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— Page 6
10, 2025
FAMILY OUTING
Assessments go (way) up
Owners of residential properties in Tax Group 1 — Berlin, Ocean Pines, Bishopville and everything between — see an average increase of 30% in their assessments over 2022.— PAGE 20
for more photos.
Dems, GOP members face state’s big budget shortfall. Local impacts.— PAGE 16
ORTT OUT, TOUCH OF ITALY WINS FIVE-YEAR PINES FOOD AND BEVERAGE DEAL — PAGE 6
Three family members take a stroll on an empty Boardwalk during Monday’s snowstorm, although it appears that one of them likes to run ahead. See pages 32-33
Study recommends smaller police force in Ocean City
By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor
(Jan. 10, 2025) While acknowledging that some operational changes were needed, a recent manpower study conducted by the Center for Public Safety Management (CPSM) did not recommend that the Ocean City Police Department increase its number of sworn officers.
However, Interim Police Chief Michael Colbert told the Mayor and Council on Wednesday that the department still stood by the city’s plan to increase total manpower to 125 sworn officers this year, arguing that the report failed to consider the city’s “unique policing environment” when making the recommendation to cap that number at 118.
“We feel that the CPSM manpower recommendation did not fully account for Ocean City’s unique environment, even though they talked about our unique demands,” he said. “They took this into account, but not to a degree that we believe was warranted. We continue to see rising demand for police services during the shoulder seasons, and OCPD does not fully agree and believes maintaining the July 2024 manpower increase of 125 sworn officers is critical to maintaining quality service for the town and for the citizens of Ocean City.”
In recent weeks, the Town of Ocean City received the 202-page study, which analyzed all aspects of the police department’s operations, including staffing, workload and level of crime. The study
also listed 108 recommendations, which ranged from improving internal communications and work-life balance to civilianizing certain positions currently filled by sworn officers.
“They felt that we should get better at creating a career track for professional civilian staff,” he explained. “So when they talk about professional staff, they talk about civilians that work for the department.”
Only one recommendation addressed manpower, Colbert said. He said the agency recommended 118 officers.
“They knew we had 120,” he said. “They didn’t recommend a reduction. What they did is they recommended two fewer officers assigned to the patrol division … They were specifically geared toward patrol. So at the time we had 88 sworn officers on patrol, and they recommended fewer.”
When asked if the study made a manpower recommendation for public safety officers, Colbert said it did not. However, he noted the study pointed out the importance of the program, which will bolster the department’s numbers this summer. He said the department’s goal is to employ 70 public safety officers this year.
“They encouraged us to continue with that program,” he said.
With the study now complete, Colbert told council members this week that the department would review and prioritize the study’s recommendations and develop an implementation strategy.
Revenue plummets for north OC beach stand franchises
By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor
(Jan. 10, 2025) Officials say revenue from a recent beach equipment rental franchise auction declined.
On Wednesday, the Ocean City Council voted to award contracts for north-end beach equipment stand parcels to six successful bidders. City Clerk Diana Chavis reported that two of the available parcels received no bids, and that north-end revenues declined by 24 percent from the prior auction.
“But overall, the franchise sees a 3.76 percent reduction. It’s at $1.4 million,” she said.
Ocean City franchises 70 beach equipment parcels in three sections –south end, mid beach and north end.
Each year, one of the three sections is auctioned off, with the highest qualified bidder receiving a three-year contract to rent umbrellas, chairs and cabanas on the beach. The city’s code also provides one option for first-term contract renewals at an annual fee 10 percent greater than the initial term.
This year, operators of two north-end
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parcels exercised their option to renew their first-year contracts. In December, the remaining 16 parcels were auctioned off to the highest bidder. Two mid-beach parcels with no bids last year were also included in this year’s bidding process, the city reported, as well as two southend parcels that were surrendered upon the operator’s move to Florida.
Chavis reported that three of 20 available parcels received no bids during last month’s auction. When the city received inquiries about those parcels, a sealed bid process commenced, and once sealed bid was received.
In total, 18 of the parcels were auctioned off to the highest bidder. This year’s auction resulted in revenues of $169,815, or $53,755 less than the previous north-end auction.
After a brief discussion, the council this week voted 5-0, with Councilwoman Carol Proctor absent and Council President Matt James abstaining, to award the parcels to the successful bidders, and to collect the remaining $23,300 balance from the operator of the two south-end parcels.
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Appellate court supports resort BZA finding
Condo owners fight against variances allowing elevator at neighbor’s townhouse
By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor
(Jan. 10, 2025) A legal battle over a proposed elevator shaft at an oceanfront townhome in Ocean City concluded last week with the state’s appellate court upholding a Worcester County Circuit Court decision.
In June 2023, Surfside 84 condominium owners Ann Zang and Matthew Lubart went to court to challenge an Ocean City Board of Zoning Appeals decision that sided with neighboring townhome owners Stephen and Deborah Peroutka, who gained variances to construct an elevator at their unit.
Last Tuesday, the Appellate Court of Maryland upheld the local court’s judgment, which denied Zang and Lubart’s petition to reverse the board’s decision.
“As we have already concluded, there was substantial evidence before the Board to support a conclusion that Mr. Peroutka’s disability prevented him from safely using the stairs, and that, without an elevator, he would be unable to access the living floors of the Townhouse,” the Dec. 31 opinion reads. “In addition, it is evident that any benefit afforded by the grant of the variances to allow for the construction of an elevator is related to Mr. Peroutka’s disability. Therefore, the Board correctly concluded that the variances were a necessary accommodation.”
In September 2021, the Peroutkas applied for a variance with the city’s
board of zoning appeals to construct an elevator within the side setback of their four-story townhome, located between 84th and 85th streets.
The family sought to install an elevator for Stephen Peroutka, who had been diagnosed with medical conditions that affected his ability to walk and climb stairs.
However, the Surfside 84 Condominium Association objected to the variance request, arguing the elevator shaft would obstruct the ocean views of condo units located closest to the family’s townhome.
The board denied the request for the variance. But after the mandatory four-month waiting period expired, the Peroutkas reapplied for the variances, but did so as a request for accommodations under the Americans with Disabilities Act.
Following a May 12, 2022 public hearing, during which representatives for both the applicant and the neighboring condominium association made their cases, the appeals board voted unanimously to grant the requested variances “as a reasonable and necessary accommodation to a qualified individual with a disability.”
While the condominium association argued that the board should consider “less obtrusive” alternative locations for the elevator, representatives for the applicant – including an architectural consultant and a contractor – argued the alternatives would affect off-street parking and the interior layout.
“The Board found that the partial loss of ocean view from the four ‘D Stack’ condominium units, including Appellants’ condo, was a reasonable and necessary accommodation, and that the requested modifications to the zoning code would not fundamentally alter the plan for development and regulation of Ocean City,” the appellate court opinion reads.
With a decision made, both Zang and Lubart filed a petition for judicial review in Worcester County Circuit Court. And in June 2023, following the court’s ruling to deny the petition, Zang and Lubart appealed the case to the Appellate Court of Maryland with three questions for the court to consider – was there substantial evidence to support the board’s determination, did the circuit court apply the correct
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Touch of Italy inks 5-year OPA food contract
By Tara Fischer Staff Writer
(Jan. 10, 2025) The Ocean Pines Association has secured a five-year deal with Touch of Italy Group as the community’s new food and beverage contractor for their three service locations — the Ocean Pines Yacht Club, the Ocean Pines Beach Club in Ocean City and the Clubhouse Bar and Grille.
When Touch of Italy takes over, it intends to serve an expanded American cuisine and fresh seafood menu. The company will also uphold the free summer concerts on the Yacht Club patio.
The official start date is yet to be determined, but it will be announced on the community’s website at oceanpines.org and at a town hall meeting.
The food and beverage contract with Touch of Italy was signed during a special OPA Board of Directors meeting on Wednesday, Jan. 8. The governing body voted to hire the restaurant group to handle food and beverage operations, taking over for Matt Ortt Companies, whose contract ends this year.
“This is an exciting opportunity for us to raise the bar in Ocean Pines,” Touch of Italy financial operations overseer Rick Lawrence said. “The pressure’s on, but we’re confident we’ll deliver.”
On Sept. 13, the association announced that rather than simply renew Matt Ortt’s contract, which is nearing expiration, it would seek proposals for
managing its food service operations.
At that time, OPA Board of Directors
Vice President Rick Farr said the decision was based on a recommendation from the neighborhood’s legal counsel, Bruce Bright of Ayres, Jenkins, Gordy, and Almand, and the community’s bylaws as they pertain to the RFP (request for proposals) process.
The OPA governing documents state that “all purchases and contracts for services or supplies for the Association shall, to the fullest extent practicable, be made by open competitive procedures.”
“It is our fiduciary responsibility as board members to our community to follow our bylaws and governing documents and ensure all protocols are followed for the recommendations by our General Manager that is in the best interest of all of Ocean Pines membership,” Farr said in September.
Potential vendors had until Oct. 18 to submit their bids. The request yielded three responses — SoDel Concepts from Delaware, Touch of Italy, and incumbent Matt Ortt Companies. The board agreed to allow Viola to research the prospects and offer a recommendation for the full board. On Wednesday, Touch of Italy was ultimately selected as the new food and beverage contractor.
Touch of Italy has three locations: one on 101 Second Street in Lewes, Delaware, one at 19724 Coastal Highway in Rehoboth, Delaware, and one at 6600 Coastal Highway in Ocean City.
The restaurant group also has the Royal Prime Steakhouse at Bally’s in Dover, Delaware, and runs Sunset Island Bar and Grille at 1 Beach Side Drive in Ocean City.
Now, Touch of Italy, founded by Bob Cipretti of Bethany Beach, will expand
its reach even further, this time into Ocean Pines.
During the group’s five-year contract with Ocean Pines, Lawrence emphasized that Ciprietti is committed to elevating the community’s dining experience and is “passionate about getting every flavor right and ensuring a high standard for every dish.”
Matt Ortt Companies, which also operates Coastal Salt and the Ocean City Rum Shack on the 16th Street Boardwalk, came on as the community’s food and beverage service operator in March 2018, signing a two-year deal.
The initial arrangement was extended by five years in 2020, which provided for a half-million dollar payout to the food and beverage service and a $19 per property owner subsidy by the Ocean Pines property owners.
The association sought outside proposals upon the anticipated expiration of Matt Ortt’s contract, which has now resulted in new food and beverage operations management.
“Touch of Italy has successfully managed a tiki bar operation in Ocean City, several thriving local restaurants, and a major banquet operation in Dover,” OPA General Manager John Viola said.
“We expect they will bring all that expertise to Ocean Pines, making them an ideal fit for our community.”
Per the terms of the request for proposals released last year, Touch of Italy will oversee the management and operations of the three food and beverage locations, including janitorial services, banquet functions, and the handling of live entertainment at the Yacht Club from Thursday through Sunday from Memorial Day to Labor Day.
The company is also tasked with ensuring that the menu and pricing are of quality and variety, meeting Ocean Pines’ needs, administering staffing, coordinating events, and maintaining the facilities and equipment.
“We want to be responsive, deliver exceptional quality, and earn the loyalty of Ocean Pines,” Lawrence said. “Our goal isn’t just to be the convenient choice. We want to be the first choice.” Lawrence added, “We’re so confident we can elevate the dining experience in Ocean Pines.”
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Touch of Italy representatives Robert Cipretti and
Factors combine for drop in Winterfest visitor numbers
By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor
WEST OC’S RAVENS, TERPS & CAPS HEADQUARTERS
(Jan. 10, 2025) While acknowledging that Winterfest attendance was down from last year, City Manager Terry McGean said a late Thanksgiving, colder weather, and other factors had some impact.
Ocean City’s Winterfest of Lights concluded its nearly six-week run last Tuesday. And while preliminary numbers show attendance was down between 8-10%, McGean said several factors – including its comparison to record numbers in 2023 – contributed to the decline.
“Overall we were very happy with Winterfest and we look forward to growing the event with new attractions and displays each year,” he said this week.
On Nov. 21, the Town of Ocean City kicked off its holiday season with the opening of its 32nd annual Winterfest of Lights, a walk-through experience featuring light displays, interactive games, a 50-foot Christmas tree and more at the 58-acre Northside Park. The event traditionally starts the week
before Thanksgiving.
However, with Thanksgiving occuring later on the November calendar, McGean said it reduced the number of days Winterfest was in operation by almost a week. That, combined with two inclement weather closures and colder temperatures during the month of December, impacted attendance, he said.
McGean also noted that the lack of trams traditionally offered during Winterfest of Lights had some impact. Since the tram service was suspended following an Aug. 20 Boardwalk fatality, senior citizens concerned about the lack of accessibility at Winterfest have come before the Mayor and Council in at least two meetings to request that the trams return for the winter event.
But the city manager said numbers collected for this year’s Winterfest of Lights are on par with previous Winterfest events.
“Last year was a record year,” he said, “[and] this year is equal to what we have seen in other years including 2022.”
High court hands down ruling
Continued from Page 4
standard of law, and did the board deny Lubart due process by not allowing him to cross-examine a witness during the board’s public hearing.
The state’s highest court confirmed the circuit court decision, opining that the board did not err in its determination that the elevator was a reasonable and necessary accommodation. The appellate court also argued it was not tasked with considering if the circuit court erred, but whether the administrative agency erred.
“On appeal, we independently evaluate the Board’s decision, considering all relevant factors,” the opinion
reads.
Regarding the appellants’ claims that the board violated Lubart’s right to cross-examine, the high court declared that Lubart was not denied due process, as he was represented by the condominium association’s legal counsel and did not provide a list of questions that were different from those of the association’s attorney.
“At no time did Mr. Lubart identify to the Board the questions he would have asked and proffer how they would be ‘meaningfully different’ than the questions asked by counsel for the unit owners as a whole,” the opinion reads.
PHOTO COURTESY OF TOWN OF OCEAN CITY
Officials say attendance at this year’s Winterfest of Lights, pictured above, did not meet the record numbers recorded in 2023. City Manager Terry McGean said cold weather and a late start contributed to the decline.
Officials grant proposed OC hotel’s 5th floor
Redevelopment project will expand after three lots for parking recently purchased
By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor
(Jan. 10, 2025) City planners this week approved a site plan revision that will allow the developer of a downtown hotel to add parking that will accommodate a fifth story.
On Tuesday, the Ocean City Planning Commission voted unanimously to approve site plan revisions to add parking, which will allow a new fivestory hotel at 608 Baltimore Avenue to 20 units, an owner’s/manager’s unit and two accessory employee housing units. The property was formerly home to Nock Apartments. The applicant’s attorney, Joe Moore, said
his client had acquired property across the street from the proposed hotel, which will accommodate most of the required parking. The applicant is listed as Ocean Sands Hotel with Vangjel Telo as principal.
“We think we are providing a winwin situation,” he told the commission. “We’re redeveloping property in the downtown area of Ocean City, we are reducing nonconformity, we are requesting to have workforce housing on site for our employees, and on-site management, which is one of the accommodations we can provide to Oceans Mist [condominium] next door.”
Zoning Administrator Kay Gordy told commissioners on Wednesday that the developer had received site plan approval for a hotel with ground parking and four living stories above.
Now that the developer has acquired three lots across the street from the proposed project, they were seeking to add a fifth story to the hotel.
“Now they have gotten more parking on the west-side properties, that’s going to allow them to go up one more story to reconfigure the space a little on the fourth floor and add an employee unit there,” she explained. “And then on the fifth floor, they will put an employee unit there, plus a three-bedroom multi-family apartment. It’s going to be an owner/manager suite.”
Most of the required parking would be located at 505, 509 and 511 Baltimore Avenue, Gordy said, and that the plan as presented would reduce the parking nonconformity that currently exists.
“They are not increasing noncon-
formity,” she said. “They are adding parcels.”
Moore said his client was reducing a nonconformity that they would otherwise be entitled to utilize. He said the changes would not only improve parking accommodations for the hotel’s guests, but would improve the surrounding area.
“Number one, we are doing a redevelopment in the downtown area, a substantial improvement, we believe, from a nice, accommodating apartment to a hotel,” he said. “The Telo family, in an effort to do this, has acquired the properties on the west side, right across the street.”
Moore told commissioners the developer was working with the Oceans Mist to secure an easement agreement that would benefit both the hotel project and the condominium association.
He also sought the commission’s approval to eliminate some of the staff conditions that were presented. He asked that the commission allow the developer to keep a one-foot encroachment into Wilmington Lane and eliminate an eight-foot sidewalk, among other things. He noted that the off-site parking would be deed restricted for the benefit of the hotel.
