ford
Broncos and other amazing Ford vehicles from the title sponsor, Pittsville Ford.
From 10 a.m. to noon, you will see a Show & Shine competition. You will see the Bronco owners showing off their custom creations — from old school to new school and everything in between. You can also check out Eastern Shore Bronco Restorations and their amazing one-off builds.
On Saturday afternoon, there will be two sand course shifts. Saturday evening, at Morley Hall in Seacrets, check out the Bronco Beach Bash Movie brought to you by Live Wire Media & Events.
From 6 to 8 p.m., this is an annual highlight of the event where the Bronco participants are filmed by day and can be
seen on the big screen at Morley Hall at night.
Closing out the weekend on Sunday, the Broncos will be set to ride off into the sunset like a great western movie, spending one more day at the Convention Center and with more beach activities.
Bronco Beach Bash is sponsoring the OC RV Show and enjoys the great outdoors that this event embraces.
If you are still interested in registering your Bronco or for more details, go to www.broncobeachbash.com or come to the convention center in the front lot to register on-site.
Hours for the event at the convention center are Friday and Saturday, 10 a.m.6 p.m., and Sunday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
By Tara Fischer Staff Writer
(Oct. 30, 2025) Improved phone service is headed to Ocean Pines, as last week the community’s governing board authorized the signing of a site lease agreement with a company to construct a cell phone tower to remedy poor, unreliable reception.
At an Ocean Pines Association’s Board of Directors meeting on Saturday, Oct. 25, the board agreed unanimously to take the next step in enhancing the spotty cell phone reception in Ocean Pines, an issue that has plagued the wooded community for years.
OPA will enter into a contract with the Virginia-based company Milestone Towers to build the 143-foot structure resembling a tree behind the maintenance facility at the Ocean Pines Golf Course. Officials said that this site was selected due to its central location.
“I have confirmed that it is going to look like a tree and it is going to blend in, trying to keep that beauty that we’ve come to know here in Ocean Pines,” said Tim Robinson, Ocean Pines’ police chief, on Saturday.
Milestone Towers will put up the tower at their cost and satisfy a one-time fee to Ocean Pines of about $20,000. The new addition will also yield yearly revenue for OPA, Robinson added. The cell phone carriers will pay rent for use of the structure, 40% of which will go right into Ocean Pines’ pocket.
According to the police chief, all three major carriers —Verizon, AT&T, and TMobile — are planning to come on board. If this remains the case, the Pines will secure about $35,000 annually.
Residents can expect the tower’s construction to be complete around November 2026. With a signed contract, Milestone Towers will be responsible for each step from here on out.
“They’re going to take care of everything, like the permits,” Robinson said. “Once [the lease agreement] is signed, it’s all in their hands.”
A cell phone tower was proposed by the Ocean Pines police chief last year, when he noticed just how fickle reception could be within the community, especially during holidays and busy summer weekends. He said this was particularly alarming from a public safety perspective, as emergency calls were at a risk of failing.
As such, Robinson has spearheaded the cell tower project to ensure that OPA citizens may not only get in touch with their friends and family without dropped calls, but that they can reach 911 in life’s more dire situations.
Representatives from Milestone Towers and Verizon have held informational sessions over the past few months to get the public up to speed on the initiative. In September, Paul Plymouth, Director of State and Local
(Oct. 31, 2025) The Art League of Ocean City reminds runners, walkers, and families the last day to receive a free “Color Run for the Arts” t-shirt with registration is Oct. 31, 2025.
The inaugural Color Run event is scheduled for Saturday, Nov. 15, at Veterans Memorial Park in Ocean Pines. The day includes a 5K run for all ages, a two-mile walk for all ages, and kids’ fun run for ages nine and under.
The event benefits the community programs of the nonprofit Art League. The costs to participate are $15 for the kids’ fun run and $25 for all ages for either the 5K run or the two-mile walk. More information and registration are available at OCart.org/colorrun or by calling the Art League at 410-524-9433.
Check-in begins at 8 a.m., with the kids’ fun run at 9 a.m. The 5K Color Run takes off at 9:30 a.m. A two-mile walk around the scenic South Gate Pond starts at 10 a.m.
During a color run, runners and walkers wear white tee shirts at the start of the race or walk. As they maneuver the course, they will be doused in a rainbow of colored powder. The colors and nontoxic chalk, safe on the skin and for the environment, and simply wash off. Participants are encouraged to wear sunglasses and bandanas for protection.
Also included in the event are an artisan marketplace, music, raffles, Grateful Grub food truck, and Kona Ice truck.
Sponsors for the Color Run for the Arts to date include Sunsations, Matt The Carpet Guy, Sea Glass Pools, The Harrison Group, Chesapeake Home Services, Tidal Health, Chesapeake Enrichment Foundation, Landmark Insurance and Financial Group, and Hertrich GMC of Salisbury.
for Verizon, came to a board meeting where he guaranteed that the cell structure will improve reception for the entire community.
A previous graphic had board members and residents confused, as it appeared that only those within a one-mile radius of the tower would benefit. However, Plymouth last month maintained that while these homeowners would be in the direct path, the structure would work to ultimately alleviate congestion, clearing up space for every member of the neighborhood to feel an improvement in reception.
Now, that refined cell service nears fruition, with the OPA board’s decision to authorize a site lease agreement with Milestone Towers. More information will be presented to the community as it becomes available.
Licensed in MD & DE
CRS, GRI, LPS, RSPS, MRP Direct: 805-444-0144 Gregg.holland@cbrealty.com • www.GreggHolland.com
A local volunteer effort led by the Chesapeake Region Chapter of the Community Associations Institute (CAI) made a major impact on Ocean City’s shoreline this month. The Oct. 23 beach cleanup brought together 19 volunteers who fanned out across eight city blocks of beach, boardwalk, and side streets. In just two hours, the group collected more than 150 pounds of trash. The Town of Ocean City provided cleanup materials, while the Ocean City Beach Patrol assisted with transportation and collection of full trash bags and large debris.
(Oct. 30, 2025) Through a funded mini-grant from the Worcester County Health Department, nonprofit Worcester Youth & Family Counseling Services Inc. (WYFCS) is proud to offer a free food pantry box.
Starting on Nov. 4, the agency’s location at 124 N. Main St., Suite C. in Berlin will be hosting the “Healthy Little Food Pantry,” where residents can access shelf-stable foods with a focus on overall health. This pantry is in the rear of the building and will be open 24 hours a day, seven days a week for food access.
‘No one should feel shame for caring for their basic needs.’
Rachel Mitchell, WYFCS coordinator
“Our goal is to create an accessible food source for everyone. Sometimes folks don’t get off work until late and cannot access a traditional food pantry. Others feel a level of embarrassment in accessing free food at all … our discreet location for this pantry is meant to help alleviate those feelings,” said Rachel Mitchell, WYFCS coordinator. “No one should feel shame for caring for their basic needs.”
The Healthy Little Food Pantry is sponsored by the Worcester County Health Department as a mini-grant
due to funding from CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield. Also funded by this mini-grant is another food pantry box, located at Community Behavioral Health in Snow Hill; community garden assistance in Snow Hill, Pocomoke City, and Newark; seed libraries available at the Pocomoke, Berlin, and Snow Hill libraries; and Pop-Up Farmers markets occurring in Berlin, sponsored by Cross Farms. Healthy cooking and shopping courses, called “Cooking Up Health” courses, are taught by the University of Maryland Extension and the Worcester County Health Department. The class will next be offered starting November 10th at 2pm at the Berlin Library.
Members of the community are encouraged to visit the Health Department’s landing page for the Cooking Up Health program to learn more, located at bit.ly/cookinguphealthwchd. For questions and more information on Worcester Youth & Family’s outreach programs, please reach out to them at 410-641-4598 or at shine@gowoyo.org.
By Tara Fischer Staff Writer
(Oct. 31, 2025) The Worcester County Public Schools community is split on the system’s allowance of the politically charged Turning Point USA chapter at Stephen Decatur High School. An onslaught of citizen comments at last week’s board of education meeting highlighted this divide.
Turning Point USA was founded in 2012 by the late conservative and controversial political activist, Charlie Kirk, who was murdered on Sept. 10 during an event and debate at Utah Valley University.
Kirk’s murder has been deemed an act of political violence, furthering the volatile energy on both sides of the aisle. The incident has also led to an increased interest in Kirk’s organization. As “Fortune” reported last month, Turning Point has received 60,000 inquiries about new chapters on high school and college campuses.
The ramifications of Kirk’s assassination have reached Worcester County, where a group of students at SDHS has spearheaded its own chapter of TPUSA’s high school program.
According to the organization’s website, “Turning Point USA High School is the largest and most impactful youth movement for promoting freedom-loving, American values. Students champion these initiatives by
organizing into student-led chapters and activism hubs.”
That club’s formation has been met with strong support and opposition, with many questioning the morality of the affiliation and whether the Worcester County Board of Education and SDHS’s administrative team should permit such a group.
The divide within Worcester County on the issue was on full display last week, at the school system’s board of education meeting on Thursday, Oct. 23.
County resident Pam Hay was first to speak during the gathering’s public comments segment. Hay, who said she has lived and worked in Worcester for 53 years, expressed her opposition to Decatur’s Turning Point chapter.
“First, I would like to thank Tamara Mills (WCPS Coordinator of Instruction), because she described how the decision was made to allow Turning Point into Stephen Decatur’s afterschool clubs,” Hay said.
“However, somewhere in that explanation was the sentence that clubs should cause no harm at all. But the origin of this particular program, Turning Point, is not very inclusive; in fact, it’s a pretty divisive group that started this program…They are anti anyone who doesn’t believe what they believe. My question is, who is monitoring what’s being said? My hope is that this
is a flash in the pan and it goes away fast.”
Patrick Whaley, an alumnus of SDHS who owns property in Berlin, said that he drove four hours from Pennsylvania to protest the TPUSA team. Whaley argued that schools are a facility to learn, not a place where political groups meet, particularly ones like Turning Point, which he said promotes hate.
“We all know what Charlie Kirk stood for,” Whaley said. “Some say he was Christian, and he taught Christian values. But there’s a scripture that tells us about love. When you preach hate against different groups, against Black people, against LGBTQ people, people who are not white, that is not love. I am here to protest. If we do anything, we need to have a club that preaches unity. And I feel that this club is not about unity.”
Debra Fisher Reynolds, a retired teacher, expressed a similar sentiment.
“Turning Point USA claims they promote free speech and debate, but instead promote hate, violence, bullying, and threatening students who are different,” she said. “As a right-wing group promoting bigotry and fascist ideology, the way politics in the United States has become so polarized and partisan is deeply worrying and ultimately a threat to American democracy and student safety in our schools.”
Berlin resident Marie Velong, who noted that both of her children graduated from Decatur, said she was worried about the precedent set by approving TPUSA for high school students. Velong argued that while Turning Point is a discussion group—an essential aspect of civil engagement—it is also deeply partisan.
“[TPUSA] is a national organization known for, at times, divisive tactics, including targeting of teachers and students who hold different views,” she said. “True education depends on intellectual diversity—the free and respectful exchange of many perspectives. If the chapter remains, I urge the board to ensure balance by approving a counterpoint organization. Our schools should be places for dialogue, not division, for critical thinking, not campaigning. Upholding intellectual diversity means giving every student the confidence to speak, question, and learn without fear of bias. I ask the board to reconsider approving the TPUSA chapter or to encourage the formation of a complementary club. I think that’s one of the things that’s good about the club, the civic awareness, but it’s too slanted.”
Velong also claimed that TPUSA has a watchlist of schools and teachers that do not hold similar values to the conservative organization, undermining its commitment of free speech.
According to a Sept. 13 report by The Baltimore Sun, TPUSA initiated a professor watchlist project in 2016. The group says that this inventory was taken of teachers who have discriminated against conservative students.
“The project consists of published news stories detailing instances of bias, propaganda, or speech infringement on college campuses,” the professor watchlist website reads. “We only publish profiles on incidents that have been reported and published via a credible source. TPUSA will continue to fight for free speech and the right of professors to say whatever they believe; however, students, parents, and alumni deserve to know the specific incidents and names of professors that advance a radical agenda in our lecture halls.”
While much of the board of education’s public comments were flooded with TPUSA protestors, many came out in support of the Decatur club.
“I’m not sure what everybody’s afraid of with TPUSA,” said Worcester resident Peter Ostrowski, “As I read the mission statement of TPSUS, it’s to ‘identify, educate, train, and organize students to promote the principles of freedom, free markets, and limited government.’ I’m not sure why that spooks people.”
Worcester County Commissioner Caryn Abbott was also present at last Thursday’s meeting, urging the board
to support the student organization. Earlier this month, the county commissioners proclaimed Sept. 10 as Charlie Kirk Day.
“Charlie Kirk was murdered for his Christian faith, comprehensive knowledge of the Constitution, and the belief that America is the beacon of hope, liberty, and freedom of speech for all,” Abbott said. “He taught countless youths across this nation to embrace American ideals, engage civilly with those they disagree with, and open debate, arming themselves with facts and reason. He knew that when people stop talking, violence happens. I applaud the administration at Stephen Decatur for sanctioning the students’ trip to the commissioners the day we presented the [Charlie Kirk Day] proclamation. We need to encourage future leaders in our schools.”
Also present at the board meeting was 20-year-old Colin McEvers, the president of the Salisbury University chapter of TPUSA. McEvers said that Turning Point’s mission is to engage the public in debate and dialogue, a practice required to maintain American democracy. The student said he resents that members of Turning Point are referred to as extremists, and that the organization’s very vision contradicts that claim.
“Engaging in discussion, having conversations, political discourse, none of that is fascistic, racist, discriminatory, or any of the things that people are accusing [TPUSA] of being,” he said. “If we suppress the opinions of students, that breeds more division, more partisanship, more hatred between people. We need more discussion, more political discourse. We need
all these things because if we do not, people will only hate each other more. We live in a very polarized society, and if we do not actually sit down and have conversations with people, which is exactly why this club was formed, then we will not be able to have good relationships with each other.”
Some community members have questioned whether a politically charged student club is allowed to operate. Officials said earlier this month that the TPUSA chapter is not schoolsanctioned, but it may meet on the school system’s property during OutOf-School-Time (OST), granted it follows specific guidelines.
For instance, the club’s application had to come from interested students, not adults, the group had to be led by the young learners, and parent permission slips were to be signed.
BURLEY OAK BREWING COMPANY
443-513-4647
10016 Old Ocean City Blvd., Berlin Saturday, November 1: TBA
BUXY’S SALTY DOG & DRY DOCK 28
410-289-BUXY
28th Street Coastal Hwy. Friday,October 31: Johnny Cardo
CAPTAIN’S TABLE
410-289-7192
15th & Boardwalk In The Courtyard Marriott Fridays & Saturdays: Phil Perdue
COINS PUB
410-289-3100
28th Street Plaza On Coastal Hwy. Friday, October 31: DJ Giddy Up Saturday, November 1: Monkee Paw
CRABCAKE FACTORY BAYSIDE
302-988-5000
37314 Lighthouse Rd., Rte. 54, Selbyville, DE Friday, October 31: Medium Wave Jay Wednesday, November 5: Uncle Ward
CRAWL STREET TAVERN
443-373-2756
Wicomico St., Downtown O.C. Friday, October 31: LNJ Sessions Saturday, November 1: The Rogue Citizens
FAGER’S ISLAND
410-524-5500
60th St., In The Bay Friday, October 31: Big Machine, Shake The Room & DJ RobCee Saturday, November 1: Betty White Stripes & DJ Vybe Monday, November 3: Bryan Clark
UNDER THE COVERS
Purple Moose: Friday & Saturday, Oct. 31 & Nov. 1 BIG MACHINE
THE BENDERZ
Seacrets: Friday, Oct. 31
PAW
Coins Pub: Saturday, Nov. 1
FULL CIRCLE DUO
Seacrets: Friday, Oct. 31
Island: Friday, Oct. 31
Harborside: Saturday, Nov. 1 • 1pm
Crawl Street Tavern: Saturday, Nov. 1 • 9pm
THE DUNEHOUNDS
Pub: Saturday, Nov. 1
BETTY WHITE STRIPES
Island: Saturday, Nov. 1
GREENE TURTLE WEST
410-213-1500
Route 611, West OC
Friday, October 31: DJ Wood
HARBORSIDE
410-213-1846
South Harbor Rd., West End O.C.
Friday, October 31: DJ Billy T
Saturday, November 1:
The Rogue Citizens & Brian K. Hall
Sunday, November 2: Opposite Directions
Thursdays: Dust N Bones
PICKLES PUB
410-289-4891
8th St. & Philadelphia Ave.
Fridays: Beats By Deogee
Saturday, November 1:
The Dunehounds
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
Friday & Saturday, October 31 & November 1: Under The Covers
SEACRETS
410-524-4900
49th St. & Coastal Hwy.
Friday, October 31: Full Circle, DJ Mary Jane, DJ E-State & The Benderz
Saturday, November 1: DJ Connair, The Whiskeyhickon Boys & Kristen & The Noise
Thursday, November 6: Carley Twigg & DJ Davie
■ PRICE RANGE: $, $$, $$$
■ RESERVATIONS: Reservations accepted
South end to 28th Street
■ BUXY’S SALTY DOG SALOON
DRY DOCK 28
28th Street, Ocean City, 410-289-0973, buxys.com, drydockoc.com
Destiny has a new home in Ocean City. From the ‘burgh to the beach, Buxy’s is your home away from Pittsburgh. Come see what all the locals already know and have known – Buxy’s is the place to come to meet friends, relax and be social with no attitudes. House specialties include “The” Cheesesteak Sub, Primanti-styled sandwiches, pierogis, egg-rolls and homemade crab dip. Dry Dock also features a full menu with soups, salads, kick starters, pierogis and craft pizza.
■ CAPTAIN’S TABLE
15th Street and Baltimore Avenue, in The Courtyard by Marriott, Ocean City 410-2897192, captainstableoc.com
$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar
A local tradition for over 60 years featuring hand cut steaks, premium lobster and perfectly prepared regional seafood. Breakfast daily
7:30-11 a.m. Open daily for dinner: Sunday through Thursday, 4-9 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 4-10 p.m. Happy Hour, seven days a week, 4-6 p.m.
■ COINS PUB & RESTAURANT
28th Street Plaza and Coastal Highway, Ocean City 410-289-3100, www.coinspuboc.com
$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar
American style local restaurant serving seafood, steaks and chefs specials. Check out the off season weekday specials. Early bird; daily, 2-5:30 p.m. Sunday’s early bird specials, all day and all night. Happy Hour; daily, 2-5:30 p.m. with food and drink specials. Open Monday through Friday, 2 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday, 11:30 a.m. Dine-in, carry out.
■ CORAL REEF RESTAURANT & BAR
17th Street in the Holiday Inn & Suites, Ocean City 410-289-2612, coralreefrestaurant.com
$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar
Enjoy traditional Eastern Shore cuisine and local favorites that are sure to please your entire party! Choose from a selection of house specialty entrees such as sharables, handhelds and seafood. Serving breakfast, lunch and dinner. Featuring specialty rums. Open daily, 7:30 a.m. to 9 p.m.
■ CRAWL STREET
19 Wicomico St., Ocean City, 443-373-2756, crawlstreet.com
Established in 2020 just a short walk from the legendary Cork Bar. Don’t leave without trying the famous wings, but everything on the menu is solid, including flatbreads, tacos, salads, sandwiches and seafood platters. Be sure to check out the live music offerings as the nightlife is top of the line.
■ DISTRICT 24 CRAFT BAR, JAY’S CAFÉ & BLU CRABHOUSE & RAW BAR
2305 Philadelphia Ave., Ocean City 410-2893322, district24oc.com
There is more at District 24. Enjoy breakfast, lunch, pastries and coffee at Jay’s Cafe. CRAFT Pizza, Beer & Cocktails at CRAFT Lounge. Fresh Seafood at BLU Crabhouse & Raw Bar. Enjoy an elevated dining experience with great chophouse dishes and charcuterie boards, along with a Wine Spectator Award Wining Wine Menu at Embers Rooftop Restaurant. There is something for everyone at District 24 like live music in the courtyard, mini golf, arcade play and axe throwing.
