Police investigation into crash that claimed life of child classifies Boardwalk as a road, thus leading to conclusions that braking system was inappropriate and that tram’s payload far exceeded Jeeps’ rated towing capacity.— Page 3
Commissioners figure going against US Wind’s plan for dock property could benefit from public relations help. — PAGE 12
By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor
(Jan. 3, 2025) The investigation into the tram collision that killed a toddler on the Boardwalk this summer has revealed a series of motor vehicle violations.
In mid-December, the Ocean City Police Department (OCPD) concluded its investigation into the Aug. 20 incident, when a toddler from Princess Anne was struck and killed by a tram traveling south on the Boardwalk near Dorchester Street.
While no charges will be filed against the tram driver, police concluded various equipment violations – including improper braking systems and towing capabilities – played some role in the fatality, according to files obtained through a Maryland Public Information Act request filed by this newspaper last month.
“After reviewing evidence on scene, video evidence and the medical examiner’s report it is clear to me [victim’s name redacted] did not receive injuries that caused his death until the Jeep had almost come to a complete stop,” Cpl. Michael Karsnitz, an investigator in the case, reported. “Had the Jeep been in compliance with the Maryland Transportation Article and had functioning brakes on the rear tram trailer I believe
it would have been able to stop before causing the fatal injury to [the victim].”
With the investigation now ended, city officials are left to evaluate the future of the tram service. Citing a potential lawsuit, City Manager Terry McGean declined to comment on tram operations.
However, McGean did issue a statement that said the city’s suspension of tram services would continue as options are explored.
“The Town of Ocean City is devastated by the loss of life that occurred on our Boardwalk in August 2024. We took immediate action by suspending tram operations. The findings of the Ocean City Police Department, as set forth in their report, have identified certain issues with the tram system and we take those findings very seriously,” he wrote.
“We have always prioritized passenger and pedestrian safety in our tram operations; but given the gravity of this situation, tram service will not resume until our operations have been fully reevaluated and possibly changed to provide for the safest possible tram experience for our residents and visitors. We are committed to learning from this tragedy. Although we know it will never be enough, our deepest condolences go out to the family and all those
Continued from Page 3
affected by this devastating accident.”
Investigation finds tram issues
On Aug. 20, 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 two-year-old boy, 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 delves deeper into the tram fatality on what police consider to be a public roadway. Investigators concluded that the Jeep pulling the tram trailers was towing more than three times the weight permitted under state and federal law.
They also found the rear trailer had no braking capacity, a rear brake actuator had no brake fluid, and that both tram trailers were equipped with “surge brakes,” all of which are violations of the Maryland Transportation Article. Surge brakes, which are activated by the movement of the towed vehicle and not by the vehicle operator, are not permitted under state law if the towing vehicle and its load exceed the manufacturer’s weight rating.
“The combination of vehicles and braking systems involved in the collision played a consequential role in the death of [child’s name redacted],” Karsnitz wrote in his report. “The Jeep and both trailers it was towing was in violation of the Maryland Transportation Article.”
Police also noted that the height of the Jeep had hindered the driver’s ability to see the young victim. Both the tram driver and tram conductor told police they did not see the victim crossing the tram lane at the time of the incident.
As a result, the tram continued driving south after hitting the child with the Jeep’s front bumper. The victim’s father also told police the tram driver failed to see him and other witnesses, who were standing to the right of the Jeep, trying to catch the driver’s attention by waving their hands.
“[The driver] stated he did not know he hit the child until he felt the Jeep go over something,” Cpl. Harry Miller, another investigator, reported.
“[The driver] stated he then immediately applied the brakes. [The driver] advised people began running over to the front of the Jeep and he realized what happened.”
Jeep use questioned
Earlier this year, the Town of Ocean City celebrated the 60th anniversary of its Boardwalk tram operation. Since its inception in June 1964, the trams have been an integral part of Ocean City’s Boardwalk scene.
The trams have undergone many iterations throughout the decades, however, with the most recent changes taking place in late 2017, when the mayor and council opted to replace two
of the trams’ old towing units with Jeeps.
The vehicles, which were also used for the Boardwalk trams in the 1990s, were chosen for their efficiency and lower price tag.
However, this decision was contrary to the opinions of members of the Ocean City Transportation Department, emails obtained by the OC Today-Dispatch show. Transportation Operations Manager George Peake wrote on Sept. 3 that tram drivers had expressed concerns about the safety of the Jeeps prior to their purchase.
“The majority of the tram drivers preferred NOT to drive this Jeep, due to forward and right front visibility … Although the least costly of the alternative(s) Transportation recommended against the option due to line of vision.”
Peake wrote that the city’s transportation department had presented several alternatives, including electric-, diesel- and gas-powered towing vehicles. He also said the Jeeps were acquired against the department’s recommendations.
“If the City decided to go with the Jeeps as an alternative, Transportation did make recommendations as to their configuration,” he wrote in his email to department heads. “The City chose the Jeeps and NOT the configuration recommended.”
When asked last month if the city or transportation department had received complaints about Jeep safety, McGean responded, “We have not received complaints from tram drivers regarding the safety of the Jeeps.”
In the fall of 2018, the mayor and council instituted additional tram upgrades, approving the purchase of eight new Boardwalk tram trailers and new Jeeps to pull them at a cost of $1.4 million. The purchase also included $28,000 for new camera equipment on the Boardwalk trams, as well as another $83,000 to elevate the ride height of the Jeeps.
Resort officials to explore tram options
The suspension of tram service since Aug. 20 is likely to continue throughout 2025, McGean said.
Meanwhile, officials are exploring options for replacing or modifying the existing trams.
“No final decision has been made regarding the purchasing/leasing/modifying and it would be premature to speculate,” McGean said of those options. “Funding would come from the general fund.”
According to emails provided to the OC Today-Dispatch, discussions on the future of the trams began as early as the day after the accident. Since that time, city staff have contacted national companies to conduct a safety audit of its tram system.
They have also contacted Severn Lamb, the successor to Trams Interna-
By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor
(Jan. 3, 2025) Worcester County State’s Attorney Kris Heiser said no charges will be filed against the tram driver involved in a fatal collision that killed a toddler on the Boardwalk this summer.
While acknowledging that equipment violations and inadequate equipment maintenance may have affected the tram’s braking response in a fatal collision that occurred on Aug. 20, Heiser concluded that the tram driver did not operate the vehicle in a negligent manner.
The Ocean City Police Department recently concluded its investigation into the accident that killed a two-year-old boy on the Boardwalk near Dorchester Street. As part of its investigation, the full report was submitted to the Worcester County State’s Attorney’s Office for review and a recommendation of any criminal charges.
“In the moments just before the collision, the Jeep was traveling at approximately 3 to 5 miles per hour,” she wrote. “[Driver’s name redacted] stopped the Jeep immediately upon realizing what had occurred, and he stayed on scene until police arrived.
“Prior to beginning his shift driving the Jeep, [driver’s name] completed the Tram Operator Pre-Trip Checklist and noted no issues with the vehicle’s operation. [Driver’s name] cooperated fully with the police investigation, and there is no evidence that he was driving distracted or impaired by any substance.”
tional – the company that sold the tram trailers to Ocean City – to acquire options and pricing for a new, road-legal tram design.
However, lead times to build and deliver new trams range between 12 and 16 months, and replacement could cost nearly $600,000 for each new tram vehicle.
Complicating those efforts, officials say, are the licensing requirements to operate the tram vehicles. While the city has not required tram drivers to have a commercial driver’s license (CDL), Ocean City police, in their incident report, concluded that a CDL with a double/triple endorsement is required to operate the trams on the Boardwalk. Police reported that the tram driver involved in the fatality had a CDL, but without the required endorsement.
“I asked [the driver] if he knew he needed a Double/Triple endorsement and he stated he did not know that,” Miller reported. “[The driver] stated that there were several drivers of the trams that did not even possess a CDL License. [The driver] advised me that it was the Transportation Department’s under-
Heiser, however, did note that the investigation found several equipment violations, “a combination of which may have impacted the timing of and responsiveness of the Jeep and attached tram trailers to [driver’s name]’s braking.” She said the Ocean City Police Department and the Maryland State Police Automotive Safety Enforcement Division had found that the rear trailer had no braking capability, the brake actuator on the rear tram trailer had no brake fluid, the Jeep was towing more weight than permitted, and that both tram trailers were equipped with surge brakes, all of which are violations of the Maryland Transportation Article.
“None of these equipment violations existed due to [driver’s name]’s actions or inaction, nor was he responsible for the detailed inspection or maintenance of any vehicles or tram equipment owned by the Town of Ocean City,” she wrote.
“No evidence indicates that [driver’s name] had actual knowledge of the function of either tram trailer’s braking ability independent of the Jeep’s braking ability or independent of the other tram’s braking ability. He had not experienced any problems with braking during the first three hours of his shift prior to the collision. Finally, there is no evidence to suggest that [driver’s name] knew or should have known that these equipment violations existed or what effect, if any, they were likely to have in combination with the braking ability and tow capacity of the Jeep.”
standing that the Boardwalk was not a road and no special licenses or endorsements were needed to operate the tram.”
When asked if the city would be cited for the motor vehicle violations, or if city officials believe the Boardwalk is a road in the legal sense, both McGean and City Solicitor Heather Stansbury declined to comment.
Investigation concludes with more questions
While the future of Ocean City’s tram operation is unclear, one thing is certain – this summer’s incident and the subsequent suspension of the Boardwalk trams will take a toll on the city’s coffers.
Tram service generated more than $1.5 million in ticket and ad sales in fiscal year 2024, all of which would be lost if a suspension continues into 2025. Before service was suspended in August, tram revenues for fiscal year 2025, which began July 1, totaled $746,657.
There is also the matter of changing the tram system and hiring tram drivers with CDL licenses, should the operation resume. In addition, the Town of Ocean City has been notified that a lawsuit concerning the August fatality is pending.
Stunning 4BR/4.5BA Home– A Must-See! Welcome to this breathtaking 4-bedroom, 4.5-bathroom brick colonial home, located in a prestigious Ocean Pines neighborhood. With a spacious 4,760 square feet of living space, this exceptional property offers the perfect balance of timeless elegance and modern comforts. Built by the renowned T & G Builders, the home is available for immediate occupancy, and at just $178 per square foot, it presents a rare opportunity in today’s market. The home features a three-car garage, ensuring your vehicles are well-protected from the elements. Additionally, if you're a boating enthusiast, slips may become available at the nearby Pines Point Marina, or you can rent one to keep your boat close by. As you approach the home, the classic brick exterior exudes timeless charm and durability, offering minimal maintenance while maintaining an exceptional curb appeal. MLS MDWO2023024
424 LARK LANE #E303 OCEAN CITY • $273,900
This 2BR/1BA condo is currently being used as an Airbnb and the rental income is amazing. The condo is being sold furnished and is in move in ready condition. It is close to restaurants, shops, Jolly Roger, the boardwalk and beach. The complex has a large outdoor pool. Come take a look today before it's SOLD! MDWO2020908
Welcome to your dream home, crafted by the prestigious RBR HOMES LLC! This exquisite 4-bedroom, 2.5-bath coastal farmhouse is nestled in the sought-after Triple Crown Section of Ocean Pines, where coastal charm meets modern luxury. As you approach, the inviting front covered porch beckons you inside. Step into a bright, airy atmosphere featuring warm wood tones and luxurious vinyl floors paired with crisp white walls throughout. The heart of the home is a beautifully designed kitchen, boasting abundant storage, stunning quartz countertops, stainless-steel appliances, and tasteful wood accents that blend functionality with style. Entertaining is a breeze with a spacious dining area that seamlessly connects to a two-story vaulted family room, complete with a cozy gas fireplace—perfect for those chilly fall and winter evenings.
MDWO2023592
Welcome to this exquisite end-unit condo in the desirable Baywatch II community, located in the heart of Heron Harbour. Offering spacious living and breathtaking waterfront views, this larger 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom home boasts a highly sought-after floor plan that is perfect for both relaxation and entertaining. The condo is being sold fully furnished and has been well maintained. Residents of this community enjoy two outdoor pools, an indoor pool, a kiddie pool, fitness center, social room, sauna, locker room, two Har-Tru tennis courts, and access to peaceful sidewalks and piers for walking and enjoying the beautiful surroundings. MDWO2026948
Recently remodeled 5BR/4.5BA waterfront estate on 2+ acres with boat slip hits the market! If you are looking for an incredible home on a beautiful piece of property with breathtaking views overlooking Assateague Island, look no further. This home boasts 6,482 sq. ft. of luxury and comes with boat slip #3.
Upgrades recently completed: Outside exterior painted, interior painted, complete remodel of all bathrooms throughout the home, new kitchen floor, upgraded lighting, new refrigerators, landscaping, HVAC system are newer as well. You could not build this home for the asking price.
MDWO2020966
Welcome to a truly exceptional residence where luxury meets waterfront tranquility. This stunning 5-bedroom, 6-full-bathroom, and 2-half-bathroom Bayfront home, epitomizes coastal elegance with 145 feet of direct bay frontage and captivating southern exposure. Step through the elegant front door and be immediately entranced by the intricate details and high-end upgrades throughout.
MDWO2014714
This is a prime location in sought-after Fenwick Island! This is an extremely rare opportunity to purchase C-1 commercial land in Fenwick Island DE close to the beach and Atlantic Ocean. A salty breeze carries the scent of the Atlantic Ocean as you stand on these 4 commercially zoned C-1 parcels in Fenwick Island. DESU2059926 DESU2059940 MOBILE HOME PARKS FENWICK ISLAND, DE OFFERED AT $2.1 MILLION EACH $4.2 MILLION TOTAL
By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor
(Jan. 3, 2025) After rekindling a decades-old relationship, a local couple shared their vows last week in the place where it all started – Ocean City.
On Monday, Dec. 23, Laraine Grant and Vince Ryan were married by Santa Claus on the beach at 144th Street. Joined by loved ones, the couple celebrated their union, as well as a love story that spanned decades.
“It’s just surreal,” Grant said.
In 1977, in the midst of their divorces, Grant and Ryan met at a professional dart competition. One of their first dates, Grant said, was a trip to Ocean City.
“We clicked immediately,” she recalled. “He was like sunshine to me.”
However, the relationship ended three years later, and both went on to marry other people. In 2023, after a death in Ryan’s family, the couple reconnected.
“I had not talked to him but one time in all those years,” Grant said. “I called to express my condolences, and we found out both of us were widowed. So, one thing led to another.”
While both are from the Rockville area, Grant said Ryan had purchased a place in Ocean City years ago. After reconnecting, Grant joined Ryan at the beach, where their relationship rekindled.
“He invited me down and we started picking up where we left off before, and it got real serious …,” she said. “He proposed, and I said yes.”
Now full-time residents of Ocean City, the couple celebrated their union last week with an intimate wedding ceremony on the beach. Santa Clause officiated.
“We picked up where we left off …,” she said. “You don’t always marry the love of your life, and he was that.”
By Tara Fischer Staff Writer
(Jan. 3, 2025) Worcester County Public Schools could change the way professional development days are scheduled during the 2025-2026 academic year.
A presentation to the Board of Education on Dec. 17 by the school system’s coordinator of public relations, Carrie Sterrs, showed to options to be voted on by the faculty before Superintendent Lou Taylor makes his recommendation to the board in February.
The model proposes two full-day professional development sessions staggered between schools. Option A would close high schools and elementary schools for students on Sept. 17 and Feb. 4 for staff professional development while special,
middle, and intermediate schools remain open.
On Nov. 12 and March 4, middle and intermediate schools would close for professional development while the high schools and elementary schools would carry on as usual.
Option B proposes full-day professional development closures for high and elementary schools on Sept. 17 and Feb. 4 and professional development for special, middle, and intermediate school staff on Oct. 8 and March 4. Each of these professional development days in both schedules falls on a Wednesday.
Sterrs said the 2023-2024 schedule of half-day professional development sessions on the second Wednesday of most months was not well received. Some families and staff
members cited childcare concerns that were not present when these professional days were held on Fridays. Even so, the shift to Wednesdays in 2023-24 did produce improved student attendance and staff participation, Sterrs said.
The 2024-2025 calendar essentially did away with professional development altogether, except for the countywide professional development day in November.
The new system attempts to bring back professional development for teachers in a way that does not affect student attendance and encourages staff participation.
“The half days were not what we wished for as far as student attendance and staff attendance, so that is not an option for us,” said Annette Wallace, the school system’s chief operating and academic officer.
Some board members, however, were critical of the proposals, with member Elena McComas asking if the committee that developed them had asked families and parents how they felt about closing high schools on days when middle schools remained open and vice versa.
Wallace replied that this decision was made with childcare challenges in mind. High school students would be available to offer babysitting services to elementary children, for instance, because they will be off on the same days. Middle school students are more likely to stay home alone.
Board member Katie Addis argued that the new model would be a “big change” for families. She proposed that the school system offer a third option that differs from the latest professional development choices to give parents a voice.
“I feel like it would be smart on our part to have an option that isn't this,” she said. “I see the point of these two options, but I also think it would be smart to have one of our old models … just so we can let our parents have that voice to be able to say, ‘I don't like this option at all, I like the old one,’ or ‘I don't mind this,’ because I see a lot of pushback... I feel like that voice needs to be heard to be able to make a true decision on this.”
Board member Jon Andes said his concern was that the program would eliminate two days of schools for young learners.
The previous half days were worked in so that students were still given 180 days of instruction, while the new model would cut that down to 178.
“I understand staff development,” he said. “What bothers me is losing two days of instruction for our students.”
Denise Shorts, chief academic officer, argued that half days for development hurt the ability to offer meaningful professional learning. Taylor, however, agreed that members’ concerns were valid, adding that the school system will continue to deliberate the calendar choices.
“Let's go back and take a look at some things and then come back with something because I am hearing two legitimate concerns, so we’ll talk about it and go from there,” the superintendent said.
By Brian Shane Staff Writer
(Jan. 3, 2025) Sometimes, even David needs a public relations firm in his corner to take on Goliath.
Given federal and state apathy to Worcester County’s offshore wind concerns, the county’s Board of Commissioners on Dec. 17 voted unanimously to contract with Bedrock Advocacy Communications, a public relations firm based in Virginia.
The agency will help with grassroots mobilization, strategic communications, and online engagement for a 2025 campaign to oppose ongoing wind farm development off the Atlantic Coast, according to Worcester County Chief Administrative Officer Weston Young.
Young said when it comes to protesting the planned 114-turbine wind farm by developer US Wind, there have been a lot of grassroots efforts, but none that were coordinated. He said Bedrock will serve as the campaign developer and manager, working collaboratively with representatives from Worcester County, Ocean City, and the local business community.
“By the county taking the lead on this, we are trying to bring a larger coordination to the process,” Young said in an interview. “The goal is, how do we get everybody else to understand it? How do you win in the court of public opinion? Or if there’s a very critical vote going on, how do you get mobilized to stop it?”
Hiring a PR team goes “hand-inhand” with other efforts to fight US Wind’s plans, Young said, including the Town of Ocean City’s lawsuit against the federal government seeking to block the project.
This also dovetails with the county’s recent plan to pursue eminent domain to thwart the developer’s plans to purchase two commercial fish houses in West
Stay informed with our digital newsletter
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.
We have developed an in-your-morningemail product (with updates for breaking news) and invite you to give it a try.
If you sign up now, you’ll get a free threemonth trial subscription, to what will become available by paid subscription only for a nominal charge. How nominal? $1 a month or $10 a year to cover our production costs.
Sign up and get three months free by emailing subscriptions@oceancitytoday.net or visit the OC Today-Dispatch online.
Ocean City, Young said. US Wind wants to build an operations and maintenance facility for turbines on those harborside parcels, and the state’s Board of Public Works already granted the permits for that in November.
“I’ve heard the ‘David versus Goliath’ saying, but we’re fighting a state and current federal government that really wants offshore wind. They’re not listening to local concerns,” Young said.
“What we realized when we went to the Board of Public Works – they don’t care. They turned a deaf ear to us. The person who came closest to empathy for our situation was the treasurer (Dereck E. Davis) but at the end of the day he still voted against it because the state and other areas have their own priorities,” he added.
Young also said one of the partners in the PR firm, Bernie Merritt, is a full-time Fenwick Island resident and former town councilman there. When reached for comment, Merritt said it’s “dear to my heart to be a part of this,” but declined to comment further or discuss what his agency will do for Worcester County as a client.