Following the presentation, Commissioner Joel Brous questioned the parking accommodations.
“Most of the parking is offsite, across the street, and there’s a lot of stacked parking as well,” he said. “Do you guys have a plan in place for how you’re going to utilize that? Are you going to valet?”
Blaine Smith noted that each of the tandem, or stacked, parking spaces would be assigned to guests of one unit. He said those guests would be responsible for parking and moving their own cars.
“It will be conducted by the user of that apartment,” he said.
After a lengthy discussion, the commission voted 5-0 to approve the site plan revisions but with the condition that the developer come back with new renderings and take down the power lines that run across the property. They also allowed the developer to eliminate the sidewalk requirement and keep the one-foot encroachment that currently exists.
The commission on Tuesday also approved a change of use at the KCoast Shopping Center at 78th Street from retail to personal service establishment. The applicant, John Derrickson II, has plans to convert a unit from retail to a self-service laundromat.
“Because it was built as a shopping center over 5,000 square feet in the LC-1, a self-service laundromat is allowed as a permitted use, as well as retail space,” Gordy said.
A motion to approve the change of use passed in a 4-0 vote, with Chair Joe Wilson abstaining.
DONATION DELIVERED
American Legion Post 166 Leathernecks made a special donation for hurricane victims in North Carolina. Leatherneck Jon Pearl, flying his personal Grumman Tiger aircraft with his wife Kim in the co-pilot seat, delivered a $7,550 Leatherneck check to Samaritan’s Purse in North Carolina on January 2. The couple presented the donation to Chris Johnston, Director of Donor Response and Services. When they learned Johnston and his wife had 10 children, they gave him a $200 Chickfil-A gift card before leaving the next morning to fly back to Ocean City Airport where their airplane is hangered.
State to organize workshop for pedestrian, biker safety
Feedback
from residents about Coastal Highway sought at Jan. 14
By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor
meeting
(Jan. 10, 2025) State transportation officials will visit Ocean City next week to gather public input on pedestrian and bicycle safety needs along Coastal Highway.
Next Tuesday, Jan. 14, the Maryland State Highway Administration will hold a public informational workshop at the Roland E. Powell Convention Center, where attendees will have an opportunity to provide comments on pedestrian and bicycle safety needs along the Route 528, or Coastal Highway, corridor. The workshop will feature maps and displays for the project.
“At the workshop, State Highway Administration representatives will be available to listen to your feedback and answer project-related questions,” the agency’s notice reads. “This information is important and will be taken into consideration to advance and improve project development.”
The State Highway Administration
has started its MD 528 project as part of the Pedestrian Safety Action Plan, which identifies areas of need and prioritizes corridors for pedestrian and bicycle safety projects. The local project aims to make improvements between 15th and 67th streets in Ocean City, the agency reports. .
“The PSAP program prioritizes safety enhancements along corridors, like MD 528,” the agency’s website reads.
“Implementation decisions are made using factors such as equity, destinations and connections, crash data and density. To make travel safer for all road users, this project will make Context Driven improvements along 3.13 miles from 15th Street to 67th Street in Worcester County.”
The public informational workshop will be held Jan. 14, from 5-7 p.m., at the convention center. There will be no formal presentation, the agency reports, and attendees will have the opportunity to view the displays at their own pace.
For more information, visit the Maryland Department of Transportation State Highway Administration website and click on the MD 528 project on the “Project Portal” page.
SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH
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County pushes on with new roof for Snow Hill building
Worcester commissioners award project’s contractor
By Brian Shane Staff Writer
(Jan. 10, 2025) Poor construction is the culprit behind a costly roof replacement at a key government building, one that officials in Worcester County say could have been avoided.
The Public Works Department needs $1.6 million to replace the roof at the county’s headquarters, a building known as the Worcester County Government Center, in downtown Snow Hill. Structural issues now stem from a cost-cutting installation in 2001, when the facility was built, according to Public Works Director Dallas Baker.
The roof was over-budget when it was installed, “and so there were some value engineering done to that contract and items that were removed (that) probably should have not been removed,” Baker told the county’s Board of Commissioners at its Dec. 17 meeting.
The roof is made of standing seam metal roof panels and sections of EPDM, a synthetic rubber roofing membrane. Mike Hutchinson, the county’s maintenance superintendent, added at the meeting that if the roof had been installed correctly, “we wouldn’t have these issues today and we’d have another 10-plus years of the same roof before we’re looking at changing anything.”
It’s a matter so urgent that an evaluating engineer and roofing contractors commented that “they are surprised the roof has not blown off yet,” according to the county’s October 2024 Capital Improvement Plan, a list of projects needing funding for the next five years.
That capital funding report goes on to explain how that “value engineering” of the roof system during construction eliminated the plywood layer under the metal roof sections, and that roof panels were not upgraded as required to a structural panel as a result of the plywood being eliminated.
But removal of the plywood underlayer left the metal roof panels unsupported, the report says, causing flexing, seam stains, and aesthetic stress wrinkling known as “oil canning.”
Furthermore, the report says leaks have sprung due to corrosion where the metal roof meets the rubber membrane. It says the roof panels are vulnerable to wind damage, with a “high likelihood of detachment and further panel loss.” On top of that, poor insulation and ventilation have led to condensation and climate control issues on
third
36 JUNEWAY LANE • OCEAN PINES
Office building to receive major roof replacement soon
A potential roof failure would allow water infiltration in the insulation and ceiling. That could mean a temporary relocation of dozens of county staffers at significant cost, affecting continuity of operations. Work would be required to temporarily protect interior spaces of the building, the report also says.
Adding to the roof remorse, Commissioner Joe Mitrecic (District 7, Ocean City) expressed serious concerns about a 30-year warranty offered on the sealant being used in areas where the roof is flat, an asphalt-like resin known as bitumen.
“That number for some reason scares me,” said Mitrecic, a builder and general contractor by trade. “On that material, it’s just not attainable. It’s concerning to me that they’re offering a 30-year warranty on a material that’s not designed to last 30 years.”
Commissioner Chip Bertino (District 5, Ocean Pines) said it all reminded him of a prior engineering snafu, when the Ocean Pines library required major repairs result of construction errors.
“The design was crappy, and we ended up spending over a million dollars to get it right. And now we’re doing the same thing here,” Bertino said at the meeting. “This is twice now that it’s cost us. This is ridiculous. This government was pennywise and pound-foolish, and now we’re paying the price for it.”
In the future, contract stipulations would have to address potential negligence on the part of a builder, and “we can go after them for damages,” Nicholas Rice, the county’s procurement officer, told Bertino.
In reality, though, that’s not possible for this decades-old building, according to county attorney Roscoe Leslie. He told the commissioners that the standard window to take legal action in cases like this is three to five years.
The commissioners ultimately voted unanimously to award the repair contract to Cleveland-based Garland/DBS, Inc., for $1,584,588. The county had already budgeted $2.8 million for the project.
Local legislators prepare for budget battle in Annapolis
Delegation seeks solutions to shortfall, pre-files bills ahead of assembly session
By Brian Shane Staff Writer
(Jan. 10, 2025) Fighting wind power and finding solutions to a statewide budget crunch will take priority for Lower Shore legislators as the Maryland General Assembly convenes this week to kick off its 2025 Legislative Session.
Del. Wayne Hartman (R-38C, Worcester) believes state lawmakers can’t afford to tax their way out of an historic $3 billion deficit.
“Our personal income tax is one of the highest in the county,” he said. “We tax everything. We need to reel in our spending. We need to be fair about this. A lot of times rural Maryland gets cheated because of the fewer representatives and it’s a numbers game. It’s on us, the Eastern Shore delegation, and rural legislators to unite and fight hard, to make sure what we need is protected.”
Del. Charles Otto (R-38C, Worcester) said the big budget question is: when the purse strings tighten, who suffers and who benefits?
“We have a handful of jurisdictions that can suck up every dollar they can find, and no one is concerned about the rest of us,” he said. “A little bit of money goes a long way with us. It can make a big difference. Typically, we have similar issues that we have to deal with, but the solutions are usually a lot different.”
In the Maryland Senate, Lower Shore representative Sen. Mary Beth Carozza (R-38) agreed a pull-back on spending is imperative. She noted that passing a balanced budget is the only constitutional requirement of the General Assembly.
Carozza said the state’s pending $3 billion revenue shortfall is even more dire than the “Great Recession” of 2007-2008, one that will put a tremendous strain on all policy and legislative proposals – most notably, she said, the state’s 10-year, $10 billion “Blueprint for Maryland’s Future” public school reform plan.
Local control a priority
Going back to when the Blueprint was still being shaped by a state commission, Carozza says she noticed a lack of local representation in the decision-making process. With that in mind, she thinks the Blueprint needs to be re-evaluated in a post-pandemic environment where students’ needs are changing.
“Why don’t we let Worcester County – that has one of the strongest school systems, if not the strongest in the entire state – let them focus on the areas that make the most sense for Worcester as op-
posed to this ‘one size fits all’ for all of our school jurisdictions.”
The Lower Shore’s ongoing battle against offshore wind also loom large this session, Carozza said. In the face of a proposed wind farm that would install 114 turbines in the Atlantic 10.7 miles from Ocean City, Carozza’s team is working on legislation she believes will pull back the curtain on its real price tag.
Her office is working on a bill that would compel the Maryland Public Service Commission to conduct a cost-benefit analysis of offshore energy compared to other sources. She plans to collaborate with local leaders in Worcester County before formally introducing the legislation.
“It should be a good, solid, informational bipartisan bill: here’s the information and then we start to reveal the true cost of the offshore wind energy project,” Carozza said. “It’s often seemed like it’s, you know, David against Goliath. Now, others in the General Assembly are starting to question and challenge Maryland’s overall climate change policies and the costs to rate payers and taxpayers.”
Other Sen. Carozza bills Carozza has pre-filed several bills ahead of the session, include one that mandates training on child abuse and domestic violence cases for family law judges and child custody evaluators. Another is a bill that says a defendant must appear in court in cases of reckless or negligent driving that caused the death of another. Another bill, one crafted in collaboration with Hartman on the House side, would allow out-of-state RV dealers to market their products at the Ocean City RV show instead of being limited by statute to two RV shows in the Baltimore area. When this same idea was floated last year, it got pushback from the RV industry, leading to a veto from Gov. Wes Moore.
Another Carozza bill in the hopper would make it illegal, but not criminal, to stand in the roadway or median in order to solicit money or donations from people in vehicles. This bill, which would affect Wicomico County only, was scheduled for an initial hearing in Annapolis on Jan. 9.
“We really want to keep it focused on the public safety aspects and not as, you know, a way to target homeless people. We also think the bill could be helpful in steering those individuals to needed assistance whether it’s due to poverty or homelessness,” Carozza said.
Finally, Carozza plans to introduce a bill that would amend the existing tax credit for employers offering an apprenticeship program, in the hopes more employers will participate. That one is not pre-filed but will be intro-
General Assembly legislative session begins
Continued from Page 16
duced soon, she said.
“This is I see this as a win-win for our area because, if we are able to increase the number of apprenticeships, that will help the employers with their workforce shortage. It will also give not just our young people, but my constituents, other career pathways,” she said.
Del. Hartman bills
Also on the education front, Hartman has pre-filed a bill he’s calling the Right To Teach Act. It would give secondary-grade teachers greater authority over unruly students from their classroom.
While a principal or a guidance counselor would take action to remove a student, Hartman says his bill gives teachers the power to decide when a child then would rejoin the class. He added that he’s fine-tuning the bill now and wants to include mental health provisions.
“We’ll clear 19 kids out of a classroom for one kid’s behavior,” said Hartman. “The teacher will have the ultimate right for when that student comes back. It’s allowing the teacher to have the ability to teach and not be disrupted by behavior problems, whatever they are.”
Hartman also has pre-filed a bill that would lower the corporate in-
come tax rate — currently set at 8.25% — to encourage job growth. Calling it the Economic Competitiveness Act, Hartman argues that Maryland performs poorly at private-sector job growth due to overreliance on federal government jobs – “and that’s subject to change with the new administration coming in,” he said.
“The Maryland Chamber of Commerce just did a study and came out with a report saying we need to lower our corporate income tax rate. It’s one of those situations where it’s going to be hard for Maryland to do that, but we need to rip off the BandAid and just do it. It could be much worse and snowball if we start losing federal jobs,” Hartman said.
Another bill pre-filed by Hartman responds to an upcoming state mandate over a metric known as Building Energy Performance Standards. The law as it stands says buildings over 35,000 square feet must switch over to electric power and shut down fossil fuel operations by 2040.
For Worcester County, this would include a handful of government facilities and many private buildings like hotels and high-rise condos.
“That’s going to be a huge hit for Ocean City,” Hartman said.
“To convert an existing hotel that
uses fossil fuels is, I hate to say impossible, but it’s not at all practical,” he added. “Hopefully there’s an appetite in the General Assembly this year. All the energy policy we’ve passed is not practical. We’re putting so many demands on the electric grid, the grid can’t handle it.”
Also relating to condominiums in Ocean City, Hartman is pitching a bill that would give condo associations more time to comply with a recently enacted rule mandating that they start keeping far more cash in reserves. “It’s really put condo associations in positions where it’s doubling and tripling fees and making home ownership unaffordable,” he said.
On the lighter side, Hartman wants to codify the Orange Crush as the official Maryland state cocktail. He’s pre-filed a bill in direct response to Delaware lawmakers who, over the summer, named the iconic juice-andvodka tipple as the First State’s official adult beverage. Hartman says it’s a matter of economic development –and bragging rights.
“Delaware stole that from us,” Hartman said “I think it’s important people know that the original Orange Crush came from West Ocean City. It’s like when you go into a restaurant and see a real Maryland crabcake. I want to create that same hype for the
original Maryland Orange Crush.”
Del. Otto bills Otto has not pre-filed any bills. However, in an interview this week, he said he has a few pieces of legislation he’s writing and plans to introduce them once the session is underway.
One bill would provide notification of victims’ families when there’s a release of a violent criminal from a correctional facility, either for early release or completion of a sentence. Another bill would update some local ordinances for Somerset County, which requires state intervention because it is not a home rule county.
And, like his colleagues, Otto also opposes offshore wind and is cheering for other local jurisdictions that are stepping up with a cohesive plan of opposition.
“I mean, why would you want to put electricity and wind turbines out in the hurricane zone?” he said. “We think it’s the stupidest idea ever conceived.”
General Assembly 2025 calendar Jan 8: General Assembly convenes Jan 15: Governor submits budget bill March 3: Final day to submit bills March 31: Budget bill to be passed April 7: Adjournment (“Sine Die”) Oct 1: Most bills take effect
Local property assessments jump
Northern Worcester values increase 29% after recent round of SDAT reviews
By Brian Shane Staff Writer
(Jan. 10, 2025) Most Worcester County residents will see an increase in their property assessments this year, as the state’s estimated tax values for residential and commercial properties are set to increase by 20% statewide.
Property assessments for about 18,000 accounts in Ocean Pines, Berlin, Showell and Bishopville rose 29%. That increase will be phased-in over the next three years, according to the state’s Department of Assessments and Taxation (SDAT), which mailed notices to homeowners Dec. 30.
Homeowners may grouse at higher assessments that may lead to bigger property tax bills, but overall, it’s a good indicator of a healthy real estate market, according to Amy Smith, SDAT’s Supervisor of Assessment for Worcester County. She said homes in this area, last assessed in 2022, now have a collective value of $6.2 billion.
When it comes to property assessment, SDAT divides Worcester
PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH The map above shows the three assessment areas of Worcester County. In the latest review, property assessments for Ocean Pines, Berlin, Showell and Bishopville (Area 1) increased 29%.
County into three different zones. Every three years, one zone gets measured. This year’s assessment zone is classified by SDAT as Group 1. Each group is assessed every three years.
Group 2 encompasses the area south of Newark, including the greater Snow Hill and Pocomoke areas, as well West Ocean City and the South Point district. Group 3 is strictly Ocean City. New assessments will come in 2026 for Group 2, and 2027 for Group 3.
Overall, Worcester County contains about 55,000 total residential properties, including condos and single-family homes (apartments are considered commercial property). The county’s total assessable base is about $19.4 billion – most of which lies in and around Ocean City – but that number has the capacity to change daily, Smith said.
SDAT offers appeal process for Maryland homeowners
“Houses get demolished. We get new buildings all the time. We could take a 1,000 acres farm and create a new subdivision with residential lots,” she said.