■ HARBOR WATCH
806 S. Atlantic Avenue, Ocean City 410-2895121, www.harborwatchrestaurant.com
$$-$$$ | Reservations | Kids’ Menu | Full bar
Celebrating our 41st anniversary with fresh seafood, an award-winning raw bar, mouthwatering steaks and the best view of the Ocean City Inlet and Assateague Island. Open Thursday through Sunday at 11:30 a.m. Call for banquet and large-party details.
■ PICKLES PUB
706 Philadelphia Ave., Ocean City, 410-2894891, picklesoc.com
$$ | 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.
29th to 90th streets
■ 32 PALM 32nd Street in The Hilton, Ocean City 410-2892525, 32palm.com
$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar
Elevated cuisine, locally sourced ingredients and allocated spirits are prominently featured in our lounge and dining room. Open year-round for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Routinely updated menus with the highest quality local ingredients for fresh seafood any time of the year!
■ THE BONFIRE
71st Street, Coastal Hwy., Ocean City, 410524-7171, thebonfirerestaurant.com
Celebrating more than 50 years as the best seafood and prime rib buffet in Ocean City. It’s all here – the service, the atmosphere and finest, freshest seafood available and quality meats. Save room for the decadent desserts available as well including homemade donuts.
■ FAGERS ISLAND
201 60th St., Ocean City, 410-524-5500, fagers.com
$$ | Full bar
Dine on the island with an award-winning bayfront restaurant featuring American & Regional dining with a global influence and popular destination featuring impeccably prepared American and Pacific Rim cuisine. Also enjoy our outdoor decks and bar with live entertainment and 32 wines by the glass. A place where the joy of food & the presence of the table are of utmost importance. Dine on fresh seafood and our famous Prime Rib. Enjoy beautiful sunsets over the water. Open 11 a.m. daily. Fine dine at 4:30 p.m.
■ HOOKED
8003 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, 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, lo-
cally 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
$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar
Featuring consistent hot steamed crabs, eat in or carryout. The Crab Bag is also an Eastern Shore style seafood house specializing in preparing and serving the biggest and the best blue crabs available. The extensive menu promises something for everyone. Winter hours, Friday-Sunday, open 11 a.m.
■ CRABCAKE FACTORY USA
120th Street, oceanside, Ocean City, 410-2504900, crabcakefactoryusa.com
Full-service family restaurant, carry-out and sports bar. Outside seating available. Menu selections include prime rib, chicken Chesapeake, steamed shrimp, beer battered fish, real Philly cheesesteaks, burgers, and a kids menu. Casual attire, full liquor bar, no reservations. Open Year Round. World-Famous Crabcakes are served all day starting at 8 a.m. and can be packed on ice for you while you are eating breakfast.
■ CHESAPEAKE & CAPRI
9800 Coastal Highway Plaza Condominium, Ocean City 443-664-6147
Enjoy oceanfront dining, mouth-watering dishes and handcrafted cocktails. Our menu is designed to delight. Amazing food with an ocean front view. Thursday and Sunday, $21 entrée specials like blacked rockfish and several pasta dishes. Open Thursday through Sunday at 4 p.m. Happy hour offered in the offseason from 4-6 p.m. Located on the first floor of the Plaza with plenty of free, convenience parking.
■ VISTA ROOFTOP RESTAURANT
13801 Coastal Highway, located in the Fenwick Inn, Ocean City, 410-390-7905, vistarooftopoc.com
$$-$$$ | Full bar
Enjoy a wonderful meal overlooking the ocean and bay. Some of the most unique views in Ocean City. Steaks, seafood, burgers, soups, salads and lite fare. Happy hour, 3-6 p.m. New this year is a boozy brunch Saturdays and Sundays, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Live music.
■ CRABCAKE FACTORY BAYSIDE
Route 54, Fenwick Island, DE, 302-988-5000, CCFBayside.com
Same award-winning crab cakes and bloody marys. Enjoy waterfront dining. Full-service family restaurant, carry-out & sports bar. Outside
seating available. Open daily year-round. Menu selections include crab cakes, prime rib, Phillystyle cheese steaks, various seafood, kids menu plus full breakfast menu.
■ DIRTY HARRY’S
100 Coastal Highway, Fenwick Island, DE, 302-539-3020, Beach-net.com/dirtyharrys
$ | Kids’ Menu | Full bar
Don’t let the name fool you, the food is home cooking at its finest. Owned and operated by Ginny Swann and family for 19 years. Popular for the breakfast but getting rave reviews for lunch and dinner, too.
■ NANTUCKETS
Route 1, Fenwick Island, DE, 302-539-2607, nantucketsrestaurant.com
Serving the beach great food and spirits for over 30 years. David and Janet Twining will wow you with the finest foods and drinks in the area. You’ll be pleasantly surprised by what one of the coast’s finest dining establishments has in store for guests. Everything here is a house specialty.
■ TWINING’S LOBSTER SHANTY Rte. 54, Fenwick Island, Del., 302-436-2305, twiningshanty.com
Reservations | Kids’ Menu
“A funky little place at the edge of town.” Classic New England fare, lobsters, steaks and burgers. Bird watching and magical sunsets await. Open for lunch and dinner. Reservations are suggested.
■ ASSATEAGUE BAR AND GRILL
9636 Stephen Decatur Highway, West Ocean City 443-664-8158, abarngrill.com
$$ | 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 1-6 p.m. with bar specials and tasty bites. Daily specials Monday through Friday. Dine-in and carry-out.
■ BREAKFAST CAFE
12736 Ocean Gateway, Route 50 east, West Ocean City, 410-213-1804, breakfastcafeofoc.com
All the traditional breakfast options available here in a casual, diner setting. Open daily closing at 2 p.m.
■ CANTINA LOS AGAVES MEXICAN GRILL 12720 Ocean Gateway #7, West Ocean City 410-390-3914, cantinalosagaves.com
$$ | Kid’s menu | Full bar
Ocean City’s newest Mexican restaurant and bar. Offering delicious and generous portions of the tastiest traditional and not so traditional #MexicanEats you have ever tried. Open everyday, 12 noon to 9 p.m., kitchen and bar.
■ DUMSER’S DAIRYLAND
West Ocean City: Route 50 east; Boardwalk locations: 501 S. Philadelphia Ave., 49th Street, 123rd Street, Ocean City, dumsersdairyland.com
This classic ice cream shop is a tradition for many families. Voted O.C.’s “Best Ice Cream” for the past 20 years, Dumser’s is celebrating decades of serving the shore, and the ‘40sstyle décor takes you back in time. With locations throughout Ocean City, treating your tastebuds to this signature homemade ice cream is easy. The 123rd Street location offers lunch and dinner menus in addition to a wide variety of ice cream treats.
■ GREENE TURTLE WEST Route 611, West Ocean City, 410-213-1500 Proudly serving West Ocean City since January 1999, The Greene Turtle features a beautiful 80-seat dining room, large bar area with 54 TVs with stereo sound and game room with pool tables. With an exciting menu, The Greene Turtle is sure to please with delicious sizzling steaks, jumbo lump crab cakes, raw bar, homemade salads and more. Live entertainment, Keno, Turtle apparel, kids menu, carry-out.
■ HARBORSIDE BAR & GRILL
12841 Harbor Rd., West Ocean City, 410-2131846, weocharborside.com
$$ | 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.; FridaySaturday: 11 a.m.-11 p.m.; Sunday: 11 a.m.-9 p.m.
Ocean City Firefighters Union, in partnership with the Ocean City Fire Department, delivered brand-new winter coats to children in need in the community. This initiative was made possible through the support of the local school administration and principals, who help to identify families who could use a little extra warmth this season. SUBMITTED PHOTO/ OC TODAY-DISPATCH
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
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 Low $300s
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
the oaks GEORGETOWN, Coming Soon Toownhomes
vines creek crossing FRANKFORD, DE
Coming Soon Single Family Ho Toownhomes, and Villas
lakeside at trappe
TRAPPE, MD
Now Selling Single Family Homes and Toownhomes from the Mid $300s
Golf & Countr
Plantation Lakes ryyClub
MILLSBORO, , DE
Now Selling Single Family Ho Villas Toownhomes from the Low $300s
Westwood MILFORD, DE
Coming Soon Single Family H and Villas
Tides at River Marsh
CAMBRIDGE, MD
Final Opportunity Toownhomes from the Mid $700s and T
Now Selling Single Family Home Toownhomes from the Uppe
(Oct. 31, 2025) The University of Maryland Eastern Shore (UMES) today announced a $38 million donation from philanthropist MacKenzie Scott – the largest single gift in the institution’s history.
This gift, along with Scott’s $20 million to UMES five years ago, brings her total giving to the Historically Black, 1890 Land Grant university to $58 million.
Scott’s latest unrestricted investment is a powerful endorsement of UMES’s momentum and a clear show of support for the vision and leadership of President Heidi M. Anderson, whose student-centered agenda has driven record gains in student completion, research activity, and regional partnerships.
“This gift is a resounding vote of confidence in UMES and in the strategic direction President Anderson has set,” said University System of Maryland (USM) Chancellor Jay A. Perman. “MacKenzie Scott’s generosity will deepen the university’s capacity to serve students, strengthen communities across the Eastern Shore, and expand UMES’s national impact as a highvalue, high-quality HBCU.”
Calling the gift “nothing short of transformational,” President Anderson added that: “MacKenzie Scott’s support affirms our mission and our progress. It recognizes the hard work of our students, faculty, staff, and alumni – and it validates the lofty goals we’ve set together: removing financial barriers to completion, elevating research that solves real problems, and ensuring UMES graduates launch into great careers and lives of purpose.”
UMES will steward the $38 million to advance high-impact priorities that sustain long-term excellence and student opportunity, including:
Student Access & Affordability: Expanded need-based scholarships, emergency grants, and paid experiential learning to reduce time-to-degree and debt burden.
Academic & Research Excellence: Seed funding for interdisciplinary research, labs, and faculty recruitment in areas such as agricultural innovation, coastal resilience, aviation science, health professions, and data science.
Student Success Infrastructure: Strengthening advising, mental health services, tutoring, and career development; modernizing classrooms and student spaces for collaborative learning.
Regional Engagement & Economic Mobility: Community-based initiatives and small-business partnerships that create internships, apprenticeships, and jobs across Maryland’s Lower Eastern Shore.
Scott is a philanthropist and author who has made significant, trust-based investments in organizations advancing equity, education, and community wellbeing.
Email:
This year the Ocean City Surf Club celebrates its 10 Year Anniversary of its “Surf Into Integrity” program. Pictured are the students of the “Surf Into Integrity” 2025 class, surf instructors and volunteers with the OC Surf Club along with members of the Ocean City Beach Patrol.
TODAY-DISPATCH
Sheriff Matthew Crisafulli spoke to the Ocean City Lioness Lions Club at the last meeting about scams and frauds. He said never to hesitate to call his office if you have doubts or concerns about someone soliciting you for funds. Pictured are Treasurer Susan McHenry, Sheriff Matt Crisafulli, his mother, Susan Crisafulli and President Donna Greenwood.
PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH CANDY FOR COAST GUARD
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The American Legion Auxiliary Sinepuxent Unit
Junior Auxiliary Members of the Year
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The Maryland Federation of Republican Women held their Fall Convention at the Ashore Resort and Beach Club in Ocean City on Saturday, Oct. 25. About 110 women from across the state attended and had a full day of business meetings, guest speakers and sharing friendship. The Republican Women of Worcester County was the host club with 16 members attending.
By Dave Dalkiewicz Contributing Writer
(Oct. 31, 2025) In a recent issue, artist/cartoonist Marc Emond expressed some good information.
At this time of the year there are, and will be, a few days when the air and water will still be warm enough for a swimmer or wader to take a quick dip in the ocean. The cartoon appeared on page 76 in the October 17, 2025 issue. Granted it’s meant to be humorous, of course, but it does present a good message.
The cartoon, for those who missed it, depicts four characters on a beach; a fisher person, a dog, and two wet-suited surfers with boards.
If an errant swimmer or wader were to enter the ocean and find themselves in trouble, who would help them? Most probably not the clothed fisher person or the dog.
The logical choice would be the surfers, who are already equipped to enter the water with wetsuits plus boards, which are at least adequate floatation devices. Before going any further in this scenario the initial best thing to do would be to call 911. This would assume that the fisher person or someone nearby would have a cell phone on hand. But time is of the essence when anyone is in trouble in the water.
While it’s true that the Ocean City Fire Department maintains water rescue personnel as well as the U. S. Coast Guard, any of these services would take at least a minimal amount of time. Frequently, for better or worse, visitors come for a good time which can often get off course and out of hand. Everyone should be responsible for their own actions or at least have someone to watch out for them.
Surfers as rescuing assistants? It’s valid and is nothing new in this oceanoriented community.
— Dave Dalkiewicz is the owner of Ocean Atlantic Surf Shop in Ocean City
by Steve Green
s this what the entire year is going to be like?
There I was, on the sideline of my 17-year-old son Beckett’s final high school soccer game last Friday night, when the emotions got the best of me. I wanted to just enjoy watching, but that resolve melted away somewhere between the first whistle and the last few minutes of the match.
A month ago, his senior season hit a setback when he sprained his ankle. What at first seemed like a minor injury turned into something more lasting — not just physically, but mentally. Though he pushed through rehab and was cleared by the school trainer in time for the playoffs, it became clear the injury had done more than sidelined him. It had shaken his confidence.
He put it best when he told me later that night, “I’m just so in my head, so frustrated.” That summed it up. He was hesitating where he used to charge forward. He’d stop short of challenges, reluctant to push off that ankle or test it too much. It wasn’t really the ankle anymore — it was the thought of it. He couldn’t give his full energy, and though he tried to fake it, any parent can tell when their kid isn’t quite themselves.
With about a minute left in the game, he got spiked by an opponent during a scramble near midfield and went down hard. It turned out not to be serious — just another scrape — but that moment summed up the last four weeks of his season. A lot of pain, a lot of effort, and not nearly the outcome he’d hoped for. As he lay there, I felt it all because I knew he was done: sadness, nostalgia, frustration, and something harder to describe — the ache that comes from watching your child reach the end of something important and not get the closure deserved. It hit my heart.
With Carson having an event that same evening, I offered to head home and get him ready rather than stay for the conference presentations. Nor-
mally, I wouldn’t dream of missing the post-game moments, but I could see Beckett was physically okay. What he needed was time — not an audience. I figured I’d see him later, after the sting of the loss softened and I managed myself.
Our senior took the loss hard. But it wasn’t really about the scoreboard — it was the finality of it all. The last time putting on that jersey. The last bus ride with teammates who’d grown up together. The realization that sometimes life doesn’t let you end things neatly or on your own terms. He wasn’t just disappointed in the team’s result; he was disappointed in himself — frustrated by what his body wouldn’t let him do and by how it all slipped away so quickly.
Though he may play club ball in college, this was different. This was the last time he’d play for his high school, where I played, representing something bigger than himself. And it didn’t end the way he wanted.
Later that night, after his raw emotions began to fade, I sat down with him. I told him he had every right to be upset — that those feelings were proof of how much it all meant. He was hurting because he cared. Tears are fine, its meaningful then.
I also told him that, as his dad, I understood completely. I wanted more for him too. I wanted him to have an ending he could be proud of years from now, that full-circle moment where everything feels right. But life rarely offers those. It’s unfair, sometimes brutally so. But those disappointments — the ones that sting the most — are the ones that teach us the most. It’s true we do learn more from losing than winning.
It’s rare, honestly, that I get those quiet moments with my teenager where he’s open enough for me to share a little of my own perspective. But that night felt like one of those times. I told him that what happens next is what matters most. He should be sad and mad, but what does he do with it.
Life is full of disappointments — in sports, in school, in work, and in relationships. The trick isn’t avoiding them; it’s learning how to move forward with grace and determination. This time it’s a soccer game, but next time it might be something far more significant — a lost opportunity, a rejection, or a heartbreak. How you respond will shape who you become.
We talked about how easy it is to get stuck in the “what ifs” — what if I hadn’t gotten hurt, what if I’d played better, what if the coach had subbed me differently. But all that does is keep you living in a version of the past you can’t change. What’s done is done. What matters now is what he takes from it. He seemed to get it.
In the days since, I’ve thought about that game more than I expected to. Watching your child grow up happens slowly — until suddenly, it doesn’t. You go from being the one who ties their cleats to a simple supporter.
Maybe that’s what hit me so hard on the sideline and the ride home — the awareness this is just another “last” in a year of them. Last games, last school dances, last family vacations before college. There’s pride, yes, but also this quiet ache, knowing that childhood is officially giving way to something new. Is this what the entire year is going to be like? Moments of joy laced with nostalgia, of pride shadowed by sadness? Probably. But that’s okay. Because these endings are really just the start of something bigger — for him and for us as parents learning to let go.
So, I’m trying to take my own advice. To appreciate the present, even when it stings a little. It wasn’t the ending he wanted. But maybe, in time, he will realize that’s fine.
(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 Deborah Lee Walker Contributing Writer
(Oct. 31, 2025) Traveling to Woodbine, Maryland to take care of Mother and run our family businesses every week is not an easy task. But once I am over the Bay Bridge, the trees look like a vibrant Monet painting. It is important to expand my repertoire of recipes to include seasonal dishes and at the same time add simple dishes that I know she will like.
What is a pizza without cheese? Packages of mixed, grated varieties are available at your favorite supermarket.
If you are looking for a festive addition to your menu, here’s a recipe to enjoy.
Pizza Pumpkin
1 sheet of ready roll puff pastry
Mother does not cook anymore, but there was a time where her stove rock and rolled throughout the night. She loved entertaining and never hesitated to try a new recipe. That being said, I think a pizza stuffed pumpkin will be a hit with mom.
Puff pastry and pizza dough are the most common doughs for the foundation of this dish. I think puff pastry is lighter and a better choice.
How to cut the dough is the next step for consideration. You can cut the circle by hand, or use a large biscuit cutter, or bowl. It depends on the size of the pumpkin you want.
Sauce is a must for pizza. A can of pizza sauce enhanced with a little Italian seasoning will “pop” this sauce.
1 cup pizza sauce
1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
1 cup grated Italian cheese mixture
1 package of partially cooked mini pepperoni
2 eggs
2 tablespoons milk
Garlic butter
½ cup salted butter
1 teaspoon garlic powder
2 teaspoons chopped fresh parsley
1. Preheat oven to 425 degrees.
2. Roll out the puff pastry on your cutting board.
3. Use a large grands biscuit cutter to cut out a disc shape, or use a sharp knife and cut a circle by hand to get the desired shape.
4. In a small bowl, combine pizza sauce and Italian seasoning.
5. Add a dollop of sauce, grated cheese, and pepperoni to the center.
6. Fold and seal the edges, then roll into a ball shape.
7. Cut 4 pieces of string and carefully tie them evenly around the dough to create
the indentations of a pumpkin.
8. In another small bowl, whisk the egg and milk.
9. Brush each pumpkin pizza with egg wash.
10. Place pizza pumpkins on a sheet pan lined with parchment paper for 25 minutes or golden brown.
11. In a very small sauce pan, heat garlic butter ingredients over low heat unti butter has melted. Brush pizza pumpkins with garlic butter.
12. Garnish with a green pepper stem,
pretzel stick, or basil to represent the stem of a pumpkin. Serve immediately.
* This recipe yields 3 pizza stuffed pumpkins. Ingredient amounts will vary depending on the amount of pizza stuffed pumpkins you intend to serve.
Change of Seasons
What good is the warmth of summer, without the cold of winter to give it sweetness.
- John Steinbeck
ARIES – Mar 21/Apr 20
Your passion is ignited this week, Aries. A fun hobby might capture your full attention. Don’t be afraid to try something new or put your energy into something you really love.
TAURUS – Apr 21/May 21
This week is a great time to focus on the simple pleasures in life, Taurus. Enjoy a cozy night in or savor a delicious meal. Spending time in nature is another way to pass the time.