Per a vote of the County Commissioners, Worcester’s contribution to the campaign will not exceed $100,000 and is already an approved expenditure from the general fund. And while Young said additional money will come from contributions by Ocean City and private donations, Ocean City is still working on that.
“I am aware of the County’s hiring of Bedrock and I agreed to cost sharing in concept with Weston (Young),” said City Manager Terry McGean in a Dec. 23 email. “However, I have not received the formal request from Weston at this time. Once I do, then I will take to the [mayor and town] council for their approval.”
The initiative is being developed as a public-private partnership and the lead on the county’s end is Melanie Pursel, Worcester County’s tourism director. She said a fundraiser was held a few weeks ago where they introduced Bedrock.
“Some people wanted to give larger contributions, and they didn’t know – what am I putting it towards? People were going in their own directions, and they still are, but there’s all these groups that want to channel their voice somehow,” she said. “It’s about harnessing all this effort collaboratively.”
The impetus to engage with a PR firm came in the wake of attempts to get everyone – environmentalists, watermen, business owners, government agencies, and more – on the
same page with the issue.
Further, it was engagement with one specific group, commercial fishermen, that truly revealed the impact of US Wind taking over the West Ocean City fish house properties. That, she said, directly led Worcester County to start the process of trying to purchase the fish houses to preserve the commercial fishing industry for the commercial harbor.
“That’s when, I think, we were like – this is serious,” she said.
Another reason to use a PR firm is for education. Pursel said the website they’ll create will be a clearing house for articles, information, and stakeholders. She especially wants the public to know how the multiphase project has evolved – how a promise of turbines being shorter and farther away gave way to a plan for turbines planted 10.7 miles offshore and taller than an 80-story skyscraper. She called it a “bait and switch.”
Even though tourists spent an estimated $2.6 billion last year in Worcester County, with the lion’s share being in Ocean City, “sometimes it seems like we don’t have the political influence that other areas have.”
“We feel like nobody is listening to these very valid issues, from the environment to the economy, that have yet to be properly addressed,” Pursel said. “I think it’s this perception that the state has committed to this –there are commitments that have been made and they don’t want to backtrack on things. They don’t look at the whole project because they don’t want to.”
“I guess the state thinks they’ll survive without Ocean City, without the commercial fishermen. They’re pushing through these things without looking at the whole ecosystem of our state. Can you imagine us going in and trying to cannibalize an industry in Howard County or Prince George’s County?” she said.
So far, US Wind’s two projects –called Marwin I and Momentum Wind – are on track and expected to be operational by 2026. There is some uncertainty, however, because the incoming administration of President-elect Donald Trump has made overtures about stomping out offshore wind projects when Trump takes office.
One major wind project off Maryland’s coast has already been scrapped. The developer Ørsted announced in January it decided to pull out of two planned wind farms, called Skipjack Wind, saying the projects were “no longer commercially viable” due to inflation, high interest rates, and supply chain constraints.
The Montego Bay community hosted the 2nd Annual Crab
on Dec. 7. More baskets were decorated by residents this year, totaling 142 baskets, which made an even more spectacular tree and lighting ceremony. Every basket is decorated and donated to the tree project bringing together the community in the spirit of Christmas. Christmas carols were sung as Santa gave out candy canes and the snow, pictured, made for a festive atmosphere. The
By Brian Shane Staff Writer
(Jan. 3, 2025) The motorcyclist who inflicted life-changing injuries on a local teenager after allegedly driving drunk in Ocean City now has a court date scheduled.
Michael Scot Schneider, 51, is scheduled for a Feb. 12-13 jury trial in Worcester County Circuit Court before Judge Leah Seaton, where he’ll be facing three criminal charges and seven traffic charges.
A preliminary hearing is also scheduled for Jan. 15 before Judge Brian Shockley, according to online court records. Records also show Schneider has secured the legal services of an attorney with the public defender’s office.
Criminal charges include two counts of causing a life-threatening injury to another person while operating a motor vehicle while under the influence, and one count of causing a life-threatening injury to another person while operating a motor vehicle while impaired by alcohol.
His traffic charges include driving under the influence of alcohol, driving while impaired by alcohol, failure to return and remain at the scene of an accident involving bodily injury, knowing reasonably that an accident might result in serious bodily injury, failure
of a driver to furnish their license, and failure of a driver in an accident with bodily injury to furnish their license. Schneider is also charged with driving under the influence of alcohol per se, which means his blood-alcohol concentration measurably exceeded the legal limit. A person can be charged with this offense in Maryland based on a blood draw or breath test even if they’re not visibly drunk or impaired – though police said Schneider was exhibiting slurred speech and glassy eyes when officers met him.
The accident happened around 9:30 p.m. on Sept. 13. Police said 16-year-old Tyler Walsh of Selbyville was walking in a marked crosswalk at 12th Street and Philadelphia Avenue in Ocean City.
The high-speed impact caused devastating injuries that were so serious that witnesses at the scene were sure he would not survive, according to the police report. Schneider also crashed his motorcycle into two parked vehicles and fled on foot. Police later found him at the West Ocean City Park and Ride and took him into custody. Walsh was airlifted to Shock Trauma in Baltimore. He has since been on a long road to recovery, including multiple surgeries, and will have limited mobility as a result of his injuries.
By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor
(Jan. 3, 2025) A $300,000 grant will allow a local agency to complete structural and exterior improvements to the historic Henry Hotel in Ocean City.
stuff done outside, we need to get other stuff done inside …. “This money will not go to waste.”
Gov. Wes Moore on Dec. 18, announced the state had awarded $129.5 million in grants in fiscal year 2025 to support seven state revitalization programs administered by the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development.
Under the strategic demolition fund, the Ocean City Development Corporation was awarded $300,000 to proceed with improvements to the Henry Hotel, located on South Division Street.
The Henry Hotel is one of a few 19th century structures remaining in Ocean City. Located on the corner of South Division Street and South Baltimore Avenue, the building was purchased in 1926 by Charles T. Henry, a Black businessman from Berlin. He opened the following year as “Henry’s Colored Hotel.”
“It’s part of the overall construction of the shell of the current building, to renovate and make the building whole again and restore it to its former vibrance,” said Nancy Howard, board president for the Henry Hotel Foundation. “It’s part of this ongoing process we’ve been doing the last couple of years.”
Efforts to begin restoring the hotel began in 2023, when the Henry Hotel Foundation began seeking grant funds and community donations to turn the building into a museum and learning center. And in January, the foundation was awarded a $250,000 grant through the state’s African American Heritage Preservation Program to make exterior improvements.
Following Henry’s death in 1942, his widow continued to operate the hotel until it was sold in the 1950s. Its last owner, Pearl Bonner, operated the hotel until the 1990s. Upon her death in 2003, the property passed to her children. However, those with the Henry Hotel Foundation are now looking to restore the building and establish a museum and learning center that honors the life of Bonner and reflects on the history of African Americans in Ocean City.
“For Maryland to win the decade, we must transcend the status quo and continue our work to improve communities across the state,” Moore said in a news release last month announcing the grant awards.
“From creation of affordable housing and community space to improvements to streetscapes and infrastructure, vibrant, revitalized communities not only make Maryland a desirable home for all; they are the cornerstone for a better Maryland.”
Now, with an additional $300,000, Howard said the foundation can continue with its mission. She added that community members can also donate through the foundation’s website, henryhotel.org.
“We would love for people to give,” she said. “Once we get all this major
Other than the Henry Hotel work, the OCDC also received $100,000 from the DHCD’s Maryland Façade Improvement Program to continue the OCDC’s façade projects, which have exceeded 280 improvements to date. Additionally, the OCDC received $50,000 for its Green Building Initiatives Program.
By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor
(Jan. 3, 2025) Changes to a state insurance program could help local homeowners secure some sort of coverage for their mobile and manufactured homes.
In October, the Maryland Insurance Administration (MIA) held a public hearing, during which several homeowners, state and local representatives, insurance agents and advocacy groups provided input on the lack of available insurance coverage for manufactured and mobile homes in Worcester County and its coastal areas.
From that meeting, Del. Wayne Hartman highlighted issues pertaining to the Maryland Joint Insurance Association (MDJIA), which offers coverage to property owners who are
unable to obtain insurance elsewhere. While the association’s rules include a carveout for mobile and manufactured homes in Ocean City, it requires that structures be built in compliance with the Southern Standard Building Code, which no longer exists.
To that end, the MDJIA began updating its program rules. And in December, the MIA approved the association’s amendment.
“Last week, the MIA approved the amendment to MDJIA's program rules,” an update provided by the MIA reads. “The amendment to the MDJIA program rules strike the requirement that structures within the city limits of OC be built in substantial compliance with the Southern Standard Building Code to be eligible for coverage through the
In recent months, the Town of Ocean City and the Worcester County Commissioners have called on state representatives to help property owners struggling to secure insurance for their older mobile and manufactured homes. For some, the change has resulted in the loss of a home sale, as the buyer could not find a homeowners insurance policy, which is required by the mortgage company. For others, it has resulted in dropped coverage.
Since officials became aware of the issue earlier this year, the Maryland Insurance Administration has held a public hearing, during which several homeowners and insurance agents spoke of their struggles in finding available, or affordable, insurance options. Local officials, including
Ocean City’s mayor and city manager, also spoke on behalf of their residents.
“Ocean City homeowners, whether they have mobile/manufactured homes, or conventional stickbuilt homes, should be able to get affordable homeowners insurance,” City Manager Terry McGean said during the hearing. “Multinational companies should not deny coverage in Maryland based on events that occur in other states. Our location, our stronger codes, and lower claim history deserve better than that.”
Hartman also highlighted his efforts to work with the MDJIA in changing its program rules. For their part, MDJIA representatives noted that they provided dwelling policies to owners of mobile and manufactured homes.
“We’re not here to take business from the standard market,” MDJIA’s Mark Stiller said in October. “We’re here to provide coverage for those who can’t get it.”
• Botox, Dysport
(Jan. 3, 2025) The Maryland Department of Transportation State Highway Administration will continue long-term repairs to the Route 50 bridge over the Sinepuxent Bay. Beginning Friday Jan. 3, 2025, crews will work 24 hours a day on the machinery room areas of the draw span, necessitating roadway, sidewalk, and marine channel closures. Weather permitting, this work should be completed by March 17.
While this work is taking place, the two eastbound lanes and the eastbound sidewalk of the bridge will be closed to create a safe work zone. Two-way traffic will be maintained using the westbound lanes of the bridge.
Covington Machine and Welding will use concrete barriers, barrels, and cones to direct motorists through the work zone. Arrow panels and VMS boards placed prior to the work zone will alert motorists to the closures and changing traffic patterns.
The marine channel will be blocked with construction barges and closed to all vessels for the installation of new structural portions of the bridge. Vessels that do not require the drawspan to be opened may pass under adjacent spans. The State Highway Administration is coordinating this work with the U.S. Coast Guard and local officials to establish a work schedule that will minimize impacts to marine traffic.
By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor
(Jan. 3, 2025) Worcester Youth & Family Counseling Services will mark its 50th anniversary this year with a host of celebrations and fundraisers.
The series of occasions and events recognizing the service’s quarter-century milestone will culminate in a 50th Anniversary Celebration on Oct. 11, 2025 at Mariner’s Country Down.
“I’m really proud to be part of a 50year celebration,” said Executive Director Jennifer Leggour. “I think Worcester Youth & Family has had its ups and downs, but has endured the test of time.”
Worcester Youth & Family’s story began in 1975, when a group of students asked for counseling services that were not associated with any agency or school. From there, a counseling center was formed in cooperation with Shore Up! and Salisbury State College, now Salisbury University.
“That’s how Worcester Youth & Family started,” Leggour said, “to serve that need.”
Over time, the organization has reformed and expanded to include free counseling, mentoring and family support programs. Today, Worcester Youth & Family offers clinical services – regardless of an individual’s ability to pay – as well as youth mentoring, resource navigation and a Berlin Youth Club. Leggour said the agency helps numerous community members throughout the year.
“It has expanded over the years,” Leggour said. “However, the core of providing access to mental health and support remains the same.”
Leggour said Worcester Youth & Family will kick off its 50th celebration in January with a $50, 50/50 raffle, which will continue through much of the year. The drawing, she said, will take place at the Oct. 11 anniversary event, which officials are hoping will be attended by the organization’s founder, Barry Johansson.
Leggour added that the organization will also host 50 various events and fundraisers throughout 2025. Those events, she said, would include the agency’s Shine on the Shore Luau and its Every Children Needs fund.
Leggour said additional information will be posted on the Worcester Youth & Family website –gowoyo.org – and on social media pages as it becomes available.
For more information about Worcester Youth and Family’s events and programs, call 410-641-4598, or email shine@gowoyo.org.
“Worcester Youth and Family has been able to endure the test of time and stay true to its original goal of increasing access to mental health and social support services,” Leggour said. “This year is the time to thank our partners, supporters, and staff (both former and current) and celebrate this amazing milestone.”
By Brian Shane Staff Writer
(Jan. 3, 2025) Residents of campground communities may now use gazebos and sunshades legally in their parking spaces, after homeowners from the White Horse Park neighborhood successfully petitioned Worcester County leaders to allow them.
“I haven’t been in the park very long, but others have had these shade structure for years and years,” said White Horse Park resident Tracey Barnhardt. “That’s really all we’re asking for is something to sit under and enjoy the little bit of property we have in the heat.”
After the Dec. 17 public hearing on the matter, when Barnhardt spoke, the county commissioners voted to amend the county zoning code to allow for two accessory buildings on
a campground site, one of them being unenclosed.
Property owners will have to prove they have two parking spots before being granted a permit for an accessory sunshade. Temporary pop-up sunshades like ones seen at the beach or farmers market or like an umbrella over a table don’t need a permit.
“You got your shade,” said Commissioner President Ted Elder when the bill passed, drawing a small round of applause from the crowd.
Over the summer, when a White Horse Park resident asked the county’s permitting office for a gazebo on their property, they learned that only one “accessory structure” – zoning speak for a building like a shed, gazebo, or detached garage – is allowed per campsite by county code. Typically, that lone accessory at White
Horse Park is a shed.
County officials since found that many of the park’s homeowners were in violation of this code by having a sunshade taking up parking space. Commissioner Eric Fiori (District 3, Sinepuxent) introduced a bill in August to amend the code and lift the restriction.
Fiori said not only do gazebos provide shade from the sun, but having a more permanent version of a sunshade means residents, many of whom are seniors, won’t have to put them up and down on a daily basis, which is labor-intensive.
Originally, Fiori’s bill would have reduced the required parking from two spaces to one space on a campsite. The intent was to allow campsite owners to permit a gazebo or sunshade in what is now considered a required parking space.
However, county planning officials did not support reducing the amount of required parking because it could lead to street parking that might cause congestion and block emergency vehicles.
At 20 feet wide, campground roads are much narrower than typical county roads. This, Fiori said, creates a concern about whether fire trucks can drive there with additional cars on the street. The other problem was zero separation of gazebos between campsites being a fire hazard.
Based on overall feedback, the bill that passed now removes parking modifications, so two parking spaces would be mandatory per campsite. The bill also sets a minimum distance between buildings at the campsites from 0 feet to 3 feet for gazebo placement, according to Jennifer Keener, the county’s director of development review and permitting. Gazebos also are limited in size to 8-by-10 feet. In a campground subdivision, lots have to be 50-by-60 feet, making the usual parcel size about 3,000 square feet. However, White Horse Park was exempted from this provision when it was founded decades ago, so the lots there are smaller, about 2,000 to 2,500 square feet in size, Keener wrote in a June 21 memo to the county’s planning commission.
County zoning allows campers to have an RV, a park trailer, a manufactured home, or a modular home. Dwellings are limited to 750 square feet including additions. Open decks are allowed and do not contribute to the square footage calculations, Keener also wrote.
This code amendment could affect nearly 1,000 homeowners in northern Worcester County. There are 465 lots in White Horse Park and 525 at Assateague Pointe, another campsite subdivision, Keener said.
However, the county does not have a land survey for every single lot in the campgrounds, so if a land survey showed a site lacked its required two spots, a property owner would be required to install that second parking space before getting a sunshade permit, Keener added.
Mike Herbert, a property owner on Snowbird Court in White Horse Park, told the commissioners at the hearing that parking is not a problem because public overflow parking exists throughout the park.
“There’s no reason why anybody should ever have to park on the road. Down by the marina, you could park probably 75 cars in that big lot there,” he said.
The sunshade discussion among the commissioners also expanded
into a kind of review on the state of campground properties in Worcester.
Some commissioners were surprised to learn that campsite properties have no fire hydrants and rely on fire department tanker trucks. Others discussed how code violations, such as sheds straddling property lines, are rampant. Another conversation emerged about firewall protection in sheds from flammable liquids.
In response, Elder told the board that “this bill has absolutely nothing to do with that,” he said. “Zero.”
“There’s code violations everywhere in the county,” Elder said. “You can’t use violations when you’re setting code. Violations are not what determines the code. It is what it is. You’re not allowed to park that car on the street.”
The vote was split 4-3, with yes votes from Commissioners Joe Mitrecic,
Elder, Fiori, and Diana Purnell. Commissioners Chip Bertino, Caryn Abbott, and Jim Bunting voted no.
“Somebody who’s been living there for 30 years, when they bought the property, they knew what the conditions were,” Bunting said of White Horse Park. “And to change ‘em now, for no reason whatsoever, you might as well just throw your code out on everything. Because somebody might get cancer from the sun, that’s not an excuse to change the code for everything in Worcester County.”
On the heels of this discussion, the issue of sheds and fire safety will be reviewed next. A motion from Commissioner Mitrecic (District 7, Ocean City) passed unanimously for staff to look into requiring firewalls for sheds and proper storage of hazardous materials.
By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor
(Jan. 3, 2025) A man’s 3,100-plusmile run across America to raise awareness for online safety crossed the finish line in Ocean City last month.
On Dec. 20, Ben Tracy, an online safety advocate, concluded a 125-day marathon series across the country. Arriving at Ocean City’s Entry Park,
Tracy was joined by members of families who have lost children because of social media-related influences.
“It's such a different world that
these kids are growing up in,” he said in an interview last month. “I thought maybe there’s a different way to get the message out.”
Since 2018, Tracy has traveled across the country to hold speaking engagements about online safety and social media use. His talks, he said, draw on his own personal experience of losing a high-profile job in politics due to a social media post he created years earlier.
“I got fired on my first day for jokes I made online years ago …,” he said. “I thought people could benefit from this story … and so I started out with college athletic departments and then high schools and just really sharing that story, that this stuff can follow you into your adult life.”
Each year, Tracy speaks to more than 100,000 students, parents and educators, informing them of various social media dangers involving online predators, cyberbullying, drug sales, mental health and more.
However, his efforts don’t stop there. In August, Tracy launched the Tracy Trek, a 125-day run with one mission in mind – to keep kids safe online.
Beginning in San Francisco, Tracy ran a full marathon nearly every day,
following Route 50 for most of his journey to the East Coast. He also visited schools and organizations along his route and interviewed families whose children fell prey to social media dangers.
Tracy said his run through Maryland honors the lives of Grace McComas, who died by suicide at age 16 as a result of cyberbullying, and Matthew Minor, who died at age 12 from a social media choking challenge.
Minor’s parents, Todd and Mia Minor, were present on Dec. 20 to witness Tracy cross the finish line in Ocean City. Todd Minor noted the
race’s end also coincided with his son’s birthday.
“During our advocacy, we got connected with Ben,” he said. “And then later on, he said he’s going to do the run across America, and that he was dedicating his run in Maryland to Matthew, who passed away from a choking challenge … This has brought us together. And I just admire everything he’s doing. Also, it’s grabbed attention.”
With Tracy’s journey now complete, he said he will continue advocating for safe social media use. He said those interested can learn more about his journey at TracyTrek.com.
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, Primantistyled sandwiches, pierogis, egg-rolls and homemade crab dip. Dry Dock also features a full menu with soups, salads, kick starters, pierogis and craft pizza.
COINS PUB & RESTAURANT
28th Street Plaza and Coastal Highway, Ocean City 410-289-3100, www.coinspuboc.com
$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar
American style local restaurant serving seafood, steaks and chefs specials. Check out the off season weekday specials. Early bird; daily, 2-5:30 p.m. Sunday’s early bird specials, all day and all night. Happy Hour; daily, 2-5:30 p.m. with food and drink specials. Closed Monday. Open Tuesday through Friday, 2 p.m. and Saturday through Sunday, 11:30 a.m. Dine-in, carry out.