That assessable base can take big swings, too. For example, a $5 million property can be demolished, and a $30 million hotel property goes up in its place. Vacant properties, such as the land slated for the new Wawa in Berlin, can be developed, resulting in massive land value surges. Massive commercial properties, too, can be demolished and turned into residential, like when Ocean City’s Sun & Surf movie theater became a condo complex, Smith added.
Property assessments are based on reviews of recent home sales and are conducted over a 12-month period in bulk by SDAT staffers. These mass appraisals account for factors like the number of building permits, new construction, and home sale trends into a final tally.
From there, the local SDAT office sends out its final assessment –which is not to be confused with a property tax bill, which comes from the county treasurer – at year’s end. Statewide, SDAT just mailed about 700,000 notices from its Baltimore
headquarters.
Assessments in Maryland have been rising sharply since 2022, with increases of over 20% in recent years, after a period of slow growth following the 2007-08 financial crisis and the COVID-19 pandemic
Not everyone pays. About 700 properties in Worcester, including churches, are exempt from property taxes, Smith said. Disabled veterans can be exempted but must prove 100% disability after an honorable discharge to qualify. Blind homeowners may also receive a partial exemption.
The state also offers a Homestead Tax Credit, which limits how steeply a homeowner’s property tax burden may increase. While state law caps the tax credit at no more than 10% annually, local governments may lower that figure even more. For example, Worcester’s cap is 3%.
Homeowners who wish to appeal their assessment may do so by telephone, in writing, in person, or even using a video conferencing option, Smith said.
“Rightfully so – a lot of people might have a secondary home here. If they can’t make it to Snow Hill for the appeal, it’s an option,” she said.
Worcester County Assessments
CHART 1 Group
CHART 2
Combined
Source: Maryland Department of Assessments and Taxation
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Local historian loses home, archives in December blaze
By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor
(Jan. 10, 2025) Community members are raising funds for a local historian who lost his home, and all of his archives, in a fire late last month.
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As of Wednesday, nearly $6,000 have been raised for Bob Jones, a Stockton resident and local historian who lost his home and all of his possessions in a house fire in the early morning hours of Dec. 19. Paul Sherr, the campaign’s organizer, said the money that is collected will be used to help Jones rebuild his collection and turn posts from his Facebook group, “Bob Jones’s Worcester Chronicles, Worc. Co. MD,” into a book.
“Anybody who serves the general community like Bob deserves some credit and help,” Sherr said. “That’s why I did what I did.”
On Dec. 19, at around 3:30 a.m., the Stockton Volunteer Fire Company and surrounding agencies responded to a residential structure fire at Jones’s home, located on Little Mill Road. Jones said the fire originated from a wood stove, an original feature to the 112-year-
“I woke up at 2 or 3 a.m. and noticed an odor I wasn’t accustomed to smelling in my home …,” he recalled. “I went downstairs to the kitchen and opened the door … There was so much smoke I realized that I had to get out of there.”
Using a golf cart, Jones fled to his nephew’s house, located across the road, and called 911. But within a few hours, his residence, family heirlooms and years of historical research were gone.
In the aftermath of the early morning blaze, Jones shared the news with the nearly 5,000 members of his Facebook group, which shares historical data, photographs and information on Worcester County.
“I am grateful for the many expressions of support and sympathy, which, when added to my own well-springs of resiliency and grit will get me back to higher ground …,” he wrote. “Give me a day or two and I will jump back on my horse and trot or canter even if I can no longer gallop.”
However, the story didn’t end there.
Sherr, a long-time member of Jones’s Facebook group and grandson of Reginald Truitt, co-author of the 1977 book “Worcester County, Maryland’s Arcadia,” saw the Facebook post and decided to pitch in. Within a matter of days, a GoFundMe page was created.
“Through another relative, I was made aware many years ago that Bob had a Facebook page where he was doing pieces on all sorts of Worcester County history …,” Sherr explained. “I have become a quiet observer of all this and felt blessed with all the information that was being sent out. As soon as I had found out what had happened, I started to communicate with him and asked if there was anything I could do to help. I was happy to hear he was okay with a GoFundMe.”
While insurance will be used to rebuild the home, Sherr said any funds raised will be used to replace Jones’s extensive collection of history books, among other things. The money will also be used to publish a book using some of the estimated 3,000 posts Jones has shared with his Facebook group.
If accomplished, Jones said it would be the first book he has written. He noted that he had previously written articles, scholarly journals and a complete index that accompanied Reginald Truitt’s second edition.
“It’s overwhelming,” Jones said of the fundraising effort. “When the community rallies around you like this, it really validates what you’ve been doing, and it confirms how good people are.”
Since the fire, Jones has continued to write for his Facebook following while sharing both the small and big wins he has encountered along the way. Just this week, for example, Jones recovered his computer database, which lists the names, births, marriages and deaths of roughly 30,000 individuals born in Worcester County over the centuries.
Sherr said those interested in contributing to the fundraiser can visit gofundme.com and search “Support Bob Jones: Restore Worcester’s History.” He said additional information can also be found on Jones’s Facebook page.
“So far the response has been great,” he said.
SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH
A before-and-after photo shows what remains of Bob Jones’s 1913 home. Funds are being raised to replace his historical collection and publish his work.
Authorities seek shooting suspect
By Brian Shane Staff Writer
(Jan. 10, 2025) Police in Worcester County have charged two teens with first-degree murder after a broad-daylight gunfire exchange outside a Pocomoke City convenience store. Nobody was killed.
One suspect, 18-year-old Evrin Holden, Jr., suffered a gunshot wound to the jaw and is being detained by police at the hospital, according to the Worcester County Sheriff’s Office. Police said Holden brought himself to TidalHealth Peninsula Regional hospital in Salisbury after the incident, and from there was airlifted to the R. Adams Cowley Shock Trauma Center in Baltimore. A Shock Trauma spokeswoman said Wednesday that Holden remains hospitalized in critical condition.
Authorities this week were still
seeking the whereabouts of the second shooter, who police identified as 19-year-old Jymere Williams.
“We will not tolerate any such violence, and we will act swiftly to hold those involved accountable,” said Worcester County Sheriff Matt Crisafulli in a statement.
The incident happened around 9:50 a.m. on Jan. 5. Police said Williams was standing next to a vehicle at the Duck Inn convenience store on Linden Avenue in Pocomoke City when Holden approached him. Both men pulled out guns and opened fire on each other, police said.
Another man was shot, police added, after he exited the vehicle near Williams and ran. He was also taken to Shock Trauma. Police have not re-
Coastal Highway closed for safety following roof issues
By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor
(Jan. 10, 2025) Roof damage from a nearby business closed Coastal Highway in both directions for several hours last Wednesday as road and utility crews worked to secure the area.
On Jan. 1, at around 4 p.m., crews began detouring motorists on northbound and southbound Coastal Highway between 75th and 76th streets. Ocean City Public Works Director Hal Adkins noted high winds had damaged the metal roof of a nearby business, posing a risk to those in the area.
“It was peeling off and the first responders – fire and police – were concerned it was going to end up blowing directly across Coastal Highway,” he said. “You know, something of that
leased his name.
When Holden is able to be released from hospital care, police will arrest him and serve him with a warrant, according to the Sheriff’s Office. He’s been charged with attempted first-degree murder, two counts attempted second-degree murder, and two counts each of firstand second-degree assault.
Additional charges against Holden include two counts of reckless endangerment, use of a firearm during a crime of violence, and possession of firearm by a minor, according to the Sheriff’s Office.
Williams has evaded custody and police said they’re on the lookout for him. A warrant also has been issued for his arrest. His criminal charges also include attempted first- and second-degree murder, first- and second-degree assault, use of a firearm during a crime of violence, possession of a firearm by a minor, and having a loaded handgun.
Anyone with additional information regarding this incident is asked to contact the Worcester County Bureau of Investigation at 410-6322076.
sort could really do some damage, basically blow out windshields and that type of thing. And also, if it got into the primary lines of Delmarva Power, it could’ve caused a major electrical event, sparks and things of that sort.”
As a result, both directions of Coastal Highway between 75th and 76th streets were closed from around 4 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. as crews with Delmarva Power and the Maryland State Highway Administration assessed the situation. Beach Bus service was also suspended during that time, as the city’s buses could not detour around the closure.
“Out of an abundance of caution, the roadway system was shut down until which time the [business] owner could mobilize the contractor and secure the roof before it blew out into the highway.”
Evrin Holden, Jr.
Jymere Williams
SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH
Sea Quest in Ocean City suffered roof damage from high winds last week, causing safety concerns.
Traffic stop leads to drug arrest for Delaware woman
(Jan. 10, 2025) Maryland State Police arrested a Delaware woman after uncovering suspected cocaine and heroin during a Jan. 2 traffic stop in Worcester County.
Maria Milagros Garcia, 39, of Greenwood, Delaware, is charged with six counts of possession of a controlled dangerous substance, concealment of a dangerous weapon, and other traffic-related offenses.
Shortly before 12:30 a.m., a trooper from the Maryland State Police Berlin Barrack conducted a traffic stop on a Kia passenger vehicle traveling south on U.S. Route 113 at Maryland Route 90 for speeding. While conducting the traffic stop, police learned Garcia had an outstanding warrant through Delaware. She was subsequently arrested. Additionally, troopers located suspected cocaine and heroin as well as a taser. Following her arrest, Garcia was transported to the Berlin Barrack for processing and was later seen by a district court commissioner.
The investigation remains active and ongoing.
Cooking led to West OC house fire
(Jan. 10, 2024) The Ocean City Fire Department responded to a reported structure fire on Tudor Road in West Ocean City on Dec. 24, 2024. Around 6:30 p.m., initial Fire and Emergency Medical Services (EMS) units from the Ocean City Fire Department, the Berlin Fire Company, and Ocean Pines responded to the scene. They arrived to observe smoke and
fire coming from the rear of the residential structure. Fire and EMS units worked quickly to contain the fire. All occupants were able to exit the structure safely before the arrival of the fire department.
A firefighter sustained a minor injury during the incident.
The Worcester County Fire Marshal’s Office conducted a thorough origin and cause fire investigation.
Authorities determined the fire was accidental from cooking on a deck enclosure.
The Ocean City Fire Department reminds residents and visitors to always have an escape plan and working smoke alarms in your residence. Should you need assistance checking your residence’s smoke alarm, please contact your local fire department station.
ENTERTAINMENT
Maria Garcia
SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH
from Maria Garcia, including heroin and cocaine (pictured), during
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Best Beats On The Beach
Who’s Where When
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 10:
Jason Lee Wednesday, January 15: Brian Bishop
CRAWL STREET TAVERN
443-373-2756
Wicomico St., Downtown O.C. Friday, January 10: Rogue Citizens Saturday, January 11: Fuzzbox Piranha
GREENE TURTLE WEST
410-213-1500 Route 611, West OC Saturday, January 11: TBA
HARBORSIDE
410-213-1846
South Harbor Rd., West End O.C.
Fridays: DJ Billy T Saturday, January 11:
BEATS BY WAX Pickles Pub: Tuesdays
BEATS BY STYLER Pickles Pub: Sundays & Wednesdays
DJ BILLY T Harborside: Fridays
DJ MARY JANE Seacrets: Friday, January 10
JASON LEE Crabcake Factory Bayside: Friday, January 10
DJ BIGLER Harborside: Saturday, January 11
ROGUE CITIZENS
Crawl Street Tavern: Friday, January 10
Pickles Pub: Saturday, January 11
THE DUNEHOUNDS
Harborside: Saturday, January 11
WHISKEYHICKON BOYS
Seacrets: Saturday, January 11
SCHIZOPHRENIC BOOGIEMEN
Coins Pub: Friday, January 17
OPPOSITE DIRECTIONS
Harborside: Sunday, January 12
Crawl Street: Saturday, January 11
SOCIAL DRINKING
Fager’s Island: Saturday, January 18
Who’s Where When
The Dunehounds & 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 11:
Rogue Citizens 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 10:
Blake Haley & DJ Mary Jane
Saturday, January 11: Whiskeyhickon Boys & DJ Connair
Thursday, January 16: Carley Twigg
DUST N BONES DUO
Harborside: Thursday, January 16
FUZZBOX PIRANHA
SUBMITTED PHOTOS/OC TODAY-DISPATCH SHOP WITH A COP
The Maryland State Police Berlin Barrack, in collaboration with the Worcester County CRICKET Center (Child Resource Intervention Center Kids Empowerment Team), hosted the annual "Shop with a Cop" experience last month. The Berlin Police Department, Worcester County Sheriff’s Office, Ocean City Police Department, and Maryland Department of Natural Resources officers also joined in to help with the festivities. This year, 32 children were identified by the Worcester County Board of Education to participate in the event. Pictured are some scenes from the special day.
ARIES – Mar 21/Apr 20
Focus on collaboration this week, Aries. Teamwork leads to unexpected rewards if you are open to others’ ideas, so remain receptive to the input of teammates.
TAURUS – Apr 21/May 21
Taurus, when a project presents itself to you, stay grounded and run through all the components carefully. Employ the same strategy when going over financial opportunities.
GEMINI – May 22/Jun 21
Gemini, clear up any misunderstandings and express your thoughts openly with others this week. Communication is certainly key at this juncture in time.
CANCER – Jun 22/Jul 22
It is important that you take time for some self-care this week, Cancer. Your emotional well-being is just as important as your physical fitness. Reflect on some personal goals in this area.
LEO – Jul 23/Aug 23
Leo, you often excel in group settings, and social gatherings this week are a place where you can shine. Use all opportunities to network and connect with others.
VIRGO – Aug 24/Sept 22
It is important to focus on your worklife balance right now, Virgo. Prioritize important tasks, but also make time for relaxation. Small changes to your routine can be ideal.
LIBRA – Sept 23/Oct 23
Embrace your artistic side this week, Libra. Consider a new hobby that will keep your mind busy. Social activities that involve creative pursuits also can bring inspiration and joy.
SCORPIO – Oct 24/Nov 22
Allow home and family to take center stage, Scorpio. Spend as much time as possible with loved ones and try to get to the root of any persistent, unresolved issues.
SAGITTARIUS – Nov 23/Dec 21
Sagittarius, this week focus on activities that afford a chance to learn and explore. You might want to take a class or try a new hobby. Curiosity can be exciting.
CAPRICORN – Dec 22/Jan 20
Financial matters may require some attention right now, Capricorn. Examine your budget and figure out if the new year requires some changes to how you’re managing money.
AQUARIUS – Jan 21/Feb 18
Aquarius, new ideas may lead to some personal projects that inspire you. You might find that you’ll be quite busy on these self-imposed tasks for the next couple of weeks.
PISCES – Feb 19/Mar 20
This is a good time to focus attention inward, Pisces. Make time for reflection and even some meditation if that is something that interests you. The rewards will be worth it.
Calendar
Fri., Jan. 10
BABY TIME
Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 10:30 a.m. Songs, rhymes, fingerplays and stories. For ages 0-2 years. 410-641-0650, www.worcesterlibrary.org
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
HOMESCHOOL HANGOUT
Worcester County Library - Snow Hill Branch, 307 N. Washington St., 11 a.m. Join in for STREAM activities and socialize with other homeschool families. For ages 6-11 years. 410-632-3495, http://www.worcesterlibrary.org
BOOK OF THE MONTH CLUB: ‘FAHRENHEIT 451’ BY RAY BRADBURY
Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 2 p.m. Copies of the book are available at the Ocean Pines Library circulation desk. 410-208-4014, www.worcesterlibrary.org
MARYLAND CRAB CAKE DINNER
Stevenson United Methodist Church, 123 N. Main St., Berlin, 4-6 p.m. One crab cake sandwich platter ($14), two crab cake sandwich platter ($24) and crab cake sandwiches ($10). Platters include green beans, baked potato and Cole slaw. Carryout or eat in. Bake sale table.
MIXED MEDIA WITH SISTA BIG
Worcester County Library - Pocomoke Branch, 301 Market St., 5:30 p.m. Create your own art and poetry pieces with guidance from Sharnell Tull. Registration necessary: 410-957-0878. www.worcesterlibrary.org
KIGHTS OF COLUMBUS BINGO
Fridays - Knights of Columbus, 9901 Coastal Highway, behind St. Luke’s Church. Doors open at 5 p.m., bingo starts at 6:30 p.m. Light snacks available before bingo and at intermission. 410-524-7994
Sat., Jan. 11
DIVINE LITURGY & BLESSING OF THE WATERS
St. George Greek Orthodox Church, 8805 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, 9:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Orthros, 8:30 a.m.; Divine Liturgy, 9:30 a.m.; followed by Procession & Blessing of Waters. Divers contact ocgocpriest@gmail.com for more info. Prizes for all participants. www.stgeorgebythesea.org, 307-365-3930
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.