GEMINI – May 22/Jun 21
Gemini, you may find yourself drawn to new subjects and interesting people this week. It’s an excellent time for reading a book outside of your typical genre or learning a new skill.
CANCER – Jun 22/Jul 22
Harmony and warmth are abundant in your home right now, Cancer. This is the ideal week to strengthen bonds with family and loved ones. Think about making a homecooked meal.
LEO – Jul 23/Aug 23
Leo, your natural charisma is shining, making this the ideal week to express yourself or take on a leadership role. Your enthusiasm may lead others to be on your team.
VIRGO – Aug 24/Sept 22
Virgo, this is a week to tackle any organizational ideas that you have had on your mind. Even if you handle small projects around the house or elsewhere, you’ll create calm and exercise control.
LIBRA – Sept 23/Oct 23
Your diplomatic and charming nature will help you navigate social situations with ease this week, Libra. In fact, new relationships could be the highlight of your week.
SCORPIO – Oct 24/Nov 22
An opportunity for insightful self-reflection and personal growth comes your way, Scorpio. Get ready to let go of old habits and embrace a new, more confident version of yourself.
SAGITTARIUS – Nov 23/Dec 21
Sagittarius, adventure is calling your name this week and you will feel a strong urge to explore. Perhaps planning a trip or trying a new activity can fill the urge?
CAPRICORN – Dec 22/Jan 20
Capricorn, this week a professional goal you have been working on will finally reach a breakthrough. Stay focused and disciplined, and you will find yourself achieving a great deal.
AQUARIUS – Jan 21/Feb 18
A new idea that you share this week could gain traction and lead to an exciting collaboration, Aquarius. Your forward-thinking outlook is a valuable gift that others will appreciate.
PISCES – Feb 19/Mar 20
Pisces, your intuition is at an all-time high. Trust your gut, especially when it comes to creative or personal decisions. Nothing is out of reach for you right now.
(Oct. 31, 2025) Deeley Insurance Group has announced the appointment of Jayme Hayes as its new vice president. Hayes brings over 20 years of regional business leadership experience and will be instrumental in directing the agency’s growth and client service initiatives.
Hayes will guide Deeley’s business development and partnership outreach efforts, oversee its team of client advisors and work with executive leadership to strengthen the agency’s presence throughout the region.
“We’ve known and admired Jayme for years,” said Cindy Hall, Deeley’s executive vice president. “Her optimism, drive and commitment to the community are very impressive, and that’s exactly why she fits so well at the heart of our team.”
Since 2007, Hayes has served as
president and CEO of Junior Achievement of the Eastern Shore. Hayes was the driving force behind the fundraising, design and construction of the Perdue Henson Junior Achievement Center in Salisbury, which opened in fall of 2023 and serves students in eight counties.
“Our core philosophies are so closely aligned,” said Deely’s President Laura Bren. “Jayme has an incredible talent for listening carefully to business leaders, digging deep to find the best way to support them, then moving heaven and earth to make it happen. And that’s what our agency aspires to every day.”
Hayes graduated from Salisbury University, where she studied Business Communications and Marketing. She lives in Salisbury and enjoys reading, gardening, cooking and spending time with her daughters.
The Worcester County Commissioners appointed Ondrea Starzhevskiy the new finance officer.
Starzhevskiy briefly served as deputy finance officer after joining the county’s finance team in August 2025.
In her elevated role, Starzhevskiy will lead the Treasurer’s Office.
Starzhevskiy has 14 years of accounting expertise, including seven years as a director. Her experience
By Lauren Bunting Contributing Writer
(Oct. 31, 2025) The three-way agreement describes how the local, state and national associations use their collective voices and resources to help effectively support the business of every REALTOR’s® mission of preserving, protecting and advancing the right of real property for all. The three-way agreement is a nearly 100-year-old organizational structure that is effective at supporting members’ businesses and amplifying their voices.
As described in a recent REAL-
TOR® Magazine article, the three-way agreement in a nutshell streamlines Code of Ethics adherence and accountability on all three levels and creates alignment around member communications, benefits and advocacy efforts. Furthermore, they explained that the agreement’s framework enables the National Association of REALTOR’s® (NAR), state and local organizations to mobilize in a unified way, adding power and urgency to the REALTOR® voice. It also grants local and state associations the use of the term “REALTOR®.”
The agreement, adopted in 1927, establishes NAR’s structure as a “federation,” or a union of organizations. Any member of a local REALTOR® associ-
ation is also a member of their state association and the national association. Under the federated structure, NAR represents 1.5 million members across 54 state and territory associations, enhancing NAR’s effectiveness in lobbying for the health of the $3.7 trillion housing industry and private property rights around the country.
At the state level, Maryland REALTORS® has more than 32,000 members, and locally the Coastal Association of REALTORS® which covers Worcester, Wicomico and Sussex counties, has more than 1100 primary and secondary members.
Lauren Bunting is the Broker of Record for Keller Williams Realty Delmarva in Ocean City, Maryland.
in public-sector finance, strategic budgeting, and intergovernmental coordination align well with the county’s financial leadership goals.
“Ondrea has demonstrated exceptional financial leadership and a deep knowledge of government funds,” Commissioner President Ted Elder said. “Her experience, professionalism, and strong management skills make her the ideal leader for the Treasurer’s Office and a valued partner to our internal and external stakeholders.”
and oversees all operations of the Treasurer’s Office, including tax and fee collection, payroll, accounting, financial reporting, debt management, and investment of County funds. She manages a departmental team of 20, ensuring adherence to federal, state, and local financial regulations.
TidalHealth has welcomed board-certified urogynecologist Peter G. O’Hare III, MD, to TidalHealth Urogynecology in Ocean Pines. He is the Director of the Division of Urogynecology and Reconstructive Pelvic Surgery at TidalHealth.
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Prior to joining Worcester County, Starzhevskiy was the director of finance for Easton Public Schools in North Easton, Massachusetts from 2022 to 2025 and director of finance for the City of Arcata in California from 2018 to 2022.
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.
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Delights & Gifts
Auction & Friar Gary’s Fries Carry Out Lunch with Seating Available
“My connection to the Lower Eastern Shore, particularly the Public Landing area where my mom grew up, dates back four generations,” Starzhevskiy said. “I’m thankful for the opportunity to put these skills to work in the place I call home.”
Starzhevskiy earned a Bachelor of Science in management, with a concentration in accounting, from the University of Massachusetts at Boston in 2010 and Master of Science in Accounting from Babson College in 2011.
As finance officer, Starzhevskiy leads
In his busy clinical practice, Dr. O’Hare works with women of all ages to diagnose, manage and treat their pelvic floor disorders, such as prolapse and incontinence. He offers a wide variety of treatment options that cater to the individual needs of his patients and is an expert surgeon trained in minimally invasive surgery and the Da Vinci®robotic surgery system. Dedicated to advancing the field of urogynecology and reconstructive pelvic surgery, Dr. O’Hare is an accomplished researcher whose research interests include overactive bladder syndrome, pelvic organ prolapse, stress urinary incontinence and pelvic floor dysfunction.
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Saturday, November 8, 2025 9AM—4PM
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Raffles, Pictures with Santa, Craft Table, Christmas Room, Chinese Auction, Jewelry, Silent Auction, Books, White Elephant Gifts, Bake Sale, Wine Pull, Food
OC RV & VAN LIFESTYLE SHOW
Ocean City Convention & Visitors Bureau, 4001 Coastal Highway, 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Explore the latest RVs, custom vans, kayaks, fishing gear and outdoor accessories. Enjoy BMX and skateboarding demos, test ride the newest e-bikes, bay cruises and more. Tickets: https://ocrvshow.com.
BRONCO BEACH BASH
Roland E. Powell Convention Center, 4001 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, 7:30 a.m.-5 p.m. and Inlet Parking Lot. Held with the OC RV & Van Lifestyle Show. Featuring beach cruises and trail-inspired challenges, show and shine competition, exclusive merch and giveaways. broncobeachbash.com, 443-366-5944
HAUNTED BINGO
Northside Park, 200 125th St., Ocean City, 10 a.m.-noon. For senior adults, 50 years and older. Come dressed in your Halloween best and play for prizes and share some donuts. Free event. https://oceancitymd.gov/oc/departments/recreation-parks/, 410-250-0125
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
HALLOWEEN AT THE ART LEAGUE OF OC Art League of Ocean City Center for the Arts, 502 94th St., 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Free slime making class, trick-or-treating and dance to spooky tunes. Costumes are encouraged. https://artleagueofoceancity.org/event/halloween-at-the-art -league-of-oc/
DOCTOR MADDOCKTER’S HAUNTED LABORATORY
Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 12-7 p.m. Walk the road to the mad doctor’s lair; You’ll see many things to give you a scare: A dinosaur here! An alien there! A zombie horde! Walk on by - if you dare! 410-6410650, 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. Best of elementary and middle school students, but all are welcome. 410-632-3495, www.worcesterlibrary.org
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
OC RV & VAN LIFESTYLE SHOW
Ocean City Convention & Visitors Bureau, 4001 Coastal Highway, 9 a.m.-7 p.m. Explore the latest RVs, custom vans, kayaks, fishing gear and outdoor accessories. Enjoy BMX and skateboarding demos, test ride the newest e-bikes, bay cruises and more. Tickets: https://ocrvshow.com.
BRONCO BEACH BASH
Roland E. Powell Convention Center, 4001 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, 7:30 a.m.-5 p.m. and Inlet Parking Lot. Held with the OC RV & Van Lifestyle Show. Featuring beach cruises and trail-inspired challenges, show and shine competition, exclusive merch and giveaways. broncobeachbash.com, 443-366-5944
OCTOBERFEST SHORE CRAFT BEER FEST
Bayside Park at Third Street, Third Street, Ocean City, 1 p.m. Local craft breweries, food trucks, live music and more. Tickets: https://shorecraftbeer.ticketspice.com/ 2025-octoberfest. 410-703-1970
‘RUMOURS OF FLEETWOOD MAC’
‘Ocean City Performing Arts Center, 4001 Coastal Highway, 7 p.m. Personally endorsed by Fleetwood Mac founding member Mick Fleetwood. Tickets: https://www.etix.com/ticket/p/734328 29/rumours-of-fleetwood-mac-oceancity-oc-performing-arts-center.
FALL ‘TEAM’ PICKLEBALL TOURNAMENT
Northside Park, 200 125th St., Ocean City. Teams of four (two men, two women). https://oceancitymd.gov/oc/departments/recreation-parks/pickleball/, 410-250-0125
BREAST CANCER 101 EDUCATIONAL CONFERENCE
Community Foundation of the Eastern Shore, 1324 Belmont Ave., Salisbury, 8:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Doors open at 8:30 a.m. for visiting vendors and a complimentary breakfast, guest speakers will begin at 9:00 a.m. This conference is free to attend, but space is limited. 410548-7880
WINTER WONDERLAND HOLIDAY CRAFT FAIR
Ocean Pines Community Center, 235 Ocean Parkway, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Gifts galore! All items are handcrafted. Also featuring bake sale, free admission and free parking. The Artisan Gift Shop will be open from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
FALL MARKET AT THE MODERN GRAZE
The Modern Graze, 36298 Old Ocean City Road, Willards, 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Enjoy strolling the Makers Market featuring local community vendors and artisans from the Eastern Shore.
CHURCH CHRISTMAS BAZAAR
Community Church at Ocean Pines -
Family Life Center, 11227 Racetrack Road, Berlin, 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Featuring Christmas clothing, jewelry, trees, wreaths, lighting, decorations, new toys and gifts. Baked goods and light lunch sold. Canned goods always appreciated for the Food Pantry. 410-641-5433
CRAFT SHOW
Selbyville Volunteer Fire Co, 30 N. Main St., 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Featuring more than 30 vendors. There will be a Tricky Tray Auction and a 50/50 raffle. Offering scrapple and egg sandwiches for breakfast, and hot dogs, hamburgers and cheeseburgers for lunch.
CRAFTY SATURDAY: DINOVEMBER
Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 10 a.m. Come craft fossils, create skeletons and more. For ages 0-11 years. 410-2084014, www.worcesterlibrary.org
ALL YOU CAN EAT FRIED CHICKEN BUFFET
Mt. Pleasant United Methodist Church, 36540 Mount Pleasant Road, Willards, 11 a.m. Vegetables, beverages and dessert included. Cost to dine in is $17 for adults, $8.50 for children and those 5 years and younger eat free. Cost for carryout is $15. No pre-orders. 410-8358340
COMIC BOOK CLUB
Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 1 p.m. Like graphic novels? Come create your own and make a craft. For ages 6-11 years. 410-208-4014, www.worcesterlibrary.org
2ND ANNUAL NIGHT OF CHRISTIAN MUSIC
Friendship Church of Berlin, 10537 Friendship Road, 6 p.m. A love offering will be taken to benefit the ministries of Friendship’s Men’s Group. Light refreshments will follow.
OCEAN PINES FARMERS & ARTISANS MARKET
Saturdays - White Horse Park, 239 Ocean Parkway, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Shop for everything from fresh local produce to unique handmade artisan goods. Also featuring family-friendly activities, music and unique shopping experiences. Open to the public, year round. 410-6417052, https://www.oceanpines.org/web/pages /farmers-artisans-market
OC RV & VAN LIFESTYLE SHOW
Ocean City Convention & Visitors Bureau, 4001 Coastal Highway, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Explore the latest RVs, custom vans, kayaks, fishing gear and outdoor accessories. Enjoy BMX and skateboarding demos, test ride the newest e-bikes, bay cruises and more. Tickets:
https://ocrvshow.com.
BRONCO BEACH BASH
Roland E. Powell Convention Center, 4001 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, 7:30 a.m.-5 p.m. and Inlet Parking Lot. Held with the OC RV & Van Lifestyle Show. Featuring beach cruises and trail-inspired challenges, show and shine competition, exclusive merch and giveaways. broncobeachbash.com, 443366-5944
5TH ANNUAL SNOW HILL SEAFOOD FESTIVAL
Downtown Snow Hill, 1-5 p.m. All-YouCan-Eat and Drink Seafood Festival with live music, 50/50 raffles and event merchandise. Cost is $65. Tickets: https://www.snowhillchamber.com/seaf ood-festival.
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
STORY TIME: OUTER SPACE
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
MYPLATE FOR DIABETES
Worcester County Library - Snow Hill Branch, 307 N. Washington St., 5:30 p.m. Learn the MyPlate method of creating meals that can help manage diabetes. Presented by TidalHealth. 410-632-3495, www.worcesterlibrary.org
WOMEN SUPPORTING WOMEN’S MOVE FOR THE CURE
Fager’s Island, 201 60th St., Ocean City, 5:45 p.m. Check in begins 5 p.m. The event requires a $20 donation and features a high-energy dance class led by Pure Family Fitness instructors, a Chinese auction, and a 50/50 raffle. zumbajoyceoc@gmail.com
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
LINE DANCE GALORE
Northside Park, 200 125th St., Ocean City, 6-9 p.m. Also offering pizza, soda, bottled water and ice cream. Cost is $8 for Ocean City residents and $10, nonresidents. Must register in advance: https://oceancitymd.gov/oc/departments/recreation-parks/. 410-250-0125
STORY TIME: AUTUMN
Worcester County Library - Pocomoke Branch, 401 Fifth St., 10:30 a.m. Stories, songs and crafts. For ages 0-5 years. 410-957-0878, www.worcesterlibrary.org
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 finger plays. 410-641-0650, 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. Group meets every Tuesday. 410-524-1818, www.worcesterlibrary.org
MASTER GARDENERS PLANT CLINIC
Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 11 a.m. Master Gardener Ginny Rosenkranz talks about all things plants. Bring ques-
tions and feel free to show your plants as well. 410-208-4014, www.worcesterlibrary.org
INTRODUCTION TO ACUPUNCTURE
Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 2 p.m.
Dr. Brooke Bochinski LAc., DOM, from Sea Wellness Acupuncture, teaches this introductory class. 410-524-1818, www.worcesterlibrary.org
SUPER SMASH BROS TOURNAMENT
Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 4 p.m.
Test your Smash Bros skills against fellow patrons for the chance to win a prize. For ages 12-18 years. 410-5241818, www.worcesterlibrary.org
DRONES 101
Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 4:30 p.m. Come check out drones and learn all about them with Worcester Tech instructor Valerie Zienty. For ages 6-11 years. 410-208-4014, 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.
PAINT & SIP
Ocean Pines Community Center, 235 Ocean Parkway, 6-8 p.m. Cost is $27 and includes wine and crackers. Must be a least 18 years of age to participate. Register: 410-641-7052.
GRACE PARKER BREAKFAST
First Presbyterian Church of Ocean City, 1301 Philadelphia Ave., 7-11 a.m. Menu includes pancakes, eggs, bacon, sausage, grits and home fries. Cost to eat-in is $12 and carryout is $10.
PUZZLE SWAP
Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 1-7 p.m. Bring your gently used puzzles and leave with new-to-you puzzles. Don’t have a puzzle to exchange but still want one? That’s OK too. All puzzles must be complete in their original boxes. 410-641-0650
STEM FEST: FOOD FOR ENERGY
Worcester County Library - Pocomoke Branch, 401 Fifth St., 2:30 p.m. Learn why it’s important to keep our energy levels high and how our bodies convert food into energy. Sample some healthy, high energy snacks. For ages 6-11 years. Registration necessary: 410-957-0878.
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
VIRTUAL CAREGIVER ACADEMY Free and open to the public. Offering 5.5
Continuing Education Credits for physi-
cians, nurses, and social workers, 8:15 a.m.-2:45 p.m., 410-742-8732, Ext. 682
ZOOTOPIA PARTY
Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 10:30 a.m. Create crafts and celebrate the premiere of Zootopia 2 in theaters. For families. 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
POCOMOKE BOOK CLUB ‘THE SWEETNESS AT THE BOTTOM OF THE PIE’ BY ALAN BRADLEY
Worcester County Library - Pocomoke Branch, 401 Fifth St., 2 p.m. Join in for a lively discussion each month. Stop by the Pocomoke branch to pick up a copy in advance. 410-957-0878, www.worcesterlibrary.org
DOCUMENTARY SCREENING: ‘THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION’ Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 2 p.m. Documentary titled “The American Revolution” examines how America’s founding turned the world upside down. Courtesy WETA. 410-208-4014, www.worcesterlibrary.org
WSW 3RD ANNUAL HOLIDAY BINGO Willards Lions Community Center, Hearn Street, 4:30-9 p.m. Doors will open at 4:30 p.m., games begin at 6 p.m. Cash games and more. Advance tickets cost $35 or $40 at the door. Tickets: 410548-7880. https://womensupportingwomen.harnessgiving.org/events/3273
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 46
TIKTOK®/ SOCIAL MEDIA WHIZ PART TIME
Looking for help with TikTok LIVE® and to monetize.
I have millions of viewers!
410-206-6590
Experienced
YR SOUS CHEF
Mancini’s Restaurant
907 Coastal Hwy Fenwick Isle, DE
302-537-4224
JOLLY ROGER
Small Engine Mechanic. Ride Maintenance. Year Round. Wage starts at $15/hour & up based on experience. Benefits available. 410-289-4902
DENTAL HYGIENIST Ocean City, MD 410-213-1032
YR APARTMENT
8th ST.
1 BR, Sleeps 6 Fully remodeled. 3rd Floor, No elevator
$1,850 per mo. Includes Cable, Elec. & Water 410-430-7675
YR APARTMENT
28th ST. Large 1 BR, Fully remodeled. 3rd Floor, No elevator
$1,500 per mo. Includes Cable, Elec. & Water 410-430-7675
YEAR-ROUND RENTAL
3BR, 2BA
Beautiful Townhouse with garage. Unfurnished. Off Rt. 54 in Atlantic Lakes.
$2,300 per mo. + util’s. Owner pays HOA. Community pool. No pets/smoking. Call Howard Martin Realty 410-352-5555
YR or WINTER RENTAL
OCEAN CITY
Several locations. Furn. or unfurn. 2BR, 2BA and larger. 410-524-0663
Seeking YR & Seasonal Rentals!
Call Howard Martin Realty 410-352-5555.