CORAL REEF RESTAURANT & BAR
17th Street in the Holiday Inn & Suites, Ocean City 410-289-2612, coralreefrestaurant.com
$$ | 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 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
BLU CRABHOUSE & RAW BAR, JAY’S CAFÉ & ICE CREAM, THE EMBERS
2305 Philadelphia Ave., Ocean City, 410-2893322, district24oc.com
Come visit all your culinary options at this block of fun, including the landmark Embers Restaurant with a new, innovative vision as well as Blu where fresh seafood is king. Be sure to stop in Jay’s for a tasty treat as well as an ocean of caffeinated offerings. There’s fun activities for kids of all ages here as well with a miniature golf course and an arcade.
PICKLES PUB
706 Philadelphia Ave., Ocean City, 410-2894891, picklesoc.com
$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar
Easy to find with plenty of free parking, serving lunch, dinner and entire diverse menu until 1 a.m. Also nightly entertainment year-round and a great place to watch all the sports on an ocean of televisions including a giant high-def screen. Also four pool tables on site. Lunch and dinner and entire menu until 1 a.m. Open all year from 11:30 a.m.-2 a.m., seven days a week.
PIT & PUB
2706 Philadelphia Ave. and 12701 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, pitandpub.com
Ocean City’s home of Pulled Pork and the finest barbecue, the legendary 28th Street Pit & Pub and the Northside Pit & Pub are known for serving up delicious smokehouse specialties. Grab a brew and enjoy the live sports action on one of the big screen TVs. Happy hour daily. Family-friendly atmospheres at both locations. Weekend entertainment.
32 PALM
32nd Street in The Hilton, Ocean City 410289-2525, 32palm.com
$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar
Elevated cuisine, locally sourced ingredients and allocated spirits are prominently featured in our lounge and dining room. Open year-round for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Routinely updated menus with the highest quality local ingredients for fresh seafood any time of the year!
THE BONFIRE
71st Street, Coastal Hwy., Ocean City, 410524-7171, thebonfirerestaurant.com
Celebrating 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
$$ | Full bar
Winner of the Maryland People's choice award, Marlin Moon continues to offer its famous, locally loved dishes and famous happy hour. Enjoy creatively crafted cocktails, fresh selections from the raw bar and luscious desserts. Happy Hour, every day, 3-6 p.m., featuring drink specials. Breakfast, 7:30-11:30 a.m.; Lite Fare, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.; Dinner, 4-10 p.m.; and Bar open noon to 11 p.m.
SEACRETS
49th Street, Ocean City 410-524-4900, www.seacrets.com
$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar
Open Sunday through Friday at 11 a.m., 10 a.m. on Saturdays, close at 2 a.m. Enjoy a tropical atmosphere and dine under the palms in our outdoor, kid friendly dining area or try a Seacrets Beachin' Cocktails in the Bay with live music every day open to close. The club is open every night in the summer. Try our famous jerk chicken with homemade honey mustard sauce, Pushcart Trio, a true Jamaican dish or a hearty wrap, sandwich or delicious burger. We have it all at Seacrets.
2000, albertinosoc.com
$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar
Featuring the best brick oven pizza, always handmade with fresh ingredients, Italian-American mouth-watering seafood specialties, traditional Italian pasta dishes, apps, soups and salads. Full bar with large local craft beer selection.
CAROUSEL OCEANFRONT HOTEL & CONDOS 118th Street, Ocean City 800-641-0011, www.carouselhotel.com
The Carousel Oceanfront Resort offers a family friendly casual dining experience with their Reef 118 restaurant. Offering dinner Thursday through Sunday from 5-9 p.m., featuring AYCE Crab legs for $54.95. Serving breakfast on Saturdays and Sundays from 8 a.m. to noon. Their new "Go for 2" happy hour features $10 appetizers as a buy one get one free. $1 oysters during all open hours. They are now taking reservations for the Thanksgiving buffet and also offering Thanksgiving take-out meals for $189.99 for 6 people and are featuring the Funsters for their NYE entertainment.
THE CRAB BAG
13005 Coastal Highway Ocean City, 410-2503337, thecrabbag.com
$$ | 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, 410250-4900, crabcakefactoryusa.com
Full-service family restaurant, carry-out and sports bar. Outside seating available. Menu selections include prime rib, chicken Chesapeake, steamed shrimp, beer battered fish, real Philly cheesesteaks, burgers, and a kids menu. Casual attire, full liquor bar, no reservations. Open Year Round. World-Famous Crabcakes are served all day starting at 8 a.m. and can be packed on ice for you while you are eating breakfast.
TAILCHASERS RESTAURANT & DOCK BAR
12203 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, 443-6647075, tailchasersoc.com
$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar
A coastal casual farm to table restaurant with a fun dockside family friendly atmosphere. Menu changes with the seasons and cocktails are handcrafted with care. Bring the whole family for lunch or dinner along the canal. Kids playground available to keep the littles entertained.
VISTA ROOFTOP RESTAURANT
13801 Coastal Highway, located in the Fenwick Inn, Ocean City, 410-390-7905, vistarooftopoc.com
$$-$$$ | Full bar
Enjoy a wonderful meal overlooking the ocean and bay. Some of the most unique views in Ocean City. Steaks, seafood, burgers, soups, salads and lite fare. Happy hour, 3-6 p.m. New this year is a boozy brunch Saturdays and Sundays, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Live music.
CRABCAKE FACTORY BAYSIDE
Route 54, Fenwick Island, DE, 302-988-5000, CCFBayside.com
Same award-winning crab cakes and bloody marys. Enjoy waterfront dining. Full-service family restaurant, carry-out & sports bar. Outside seating available. Open daily year-round. Menu selections include crab cakes, prime rib, Phillystyle cheese steaks, various seafood, kids menu plus full breakfast menu.
DIRTY HARRY’S
100 Coastal Highway, Fenwick Island, DE, 302-539-3020, Beach-net.com/dirtyharrys
$ | Kids’ Menu | Full bar
Don’t let the name fool you, the food is home cooking at its finest. Owned and operated by Ginny Swann and family for 19 years. Popular for the breakfast but getting rave reviews for lunch and dinner, too.
NANTUCKETS
Route 1, Fenwick Island, DE, 302-539-2607, nantucketsrestaurant.com
Serving the beach great food and spirits for over 30 years. David and Janet Twining will wow you with the finest foods and drinks in the area. You’ll be pleasantly surprised by what one of the coast’s finest dining establishments has in store for guests. Everything here is a house specialty.
TWINING’S LOBSTER SHANTY Rte. 54, Fenwick Island, Del., 302-436-2305, twiningshanty.com
Reservations | Kids’ Menu
“A funky little place at the edge of town.” Classic New England fare, lobsters, steaks and burgers. Bird watching and magical sunsets await. Open for lunch and dinner. Reservations are suggested.
CLUBHOUSE BAR AND GRILLE
100 Clubhouse Drive, Ocean Pines 410-6417222, Oceanpinesgolf.org/dining
$$ | Full bar
Indoor and outdoor dining with sweeping views of the 18th green and pond, the Clubhouse Bar and Grille serves freshly prepared breakfast and lunch items with a full bar menu. Closed through Thursday, Feb 6. Re-opening Friday, Feb. 7
OCEAN PINES YACHT CLUB
1 Mumford Landing Road, Ocean Pines 410641-7222, www.OPYachtclub.com
$$-$$$ | Full bar
The Ocean Pines Yacht Club offers casual coastal cuisine for lunch and dinner in a beautiful bayfront setting. Fresh seafood, signature drinks, live music and more. Closed through Thursday, Feb 13. Re-opening Friday, Feb 14
12736 Ocean Gateway, Route 50 east, West Ocean City, 410-213-1804, breakfastcafeofoc.com
All the traditional breakfast options available here in a casual, diner setting. Open daily closing at 2 p.m.
CANTINA LOS AGAVES MEXICAN GRILL
12720 Ocean Gateway #7, West Ocean City 410-390-3914, cantinalosagaves.com
$$ | Kid’s menu | Full bar
Ocean City’s newest Mexican restaurant and bar. Offering delicious and generous portions of the tastiest traditional and not so traditional #MexicanEats you have ever tried. Open daily at 11 a.m. Serving food until 9 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday. Bar open til 11 p.m.
DUMSER’S DAIRYLAND
West Ocean City: Route 50 east; Boardwalk locations: 501 S. Philadelphia Ave., 49th Street, 123rd Street, Ocean City, dumsersdairyland.com
This classic ice cream shop is a tradition for many families. Voted O.C.’s “Best Ice Cream” for the past 20 years, Dumser’s is celebrating decades of serving the shore, and the ‘40sstyle décor takes you back in time. With locations throughout Ocean City, treating your tastebuds to this signature homemade ice cream is easy. The 49th and 124th streets locations offer vast lunch and dinner menus (breakfast too at 124th) in addition to a wide variety of ice cream treats.
GREENE
Route 611, West Ocean City, 410-213-1500 Proudly serving West Ocean City since January 1999, The Greene Turtle features a beautiful 80-seat dining room, large bar area with 54 TVs with stereo sound and game room with pool tables. With an exciting menu, The Greene Turtle is sure to please with delicious sizzling steaks, jumbo lump crab cakes, raw bar, homemade salads and more. Live entertainment, Keno, Turtle apparel, kids menu, carry-out.
HARBORSIDE BAR & GRILL
12841 Harbor Rd., West Ocean City, 410-2131846, weocharborside.com
$$ | 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. MondayWednesday: 11 a.m.-9 p.m.; Thursday: 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Friday-Saturday: 11 a.m.-11 p.m.; Sunday: 11 a.m.-9 p.m.
By Tara Fischer Staff Writer
(Jan. 3, 2025) Ocean City Elementary School’s multilingual learner program is proving successful, as teachers use what’s known as an “asset-based approach” to teach students, school officials told the board of education on Dec. 17.
Ocean City Elementary School representatives outlined for the board the processes employed to propel students who are using and learning multiple languages towards academic progress and language development.
The proof of the program’s success is evidenced by progress in academic content on the school system’s our language proficiency assessment, English teacher Alicia Wallace said.
In the Maryland State Department of Education’s recently released annual report card, OCES was the only Worcester
County school to earn a rating of five out of five stars on academic growth, academic achievement and graduation rate.
In the assessment of a school’s progress in achieving language proficiency, OCES scored 9 out of 10 points, Wallace said, “This means that 90% of our students achieved English proficiency growth,” she told the board.
The asset-based approach in teaching focuses on a student’s strengths to help that student learn more quickly.
A student whose strongest asset is public speaking rather than writing could present a report orally instead of having to write it.
“Asset-based teaching seeks to unlock students’ potential by focusing on their talents,” the Association of College & Research Libraries reported in 2018. “Also known as strengths-based teaching, this approach contrasts with the more com-
& create your dream space. Enjoy access to parks, pools, & recreational facilities. Don’t miss out on this gem in a prime location!
NORTH OC 2BR, 2BA CONDO with BOAT SLIP
HOUSE
JAN. 4 • 2-4PM & SUN., JAN. 5 • 10AM-NOON
HOUSE SAT., JAN. 4 • 10AM-1PM & SUN., JAN. 5 • 2-4PM
Close to shops, restaurants & entertainment. Updated kitchen & BAs SS appliances & stylish fixtures. Open Floor concept large slider overlooks deck & view of canal. Outside space expands to community deck. Don't miss out. Whether looking to Own a Retreat or Investment Property (this unit has strong rental following) or year-round living, this unit has it all.
$429,900 MDWO02023038
mon deficit-based style of teaching which highlights students’ inadequacies.”
This approach has yielded stellar results, Wallace said.
One component of instruction is what Wallace calls Timer Talk Tuesday.
“We utilize the technology that we have, which is going to mimic the testing environment ... and we give our kids on-demand tasks that simulate either content area classroom activities or the things that they’re going to see on the test,” Wallace said.
This improves oral expression and fluency through content themes and vo-
2BR, 2 BA BEACH RETREAT
stores & the beach! Family getaway or promising investment opportunity. Community recently replaced roof 2-3 years ago. Ongoing assessment to upgrade siding, windows & replenish community reserves. Buyers must honor any remaining rentals for season.
cabulary, enforces productive language skills and “rigorous language tasks” via repetition, and exposes technology to practice testing scenarios, she said.
The instructors also employ what they call an Expanding Expressions Tool Kit for the younger students. This strategy employs visual aids and objects that may be related by the student to aspects of vocabulary being taught.
That this approach is working is further evidenced in the US News and World Report’s November ranking of OCES as the second-best public elementary school in Maryland.
lighting, Blinds & Living room Furniture. Full-service kitchen opens to living area. Enjoy Pool plus 2 parking spaces under building. Close to restaurants, beach & boardwalk activities.
ARIES – Mar 21/Apr 20
You are likely to question information you receive this week, Aries. Investigate things further, but remain receptive to what others are saying.
TAURUS – Apr 21/May 21
Taurus, it is time to solidify plans and any grand schemes you may have; otherwise, you may not know which path to take. For now, start outlining your ideas.
GEMINI – May 22/Jun 21
Practice your communication skills, Gemini, as you are likely to need them this week. You may need to resolve a sticky situation and serve as a voice of reason.
CANCER – Jun 22/Jul 22
Cancer, this week you may be looking to clean house, so to say. You are tossing away old beliefs and habits and are ready to embrace something new. It might be an exciting time.
LEO – Jul 23/Aug 23
Leo, everything that you are going through right now is part of a cycle that has a beginning and an end. If you wait it out, you will find that patience pays off.
VIRGO – Aug 24/Sept 22
Virgo, maintain open lines of communication. Some may offer advice, while others may seek it. Be receptive to the former and do your best to accommodate the latter.
LIBRA – Sept 23/Oct 23
Do what you can to help others in need, Libra. Offer your services and insight, and be prepared to help in other ways as well.
SCORPIO – Oct 24/Nov 22
Scorpio, you are giving off an energy lately that others might be attracted to. Don’t be surprised if your fan club increases in the next few days. Enjoy the attention.
SAGITTARIUS – Nov 23/Dec 21
Communication from a former friend or an old roommate may catch you by surprise this week, Sagittarius. Embrace this opportunity to r econnect.
CAPRICORN – Dec 22/Jan 20
Capricorn, you’ve been waiting patiently to say something and looking for an opportunity to share your input. You might need to interrupt if you feel it is important enough.
AQUARIUS – Jan 21/Feb 18
Your mind feels as if it’s going in a million different directions, Aquarius. One way to alleviate distractions is to direct your energy to an assortment of small projects.
PISCES – Feb 19/Mar 20
Pisces, sometimes it seems like what you are saying is going in one ear and out the other. Don’t let your frustration get the best of you. Keep trying to be heard.
BERLIN- BACK ON THE MARKET Freshly painted 4 Bedroom, 3 full Bath low maintenance townhouse with attached 1-car garage. 1st floor BR w/bath could be a home office or den. A fenced in private yard. Community features outdoor pool, clubhouse, fitness center, and more. Close to historic downtown Berlin and short drive to Ocean City & Assateague beaches. Move in ready! Seller has included an additional concession of 4% of sale price towards buyers' closing costs and pre-paids. Back on the market as the buyer's financing fell through.
Cottonwood Court
Showcase your new home on this beautiful, wooded corner lot
Pines! Just a short ride to parks,
Only a few miles to the Ocean City beaches, boardwalk, entertainment and amusements, Assateague Island
Furniture • Exercise Equipment
Outside Play Sets • WiFi Security Cameras • TV Mounting
FOR FASTEST SERVICE: We need your address & contact information and exact brand name, model #’s and quantity. Email us a copy of your receipt/pictures.
Sasha@AtlanticAssemblers.com 302-569-9732
COINS PUB
410-289-3100 28th Street Plaza On Coastal Hwy. Friday, January 17: Schizophrenic Boogiemen Saturday, January 18: Monkee Paw
CRABCAKE FACTORY BAYSIDE
302-988-5000
37314 Lighthouse Rd., Rte. 54, Selbyville, DE Friday, January 3: Rick & Regina Wednesday, January 8: Full Circle Duo
CRAWL STREET TAVERN
443-373-2756
Wicomico St., Downtown O.C. Friday, January 3: John Cardo Saturday, January 4: The Harbor Boys
GREENE TURTLE WEST
410-213-1500
Route 611, West OC Saturday, January 4: TBA
HARBORSIDE
410-213-1846
South Harbor Rd., West End O.C.
Fridays: DJ Billy T
Harborside:
Saturday, January 4:
Cecilia’s Fall & DJ Bigler Sundays: Opposite Directions Thursdays: Dust N Bones Duo
PICKLES PUB 410-289-4891
8th St. & Philadelphia Ave. Fridays: Beats By DeoGee Saturday, January 4: The Dunehounds Sundays: Beats By Styler Mondays: Karaoke w/ Wood Tuesdays: Beats By Wax Wednesdays: Beats By Styler Thursdays: Beats By DeoGee
SEACRETS 410-524-4900
49th St. & Coastal Hwy. Friday, January 3: Blake Haley Saturday, January 4: The Way Outs Duo Thursday, January 9: Full Circle Duo
Submit calendar items to: editor@oceancitytoday.net. Submission deadline is 5 p.m. Monday, the week of publication. Local submissions have priority. Area event listings are subject to space availability.
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. 410-524-1818, www.worcesterlibrary.org
DIABETES SUPPORT GROUP
Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 1:30-2:30 p.m. Group provides discussion and education on the topic of diabetes. Patti Yocubik, 410-641-4217, pyocubik@atlanticgeneral.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
SATURDAY WRITERS
Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 10 a.m. Novice and established writers gather to share their writing projects. Structure includes critiques and appreciation, market leads and writing exercises. Drop ins welcome. 410-641-0650
GLOBAL GOODIES
Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 10 a.m. Taste test some snacks from around the world and find out if all snacks are created equal. All food provided. For ages 6-18 years. 410-208-4014, www.worcesterlibrary.org
FARMERS & ARTISANS MARKET
Saturdays - White Horse Park, 239 Ocean Parkway, 9 a.m. to noon. Shop for everything from fresh local produce to unique handmade artisan goods. Open to the public.
BERLIN FLEA MARKET
Sundays - Uptown Emporium Parking Lot, 13 S. Main St., Berlin, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Vendor opportunities available. Julie, 410-726-9012; Bill, 410-629-9656
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
LITTLE LEARNERS: FISH PRINTS & AQUARIUM PROGRAM
Ocean City Life-Saving Museum, 813 S. Atlantic Ave., 10-11 a.m. Learn about the fish that live in the museum and create a fish print. Geared to ages 0-5 years. Preregistration requested: https://www.ocmuseum.org, Facebook. Free parking in the inlet parking lot. 410-289-4991
STORY TIME: HIBERNATION
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
ESL CONVERSATION CLUB
Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 2 p.m. Come join other non-native English speakers for casual conversational practice and a short lesson prepared by an ESL instuctor. 410-524-1818, www.worcesterlibrary.org
GREAT BOOKS DISCUSSION
Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 2:30 p.m. Currently the group is reading from Book 6 of the Great Conversations Anthology. The focus will be on “The Man That Corrupted Hadleyburg” by Mark Twain. 410208-4014, www.worcesterlibrary.org
CAREGIVER SUPPORT GROUP
John H. “Jack” Burbage, Jr. Regional Cancer Care Center, 9707 Healthway Drive, Berlin, 3-4 p.m. For families, partners and other caregivers who share similar challenges and rewards of providing care for adults who have any type of serious illness. nfry@atlanticgeneral.org, 410-641-2626
RESEARCHERS MEET UP
Worcester County Library - Snow Hill Branch, 307 N. Washington St., 3 p.m. Discuss local history, get tips from the local history librarian and work on the
citizen research projects. 410-632-3495, www.worcesterlibrary.org
WARHAMMER
Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 4 p.m. Use the library’s armies or bring your own. Tutorials and demos will be available, so novice and veteran players alike are welcome. For ages 12-18 years. 410-6410650, www.worcesterlibrary.org
LEGO MASTERS CHALLENGE
Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 4:30 p.m. Join in for a Lego challenge event. All materials provided. For ages 6-11 years. 410-208-4014, www.worcesterlibrary.org
T.O.P.S. OF BERLIN - GROUP #169
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, 410641-0157
HIDDEN HEALING
Worcester County Library - Snow Hill Branch, 307 N. Washington St., 5:30 p.m. Discuss the therapeutic properties of common spices and herbs such as Black Pepper, Thyme and Sage. Attendees will be given several recipes. Registration required: 410-632-3495.