BULL & OYSTER ROAST
American Legion Synepuxent Post 166, 2308 Philadelphia Ave., Ocean City, 3-6 p.m. Pit beef, oysters, Cole slaw, potato salad, oyster stew, beverages and desserts. Raffles and music. All-you-can-eat $55 or table of 8 for $400. 410-289-3166
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.
Sun.,
Jan. 12
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
Mon., Jan. 13
STORY TIME: SHAPES
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
WRITING FOR WELLNESS
Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 1:30 p.m. Writing about stressful experiences like illness may boost health and psychological well-being. Group uses exercises to stimulate creative express. 410-2084014, www.worcesterlibrary.org
MOVIE MATINEE
Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 2 p.m. Come see a movie you might not have had a chance to see in the theaters. Light refreshments provided. 410-208-4014, www.worcesterlibrary.org
TRUE CRIME BOOK CLUB: ‘AMERICAN PREDATOR’ BY MAUREEN CALLAHAN
Worcester County Library - Ocean City
Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 2 p.m.
Join in for an afternoon of true crime. 410-524-1818, www.worcesterlibrary.org
GENEALOGY RESEARCH
Worcester County Library - Snow Hill Branch, 307 N. Washington St., 3-6 p.m. Come tour the local history collection. If you need help finding your roots, contact the local history librarian at history@worcesterlibrary.org. 410-632-3495, 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
COOKING FOR BRAIN HEALTH
Worcester County Library - Snow Hill Branch, 307 N. Washington St., 5:30 p.m. Create a delicious and nutritious dish using ingredients that promote brain health. Presented by the Worcester County Health Department. 410632-3495, www.worcesterlibrary.org
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
Tues., Jan. 14
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 finger plays. Geared to ages 0-5 years. 410-641-0650, www.worcesterlibrary.org
STORY TIME @ THE DELMARVA DISCOVERY MUSEUM
Worcester County Library - Pocomoke
Continued on Page 30
Branch, 301 Market St., 10:30 a.m. Stories, crafts and songs that feature one of the Delmarva Discovery Museum’s special animals. For ages 0-5 years. 410957-0878, 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
WHAT’S IT WORTH?
Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 2 p.m. Mike Ivankovich will introduce you, via Zoom, to “What Determines Value” — and reveal what your antiques, collectibles and treasures are worth today. Registration required: 410-208-4014.
PARKINSON’S SUPPORT GROUP
Atlantic General Neurology at the Atlantic Health Center, 9714 Healthway Drive, Berlin, 3:15-4 p.m. Providing discussions and mutual support, along with education on exercise, nutrition, coping techniques, medications and developments in treatment. Kay Kinnikin, 410641-4765
SONG CELEBRATION
Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 6 p.m. Bring songs to the library and share them with other players and writers in a welcoming and encouraging space. Originals encouraged. Listeners welcome. 410-6410650, www.worcesterlibrary.org
BOOK CLUB: ‘OONA OUT OF ORDER’ BY MARGARITA MONTIMORE
Tides & Vine, 106 W. Green St., Snow Hill, 6 p.m. An evening of books and wine. Must be at least 21 years of age. Pick up books from Tides & Vine or at the Snow Hill Library. 410-632-3495, http://www.worcesterlibrary.org
ATLANTIC COAST SPORTFISHING ASSOCIATION MONTHLY MEETING
American Legion Synepuxent Post 166, 2308 Philadelphia Ave., Ocean City, 7 p.m. Guest speaker Capt. Neil Brosnahan to speak on a variety of fishing topics. Food and refreshments available after 6 p.m. The pubic is cordially invited.
BEACH HEROES-OC
Tuesdays - Volunteer beach clean-up group meets from 9-10 a.m., year-round. Trash bags, grippers and gloves provided. Check the Facebook page “Beach Heroes-OC” for weekly meeting locations. All are welcome.
JEHOVAH’S WITNESSES MEETING
Tuesdays - Berlin Congregation of Jehovah’s Witnesses, 212 West St., Berlin, 7 p.m. www.jw.org
TAKE OFF POUNDS SENSIBLY
Tuesdays - Worcester County Health Department, 9730 Healthway Drive,
Berlin, 3:30-4:30 p.m. TOPS is a weekly support and education group promoting weight loss and a healthy lifestyle. 410289-4725
OC KNITTING CLUB
Tuesdays - Worcester County LibraryOcean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 10:30 a.m.
ARGENTINE TANGO PRACTICE
Tuesdays - Experienced dancers and others interested in watching or learning more are welcome, 7-9:30 p.m. No partner required. Info: TangobytheBeach.com.
ZUMBA TONING TUESDAYS
Tuesdays - Northside Park, 200 125th St., Ocean City, 5:30 p.m. Zumba with optional light weights. zumbajoyceoc@gmail.com
WEIGHT MANAGEMENT AND WELLNESS GROUP
Tuesdays - Holy Trinity Cathedral, 11021 Worcester Highway, 2-2:45 p.m. Use the weight loss program/app/plan of your choice. Free and open to everyone. 410-641-4882, www.htcanglican.org/activities.
Wed., Jan. 15
PLAY TIME
Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 10 a.m. Join in for imaginative play and social interaction. For ages 0-5 years. 410-2084014, www.worcesterlibrary.org
EASTERN SHORE SEWISTS
Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 10 a.m. Promoting the needle arts through sewing education, activities and textile crafts. For artisans of all skills levels. 410-6410650, www.worcesterlibrary.org
SENSORY STAY AND PLAY
Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 10:30 a.m. Get ready to squish, build, splash, shake and scoop through several fun stations. For ages 0-5 years. 410-524-1818, www.worcesterlibrary.org
BACKGAMMON CLUB
Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 10:30 a.m. Drop in for a game, whether you’re an expert or want to refresh your skills. Beginners welcome. 410-208-4014, www.worcesterlibrary.org
3RD ANNUAL BABY BINGO SHOWER AND LUNCHEON
Columbus Hall, 9901 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, 11:30 a.m. Doors open at 10:30 a.m., lunch served at 11:30 a.m. and bingo at 12:30 p.m. Cost is $45 Proceeds benefit the Grace Center. Bring a baby gift. Tickets, sponsorships and donations: Dee, 410-409-5660.
BREAST CANCER SUPPORT GROUP
John H. “Jack” Burbage, Jr. Regional
Cancer Care Center, 9707 Healthway Drive, Berlin, 1-2 p.m. For survivors and current patients battling breast cancer. Women Supporting Women, 410-5487880
MANGA AND MORE
Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 3:30 p.m. Come check out an episode of this week’s show, create a comic in that style and make a keepsake. For ages 12-18 years. 410-208-4014, www.worcesterlibrary.org
STORYTELLERS THEATER TROUPE
Worcester County Library - Snow Hill Branch, 307 N. Washington St., 5 p.m. Theater activities like improv, memorization, pubic speaking and learning about theater. Best for ages 6-18 years. 410-632-3495, www.worcesterlibrary.org
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.
Thurs., Jan. 16
CPAP MASK FITTING
Atlantic General Hospital’s Sleep Disorders Diagnostic Center, 9733 Healthway Drive, Berlin. Free clinic for patients who are having trouble adjusting to their CPAP equipment. Appointment required: Robin Rohlfing, 410-641-9726.
STORY TIME: A POLAR BEAR IN THE SNOW
Worcester County Library - Snow Hill Branch, 307 N. Washington St., 10:30 a.m. Stories, songs and rhymes. For ages 0-5 years. 410-632-3495, www.worcesterlibrary.org
STORY TIME: MS. ANGIE’S FAVES
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
REPUBLICAN WOMEN OF WORCESTER COUNTY’S JANUARY MEETING AND LUNCHEON
Worcester Technical High School, 6270 Worcester Highway, Newark, 11 a.m. Doors open at 10:30 a.m. David T. Stevenson leads the national effort opposing offshore wind and served on President Trump’s Environmental Protection Agency. Cost is $27. gopwomenofwc@gmail.com
NATURE LOVERS CRAFTING
Worcester County Library - Snow Hill Branch, 307 N. Washington St., 1 p.m. Nature themed crafts projects for adults. January: Snow Scenes. 410-632-3495, www.worcesterlibrary.org
3-D SNOWFLAKES
Worcester County Library - Pocomoke
Branch, 301 Market St., 2 p.m. Use up cycled book pages to create three dimensional snowflakes. Registration required: 410-957-0878. www.worcesterlibrary.org
MAGIC THE GATHERING
Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 3:30 p.m. Battle it out with sorcery, dragons and giants. Experienced and novice players welcome. BYOC recommended. For ages 12-18 years. 410-208-4014, www.worcesterlibrary.org
BORED TEACHERS: THE STRUGGLE IS REAL! COMEDY TOUR
Ocean City Performing Arts CenterRoland E. Powell Convention Center, 4001 Coastal Highway, 7 p.m. Cost is $55, $45 and $35. Tickets: https://www.etix.com/ticket/p/906172 03/bored-teachersthe-struggle-is-realcomedy-tour-ocean-city-oc-performingarts-center.
ONGOING EVENTS
CREATIVITY CORNER
Berlin library, 220 N. Main St., during January. Students engage in STEAM-related projects and crafts. For ages 12-18 years. 410-641-0650
I SPY LIBRARY SCAVENGER HUNT
Pocomoke library, 301 Market St., during January. Drop by to complete the I Spy Library game and enter for a chance to win a puzzle prize. For ages 6-18 years. 410-957-0878
SCAVENGER HUNT: SNOWMAN HUNT Ocean Pines library, 11107 Cathell Road, during January. Find the snowmen in the children’s area to win a prize. For families. 410-208-4014
TEENY ARTS
Snow Hill library, 307 N. Washington St., during January. A themed craft program available in the teen section all month long. January’s Teeny Art is “Pop Art.” For ages 12-18 years. 410-6323495
TEEN TIMESHARE
Ocean Pines library, 11107 Cathell Road, during January, 3 p.m. to close. Drop in and create a seasonal craft or study for a test in your own teen area. For ages 1218 years. 410-208-4014
Crossword answers from page 28
Small Engine Mechanic Year-round. Competitive Wages. 443-754-1047
PoolGeneral 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.
Call
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
Winter Rental
2 Office/Retail Spaces available in West Ocean City. Approximately 1656 sq. ft. and 1728 sq. ft. Call 443-497-4200
BUDGET
Commercial Space for Lease. 2-3 Units available, can be divided or joined. Approx. 800-1000 sq. ft. ea. Busy major road in Town of Berlin. Call 443-880-8885
Industrial Space Yard and Storage Shed. Approx. 10x25+/Route 90/Bishopville.
MISC./OTHER
browns and
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
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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
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WINTER STORM BLAIR
BRIAN SHANE/OC TODAY-DISPATCH
The downtown white marlin sculpture is pictured on N. Division Street Monday morning during one of the heavier bands of snow from Winter Storm Blair.
BRIAN SHANE/OC TODAY-DISPATCH
North Ocean City is pictured Monday at 100th Street and Coastal Highway, which was completely covered in snow during the morning hours.
BRIAN SHANE/OC TODAY-DISPATCH
The Jolly Roger Amusement Park’s pirate is pictured enduring the elements along with the famed Ferris wheel.
PHOTO COURTESY CONNIE ALDERFER
It’s a rare sight around here to see a snow-covered beach such as pictured above. The biggest accumulation occurred the Monday morning hours.
BRIAN SHANE/OC TODAY-DISPATCH
All was quiet on the Boardwalk Monday morning except for a few hearty residents exploring the elements and the uniqueness of snow on the boards.
STEVE GREEN/OC TODAY-DISPATCH
Berlin Public Works Director James Charles and the rest of his team were out early Monday morning plowing snow off town streets along with the State Highway Administration.
WINTER STORM BLAIR
There
a
BRIAN SHANE/OC TODAY-DISPATCH
were
few folks checking out the snow-covered Boardwalk Monday morning. Above, a man applies some of the first footprints on the fresh snow.
BRIAN SHANE/OC TODAY-DISPATCH
It was slow going in Ocean City’s residential neighborhoods Monday morning, as crews began removing snow. Pictured is north Ocean City’s Caine Woods community.
BRIAN SHANE/OC TODAY-DISPATCH
The Boardwalk Arch at N. Division Street is pictured with a representative from Tony’s Pizza serving a snow pie.
PHOTO COURTESY MICHAEL LECOMPTE
The accumulating snow and ice is pictured on Route 611 on the approach to Assateague Island Monday.
BRIAN SHANE/OC TODAY-DISPATCH
While the State Highway Administration maintains main roads like Coastal Highway, Ocean City’s Public Works Department is responsible for clear municipal roads, like above.
PHOTO COURTESY CHELSEA TYNDALL
Berlin Police Officer Brandon West is pictured tossing a snowball at Heron Park with children as well as Mayor Zack Tyndall, right. The mayor organized a community snowball fight to celebrate Monday’s snow day.
McCabe, Weisberg & Conway, LLC
312 Marshall Avenue, Suite 800 Laurel, MD 20707
www.mwc-law.com
SUBSTITUTE
TRUSTEES’ SALE OF IMPROVED REAL PROPERTY
5 EVERGREEN COURT BERLIN, MD 21811
Under a power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust from Kelley E. Galyen a/k/a Kelley E. Gaylen, dated December 26, 2006 and recorded in Liber 4859, folio 684 among the Land Records of Worcester County, MD, default having occurred under the terms thereof and at the request of the parties secured thereby, the undersigned Substitute Trustees will offer for sale 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 28, 2025 AT 3:55 PM
ALL THAT FEE SIMPLE LOT OF GROUND AND THE IMPROVEMENTS THEREON situated in Worcester County, Maryland and more fully described in the aforesaid Deed of Trust. The property is improved by a dwelling. The property, will be sold in an "as is" condition and subject to conditions, restrictions, easements, encumbrances and agreements of record affecting the subject property, if any, and with no warranty of any kind.
Terms of Sale: A deposit in the form of cashier's or certified check, or in such other form as the Substitute Trustees may determine, at their sole discretion, for $8,000 at the time of sale. If the noteholder and/or servicer is the successful bidder, the deposit requirement is waived. Balance of the purchase price is to be paid within ten (10) days of the final ratification of the sale by the Circuit Court for Worcester County, Maryland. Interest is to be paid on the unpaid purchase price at the rate of 5% per annum from date of sale to the date the funds are received in the office of the Substitute Trustees, if the property is purchased by an entity other than the noteholder and/or servicer. If payment of the balance does not occur within ten (10) days of ratification, the deposit will be forfeited as liquidated damages. The purchaser agrees that the property may be resold pursuant to an order of court, waives personal service upon themselves and/or any principal or corporate designee of any documents filed regarding the failure to pay the purchase price within ten (10) days of ratification and expressly agrees to accept service by first class mail of said documents at the address provided by the purchaser in the Memorandum of Sale. The purchaser will not be entitled to any surplus or profits arising from the resale even if they are the result of improvements made by the purchaser. There will be no abatement of interest due from the pur-
chaser in the event settlement is delayed for any reason. Taxes, ground rent, water rent, and all other public charges and assessments payable on an annual basis, including sanitary and/or metropolitan district charges, and front foot benefit charges, if applicable, to be adjusted for the current year to the date of sale, and assumed thereafter by the purchaser. Condominium fees and/or homeowners association dues, if any, shall be assumed by the purchaser from the date of sale. The purchaser shall be responsible for the payment of the ground rent escrow, if required. Cost of all documentary stamps, transfer taxes (including agricultural transfer taxes, if applicable), and all settlement charges shall be borne by the purchaser. The sale is subject to a post sale audit of the loan, including but not limited to an analysis of whether the borrower entered into a loan modification agreement, filed bankruptcy, reinstated or paid off the loan prior to the sale. The Substitute Trustees will convey either insurable or marketable title. If the Substitute Trustees are unable to convey insurable or marketable title or, the post sale audit concludes that the sale should not have occurred, or the sale is not ratified by the court for any reason, the purchaser’s sole remedy in law or equity shall be limited to the refund of the deposit without interest even if the purchaser has made improvements to the property. Upon refund of the deposit, the sale shall be void and of no effect, and the purchaser shall have no further claim against the Substitute Trustees. Purchaser shall be responsible for obtaining physical possession of the property. The purchaser at the foreclosure sale shall assume the risk of loss for the property immediately after the sale. (Matter #2013-42873).
Laura H. G. O'Sullivan, et al., Substitute Trustees
OCD-1/9/3t
Mayor & City Council
Ocean City, Maryland
BID SOLICITATION
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 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 Landscape Maintenance Services – Public Works South Tram Facility and Bay-
side 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 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 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 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 (Landscape 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
BID SOLICITATION
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 Northside Park Ceiling Grid Replacement and for said work to conform with the Proposal Documents.