YEARLY RENTAL
2BR, 1BA Unfurnished
319 Robin Drive
Available immediately
Dog friendly, ground floor. Ideal 2 mature adults w/strong work history.
$2,000/mo + electric Call/text 703-819-7400
WINTER RENTAL
North OC
1BR, 1BA Condo
3rd Flr walk up, furnished, WD, Parking, Walking distance to restaurants
$1,100 per mo + sec. dep. Incl’s Util & WiFi 412-965-4079
REAL ESTATE FOR SALE
39 ACRE FARM
mostly cleared. Between Pittsville and Salisbury. Huge warehouse/barn w/concrete floor. Perfect for horse, vehicles, contractors.
Includes 2,200 sq. ft. house. Gourmet kitchen, liveable but needs updating.
$650,000
Call Howard Martin Realty 410-352-5555
COMMERCIAL
2 Office/Retail Spaces available in West Ocean City. Approximately 1656 sq. ft. and 1728 sq. ft. Call 443-497-4200
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.
COMMERCIAL SPACE
Rt. 611, Stephen Decatur Business Center.
Large unit with 5 individual office spaces within. $2,400 per mo. 410-430-7675
Industrial Space Yard and Storage Shed. Approx. 10x25+/Route 90/Bishopville. Call 443-497-4200.
Do you have an old bicycle not being used? It could mean a world of difference to a hard-working international student. We are looking to get as many bikes as possible. Your donation will be tax-deductible. Contact Gary at 443-975-3065.
ATTENTION
All relatives of restaurant owners in the OC MD area that are interested in preserving our little towns restaurant heritage. Contact Kelly Carney 410-251-6694 Or KaCarney7@gmail.com
Real dental insurance - NOT just a discount plan. Do not wait! Call now! Get your FREE Dental Information Kit with all the details! 1-855-337-5228 www.dental50plus.com/ MDDC #6258 FOR SALE Prepare for power outages today with a
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
Rosenberg & Associates, LLC
4340 East West Highway, Suite 600
Bethesda, MD 20814
(301) 907-8000
www.rosenberg-assoc.com
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
NOVEMBER 18, 2025 AT 3:55 PM
ALL THAT FEE SIMPLE LOT 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, re-
captured 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
OCD-10/30/3t
Rosenberg & Associates, LLC 4340 East West Highway, Suite 600 Bethesda, MD 20814 (301) 907-8000 www.rosenberg-assoc.com
OF IMPROVED REAL PROPERTY
35 TAIL OF THE FOX DRIVE
BERLIN A/R/T/A
OCEAN PINES, MD 21811
Under a power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust from William J. McGraw dated May 20, 2022 and recorded in Liber 8393, folio 494 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
NOVEMBER 18, 2025 AT 3:57 PM
ALL THAT FEE SIMPLE LOT 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 #03-039560.
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 $19,000 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 se-
cured 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 25-003808-MD-F-2.
Diane S. Rosenberg, Mark D. Meyer, et al., Trustees
OCD-10/30/3t
JAMES E. CLUBB, JR., ESQ. 108 8th Street Ocean City, Maryland 21842
6401 ATLANTIC AVENUE, #407 OCEAN CITY, MARYLAND
By virtue of a Statement of Lien recorded among the Land Records of Worcester County, Maryland, and pursuant to an Order of the Circuit Court for Worcester County, Maryland in Case No. C-23-CV-25-000253, the undersigned Trustee will offer for sale at public auction in front of the condominium building located at 6401 Atlantic Avenue, Ocean City, Maryland 21842, on
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 2025 AT9:00AM
ALL that property lying and being situate in the Town of Ocean City, in the Tenth Election District of Worcester County, Maryland, being more particularly designated and distinguished as Unit No. 407 in the "Surf's Edge Condominium", together with an undivided percentage interest in the common elements thereof, as established pursuant to a Condominium Declaration and ByLaws, dated July 5, 1984, and recorded among the Land Records of Worcester County, Maryland, in Uber W.C.L. No. 1000, folio 555, et seq., and pursuant also to the plats described in said Declaration, and recorded among the aforesaid Land Records in Plat Book W.C.L. No. 91, folio 50, et seq.
The property will be sold in an AS IS condition and subject to conditions, restrictions and agreements of record affecting the same, with no warranties or guarantees, and will be sold subject to a Mortgage recorded among the aforesaid Land Records in Uber No. 8299, folio 36, said Mortgage having had an original principal balance of $457,500.00 on January 14, 2022. The balance owed on the Mortgage will be announced at the sale. The Trustee reserves the right to reject any and all bids.
Terms of Sale: A deposit in the amount of Twenty Thousand Dollars
($20,000.00) will be required at the time of sale, such deposit to be in a cashier's or bank check, with the balance to be paid in cash at time of settlement. The date of settlement shall be fifteen (15) days after final ratification by the Circuit Court for Worcester County, Maryland, time being of the essence; otherwise, the deposit will be forfeited and the property will be resold at the risk and expense of the defaulting purchaser, or in any manner designated by the Trustee; or, without forfeiting deposit, the Seller may exercise any of its legal or equitable rights against the defaulting purchaser. The undersigned reserves the right to waive the deposit requirements as to the purchaser representing the interest of the party secured by the Statement of Lien. Real property taxes, wastewater charges, and condominium dues will be adjusted to the date of sale and thereafter assumed by the purchaser. All costs of conveyancing, including transfer and recordation taxes, shall be paid by the purchaser. The purchaser shall be responsible for obtaining possession of the property. Purchaser agrees to pay to the Seller an Attorney's fee of $350.00 for review of any motion which may be filed with the Court to substitute a purchaser herein. In the event the undersigned is unable to convey marketable title, the sale will be null and void and the purchaser's sole remedy will be the return of the deposit without interest.
For more information, call: James E. Clubb, Jr. Trustee 410-289-2323 OCD-10/30/3t
COHN, GOLDBERG & DEUTSCH, LLC 1099 WINTERSON ROAD, SUITE 301 LINTHICUM HEIGHTS, MARYLAND 21090 www.cgd-law.com/sales
OF IMPROVED REAL PROPERTY
808 & 810 2ND STREET
POCOMOKE, MD 21851
By authority contained in a Deed of Trust dated August 25, 2020 and recorded in Liber 7968, Folio 440, among the Land Records of Worcester County, Maryland, with an original principal balance of $99,000.00, and an interest rate of 20.990%, default having occurred thereunder, the Substitute Trustees will sell at public auction at the Courthouse door for the Circuit Court for Worcester County, One West Market Street, Snow Hill, MD 21863, on November 10, 2025 AT 11:00AM
ALL THAT FEE SIMPLE property more fully described in the aforesaid Deed of Trust. The property is improved by a dwelling. Terms of Sale: The property will be sold “as is” subject to any conditions, restrictions, easements and
agreements of record affecting same with no warranty of any kind. A deposit of $9,800.00 by certified funds only (no cash accepted) required at time of auction. Balance of the purchase price to be paid within 10 days of ratification of sale by the Court, with interest at the note rate from date of sale to settlement. If settlement is delayed for ANY reason, there shall be no abatement of interest or taxes. All private utility, water and sewer facilities charges, front foot benefit payments, ground rent, or condo/HOA assessments, not otherwise divested by ratification of the sale are payable by purchaser without adjustment. Real estate taxes and all other public charges, or assessments, to be adjusted as of date of sale. Transfer and recordation taxes, and all other costs incident to settlement, shall be borne by purchaser. Purchaser shall be responsible for obtaining physical possession of the property.
TIME IS OF THE ESSENCE. If purchaser fails to go to settlement within ten days of ratification, or otherwise fails to comply with the terms of sale, the Trustee may declare the entire deposit forfeited and resell the property at the risk and expense of defaulting purchaser, who agrees to pay reasonable attorneys' fees and costs if a motion to resell the property has been filed, purchaser waives personal service of any paper filed in connection with such motion, and agrees to accept service of any such paper by regular mail to the address provided at time of sale. If the Trustee cannot convey insurable title, or the loan servicer determines that the sale should not have occurred, the sale shall be null and void, and purchaser's sole remedy shall be the return of deposit without interest.
Richard E. Solomon, et al., Sub. Trustees
Tidewater Auctions, LLC (410) 825-2900 www.tidewaterauctions.com CGD File #: 460586 OCD-10/23/3t
BWW Law Group, LLC 6003 Executive Blvd., Suite 101 Rockville, MD 20852 (301) 961-6555
OF REAL PROPERTY AND ANY IMPROVEMENTS THEREON
128 B NEWPORT BAY DRIVE OCEAN CITY, MD 21842
Under a power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust dated March 23, 2006, recorded in Liber 4670, Folio 399 among the Land Records of Worcester County, MD, with an original principal balance of $428,000.00, default having occurred under the terms thereof, the Sub. Trustees will sell at public auction at the Circuit Court for Worcester County, at the Court House Door, One W. Market St., Snow Hill, MD 21863, on NOVEMBER 4, 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 $26,000 in the form of certified check, cashier’s check or money order will be required of the purchaser at time and place of sale. Balance of the purchase price, together with interest on the unpaid purchase money at the current rate contained in the Deed of Trust Note, or any modifications thereto, from the date of sale to the date funds are received by the Sub. Trustees, payable in cash within ten days of final ratification of the sale by the Circuit Court. There will be no abatement of interest due to the purchaser in the event additional funds are tendered before settlement. TIME IS OF THE ESSENCE FOR THE PURCHASER. Adjustment of all real property taxes, including agricultural taxes, if applicable, and any and all public and/or private charges or assessments, to the extent such amounts survive foreclosure sale, including water/sewer, ground rent and front foot benefit charges, to be adjusted to date of sale and thereafter assumed by purchaser. Purchaser is responsible for any recapture of homestead tax credit. All transfer taxes and recordation taxes shall be paid by Purchaser. The purchaser shall be responsible for the payment of the ground rent escrow, if required. Condominium fees and/or homeowners association dues, if any, shall be assumed by the purchaser from the date of sale. Purchaser is responsible for obtaining physical possession of the property, and assumes risk of loss or damage to the property from the date of sale. The sale is subject to post-sale audit of the status of the loan with the 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 enti-
tled 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. 372188-1) Howard N. Bierman, Carrie M. Ward, et. al., Substitute Trustees.
OCD-10/16/3t
COHN, GOLDBERG & DEUTSCH, LLC
1099 WINTERSON ROAD, SUITE 301
LINTHICUM HEIGHTS, MARYLAND 21090 www.cgd-law.com/sales
OF IMPROVED REAL PROPERTY
10531 HARRISON ROAD BERLIN, MD 21811
Trust dated June 16, 2009 and recorded in Liber 5292, Folio 033, among the Land Records of Worcester County, Maryland, with a maximum principal balance of $179,250.00, and an interest rate of 5.750%, default having occurred thereunder, the Substitute Trustees will sell at public auction at the Courthouse door for the Circuit Court for Worcester County, One West Market Street, Snow Hill, MD 21863, on November 3, 2025 AT 11:00AM ALL THAT FEE SIMPLE property more fully described in the aforesaid Deed of Trust. The property is improved by a dwelling. Terms of Sale: The property will be sold “as is” subject to any conditions, restrictions, easements and agreements of record affecting same with no warranty of any kind. A deposit of $25,000.00 by certified funds only (no cash accepted) required at time of auction. Balance of the purchase price to be paid within 10 days of ratification of sale by the Court, with interest at the note rate from date of sale to settlement. If settlement is delayed for ANY reason, there shall be no abatement of interest or taxes. All private utility, water and sewer facilities charges, front foot benefit payments, ground rent, or condo/HOA assessments, not otherwise divested by ratification of the sale are payable by purchaser without adjustment. Real estate taxes and all other public charges, or assessments, to be adjusted as of date of sale. Transfer and recordation taxes, and all other costs incident to settlement, shall be borne by purchaser. Purchaser shall be responsible for obtaining physical possession of the property.
TIME IS OF THE ESSENCE. Ifpurchaser fails to go to settlement
within ten days of ratification, or otherwise fails to comply with the terms of sale, the Trustee may declare the entire deposit forfeited and resell the property at the risk and expense of defaulting purchaser, who agrees to pay reasonable attorneys' fees and costs if a motion to resell the property has been filed, purchaser waives personal service of any paper filed in connection with such motion, and agrees to accept service of any such paper by regular mail to the address provided at time of sale. If the Trustee cannot convey insurable title, or the loan servicer determines that the sale should not have occurred, the sale shall be null and void, and purchaser's sole remedy shall be the return of deposit without interest.
Potential Bidders:
For sale information, please visit www.Auction.com or call (800) 2802832.
Richard E. Solomon, et al., Sub. Trustees
Tidewater Auctions, LLC (410) 825-2900 www.tidewaterauctions.com www.Auction.com
OCD-10/16/3t
Mayor & City Council Ocean City, Maryland
B06-26 – Caroline Street Comfort Station Renovations
The Mayor & City Council of Ocean City is seeking Proposals from qualified and experienced Vendors to provide for the Caroline Street Comfort Station Renovations and for said work to conform with the Proposal Documents.
BID Documents for the Caroline Street Comfort Station Renovations 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-BID Meeting will be held on FRIDAY, OCTOBER 17TH, 2025 AT 10:00AM, IN THE COMMUNITY ROOM, 1ST FLOOR, CITY HALL, 301 NORTH BALTIMORE AVENUE, OCEAN CITY, MARYLAND 21842. The last day for questions will be on FRIDAY, OCTOBER
24TH, 2025 AT 4:00PM. Addendum will be posted by close of business on MONDAY, OCTOBER 27TH, 2025.
Sealed BID Documents are due no later than FRIDAY, OCTOBER 31ST, 2025, BY 10:00AM. BID submissions will be opened, read aloud, and then remanded back to staff for further review at the MAYOR AND CITY COUNCIL REGULAR SESSION, ON MONDAY, NOVEMBER 3RD, 2025, AT 6:00PM. 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 (Caroline Street Comfort Station Renovations) 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.
OCD-10/16/3t
Daniel Tregoning Esq.
352 W Patrick St Frederick, MD 21701-4887
NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS
To all persons interested in the estate of TAMARA H GABRIELLI, ESTATE NO. 20863
Notice is given that: DANIEL K TREGONING ESQ., 352 W PATRICK ST FREDERICK, MD 21701-4887, was on Oct. 07, 2025 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of TAMARA H GABRIELLI, 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 interested persons or unpaid claimants having any objection to the appointment of the personal representative shall file their objection with the Register of Wills on or before the 7th day of APRIL, 2026.
All persons having any objection to the probate of the will of the decedent shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the7th day of APRIL, 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.
Name of newspaper designated by personal representative: TERRI WESTCOTT, Register of Wills for Worcester County ONE W MARKET STREET ROOM 102 - COURT HOUSE
SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1074
OCD-10/16/3t
BWW Law Group, LLC
6003 Executive Blvd., Suite 101 Rockville, MD 20852 (301) 961-6555
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR WORCESTER COUNTY MARYLAND
Case No. C-23-CV-25-000153
ANDREW J. BRENNER, ET.AL.
6003 Executive Blvd., Suite 101 Rockville, MD 20852
Substitute Trustees/Plaintiffs, vs.
AMBER M. RAY
113 North Collins Street
Snow Hill, MD 21863
Defendant(s)
Notice is hereby given this 9th day of October, 2025, by the Circuit Court for Worcester County, Maryland, that the sale of the property mentioned in these proceedings and described as 113 North Collens Street, Snow Hill, DM 21863, made and reported by the Substitute Trustee, will be RATIFIED AND CONFIRMED, unless cause to the contrary thereof be shown on or before the 10th day of November, 2025, provided a copy of this NOTICE be inserted in some daily newspaper printed in said county, once in each of three successive weeks before the 3rd day of November, 2025.
The report state the purchase price at the Foreclosure sale to be $106,920.00.
SUSAN BRANIECKI
True Test Copy Clerk, Circuit Court for Worcester County, Maryland OCD-10/16/3t
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS
To all persons interested in the estate of SYLVIA M ONIONS Estate No. 20866 Notice is given that TARA PATTERSON whose address is 53 MARTINIQUE CIR, BERLIN MD 21811-1703 was on OCTOBER 08, 2025 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of SYLVIA M ONIONS who died on SEPTEMBER 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 8TH day of APRIL,
2026. Any person having a claim against the decedent must present the claim to the undersigned personal representative or file it with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates:
(1) Six months from the date of the decedent's death; or
(2) Two months after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claims within two months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. A claim not presented or filed on or before that date, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter. Claim forms may be obtained from the Register of Wills.
TERRI WESTCOTT, Register of Wills for Worcester County ONE W MARKET STREET ROOM 102 - COURT HOUSE SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1074
OCD-10/16/3t
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS
To all persons interested in the estate of MARION S PIERCE Estate No. 20851 Notice is given that BARBARA ANN JONES whose address is 10115 GERMANTOWN RD, BERLIN MD 21811-2852 was on OCTOBER 07, 2025 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of MARION S PIERCE who died on SEPTEMBER 12, 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 7TH day of APRIL, 2026
All interested persons or unpaid claimants having any objectionto the appontment of the personal respresentative shall file their objection with the Register of Wills on or before the 7th day of APRIL, 2026.
Any person having a claim against the decedent must present the claim to the undersigned personal representative or file it with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates:
(1) Six months from the date of the decedent's death; or
(2) Two months after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claims within two months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. A claim not presented or filed on or before that date, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter. Claim forms may be obtained from the Register of Wills.
TERRI WESTCOTT, Register of
Wills for Worcester County
ONE W MARKET STREET ROOM 102 - COURT HOUSE
SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1074
OCD-10/16/3t
Mayor & City Council Ocean City, Maryland
B05-26- Worcester Street Comfort Sation Renovations
The Mayor & City Council of Ocean City is seeking Proposals from qualified and experienced Vendors to provide for the Worcester Street Comfort Station Renovations may be obtained from the Town’s Procurement Department by either e-mailing the Procurement Manager, Matt Perry, at mperry@oceancitymd.org or Dawn Leonard at dleonard@oceancitymd.org, or by calling (410) 723-6643 during regular or 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-BID Meeting will be held on FRIDAY, OCOBER 17TH, 2025 AT 10:00AM, IN THE COMMUNITY ROOM, 1ST FLOOR, CITY HALL, 301 NORTH BALTIMORE AVENUE, OCEAN CITY, MARYLAND 21842. The Last day for questions will be on FRIDAY, OCTOBER 24TH, 2025 AT 4:00PM. Addendum will be posted posted by close of business on MONDAY, OCTOBER 27TH, 2025.
Sealed BID Documents are due no later than FRIDAY, OCTOBER 31ST, 2025 BY 10:00AM. BID submissions will be opened, read aloud, and then remanded back to staff for further review at the MAYOR AND CITY COUNCIL REGULAR SESSION, ON MONDAY, NOVEMBER 3RD, 2025, AT 6:00PM. 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 thename of the Solicitation (Worcester Street Comfort Station Renovations) 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 Soliciation.
OCD-10/17/3t
B. RANDALL COATES ESQ
COATES, COATES, & COATES
204 WEST GREEN STREET
P O BOX 293 SNOW HILL, MD 21863
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS
To all persons interested in the estate of PAUL A MOSCATT AKA: PAUL A MOSCATT JR Estate No. 20859 Notice is given that GAETANO ROMANO LOTRECCHIANO whose address is 209 W MARKET ST SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1058 was on OCTOBER 09, 2025 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of PAUL A MOSCATT who died on AUGUST 28, 2025 with a will.
Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal representative or the attorney.
All interested persons or unpaid claimants having any objection to the appointment of the personal representative shall file their objection with the Register of Wills on or before the 9th day of APRIL, 2026.
All persons having any objection to the probate of the will of the decedent shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 9th day of APRIL, 2026
Any person having a claim against the decedent must present the claim to the undersigned personal representative or file it with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates:
(1) Six months from the date of the decedent's death; or
(2) Two months after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claims within two months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. A claim not presented or filed on or before that date, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter. Claim forms may be obtained from the Register of Wills.