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. Mary, 410-629-9383 or Carol, 302-2427062.
OVEREATER’S ANONYMOUS
Mondays - Worcester County LibraryOcean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 7-8 p.m. No dues or fees. 410-459-9100
STORY TIME
Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 10:30 a.m. Story time featuring seasonal themes designed to support early literacy skills with stories, songs and fingerplays. Geared to ages 0-5 years. 410-641-0650, www.worcesterlibrary.org
STORY TIME: SNOW DAY
Worcester County Library - Pocomoke Branch, 301 Market St., 10:30 a.m. Crafts, songs and stories. For ages 0-5 years. 410-957-0878, www.worcesterli-
brary.org
BABY TIME
Worcester County Library - Snow Hill Branch, 307 N. Washington St., 10:30 a.m. Songs, rhymes and stories. Stay after to socialize with other families. For ages 0-2 years. 410-632-3495, www.worcesterlibrary.org
OC KNITTING GROUP
Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 10:30 a.m. Do you love to knit or crochet? Bring whatever project you happen to be working on. 410-524-1818, www.worcesterlibrary.org
MASTER GARDENERS PLANT CLINIC
Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 11 a.m. Master Gardener Ginny Rosenkrantz talks about all things plants. Bring questions and feel free to show your plants as well. 410-208-4014, www.worcesterlibrary.org
NAILED IT! NEW YEARS CAKE POPS
Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 4 p.m. Drop in to test out your culinary skills. For ages 6-18 years. 410-208-4014, www.worcesterlibrary.org
MILLENNIAL-ISH: NEW YEAR, NEW ME!
Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 5:30 p.m. Make new friends also in their 20s40s, brainstorm resolutions and make vision boards. 410-524-1818, www.worcesterlibrary.org
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
Crossword answers from page 26
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.
BARIATRIC SUPPORT GROUP
Takes place the first and second
Wednesdays of each month. For nonsurgical patients. Atlantic General Bariatric Center, 410-641-9568
GRACE PARKER BREAKFAST
First Presbyterian Church of Ocean City, 1301 Philadelphia Ave., 7-11 a.m. Eggs, pancakes, sausage, grits and more. Cost is $10 to carryout and $12 to eat in.
BABY TIME
Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 10 a.m. Songs, stories and giggles. For ages 0-2 years. 410-208-4014, www.worcesterlibrary.org
POKENO
Snow Hill 50plus Center, 4767 Snow Hill Road, 11 a.m. Play Pokeno at the Snow Hill 50plus Center. 410-632-3495, www.worcesterlibrary.org
MERRY MAKERS: ZIPPERED POUCHES
Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 11 a.m.
Merry Makers will use paper napkins and a few crafting materials to make plain canvas zipper pouches. All materials provided. Registration required: 410208-4014. www.worcesterlibrary.org
PUZZLE SWAP
Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 1-5 p.m. Bring gently used puzzles and leave with newto-you puzzles. Don’t have a puzzle but still want one? That’s OK too. Puzzle must be their original boxes. 410-641-
0650, www.worcesterlibrary.org
SCANDAL IN SCULPTURE
Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 2 p.m. Learn about the uproar that ensued in Boston in the 1890s over a sculpture that was gifted to the Boston Public Library. 410641-0650, www.worcesterlibrary.org
STROKE SUPPORT GROUP
Atlantic General Neurology at the Atlantic Health Center, 9714 Healthway Drive, Berlin, 3:15-4 p.m. For stroke survivors, family and friends. 410-6414765, bglime@atlanticgeneral.org
TABLETOP ROLE PLAYING GAME
Worcester County Library - Snow Hill Branch, 307 N. Washington St., 5 p.m. Come play a selected role-playing game for adults and teens. Registration required: 410-632-3495. www.worcesterlibrary.org
PAINT & SIP
Ocean Pines Community Center, 235 Ocean Parkway, 6-8 p.m. Cost is $27 and includes wine and cheese. Must be at least 18 years old to participate. Register: 410-641-7052.
KIWANIS CLUB MEETING
Wednesdays - Ocean Pines Community Center, 239 Ocean Parkway, 8 a.m. Doors open at 7:30 a.m. Third Wednesday meetings are offsite and information can be found on the website and Facebook. www.kiwanisofopoc.org.
2025 MAYOR’S PRAYER BREAKFASTGUEST SPEAKER BILLY BLANKS Ashore Resort & Beach Club, 10100 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, 8:45-10 a.m. VIP check-in from 7:15-7:30 p.m. Standard check-in and breakfast, 8:15-8:40 a.m. Key note speaker is Billy Blanks. Tickets cost $35 standard ticket or $100 VIP tickets. https://www.ococean.com/events, 443-664-3052
STORY TIME: IF YOU GIVE A MOUSE A COOKIE
Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 10:30 a.m. Songs, stories and crafts. For ages 0-5 years. 410-208-4014, www.worcesterlibrary.org
PLAY TIME
Worcester County Library - Snow Hill Branch, 307 N. Washington St., 10:30 a.m. A variety of activities and toys. Play and socialize with other families. For ages 0-5 years. 410-632-3495, www.worcesterlibrary.org
SIP N S’MORES
Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 4 p.m. Listen to a cozy story while you sip hot chocolate and make a super sized marshmallow treat. For ages 6-11 years. 410-641-0650, www.worcesterlibrary.org
Small Engine Mechanic Year-round. Competitive Wages. 443-754-1047
Pool -
General Maintenance.
Outdoor work, lifting heavy objects. Mechanical, basic pool pump & motors, CPO a plus / not required. Able to pass CPO test.
Summer includes weekends & long hours; working alone or with others 410-289-4902 ask for Suzanne.
YR LONG TERM RENTAL 3BR, 2.5BA, Townhome Avail. Immed. New Construction. Town of Berlin.
$2,500/mo. + utils. (1 year)
$2,400/mo. + utils. (2 year) 410-430-2118
Seeking YR & Seasonal Rentals! Call Howard Martin Realty 410-352-5555. COMMERCIAL SPACE AVAILABLE SOUTH GATE OCEAN PINES Call for details 410-430-3758
2 Office/Retail Spaces available in West Ocean City. Approximately 1656 sq. ft. and 1728 sq. ft. Call 443-497-4200 Industrial Space Yard and Storage Shed. Approx. 10x25+/Route 90/Bishopville. Call 443-497-4200.
Commercial Space for Lease.
2-3 Units available, can be divided or joined. Approx. 800-1000 sq. ft. ea.
How far must I go?
Perhaps to follow a star, Then a humble barn. Forgiveness to see, True Love to behold!
2 Bedroom / 1 Bath Laundry on premises. 877-289-1616 www.bbapartmentsoc.com
MISC. FOR SALE
Get Boost Infinite! Unlimited Talk, Text and Data For Just $25/mo! The Power Of 3 5G Networks, One Low Price! Call Today and Get The Latest iPhone Every Year On Us! 855-977-5719
Get DISH Satellite TV + Internet! Free Install, Free HDDVR Upgrade, 80,000 OnDemand Movies, Plus Limited Time Up To $600 In Gift Cards. Call Today! 1-855-4076870
FOR SALE
Prepare for power outages today with a GENERAC Home Standby Generator. Act now to receive a FREE 5-Year warranty with qualifying purchase. Call 1-855-993-0969 today to schedule a free quote. It’s not just a generator. It’s a power move.
VEHICLES WANTED
DONATE YOUR CAR/TRUCK/ RV - Lutheran Mission Society of MD Compassion Place ministries help local families with food, clothing, counseling. Tax deductible. MVA licensed #W1044. 410-228-8437 www.CompassionPlace.org
REAL ESTATE We Buy Houses for Cash AS IS! No repairs. No fuss. Any condition. Easy three step process: Call, get cash offer and get paid. Get your fair cash offer today by calling Liz Buys Houses: 1-866-541-7929 SERVICES DENTAL INSURANCE from Physicians Mutual Insurance Company. Coverage for 350 plus procedures. Real dental insurance - NOT just a discount plan. Do not wait! Call now! Get your FREE Dental Information Kit with all the details! 1-855-337-5228 www.dental50plus.com/ MDDC #6258
COHN,
1099 WINTERSON ROAD, SUITE 301
LINTHICUM HEIGHTS, MARYLAND 21090
www.cgd-law.com/sales
OF IMPROVED REAL PROPERTY
27 ISLAND EDGE DRIVE, UNIT 27C
OCEAN CITY, MD 21842
By authority contained in a Deed of Trust dated November 30, 2005 and recorded in Liber 4598, Folio 750, among the Land Records of Worcester County, Maryland, with an original principal balance of $615,200.00, and an interest rate of 6.500%, 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
January 6, 2025 AT 11:00AM
ALL THAT FEE SIMPLE property more fully described in the aforesaid Deed of Trust. The property being sold is a condominium unit and all common elements appurtenant thereto.
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 $42,000.00 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. 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
OCD-12/19/3t
BWW Law Group, LLC 6003 Executive Blvd., Suite 101 Rockville, MD 20852 (301) 961-6555
102 HINGHAM LANE, UNIT #27
OCEAN PINES A/R/T/A BERLIN, MD 21811
Under a power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust dated January 16, 2004, recorded in Liber 4023, Folio 42 among the Land Records of Worcester County, MD, with an original principal balance of $308,360.00, 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
JANUARY 7, 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 described as Unit Number 27, of "The Townes at Innerlinks a Condominium" 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 $25,000 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. Pur-
chaser 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 entitled to any surplus proceeds resulting from said resale even if such surplus results from improvements to the property by said defaulted purchaser. Sub. Trustees will convey either marketable or insurable title. If they cannot deliver one or the other, or if ratification of the sale is denied by the Circuit Court for any reason, the Purchaser's sole remedy, at law or equity, is return of the deposit without interest. (Matter No. 358190-2) Howard N. Bierman, Carrie M. Ward, et. al., Substitute Trustees
P04-25 – Canoe, Kayak, and StandUp Paddleboard Concessions
The Mayor & City Council of Ocean City is seeking Proposals from qualified and experienced Vendors to provide for the C Canoe, Kayak, and Stand-Up Paddleboard Concessions and for said work to conform with the Proposal Documents.
RFP Documents for the C Canoe, Kayak, and Stand-Up Paddleboard Concessions may be obtained from the Town’s Procurement Department by either e-mailing the Procurement Manager, Matt Perry, at mperry@oceancitymd.gov or Dawn Webb at dwebb@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 RFP’s. The Town is not responsible for the content of any Proposal Document received through any thirdparty service. Vendors are responsible for ensuring the completeness and accuracy of their Completed Proposal Documents.
A pre-proposal meeting will be conducted on T THURSDAY, DECEMBER 5TH, 2024 AT 2:00PM AT NORTHSIDE PARK, WEST CONFERENCE ROOM, 200 125TH STREET, OCEAN CITY, MARYLAND, 21842. The last day for questions will be on T THURSDAY, DECEMBER 19TH, 2024, AT 3:00PM. Addendum will be posted by close of business on F FRIDAY, DECEMBER 20TH, 2024
Sealed RFP Documents are due no later than T TUESDAY, JANUARY 7TH, 2025, BY 3:00 PM RFP submissions will be opened, read aloud, and then remanded back to staff for further review at the P PROCUREMENT OFFICE CONFERENCE ROOM, ON THURSDAY, JANUARY 9TH, 2025, AT 10:00AM. RFP’s are to be submitted to the Procurement Office located at 214 65th Street, Ocean City, MD 21842, and the name of the Solicitation (CCanoe, Kayak, and Stand-Up Paddleboard Concessions) must be noted on the outside of the package.
Late RFP Documents will not be accepted.
Minority Vendors are encouraged to compete for the Award of the Solicitation.
OCD-12/5/5t
Mayor & City Council Ocean City, Maryland
P05-25 – Landscape Maintenance Services – Public Works South Tram Facility and Bayside Park
The Mayor & City Council of Ocean City is seeking Proposals from qualified and experienced Vendors to provide for the L Landscape Maintenance Services – Public Works South Tram Facility and Bayside Park and for said work to conform with the Proposal Documents BID Documents for the L Landscape Maintenance Services – Public Works South Tram Facility and Bayside Park may be obtained from the Town’s Procurement Department by either e-mailing the Procurement Manager, Matt Perry, at
mperry@oceancitymd.gov or Dawn Webb at dwebb@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.
The last day for questions will be on T TUESDAY, JANUARY 7TH, 2025, AT 3:00PM. Addendum will be posted by close of business on THURSDAY, JANUARY 9TH, 2025
Sealed BID Documents are due no later than T THURSDAY, JANUARY 16TH, 2025, BY 3:00 PM BID submissions will be opened, read aloud, and then remanded back to staff for further review at the P PROCUREMENT OFFICE CONFERENCE ROOM, ON FRIDAY, JANUARY 17TH, 2025, AT 10:00AM. BID’s are to be submitted to the Procurement Office located at 214 65th Street, Ocean City, MD 21842, and the name of the Solicitation (LLandscape Maintenance Services – Public Works South Tram Facility and Bayside Park) 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-12/12/5t
Mayor & City Council Ocean City, Maryland
P06-25 – Northside Park Ceiling Grid Replacement
The Mayor & City Council of Ocean City is seeking Proposals from qualified and experienced Vendors to provide for the N Northside Park Ceiling Grid Replacement and for said work to conform with the Proposal Documents.
BID Documents for the N Northside Park Ceiling Grid Replacement may be obtained from the Town’s Procurement Department by either emailing the Procurement Manager, Matt Perry, at mperry@oceancitymd.gov or Dawn Webb at dwebb@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 Com-
pleted Proposal Documents. A pre-proposal meeting will be conducted on T TUESDAY, JANUARY 7TH, 2025 AT 10:00AM AT NORTHSIDE PARK, WEST CONFERENCE ROOM, 200 125TH STREET, OCEAN CITY, MARYLAND 21842. ATTENDANCE IS MANDATORY PER FORM OF BID. The last day for questions will be on T THURSDAY, JANUARY 16TH, 2025, AT 3:00PM Addendum will be posted by close of business on M MONDAY, JANUARY 20TH, 2025
Sealed BID Documents are due no later than T THURSDAY, JANUARY 23RD, 2025, BY 3:00 PM BID submissions will be opened, read aloud, and then remanded back to staff for further review at the P PROCUREMENT OFFICE CONFERENCE ROOM, ON FRIDAY, JANUARY 24TH, 2025, AT 10:00AM. BID’s are to be submitted to the Procurement Office located at 214 65th Street, Ocean City, MD 21842, and the name of the Solicitation (NNorthside Park Ceiling Grid Replacement) must be noted on the outside of the package.
Late BID Documents will not be accepted.
Minority Vendors are encouraged to compete for the Award of the Solicitation.
OCD-12/12/6t
Lewis Road Gravity Sewer System and Pump Station
Worcester County is seeking Bids from qualified Vendors to contract for the construction of the Lewis Road Gravity Sewer and Pump Station 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, Nicholas Rice, at nrice@co.worcester.md.us or by calling 410-632-1194 during normal business hours, or via the County’s Bids page on the County’s website. Vendors are responsible for checking this website for addenda prior to submitting their bids. Worcester County is not responsible for the content of any 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 conference will be held on site at Worcester County Department of Public Works, 1000 Shore Lane, Berlin, MD, on January 9, 2025, at 10:00am. The last day for questions will be January 22, 2025. Sealed Bid Documents are due no later than January 29, 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 – Lewis Road Gravity Sewer System and Pump Station”, in
the lower left-hand corner.
Minority vendors are encouraged to compete for award of the solicitation.
Nicholas W. Rice, CPPO, CPPB, NIGP-CPP Procurement Officer Worcester County, Maryland OCD-12/19/3t
STEPHEN J. REICHERT ESQ. 2221 LAKE AVE. BALTIMORE, MD 21213-1015
TO CREDITORS OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE ESTATE NO. 20457
Notice is given that the Probate Court of Travis County, Texas appointed Teresa C.Y. Hvizdos, 821 Post Oak Dr., Dripping Spgs., TX 78620-4110 as the Indepent Executor of the Estate of Robert P. Youngberg AKA: Robert Perrin Youngberg who died on January 07, 2022 domiciled in Texas, USA.
The Maryland resident agent for service of process is Stephen J. Reichert whose address is 2221 Lake Ave., Baltimore, MD 21213-1015.
At the time of death, the decedent owned real or leasehold property in the following Maryland counties: Worcester County.
All persons having claims against the decedent must file their claims with the Register of Wills for Worcester County with a copy to the foreign personal representative on or before the earlier of the following dates:
(1) Six months from the date of the decedent’s death; or
(2) Two months after the foreign personal representative mails or delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claim within two months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. Claims filed after that date or after a date extended by law will be barred.
Teresa C.Y. Hvizdos
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: December 19, 2024
OCD-12/19/3t
RACHEL B HARRIS ESQ
LAW OFFICE OF RACHEL B. HARRIS, LLC P O BOX 62 POCOMOKE CITY, MD 21851
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS
To all persons interested in the estate of J JOHN FRANCIS MANNIEL
III Estate No. 2 20459 Notice is given that D DIANA TOLEDO MARTIN whose address is 619 HILLCREST DR POCOMOKE CITY, MD 218519507 was on D DECEMBER 17, 2024 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of J JOHN FRANCIS
MANNIEL III who died on N NOVEMBER 06, 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 1 17th day of J JUNE, 2025
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-12/26/3t
JAMES W. ALMAND ESQ AYRES JENKINS GORDY & ALMAND, PA 6200 COASTAL HIGHWAY, SUITE 200 OCEAN CITY, MD 21842
NOTICE
OF APPOINTMENT
NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 20453 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF RICHARD CRAIG DAVIDSON SR.
Notice is given that Richard Craig Davidson, Jr., 27852 Davidson Ln., Frankford, DE 19945-3853; and Clinton William Davidson, 10228 Bishopville Rd., Bishopville, MD 21813-1210, were on December 18, 2024 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Richard Craig Davidson Sr. who died on October 25, 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 18th day of June, 2025.
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.
Richard Craig Davidson Jr.
Clinton William Davidson 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: December 26, 2024
OCD-12/26/3t
B. RANDALL COATES ESQ COSTES, 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. 20458 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF RICHARD RUSSELL HARTLEY
Notice is given that Bryan M. Hartley, 16 Sloop Ln., Berlin, MD 21811-1608, was on December 19, 2024 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Richard Russell Hartley who died on September 23, 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 19th day of June, 2025.
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.
Bryan M. Hartley
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: December 26, 2024
Maryland, hereinafter referred to as the Code, same being the Port Wardens Ordinance of Ocean City, Maryland, notice is hereby given that public hearings will be conducted in the Council Chambers of City Hall located at 301 Baltimore Avenue, Ocean City, Maryland.
Thursday, January 9, 2025 2:00 PM
OCD-12/26/3t
DAVID C. HARTY, ESQ.
8843 GREENBELT RD PMB 125 GREENBELT, MD 20770-2451
OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE ESTATE NO. 20462
NOTICE IS GIVEN that the Superior Court of District of Columbia county, District of Columbia appointed Sharon Banks Duncan, 14601 Locustwood Ln., Silver Spring, MD 20905-6423 as the Personal Representative of the Estate of Vera Jiggetts Banks who died on August 31, 2023 domiciled in District of Columbia, America.
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.
Sharon Banks Duncan 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: December 26, 2024
OCD-12/26/3t
Pursuant to the provisions of Chapter 106 ”Waterways,” Article II – “Shoreline Development” of the Code of the Town of Ocean City,
PW 24-001 A request has been submitted to install one boatlift on existing pilings not to exceed 17’ channelward. The site of the proposed construction is described as being located at 501 SEAWEED LN LOT 1 Parcel # 9927A-1 in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.
OWNER: David Freebery
APPLICANT: Kayla Short
PW 25-002 A request has been submitted to remove an existing floating dock, and install one boatlift with associated pilings not to exceed 12’9” channelward. The site of the proposed construction is described as being located at 608 OSPREY RD UNIT 4 Parcel # 5249 -4 in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.
OWNER: Ken Berger
APPLICANT: Kayla Short
PW 25-003 A request has been submitted to remove existing pier and one PWC float; construct a new 2.5’ x 20’ pier and install one boat lift with associated pilings a maximum channelward extension of 20’. The site of the proposed construction is described as being located at 121 70TH ST UNIT 4 Parcel # 6641 -4 in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.