BID Documents for the 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 Doc-
ument 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 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 THURSDAY, JANUARY 16TH, 2025, AT 3:00PM. Addendum will be posted by close of business on MONDAY, JANUARY 20TH, 2025.
Sealed BID Documents are due no later than 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 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 (Northside 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
RACHEL B HARRIS ESQ LAW OFFICE OF RACHEL B. HARRIS, LLC P O BOX 62 POCOMOKE CITY, MD 21851
NOTICE
OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS To all persons interested in the estate of JOHN FRANCIS MANNIEL III Estate No. 20459 Notice is given that DIANA TOLEDO MARTIN whose address is 619 HILLCREST DR POCOMOKE CITY, MD 218519507 was on DECEMBER 17, 2024 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of JOHN FRANCIS MANNIEL III who died on 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 17th 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.
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
NOTICE
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 OCD-12/26/3t
DAVID C. HARTY, ESQ.
8843 GREENBELT RD PMB 125 GREENBELT, MD 20770-2451
NOTICE TO CREDITORS 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
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Mayor & City Council Ocean City, Maryland
BID SOLICITATION
– P07-25
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 Turf Fertilization and Weed Control Services and for said work to conform with the Proposal Documents.
BID Documents for the 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@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 com-
pleteness 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 TUESDAY, JANUARY 14TH, 2025, AT 3:00PM. Addendum will be posted by close of business on TUESDAY, JANUARY 21ST, 2025.
Sealed BID Documents are due no later than 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 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 (Turf 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.
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EHRHART LAW, LLC
AMY E.W. EHRHART ESQ. 118 CARLISLE ST., STE. 202 HANOVER, PA 17331-2486
NOTICE
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
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NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS
To all persons interested in the estate of MARIE S. DEANGELIS Estate No. 20463 Notice is given that ERIC B. GARVEY whose address is 2006 CRANBOURNE RD., LUTHVLE TIMON, MD 21093-7016 was on DECEMBER 19, 2024 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of MARIE S. DEANGELIS who died on 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 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.
TERRI WESTCOTT, Register of Wills for Worcester County ONE W MARKET STREET ROOM 102 - COURT HOUSE
SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1074
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NOTICE
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
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NOTICE OF INTRODUCTION 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 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 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
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NOTICE 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.)
missioners’ Meeting Room, Room 1101 – Government Center, One West Market Street, Snow Hill, Maryland on 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
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Mayor & City Council Ocean City, Maryland
PROPOSAL
SOLICITATION
B04-25 – Information Technology Expansion and Remodel
The Mayor & City Council of Ocean City is seeking Proposals from qualified and experienced Vendors to provide for the Information Technology Expansion and Remodel and for said work to conform with the Proposal Documents.
BID Documents for the Information Technology Expansion and Remodel 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.
A pre-proposal meeting will not be applicable for this Invitation to BID. The last day for questions will be on THURSDAY, JANUARY 16TH, 2025 AT 3:00PM. Addendum will be posted by close of business on FRIDAY, JANUARY 17TH, 2025
Sealed BID Documents are due no later than MONDAY, JANUARY 27TH, 2025, BY 3:00PM. BID submissions will be opened, read aloud, and then remanded back to staff for further review at the MAYOR AND CITY COUNCIL WORK SESSION, ON TUESDAY, JANUARY 28TH, 2025, AT 1:00PM. BID’s are to be submitted to the Mayor and City Council, Attention: City Clerk; Room 230, 301 North Baltimore Avenue, Ocean City, MD 21842, and the
name of the Solicitation (Information Technology Expansion and Remodel) must be noted on the outside of the package. Late BID Documents will not be accepted.
Minority Vendors are encouraged to compete for the Award of the Solicitation.
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Chad & Nathan Ventures, LLC 122 Mcculloh St. Frostburg, MD 21532 v.
Annie Tindley Deberry 1937 S. Corning Street, Apt. 3 Los Angeles CA 90034
George Donald Tindley 1937 S. Corning Street, Apt. 3 Los Angeles CA 90034
Worcester County, Maryland Roscoe Leslie, County Attorney Government Center, Room 1103 1 W. Market St. Snow Hill, MD 21863
Unknown owner of property described as Item No. 12, Account No. 04-001184, Property description LOT DIDRICKSON FARM N SIDE LABOR CAMP ROAD, Deed Reference: 677/475, Assessed to Annie Tindley Deberry and George Donald Tindley, The Unknown Owner's heirs, devisees, and personal Representatives and their or any of their heirs, devisees, executors, administrators, grantees, assigns, or successors in right title and interest
All persons that have or claim to have any interest in the property described as No. 12, Account No. 04001184, Property description LOT DIDRICKSON FARM N SIDE LABOR CAMP ROAD, Deed Reference: 677/475, Assessed to Annie Tindley Deberry and George Donald Tindley
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR WORCESTER COUNTY STATE OF MARYLAND Case No.: C-23-CV-24-000328
ORDER OF PUBLICATION
The object of this proceeding is to secure the foreclosure of all rights of redemption in the following property described below and located in Worcester County, sold by the Collector of Taxes for the County of Worcester and the State of Maryland to the plaintiff in this proceeding: Account No.: 04-001184 assessed to Annie Tindley Deberry and George Donald Tindley
Brief Legal Address: LOT DIDRICKSON FARM N SIDE
LABOR CAMP ROAD
Deed Reference: 677/475
Full Legal Description: All that lot of land situate in the Fourth Election District of Worcester County in the section called Hog Quarter on the Northeast side of the outlet road aforesaid and adjoining and on the Northwest side of the lot of the said John S. Ayres described in the second descriptive paragraph of a deed to said Ayres from the said deceased dated December 26, 1946, recorded
in Liber C.W. N. No. 15, folio 460, and BEGINNING for the lot hereby conveyed at the West comer of said Ayres lot on the Southeast side of said outlet road and thence running in a straight line by and with the said Ayres lot in a Northeasterly direction 30 yards to the middle of a drain; thence by and with the middle of the drain 75 yards; thence in a southwesterly direction 30 yards to said outlet road; and thence by and with the Northeast side of the said road Southeasterly 65 yards to the beginning: containing one-half ( 1/2) acre, more or less.
The Complaint states, among other things, that the amounts necessary for redemption have not been paid.
It is thereupon this 2nd of January, 2025, by the Circuit Court for Worcester, County,
ORDERED, That notice be given by the insertion of a copy of this order in some newspaper having a general circulation in Worcester County once a week for 3 successive weeks, warning all persons interested in the property to appear in this Court by the 3rd day of March, 2025, and redeem the property described above and answer the Complaint or thereafter a final judgment will be entered foreclosing all rights of redemption in the property, and vesting in the plaintiff a title, free and clear of all encumbrances.
Beau H. Oglesby Judge, Circuit Court for Worcester County True Copy Test: Susan R. Braniecki Clerk of the Circuit Court Worcester County, MD OCD-1/9/3t _________________________________
REGAN J. R. SMITH ESQ WILLIAMS, MOORE, SHOCKLEY & HARRISON LLP
3509 COASTAL HWY. OCEAN CITY, MD 21842-3334
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 19982 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF DINO O. IACCHETTA
Notice is given that Lori A. Iacchetta, 13388 Rollie Rd. W, Bishopville, MD 21813-1129, was on December 30, 2024 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Dino O. Iacchetta who died on September 17, 2023, 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 30th 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.
Lori A. Iacchetta 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: January 9, 2025
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PETER S. BUAS, ESQ.
WILLIAMS, MOORE, SHOCKLEY & HARRISON, LLP
3509 COASTAL HIGHWAY OCEAN CITY, MD 21842
NOTICE
OF APPOINTMENT
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS
Estate No. 20470 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF DEBRA LEE RUBY
Notice is given that Jennifer Schmalzer, 707 York Rd., Apt. 8321, Towson, MD 21204-2930, was on January 02, 2025 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Debra Lee Ruby who died on November 14, 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 2nd day of July, 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.
Jennifer Schmalzer
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: January 09, 2025
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Mayor & City Council Ocean City, Maryland
PROPOSAL
SOLICITATION
B05-25 – Convention Center South Stairway Repairs
The Mayor & City Council of Ocean City is seeking Proposals from qualified and experienced Vendors to provide for the Convention Center South Stairway Repairs and for said work to conform with the Proposal Documents.
BID Documents for the Convention Center South Stairway Repairs 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.
A pre-proposal meeting will be held on WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 22ND, 2025 AT 10:00AM, IN THE CONVENTION CENTER CONFERENCE ROOM, 1ST FLOOR, 4001 COASTAL HIGHWAY, OCEAN CITY, MARYLAND 21842
The last day for questions will be on FRIDAY, JANUARY 31ST, 2025 AT 3:00PM. Addendum will be posted by close of business on FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 7TH, 2025
Sealed BID Documents are due no later than MONDAY, FEBRUARY 24TH, 2025, BY 10:00AM. BID submissions will be opened, read aloud, and then remanded back to staff for further review at the MAYOR AND CITY COUNCIL WORK SESSION, ON TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 25TH, 2025, AT 1:00PM. BID’s are to be submitted to the Mayor and City Council, Attention: City Clerk; Room 230, 301 North Baltimore Avenue, Ocean City, MD 21842, and the name of the Solicitation (Convention Center
South Stairway Repairs) must be noted on the outside of the package. Late BID Documents will not be accepted.
Minority Vendors are encouraged to compete for the Award of the Solicitation.
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WILLIAMS, MOORE, SHOCKLEY & HARRISON
CHRISTOPHER T. WOODLEY, ESQ.
3509 COASTAL HIGHWAY OCEAN CITY, MD 21842
NOTICE
TO CREDITORS OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE ESTATE NO. 20471
NOTICE IS GIVEN that the Register of Wills court of Lancaster County, Pennsylvania appointed Stephanie M. Berstein, 1166 S. Lefever Dr., Lititz, PA 17543-9373 as the Executrix of the Estate of John A. Moeller AKA: John A. Moeller Sr. who died on August 09, 2024 domiciled in Pennsylvania, America.
The Maryland resident agent for service of process is Christopher T. Woodley whose address is 3509 Coastal Hwy., Ocean City, MD 21842-3334.
At the time of death, the decedent owned real or leasehold property in the following Maryland counties: Worcester.
All persons having claims against the decedent must file their claims with the Register of Wills for Worcester County with a copy to the foreign personal representative on or before the earlier of the following dates: (1) Six months from the date of the decedent’s death; or (2) Two months after the foreign personal representative mails or delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claim within two months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. Claims filed after that date or after a date extended by law will be barred.
Stephanie M. Berstein 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 09, 2025
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NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 20467 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF ERIC GARFIELD GOLDEN
Notice is given that Erika Golden, 328 62nd St., NE, Apt. 302, Washington, DC 20019-2854, was on December 27, 2024 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Eric Garfield Golden who died on December 10, 2024, without a will.
Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal representative or the attorney.
All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent’s will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 27th 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.
Erika Golden 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: January 9, 2025
NOTICE
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OF APPOINTMENT
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 20465 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF ROBERT PATRICK WEINMAN
Notice is given that Shawn Patrick Weinman, 2 Ivy Ln., Berlin, MD 21811-1616, was on December 27, 2024 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Robert Patrick Weinman who died on November 27, 2024, with a will. Further information can be ob-
tained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal representative or the attorney.
All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent’s will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 27th day of 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.
Shawn Patrick Weinman
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: January 9, 2025
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NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 20464 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF DIANNE MARGARET WEBER
Notice is given that Barbara Walker, 10311 Quarter Deck Ln., Berlin, MD 21811-2760, was on December 30, 2024 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Dianne Margaret Weber who died on December 13, 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 30th 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.
Barbara Walker Personal Representative True Test Copy
Terri Westcott Register of Wills for Worcester County One W. Market Street Room 102 - Court House Snow Hill, MD 21863-1074
Name of newspaper designated by personal representative: Ocean City Digest Date of publication: January 9, 2025
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SMALL ESTATE
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS
To all persons interested in the estate of PATRICE JONES AYRES Estate No. 20422 Notice is given that GRANVIL PETE JONES whose address is 13 MARVIEW DR., BERLIN, MD 21811-1905 was on NOVEMBER 15, 2024 appointed personal representative(s) of the small estate of PATRICE JONES AYRES who died on OCTOBER 16, 2023 without a will.
Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal representative or the attorney.
All persons having any objection to the appointment shall file their objections with the Register of Wills within 30 days after the date of publication of this Notice. All persons having an objection to the probate of the will shall file their objections with the Register of Wills within six months after the date of publication of this Notice.
All persons having claims against the decedent must serve their claims on the undersigned personal representative or file them with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates:
(1) Six months from the date of the decedent’s death; or
(2) Thirty days after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claim within thirty days from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. Any claim not served or filed within that time, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter.
TERRI WESTCOTT, Register of Wills for Worcester County ONE W MARKET STREET ROOM 102 - COURT HOUSE SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1074
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NOTICE
OF PUBLIC HEARING BOARD OF ZONING APPEALS
TOWN OF OCEAN CITY, MARYLAND
Pursuant to the provisions of Chapter 110 of the Code of Ocean City, Maryland, hereinafter referred to as the Code, same being the Zoning Ordinance for Ocean City, Maryland, notice is hereby given that public hearings will be conducted by the Board of Zoning Appeals for Ocean City, Maryland in the Council Chambers of City Hall located on Baltimore Avenue and Third Street, in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland on:
Thursday, January 23, 2025 AT 6:00 PM
Pursuant to the provisions of Section 110-93(3), Powers of the Code, an application related to Section 30554(d)(3) has been filed to request an after-the-fact variance to reduce the Atlantic Coastal Bays Critical Area (ACBCA) Buffer Management Area (BMA) from 10 feet to 0.5 feet, an encroachment of 9.5 feet) for an afterthe-fact impervious deck/roof. The property is described as Lots 13, 14, 15, and 25, of the Hitchens-Trimper Development in Isle of Wight Plat. It is further described as being located on the west side of Coastal Highway and is locally known as Shotti’s Point at 3505 Coastal Highway, in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.
APPLICANT: JOSEPH MOORE, ATTY. FOR CHRIS SHANAHAN (BZA 2708 #24-09500006) AT 6:10 PM
Pursuant to the provisions of Section 110-93(2), Powers of the Code, an application related to Section 110-94(2)(b) has been filed to request a special parking exception to waive 13 out of 23 parking spaces for the proposed conversion of a fire house to a retail store. The property is described as Lots 1, 2, and 3, Block 109, of the Isle of Wight Land Company Plat. It is further described as being located on the northwest corner of Coastal Highway and 74th Street and is locally known as 7401 Coastal Highway, in the Town of Ocean City,
Maryland.
APPLICANT: AVRAHAM SIBONY (BZA 2710 #24-09400029) AT 6:20 PM
Pursuant to the provisions of Section 110-93(2), Powers of the Code, an application related to Section 110-94(2)(b) has been filed to request a special parking exception to waive 4 out of 5 required parking space for the conversion of a laundromat to a private office. It is further described as being located on the west side of Philadelphia Avenue and is locally known as 409 Philadelphia Avenue, Unit 31, in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.
APPLICANT: BRITTANI PHILLIPS (BZA 2711 #25-00001)
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-1/9/2t
SMALL ESTATE
NOTICE
OF APPOINTMENT
NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS
To all persons interested in the estate of D DENNIS W VOSS Estate No. 20466 Notice is given that D DARIN VOSS whose address is 914 BOUCHER AVE , ANNAPOLIS, MD 21403-2302 was on D DECEMBER 27, 2024 appointed personal representative(s) of the small estate of D DENNIS W VOSS who died on DECEMBER 12, 2024 without a will.
Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal representative or the attorney.
All persons having any objection to the appointment shall file their objections with the Register of Wills within 30 days after the date of publication of this Notice. All persons having an objection to the probate of the will shall file their objections with the Register of Wills within six months after the date of publication of this Notice.
All persons having claims against the decedent must serve their claims on the undersigned personal representative or file them with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates:
(1) Six months from the date of the decedent’s death; or
(2) Thirty days after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claim within thirty days from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. Any claim not served or filed within that time, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter.