TERRI WESTCOTT, Register of Wills for Worcester County ONE W MARKET STREET ROOM 102 - COURT HOUSE SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1074 OCD-10/16/3t
JESSICA L WALSH ESQ
LIFF, WALSH & SIMMONS 181 HARRY S TRUMAN PKWY STE 200 ANNAPOLIS, MD 21401-7627
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS
To all persons interested in the estate of GEORGE ALLEN O'DELL SR Estate No. 20855 Notice is given that LILLIE S O'DELL whose address is 1 DOLPHIN DR NEWARK, DE 19702-4715 was on OCTOBER 06, 2025 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of GEORGE
ALLEN O'DELL SR who died on NOVEMBER 04, 2018 without a will.
Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal representative or the attorney.
All interested persons or unpaid claimants having any objection to the appointment of the personal representative shall file their objection with the Register of Wills on or before the 6th day of APRIL, 2026.
All persons having any objection to the probate of the will of the decedent shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 6th day of APRIL, 2026.
Any person having a claim against the decedent must present the claim to the undersigned personal representative or file it with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates:
(1) Six months from the date of the decedent's death; or
(2) Two months after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claims within two months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. A claim not presented or filed on or before that date, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter. Claim forms may be obtained from the Register of Wills.
TERRI WESTCOTT, Register of Wills for WORCESTER COUNTY ONE W MARKET STREET ROOM 102 - COURT HOUSE SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1074 OCD-10/9/3t
JAMES W. ALMAND ESQ
AYRES JENKINS GORDY & ALMAND, PA 6200 COASTAL HIGHWAY, SUITE 200 OCEAN CITY, MD 21842
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS
To all persons interested in the estate of JOHN F JARVIS JR Estate No. 20875 Notice is given that ROBERT BRAD JARVIS whose address is 10109 PEBBLE CT OCEAN CITY, MD 21842-8805 was on OCTOBER 14, 2025 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of JOHN F JARVIS JR who died on SEPTEMBER 23, 2025 with a will.
Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal representative or the attorney.
All interested persons or unpaid claimants having any objection to the appointment of the personal representative shall file their objection with the Register of Wills on or before the 14th day of APRIL, 2026
All persons having any objection to the probate of the will of the decedent shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 14th day of APRIL, 2026
Any person having a claim against the decedent must present the claim to the undersigned personal representative or file it with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates:
(1) Six months from the date of the decedent's death; or
(2) Two months after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claims within two months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. A claim not presented or filed on or before that date, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter. Claim forms may be obtained from the Register of Wills.
TERRI WESTCOTT, Register of Wills for WORCESTER COUNTY ONE W MARKET STREET ROOM 102 - COURT HOUSE SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1074 OCD-10/23/3t
HUGH CROPPER IV, ESQ 9927 STEPHEN DECATUR HWY., SUITE F12 OCEAN CITY, MD 21842
OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 20876 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF STANLEY HANSEN Notice is given that Michael G. Fitch, 1105 Manito Rd., Manasquan, NJ 08736-2016, was on October 14, 2025 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Stanley Hansen who died on September 09, 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 14th day of April, 2026.
All persons having any objection to the probate of the will of the decedent shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 14th day of April, 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.
Michael G. Fitch
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: October 23, 2025
OCD-10/23/3t
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 Board of Zoning Appeals for Ocean City, Maryland in the Council Chambers of City Hall located on Baltimore Avenue and Third Street, in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland on:
Thursday, November 6, 2025 AT 6:00 PM
Pursuant to the provisions of Sections 110-93(1), Powers of the Code, an application has been filed by Peter Buas, Esquire, on behalf of Kozmas, Inc., to appeal the Zoning Administrator’s determination of legal nonconformity related to the Sea Cove Motel which is dated September 9, 2025. The property is described as Lots 1 and 12, Block 78N, of the Sinepuxent Beach Plat. It is further described as being located on the southwest corner of Baltimore Avenue and 27th Street and is locally known as the Sea Cove Motel located at 105 27th Street and 2611 Baltimore Avenue, in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.
APPLICANT: PETER BUAS, ESQUIRE, ON BEHALF OF KOZMAS, INC.
(BZA 2729 #25-09300003) AT 6:10 PM
Pursuant to the provisions of Sections 110-93(2), Powers of the Code, an application has been filed under Sections 110-94(3)(a) to request a special yard exception for a proposed dwelling to be 1.0 feet from a side lot line. The property is described as Lot E-24 of the Isle of Wight Mobile Home Park Plat. It is further described as being located on the south side of Flounder Lane and is locally known as 251 Flounder Lane, in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.
APPLICANT: P.E. MOORE AND SONS CONSTRUCTION
(BZA 2730 #25-09400013)
Further information concerning the public hearings may be exam-
ined in the office of the Department of Planning and Community Development in City Hall.
Christopher Rudolf, Chairman Maureen Howarth, Attorney OCD-10/23/2t
STEPHANIE SCALES SHERRIN ESQ. SCALES LAW GROUP
12417 OCEAN GTWY STE 11 OCEAN CITY, MD 21842-9525
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS
To all persons interested in the estate of GARRY WAYNE SNYDER
Estate No. 20839 Notice is given that DANA BRADLEY BABEL whose address is 1768 SHADYSIDE RD DOWNINGTOWN, PA 19335-3723 was on OCTOBER 15, 2025 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of GARRY WAYNE SNYDER who died on SEPTEMBER 15, 2025 with a will.
Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal representative or the attorney.
All interested persons or unpaid claimants having any objection to the appointment of the personal representative shall file their objection with the Register of Wills on or before the 15th day of APRIL, 2026
All persons having any objection to the probate of the will of the decedent shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 15th day of APRIL, 2026
Any person having a claim against the decedent must present the claim to the undersigned personal representative or file it with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates:
(1) Six months from the date of the decedent's death; or
(2) Two months after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claims within two months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. A claim not presented or filed on or before that date, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter. Claim forms may be obtained from the Register of Wills.
TERRI WESTCOTT, Register of Wills for WORCESTER COUNTY ONE W MARKET STREET ROOM 102 - COURT HOUSE SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1074 OCD-10/23/3t
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 20825
TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF FRANK LANTELLA
Notice is given that Leonora Lantella, 2525 Scravel Rd., Myersville, MD 21773-9203, was on October 15, 2025 appointed Personal
Representative of the estate of Frank Lantella who died on July 30, 2025, without a will.
Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal representative or the attorney.
All 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 15th day of April, 2026.
All persons having any objection to the probate of the will of the decedent shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 15th day of April, 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.
Leonora Lantella 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: October 23, 2025
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OF PUBLIC HEARING FOR MAP AMENDMENT
ATLANTIC COASTAL BAYS CRITICAL AREA 10702 ASSATEAGUE ROAD
Worcester County, Maryland
Pursuant to Section NR 3110(b)(3) of the Natural Resources Article of the Code of Public Local Laws of Worcester County, Maryland, a request has been submitted to the Worcester County Commissioners by Mark Cropper Esquire on behalf of Buck Browns, LLC for the reclassification of 2.19 acres of land from Resource Conservation Area to Limited Development Area. The subject property is located at the corner of Route 376 Assateague Road and Harrison Road in Berlin and is shown on Worcester County Tax Map 25, Parcel 298.
Pursuant to Section NR 3110(b)(4) of the Natural Resources Article of the Code of Public Local Laws of Worcester County, Mary-
land, the County Commissioners will hold a public hearing. At said public hearing, the Commissioners will consider the request for a map amendment based on a mistake for the above referenced property, any staff reports and recommendations, comments of other agencies, and testimony offered before them.
The public hearing on this application will be held on TUESDAY, November 18, 2025 at 10:30 A.M. in the Commissioners’ Meeting Room, Room 1101 –Government Center One West Market Street, Snow Hill, Maryland 21863
The file containing the request for reclassification and other pertinent information which will be entered into the record of the public hearing are on file and are available for inspection at the Department of Environmental Programs, Worcester County Government Center, Suite 1306 (3rd floor), One West Market Street, Snow Hill, Maryland, 21863 during regular business hours of 8:00 am to 4:30 pm. Questions may be directed to David Bradford, Deputy Director, by calling (410) 632-1220, extension 1143 or email at dbradford@co.worcester.md.us THE WORCESTER COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
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RE: Bicycles, Skateboards and Similar Conveyances
Notice is hereby given by the Mayor and City Council of Ocean City, that Ordinance 2025-26 was introduced for first reading at their meeting of October 20, 2025. Second reading is scheduled November 3, 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 October 20, 2025, agenda packet. This ordinance addresses the use of bicycles, electric bicycles, skateboards, roller skates, EPMADs and pushcarts on the roadway, boardwalk and sidewalks. OCD-10/30/1t _________________________________
Notice is hereby given by the Mayor and City Council of Ocean City, that Ordinance 2025-27 was introduced for first reading at their meeting of October 20, 2025. Second reading is scheduled November 3, 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 October 20, 2025, agenda packet. This ordinance increases the maximum monetary penalty for civil infractions and for misdemeanors from $1,000 to not more than $5,000 as permitted by State law. It also amends the maximum length of imprisonment for misdemeanors from 90 days to not more than 6 months. Additionally, code sections are being added which are necessary to provide consistency and clarity to the penalties and fines.
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RE: Moratorium for Issuance of New Short-term Rental Licenses (revised second reading date)
Notice is hereby given by the Mayor and City Council of Ocean City, that Ordinance 2025-28 was introduced for first reading at their meeting of October 20, 2025. Second reading is scheduled November 17, 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 October 20, 2025, agenda packet. This ordinance extends the moratorium on the issuance of new short-term rental licenses through January 3, 2027.
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RE: Tourist Courts and Tourist Homes
Notice is hereby given by the Mayor and City Council of Ocean City, that Ordinance 2025-29 was introduced for first reading at their meeting of October 20, 2025. Second reading is scheduled November 3, 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 October 20, 2025, agenda packet. The concept of tourist courts and tourist homes no longer exists. This ordinance removes reference to both terms and replaces them with rooming house or lodging house and/or boardinghouse. OCD-10/30/1t
THURSDAY NOVEMBER 13, 2025
Pursuant to the provisions of the Worcester County Zoning Ordinance, notice is hereby given that a public hearing will be held in-person before the Board of Zoning Appeals for Worcester County, in the Board Room (Room 1102) on the first floor of the Worcester County Government Center, One West Market Street, Snow Hill, Maryland. Audio and video recording will take place during this public hearing.
The public is invited to view this meeting live online athttps://worcestercountymd.swagit.co m/live
6:30 p.m. Case No. 25-62, on the lands of Lois and Donald Kline, requesting a variance to the rear yard setback from 5 feet to 1 foot (to encroach 4 feet) for a proposed deck in the A-2 Agricultural District, pursuant to Zoning Code §§ ZS 1116(c)(4), ZS 1-202(c)(18), ZS 1-305 and ZS 1-318, located at 8553 North Longboat Way, Tax Map 33, Parcel 347, Lot 11, Tax District 10, Worcester County, Maryland.
6:35 p.m. Case No. 25-60, on the lands of the Giglio Family Revocable Trust, requesting a variance to the front yard setback from 50 feet from a minor collector to 27.3 feet (to encroach 22.7 feet) for a proposed addition in the R-2 Suburban Residential District, pursuant to Zoning Code §§ ZS 1-116(c)(4), ZS 1-206(b)(2) & ZS 1-305 located at 10508 Keyser Point Road, Tax Map 21, Parcel 8, Section A, Block 14, Lots 10 and 11, Tax District 10, Worcester County, Maryland.
6:40 p.m. Case No. 25-61, on the lands of Paul and Theresa Michalski, requesting a total of four (4) variances, including two (2) after-thefact variances for an existing mobile home and attached sunroom, from the 10 foot front yard setback to 3.62 feet (a reduction of 6.38 feet) and from the 3 foot right side yard setback to 2.84 feet (a reduction of 0.16 feet); and two (2) variances for proposed landings with steps, from the 10 foot front yard setback to 4.35 feet (a reduction of 5.65 feet) and from the 5 foot rear yard setback to 0.19 feet (a reduction of 4.81 feet) in the A-2 Agricultural District, pursuant to Zoning Code §§ ZS 1-116(c)(4), ZS 1-202(c)(18) and ZS 1-318(d)(1)B, located at 452 Timberline Circle, Tax Map 16, Parcel 94, Lot 452, Tax District 3, Worcester County, Maryland.
6:45 p.m. Case No. 25-63, on the lands of Kimberly and Shannon Mills, on the application of Mark
Spencer Cropper, requesting a variance to the rear yard setback from 30 feet to 22.9 feet (to encroach 7.1 feet) for a proposed covered deck with steps associated with a proposed residence in the R-2 Suburban Residential District, pursuant to Zoning Code §§ ZS 1-116(c)(4), ZS 1206(b)(2) and ZS 1-305, located at 12636 Torquay Road, Tax Map 21, Parcel 8, Section A, Block 6, Lot 22, Tax District 10, Worcester County, Maryland.
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Worcester County, Maryland
Pursuant to Section NR 3110(b)(3) of the Natural Resources Article of the Code of Public Local Laws of Worcester County, Maryland, a request has been submitted to the Worcester County Commissioners by Mark Cropper Esquire on behalf of the Estate of Olivia Harrison Phillips for the reclassification of 6.60 acres of land from Resource Conservation Area to Intensely Development Area. The subject property is located along the northerly side of Center Drive and the westerly side of North Road in West Ocean City and is shown on Worcester County Tax Map 22, Parcel 268.
Pursuant to Section NR 3110(b)(4) of the Natural Resources Article of the Code of Public Local Laws of Worcester County, Maryland, the County Commissioners will hold a public hearing.
At said public hearing, the Commissioners will consider the request for a map amendment based on a mistake for the above referenced property, any staff reports and recommendations, comments of other agencies, and testimony offered before them.
The public hearing on this application will be held on TUESDAY, November 18, 2025 at 10:35 A.M. in the Commissioners’ Meeting Room, Room 1101 –Government Center One West Market Street, Snow Hill, Maryland 21863
The file containing the request for reclassification and other pertinent information which will be entered into the record of the public hearing are on file and are available for inspection at the Department of Environmental Programs, Worcester County Government Center, Suite 1306 (3rd floor), One West Market Street, Snow Hill, Maryland, 21863 during regular business hours of 8:00 am to 4:30 pm. Questions may be directed to David Bradford, Deputy Director, by calling (410) 632-1220, extension 1143 or email at dbradford@co.worcester.md.us
THE WORCESTER COUNTY COMMISSIONERS OCD-10/30/2t
OF PUBLIC HEARING FOR MAP AMENDMENT ATLANTIC COASTAL BAYS CRITICAL AREA ISLAND RESORT CAMPGROUND Worcester County, Maryland
Pursuant to Section NR 3110(b)(3) of the Natural Resources Article of the Code of Public Local Laws of Worcester County, Maryland, a request has been submitted to the Worcester County Commissioners by Mark Cropper Esquire on behalf of Island Resort Park, Inc. for the reclassification of 30.7 acres of land from Resource Conservation Area to Intensely Developed Area. The subject property is located along the northerly side of Croppers Island Road in Newark and is shown on Worcester County Tax Map 40, Parcel 240.
Pursuant to Section NR 3110(b)(4) of the Natural Resources Article of the Code of Public Local Laws of Worcester County, Maryland, the County Commissioners will hold a public hearing.
At said public hearing, the Commissioners will consider the request for a map amendment based on a mistake for the above referenced property, any staff reports and recommendations, comments of other agencies, and testimony offered before them.
The public hearing on this application will be held on TUESDAY, November 18, 2025 at 10:40 A.M. in the Commissioners’ Meeting Room, Room 1101 –Government Center One West Market Street, Snow Hill, Maryland 21863
The file containing the request for reclassification and other pertinent information which will be entered into the record of the public hearing are on file and are available for inspection at the Department of Environmental Programs, Worcester County Government Center, Suite 1306 (3rd floor), One West Market Street, Snow Hill, Maryland, 21863 during regular business hours of 8:00 am to 4:30 pm. Questions may be directed to David Bradford, Deputy Director, by calling (410) 632-1220, extension 1143 or email at dbradford@co.worcester.md.us THE WORCESTER COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
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J. HARRISON PHILLIPS III ESQ 8705 E BISCAYNE DRIVE OCEAN CITY, MD 21842
NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 20887 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF JOHN WILLIAM FORMWALT Notice is given that Belinda Hardesty Formwalt, 153 Nautical Ln., Ocean City, MD 21842-4665, was on October 23, 2025 appointed
Personal Representative of the estate of John William Formwalt who died on September 03, 2025, without a will.
Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal representative or the attorney.
All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent’s will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 23rd day of April, 2026.
All persons having any objection to the probate of the will of the decedent shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 23rd day of April, 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.
Belinda Hardesty Formwalt 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: October 30, 2025
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B. RANDALL COATES ESQ. COATES, COATES, & COATES 204 WEST GREEN STREET P. O. BOX 293
SNOW HILL, MD 21863
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS
Estate No. 20888
TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF HENRIETTA H. MAIZE
Notice is given that Matthew Charles Maize, 4915 Pennewell Road, Snow Hill, MD 21863 was on October 23, 2025 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Henrietta H. Maize who died on October 15, 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 23rd day of April, 2026.
All persons having any objection to the probate of the will of the decedent shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 23rd day of April, 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.
Matthew Charles Maize 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: October 30, 2025 OCD-10/30/3t
MAURICE L. OFFIT ESQ.
1954 GREENSPRING DR., STE. 605
LUTHERVILLE TIMONIUM, MD 21093-4130
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 20890 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF EDWARD M. ZIMMER
AKA: EDWARD MICHAEL ZIMMER
Notice is given that Jane M. Zimmer, 6981 Five Mile Branch Rd., Newark, MD 21841-2309, was on October 24, 2025 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Edward M. Zimmer who died on September 14, 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 24th day of April, 2026.
All persons having any objection to the probate of the will of the decedent shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 24th day of April, 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.
Jane M. Zimmer
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: October 30, 2025
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Worcester County Proposed Increase in Hotel Rental Tax Rate
Pursuant to Section 1-601 of the Taxation and Revenue Article of the Code of Public Local Laws of Worcester County, Maryland, the Worcester County Commissioners are considering adopting a resolution to raise the Hotel Rental Tax from 5% to 6% as authorized by Worcester County Code, TR 1-601(a).
The Worcester County Commissioners will conduct a public hearing to receive comments on the proposed resolution on:
Tuesday, November 18, 2025 at 10:45 a.m.
in the County Commissioners’ Meeting Room Room 1101 Government Center, One West Market Street Snow Hill, Maryland 21863
WORCESTER COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
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OF INTRODUCTION OF EMERGENCY BILL 25-06
WORCESTER COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
Take Notice that Emergency Bill 25-06 (Taxation – Hotel Rental Tax Credit) was introduced by Commissioners Abbott, Elder, Fiori, Mitrecic, and Purnell on October 21, 2025.
A fair summary of the bill is as follows: § TR 1-601 Hotel Rental Tax.
(Amends the subsection to increase the hotel rental tax percentage that may be imposed from five percent to six percent.)
A Public Hearing
will be held on Emergency Bill 25-06 at the Commissioners’ Meeting Room, Room 1101 – Government Center, One West Market Street, Snow Hill, Maryland on Tuesday, November 18, 2025 at 10:45 a.m.
This is only a fair summary of the bill. A full copy of the bill is posted on the Legislative Bulletin Board in the main hall of the Worcester County Government Center outside Room 1103, is available for public inspection in Room 1103 of the Worcester County Government Center once County Government Offices are opened to the public. In the interim, a full copy of the bill is available on the County Website at www.co.worcester.md.us.
THE WORCESTER COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
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COATES, COATES, & COATES, P.A.
RAYMOND D. COATES JR., ESQ. 6200 COASTAL HIGHWAY, SUITE 300 OCEAN CITY, MD 21842
TO CREDITORS OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE ESTATE NO. 20885
NOTICE IS GIVEN that the Circuit Court of Boone County, Kentucky appointed William David Bramble, 245 Main St., Florence, KY 41042-2027 as the Executor of the Estate of Leona Lou Seabolt Bramble who died on April 30, 2025 domiciled in Kentucky, USA.