OWNER: Il H. Pak
APPLICANT: J. Stacey Hart, Inc.
PW 25-004 A request has been submitted to install one boat lift with associated pilings a maximum channelward extension of 40’. The site of the proposed construction is described as being located at 425 14TH ST UNIT 107 – Slip 31 Parcel # 3486 -107 in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.
OWNER: Randal & Heather Newcomer
APPLICANT: J. Stacey Hart, Inc. OCD-12/26/2t
Mayor & City Council Ocean City, Maryland
Turf Fertilization and Weed Control Services
The Mayor & City Council of Ocean City is seeking Proposals from qualified and experienced Vendors to provide for the T Turf Fertilization and Weed Control Services and for said work to conform with the Proposal Documents.
BID Documents for the T Turf Fertilization and Weed Control Services may be obtained from the Town’s Procurement Department by either e-mailing the Procurement Manager, Matt Perry, at mperry@oceanci-
tymd.gov or Dawn Webb at dwebb@oceancitymd.gov, or by calling (410) 723-6643 during regular business hours, or via the Solicitations tab on the Town’s (https://oceancitymd.gov/oc/procurement-bids/) website. Vendors are responsible for checking this website for Addenda before submitting their BID’s. The Town is not responsible for the content of any Proposal Document received through any thirdparty service. Vendors are responsible for ensuring the completeness and accuracy of their Completed Proposal Documents.
A pre-proposal meeting is not applicable for this RFP. The last day for questions will be on T TUESDAY, JANUARY 14TH, 2025, AT 3:00PM Addendum will be posted by close of business on T TUESDAY, JANUARY 21ST, 2025
Sealed BID Documents are due no later than T THURSDAY, JANUARY 23RD, 2025, BY 3:00 PM. BID submissions will be opened, read aloud, and then remanded back to staff for further review at the P PROCUREMENT OFFICE CONFERENCE ROOM, ON TUESDAY, JANUARY 28TH, 2025, AT 10:00AM BID’s are to be submitted to the Procurement Office located at 214 65th Street, Ocean City, MD 21842, and the name of the Solicitation (TTurf Fertilization and Weed Control Services) 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-12/26/5t
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, January 9, 2025 at 6:00 PM
Pursuant to the provisions of Section 110-93(3), Powers, of the Code, an application has been filed in accordance with the provisions of Section 110-95(1)(a) requesting a variance to the minimum yard requirements to allow the depth of two lots to be less than 100’ as required by Code Section 110-276(2). These new lots, Lot 1A and Lot 2A, will be created by the proposed resubdivision of Parcel 9999, Lots 1, 2 and 3 of Block E, as shown on the attached
Subdivision Plat. The site of the appeal is described as Lots 1, 2 and 3, Block E of the Oceanbay City Plat; further described as located on the corner of Chesapeake Drive and Bering Road, and locally known as 401 Bering Road, in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.
APPLICANT: HUGH CROPPER, IV, ATTY FOR VASILIOS D & JENNIFER L KIRITSIS – (BZA 2707 #24-09500005)
6:10 PM
Pursuant to the provisions of Section 110-93(2), Powers, of the Code, an application has been filed in accordance with the provisions of Section 110-94(2)(b) requesting a special parking exception to design standards of Code Section 110-935(i)(1) to allow tandem parking so that one of the two required parking spaces on the driveway is behind the singlecar garage, restricted for use of that dwelling unit only. The site of the appeal is described as Tax Map 0115, Grid 10, Parcels C and D of the OCTC Holdings, LLC, Plat, further described as located on the west side of Coastal Highway between 94th and 99th Streets, and known locally as 9507 Coastal Hwy, in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.
APPLICANT: JOSEPH E. MOORE, ESQ., for OCTC HOLDINGS, PARCEL C, LLC & PARCEL D, LLC –(BZA 2706 #24-09400027)
6:20 PM
Pursuant to the provisions of Section 110-93(2), Powers, of the Code, an application has been filed in accordance with the provisions of Section 110-94(2)(b) requesting a special parking exception to design standards of Code Section 110-935(i)(1) to allow for enclosed garages with one (1) parking space to have an 8foot clear garage door opening instead of 10 feet as required for a reduction of 2 feet, for the proposed 116 townhouses on both Parcels C and D. The site of the appeal is described as Tax Map 0115, Grid 10, Parcels C and D of the OCTC Holdings, LLC, Plat; further described as located on the west side of Coastal Highway between 94th and 99th Streets, and known locally as 9507 Coastal Highway, in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.
APPLICANT: HUGH CROPPER, IV, ATTY FOR OCTC HOLDINGS, PARCEL C, LLC & PARCEL D, LLC – (BZA 2709 #24-09400028) 6:30 PM
Pursuant to the provisions of Section 110-93(2), Powers, of the Code, an application has been filed in accordance with the provisions of Section 110-94(2)(b), requesting an after-the-fact special parking exception to allow one of two required offstreet parking spaces to be 16.50’ in length so that the landing and steps may remain as constructed. The site of the appeal is described as Lot 14, Block G of the Oceanbay City Plat; further described as located on the south side of N. Pacific Avenue, and known locally as 607 N. Pacific Ave, in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.
APPLICANT: BRYAN J & KIMBERLY HOWLIN – (BZA 2705 #2409400026)
Further information concerning the public hearings may be examined in the office of the Department
The motor vehicles described below have been abandoned. The owners and lien holders are hereby informed of their right to reclaim the vehicles upon payment of all charges and costs resulting from the towing, preservation, and storage of the vehicles.
The failure of the owners or lien holders to reclaim the vehicles within three weeks of notification shall be deemed a waiver by the owners or lien holders of all rights, title and interest and thereby consent to the sale of the vehicles at public auction or to have it otherwise disposed of in a manner provided by law.
These three weeks of notification begins on D DATE: 12/20/2024
All vehicles will be sold at auction on-line at www.govdeals.com. For details call 410-723-6643.
AUTH: Michael Colbert I-Chief of Police
of Planning and Community Development in City Hall.
Christopher Rudolf, Chairman Maureen Howarth, Attorney OCD-12/26/2t
THURSDAY JANUARY 9, 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. 25-5, on the lands of Mary and John Cosentino, requesting an after-the-fact variance to the side yard setback from 8 feet to 7.49 feet (to encroach 0.51 foot) for an existing accessory structure in the R-2 Suburban Residential District, pursuant to Zoning Code §§ ZS 1116(c)(4), ZS 1-206(b)(2) and ZS 1-305, located at 18 Tail of the Fox Drive, Tax Map 16, Parcel 46, Section 9, Lot 575, Tax District 3, Worcester County, Maryland.
6:35 p.m.
Case No. 25-2, on the lands of Fedale Berlin LLC, on the application of Matt Wiley, requesting a special exception to allow the expansion of a nonconforming use and struc-
ture in order to construct a roof over a proposed 6’ x 20’ porch addition to a single-family residence in the C-2 General Commercial District, pursuant to Zoning Code §§ ZS 1116(c)(5), ZS 1-122(d)(1), ZS 1-116(c)(3), ZS 1-210 and ZS 1-305, located approximately 1,600 feet west of Herring Creek Lane between Grays Corner Road and U.S. Route 50, Tax Map 26, Parcel 347, Tax District 10, Worcester County, Maryland.
6:40 p.m.
Case No. 25-3, on the lands of William Cross and Joseph Hodski, on the application of J. Stacey Hart & Associates, Inc., requesting a variance to the side lot line setbacks on Lots 330 & 331 from 6 feet to 0 feet for a proposed shared dock in the R3 Multi-family Residential District, pursuant to Zoning Code §§ ZS 1116(n)(3), ZS 1-207(d)(6), and ZS 1335, and Natural Resources Code §§ 2-102(e)(2) , located at 154 & 253 Teal Circle, Tax Map 16, Parcel 41, Section 4, Lots 330 & 331, Tax District 3, Worcester County, Maryland.
6:45 p.m.
Case No. 25-4, on the lands of Kathy and Carmine Picarelli, on the application of Josette Wheatley, requesting two (2) after-the-fact variances to each side lot line setback for an existing dock and two (2) afterthe-fact variances to each side lot line setback for an existing floating dock from 6 feet to 3.15 feet (to encroach 2.85 feet) for each structure on the property’s north side and from 6 feet to 1.23 feet (to encroach 4.77 feet) for each structure on the property’s south side in the R-2 Suburban Residential District, pursuant to Zoning Code §§ ZS 1-116(n)(3), ZS 1206(d)(6), and ZS 1-335, and Natural Resources Code §§ 2-102(e)(2), located at 14 Drawbridge Road, Tax Map 16, Parcel 42, Section 5, Lot 98, Tax District 3, Worcester County,
Maryland.
6:50 p.m.
Case No. 24-74, on the lands of Nancy and William Jenkins, on the application of Kristina Watkowski, requesting a variance to reduce the Atlantic Coastal Bays Critical Area Buffer from 100 feet to 23.65 feet (to encroach 76.35 feet) for a proposed patio and fence in the R-2 Suburban Residential District, pursuant to Zoning Code §§ ZS 1-116(m) and ZS 1-305 and Natural Resources Code §§ 3-104(d)(4) and NR 3-111, located at 12406 Coastal Marsh Drive, Tax Map 33, Parcel 281, Lot 56, Tax District 10, Worcester County, Maryland.
6:55 p.m.
Case No. 25-1, on the lands of Gary and Tracy Desjardins, on the application of Kristina Watkowski, requesting an after-the-fact variance to reduce the Atlantic Coastal Bays Critical Area Buffer from 100 feet to 31.9 feet (to encroach 68.1 feet) for an existing paver patio and walkway in the E-1 Estate District, pursuant to Zoning Code §§ ZS 1-116(m) and ZS 1-305 and Natural Resources Code §§ 3-104(d)(4) and NR 3-111, located at 11323 Newport Bay Drive, Tax Map 50, Parcel 50, Lot 14, Tax District 10, Worcester County, Maryland.
7:00 p.m.
Case No. 25-6, on the lands of DW RE Holdings, LLC, on the application of Hugh Cropper, IV, requesting a special exception for proposed outdoor batting cages and two (2) variances to the 100 foot setback from an arterial highway for batting cages from 100 feet to 20.2 feet (to encroach 79.8 feet) and for a relocated storage shed from 100 feet to 38.8 feet (to encroach 61.2 feet) in the C2 General Commercial District, pursuant to Zoning Code §§ ZS 1-116(c)(3), ZS 1-116(c)(4), ZS 1210(c)(1), and ZS 1-305(b)2, located
Subdivision Plat. The site of the appeal is described as Lots 1, 2 and 3, Block E of the Oceanbay City Plat; further described as located on the corner of Chesapeake Drive and Bering Road, and locally known as 401 Bering Road, in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.
APPLICANT: HUGH CROPPER, IV, ATTY FOR VASILIOS D & JENNIFER L KIRITSIS – (BZA 2707 #24-09500005)
6:10 PM
Pursuant to the provisions of Section 110-93(2), Powers, of the Code, an application has been filed in accordance with the provisions of Section 110-94(2)(b) requesting a special parking exception to design standards of Code Section 110-935(i)(1) to allow tandem parking so that one of the two required parking spaces on the driveway is behind the singlecar garage, restricted for use of that dwelling unit only. The site of the appeal is described as Tax Map 0115, Grid 10, Parcels C and D of the OCTC Holdings, LLC, Plat, further described as located on the west side of Coastal Highway between 94th and 99th Streets, and known locally as 9507 Coastal Hwy, in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.
APPLICANT: JOSEPH E. MOORE, ESQ., for OCTC HOLDINGS, PARCEL C, LLC & PARCEL D, LLC –(BZA 2706 #24-09400027)
6:20 PM
Pursuant to the provisions of Section 110-93(2), Powers, of the Code, an application has been filed in accordance with the provisions of Section 110-94(2)(b) requesting a special parking exception to design standards of Code Section 110-935(i)(1) to allow for enclosed garages with one (1) parking space to have an 8foot clear garage door opening instead of 10 feet as required for a reduction of 2 feet, for the proposed 116 townhouses on both Parcels C and D. The site of the appeal is described as Tax Map 0115, Grid 10, Parcels C and D of the OCTC Holdings, LLC, Plat; further described as located on the west side of Coastal Highway between 94th and 99th Streets, and known locally as 9507 Coastal Highway, in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.
APPLICANT: HUGH CROPPER, IV, ATTY FOR OCTC HOLDINGS, PARCEL C, LLC & PARCEL D, LLC – (BZA 2709 #24-09400028) 6:30 PM
Pursuant to the provisions of Section 110-93(2), Powers, of the Code, an application has been filed in accordance with the provisions of Section 110-94(2)(b), requesting an after-the-fact special parking exception to allow one of two required offstreet parking spaces to be 16.50’ in length so that the landing and steps may remain as constructed. The site of the appeal is described as Lot 14, Block G of the Oceanbay City Plat; further described as located on the south side of N. Pacific Avenue, and known locally as 607 N. Pacific Ave, in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.
APPLICANT: BRYAN J & KIMBERLY HOWLIN – (BZA 2705 #2409400026)
Further information concerning the public hearings may be examined in the office of the Department
of Planning and Community Development in City Hall.
Christopher Rudolf, Chairman Maureen Howarth, Attorney OCD-12/26/2t
THURSDAY JANUARY 9, 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. 25-5, on the lands of Mary and John Cosentino, requesting an after-the-fact variance to the side yard setback from 8 feet to 7.49 feet (to encroach 0.51 foot) for an existing accessory structure in the R-2 Suburban Residential District, pursuant to Zoning Code §§ ZS 1116(c)(4), ZS 1-206(b)(2) and ZS 1-305, located at 18 Tail of the Fox Drive, Tax Map 16, Parcel 46, Section 9, Lot 575, Tax District 3, Worcester County, Maryland.
6:35 p.m.
Case No. 25-2, on the lands of Fedale Berlin LLC, on the application of Matt Wiley, requesting a special exception to allow the expansion of a nonconforming use and structure in order to construct a roof over a proposed 6’ x 20’ porch addition to a single-family residence in the C-2 General Commercial District, pursuant to Zoning Code §§ ZS 1116(c)(5), ZS 1-122(d)(1), ZS 1-116(c)(3), ZS 1-210 and ZS 1-305, located approximately 1,600 feet west of Herring Creek Lane between Grays Corner Road and U.S. Route 50, Tax Map 26, Parcel 347, Tax District 10, Worcester County, Maryland.
6:40 p.m.
Case No. 25-3, on the lands of William Cross and Joseph Hodski, on the application of J. Stacey Hart & Associates, Inc., requesting a variance to the side lot line setbacks on Lots 330 & 331 from 6 feet to 0 feet for a proposed shared dock in the R3 Multi-family Residential District, pursuant to Zoning Code §§ ZS 1116(n)(3), ZS 1-207(d)(6), and ZS 1335, and Natural Resources Code §§ 2-102(e)(2) , located at 154 & 253 Teal Circle, Tax Map 16, Parcel 41, Section 4, Lots 330 & 331, Tax District 3, Worcester County, Maryland. 6:45 p.m.
Case No. 25-4, on the lands of Kathy and Carmine Picarelli, on the application of Josette Wheatley, requesting two (2) after-the-fact variances to each side lot line setback for an existing dock and two (2) after-
the-fact variances to each side lot line setback for an existing floating dock from 6 feet to 3.15 feet (to encroach 2.85 feet) for each structure on the property’s north side and from 6 feet to 1.23 feet (to encroach 4.77 feet) for each structure on the property’s south side in the R-2 Suburban Residential District, pursuant to Zoning Code §§ ZS 1-116(n)(3), ZS 1206(d)(6), and ZS 1-335, and Natural Resources Code §§ 2-102(e)(2), located at 14 Drawbridge Road, Tax Map 16, Parcel 42, Section 5, Lot 98, Tax District 3, Worcester County, Maryland.
6:50 p.m.
Case No. 24-74, on the lands of Nancy and William Jenkins, on the application of Kristina Watkowski, requesting a variance to reduce the Atlantic Coastal Bays Critical Area Buffer from 100 feet to 23.65 feet (to encroach 76.35 feet) for a proposed patio and fence in the R-2 Suburban Residential District, pursuant to Zoning Code §§ ZS 1-116(m) and ZS 1-305 and Natural Resources Code §§ 3-104(d)(4) and NR 3-111, located at 12406 Coastal Marsh Drive, Tax Map 33, Parcel 281, Lot 56, Tax District 10, Worcester County, Maryland.
6:55 p.m.
Case No. 25-1, on the lands of Gary and Tracy Desjardins, on the application of Kristina Watkowski, requesting an after-the-fact variance to reduce the Atlantic Coastal Bays Critical Area Buffer from 100 feet to 31.9 feet (to encroach 68.1 feet) for an existing paver patio and walkway in the E-1 Estate District, pursuant to Zoning Code §§ ZS 1-116(m) and ZS 1-305 and Natural Resources Code §§ 3-104(d)(4) and NR 3-111, located at 11323 Newport Bay Drive, Tax Map 50, Parcel 50, Lot 14, Tax District 10, Worcester County, Maryland.
7:00 p.m.
Case No. 25-6, on the lands of DW RE Holdings, LLC, on the application of Hugh Cropper, IV, requesting a special exception for proposed outdoor batting cages and two (2) variances to the 100 foot setback from an arterial highway for batting cages from 100 feet to 20.2 feet (to encroach 79.8 feet) and for a relocated storage shed from 100 feet to 38.8 feet (to encroach 61.2 feet) in the C2 General Commercial District, pursuant to Zoning Code §§ ZS 1-116(c)(3), ZS 1-116(c)(4), ZS 1210(c)(1), and ZS 1-305(b)2, located at 9810 Hammond Road, Tax Map 9, Parcel 378, Lot 1, Tax District 5, Worcester County, Maryland.
7:05 p.m.
Case No. 25-7, on the lands of DW RE Holdings, LLC, on the application of Hugh Cropper, IV, requesting a special exception for an outdoor commercial recreation establishment (baseball practice infield), a special exception to allow a 20-foot high fence, and a variance to the 100 foot setback from an arterial highway for a baseball backstop from 100 feet to 25.27 feet (to encroach 74.73 feet) in the C-2 General Commercial District, pursuant to Zoning Code §§ ZS 1-116(c)(3), ZS 1-116(c)(4), ZS 1210(c)(1), ZS 1-305(b)2 and ZS 1305(k)(3), located on the east side of Worcester Highway approximately
500 feet south of Hammond Road, Tax Map 9, Parcel 378, Parcel 2, Tax District 5, Worcester County, Maryland.
Administrative Matters
OCD-12/26/2t
EHRHART LAW, LLC
AMY E.W. EHRHART ESQ. 118 CARLISLE ST., STE. 202 HANOVER, PA 17331-2486
TO CREDITORS OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE ESTATE NO. 20433
NOTICE IS GIVEN that the Court of Common Pleas court of Adams County, Pennsylvania appointed Denise S. Geiman, 225 N. Allwood Dr., Hanover, PA 173317834 as the Executrix of the Estate of Leigh Anne McGonigal who died on March 07, 2021 domiciled in Pennsylvania, USA.
The Maryland resident agent for service of process is Donna B. Eisenhart whose address is 2949 Uniontown Rd., Westminister, MD 21158-3527.
At the time of death, the decedent owned real or leasehold property in the following Maryland counties: Worcester County.
All persons having claims against the decedent must file their claims with the Register of Wills for Worcester County with a copy to the foreign personal representative on or before the earlier of the following dates: (1) Six months from the date of the decedent’s death; or (2) Two months after the foreign personal representative mails or delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claim within two months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. Claims filed after that date or after a date extended by law will be barred.
Denise S. Geiman 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: January 2, 2025
OCD-1/2/3t
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS
To all persons interested in the estate of M MARIE S. DEANGELIS Estate No. 2 20463 Notice is given that ERIC B. GARVEY whose address is 2006 CRANBOURNE RD., LUTHVLE TIMON, MD 21093-7016 was on D DECEMBER 19, 2024 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of M MARIE S. DEANGELIS who died on D DECEMBER 06, 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 represen-
tative or the attorney.
All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent's will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 1 19th day of J JUNE, 2025
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-1/2/3t
OF PASSAGE OF BILL 24-08
WORCESTER COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
Take Notice that Bill 24-08 (Zoning – Detached Accessory Buildings and Off-Street Parking in Campground Subdivisions) was passed by Commissioners Elder, Fiori, Mitrecic, and Purnell on December 17, 2024.