TERRI WESTCOTT, Register of Wills for Worcester County ONE W MARKET STREET ROOM 102 - COURT HOUSE SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1074 OCD-1/9/1t
Dining Guide
■ PRICE RANGE: $, $$, $$$
■ RESERVATIONS: Reservations accepted
DOWNTOWN
South end to 28th Street
■ BUXY’S SALTY DOG SALOON DRY DOCK 28
28th Street, Ocean City, 410-289-0973, buxys.com, drydockoc.com
Destiny has a new home in Ocean City. From the ‘burgh to the beach, Buxy’s is your home away from Pittsburgh. Come see what all the locals already know and have known – Buxy’s is the place to come to meet friends, relax and be social with no attitudes. House specialties include “The” Cheesesteak Sub, 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
$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar
Easy to find with plenty of free parking, serving lunch, dinner and entire diverse menu until 1 a.m. Also nightly entertainment year-round and a great place to watch all the sports on an ocean of televisions including a giant high-def screen. Also four pool tables on site. Lunch and dinner and entire menu until 1 a.m. Open all year from 11:30 a.m.-2 a.m., seven days a week.
■ PIT & PUB
2706 Philadelphia Ave. and 12701 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, pitandpub.com Ocean City’s home of Pulled Pork and the finest barbecue, the legendary 28th Street Pit & Pub and the Northside Pit & Pub are known for serving up delicious smokehouse specialties. Grab a brew and enjoy the live sports action on one of the big screen TVs. Happy hour daily. Family-friendly atmospheres at both locations. Weekend entertainment.
MIDTOWN
29th to 90th streets
■ 32 PALM
32nd Street in The Hilton, Ocean City 410289-2525, 32palm.com
$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar
Elevated cuisine, locally sourced ingredients and allocated spirits are prominently featured in our lounge and dining room. Open year-round for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Routinely updated menus with the highest quality local ingredients for fresh seafood any time of the year!
■ THE BONFIRE
71st Street, Coastal Hwy., Ocean City, 410524-7171, thebonfirerestaurant.com
Celebrating 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.
■ ALBERTINO'S BRICK OVEN & EATERY
13117 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, 410-2502000, albertinosoc.com
$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar
Featuring the best brick oven pizza, always handmade with fresh ingredients, Italian-American mouth-watering seafood specialties, traditional Italian pasta dishes, apps, soups and salads. Full bar with large local craft beer selection.
■ CAROUSEL OCEANFRONT HOTEL & CONDOS 118th Street, Ocean City 800-641-0011, www.carouselhotel.com
The Carousel Oceanfront Resort offers a family friendly casual dining experience with their Reef 118 restaurant. Offering dinner Thursday through Sunday from 5-9 p.m., featuring AYCE Crab legs for $54.95. Serving breakfast on Saturdays and Sundays from 8 a.m. to noon. Their new "Go for 2" happy hour features $10 appetizers as a buy one get one free. $1 oysters during all open hours.
■ THE CRAB BAG
13005 Coastal Highway Ocean City, 410-2503337, thecrabbag.com
$$ | 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
$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar
A coastal casual farm to table restaurant with a fun dockside family friendly atmosphere. Menu changes with the seasons and cocktails are handcrafted with care. Bring the whole family for lunch or dinner along the canal. Kids playground available to keep the littles entertained.
■ VISTA ROOFTOP RESTAURANT 13801 Coastal Highway, located in the Fenwick Inn, Ocean City, 410-390-7905, vistarooftopoc.com
$$-$$$ | Full bar
Enjoy a wonderful meal overlooking the ocean and bay. Some of the most unique views in Ocean City. Steaks, seafood, burgers, soups, salads and lite fare. Happy hour, 3-6 p.m. New this year is a boozy brunch Saturdays and Sundays, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Live music.
■ CRABCAKE FACTORY BAYSIDE
Route 54, Fenwick Island, DE, 302-988-5000, CCFBayside.com
Same award-winning crab cakes and bloody marys. Enjoy waterfront dining. Full-service family restaurant, carry-out & sports bar. Outside seating available. Open daily year-round. Menu selections include crab cakes, prime rib, Phillystyle cheese steaks, various seafood, kids menu plus full breakfast menu.
■ DIRTY HARRY’S
100 Coastal Highway, Fenwick Island, DE, 302-539-3020, Beach-net.com/dirtyharrys
$ | Kids’ Menu | Full bar
Don’t let the name fool you, the food is home cooking at its finest. Owned and operated by Ginny Swann and family for 19 years. Popular for the breakfast but getting rave reviews for lunch and dinner, too.
■ NANTUCKETS
Route 1, Fenwick Island, DE, 302-539-2607, nantucketsrestaurant.com
Serving the beach great food and spirits for over 30 years. David and Janet Twining will wow you with the finest foods and drinks in the
area. You’ll be pleasantly surprised by what one of the coast’s finest dining establishments has in store for guests. Everything here is a house specialty.
■ TWINING’S LOBSTER SHANTY
Rte. 54, Fenwick Island, Del., 302-436-2305, twiningshanty.com
Reservations | Kids’ Menu
“A funky little place at the edge of town.” Classic New England fare, lobsters, steaks and burgers. Bird watching and magical sunsets await. Open for lunch and dinner. Reservations are suggested.
OCEAN PINES
■ CLUBHOUSE BAR AND GRILLE
100 Clubhouse Drive, Ocean Pines 410-6417222, Oceanpinesgolf.org/dining $$ | 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.
WEST OCEAN CITY
■ BREAKFAST CAFE
12736 Ocean Gateway, Route 50 east, West Ocean City, 410-213-1804, breakfastcafeofoc.com
All the traditional breakfast options available here in a casual, diner setting. Open daily closing at 2 p.m.
■ CANTINA LOS AGAVES MEXICAN GRILL 12720 Ocean Gateway #7, West Ocean City 410-390-3914, cantinalosagaves.com
$$ | Kid’s menu | Full bar
Ocean City’s newest Mexican restaurant and bar. Offering delicious and generous portions of the tastiest traditional and not so traditional #MexicanEats you have ever tried. Open daily at 11 a.m. Serving food until 9 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday. Bar open til 11 p.m.
■ DUMSER’S DAIRYLAND
West Ocean City: Route 50 east; Boardwalk locations: 501 S. Philadelphia Ave., 49th Street, 123rd Street, Ocean City, dumsersdairyland.com
This classic ice cream shop is a tradition for many families. Voted O.C.’s “Best Ice Cream” for the past 20 years, Dumser’s is celebrating decades of serving the shore, and the ‘40sstyle décor takes you back in time. With locations throughout Ocean City, treating your tastebuds to this signature homemade ice cream is easy. The 49th and 124th streets locations offer vast lunch and dinner menus (breakfast too at 124th) in addition to a wide variety of ice cream treats.
■ GREENE TURTLE WEST Route 611, West Ocean City, 410-213-1500 Proudly serving West Ocean City since January 1999, The Greene Turtle features a beautiful 80-seat dining room, large bar area with 54 TVs with stereo sound and game room with pool tables. With an exciting menu, The Greene Turtle is sure to please with delicious sizzling steaks, jumbo lump crab cakes, raw bar, homemade salads and more. Live entertainment, Keno, Turtle apparel, kids menu, carry-out.
■ HARBORSIDE BAR & GRILL
12841 Harbor Rd., West Ocean City, 410-2131846, weocharborside.com
$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar
Home of the original Orange Crush drink with an extensive menu offers a wide variety of appetizers, fresh seafood, steak & pasta entrees, as well as juicy burgers and sandwiches. Whether seeking a full dining experience or just a crush or two, the team will be sure to take excellent care of you and yours. 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.
FENWICK ISLAND
BRIEFS
Foundation promotion
TidalHealth has announced the promotion of Jessica Hales from Senior Director and President of the TidalHealth Foundation to Vice President, Chief Philanthropy Officer, and President of the TidalHealth Foundation. In her new role, Hales will continue to lead the foundation’s philanthropic efforts while expanding its strategic influence across the organization’s health services. The promotion also features elevation to the health system’s Executive Team. “Jessica’s unwavering commitment to our mission, coupled with her deep understanding of the power of philanthropy, has been instrumental in the growth and success of the TidalHealth Foundation,” said Steve Leonard, President/CEO of TidalHealth. “As Vice President and Chief Philanthropy Officer, she will continue to foster meaningful connections between our donors and the transformative healthcare services TidalHealth provides to our community.”
Hales, who has served as president of the TidalHealth Foundation since May 2022, has been a driving force in connecting donors with the hospital’s programs, facilities, and services. Under her leadership, the Foundation has secured signifi-
Continued on Page 44
Home inspections process key for both buyers, sellers
By Lauren Bunting Contributing Writer
Inspections are an important piece of the process when buying a home, and usually always a buyer expense. Buyers should know what exactly is being inspected when they order an inspection. In a basic home inspection, the inspector is going to cover areas such as structural, roof, plumbing, electrical systems, heating and air conditioning, test appliances and inspect crawl spaces.
Other inspections that may be added include tests for issues that can pose health risks like mold, radon, lead paint and asbestos. Termite inspections are also another inspection to add to the list. And, usually, fireplaces and any detached buildings, such as sheds, need to be specifically added.
Other questions a buyer should consider to ask their real estate agent are:
Who do they recommend for the home inspection and why?
Does the company cover all of the various inspections the buyer chooses to have performed, or do they need to hire different inspection companies?
Can they attend the inspection?
How long does the inspection take?
What are some of the common issues found during home inspections?
Can I still perform an inspection even if a home is listed “as-is”?
In some cases, sellers may choose to have a home inspection done before putting their home on the market to get more information about the condition upfront.
And, some sellers will also conduct all of the repairs suggested from that “pre-inspection”.
Or, some sellers may offer to cover the cost of home repairs as a seller concession when marketing their property.
But, a buyer can still decide to conduct their own home inspection even when a seller has provided a pre-inspection.
— Lauren Bunting is a licensed Broker with Keller Williams Realty Delmarva in Ocean City, MD.
Jessica Hales
Continued from Page 43
cant donations that have supported patient care initiatives, medical equipment, and community health outreach efforts.
In her expanded role, Hales will continue to oversee all philanthropic activities for TidalHealth, including major gifts, planned giving, donor stewardship, and fundraising campaigns. A key focus will be ensuring donors understand the direct impact their contributions make. She will continue to build and deepen relationships with both new and long-standing supporters, guiding them to areas where their gifts can make the most meaningful difference.
“Philanthropy is about more than just giving — it’s about connecting donors to
our mission and showing them how their contributions play a critical role in advancing healthcare on the Delmarva Peninsula,” Hales said. “Through this partnership with our donors, we can help ensure that TidalHealth continues to deliver excellent care while also enhancing the patient experience, expanding services like our Graduate Medical Education program, and advancing medical innovation.”
The growth of the TidalHealth Foundation under Hales’ leadership, including an expanded presence with the anticipated partnership with Atlantic General Hospital, will further solidify TidalHealth’s role as a leading healthcare provider in the region.
Berlin announces parking lot lease to increase supply
(Jan. 10, 2025) The Town of Berlin announced Wednesday the Mayor and Council have entered into a 10year lease agreement to create a new municipal parking lot.
Located at the corner of West and Washington streets, the lot is owned by the Esham family.
According to a press release issued by the town and Mayor Zack Tyndall, “the new parking facility is part of the town’s ongoing efforts to enhance accessibility and support the growth of the downtown business district. The first two years of the lease will be funded using American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds while the Town works to establish a sustainable funding plan for the remaining lease period.”
In November, the Berlin Mayor and Council assigned $64,102 from ARPA funding previously marked for the Rails and Trails phase to address the town’s parking supply.
“This new municipal parking lot will significantly increase parking capacity for our downtown business district and provide much-needed overflow parking during town events,” Tyndall said. “Based on conversations with our downtown businesses and the Berlin Chamber of Commerce, we know that a lack of accessible parking has limited the ability of our businesses to grow and thrive. This investment will help strengthen an already vibrant business district and encourage further growth and reinvestment in our community.”
Tyndall noted in the press release the town’s parking shortage was consistently noted in the town’s strategic planning process last year. The release stated, “In a SWOT (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats) analysis, ‘parking’ was highlighted as both a weakness and an opportunity. Feedback gathered from residents and stakeholders led to the incorporation of parking as a driving strategy and key action step within the Town’s strategic plan. The parking lot will also play a key role in accommodating the changing landscape of Berlin’s downtown area.”
Tyndall noted the town’s evolving demographics make the lot more needed than ever.
“As properties begin to include more residential opportunities above their commercial buildings, this municipal lot will offer an essential resource to meet the demand for residential parking,” said Tyndall.
The 10-year lease accord was negotiated with the assistance of the Parking Subcommittee, created by Mayor Tyndall to explore solutions for improving parking in downtown Berlin. The subcommittee, which included Councilmembers Jay Knerr
and Steve Green, worked closely with the Esham family to bring this project to fruition.
“The Town of Berlin extends its gratitude to the Esham family for their partnership in supporting this important initiative and to the Mayor and Council for their leadership and dedication in addressing parking challenges,” said Tyndall in the press release.
“The town is confident that this new parking lot will serve as a catalyst for continued economic growth and provide lasting benefits for residents, businesses, and visitors alike.”
When asked on social media whether the lot will be paved or gravel, Tyndall said Wednesday it will feature a pervious surface.
SUBMITTED IMAGE/OC TODAY-DISPATCH
A 10-year lease agreement has been signed by Berlin and the private property owner to make the vacant lot at the corner of West and Washington streets a municipal parking lot to serve the town.
Berlin skate park gifted $20K anonymously
Gavin Knupp Foundation also gives $14,000 after court-ordered dissolution
By Tara Fischer Staff Writer
(Jan. 10, 2025) Last month, the Berlin skate park initiative closed out the year with large donations totaling $34,000.
Approximately $14,000 came from the Gavin Knupp Foundation and $20,000 from an anonymous local donor. Tony Weeg of We Heart Berlin, the nonprofit advocating for the construction of a skate park at Heron Park, said the donations will pay the final $7,500 bill from the design phase and the $25,000 construction documents.
The skate park is proposed to be 19,000 square feet including parking, landscaping and seating areas. Weeg said there will be 17,000 square feet of concrete associated with elements of the park, which will include a bowl and a variety of features for skaters of all levels.
The Gavin Knupp Foundation was created following the tragic passing of local teenager Gavin Knupp, who was killed in a hit-and-run in the summer of 2022. The organization was founded by the victim’s mother, Tiffany. In 2023, embezzlement and theft allegations surfaced in connection to the foundation. Tiffany Knupp
took an Alford Plea last September, while not an admission of guilt, acknowledges the stack of evidence to convict her. Part of the deal stipulates that the foundation would be dissolved, and any remaining funds donated to local charities. One such charity was the Berlin skate park effort.
“The money from the Gavin Knupp Foundation comes with a lot of gravity and determination,” Weeg said. “To make sure that we take the memory of the child and go forward and make the skate park happen is even more in our face now. This is no longer about receiving a couple of donors here and there … You have to imagine that this is something Gavin would have spent time on and would have been interested in, and to have his name attached to it now is pretty awesome.”
Weeg was also surprised by an additional $20,000 from a private donor in the area. The We Heart Berlin founder added that the contributor said this money is a “down payment” and they want to continue donating, but a possible total amount was not disclosed.
The skate park project’s next phase, following construction document securement, is land grading, adding fill dirt to the site to increase the height of some portions of the park, and building the needed drainage. Weeg hopes to accomplish
this task through sweat equity.
“The exciting part about that is once construction documents are here and we have direction on that, we can start to seek local donations of time and effort that will eventually erase dollars off the total, around $170,000,” he said.
Another $160,000 from concrete flatwork could also be eliminated, once construction gets underway, Weeg expects the concrete to be provided by a local company. Of the estimated $975,000, about $330,000 could be taken off the cash amount via time and effort contributions.
“It's going to be a team effort and a group effort from everyone around here but I think we’re on the path [to the skate park],” Weeg said.
Weeg intends to contact various foundations, such as the Tony Hawk Foundation, which supports skate park construction in underserved communities, and the Salisburybased Donnie Williams Foundation, during the next 12 months to secure additional project funds.
Another avenue could be grants recommended to Weeg by Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development Secretary Jake Day. For instance, several hundred thousand dollars from the Strategic Demolition Grant could be utilized for pre-development costs, like site preparation for the skate park, if awarded. According to Weeg, Day added that the Town of Berlin received $500,000 from the Strategic
Demolition Grant through the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) FY2022 State Revitalization Program for the deconstruction of the former Tyson Plant on the Heron Park property, where the skate park will be situated.
“It is a natural progression of the department of the state to continue funding the increase of productivity and the beautification of the park,” Weeg said.
Day also mentioned the Community Legacy Grant for construction costs, of which he said the project would “definitely be eligible for the actual buildout of the park.” The project may also qualify for the Seed Community Development Anchor Institution Fund in the several hundred-thousand-dollar range. However, the DHCD secretary noted that it requires a college or hospital to apply, which he suggested could be Atlantic General Hospital.