The name and address of the Maryland resident agent for service of process is Raymond D. Coates Jr., 6200 Coastal Hwy., Ste. 300, Ocean City, MD 21842-6698.
At the time of death, the decedent owned real or leasehold property in the following Maryland counties: Worcester.
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.
William David Bramble 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: October 30, 2025
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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.
JAMES R. KENNEDY
357 Timberline Circle Berlin, MD 21811
Defendant(s) IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR WORCESTER COUNTY, MARYLAND
Case No. C-23-CV-25-000176
NOTICE
Notice is hereby given this 23rd day of October, 2025, by the Circuit Court for Worcester County, Maryland, that the sale of the property mentioned in these proceedings and described as 357 Timberline Circle, Berlin, MD 21811, made and reported by the Substitute Trustee, will be RATIFIED AND CONFIRMED, unless cause to the contrary thereof be shown on or before the 24th day of November, 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 17th day of November, 2025.
The report states the purchase price at the Foreclosure sale to be $86,000.00.
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-10/30/3t
B. RANDALL COATES ESQ. COATES, COATES, & COATES 204 WEST GREEN STREET P. O. BOX 293 SNOW HILL, MD 21863
OF APPOINTMENT
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 20865
TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF ROBERT LEE WEBB JR.
Notice is given that Chandler Webb Sterling, 2646 Bunting Rd., Pocomoke City, MD 21851-2944; and Kristi Leigh Webb, 1912 Groton Rd., Pocomoke City, MD 21851-2800 were on October 23, 2025 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Robert Lee Webb Jr. who died on September 14, 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 23rd day of April, 2026.
All persons having any objection to the probate of the will of the decedent shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 23rd day of April, 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.
Chandler Webb Sterling Kristi Leigh Webb
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: October 30, 2025
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MICHAEL B. MATHERS, ESQ. WEBB, WILBUR, MATHERS
ILLUMINATI & LUKAS, LLP
P.O. BOX 910
SALISBURY, MD 21803-0910
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 20846 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF MARK CHRISTOPHER RIERSON
Notice is given that Cassandra Zoe Rierson, 12139 Landings Blvd., Berlin, MD 21811-2753 was on October 24, 2025 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Mark Christopher Rierson 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 24th day of April, 2026.
All persons having any objection to the probate of the will of the decedent shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 24th day of April, 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.
Cassandra Zoe Rierson 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: October 30, 2025
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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.
Wednesday, November 12, 2025
At 3:00 PM
BAAV 25-086 - A request has been submitted for a variance from TOC Code Section 38-71 (a)(5) Minimum Elevation Requirements, to reduce the minimum 3’ freeboard elevation requirement above the AE-6 flood zone by approximately 2.7 feet for an interior remodel, including a lateral and vertical addition to the front of an existing interior townhouse unit. Locally known as 601 Bayshore Drive Unit 14 - parcel number 11220-5347 Unit 14.
Owner: Jeff and Kim Formosa
Builder: Ted Rhoads (Pipeline Contracting, LLC)
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NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 20879 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF VICTOR HENRY BIRCH
Notice is given that Susan Cropper Birch, 12217 Sinepuxent Rd., Berlin, MD 21811-2612, was on October 20, 2025 appointed personal representative of the small estate of Victor Henry Birch who died on September 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 interested persons or unpaid claimants having any objection to the appointment shall file their objections with the Register of Wills within 30 days after the date of publication of this Notice. All persons having an objection to the probate of the will shall file their objections with the Register of Wills within six months after the date of publication of this Notice.
All persons having claims against the decedent must serve their claims on the undersigned personal representative or file them with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates:
(1) Six months from the date of the decedent’s death; or
(2) Thirty days after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claim within thirty days from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. Any claim not served or filed within that time, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter.
Susan Cropper Birch 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: October 30, 2025
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SMALL ESTATE NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 20746 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF DAVID REED KRUPER
Notice is given that Mary M. Kruper, 13266 Rollie Rd. E, Bishopville, MD 21813-1106, was on October 20, 2025 appointed personal representative of the small estate of David Reed Kruper who died on June 07, 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 interested persons or unpaid claimants having any objection to the appointment shall file their objections with the Register of Wills within 30 days after the date of publication of this Notice. All persons having an objection to the probate of the will shall file their objections with the Register of Wills within six months after the date of publication of this Notice.
All persons having claims against the decedent must serve their claims on the undersigned personal representative or file them with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates:
(1) Six months from the date of the decedent’s death; or
(2) Thirty days after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claim within thirty days from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. Any claim not served or filed within that time, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter.
Mary M. Kruper
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: October 30, 2025
OCD-10/30/1t
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 20874
TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF JEANNETTE BAKER REMBACH
Notice is given that Paula Borinsky Hendry, 17 Sheridan Rd., Arnold, MD 21012-2319, was on October 21, 2025 appointed personal representative of the small estate of Jeannette Baker Rembach who died on October 11, 2025, with a will.
Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal representative or the attorney.
All interested persons or unpaid claimants having any objection to the appointment 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.
Paula Borinsky Hendry
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: October 30, 2025
OCD-10/30/1t
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS
Estate No. 20873 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF BENJAMIN TREJO RODRIGUEZ
AKA: BENJAMIN TREJO RODRIGUEZ
Notice is given that Pilar Simpson, 518 S. Church St., Snow Hill, MD 21863-1211, was on October 20, 2025 appointed personal representative of the small estate of Benjamin Trejo Rodriguez who died on September 27, 2025, with a will.
Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal representative or the attorney.
All interested persons or unpaid claimants having any objection to the appointment 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 un-
enforceable thereafter.
Pilar Simpson 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: October 30, 2025
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John Walter Smith Park Perimeter Trail
Worcester County is seeking Bids from qualified Vendors to contract for a walking/running trail at John Walter Smith Park in conformity with the requirements contained herein Bid Documents.
Bid Documents for the above referenced project may be obtained from the Worcester County Commissioner’s Office by either e-mailing the Procurement Officer at purchasing@worcestermd.gov or 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 Bid Document received through any third party bid service. It is the sole responsibility of the vendor to ensure the completeness and accuracy of their Completed Bid Documents.
A pre-bid meeting will be held on Thursday, November 6th at 10:00am on site at John Walter Smith Park located at 6022 Public Landing Road, Snow Hill MD 21863. The meeting will take place next to the tennis courts. The last day for questions will be noon on Wednesday, November 19, 2025. Sealed Bid Documents are due no later than Wednesday, November 26, 2025 at 2:30pm and will be opened and read aloud in the Office of the County Commissioners, Worcester County Government Center – Room 1103, One West Market Street, Snow Hill, Maryland 21863.
Late Bid Documents will not be accepted.
Envelopes shall be marked " Bid Solicitation –John Walter Smith Park Perimeter Trail” in the lower left-hand corner.
Minority vendors are encouraged to compete for award of the solicitation.
OCD-10/30/1t
TRACEY J. COATES ESQ.
COATES FAMILY LAW
4800 HAMPDEN LN., STE. 200 BETHESDA, MD 20814-2934
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 20880 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED
IN THE ESTATE OF NORRIS EARL MOLER
Notice is given that Robbin E. Moler, 2054 Bishop Dr., Charleston, SC 29414-6005 was on October 27, 2025 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Norris Earl Moler who died on June 24, 2024, 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 27th day of April, 2026.
All persons having any objection to the probate of the will of the decedent shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 27th day of April, 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.
Robbin E. Moler
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: October 30, 2025
OCD-10/30/3t
OF APPOINTMENT
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 20886 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF ELIZABETH MAE CIANCIULLI
Notice is given that Dina Cianciulli, 9100 Reedy Cove Dr., Apt. 203, Berlin, MD 21811-9503; and David Saylor, 9100 Reedy Cove Dr., Apt. 203, Berlin, MD 21811-9503 were on October 24, 2025 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Elizabeth Mae Cianciulli who died on June 04, 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 24th day of April, 2026.
All persons having any objection to the probate of the will of the decedent shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 24th day of April, 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.
Dina Cianciulli David Saylor
of Public Hearing Board of Zoning Appeals
Notice is hereby given that the Board of Appeals for the Town of Snow Hill Maryland will conduct a public hearing in accordance with the provisions of Chapter 230 Zoning, Article VI, §200 29-37 on: Wednesday, November 19, 2025 6:30PM
309 N Washington St., Town Hall Annex
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: October 30, 2025
OCD-10/30/3t
MAYOR AND COUNCIL OF
OF PROPOSED LEGISLATION ORDINANCE 2025-21
NOTICE is hereby given by the Mayor and Council of Snow Hill that Ordinance 2025-21 was introduced for first reading at a regular meeting on October 14, 2025. A fair summary of the ordinance is as follows: An Ordinance to Amend Chapter 72, Entitled Critical Area, of The Code of the Town of Snow Hill Maryland. The Mayor and Council of Snow Hill desires to update the Critical Area Ordinance as per the Critical Area Commission’s review of Ordinance 2025-10 and required minor amendments directed by the Critical Area Commission. The second reading will take place on November 11th, 2025 at the regular Town Hall meeting. A complete text of the ordinance is available for review at Town Hall, 103 Bank Street, Snow Hill, MD 21863.
For the following cases: Case No. 2025-1: To request variances to the R-2 Medium Density Residential District’s Yard and Area requirements for lot size, front, rear and side yard setbacks, for the purpose of subdividing the property into two parcels containing single family dwellings. The property is located at 204 N. Church Street, Parcel 122; Tax Account# 02-016303, owned by Annapolis Specialty Houses, Inc. The variances are being sought pursuant to the Town of Snow Hill Zoning Code, Article X Bulk Regulations, §200-91 through §200-99. For more information, contact the Snow Hill Planning Department at 410-6322080.
OCD-10/30/2t
LEWIS MCDANIELS, LLC 41 N Market St. Frederick, Maryland 21701
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR WORCESTER COUNTY, MARYLAND
Case No. C-23-CV-25-000160 (TAX SALE)
Insight Real Estate, LLC, Plaintiff, vs.
Louis Costen; Ada L. Costen; The testate and intestate successors of Louis Costen, believed to be deceased, and all persons claiming by,
through, or under the decedent; The testate and intestate successors of Ada L. Costen, believed to be deceased, and all persons claiming by, through, or under the decedent; Worcester County, Maryland; any and all unknown owners of the property and premises situate in Worcester County, Maryland, described as APP 55'X165' 113 ROSS STREET SNOW HILL and being identified on the Tax Roll as Parcel ID: 02-017385, and which may be known as 113 Ross St., Snow Hill, MD 21863, the unknown owner's heirs, devisees, and personal representatives and their or any of their heirs, devisees, executors, administrators, grantees, assigns, or successors in right, title and interest; and, any and all persons that have or claim to have any interest in the property and premises situate in Worcester County, Maryland, described as APP 55'X165' 113 ROSS STREET SNOW HILL and being identified on the Tax Roll as Parcel ID: 02-017385, and which may be known as 113 Ross St., Snow Hill, MD 21863, Defendants.
The object of this proceeding is to secure the foreclosure of all rights of redemption in the following property situate in Worcester County, Maryland, sold by the Collector of Taxes for Worcester County, Maryland, and the State of Maryland: described as APP 55'Xl65' 113 ROSS STREET SNOW HILL and being identified on the Tax Roll as Parcel ID: 02-017385, and which may be known as 113 Ross St., Snow Hill, MD 21863.
The Complaint states, among other things, that the amounts necessary for redemption have not been paid.
It is thereupon this 27th of October 2025 by the Circuit Court for Worcester County, Maryland, ORDERED, that notice be given by the insertion of a copy of this Order in some newspaper having general circulation in Worcester County, Maryland, once a week for three (3) successive weeks, the last insertion on or before the 28th day of November, 2025, warning all persons interested in the property to appear in this Court by the 27th day of December, 2025, and redeem the prop-
erty and/or answer the Complaint or thereafter a final judgment will be entered foreclosing all rights of redemption in and as to the property, and vesting in the plaintiff a title free and clear of all encumbrances.
Brian D. Shockley JUDGE
Circuit Court for Worcester County, Maryland True Copy Test: Susan R. Braniecki Clerk of the Circuit Court Worcester County MD
OCD-10/30/3t
Notice is hereby given by the Mayor and City Council of Ocean City, that a proposed Charter amendment will be introduced at the Regular Session on November 3, 2025. A public hearing and presentation of a Charter Amendment Resolution is scheduled for December 1, 2025.
Summary of proposed Charter Amendment Resolution: Section C-1406, Misdemeanors: This amends the existing charter provision so that every act or omission which, by ordinance, is made a misdemeanor under the authority of the Charter, unless otherwise provided, shall be punishable upon conviction before the Circuit Court or any other appropriate judicial forum by a fine not exceeding five thousand dollars ($5,000) or a maximum length of imprisonment not exceeding 6 months.
An exact copy of the proposed amendment is posted at City Hall, available online at oceancitymd.gov on the City Clerk webpage and can be obtained by contacting the City Clerk’s office at 410-289-8824.
OCD-10/30/1t
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Community members came out in their brightest pink outfits last Saturday, Oct. 25, for the “Making Strides Against Breast Cancer” 5K run/walk. The benefit was held on the
an effort to raise awareness and funds for breast cancer research.
By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor
(Oct. 31, 2025) A request to allow a water taxi service to continue operating in an uptown canal will advance to the Ocean City Council with a favorable recommendation from the Ocean City Planning Commission.
On Oct. 7, the commission voted to support a conditional use request from OC Bay Hopper so the business can continue operating from the 117th Street canal, adjacent to Ocean City Square. If approved by the mayor and City Council, the conditional use will remain in effect another five years.
“The business has been operating continuously and successfully from April 2019 to present day 2025,” Ocean City Zoning Administrator Sabrina Hecht said.
In 2019, the council voted to grant OC Bay Hopper a conditional use permit to operate a water taxi service from the 117th Street canal. At the time, the new business generated some controversy, as neighboring residents shared their concerns about the noise and congestion it could cause.
However, a year later, the city agreed to extend the company’s con-
ditional use permit by another five years. In a 2020 presentation to the council, council members and the company’s co-owner, Steve Butz, shared positive reports about the business.
During this month’s planning commission meeting, Hecht noted that OC Bay Hopper is now seeking a fiveyear renewal of its conditional use permit. She said the use consists of a ticketing office, two Coast Guard-approved passenger boats and a privately owned bulkhead at the 117th Street canal.
“Planning and community development staff have reviewed the conditional use as presented and finds it applicable with requirements subject to conditions,” she said.
Following a public hearing, Commissioner Tony Butta shared his support for continuing the water taxi service, noting that it helped to eliminate traffic on city roads. However, he requested that the company install a life ring buoy at the canal, and keep the gate of the fenced-in area surrounding the canal closed.
“It looked like anyone could wander in there,” he said.
For his part, Butz said he was amenable to making the changes, so long as he had permission from the city to do so. He noted that the gate was often open, as community mem-
bers on the other side of the canal use the area to access the neighboring Food Lion grocery store.
“We don’t feel like it’s within our right to tell them they can’t use the gate,” he said, adding that he would like the city’s direction on how to maintain access to the canal.
Commissioner Kevin Rohe said the situation at the 117th Street canal was no different than going to a marina, where anyone could walk up to a boat or water operation. However, he said he did support the idea of having the business add a life ring in the area.
“In recognizing that it’s a service, with children in and out, life safety features would probably be a good idea,” he said.
Rohe also recommended that the company install a bike rack. He said the addition could minimize parking impacts and increase business.
“That would cut down on any traffic,” he said.
After further discussion, the commission voted 4-0, with Commissioners Joe Wilson, Palmer Gillis and Pam Robertson absent, to approve the conditional use request and to advance the recommendation to the mayor and City Council. The conditional use would include staff conditions, as well as recommendations from the commission to install both a life ring and bike rack.
With Bunk Mann
A fire that began in the early morning hours of December 29, 1925 in the Ocean City Power Plant is still regarded as the worst fire in the town's history.
Known as "The Great Fire of 1925" it destroyed the Seaside Hotel, the Atlantic Hotel and several blocks of the Boardwalk including Dolle's Candyland, the Casino Theater, the Pier Building and the original Fishing Pier.
Ocean City's only fire engine broke down, and the blaze raged out of control before firefighters from Berlin, Snow Hill, Pocomoke, and Salisbury arrived to contain it. Hydrants were frozen in the extreme cold and holes were chopped in the ice-covered bay to enable firemen to draft water to finally quench the flames.
To purchase one of Bunk Mann’s books, click over to www.vanishingoc.com.
By Steve Green
Springing forward
A random run-in with a college friend
Vanderbilt’s college football season
Free shipping
Short emails
A shopping cart with four good wheels
The tree colors along Route 90
Giving the benefit of the doubt
Smell of Thrasher’s on a cold day
A good old laughing session
When a sunny day follows gloomy start
Audit reveals no issues with city’s finances, firm praises OC for another strong year
By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor
(Oct. 31, 2025) An audit of Ocean City government’s finances resulted in no findings or opinions by the city’s auditing contractor for the fiscal year ending June 30.
During a work session Tuesday, SB & Company’s Chris Lehman presented the Ocean City Council with an audit report on the city’s financial statements for fiscal year 2025. He said his firm was presenting the city with a clean, unmodified opinion.
“That says that the financial statements are reasonably free of material misstatement and that would be the best opinion we could give under professional standards,” he said.
Lehman said his firm found no significant findings, material weaknesses or instances of fraud. He also recognized city staff for its cooperation, as well as the accuracy and validity of the city’s financial entries.
“That speaks to the quality of records we were provided for the audit,” he said.
Finance Director Chuck Bireley and Assistant Finance Director Shawn Bunting also presented the council with the city’s Annual Comprehensive Financial Report for fiscal year 2025. They reported that the city’s net position increased by more than $12.3 million, with a $7.5 million increase reported for governmental activities and a $4.8 million increase reported for business-type activities.
“It really was a good year for the town,” Bireley said.
During the fiscal year, revenues increased 3.1%, to $163.8 million, while expenses increased 5.1%, to $151.5 million. Under governmental activities, revenues exceeded budget estimates by $1.5 million, while expenditures came in $2.5 million under budget. The unassigned fund balance increased by $5.5 million.
Interested in getting more information more quickly than our weekly OC TodayDispatch delivers? Our five-days-a-week digital newsletter might be just what you need.
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Within the governmental activities category, revenues increased by $6 million, with nearly $5 million of that attributed to an increase in property tax revenues brought on by the state’s reassessment.
Expenditures increased by $5.6 million. Bunting said that included a $450,000 increase for Beach Patrol wages, a $400,000 increase in legal fees attributed to the offshore wind opposition, and an $800,000 increase in advertising.
“It’s definitely tied to room tax,” he said, noting that those revenues had
also increased.
Under business-type activities –which includes departments that are supported by user fees and charges –the water fund’s net position increased by $2.1 million, the wastewater fund’s net position increased by $2.8 million, and the transportation fund’s net position decreased by $1.3 million. That included an $800,000 decrease in tram revenue.
The convention center reported a $900,000 increase in net position, while the airport reported a $300,000 decrease in net position. The golf course
fund reported an increase of $800,000.
“For the fifth year in a row, the golf course was profitable and did not require a subsidy from the general fund,” Bunting said.
Officials this week also reviewed the city’s pension plans and other post-employment benefits, all of which reported a 12% return on investment. They also discussed the city’s debt obligations.
In total, the city issued $4.8 million in general obligation bonds for fiscal year 2025. Its net debt decreased $5.4 million. Outstanding debt now stands at $114 million.
9748 Stephen Decatur Hwy. #112 Ocean City, MD 21842 1321-B Mt. Hermon Rd. Salisbury, MD 21804
By Tara Fischer Staff Writer
(Oct. 30, 2025) Worcester County Public Schools students and staff were recognized last week at a board of education meeting for their efforts in cultivating a positive and thriving learning community.
At the Worcester County Board of Education’s meeting on Thursday, Oct. 23, school system leaders honored students and personnel as part of two new recognition initiatives, the Heartbeat of Worcester Award and the Surge Awards.