A fair summary of the bill is as follows:
§ ZS 1 318(d)(1)E. (Amends the accessory building section to permit two detached accessory buildings on each campsite, one of which must remain unenclosed, with a separation
distance of three feet between accessory buildings and any other building or structure on the same or other lot.)
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
OCD-1/2/3t
OF
OF BILL 24-11
WORCESTER COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
Take Notice that Bill 24-11 (Zoning – Private, noncommercial storage buildings) was introduced by Commissioners Fiori and Mitrecic on December 17, 2024.
A fair summary of the bill is as follows:
§ ZS 1-201(c)(34). (Adds a special exception use for private, noncommercial buildings for the storage of personal property.)
A P Public Hearing
will be held on Bill 24-11 at the Commissioners’ Meeting Room, Room 1101 – Government Center, One West Market Street, Snow Hill, Maryland on T Tuesday, January 21, 2025 at 10:35 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
OCD-1/2/2t
OF INTRODUCTION OF BILL 24-10
WORCESTER COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
Take Notice that Bill 24-10 (Zoning – Signs) was introduced by Commissioners Abbott, Bertino, Mitrecic, and Purnell on December 17, 2024.
A fair summary of the bill is as follows:
§ZS 1-324(c)(9)B. (Amends the subsection to allow internal community signs within a residential development in the commercial zoning districts.)
§ZS 1-324(c)(9)F. (Adds a new subsection to allow a second electronic messaging internal community sign on the same parcel or lot by special exception.)
will be held on Bill 24-10 at the Commissioners’ Meeting Room, Room 1101 – Government Center, One West Market Street, Snow Hill, Maryland on T Tuesday, January 21, 2025 at 10:30 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
OCD-1/2/2t
By Brian Shane Staff Writer
(Jan. 3, 2025) Ocean Pines plans to add new electronic signage at the north and south gate entrances to the community, but Worcester County leaders need to tweak a county ordinance to make it happen.
The Ocean Pines Board of Directors wants to replace older signage with new electronic message signs at the north and south gate entrances, at Manklin Creek Road and Cathell Road, respectively. Such signs would provide only information about Ocean Pines and would not show any advertising content, and they’d maintain the same “monument” style of signage that already exists in the community.
The board’s reason for the sign replacement is to eliminate the clutter of changeable signage along Ocean Parkway’s right-of-way, according to a Dec. 6 internal memo by Jennifer Keener, director of Development Review and Permitting. Electronic signs also offer greater immediacy for altering a message.
This discussion came before the Worcester County Planning Commission on Dec. 5, as a request from Ocean Pines General Manager John Viola. He was asking for the existing law about signs and sign placement to be amended on behalf of the Ocean Pines Association.
It’s not a new request, according to Keener. After years of talking back and forth as to where to place possible electronic messaging signs, the county and the Ocean Pines Association realized that they need a text amendment to accommodate the change.
The reason for this is that the code as written now prohibits a development from having more than one electronic messaging sign at a time per parcel, Keener told the Worcester County Board of Commissioners at its Dec. 17 meeting.
Keener asked the commissioners to create an amendment to this law. The amendment does two things: it adds the provision for electronic signs to be allowed in a commercial district, and it also allows for a second electronic messaging sign on the same parcel.
County Commissioner Chip Bertino (District 5, Ocean Pines) agreed to sponsor the bill, which will now come back before the commissioners at a future meeting for a vote. Bertino said that Ocean Pines may have a maximum of eight such electronic signs they can install community-wide.
By Lauren Bunting
Contributing Writer
(Jan. 3, 2025) Optimism abounds for a bigger housing turnaround in the new year. The housing market could open up more opportunities to home buyers in 2025 and lead to a housing rebound after two years of sluggish sales, housing economists said in December during the National Association of Realtors Real Estate Forecast Summit.
“Home buyers will have more success next year,” said Lawrence Yun, NAR’s chief economist. “The worst of the afford-
The Town of Berlin and Berlin Main Street announced the grant award of $50,000 to continue the Berlin Commercial Façade Grant Program. This grant program provides matching funds to downtown property and business owners to improve the exterior of their buildings, enhance the overall streetscape, and attract new customers. The grants will cover up to 50% of the
ability challenges are over as more inventory, stable mortgage rates and continued job and incoming growth pave the way for more Americans to achieve homeownership.”
NAR research shows that if mortgage rates fall to 6%—as NAR predicts they likely will in 2025—homeownership could be made more affordable to about 6.2 million more prospective buyers than when rates were near 7%.
Also optimistic are home builders. According to the latest National Association of Home Builders/Wells Fargo Housing Market builder sentiment index, home builders’ future sales expectations climb near a three-year high. New construction single-family homes came in at a 7%
year-over-year increase in November, based on a Commerce Department report.
However, with a slow-down in sales for much of 2024, some builders are having to cut home prices and offer sales incentives to clear standing inventory: 31% of builders cut their home prices in November, with the average price reduction being 5%, and 60% of home builders reported using sales incentives, such as covering closing costs and/or buying down mortgage rates.
Look for a Worcester County “year in review” home sales recap next week.
Lauren Bunting is the Broker of Record with Keller Williams Realty Delmarva in Ocean City, MD.
total project cost, with a maximum award of $10,000. The funds can be used for a variety of improvements, such as painting, signage, lighting, awnings, etc.
“The Town of Berlin is incredibly grateful to receive this continued support. The facade grant program has been instrumental in restoring our downtown shopping district, making it more vibrant and attractive for both residents and visitors,” said Mayor Zack Tyndall. “We encourage our small businesses to reach
out to our Economic and Community Development team to start the conversation about their 2025 facade improvement projects. Together, we can continue to enhance the beauty and appeal of Berlin.”
“The Downtown Commercial Façade Grant Program is an essential tool in supporting the continued growth and development of our downtown district,” said Ivy Wells, director of economic and
Continued on Page 42
Continued from Page 41
community development, “We are excited to see the applications next year and we look forward to seeing the continued historic preservation and beautification of our downtown Main Street Historic District.”
Applications for the Berlin Façade Grant will be available in January.
The American Bankers Association has selected Jennifer A. Poulsen, president and CEO of Hebron Savings Bank, to serve on ABA’s Community Bankers Council.
Poulsen attended the ABA Community Bankers Council meeting in Washington, D.C., Nov. 11-13, when the discussion concerned how next year’s presidential administration change might affect banking. Also on the list of topics at the session were the association’s legislative priorities, including the farm bill and tax reform; and regulatory priorities, including national bank preemption, the Federal Reserve’s discount window, overdraft fees and Section 1033 of the Dodd-Frank Act.
Hebron Savings Bank is an independent, state-chartered, FDIC-insured community bank headquartered in Hebron, operating 14 full-service offices in Wicomico, Somerset, Worcester and Dorchester counties.
Council members also had a chance to exchange ideas on ways to prevent and mitigate check fraud, manage net interest income and interest rate risk, attract and develop the next generation of bank leaders and many other business and operations best practices.
Dreaming of owning you
This charming efficiency 45 offers the perfect ble venience, just steps from Ocean City’s stunning b love - prime midtown lo of Ocean City dining, sh Steps to the beach with living, ideal for a vacatio opportunity. Includes ou beach essentials & an a
hassle-free visits. Don’t own a slice of coastal li most sought-after locat showing today & buy th
r own piece of paradise? condo at Ocean Waye nd of comfort and conthe sandy shores of each. Some features you’ll cation to enjoy the best opping & entertainment. this low maintenance n getaway or investment tdoor storage for all your ssigned parking space for miss this opportunity to ving in one of Ocean City’s ions. Schedule your e beach house.
S-101, Ocean City 10.524.6400
Brent Miller, executive managing director at SVN | Miller Commercial Real Estate in Salisbury, has been honored with the prestigious Massimo Master Broker designation at this year’s MassimoCon conference at Texas Live hosted by Rod Santomassimo with The Massimo Group, which is the premier commercial real estate coaching and consulting organization in North America.
This exclusive recognition is awarded to brokers who demonstrate unwavering dedication to advancing the commercial real estate industry. Recipients exemplify leadership, skill, and a commitment to delivering outstanding client results while contributing to their communities. The inaugural cohort includes only 20 brokers, with a limited number being added each year.
“I am deeply honored to receive the Massimo Master Broker designation,” said Miller. “This recognition highlights the incredible work of our SVN | Miller team and our shared commitment to delivering the best outcomes for our clients and communities. It’s a privilege to be part of such an exceptional group of professionals.”
The Community Foundation of the Eastern Shore recently announced that Lu Ann Goldsborough and Dr. Richard Warren, Jr. have joined the Foundation’s Board of Directors, along with new staff members Devin La Femina and Rose Taylor. Goldsborough resides in Crisfield and has an extensive background in education, servicing Somerset County Public Schools for more than 40 years. Additionally, she has worked alongside the Maryland State Department of Education and Johns Hopkins University Center of Technology on the Maryland Online IEP program and modifying state assessments.
Warren currently serves as the Hazel Professor of Education at University of Maryland Eastern Shore and as the appointed chair of the Education Executive Policy for the governor of Maryland.
Femina joins the foundation as accounting coordinator. Her background includes working for TRS CPA Group/Compass, Genesis Healthcare, and the Law Office of Sarah J. Michael. In her role, Devin will support the finance department.
Taylor will serve as advancement officer. Her prior experience includes serving the Salvation Army as community & donor relations manager, and director of outreach for the Ward Foundation. Rose will play a key role in supporting current and future donors, stewarding charitable gifts, and leading many events.
Friday 1-3pm5401
Saturrdday 11am-1pm 2
Saturrdday 11am-1pm 9 46th S
Saturrdday 10am-1pm 10
Saturrdday Noon-2pm
Saturrdday 1:30-3:30pm 202 S.
Saturrdday 2-4pm 1160
Sunday 11am-1pm2
Sunday Noon-2pm
0Nancy Reither/Coldwell
0 Nancy Reither/Coldwell
5 Steve Grreeen/Coastal Life
0Katie Landon/Coldwell
0 Nancy Reither/Coldwell Banker Realty
0Nancy Reither/Coldwell
0Katie Landon/Coldwell Banker
0Nancy Reither/Coldwell Banker Realty
0 Nancy Reither/Coldwell Banker Realty
(Jan. 3, 2025) First Friday on Jan. 3 celebrates a collaboration between visual artists and writers during the 12th Annual “Shared Visions” exhibit at the Ocean City Center for the Arts. All are welcome to the free event that runs from 5-7 p.m. Montgomery Financial is sponsoring the complimentary refreshments.
“Shared Visions” is a collaboration of the literary word and visual art. The exhibition features 19 local writers and 25 artist members of the Art League of Ocean City. This year, the artists submitted a piece of art to inspire the writers who authored poems and short prose. The writings will be displayed alongside the paintings, photography, fiber art, and mixed media that inspired them.
“This is the 12th year for the collaboration,” Rina Thaler, executive director of the Art League, said. “It is an inspired coming-together of words and images and demonstrates the different forms of self-expression.”
On Tuesday, Jan. 21 from 6-8 p.m., the writers will read their poetry and prose that was inspired by the artwork during a free event at the Arts Center, and the public is invited. Guests will enjoy complimentary refreshments.
In January, the Sisson Galleria will feature an exhibit entitled “Mix & Mingle,” an all-media group show that explores the combining of materials, techniques and creative visions. Artists were encouraged to create individually or collaborate with a fellow artist. Mary Bode Byrd will judge the show, and the Art League will award
cash prizes to the winners.
Collin Byrd, the Art League’s Fellow for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, exhibits in Studio E in January. Byrd is assistant professor of art at the University of Maryland Eastern Shore where he teaches graphic illustration and animation. He was formerly professor of animation of the Savannah School of Art and Design, his alma mater, where he received his Master’s Degree. Byrd constantly experiments with the limits of digital creation tools from 3D printing to interactive comic art.
Bernadette Tucker is the Schwab Spotlight Gallery artist for January. A retired Therapeutic Recreation Therapist, Tucker’s art comes from a place of healing and gratitude. After a health scare, she challenged herself to depict water onto a two-dimensional space with the theme of “Tropical Paradise.” The artist holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts from Savannah College of Art and Design.
Jessica Beck occupies the Artisan Showcase in January. Beck is an architecture and civil engineering student at the Catholic University of America in Washington, DC and an Art League scholarship recipient. Growing up in Ocean City instilled in her a profound love for the vast. Her art business, OC-Shellscapes, aims to connect people to places and memories through a small touch of the ocean.
The Art League’s satellite galleries also open new shows on First Friday. Suzy Quader of Ocean Pines shows her pastel landscapes in the lobby of
the Princess Royale Hotel at 9110 Coastal Hwy. Alexis McKenzie of Rehoboth Beach is the artist-in-residence at the Coffee Beanery at 94th St. and Coastal Hwy., showing her colorful and abstract mixed media.
Arts Center exhibits run through
Feb.1. Satellite gallery exhibits continue through March 29.
The Ocean City Center for the Arts at 502 94th St. is open daily until 4 p.m., and admission is always free. More information is available at OCart.org or by calling 410-5249433.
by Steve Green
bout 14 years ago, our neighbor organized a kickball game on Christmas Day afternoon. Ever since, aside from the pandemic, a group of us have burned off some Christmas energy together with laughs and camaraderie.
It’s a fun tradition my sons, Beckett, 16, and Carson, 15, have enjoyed growing up with as part of Christmas Day. More family members have joined in the tradition making it even more fun.
By mid-day Christmas, I am ready to get out of the house and get some fresh air. Gathering with a group of friends, and strangers in some cases, to play a friendly game of kickball is a perfect outing.
To me, this game, which always ends in a tie in my head, is about community and it’s a ton of fun. I made a folder on my phone this week of pictures from all the years of kickball I could find. The game has grown from a dozen or so folks the first couple years, especially the colder days, to now more than 70. It’s to the point there are as many bystanders as there are players. It makes it special.
For my kids, I know it has created lifelong memories, which is important to me.
As a father, creating memories with my kids is one of the best things about parenting. With my boys growing up and showing signs of growing into well-rounded, somewhat independent people, my focus is on two things. First, I want to mentor them through life and hopefully they can learn from mistakes I made along the way.
Secondly, I want to provide my teens with experiences and memories. Nothing makes me happier than when Beckett comes up to me to talk about a memory or shows me something on his phone that reminds him of something we have done in the past.
As we were getting out of the truck
to walk to the kickball game on Christmas, Beckett reminded me to be careful. I was puzzled until he then held up his ring finger. I remembered immediately. He was referring to the year I caught a ball and stretched my extensor tendon on my left ring finger, resulting in the tip of the finger just dangling without any control. When it didn’t heal on its own by mid-February, I eventually went to the doctor and had to get a splint. This year I got through the game with only a jammed finger, which is one of those reminders about aging.
Another recent example of something jogging a memory with Beckett was a song coming on the radio. It was 2020 when we ran into Ginuwine, an R&B singer and now disc jockey, in an airport in Atlanta. It was a bummer of a trip for us because we learned once we landed in Atlanta the NBA game we came to see on a father-son trip had been canceled due to players having Covid and the teams not being able to suit up enough men. While the trip will certainly be remembered for that disappointment, I love that he recalled meeting Ginuwine. What I remember about this is Beckett and I sitting on the floor at the crowded airport gate, and Beckett offering to give Ginuwine a hand getting up because he was clearly injured.
As he is prone to do, Beckett started asking about his injury, leading to the revelation of who he was. Beckett googled him on my phone and started playing his best-known song, Pony, quoting how many followers he had on Spotify. I’m glad he remembered this part of the trip rather than the disappointment.
For me this year’s kickball game, Carson gets into it especially kicking at the plate. In recent years, Carson would run the bases with his mom or me kicking the ball. As we were awaiting our turn, Carson was all about kicking. He’s more into kicking than playing in the field, of course. The best
part is the good-natured individuals we play with every year. The players in the field seemingly let Carson’s short pop-ups fall so he could reach base. He scored a couple runs, too, I think.
The annual kickball game serves as a great opportunity to get together with friends outside on a beautiful day, but also a reminder of the kind, empathetic community we have here. I don’t take it for granted. I will never assume everyone is kind and understanding, but I take immense pride and comfort in knowing my kids are growing up in such a special place.
With New Year’s this week, I came across a funny list of New Year’s resolutions from a mom on the Raising Teens Today website worthy of sharing.
No. 1: Buy a new phone charger and hide it so my kids can’t find it.
No. 2: Donate my son’s coats to kids who will actually wear them.
No. 3: Vow to close my teen’s bedroom door instead of nagging them about the mess.
No. 4: Stop taking their “offishness” so damn personally.
No. 5: Buy a dog so someone is happy to see me when I get home.
No. 6: Buy new forks and spoons and hide them so my kids can’t steal them.
No. 7: Stop making impossible New Year’s resolutions (see No. 4)
No. 8: Stop getting so worked up about the small stuff.
No. 9: Find the humor in it all, ‘cus this won’t last forever.
No. 10: Find ways to let my kids know they’re loved every single day.
A No. 11: I will add is to laugh more with my wife and boys.
(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@mdcoastdispatch.com.)
Appropriate equipment key to riding in colder weather
By Dave Dalkiewicz Contributing Writer
(Jan. 3, 2025) The most recent column/article concerned winter surfing, but the thinking here is that it might be appropriate to continue on the subject for the first issue of the New Year. Hopefully we can expand the idea of surfing in cold conditions, and it won’t seem like such a nutty thing to do. Okay, okay. What knuckle head wants to immerse his or her body into 40-ish degree water with air temperatures in the same range or colder? The astute surfer with decent equipment is the short answer to that question.
Yes, wetsuits do work well. A thicker suit is the best call, at least thicker than one that would be worn in late spring, cooler summer, or early fall. Substantial boots, gloves, hood or cap of wetsuit material, and a heavy dose of desire, would just about complete the picture. A wetsuit with an attached hood could also be an excellent consideration.
I can recall an in-the-water conversation with a fellow surfer while waiting for a set of waves. It happened in California but when the guy found out where I was from he asked about the cold winter conditions.
I explained how cold it could get. His reply was to the effect that I was just plain crazy to surf in such cold conditions or that I was the gnarliest guy he had ever encountered. My reply to him was that he would do the same thing if he lived back east and that it wasn’t as harsh as he thought.
Despite the fact that there are probably best times of the year for surf it all depends on the winds out to sea over the water. Though waves can happen at any time, winter can be much more dynamic in this regard to wind. So, winter can be a good season. Again, it all depends on weather patterns and winds out to sea.
A lot of surfers lay off in the coldest times of the year, unless they have the time and funds to travel to warmer areas. There’s nothing wrong with that. In more of a comedic manner, I like to refer to cold winter surfing as counter intuitive. Maybe it’s just a little secret that only a select few know
By Deborah Lee Walker Contributing Writer
(Jan. 3, 2025) The path of intention peaks behind the tedious metronome of daily routines. Submission to repetitiveness could become a way of existence. However, my passion for individualism entices me to a point of no return.
But in the interim of progression, I allow myself to take a much-deserved break and enjoy a glass of Pinot Noir. This symphony of red fruits with layers of earthiness and hints of vanilla eases my soul. Sometimes the smallest recollection can trigger a mound of cherished memories.
It’s hard to believe that it will be nine years since the passing of my father. Some say time has a way of healing; I think it is more appropriate to say we adjust and incorporate it into the book of life. My father and I adored caviar and every so often he would surprise me with a sampling of the finest fish eggs from all over the world.
If one decides to incorporate caviar into their menu, there are a few protocols you should know. First and foremost, fine caviar should be served very cold in a non-metallic bowl nestled inside a larger bowl filled with ice.
Caviar does not freeze until it is below 28 degrees, so you should store it in the coldest part of the refrigerator to get it as ice-cold as possible without it actually freezing, which can affect the texture of the eggs.
Avoid metal utensils which may impart a metallic taste to the caviar. Choose servers and utensils made of glass, plastic, or traditional mother-of-pearl.
Purists will insist on a shot of the finest frozen vodka to accompany their caviar. If you prefer champagne, choose the driest version possible.
Take small bites of caviar. It is an expensive product and should be enjoyed and not gobbled up. And whatever you do, do not park next to the caviar setup and indulge. Partaking of more than two ounces is considered “rude.”
If one’s budget cannot include caviar, consider black lumpfish or salmon roe. It looks like caviar but is much cheaper. Hard-boiled eggs are a classic pairing with caviar. Their bland foundation allows the caviar to be the star of the dish. Here are a few helpful hints when making deviled eggs.