The town’s annual Program Open Space Development Plan also included the skate park project. Town Administrator Mary Bohlen said last month that the plan “prioritizes upcoming and future planned projects for the town’s parks, with the intent to apply [for grant funding].”
According to Bohlen, the information necessary for an application on behalf of the skate park was not prepared in time for the last cycle. However, she added that “provided the appropriate information is ready for a grant application, the town would intend to make an application to the Community Parks and Playgrounds program (under Program Open Space) for fiscal year 2026.”
The grant funds would come through the Maryland Department of Natural Resources from its Open Space and Community Parks and Playgrounds Program, which DNR explains “provides flexible grants to local governments to respond to the unmet need for assistance to rehabilitate, expand or improve existing parks, create new parks, develop environmentally oriented parks and recreation projects, or purchase and install playground equipment in older neighborhoods and intensely developed areas throughout the state.”
The town may submit a skate park application to the Community Parks and Playgrounds Program for FY26, due in late summer this year. Awardees will be notified in spring 2026. Bohlen maintained Berlin intends to apply, but nothing is “set in stone.”
The snowstorm earlier this week saw Weeg at Heron Park, the site of the future skating hub.
“It was amazing to be at Heron Park seeing hundreds of kids sledding downhill, and I can just imagine all those kids wanting to be at the skate park in the summertime,” he said. “It just goes to show when you build it, they will come. We know it will be great for Berlin, but seeing that many kids on boards going downhill was a good precursor to
Donations will support healthcare services within community, hospital reports
By Tara Fischer Staff Writer
(Jan. 10, 2025) Hundreds of charitable daredevils plunged into the icy ocean last week on New Year’s Day for Atlantic General Hospital’s 31st Annual Penguin Swim to raise money for local healthcare.
With over 700 individual and team participants, the event, hosted at the Princess Royale at 91st Street, exceeded their donation goal, accumulating roughly $121,000, a Jan. 6 press release issued by AGH said.
Top fundraisers included Leila Attia in the individual youth category, who raised $1,240; Matthew Lynch from the individual adult group with $1,070; The Happy Horns with $6,059 from the youth and family team level; and OC Ravens Roost #44 with $12,150 in the community group category.
AGH Foundation Community Relations Coordinator Laura Powell said the Ravens Roost fundraises for the chilly event all year round and has contributed more than $182,000 to the AGH Penguin Swim over the last 16 years.
Powell was quick to spotlight legacy sponsor Bull on the Beach, who has acted as the title sponsor since the event’s creation 31 years ago, and has raised more than $725,000 during that period. The Bull team raised $25,000 this year.
Powell noted the weather was warmer than anticipated for this year’s January afternoon dip. The forecast had not predicted sunny skies, yet when organizers observed that the clouds had drifted away, they took to social media for some lastminute promotion. The event coordinator said that between New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day, an additional 350 people registered.
“The beach was packed … Having the weather be so nice is encouraging, and it’s such a fun way to start the new year,” Powell said. “The swim isn’t just about the funds; it’s about the friends and the family. It’s about tradition.”
Apart from hundreds plunging into the freezing Atlantic, the Penguin Swim offers fun at every turn. One way organizers achieve this is through a costume contest. Some highlights included Thomas Riccardi in the best-dressed youth category as a banana, Butch Lorditch as Poseidon for the best adult costume and Cinzia Lombardo and Hannah Dulas as “Old Bay and Crab” in the couples contest.
“It’s very cool to see people come
SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH
Eager swimmers are pictured taking a plunge into the Atlantic Ocean on New Year’s Day to raise funds for Atlantic General Hospital. This year, participants raised roughly $121,000 for the community hospital.
Oyster fritters, a football favorite
By Deborah Lee Walker Contributing Writer
(Jan. 10, 2025) ‘Tis the season for football fans to find out who reigns supreme.
Finger foods and buffets allow one to munch on delicious goodies without missing a minute of nail-biting action.
There is nothing that goes better with a swig of ice-cold beer than fried fish. The seasoned crunchy exterior and juicy flesh are a match hard to beat.
The Eastern Shore is known for its seafood and fried fish is at the top of the list. That being said, the joy of buffets is the assortment of tasty little morsels and fillets of fried fish do not exactly fit this description. But fried fish balls are a great way to get the goodness of fish in a small bite.
Oyster fritters are another option. Oysters are generally encased in a seasoned pancake batter and fried until crispy.
While this sounds yummy, I can’t help think about oyster stuffing. It’s so scrumptious and a pity that it is only served once a year.
Oyster fritters made with traditional stuffing, packed with a whole juicy oyster,
and deep-fried is original and so, so good. This superlative oyster fritter will dazzle even the most discerning oyster fritter connoisseurs.
So, what is the secret to a fantastic fritter? Most cooks chop the oysters and add them to the batter. But if you really want that oyster essence, leave them whole. It only takes a few minutes to fry the fritter, and the oyster itself remains soft and plump.
The batter is also crucial. Pancake batter has a hint of sweetness which compliments the salty oyster. In addition, pancake batter is more forgiving than flour. If flour is overmixed, it has a tendency to become tough.
But classic stuffing has so much flavor and texture. The sauteed onions, garlic, and celery compliments the stuffing. A touch of chicken and oyster broth smooths the consistency of the stuffing and allow the oyster to be the star.
The temperature of the oil is crucial for successful fried fritters. The ideal temperature for the oil should be 375º F. You want the fritters to cook fast, so the outside obtains the coveted crunch. If the oil is not enough, the batter absorbs the oil and the fritter becomes soggy.
Do not overcrowd the pan with fritters. Otherwise, the temperature of the oil will drop, which again will yield a soggy texture.
Once the fritters are done, place them on a cooling rack so they can achieve the ultimate state of crispiness, not on paper towels.
While the oysters are resting on the cooling rack, add a dusting of salt and pepper.
In closing, football playoffs are around the corner. Oyster fritters will be in great demand and sure to score with guests and family. Enjoy!
Oyster Fritters
Ingredients
1-pound shucked oysters, reserve oyster liquid
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/3 cup finely chopped yellow onion
1/3 cup finely chopped celery
6 cups classic stuffing, do not use cubed stuffing
1 cup chicken broth
3 large eggs, divided 2 teaspoons cold water
1 cup flour
3 cups unseasoned panko bread crumbs
kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
3 tablespoons canola oil, and enough for frying
1. In a large cast iron skillet, heat 3 tablespoons of canola oil over
medium-low heat. Saute vegetables for 4 minutes. Remove veggies from pan and set aside. Using paper towels, wipe the inside of the skillet.
2. Place oysters in a mesh strainer over a bowl. Set aside.
3. Heat 2-inches of canola oil in the skillet over medium-high heat.
4. In a medium bowl, combine 1 egg, reserved oyster broth, chicken broth, sauteed veggies, stuffing, and salt to taste. Mix well. If stuffing is dry, add more chicken broth.
5. Dredging station: a small bowl with remaining 2 eggs and 2 teaspoons of water. Mix well. In a pie pan, combine panko and flour, mix well.
6. Take a small amount of seasoned dressing, make an indentation, and place the oyster inside and cover it up with stuffing. You only want enough stuffing to cover the oyster.
7. Carefully place fritters in hot oil and cook for 2-3 min., constantly turning.
8. Place fritters on cooling and dust with kosher salt and ground pepper.
Secret Ingredient – Originality It is better to fail in originality than to succeed in imitation.
- Herman Melville
Hundreds take New Year’s plunge for Atlantic General
Continued from Page 47
and see how people are dressed,” Powell said.
Organizers also note some of the standout participants each year. Robert Reese, at 80 years old, was recorded as the most senior swimmer, four-month-old Zachary Tybrowski was the youngest, and Ansley Heckscher from Boulder, Wyoming, traveled the farthest.
Powell added that AGH partnered with the Town of Ocean City this year and integrated OC’s 150th-year celebration into its 31st Penguin Swim promotional logo.
“One of the penguins that form the number one has a scarf on it, and the Town of Ocean City’s 150th logo is in that scarf,” the event coordinator said.
Preparation for the swim begins each summer and includes some kickoff festivities. For the fourth year, AGH hosted a puppy swim at the Residence Inn by Marriot on 61st Street in Ocean City during the second week of October, right before the hotel closed the pool. Participants registered their dogs for $20, and the pups were encouraged to splash around. Powell said the event is the “happiest two hours of the off-season.”
The 31st Annual Penguin Swim had additional sponsors, including Ocean City Tourism, AGH Auxiliary, D3 Corp, Princess Royale Oceanfront and Resort Condominiums, WBOC, AGH Medical Staff, Chris Parypa Photography, Duffie Boatworks, WMDT, Wilmington University, Ocean City Elks Lodge #2645, and more. Ryan Kirby and Caitlin Evans acted as the event co-chairs.
“We live in such a great community,” Powell said. “Year after year and event after event, the community never lets us down. They always come through and give us the best possible outcome.”
Emily Tunis, Atlantic General Hospital Foundation chair, agreed with Powell.
“We’re thrilled with the community response for this year’s Penguin Swim,” said Tunis, who served as master of ceremonies for the postevent banquet. “And, we’re so appreciative of the generosity of our individual and team fundraisers and sponsors. Their contributions directly benefit this community, allowing Atlantic General Hospital to invest in the technology, clinical staff and infrastructure necessary to provide safe, high quality care. I can’t say thank you enough.”
Raoul Wallenberg’s efforts to rescue Jews in Budapest
By Peter Ayers Wimbrow III Contributing Writer
(Jan. 10, 2025) Today, 80 years ago, Swedish diplomat Raoul Gustaf Wallenberg reported to Soviet Marshal Rodion Malinovsky’s headquarters in Debrecen, Hungary. Before he left for the Soviet marshal’s headquarters, he said, “I’m going to Malinovsky’s ... whether as a guest or prisoner, I do not know yet.” Unfortunately, it was the latter. He was then transported to Moscow, ultimately arriving at the notorious Lubyanka Prison in Moscow on Jan. 21, 1945, where he was held in cell number 123.
Raoul Wallenberg was born in the summer home of his maternal grandparents, Per Johan and Sophie Wising near Stockholm, Sweden, on Aug. 4, 1912. His father, Raoul Oscar Wallenberg, was a Swedish naval officer who died of cancer three months before his son was born. His mother remarried Frederic Von Dardel and they had a son, Guy Von Dardel, and a daughter, Nina Lagergren.
The Wallenberg family was a very, very wealthy and influential Swedish family. After his graduation from high school, and eight months com-
pulsory service in the Swedish army, his paternal grandfather, Gustaf Wallenberg, sent Raoul to Paris to continue his education.
After a year in Paris, in 1931, he began studying architecture at the University of Michigan. Upon graduation, in 1935, he returned to Sweden, where, with his family connections, he entered the business world. Eventually, he secured a position at the Central European Trading Company, an export-import company owned by Kálmán Lauer, a Hungarian Jew.
As Hungary’s association with Germany became closer and tighter, it began enacting laws similar to the Reich’s “Nuremberg Laws,” restricting Jews’ rights, and essentially relegating them to the status of second-class citizens. Because of this, Mr. Lauer could no longer travel to Hungary as freely nor as easily. Therefore, Wallenberg’s trips to Hungary increased in frequency, to conduct the company’s business and to check on Mr. Lauer’s family. He was spending so much time in the country that he learned the language.
As the war began to turn against
by Steve Green
AThe Adventures of Fatherhood
nother installment of some “I see you …” thoughts over the last few weeks. I intend this as more of a “I see you and I feel you” type of observations. We are all in this parenting journey together and a bit of recognition and appreciation goes a long way.
• I see you … parents with mixed emotions about snow days. Happy for your kids for all these days off from school, but after one or two days it’s time for some normalcy and resuming of normal schedules
• I see you … tired dads wondering why I left the list at home wandering the aisles of the grocery store at 8 p.m.
• I see you … parents waiting in the car early in the morning while your teen runs into Dunkin’ for a pre-school snack or drink. Some of you are on your phones. Some of you just staring off into the distance. Some probably wondering why this stop is even necessary.
• I see you … parents of teens posting Facebook memories of your kid much younger during the toddler years. If you are like me, you have to come realization it was so much easier overall then. It was more difficult from a physical standpoint because they were so active and a danger to themselves, but the mental anguish of raising teens is far more exhausting than those simpler days.
• I see you … parents leaving the daycare center next to my office. I remember well the deep breath exhale of leaving the kid(s) behind to start the day.
• I see you … parents full of second guessing and guilt about decisions. I’m the worst at this constant questioning of judgments and reactions. I am working to learn to trust the gut, listen to the mind and heart and move forward.
• I see you … parents reviewing
your teen’s checking account statements with far more questions than answers about expenses.
• I see you … folks wondering why showers take a minimum of 15 minutes for teens. I often consider turning off the hot water just to mess with my 16-year-old kid and teach him a lesson. For years, I have told him about limits of hot water, but he doesn’t believe me. One of these days I will do it and my guess is it will have a chilly impact.
• I see you … parents rolling through the drop-off at school and feeling the pressure of the early-morning rush, Combine the chaos of getting kids to school on time with your own plans for the day, it’s not always easy. In my case, each day is different. One morning this week I resisted drinking my coffee so I could have it for the ride to school with Carson. As I was leaving the driveway, I realized I forgot it. I assumed I left it on the counter in the house until I got home later and realized I left it on the asphalt. My hands were full, so I set it down and forgot within seconds about it. It was still there when I got home from work.
• I see you … parents having a conversation with your teen and wondering where he or she is looking because clearly the focus is not on you. When this happens to me, I intentionally say the most ridiculous thing so I can confirm my 16-year-old is not listening. During one period of heightened frustration, I told him it was best to be without his phone for a month. A few minutes went by without a reaction. Eventually, something registered and he said, “what was that about my phone again?” There may be a little bit of hearing going on, but there’s next to no listening happening.
Another example was last weekend when I called him at boarding school to remind him we would be there the following weekend. When we were wrapping up the chat, he asked when
he would see us again and wondered when we were going skiing. In that case, I don’t think he was hearing me or listening to me.
• I see you … sports dads talking to your child about their game as they walk off the soccer field, offering tips and suggestions on the kid’s level of play and energy level. Take it from me: this is the last thing your young athletes need. I know because I, too, did not have enough restraint to let my kid catch his breath after a game or practice. I was able to wait until we got in the car to head home, but I was often informing him of my views before he got out of the parking lot. I regret those reactions looking back. It’s not what he needed from his dad.
• I see you … mothers slowly walking through the grocery store aisle after work. I assume there’s an enjoyment of the peace and quiet after a long day before heading home with a load of groceries and responsibilities.
• I see you … fathers running to get carryout at a restaurant for the family but first having a drink to just chill and relax before returning home.
• I see you … teachers seemingly starting each day with fresh perspective and positivity. This can’t be easy – especially on Mondays — but I know in my case it’s appreciated.
• I see you … parents animatedly walking in the early evenings with friends or on a phone call. I have no idea what’s being said, but I imagine it involves a story or two about children. It appears to a stranger to be a serious vent session among friends, which we all need every now and again. Add exercise to the equation and it’s a good use of time if you ask me.
(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.)
Continued from Page 49
the Axis, and the losses started increasing, the Kingdom of Hungary desperately sought to extricate itself from, what it perceived as, a “no-win” situation. It began (not so) secret talks with the U.S.S.R. When Hungary’s German ally learned of its perfidy, it demanded that Prime Minister Dr. Miklós Kállay de Nàgykálló be replaced with Gen. Döme Sztójay. Gen. Sztójay had served in the Imperial and Royal Army of Austria-Hungary, during World War I, and since 1935 had been ambassador to Germany. He had also served as minister of defense from 1933 - 1935.
In addition, the Germans demanded that Jews be sent to Germany “to work.” Anti-Semite Andor Jaross was appointed minister of the interior. With this change in the government, came a change in the policy toward Hungary’s Jewish population. SS Major Adolph Eichmann arrived in Budapest, and together with Interior Minister Jaross and his underlings, László Baky and László Endre, ensured that train loads of Jews began their one-way journey from Hungary to Auschwitz — not to Germany “to work.”
The three Hungarians earned the appellation, “The Deportation Trio.” Between May 15 and July 9, 437,402 Jews — at the rate of 12,000 per day — were sent to the death camps, where 90% them would die. During this time, word of the German extermination efforts was beginning to leak.