WCPS Superintendent Annette Wallace said that the goal behind the acknowledgments is to “shine a light on those who exemplify the heart, the energy, and the spirit of our school system.”
The program’s first recipient of the Heartbeat of Worcester Award was Kimberly Purnell, who serves as a driver for Ocean City Elementary School on bus 45.
“The Heartbeat of Worcester Award honors a single staff member who goes above and beyond in service to our students, colleagues, and community,” Wallace said, while presenting the
commendation. “[Purnell] represents everything that this award stands for. Student-centered impact, excellence in service, collaboration, community engagement, and resilience. She has built relationships that truly matter and creates a warm and welcoming environment as the first face students see every morning and the last one they see every afternoon.”
The superintendent shared a note from a parent about Purnell, praising the driver.
“[Purnell] has shown nothing but genuine patience, love, and kindness to our son,” the letter reads. “We appreciate her and feel so lucky that [our son] has her to make his transition to school as smooth as possible. She’s a smiling, friendly face in the morning, and that means the world to us.”
Wallace also honored students last Thursday, through the newly kickstarted Surge Awards, aimed at recognizing kids “whose quiet strength, creativity, and leadership energize and protect those around them, much like a surge protector keeps the systems on which we rely running strong.”
Seryna Weaver of Snow Hill High School was the first recipient of the accolade. As a performing arts student, Wallace said that Weaver brings
dedication and humility to each show she participates in.
“Her presence ensures a respectful, hardworking theater community where everyone feels valued and inspired,” the superintendent added.
Quinn Westbrook from Buckingham Elementary School was also honored as a Surge Award recipient at last Thursday’s meeting.
Wallace noted that Westbrook was recognized for her careful listening skills and resilience.
every area of the arts: concert band, marching band, jazz band, choir, and theater. Whether on the stage or in the classroom, his passion for performance captivates everyone around him.”
‘She approaches every challenge with determination and gives her very best to all that she does.’
WCPS Superintendent
Annette Wallace
“She approaches every challenge with determination and gives her very best to all that she does,” Wallace said.
The third Surge Award was Dalton Tingle from Snow Hill High School, a multifaceted musician.
“I have not seen a musician who is more talented on every instrument and singing,” said the superintendent. “He is a one-person show. He is a multitalented performer who excels in
Finally, April Dashiell from Pocomoke High School received a Surge Award in the program’s first round last week. Wallace said that the high school senior is recognized for her “drive for excellence” and a willingness to collaborate with her fellow students.
“She is always eager to learn, to grow, and lift her peers through music,” Wallace said. “Her positive attitude and leadership make her a role model for performing arts students at Pocomoke High School.”
These awards aim to encourage student achievement through a culture of celebration. The initiative is a hallmark of Wallace’s first 100 days as superintendent.
PUMPKINS IN THE PARK
The second annual Pumpkins in the Park event, sponsored this year by the Calvin B. Taylor House Museum, was held last Friday night in Stephen Decatur Park. Pictured are some of the participating themed gourds created by businesses and organizations.
By Tara Fischer Staff Writer
(Oct. 31, 2025) Worcester County Public Schools’ new superintendent, Annette Wallace, presented last week on her first 100 days in the position, pledging to ensure that during her tenure and beyond, every student is on track to succeed.
The school system leader said that as part of her plan for her initial 100 days, she would engage with the school community and share her findings with the Worcester County Board of Education. Wallace provided that report at last week’s board meeting, on Thursday, Oct. 23.
“From day one, my guiding belief has been simple, yet powerful: every child is known by name, strength, and need, because the whole child is the whole point in what we do in education,” Wallace said. “These first 100 days have been about listening to the voices in our community, celebrating the incredible progress already underway, and laying the foundation for the future that’s ahead.”
The new superintendent took over for former superintendent Lou Taylor, who announced his retirement in January and formally stepped down from his post at the end of the last school year. Wallace has now tackled 100 days in the role.
During her first three months as the school system’s leader, Wallace approached her work in three phases: listen and learn, align and assess, and create and cultivate, with each period building on the last.
The first 30 days, Wallace said, were about relationships, and “understanding all of the people in our system.”
The following month was to identify where the schools’ “strengths meet the greatest opportunities,” and the final 40 days were to take action, “creating systems that cultivate trust, collaboration, and measurable progress.”
During the first 30 days, or the listen-and-learn phase, the superintendent visited schools and had conversations with community members, including each school’s principal, the system’s executive team, and the board of education.
Wallace said that she visited the summer academy programs and that a member of her team has been in classrooms almost daily since the start of the school year in September. A new superintendent’s webpage was launched, detailing initiatives and engagement opportunities, and a WCPS biweekly newsletter was kick-started for system staff.
“These were small steps towards a larger goal, ensuring communication across Worcester County is not just clear, but it’s connected,” Wallace
Saturday, November 1 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM
said. “The first phase affirmed something I already believed in: that our greatest strength in our district is our people. Their expertise, their dedication, and their deep love for our students.”
The following 30 days were to assess and align. The superintendent and her team evaluated data across measurements from state assessments to iReady and observed that Worcester County continues to demonstrate and lead in academic success.
This data review period also showcased that there is room to grow, aiming to ensure achievement for each student, Wallace said.
“We articulated a shared vision to know every child by strength, name, and need,” she added.
A priority for the school system leader has been creating a culture of “appreciation and celebration.” As such, recognition programs have recently been implemented, including awards to honor students and staff.
“These programs have one common thread: they remind us that excellence doesn’t happen in isolation,” Wallace said. “It happens in a culture that values people, uplifts all voices, and celebrates progress every day.”
Wallace has also created superintendent advisory panels to meet with students, teachers, and support staff.
“Each of these groups gives me a direct line to the people who do the work every day, ensuring decisions are informed by real-life experiences of our community,” she maintained.
Wallace emphasized that these panels were randomly selected.
“People like me had no kind of political or connection with anyone important; my parents were very hard-working middle-class people no one knew, so it was very important to me that these students and staff were randomly selected,” she said. “I want real feedback. The randomly selected teachers are also a big part of that.”
The new superintendent’s most recent 40 days were reserved to “create and cultivate.”
Part of that effort was to affirm the county’s literacy goal, which aims to ensure that every student in Worcester County will read on grade level by third grade. Each child’s progress was analyzed to identify those who need intervention.
Work has been done to advance avenues for educators to better support young learners as they transition between grade levels and schools.
“We have some exciting things on the horizon,” Wallace said. “We know that consistency builds confidence.”
Community engagement initiatives have also been a focus. Programs have been held, with the hope
of continuing and expanding, like Diet Coke with the Superintendent, where parents, students, and community members can drop in and share ideas with Wallace at a local McDonald’s.
Throughout Wallace’s first 100 days, her team discovered that to maintain a top-performing district, they must recruit and retain highly qualified educational professionals.
“Specifically hiring and recruiting educators who look like our students and seeking candidates whose background and experience mirror the community and cultures of our students,” she said.
To do this, the superintendent and her staff will contact the presidents of local HBCUs (historically Black colleges and universities), develop local homegrown talent, and accelerate hiring timelines.
“We are streamlining the recruitment and hiring process to make sure that we grab up those very best candidates very quickly,” Wallace said.
Literacy has and will remain a priority for Wallace, who said that she is excited to kickstart and continue a few initiatives. These include “Books from the Backseat,” a project she started as an assistant superintendent. The way it works is Wallace gives away books from the back seat of her car to students while she’s on-site visiting the county’s schools.
The system has also restarted the summer “Book It” program with Pizza Hut, which encourages reading to students through sixth grade. Parents who missed last summer’s initiative can reach out to WCPS personnel for details on next year.
“Also, because more pizza is always better, our library media specialists have started a ‘Hooked on Books’ partnership with Pizza Tugos where student readers are also rewarded with free pizzas,” Wallace added. “We’re very excited for that because creating and cultivating kind students who care for our community and care for each other is our number one, but my number two is creating students who are literate and go out and participate in the world. If you can also get pizza along the way, I don’t think it gets better than that.”
Wallace concluded her presentation by promising to continue the work to foster a positive school system culture and reach student achievement for every child.
“I can say at this time, after all the listening and learning, Worcester County Public Schools is the best of the best,” the superintendent said. “But we missed the mark last year with 133 students in grade three who were not reading on grade level. And the time is now to finish the job. And I promise you this: our team is ready to finish the work.”
Three years left for Cell 5 dump site, planning for new Cell 6 & 7 underway
By Brian Shane Staff Writer
(Oct. 31, 2025) Worcester County’s public works department is proceeding with plans to expand the county landfill before its current dumping ground fills up.
The county commissioners at their Oct. 21 meeting approved Public Works Director Dallas Baker’s request to build out two additional containment areas, or cells, at the central landfill.
The landfill’s current destination for detritus, known as Cell 5, is on pace to top off between December 2027 and March 2028. It means the landfill will need to have a new Cell 6 ready to go before Cell 5 reaches the end of its useful life.
The commissioners unanimously approved Baker’s request to spend $899,404 in reserve funds to contract for design, permitting, construction,
and inspection services with the firm EA Engineering, Science & Technology. The department’s Solid Waste reserve fund has a balance of more than $12 million, according to Baker.
The engineering firm already conducted the study that estimated Cell 5’s expiration date.
“The time frame to design, permit, and construct a new landfill cell before the existing Cell 5 becomes full is tight, but achievable if work begins in 2025,” Baker wrote in an Oct. 13 memo to county officials.
Planning for Cell 6 and Cell 7 was included in the county’s approved five-year Capital Improvement Plan but wasn’t part of fiscal year 2026 budget requests because cost estimates weren’t finalized.
Located along Route 113 in Newark, the landfill property covers about 700 acres, leaving plenty of room for future expansion. Cells 1 through 5 sit on about 25 acres each, and completed cells have been stabilized with dirt and grass seed.
Creating landfill cells isn’t overly complicated but does represent a
massive earthworks job for construction crews: The ground is first excavated and surrounded by berms. Crews will add a liner and layers of clay to prevent leachate, or garbage liquid, from seeping into groundwater.
They’ll also have to install pump stations, a leachate collector, monitoring wells, and new surrounding roads around each new cell, according to Baker.
All this gets designed by EA Engineering and submitted to the Maryland Department of Environment for review and permitting. Once the state approved and permits are in hand, Baker said, it all gets bid out for construction.
The county would also be required to sample monitoring wells and collect background data for 12 months
ahead of construction of a new cell. Existing monitoring wells already get sampled quarterly.
“There’s just a lot of work that goes into making sure everything’s contained on-site to prevent any type of contamination from entering the environment,” Baker said. “It’s a long process.”
County officials noted earlier this year that illegal dumping had been a mild problem at the landfill, where commercial haulers knowingly violated policy by bringing out-of-county refuse to the dump.
Baker said so far, his department has not issued any fines but is alerting commercial haulers to possible fines and suspensions if caught breaking the rule. Spot checks will commence once all haulers have been notified.
By Tara Fischer Staff Writer
(Oct. 31, 2025) The Calvin B. Taylor House Museum and the Berlin Chamber of Commerce presented their 2026 event lists this week, with the Peach Festival and the Bathtub Races returning. The Berlin Town Council approved the lineups.
In 2026, the Taylor House’s event schedule is as follows: The Pig Roast, Saturday, April 18 from 4 to 8 p.m.; 2nd Sunday at the Museum Concert, Sunday, June 14 from 6 to 7:30 p.m., 2nd Sunday at the Museum Concert, Sunday, July 12 from 6 to 7:30 p.m.; the Peach Festival, Saturday, Aug. 1 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.; 2nd Sunday at the Museum Concert, Sunday, Aug. 9 from 6 to 7:30 p.m.; 2nd Sunday at the Museum Concert, Sunday, Sept. 13 from 6 to 7:30 p.m.; and the Book Festival, Saturday, Oct. 17 from noon to 4 p.m.
The museum’s Book Festival in 2026 will coincide with the town-sanctioned Oktoberfest, said Carol Rose, a member of the Taylor House Board of Directors. The decision to coordinate with the German-inspired beer, food, and music festival comes after the success of this year’s collaboration.
According to Rose, the foot traffic from Oktoberfest drove visitors and residents to their yard’s bookish event.
“It was beautiful weather, and with folks walking and parking, we had a
wonderful afternoon on the lawn,” the museum board member said.
The logistics for the Peach Festival were also discussed before the schedule was approved this week. The August event attracts thousands annually.
Councilman Jay Knerr asked the Taylor House representatives if they had thought about the possibility of coordinating with the Town of Berlin to close Main Street for the event, because last year, he said, the Peach Festival was so crowded that people were pushed out onto the road anyway.
Heather Nottingham, museum administrator, said that facility officials are not interested in blocking Main Street for the Peach Festival, because then the event would lose its identity as a Taylor House benefit.
“It’s our biggest fundraiser of the year, and it is purely a Taylor House Museum event,” she said. “If we close Main Street, we lose our event.”
Nottingham added that she realizes the Peach Festival has grown in popularity, bringing with that some logistical challenges that come with increased crowds. However, she said they are making adjustments to ensure the event remains in the best interest of the town.
“The Peach Festival committee meets year-round because it’s such a big event, so we look at all different angles to make sure we’re meeting the needs of everyone ...” she said.
Jimmy Charles, the town’s director of public works, said that to handle the Peach Festival crowds, his team has purchased cones, barricades, and rails to keep people on the sidewalks.
“We have also looked at buying chalk to make a temporary crosswalk,” he added. “We learned a lot last year on how to bring people onto the sidewalks more.”
The municipality’s council also approved 2026 events for the Berlin Chamber of Commerce.
The chamber’s lineup is as follows: Spring Celebration, Saturday, April 4, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. (the Saturday before Easter); Spring Cruisers, Saturday, May 2, from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. (Corresponds with the Ocean City event); Bathtub Races, Friday, June 12, from 6 to 8 p.m.; Chili and Chili Peppers, Saturday, Aug. 22, 3 to 8 p.m., rain date on Saturday, Aug. 29; Fiddler’s Convention, on Friday, Sept. 25, from 6 to 10 p.m., on Saturday, Sept. 26, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., rain dates on Friday, Oct. 2 and Saturday, Oct. 3.
Berlin Chamber of Commerce representatives said that this year, they chose to do away with the popular music festival, Jazz and Blues. However, the group intends to resume the event in 2027.
Also in an effort to decrease its list of events, which the chamber said they were asked to do by the town, the team is considering eliminating the Friday
night Fiddler’s Convention date. The Saturday festival would continue.
“We are requesting approval for the Fiddler’s Convention for both Friday and Saturday; however, it is still under review to possibly discontinue Friday night,” reads a chamber letter to the municipality.
“We’re considering it,” said chamber president, Garrett Neville. “It ends up being a popular local’s night so ideally we wouldn’t, but we were putting everything on the table as far as town staff and set up, and we wanted to make sure we were being as accommodating as possible if there’s any strain on resources.”
One councilman expressed a strong desire for a two-day Fiddlers event.
“I support Friday’s Fiddler Convention,” Councilman Steve Green said. “It is a local’s event. There were a lot of people there this year, and I would like to see it continue.”
Garrett added that after their event lineup was submitted for approval, the chamber received “extreme interest” from Berlin establishments, particularly Sterling Tavern, in hosting a seafood festival.
Berlin Mayor Zack Tyndall said that they are “in the works on something as well,” and said that he would be interested in talking with the chamber on a possible seafood festival.
“Maybe we could make something work for everybody,” Tyndall said.
The uproar that should never have occurred burst into full voice last week as parents, students, political party faithful, government officials and other opinionators weighed in on the appropriateness of having a Turning Point USA chapter at Stephen Decatur High School.
They should keep quiet, because it’s no more inappropriate legally than having a chapter of the High School Republicans or Young Democrats of America or, for that matter, the Young Democratic Socialists of America.
If a student has an interest in a philosophy or any academic or non-academic pursuit, there’s a national organization for it, and, as long as these organizations are student-initiated, studentled and not sponsored or endorsed by the schools or government itself, no one can stop it.
That’s the law. In the meantime, parents, administrators and government officials are free not to like it or not. They have no license to force the kids to think or do anything in the free time after school.
Time was the battle for the hearts and minds of high school kids was being fought over whether JROTC programs should be permitted on campus. Critics argued these programs led students into a militaristic way of thinking, while organizations such as the Heritage Foundation said JROTC helped teach leadership skills. Who can say?
Unfortunately, in this instance, County Commissioner Caryn Abbott used a recent commissioners’ meeting to note the Turning Point chapter’s arrival by recognizing the group after leading the commissioners to proclaim Charlie Kirk Day. Although it’s her right to do that, she did the kids no favors by interjecting the party’s national platform into the local discussion, since it’s doubtful she would have been equally supportive of the formation of a local Muslim Students Association chapter.
The best course of action in this situation is not to beat on the board of education, or by railing at the county commissioners. The best option may be to follow the advice of of the rock group Pink Floyd, who, in its album, “Another Brick in the Wall,” sang, “...leave them kids alone.”
If I were a betting man, which I decidedly am not, I’d wager that Pete Rose continues to spin in his grave like a 100-mph fastball, now that a couple of major NBA figures have been implicated in — gasp! — illegal sports gambling activity.
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By Stewart Dobson
Rose, who went to the ball diamond in the sky last year at the age of 83, was once banned for eternity from pro baseball because he — gasp!— placed bets on his own team, which, according to Major League Baseball at the time, was, and I quote, “a very, very bad, terribly naughty thing to do.”
He had his lifetime ban lifted, incidentally, after his lifetime was over, so I’m sure he feels better about that now.
There’s also the possibility that his revolutions in the grave have throttled down to more of a knuckle-curve, although I wouldn’t bet on that or anything sports related because of my complete and total ignorance about such things.
And that’s why I am stunned — shocked even — that the legalization of sports betting has led to accusations of — gasp — cheating. After all, the various legislatures that approved and created this freedom to lose our money in new and innovative ways, agreed that, “Cheat? Noooooooooo. That’s not going to happen, and you can take our word for it.”
Of course, we all know that, legal or not,
gambling on the outcome of sports events (and politics, for that matter) has been going on for millennia.
I mean, it’s just human nature to speculate on the outcome of things and to have money riding on it. I’m sure, a few thousand years ago, someone asked, “Does anyone know the spread on Daniel vs. the Lions? Playing on the Lions home turf?”
That’s the thing with me. I don’t know anything about point spreads, overs and unders, pluses or minuses. I don’t even understand anything but the simplest odds.
“Says here the odds of Sloppy Jose winning the Derby are 16.75 to 9.76 to the power of 10,” which, according to the online odds converter, means Sloppy Jose will probably finish somewhere between diddly and squat, to my way of thinking at least.
I just don’t know and, more importantly, I don’t care that I don’t know because I can fritter away my money on more important things than gambling.
I can buy power tools, for instance. I don’t know how they work either, but at least I can hold one up and say, “Hey, everyone, is this a great looking concrete nail gun or what?”
I’ll have something to show for my expenditure. If someone were to ask me, for instance, if I was familiar with the concrete nail gun, I could say, “Why yes, yes I am.” And then, if they were to ask, “What are the odds that you’ll actually use that on a project some day?”
I’d reply, “Just bout nil, but it, unlike a bad bet, looks good hanging on the wall.
By Steve Green
It’s the timing that makes a recent request so puzzling. Last week, the Worcester County Commissioners wisely tabled a proposal to spend $840,000 so the Sheriff’s Office could provide school resource officers to private schools, mirroring what’s already done for public schools. It was the right move to hit pause — not only because of unanswered legal and logistical questions about insurance and liability, but because the proposal itself carries political baggage.
There’s no shortage of strong feelings on both sides. Supporters of the plan argue that all Worcester County students, regardless of where they attend school, deserve equal protection. To them, it’s a moral issue: a student’s safety shouldn’t depend on whether their parents choose public or private education. The fact that some of the county’s roughly 750 private school students come from outside Worcester doesn’t matter to them.