Once the eggs are cooked, drain the hot water and replace with cold water several times. This helps stops the cooking process. While the eggs are warm, peel them. They will peel much easier if they are warm as opposed to being cold. Remove the warm egg yolks and place in a small bowl with your mayonnaise mixture. Warm egg yolks are much easier to break down and become lump free than cold ones.
If you own a hand-held immersion blender, this is the time to use it. It will puree the egg yolk filling in one to two minutes with no lumps. A hand-held blender is perfectly acceptable but takes a lot more time.
Piping the yolk filling onto the egg whites adds beautification to the dish. This is why it is so important to make sure the filling is lump free. Otherwise, they will clog your piping tip.
Freeze the egg yolk filling for 20 minutes before piping. This gives your piping a more defined look.
The following deviled egg recipe is easy to make and so delicious!
8 large eggs 1/3 cup good quality mayonnaise 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard 1 teaspoon rice vinegar salt to taste caviar as a garnish
1. Bring a large pot of water (enough to cover the eggs by one inch) to a boil.
Reduce heat and carefully add eggs. Once the water reaches a hard simmer, simmer for 13 minutes.
2. Place the pot in the sink, drain hot water, and fill with cold water to stop the cooking process. You will have to refill with cold water a few times. Peel the eggs under cold water. Pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, combine egg yolks, mayonnaise, mustard, and vinegar and
blend with a hand-held immersion blender or hand-held mixer.
4. Place yolk filling in the freezer for 20 minutes.
5. Using your favorite piping tip, fill egg whites with egg yolk mixture and top with caviar.
* Option: Serve half of the deviled eggs plain and the other half garnished with caviar.
Secret Ingredient – Desire
The starting point of all achievement is desire.
-Napoleon Hill
By Steve Green
How lazy my teens are on holiday break
One big snowfall a winter
Watching demo contractors at work
Intense high school sports games
When all the bills are paid
A fast computer
Hearing kids giggling
A phone with a super camera
An easy Ravens win
Randomly bumping into an old friend
Being exhausted Christmas night
With Bunk Mann
The Town of Ocean City was incorporated by the Maryland General Assembly on April 12, 1880. It included the land between N. Division Street and S. Division Street plus property on the south side including the vicinity of today’s Inlet. The Inlet did not exist at this time; it would be created during a storm in August 1933. Ocean City had fewer than 100 year-round residents in those days, most of whom were employees of the railroad or the U.S. Life Saving Service. Tourism was seasonal and in its infancy.
The first permanent Boardwalk was constructed in 1885 on pilings above the beach. A temporary one had existed earlier but was built in sections that lay directly on the sand. It could be picked up and stored during storms and over the winter. In 1892, the Sinepuxent Beach Company extended the Boardwalk to a mile in length, installed electric power and dug a well for the town’s water supply.
The infrastructure was being assembled that would take Ocean City into the 20th Century.
To purchase one of Bunk Mann’s books, click over to www.vanishingoc.com.
File photo
Festivities include craft beer from 14 vendors, live music, pairing menu, more
(Jan. 3, 2025) The ultimate craft beer festival, Love on Tap, is quickly approaching and will take place on Saturday, Feb. 22, from 2-5 p.m. at Seacrets.
Attendees can enjoy craft beer from over 14 local breweries, live music, and take home a commemorative pint glass. The event is organized by the producers of Shore Craft Beer Fest.
General admission tickets are available for $40, while VIP tickets are priced at $65. VIP tickets include an additional hour of access (starting at 1 p.m.) and an event t-shirt. A designated driver rate of $10 is being offered. Tickets are available at shoercraftbeerfest.com.
In celebration of the 150th Anniversary of Ocean City, the Town of Ocean City is sponsoring this year’s Love on Tap, and Seacrets will participate by giving away 150 Seacrets specialty Koozies to the first 150 guests in attendance.
“We are excited to partner with
Love on Tap to help celebrate Ocean City’s 150th Anniversary,” said Tom Perlozzo, director of tourism and business development. “This event embodies the fun, laidback spirit of our beach town, and we’re proud to include it as part of our anniversary celebrations. With craft beer, great
music, and a vibrant atmosphere, Love on Tap showcases so many of the reasons why Ocean City is truly Somewhere to Smile About!”
A special food pairing menu is being prepared by Seacrets with food purchased separately. Live music will be offered throughout the event.
Attendees are encouraged to mark their calendars and purchase tickets early to take advantage of the limitedtime discount. Love on Tap is the perfect event to indulge in the rich flavors of local craft beers, enjoy live music and connect with fellow beer enthusiasts.
On Saturday, Dec. 7, the annual Holiday Bazaar was held in Worcester Preparatory School’s Brent Thompson Field House. Guests gathered at this festive family affair to officially kick off the holiday season. There were plenty of activities, including tasty treats provided by Rudolph’s Feed Bag Lunch Café, homemade desserts at the Bakery, beverages at the Coffee & Cocoa stand, handmade items from local vendors, a cookie decorating class by Flamingo Road, story time with Santa and Head of Lower School Dr. Timmons, the ever-popular basket ticket auction, and so much more. Above left, WPS students and guests of this year’s Holiday Bazaar enjoyed quality time with Santa while he read aloud “The Night Before Christmas.” Above right, Brittingham Farms owner and WPS parent Laura Brittingham is pictured with her husband Jonathan and daughter, third grader Lilly.
SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH
During the 2024 holiday season, Ocean City Elementary School students donated a truckload of non-perishable food items to the Diakonia food pantry. Students were encouraged to think about what would be nourishing and comforting for people in need and then to make a sacrifice to purchase these items. Students gave up a treat at the grocery store or an ice cream at lunchtime. Children did extra chores and used the money to buy for others. Families sacrificed dinner out at a restaurant and instead shopped for a family in need. Members of the third grade Gentlemen’s Club spearheaded the food drive, collecting food items each week and organizing it for delivery. It is truly the season of giving at OCES.
SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH CHURCH
Members of the Worcester County Garden Club gathered last month to decorate Historic St. Martin’s Church in Showell for the holidays. Historic Preservation Chair Jan Owens coordinates the event each year. The club welcomes new members to join the club, which is a member of the Federated Garden Clubs of Maryland, Inc. Individuals interested in learning more about the Worcester County Garden Club can contact the membership chair at WorCtyGardenClub@gmail.com. Pictured, from left, are Cheryl Middleton, Anna Schumann, Karen Trigger, Rebecca Galyon, Pat Prince, Martha Bennett, Jan Owens, Jan King, Sue Ann Hudson, Patsy Bell and Joan LaHayne.
Students in Ms. Foreman’s third grade class at Ocean City Elementary recently concluded a reading unit on “The Sea”. As a culminating task, students created Didactic Wall Panels, like those found in aquariums to provide information about the exhibits. Students had the opportunity to show off their artistic and paragraph writing skills to illustrate a shark and explain how scientists study them. Pictured, from left, are Bella Falco, Liza Mills, Hondina Santamaria Barrueta and Skylar Truitt.
Mrs. Kristick’s PreK-4 class at Ocean City Elementary School built elf traps after reading the story, How to Catch an Elf. Pictured are Kai Poliakovskyi, Mavric Ewell, Eliza Ferguson, Carter Mc Carthy, Eliana Bell and Charlotte Flynn.
Ocean City Elementary School fourth graders participated in their annual tradition of constructing gingerbread houses with their family members during American Education Week. Students invited parents and grandparents to assist as they applied engineering and geometry in the creation of their sweet and symmetrical masterpieces. Pictured are students from Ms. Macrides' class and their families.
The Art League of Ocean City's annual Holiday and Awards Luncheon was held this year at Saltwater 75 on Dec. 12. The Art League of Ocean City honored their dedicated volunteers, above left, with special recognition at the Art League's holiday luncheon at Saltwater 75 on Dec. 12. Above right, the Art League of Ocean City presented its annual "heART Award" to Kathryn Redden, who is pictured with Executive Director Rina Thaler. The heART Award is given annually to an individual who has made a significant impact on the arts in the community. At left, the Art League of Ocean City presented its annual SHEro Award to Niki Runge, owner of Chesapeake Music Therapy, at their holiday luncheon. She is pictured with artist Deb Rolig. The SHEro Award honors a woman who exemplifies the profound impact the arts can have on society.
Below left, Thaler presented a special award designed by Berlin artist Jeffrey Auxer to outgoing President John Sisson honoring his six years of service and his continuing support of the arts in Ocean City. Bottom, below right, Mayor Rick Meehan presented Sisson with an official proclamation from the Town of Ocean City recognizing his service.
The Art League of Ocean City's First Friday opening art reception was held at the Ocean City Center for the Arts on Dec. 6. Winning first place in the Annual Members Juried Show was Kim Klabe, pictured with her work.
Barbara Buford holds one of her pieces in her studio during last month’s First Friday reception.
Worcester County Government (WCG) is accepting grant applications from area non-profit agencies now through Tuesday, January 28, 2025.
Applications are available to download as a PDF at www.co.worcester.md.us. Once there, the link to the Non-Profit Grant Application can be found under “Important Links” on the right-hand side of the web page.
Completed grant applications should be mailed to the following address: Worcester County Government, One West Market Street, Room 1103, Snow Hill, Md. 21863, Attention: Senior Budget Accountant Dhara Patel
Applications received after the deadline will not be considered, and applying for a non-profit grant is not a guarantee of funding approval from WCG. Grant awards will be announced by mail following the adoption of the FY26 WCG Operating Budget in June 2025.
Worcester County Commissioner Chip Bertino was one of 16 county elected officials from across Maryland to be installed on Dec. 12 to the board of the Maryland Association of Counties.
The installation by Gov. Wes Moore was part of the association’s winter conference in Cambridge.
“The opportunity to serve at this level is a tremendous honor,” Bertino said. “It’s humbling to have earned the confidence of my colleagues across the state to fill this position. I look forward to representing and advocating for Worcester County and MACo members with government officials and leaders throughout the state.”
Bertino is the first Worcester County representative to serve on the board since former Commissioner Judy Boggs in 2013. Former board members from Worcester County also include Joseph G. Harrison (1959), Ray F. Redden (1969), K. Bennett Bozman (1990), and Jeanne Lynch (in the 1990s).
Board members are selected by the MACo membership. Board members serve the interests of the association, oversee its management and strategic direction, and maintain and develop relationships with other parties with whom MACo and Maryland counties regularly interact. The board works with the MACo Legislative Committee, which sets policy positions for the association and directs its legislative advocacy priorities.
“With Commissioner Bertino serving on the MACo Board of Directors, Worcester County will have more visibility and input on issues that impact our county,” Commissioner President Ted Elder said. “We could not be more
supportive of his appointment to this vital board.”
Bertino, who was elected as a county commissioner in 2014 to represent the Northern District (District 5), is serving his fourth term in office. In addition to the board of directors, Bertino has also been serving on the MACo Legislative Committee since 2019.
The committee meets weekly during each Maryland General Assembly session to determine which legislative positions to take. The committee votes on every bill that they have taken a position on. This lets state legislators know that the committee has the consensus of all 23 Maryland counties and Baltimore City when they take a position.
“Commissioner Bertino brings two years of experience as president of the Worcester County Commissioners and five years on the MACo Legislative Committee, where he and I serve together,” Commissioner Jim Bunting said. “His experience in both of these areas will be invaluable as he steps into his new role on the board of directors. He is knowledgeable, experienced, and distinctly able to evaluate all of the issues surrounding legislative issues. This makes him ideally suited to advocate concerning matters that impact not only the three Lower Eastern Shore counties, but all Maryland counties.”
The Solid Waste Division of Worcester County Public Works is hosting its annual collection of Christmas trees December 26, 2024 through January 31, 2025. Area residents can drop off Christmas trees at the Central Landfill in Newark and the Berlin, Pocomoke, and Snow Hill Homeowners Convenience Centers at no cost.
Businesses and organizations that sold trees will not be permitted to drop off trees at the convenience centers, but may take them to the Central Landfill where applicable tipping fees will be assessed.
The trees will be ground into mulch for use at the Central Landfill. Remember, you can make a difference by recycling. For more info, contact Recycling Manager Bob Keenan at 410-632-3177, ext. 2405.
The Town of Berlin and Berlin Main Street announced the grant award of $50,000 to continue the Berlin Commercial Façade Grant Program. This grant program provides matching funds to downtown property and business owners to improve the exterior of their buildings, enhance the overall
streetscape, and attract new customers.
The grants will cover up to 50% of the total project cost, with a maximum award of $10,000. The funds can be used for a variety of improvements, such as painting, signage, lighting, awnings, etc.
"The Town of Berlin is incredibly grateful to receive this continued support. The facade grant program has been instrumental in restoring our downtown shopping district, making it more vibrant and attractive for both residents and visitors,” said Mayor Zack Tyndall. “We encourage our small businesses to reach out to our Economic and Community Development team to start the conversation about their 2025 facade improvement projects. Together, we can continue to enhance the beauty and appeal of Berlin."
"The Downtown Commercial Façade Grant Program is an essential tool in supporting the continued growth and development of our downtown district," said Ivy Wells, director of economic and community development, "We are excited to see the applications next year and we look forward to seeing the continued historic preservation and beautification of our downtown Main Street Historic District."
Applications for the Berlin Façade Grant will be available in January.
Two things are evident as the public learns the details of the tram accident on the Boardwalk last August that claimed the life of a two-year-old child: It makes no difference who among the Ocean City government’s employees and elected officials might be at fault. It is equally pointless to debate whether Atlantic Avenue/Boardwalk is, in the legal sense, a road or a walkway.
What matters is the tragedy of Aug. 20 is irreversible and steps must be taken to ensure that nothing like it happens again.
In-house finger-pointing prompted by the Ocean City Police Department’s investigative findings is inevitable, as the conversation veers into whether tram safety concerns were mentioned or heard prior to the incident taking place. But that, too, is beside the point.
Similarly, the police department’s determination that the Boardwalk is a platted street and subject to all motor vehicle laws has no bearing on what happened or why.
It remains that the driver of the Jeep pulling the tram cars didn’t see the child dart in front of him, possibly because of the poor visibility afforded by the Jeep. But even that assumes he could have stopped in time with the tram’s inadequate brakes had his field of vision been better.
Whether the Boardwalk is Atlantic Avenue or was built as a walkway over Atlantic Avenue in 1902 is a moot point. The Jeep was towing more than it should have been, regardless of where it was operating.
These discussions are distractions when only one inescapable conclusion remains: Trams should never ride the boards again. Ever.
Moreover, given the Boardwalk’s heavy foot traffic, it could be time to revert completely to its intended purpose and eliminate from the walkway all motorized vehicles, including trams of any configuration.
People won’t be happy, but, like or not, they will be safer.
I gave up making predictions going into the new year long ago, just as I can’t remember when I last made a New Year’s resolution ... not one that I kept, anyway.
NEWS
EDITOR STEWART DOBSON; EXECUTIVE EDITOR STEVE GREEN
ASSOCIATE EDITOR BETHANY HOOPER
STAFF WRITERS TARA FISCHER, BRIAN SHANE
Contact News Room: editor@oceancitytoday.net SALES
ACCOUNT MANAGERS MARY COOPER, TERRI FRENCH, RENEE KELLY
CLASSIFIEDS/LEGALS PAMELA GREEN
Contact Sales: sales@oceancitytoday.net PRODUCTION
ART DIRECTOR COLE GIBSON; SENIOR PAGE DESIGNER SUSAN PARKS
SENIOR AD DESIGNER KELLY BROWN ADMINISTRATION
PUBLISHER/CONTROLLER CHRISTINE BROWN
ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT GINI TUFTS web: octodaydispatch.com Facebook: facebook/mdcoastdispatch.com
Today-Dispatch is published Fridays by FLAG Publications, Inc. 11934 Ocean Gateway, Suite 6, Ocean City, Md. 21842 410-723-6397
copyright 2024
By Stewart Dobson
I’ve always viewed the latter as making a broken promise in advance just to get it out of the way.
Being fully aware at the outset that you’re kidding yourself is better than saying, “I would have succeeded if it weren’t for all the other character flaws that I also mistakenly resolved to deal with in the year ahead.”
Or “I would have succeeded if I cared, which, to my surprise, I do not.”
Besides, even if I were to pledge to improve myself in some way, no one would take me seriously.
I recall, for instance, swearing on my 50th birthday that the time had come for me to start going to the gym three times a week and getting myself back into fighting trim, all so I could reach my goal of rollerblading 4 miles to work by the time I turned 51.
A summary version of the response I received at home upon making this announcement is, “Ha-ha-ha-ha-ha-hee-hoo-can’tbreathe-stop it-stop-it-ha-ha-hoooooo, etc.”
Obviously, I would have succeeded were it not for this level of ridicule.
As for predictions, I don’t do them for the simple reason that it would ruin the surprise. For instance, when I predicted several years ago that I would touch a vacuum cleaner 9.5 times in the year ahead, I didn’t
say a word about it, because making an announcement to that effect would have robbed this series of events of their impact.
Besides, it also would have committed me to this task, thus eliminating any possibility of me being wrong.
This is not to say that I don’t have premonitions about things that will occur, such as the late December dream in 2022 that the year ahead would see me falling asleep in the chair during 247 prime time television shows, 23 Saturday afternoon B movies, several hours of QVC because my remote control finger hit the wrong button, and nine baseball games, including one when the dogs spent an afternoon eating errant Cheetos off my shirt.
But did I tell anyone this would happen? No.
That would have killed the wonder of it all and deprived a certain someone of the pleasure of saying 181 times, “Well, I see Mr. Excitement has returned to the living” while on the other 98 times she simply observed, “Ah, the beast awakes!”
I suppose I should resolve to do better in that regard and stay awake at least past the Jeopardy jingle as many times as possible.
In fact, I’m going to make that my publicly declared New Year’s broken promise of 2025 because of a premonition I had just this week.
To summarize this unexpected vision, it involved me making someone here at home laugh hysterically, as in, “Ha-ha-ha-ha-hahee-hoo-can’t-breathe-stop it-stop-it ...”
As a prediction, I predict this one will come true. On the other hand, my visions are limited to actual events, and don’t necessarily pick up on sarcasm.
By Steve Green
In this first issue of 2025, it’s tradition in this space to offer some predictions for what will make news in the weeks and months ahead.
•The proposed offshore wind farm spends much of 2025 mired in uncertainty. Recent local decisions by Worcester and Sussex counties spark court filings, and Ocean City remains committed to its legal fight against the feds. President Trump issues an Executive Order in late January to suspend all federal agency with offshore wind. While wind remains in the headlines, the year will end with no resolution one way or the other on the project.
•A large settlement deal will be reached out of court between Ocean City and an Eastern Shore family after the August 2024 fatality on the Boardwalk. The 2025 summer will come and go without the tram service, and Ocean City will make it official the tram service will not return in the future.
•Despite enabling legislation passing last year to allow Worcester County to increase its room tax rate, no such change will take place this year for unknown reasons. It could be due to Ocean City understanding all seven commissioners have to support the move unanimously. Since the commissioners’ vote to ask for enabling legislation had two officials in opposition, it’s unlikely all seven commissioners will support the move even though it would bring new tax revenue to the county.
•The popularity of the large-scale music festivals will continue this year with a new addition planned for the special event calendar in 2026. A second spring music festival from C3 will be announced toward the end of this year. The festival will take place the weekend after the Boardwalk Rock event, which sees sluggish ticket sales in its first year initially but does sell out. The sold-out factor is a prediction, too, since the rock music event has not hit the mark yet.
•A plea deal will be reached with the motorist who ran over 16year-old Tyler Walsh last September in Ocean City and fled the scene. The Pennsylvania man will be sentenced to two years in prison for failing to remain at the scene of an accident involving bodily injury.
•Ocean Pines will announce a change with its food and beverage operations vendor this year.
•A national search process will take place for the next superintendent of Worcester County Public Schools with Lou Taylor’s contract expiring this summer. An internal candidate will ultimately be tapped.
•Even more significant changes will be made to Winterfest of Lights in Ocean City as competition from other attractions continues to ramp up.
•After not being able to come to an agreed price with the owners of the two commercial harbor properties, Worcester County will embark on eminent domain proceedings to stop US Wind’s efforts.
•Though short of what was approved by the school board, the Worcester County Commissioners will go far beyond the Maintenance of Effort level in its budget, funding all but $1 million of the Board of Education’s proposed budget.
•Massive increases in spending will be seen in Ocean City for the police department, due to the need to increase starting pay to remain competitive with other area agencies as well as robust hiring to account for the loss of the seasonal cop program.
•Ocean City will hire an external candidate for its next police chief after a search process. The candidate will be from Maryland.
•The year will come and go without any major infrastructure work on Baltimore Avenue in Ocean City, but the timeline will be announced for fall of 2026 for roadwork to begin. The city received $20 million in federal grants in 2024 to help with the expenses of the massive overhaul.
•The Ocean City Council will approve an ordinance creating a Business Investment District with an eye on funding a sports complex.
•Ocean City Recreation and Parks Director Susan Petito will announce her retirement with a long-time supervisor promoted to the post.
•Ocean City Fire Chief Richie Bowers will announce his retirement after the summer season, resulting in a search process.
•It will be announced the post office on 5th Street in Ocean City will not renew its lease with the city, opting instead for a new satellite branch further downtown. The former post office building will be razed with the city considering more parking.
•The merger between AGH and TidalHealth will be finalized in the spring.
•The area in Berlin around the N. Main Street and Route 50 intersection will be transformed with construction beginning around the same time on the new Hebron Savings Bank and the new Wawa across the street.
•As part of the city’s year-long 150th anniversary, Ocean City will complete a major rebranding campaign by the spring, featuring yellow and blue signage with the smile logo prevalent all around.
•The Chiefs will make it three in a row, defeating the Lions in the Super Bowl in February.
(The following letter was addressed to Snow Hill Mayor Janet Simpson with a copy forwarded to this publication.)
I am respectfully requesting that an emergency meeting of the Snow Hill Mayor and Council be convened at the earliest possible opportunity to address the critical topics outlined below.
Should this emergency meeting request be denied, I kindly ask that, in accordance with Section 7: Meetings of Council in the Snow Hill Town Charter, a special meeting of the Mayor and Council be scheduled to discuss these issues. Please advise me of the proper protocol to follow in the event of a denial of my Emergency Meeting request.
This request has become necessary because none of the agenda items I have submitted for discussion have been placed on the agenda since I joined the Council in June of this year.
Topics for discussion:
1.The unilateral decision to relocate the Snow Hill Town Meeting to a specific location without prior discussion or consent of the Town Council.
2.Establishing a business discussion relationship with the Snow Hill Chamber of Commerce to foster opportunities and development for Black and minority-owned businesses in Snow Hill.
3.Creating a public statement or decree to ensure that discussions with the Snow Hill Chamber of Commerce are explicitly non-partisan and free from political influence.
4.Developing a unified strategy for the 2025 Comprehensive Plan in collaboration with the Worcester County Commissioners.
5.Reviewing the Snow Hill Revitalization Plan, including its conclusions and recommendations.
6.Addressing concerns regarding potential gentrification as identified in the Snow Hill Revitalization Plan.
7.Examining the conduct and tone of public Council meetings, with a focus on addressing instances of disrespectful behavior.
8.Councilperson Diana Walsh’s repeated dissemination of inaccurate information to the Town Council and the public.
9.The rejection by certain members, or a member, of the Snow Hill Town Council of the “Tri-County Mediation-Conflict Resolution Services” offered to the Town of Snow Hill.
10.Establishing a protocol to
promote decency, mutual respect, professionalism and transparency during Council debates and discussions.
11.Return to having a local Pastor open Council Meetings with a prayer.
Thank you for your attention to this urgent matter. I look forward to your timely response.
Edward S. Lee Snow Hill (The writer is a Snow Hill council person.)
Editor,
It was with great disappointment and sadness that I read the Caine Woods parking article in the December 13 edition of OC Today-Dispatch.
The fact that the city allowed 133 four-bedroom townhouses to squeeze into four blocks, and that the city and/or fire department gave the builders a variance on the required width between the rows of townhouses is bad enough. Now the city has turned a blind eye to the impending parking problem that will manifest itself this coming summer.
The article notes that the parking consultant said there is no problem currently. This is correct as only 1% of all the completed townhomes are occupied and many are still under construction.
With 133 four-bedroom townhouses fully occupied, conservatively say 3 vehicles per unit, that’s 532 vehicles that need parking. Although the townhouses have two-car garages (which would only account for 266 vehicles), the very narrow alleyways will likely inhibit people from parking in the garages. It will be a nightmare backing in and out of the garages and trying to navigate around any other vehicles, hence the issue and concern of these tenants and residents parking in the neighborhood.
I find it interesting that the parking consultant apparently didn’t take all this into consideration. So when the problem does become apparent and definitive, hopefully action will be taken. Waiting until there’s a fullfledged problem will make it much more difficult to change behavior versus addressing the issue now.
On a positive note, the city will monitor the situation and hopefully make a quick decision to implement a parking program for Caine Woods before the problem becomes a major issue.
Portrait moves from St. Paul Methodist to library branch, for prominent placement
By Tara Fischer Staff Writer
(Jan. 3, 2025) A portrait of gospel singer and Methodist minister the Rev. Charles Tindley, painted by Berlin artist Patrick Henry, is now on display at the Berlin library.
Known as the “Grandfather of Gospel Music,” Tindley was born in Berlin in 1851. According to the Salisbury University site, “Enduring Connections,” a project that explores the Delmarva Peninsula’s Black history, Tindley taught himself to read, pursued additional education, and later became the pastor of thousands of members at what is now known as the Tindley Temple United Methodist Church in Philadelphia.
Tindley wrote many hymns, including “I’ll Overcome Someday,” which inspired the later civil rights anthem, “We Shall Overcome.”
Materials at the Berlin library on loan from the Calvin B. Taylor House Museum say music played a significant role in Tindley’s sermons.
“Often, he would punctuate a point with a familiar hymn from camp meetings, gospel songs, fests, or prayer sessions,” the article said. “Occasionally, he would sing an unfamiliar tune and explain it as one he had written, and he would repeat these
until they were familiar.”
Tindley composed nearly 50 hymns during his lifetime, with his first published works debuting in 1905 in a collection entitled “Soul Echoes, No. 1.”
His second collection, “Soul Echoes, No. 2,” was released in 1909, “New Songs of Paradise” was published in 1916, and “New Songs of Paradise No. 4” in 1923. After Tindley died in 1933 in Philadelphia, his son published his remaining works, “New Songs of Paradise No.5” and “New Songs of Paradise No. 6” in 1934 and 1941, respectively.
A portrait of the minister created in the 1980s by Henry was unveiled at a brief ceremony on Monday, Dec. 16. Worcester County Library Board of Trustees President Jeff Smith said the portrait’s initial purpose was to be part of an effort to display paintings of historical Black figures to at libraries across the state.
But somehow, Smith said, Henry’s portrait of Tindley found its way to the St. Paul Methodist Church instead.
“When I heard this story, I called [Henry], and I said, ‘Is there any way we can get this in the library so that there could be the portrait as it was originally supposed to be hung? And he said ‘yes,’ so here we are today,” Smith said.
Worcester County Library System Director Jennifer Ranck said the portrait will be placed on the center’s first floor “so people can really see it.”
(Jan. 3, 2025) After 65 years of serving the community, Warren’s Restaurant is embarking on a new chapter.
The family-owned institution, a cornerstone of Fenwick Island since 1960, is now under the leadership of Caroline Wetzelberger and her family and will be rebranded as The Station. A familiar face to many, Wetzelberger began her journey at Warren’s at just 14 and is now poised to honor its legacy while infusing fresh energy and creativity.
“The Wetzelberger family shares our dedication to the values of quality and service that have made Warren’s a community staple for more than six decades,” said Scott Mumford, current owner of Warren’s, who, along with his wife Elise Mumford, has led the restaurant since 2002. “Like us when we first took over, Caroline started as an employee—beginning as a pantry girl and working her way up. We have great confidence in her and look forward to seeing her build on our legacy while bringing her own traditions to the business.”
Wetzelberger’s hospitality journey began as a teenager at Warren’s Station, where she discovered her passion for the industry. In 2018, she earned a degree in Hospitality Business Management from the University of Delaware, followed by a culinary de-
gree from the prestigious Accelerated Culinary Arts Program at the Culinary Institute of America in Napa Valley.
Her career took off at the Culinary Institute of America, where she started as a kitchen coordinator, assisting with public cooking classes. Through determination and mentorship, she quickly rose to become the youngest chef instructor at the institute, leading her own cooking classes and demonstrations for the public.
In 2020, Wetzelberger returned to her home state to become the executive chef at Stingray in Rehoboth with the Big Fish Restaurant Group. The following year, she played a key role in opening DiFebo’s Market as its director of operations. In May 2022, she was promoted to director of operations for DiFebo’s Restaurant Group, where she most recently oversaw the umbrella brand's culinary innovation and business strategy.
"I’ve always admired the way Scott and Elise led their team with respect and high standards, which inspired my own career path,” Wetzelberger shared. “They have been incredible mentors, and I’m excited to build on their legacy, adding new energy while staying true to what makes Warren’s so special.”
While Warren’s signature dishes
and renowned hospitality will remain, Caroline plans to bring new life to the menu and ambiance. “We’ll honor tradition while incorporating new twists on classic favorites,” she said.
“The restaurant’s interiors will also be updated to create a modern yet warm atmosphere that reflects its history.”
The Mumford family expressed full support for the transition.
“We’re proud to pass the torch to Caroline and the Wetzelberger family,” said Scott Mumford. “This is an evolution, not just a change of ownership, and we believe the restaurant is in excellent hands.”
Scott and Elise Mumford took over the family restaurant 22 years ago from Scott’s parents Jeff and Paula Mumford, who in 1971 purchased the restaurant from original owner Warren D. Johnson. In 1960, Warren Johnson opened the restaurant. Johnson was a turkey farmer who made turkey the restaurant’s specialty. The Mumfords expanded the restaurant in 1983 to accommodate a growing customer base, becoming Warren’s Station, a building redesigned to resemble a U.S. Lifesaving Station.
By Peter Ayers Wimbrow III Contributing Writer
This week, 80 years ago, American efforts to liberate the Philippine Island of Luzon began when an Allied Naval force, under command of Adm.
Jesse B. Oldendorf, began bombarding the landing beaches and environs on Lingayen Gulf.
With 42,457 square miles, Luzon is the world’s 15th largest island and the largest island in the Philippines’ archipelago. It is surrounded by the Luzon Sea on its west; the Philippine Sea on its east; and the Luzon Strait on the north. It is currently home to 48,520,000 people, making it the 4th most populated island in the world.
Three days after the commencement of the naval bombardment, on Jan. 9, 1945, soldiers from the U.S. Sixth Army, commanded by Walter Krueger, began landing on the beaches on Lingayen Gulf. By the end of the day, 68,000 American soldiers were ashore.
All told, 203,608 soldiers landed on the beaches at Lingayen Gulf. One of those soldiers landing on the beach at Lingayen Gulf was Ocean City resident Private First Class Luther (“Luke”) J. Thornton, of the 33rd Infantry Division. He was already a recipient of the Purple Heart, for wounds he had received in the invasion of the Island of Morotai, in the Netherlands East Indies.
For his heroism and leadership on the Luzon beach he was awarded the Silver Star and promoted to sergeant. He was later promoted to staff sergeant and was awarded a second Silver Star.
The Philippines, and, in particular, Luzon, were defended by the Japanese Fourteenth Area Army, under the command of Gen. Tomoyuki Yamashita. On Feb. 15, 1942, Gen. Yamashita, at the head of the 30,000-man, Twenty-Fifth Imperial
Continued on Page 59
Japanese Army, had captured the British stronghold of Singapore and its 130,000-man garrison, which earned him the sobriquet, “Tiger of Malaya.”
Gen. Yamashita’s forces defending the Philippines numbered 262,000. He divided them into three groups: the Show Boat Group, numbering 152,000, was under his personal command, in Northern Luzon; the Kembu Group, numbering 30,000, under the command of Lt. Gen. Rikichi Tsukada, defended Bataan and the Western Shores; the Shimbu Group, renamed Forty-first Army, on March 6, 1945, under the command of Shizuo Yokoyama, was responsible for the defense of Southern Luzon, which included the capital of Manila.
After landing, XIV Corps, commanded by Gen. Oscar Griswold, headed south, toward the Philippine capital, Manila. More troops were landed, on Jan. 15, 1945, 45 miles southwest of Manila. Gen. Griswold’s XIV Corps reached Clark Air Base on Jan. 23, and finally secured it a week later.
Manila Bay, was not cleared of the enemy until April 13, when U.S. forces incinerated them.
In the meantime, units of the 11th Airborne Division, commanded by Maj. Gen. Joseph M. Swing, liberated the prison camp at Los Baños in the Province of Laguna on Feb. 23, 1945. Those liberated included Laura Cobb and 11 other nurses captured upon the surrender of Bataan and Corregidor, and Frank Buckles, who would
trolled Philippine Republic, whose president was José P. Laurel y Garcia, and which declared war on the United States on Sept. 23, 1944.
The 33rd Infantry Division, from Illinois, commanded by Maj. Gen. Percy W. Clarkson, and the 37th Infantry Division, from Ohio (The Buckeyes), commanded by Maj. Gen. Robert S. Beightler, together with Filipino units, began advancing on the city in late February. By late March, the city was within range of American artillery.
Gen. Yamashita withdrew most of his forces by mid-April, relocating his headquarters to Bambang, in the province of Nueva Vizcaya, leaving Maj. Gen. Noakata Utsunomiya in charge. On April 22, he, too, left town and the Americans entered the city on April 24.
2,090 wounded and 685 killed, one of which was its assistant division commander, Brig. Gen. James Leo Dalton, II. The pass was renamed Dalton Pass.
At the same time that Gen. Mullins’ 25th Division was taking Balete Pass, the 32nd Division, a National guard unit from Michigan and Wisconsin, commanded by Maj. Gen. William H. Gill, was taking the Salacsac Pass, on the Villa Verde Trail. The pass was defended by the Japanese 2nd Tank Division, commanded by Gen. Yoshiharu Iwanaka, which division was also destroyed. Gen. Gill’s 32nd Division suffered 825 killed and 2,160 wounded.
become the last surviving American WWI veteran, finally passing on Feb. 11, 2011, at the age of 110.
Next week: Raul Wallenberg 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 Continued from Page 58
The First Cavalry Division, commanded by Maj. Gen. Vernon D. Mudge, landed at San Fabian, on Lingayen Gulf, on Jan. 27. Four days later, Gen. MacArthur ordered Gen. Mudge to, “Get to Manila! Free the internees at Santo Tomás. Take Malacanang Palace and the Legislative Building.”
The Japanese had converted the 300-year-old University of Santo Tomás into an internment camp holding about 4,000 people, over half of whom were Americans. MacArthur, having spent decades there, was intimately familiar with the city. Gen. Mudge’s men reached Santo Tomás on Feb. 3 and liberated the internees, including 60 Army nurses.
Eighth Army, commanded by Robert L. Eichelberger, landed at Nasugbu, in Batangas Province, on Jan. 31. This date is still celebrated every year as Liberation Day in Batangas Province.
By now, Gen. Yamashita, not wanting to get bogged down in urban warfare defending Manila, nor wanting the responsibility of feeding and caring for its 1,000,000 inhabitants, withdrew his soldiers and declared Manila an “Open City.”
He was, in effect, saying that it would not be defended. However, as soon as his soldiers left, Rear Adm. Iwabuchi Sanji, commander 31st Naval Special Base Force, announced that he, and the limited forces under his command, would defend the city to the last. Those forces included 12,500 marines and sailors and 4,500 Army personnel, commanded by Col. Katsuzo Noguchi.
The city was finally liberated on March 4, after much death and destruction. The admiral had committed suicide on Feb. 26. Fort Drum, in
The city of Baguio, which, in 1939 had a population of 24,000, and currently has a population of 320,000, served as Gen. Yamashita’s headquarters, and from December 1944, as the capital of the Japanese con-
The 25th Infantry Division, from Hawaii, commanded by Maj. Gen. Charles L. Mullins, took the Balete Pass, which was being defended by the Japanese 10th Division, commanded by Lt. Gen. Yasuyuki Okamoto. The pass connects the provinces of Nueva Ecija and Nueva Viscaya, in central Luzon. The pass is the gateway to the Cagayan Valley, which is the largest region in the Philippines.
Gen. Okamoto’s division was destroyed in the battle, losing 7,750. The American division suffered
Gen. Yamashita surrendered the remnants of his army — some 50,000 soldiers — at Kiangan in Ifugao Province, on Sept. 2, 1945, in a formal ceremony at Baguio. Even then, because of communication difficulties, several Japanese continued the struggle, not realizing that their country had surrendered.
$1,595.
LOUIE JOSEPH PAGLIERANI
Ocean Pines
Louie Joseph Paglierani, born on June 16, 1937, in Garfield Memorial Hospital in Washington DC passed away at Stansell House on Dec. 22, 2024. He was the oldest child of Pat Paglierani and Mollie Banks Paglierani. He is predeceased by his wife, Beatrice Paglierani and both parents.
Louie moved to San Franciso, California with his family and graduated from South San Francisco High School in 1956 where he met his wife Beatrice. He graduated from City College of San Francisco on January 31, 1958 with a degree in Criminology. He became a
police officer of the County of San Mateo in California in September of 1958.
Louie took a leave of absence from the police force for a summer, to help his parents run a boarding house in Ocean City, MD. During that summer he realized the potential that Ocean City had. This started his career in Ocean City. He built The Sun Tan Motel, The Capri, and the Inn Town all along Baltimore Avenue during the following years. Over the following decades, Louie diversified his interests into shop-
ping centers, condos and single-family homes and his contracting business flourished. He at one point owned and operated a restaurant and a successful used car business. Louie even dabbled in racehorses and had quite a winner in a horse name Powerful Mist. He was ever the consummate entrepreneur. Business was his life.
He is survived by his devoted son Dino Paglierani; his daughter, Dina Paglierani; his brother Gary Paglierani of Fresno, Calif.; and his nephew Joey Paglierani along with his wife Brittany and their two children, Troy and Grant of Ione, Calif. Louie also had many uncles, aunts and cousins along the East-
ern Shore through his mother’s family, The Banks of Salisbury.
Mr. Paglierani made many younger friends later in his life and could even be considered a mentor to some. Along with them, was a small group of life-long friends including Jac and Pam Stanton who were ever present in the last days of his life.
A funeral service will be held Saturday, January 4, 2024 at 2 p.m. at Bounds Funeral Home on East Main Street in Salisbury where friends may visit from 1-2 p.m. Entombment will be private. Visit www.boundsfuneralhome.com to share stories and memories with the family.
This year’s Maryland’s Governor’s Challenge Basketball Tournament brought a record 140 high school teams from around the country and Canada to the Civic Center in Salisbury for five days of hard-fought competition last week.
Stephen Decatur High School’s boys basketball team competed, losing two competitive games to regional teams.
Founded by Wicomico High School head basketball coach Butch Waller back in 1981 with four teams, the Holiday Classic now boasts record, invited teams and fans.
Waller’s Holiday Classic quickly became more than one man could handle. So, he joined forces with the local Lions Club and the Holiday Classic Basketball Tournament became the Lions of Salisbury Holiday Classic.
Using the Lions Club model for success, the tournament now boasts over 140 teams and requires five days to run. The program includes two All-Star Nights and a Slam Dunk Contest. This year’s tournament was another year of great basketball.
Stephen Decatur Head Coach BJ Johnson said at the beginning of the game against Baltimore City College,
“The most important thing right know is that we play well together and we come out with a W.”
Seahawk Ricardo Copes said he was ready to win. In preparation he, “Woke up this morning, ate a good breakfast and worked out a little bit then came out to play.”
Last year the Seahawks beat Dover 53-52. This year was a little more challenging. Stephen Decatur lost to Dover in the first round, 59-54, and in the second round lost to Baltimore City College, 66-55.
Davin Chandler scored 20 of the 55 with two three pointers and four of six free throws. He got a little help from Noah Tucker, who scored 12 more. Eight more came from
Jonathan Purnell. The team battled hard but Baltimore City College came out of the box with 22 in the first quarter setting the stage for the night with a score of 22 to the Seahawks’ 14. Baltimore hit hard in the second quarter with 18 to the Seahawks’ 10. The tide changed and the third brought 16 each. In the fourth quarter the Seahawks soared to 15-10 but, time ran out with the final score 5566.
Johnson said, “We played hard and they didn’t stop. I liked the fact that our kids keep fighting. We got a lot of good things out of the tournament.”
Decatur’s record was 4-2 on the season as of Monday.
SINGLE