But many residents take the opposite view — and it’s an understandable one. They believe taxpayer dollars should fund public services, not private institutions. If private schools want law enforcement protection equivalent to what public schools receive, they say those schools should pay for it themselves. That’s the current model at Worcester Prep, which already funds its own security presence.
There’s a fair argument that every student deserves to feel safe at school. But private education is, by definition, a choice — one that comes with costs families knowingly assume. Expecting county government to shoulder that expense for private institutions crosses a line. According to the memo presented last week, the first-year price tag would be $840,000, or roughly $1,120 per private school student for fewer than 200 school days. The second year would still cost about $500,000.
The real head-scratcher is why this issue surfaced now — in October, a full five months after the budget was adopted. Back in the spring, a majority of commissioners declined to fully fund the Sheriff’s Office’s own budget request. The department received $19.3 million — a $2.4 million increase over last year, but still $1 million short of what the sheriff said was needed to address recruitment and retention.
Now, with those same commissioners being asked to find $840,000 more for a new initiative benefiting private schools, the timing feels tonedeaf. If the county wasn’t willing to meet public safety and public education funding requests just a few months ago, why entertain this now?
Tabling the proposal was absolutely the right call. It belongs in the next round of budget deliberations — if it belongs at all. As a parent with one child in public school and another in private school, where I volunteer as a board member, I understand both perspectives. But priorities matter. Until Worcester County fully funds its core responsibilities — public safety and public education — expanding taxpayer-funded security to private schools should not even be on the table.
It’s been a couple of weeks since the last offshore wind story hit the paper, and in that time, little has changed — except for the flurry of political letters flying back and forth.
On Oct. 16, Sen. Mary Beth Carozza sent a letter to NOAA Fisheries — advisors to the federal BOEM agency — demanding a “final rejection” of the proposed 114-turbine offshore wind project. Meanwhile, most local officials remain steadfastly opposed. Their concerns, however, seem increasingly irrelevant to those in Annapolis.
State leaders, including Gov. Wes Moore, have made their position crystal clear: offshore wind is a priority, regardless of local resistance. Attorney General Anthony Brown demonstrated that commitment this week by filing an amicus brief in federal court supporting US Wind’s attempt to secure a preliminary injunction against the Trump halt.
Brown notes that Maryland has been laying the groundwork for offshore wind since 2013. The state has already spent about $16 million, and US Wind has committed $75 million for steel and port facilities in Baltimore County, with plans that could bring more than 13,000 jobs. In his press release, Brown framed the issue as one of progress and opportunity. It’s a familiar narrative.
Local opposition has counted for little at the state level. For years, residents have voiced concerns about the project’s impact on the coast, the environment, and the tourism economy. And yet, state leaders have pressed ahead, as if these objections were mere background noise.
Maryland’s commitment to offshore wind is unmistakable and the message is clear: the state doesn’t care much about local input. For those who live on the coast and will live with the consequences, that’s a hard truth to swallow. Now as local investments are made to fight the project in court by Ocean City and Worcester County governments, as well as private contributions, the state is using its resources to push a narrative in direct opposition to the regional opinions around here.
Editor,
Affordable energy is on the horizon - President Trump is threatening its possibility.
For decades, Ocean City has been powered by energy sources that we don’t see: coal plants far inland, gas pipelines snaking through other people’s communities, and transmission lines that bring power in from elsewhere.
Now, we have an opportunity to generate sustainable, affordable electricity right off our shores with the MarWin offshore wind project. Unfortunately, political threats, including President Trump’s call to cancel offshore wind projects, could rob Ocean City of this chance.
As someone who grew up here, was inspired by our beaches and wetlands to protect our coast, and spent the last decade working in energy policy, I want to share a few key facts about why offshore wind is not a threat to our way of life, but rather, an opportunity.
I know many of you are skeptical, but hear me out. I want what is best for our community, I want to bring my future kids here to enjoy everything I did growing up, and I want it to be a better world here – more than anywhere else!– because this is my home.
I have worked across 14 energy sectors and honestly, offshore wind has always been my favorite. I went around our country and the world to learn what works and I believe the pros by far outweigh the cons for our community.
1. Offshore Wind Will Lower Electricity Bills: Your electricity bills are
not going up because of offshore wind projects.
The power you’re using today mostly comes from fossil fuels like natural gas, which experience big price spikes at the whim of volatile oil and gas markets and unpredictable supply chain disruptions. That is what is driving your bill up – not an offshore wind that has not even been built yet.
In fact, offshore wind would drive energy prices down. Once those projects come online, they will help stabilize prices by reducing our reliance on expensive, unpredictable fossil fuels.
2. Offshore Wind Will Not Harm the Fishing Industry: Contrary to popular belief, offshore wind can support, not hurt, local fishing.
Turbine foundations act as artificial reefs, attracting marine life and boosting fish stocks. A 2020 University of Rhode Island study found no negative impacts near the Block Island Wind Farm; some fishers even reported improved catches.
Regulators also collaborate with the fishing community to ensure safe navigation and coexistence. For Maryland’s fishermen, offshore wind offers a path to healthier oceans and more resilient livelihoods.
3. Offshore Wind is a Reliable, Sustainable Alternative: Unlike fossil fuels, which pump carbon into the atmosphere and drive the very sea-level rise that threatens Ocean City offshore wind is clean.
Each turbine can power thousands of homes without emitting greenhouse gases. Offshore wind also pairs well with other renewables: when the sun isn’t shining, strong offshore winds often are blowing.
And yes, I know some of you are Continued on Page 80
Continued from Page 79
worried about how the turbines will look. But let’s put that in perspective.
Right now, most of our energy comes from infrastructure you’ll never see like smokestacks in other counties, pipelines running through someone else’s backyard, power plants miles away.
This would be the first time our energy infrastructure is visible, and there’s something powerful about that.
These turbines don’t spew pollution, they won’t make kids sick, instead they’ll stand as symbols of clean energy and local resilience — something we can be proud of.
As for the view: we've all seen the fear-mongering billboards showing massive turbines looming over the beach. That’s not reality.
These turbines will be 10 nautical miles offshore. On a clear day, yes, you will spot them on the horizon but they won’t be anywhere near the sand or surf.
The real threat to Ocean City is not the potentially faint sight of turbines miles offshore.
It is clinging to the old, expensive, and polluting ways of producing energy.
Offshore wind is our chance to secure a brighter future, right here at home.
Zainab Mirza
(Oct. 31, 2025) The Ocean City Fire Department (OCFD) wrapped up a successful Fire Prevention Month by engaging with more than 800 students from pre-K through high school across local schools, including Ocean City Elementary School, Seaside Christian Academy, and several daycares.
This year’s Fire Prevention Week
focused on the importance of checking smoke alarms and promoting lithium-ion battery safety as part of the National Fire Protection Association’s (NFPA) theme: “Charge into Fire Safety™: Lithium-Ion Batteries in Your Home.” Students participated in classroom lessons, hands-on demonstrations, and a community
poster contest that encouraged families to take part in fire safety at home.
“Our biggest message this year was simple but lifesaving — check your smoke alarms,” said Ryan Whittington, community and department engagement officer for the Ocean City Fire Department. “It’s a small action that can make all the difference. We also encourage every family to have a home escape plan with a designated meeting place outside. Seeing students excited to go home, test their smoke alarms with their parents, shows that fire safety truly starts at home.”
In addition to the smoke alarm campaign, fire department personnel are spreading the message about how to safely buy, charge, and recycle lithium-ion batteries — now found in everything from cell phones to e-bikes.
“Fire Prevention Month allows us to connect with the community in a meaningful way,” said Fire Marshal Joey Sexauer. “We’re proud of how engaged our students and families were this year. By teaching children early and reinforcing these lessons at home, we’re building a safer Ocean City together.”
The department encourages all residents and visitors to test their smoke alarms monthly, replace batteries at least once a year, and replace the entire alarm every ten years.
Lithium-Ion Battery Safety Tips:
1. Buy only listed products: Look for the mark of a recognized testing laboratory.
2. Charge devices safely: Use manufacturer-approved cords and avoid charging on beds or couches.
3. Recycle responsibly: Never place batteries in household trash or recycling bins — visit call2recycle.org for a certified drop-off location.
For more information about smoke alarm safety or Fire Prevention Week, visit fpw.org or contact the Ocean City Fire Department at 410-289-4346.
By Peter Ayers Wimbrow III Contributing Writer
(Oct. 31, 2025) This week, 80 years ago, Lázlò Bárdossy de Bárdos, former prime minister of Hungary, was standing trial, charged with treason and other related crimes.
He was born on Dec. 10, 1890 in Szombathely, near the Austrian border, which today, has a population of 80,000 and is the 10th largest city in Hungary, as well as the oldest. At the time, Hungary was part of the Dual Monarchy of Austro-Hungary, with the Emperor of Austria also being the King of Hungary.
Bárdossy learned German and studied law in Budapest, Berlin and Paris. He also learned French and English. He began his career in government in 1913 at the Ministry of Culture. After World War I, the Allies separated Hungary and Austria and imposed the Treaty of Trianon on Hungary.
This Treaty emasculated Hungary and influenced its foreign affairs for the next 20 years, as it attempted to undo the parts of the treaty which had stripped it of one-third of its territory. The Treaty of Tianon dealt more harshly with Hungary than the Treaty of Versailles did with Germany.
A new Ministry of Foreign Affairs
was created for Hungary, and Bárdossy was appointed deputy chief of the Press Division of the new Ministry in 1922. From 1930 - 1934, he was the number two man in the Hungarian Embassy in London. On Oct. 24, 1934, he was appointed ambassador to Romania. After Foreign Minister István Csáky’s death, on Jan. 28, 1941, Prime Minister Pál Teleki appointed Bárdossy as his successor the next day.
These were tense times for the Kingdom of Hungary. Since the Treaty of Trianon had emasculated the kingdom, its goal had been to reverse those provisions of the treaty. With German help, steps had been taken. The first was the First Vienna Award of Nov. 2, 1938, which awarded Hungary parts of Slovakia.
Slovakia had been taken from Hungary by the Treaty of Trianon after being a part of the kingdom for a thousand years. The First Vienna Award resulted in Hungary recovering more than 3,800 square miles, with more than 900,000 inhabitants, more than half of whom were Hungarians.
The Award included the City of Kassa. Kassa is the second largest city in Slovakia, with a population of 250,000. At the time, its population was 65,000. Its Slovakian name is Košice.
The second step was the Second Vienna Award of Aug. 30, 1940, which awarded Hungary the northern half of Transylvania, which had been transferred to Romania by the Treaty of Trianon. Transylvania had been a part of the Hungarian Kingdom for 250 years.
In this award, Hungary acquired 17,000 square miles with a population of 2,700,000, of whom more than half were Hungarian. These steps, of course, put Hungary in Germany’s debt.
By this time, Germany and Slovakia had divided Poland with the U.S.S.R., France had been defeated, the U.S.S.R had defeated Finland and incorporated the Baltic states, and Germany and Italy were at war with the United Kingdom, South Africa, Australia, New
Zealand and Canada. In October 1940, the Kingdom of
Continued from Page
Italy had invaded Greece, after being specifically warned by its German ally not to do it. Things didn’t go well for the Italians, and everyone knew that the Germans would have to pull their fat out of the fire.
The Kingdom of Yugoslavia in March 1941 joined the Tri-Partite Pact, which included Germany, Italy, Japan, Romania, Bulgaria and Slovakia. A few months prior to that, the Kingdoms of Hungary and Yugoslavia had executed a Friendship Pact.
In order for the Germans to assist their Italian ally in Greece, they would have to get their troops there by traversing Hungary and Yugoslavia. Both agreed. But, a few days after agreeing and joining the Tri-Partite Pact, on March 27, 1941, a coup was orchestrated and initiated in Yugoslavia by the British. The Regent, Prince Paul, was replaced by the teen-aged king, Peter II, and the Prime Minister, Draghiša Cvetkovi , was replaced by Gen. Dušan Simovi . Immediately, the German Führer summoned the Hungarian Ambassador, Gen. Döme Sztójay, and began offering Hungary the opportunity to recover even more territory from Yugoslavia that had also been lost to Trianon. Ambassador Sztójay flew from Berlin to Budapest on Hitler’s private plane, and met with Prime Minister Teleki, Foreign Minister Bárdossy and the Regent, Adm. Miklós Horthy.
The prime minister felt that his, and the nation’s honor were at stake, as a result of the Eternal Friendship Pact. However, the Regent reasoned that Hitler had said that Yugoslavia would soon cease to exist, and therefore the Pact would be a nullity, since the other party would no longer exist. The men agreed to consult with the Minister of Defense the next day. As a result of that meeting the Hungarian Regent sent the German Führer a letter, essentially accepting his proposal.
Already, German Gen. Friedrich Paulus was in Budapest, meeting with Gen. Henrik Werth, chief of the Hungarian General Staff. Gen. Werth was told that the invasion would begin on April 12 and Hungarian troops should advance three days later. Meanwhile, the United Kingdom threatened to declare war on Hungary if it invaded Yugoslavia.
On April 3, Prime Minister Teleki, feeling dishonored and shamed, committed suicide. Bárdossy was, on that day, appointed his successor. Unbeknownst to him, it was also a death sentence. In his suicide note, Count Teleki said, “You have thrown away our honor. We have joined the side of gangsters.”
The Wehrmacht invaded Yugoslavia on April 6, 1941. The UK severed diplomatic relations. On April 10, Croatian independence was declared and immediately recognized by the Axis countries, thereby fulfilling
Hitler’s prediction that Yugoslavia would cease to exist. Now, there was no more Yugoslavia.
This was the same sequence which the Germans followed with regard to Czecho-Slovakia. After guaranteeing Czecho-Slovakia’s integrity at Munich, the Germans reasoned that, once Slovakia became independent, its guarantee evaporated, because the country that it guaranteed no longer existed.
The Royal Hungarian Army made its move, incorporating another 4,440 square miles with 1,000,000 inhabitants, of whom 40% were Hungarian, into the Kingdom’s borders.
Operation Barbarrosa was launched on June 22, 1941, by Germany, Finland, Slovakia, Croatia, Italy and Romania. The Germans did not ask Hungary for a contribution, and it offered none. On June 26, three Soviet fighters attacked a Hungarian train. An hour later, unidentified (to this day) planes dropped 29 bombs on Kassa. They could have been Soviet and had an old map showing the city still within Slovakian borders.
In any event, war was declared. On Dec. 5, the Red Army launched a massive offensive, driving the Wehrmacht from the gates of Moscow and the United Kingdom declared war on Hungary. The next day, Australia, Canada, South Africa and New Zealand followed suit. Hungary declared war on the United States on Dec. 11, 1941. All occurred during Bár-
dossy’s term as prime minister, which ended on March 7, 1942, when he was replaced by Miklós Kállay.
Bárdossy’s trial was scheduled to begin, before the People’s Court, on Oct. 29, 1945 — less than two weeks after he had been served with the indictment. On Nov. 2, he was, of course, convicted and sentenced to die by hanging. His appeal was heard on Dec. 28, and the judgment affirmed. Execution was scheduled for Jan. 10, 1946.
The night before his execution, the Supreme National Council changed the method of execution to firing squad, but the condemned did not learn of the change until he arrived at the site of the execution. In any event, he was spared a gruesome, painful death, because Hungarian hangings were not as merciful as those of the Anglo-Americans.
When the command to fire was given, the former Prime Minister shouted, “May God preserve the country from these...,” at which point the bullets slammed into his body. But they didn’t do the job. It had to be finished by handgun, at close range.
Next week: Monuments Men Mr. Wimbrow writes from Ocean City, Maryland, where he practices law representing those persons accused of criminal and traffic offenses, and those persons who have suffered a personal injury through no fault of their own. He can be contacted at wimbrowlaw@gmail.com
By Bruce C. Walls Contributing Writer
(Oct. 31, 2025) Stephen Decatur’s defense swarmed the Buccaneers of Kent Island for the football team’s sixth straight win last Friday at the Louis H. Taylor Stadium, 35-0.
Tight end Brett Schulz made the first touchdown of the evening in the first quarter with just under 5.5 seconds left on the clock, demonstrating his receiving skills.
Schulz is a versatile player making many tackles and blocks during the
game. He protects the quarterback during pass plays, while being available for receptions as a tight end.
After the game, Schulz said, “It felt good. It was nice. I think our team came out and did really well, great, against a really good Kent Island team.” Coach Jake Coleman said, “Brett Schultz is a tight end who can do it all.”
The second quarter started with a 7-0 score. Nine minutes into the quarter, quarterback Johnny Hobgood handed off the ball to Kyle
Mumford, who rushed the touchdown to put Decatur up 14-0. With 1:40 left in the quarter, Brody Lynch caught a long pass from Hobgood for another Stephen Decatur touchdown and point by Blake Wallace (21-0).
The Seahawks earned 238 yards with 131 rushing yards and 107 passing yards, while the Buccaneers could boast only 25 rushing yards going into half time.
In the third quarter, Brian Chester caught a Hobgood pass and scored with eight minutes left to play, ending
the quarter 28-0.
With only four minutes left to play, Jaxon Archer scored, capping the 350 ending. The Seahawks ended with a total of 431 yards and the Buccaneers with 58.
“Put it all together. It was great. We got one more,” Coach Coleman said. “The defense came out; our rush attack was strong. Very, very proud of them. Just to come out and face a physical team like Kent Island and really bring the physicality to them is something that we’re very proud of. “
By Bruce C. Walls
Contributing Writer
(Oct. 31, 2025) Stephen Decatur’s field hockey team lost a heart breaker in double overtime on Tuesday, bringing its season to an end.
Decatur and South River were tied 1-1 at the half. South River held the lead for much of the second half, 2-1, until senior Bailey Griffin capitalized on a penalty shot to tie the score.
The first overtime ended with the score still tied. With five minutes to go in the second overtime, South River converted off a set play to win the 3A East II Region final.
Decatur tied South River 2-2 in the region final before two overtime periods. In the second 10-minute overtime, with five minutes, South River converted on a set play to win 3-2.
During the first quarter of the Anne Arundel game, the Seahawks took several shots on the goal making none. In the second quarter, Bailey Griffin and Skylar Price each found the net from
inside the circle.
At 12:41 in the fourth quarter, Morgan Michalski powered one in and three minutes later Price scored her second goal of the game.
“A 4 to nothing win, you always have to feel good about that,” Coach Katie Griffin said after the semi-final win. “I was a little disappointed in our final count, 49 shots on the goal I think we should have had more goals. They played really tough in the circle. They (Anne Arundel) packed the circle with lots of players, and we needed to go into the air to get over all those sticks and we just weren’t quite able to do it but again, we did score four goals, so it’s nothing to be upset about.”
Griffin added, “In tough situations, we just need to find a way to score. I feel like it took us a while and we should have had more with that many shots. I think we had 20 corners. We should have had more goals. They fought the whole time. So, it was a good game.”
Stephen Decatur’s boys soccer team won the Class 3A regional final game on Tuesday, advancing to the state quarterfinals in the Maryland Public Secondary Schools Athletic Association playoffs. The Seahawks won in dramatic fashion. After playing to a scoreless tie, Decatur won a penalty kick shootout on Tuesday night over Severna Park. Converting on penalties were seniors Elijah Isett, Blake Wallace and Collin Pennington and junior Gannon Eastlack. Decatur missed its first penalty kick but converted its final four shots.
At left, the heroes in the game were goalie Jonah DeVito, left, a sophomore who stopped two penalty shots in addition to having a clean sheet in regulation, while Eastlack, right, delivered the game winner to secure the thrilling victory. Severna Park was successful on its first three penalty shots but missed its final two at a critical time.
Last Saturday, Decatur defeated South River, 2-0, to advance to the regional final. Decatur will now host the state quarterfinal game on Saturday as the number one seed. This is also Decatur’s first year competing in the state’s 3A postseason.
On the flipside, Stephen Decatur’s girls soccer team’s successful season came to an end on Tuesday, falling in the 3A Regional final to Severna Park, 5-1. Last Saturday, Decatur defeated South River, 3-2, at home to advance to the regional final. Decatur finished its season 12-3 with a Bayside Conference title. Throughout the season, the team outscored its opponents, 87-9, with nine shutouts.
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