As a result, U.S. President Franklin D. Roosevelt established the War Refugee Board and sent a representative, Iver C. Olsen, to Stockholm, Sweden, to do something. Eventually, Wallenberg was selected to go to Budapest, as part of the Swedish legation. He arrived on July 11. Hungary’s Regent, Adm. Miklos Horthy had already halted the trains, under intense pressure from the U.S. and U.K., which included several American bombing attacks on Budapest, with the promise of more to come if the trains weren’t halted.
Upon Wallenberg’s arrival in Hungary, the Swedish Embassy began issuing "protective passports" to as many of the remaining 230,000 Jews as possible. These "protective passports" identified the bearers as Swedish subjects awaiting repatriation and thus prevented their deportation.
With money supplied by the War Refugee Board, Wallenberg rented 32 buildings in Budapest, and put signs on them, such as "The Swedish Library" and "The Swedish Research Institute." He hung Swedish flags on the front of the buildings and declared them to be Swedish diplomatic territory, protected by diplomatic immunity. These buildings eventually housed almost 10,000 people.
In August 1944, Adm. Horthy removed Gen. Sztójay from his position and replaced him with Gen. Count
WORLD WAR II
Géza Lakatos de Csìkszentsimon.
Gen. Lakatos had succeeded Gen. Count Gusztàv Jàny as commander of the remnants of Second Army, after it had been destroyed on the Don River and returned to Hungary in 1943.
After his appointment, Gen. Lakatos reopened talks with the Allies and the Soviets. On Oct. 15, 1944, Adm. Horthy announced on national radio that Hungary had executed an armistice with the Soviet Union. As in the case of the Italian perfidy, Hitler had anticipated these events and was prepared.
A team, commanded by SS Major Otto Skorzeny (Mussolini’s rescuer), kidnaped the admiral’s son, Miklós Jr. (“Miki”) and then, with four King Tiger tanks, approached Adm. Horthy’s headquarters on Castle Hill in Budapest. The admiral knowing he had no means to contest the German armor, issued orders that, “. . . no re-
sistance should be made.”
He was then told to sign a typewritten statement renouncing the armistice and abdicating in favor of the Nazi-style Arrow Cross Party leader, Count Ferenc Szálasi. This made Wallenberg’s task even more difficult as now he had to deal not only with the Germans, but with the Hungarian Arrow Cross Party members, who were now running the Hungarian government.
Once Count Szálasi and the Arrow Cross Party took power, the trains started running again. But Wallenberg was undeterred. He went to the trains and distributed the “passports” to all he could reach, and told everyone with a “passport” to leave the train and walk to the waiting Swedish vehicles.
On Dec. 26, 1944, Budapest was surrounded by Marshal Malinovsky’s Second Ukrainian Front. Trapped in
the Hungarian capital, in addition to the 800,000 civilians, were approximately 40,000 German and 50,000 Hungarian soldiers.
The fate of Raoul Wallenberg is known only to a few Soviets. What is known is that Deputy Commissar for Defense, and future Soviet Premier, Nikolai Bulganin, issued a warrant for Wallenberg’s arrest, which was served at Marshal Malinovsky’s headquarters.
He was then transported by train from Debrecen through Romania to Moscow. A report of Wallenberg’s death, dated July 17, 1947, was released by the Soviets, on Feb. 6, 1957. His passport, cigarette case, and other personal items were returned to his family in 1989.
Raoul Wallenberg’s memory lives on in street names, schools, parks, plazas, squares monuments, memorials, and plaques in countries around
the world. His name is included in the Garden of the Righteous Among Nations at Yad Vashem, on the Mount of Remembrance, in Jerusalem.
The United States, in 1981, Canada, in 1985, Israel, in 1986, and Australia, in 2013, conveyed honorary citizenship upon him. Raoul Wallenberg Day is observed in Colorado, Connecticut, Illinois, Iowa, Maine, Maryland, Michigan, Nebraska, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, West Virginia, and Wyoming. Stamps honoring him have been issued by the United States, Canada, and Australia.
Next week: Vistula-Oder Offensive 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.
Things I Like... vanishing vanishing OCEAN CITY
By Steve Green
Waking up in the middle of the night to see if it’s snowing
A teenager reading on his/her own
That the Ravens make the playoffs most years
A historian’s amazing memory
Listening to talk radio when by myself
Coming home to a clean house after work
YouTube highlights of games I miss
Well-trained dogs in public places
Caffeine after a few days without
A eulogy that’s memorable years later
When the forecasters gets it right
With Bunk Mann
Eight blocks of Boardwalk from North Division to 1st streets were rebuilt in concrete and widened by 10 feet between January and April in 1955.
The Mayor and Council had decided to replace the wood with concrete due to maintenance costs. The George Bert Cropper Company did the work for $43,819 and used some of the timber salvaged to widen the northern end of the Boardwalk.
The lower end of the Boardwalk would remain concrete until it was replaced with wood during the late-1990s.
To purchase one of Bunk Mann’s books, click over to www.vanishingoc.com.
Photo courtesy Bob Burns
WPS STUDENTS WEAR RED
Worcester
School
recently showed up in a sea of red in support of
Over the past few months, natural disasters have devastated the Southeast, leaving many Americans without basic needs such as food, water, shelter, and medical supplies. During times like this, the American Red Cross offers aid and supplies to those in need. Students participated enthusiastically, bringing in donations in exchange for the opportunity to wear casual clothing instead
their
SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH
Pictured in the front are Upper School teacher Paul Cyryca, sophomores Gabriella Damouni and Isha Garg and Head of School Dr. John McDonald. In the back are sophomores Sydney Parker and Emma Nordstrom.
SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH
WPS 6th graders Tucker Webster, Rawnak Brar, Dax Phillips, Arian Zheng, Cole Bergey and Soloman Prosser were feeling the love by wearing red in support of the Red Cross.
SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH
WPS 2nd graders Harper Zervakos, Claire Leiner, Charleigh Jackson, Caroline McCready and Savannah Baker were excited to support the Red Cross by wearing the color red.
SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH
WPS freshmen Rani Yonker, Sam Kuon, Chloe Holland, Ellery Given, Genia Fedarkevich, Bella Forman, Nora Gorfinkel and Harper Hertrich shared the love while dressed in red to support the Red Cross.
Preparatory
(WPS) students
the Red Cross.
of
standard uniforms. WPS 4th-grade students dressed in red to support the Red Cross.
Pictured from the left are Landon Moreland, Summer Nichols, Stella Correa, Alice Diorio, Emma Abbott, Emery Anthony, Hristina Gjoni, Ellie Bookwalter, Hadley Hagner, Emily Leiner, Ian Laroche and Auggie Hall.
SUBMITTED PHOTO/ OC TODAY-DISPATCH
Opinions
State budget woes rolling downhill
If nothing else, this year’s session of the Maryland General Assembly will be interesting for the inevitable financial gymnastics that legislators will have to perform to eliminate a deficit of at nearly $3 billion and produce a balanced budget.
All that and more is expected to be handled in the legislature’s standard 90-day term, which ends on April 7.
This area’s all-Republican delegation to the legislature is warning that any attempt by the Democratic majority to solve the deficit problem with higher taxes certainly isn’t going to work for them.
The reality is such an approach wouldn’t work for anyone, because the gap between revenue and spending is so massive that any increase in revenue would have to be accompanied by deep cuts in some popular programs.
The state’s dire financial situation, which has been building for years, is also weighing on the minds of local elected officials, who know that a significant portion of the problem could roll downhill to them.
Already, Gov. Wes Moore has announced that he will be cutting $2 billion in spending, although he has yet to identify the programs and services he has targeted.
Government benefits and services are on the chopping block, as is education spending, which has soared with the advent of the state’s Blueprint for Maryland’s Future. In addition, legislators will be looking at spending on roads, bridges and highways.
In all instances, Worcester County and local governments will feel the impact of whatever the General Assembly decides.
Meanwhile, local governments, including the county, have their own problems and can’t absorb much of the state’s budgetary shortfall.
Although lower taxes — or even holding the line — is a popular discussion topic at budget time, the reality is that property owners are more likely to see an increase this year, locally and at the state level.
PUBLIC EYE
I really need a haircut
I’ve never been real good about getting haircuts and it isn’t because I prefer longer hair over a cleaner cut.
By Stewart Dobson
It’s simply a matter of never getting around to scheduling a regular trim because I get distracted by things that interest me more.
Such as artificial intelligence, which is better than no intelligence at all.
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: oceancitytoday.com Facebook: facebook/mdcoastdispatch.com
And as it happens, my thoughts on AI coincided with my realization that I really need a haircut, AND, since it’s a new year, getting a new look. So, with the aid of AI, I have tried on some new styles. By the way, this also proves you can no longer believe everything you see.
The Shave. Clean and it says, “Look, I’m an industrialist.”
The Physicist. Low maintenence, leaves plenty of time to split atoms and stuff.
Wanna
Strange and Scary Aunt.
The Austrian Composer. Good for filtering out the squeaky clarinets ruining your waltz.
The Cartel. Requires access to 1,700 HP Donzi and babes.
Between the Lines
By Steve Green
It was expected property values would surge in Berlin, Ocean Pines, Bishopville and surrounding areas, but the rate of increases was startling for many homeowners when they opened their notices last week. The massive jumps are typically viewed as bad news for those planning to continue living in their homes.
Of the 14,840 total residential properties, 98% recorded jumps in value (only 263 did not). Residents saw their property values rise an average of 30%. When commercial properties are included, 91% of properties recorded increases – 16,443 of the total 18,010 evaluated. Commercial properties increased on average 19%.
As far as values for the entire Group 1, residential and commercial properties increased 27% in value (the state average was 20%). It’s worth noting the group’s increase in property values for these areas is unprecedented in recent history. In fact, back in 2013, Group 1 saw residential and commercial property decline by 14%. In 2016, Group 1 jumped 9%; another 9% in 2019; and in 2022 the increase was 17%.
What does all this mean? It’s a sign of good times for property values to continue to climb, but it, more importantly for individual households, comes with a cost. Property owners will see the amount they owe in property taxes increase unless county and municipal governments lower their tax rates to the constant yield rate, which will not happen. Governments will most likely not be able to reduce the tax rate because they, too, are facing tremendous increases in costs for personnel, goods and services. An argument could be made the inflationary spikes being seen by government exceed the property tax revenue increases caused by booming land values.
For second-home owners, the increase in property taxes will be most significant because only primary property owners enjoy the annual assessment cap known as the Homestead Tax Credit. In Worcester, the annual assessment is capped at 3%, which serves as protection for owner-occupied properties. No matter, local governments will see major jumps in property tax revenue. Municipalities will soon be hearing what their new revenue totals will be for next fiscal year to determine their budgets, while the county is expecting about an $18 million increase in property tax revenue based on the new assessments.
***
Forgive me if I don’t freak out over the Maryland General Assembly’s $3 million budget deficit, which could have been avoided with better decision making. In fact, I see some good news in legislators having to reconcile another monster deficit, as it appears likely to lead to the delays in the Blueprint for Maryland schools. While the Blueprint contains some positives for education, it’s essentially an unfunded state mandate with a burdensome timetable, which is too short and the cost to implement the changes do not include a funding mechanism for local governments.
Gov. Wes Moore seems intent on pushing back the timelines. He said last month, “This year, I will propose a pause in the implementation of the collaborative time provisions in the Blueprint for Maryland’s Future,” Moore said. “Our goal is to give school districts time — time and space — to recruit and retain enough teachers to make this plan actually work. And while we pause collaborative time, I will also be proposing new short-term grants to schools and districts that want to experiment with collaborative time models to make sure that it works for your own, individual jurisdictions.”
This year’s session will be interesting to observe. What impact spending cuts have on local governments is the biggest concern here.
It’s nice to see the dollars raised through the Gavin Knupp Foundation after the 2022 tragedy will be put to sound use in the community.
It was announced this week $14,000 of the foundation’s assets were donated to the Berlin Skate Park effort being led by the We Heart Berlin group. Embezzlement charges and a court agreement led to the foundation being ordered to disband with assets – about $30,000 in all – distributed to county charities by end of 2024. Though unclear at this time where the other dollars went, it was great to see a large chunk of funding dedicated to skateboarding, a passion of Knupp’s before he was killed in a hit-and-run collision. A trial for the motorist involved in the collision is set for March.
Organizers say the intent is to memorialize and honor Knupp in some fashion at the new skate park.
Technical basis behind offshore wind opposition
Editor,
As an engineer with more than 40 years of experience in the development, construction, operation, and maintenance of power plants including wind farms, I need to express my concerns regarding Maryland offshore wind turbine development. There is clearly a lack of electric power generation understanding from our Maryland State representatives who appear to be hell bent on achieving their offshore wind goals with little understanding of the technologies.
Wind turbines are very expensive to construct and maintain on land. These machines will be orders of magnitude more costly to build and maintain in a saltwater environment, and the ratepayers will be burdened with absorbing these exorbitant costs. Furthermore, wind speeds in Maryland are not ideal for wind turbine development which is why one sees so few wind turbines in this State. Rather, the mid-section of the lower 48 is most favorable for wind farms as one can see from wind maps provided by the government at
windexchange.energy.gov. Moreover, wind energy is often not available when the electric grid most needs it (i.e. hot/humid summer days), yet it’s often available during periods of low electricity demand which wreaks havoc on electric grid operations due to excessive power being pumped into the grid with nowhere to send it. So what low emission energy alternatives are there to wind turbines? There’s a false narrative that most electricity in this nation is produced from dirty, high CO2 emitting coal fired power plants. Indeed, this was the case a decade ago, but these old coal plants are rapidly being replaced with clean natural gas fired combined cycle power plants that utilize advanced jet engine technology and approach 60% efficiency which all translates to low emissions. An 1,100 MW combined cycle power plant generates about 8000 metric tons of CO2 per day. In comparison, global commercial airline traffic generates about 2.5 million metric tons of CO2 per day. Hence, the tons of CO2 generated from a large combined cycle power plant is insignificant when compared to commercial airline traffic alone. Furthermore, one com-
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Former Md. Sen. Rich Colburn remembered
Legislator served mid-shore region for decades, leaving lasting impression on many
By Brian Shane Staff Writer
(Jan. 10, 2024) Richard Colburn, an industrious legislator representing the Eastern Shore for more than 30 years in Annapolis, has died. He was 74.
As a dogged state senator, “my husband was always a thorn in people’s side,” recalled his wife, Alma Colburn. “He was so tenacious. He bothered you and he bothered you. The joke was: get Colburn what he wants and get him out of here. I used to say, I needed roller skates to keep up with him.”
She said he died Dec. 27 from complications of a heart attack.
Colburn served Caroline, Dorchester, Talbot, and Wicomico counties from 1995 to 2015 as the state senator for District 37. Before that, he also served the mid-shore as a representative to the Maryland House of Delegates from 1983 to 1991.
A Republican, Colburn was employed by the Town of Federalsburg at its town manager from 1991 to 2015. Most recently, he worked as a liaison to Agriculture Secretary Joe
Bartenfelder from 2015 to 2022.
Born February 9, 1950, Richard Franklin Colburn grew up in the former colonial port town of Oxford, Maryland. His father was a waterman who also painted houses in the winter when he couldn’t tong for oysters, his wife said.
After graduating from Easton High School, Rich joined the Army and was stationed in Germany, working on the front lines of the Cold War in top-secret intelligence from 1969 to 1972. He was supposed to serve a four-year tour, but budget cuts brought him home after three.
Colburn first met his future wife in 1996 on a blind date; he was 45, she was 30. After three years of courtship, they married.
“He was very frugal,” Alma recalled. “But he said, ‘Pick out your ring.’ I picked out a three-carat diamond and said, 'This’ll do.’”
After a rough patch, the couple divorced amicably and were separated in 2015 – but then remarried again in 2019.
“We were just peanut butter and jelly. Everybody knew we were supposed to be together. We were just connected. We could finish each other’s sentences,” Alma Colburn said.
A Baltimore Orioles fanatic and
season ticketholder, his wife said Colburn was just as happy listening to the game on a portable radio while mowing the lawn or, as he often did, while patronizing the stadium skybox of team owner Peter Angelos.
He also had been a big Baltimore Colts fan – and was still sore about the team’s secretive move to Indianapolis in 1984. “Don’t even mention when they pulled that team out in the middle of the night,” Alma said. "He never forgot that.”
Rich loved hamburgers and fried chicken, and his drink of choice was a Michelob Ultra with a glass of ice. He grew to love the role of Pop-Pop to his granddaughter Saylor, 7, who his wife called “the light of our life.”
She said while his death was sudden, he had been ailing for some time, having had two back operations in five years. Doctors determined he’d been suffering from a fused vertebrae that left him in constant pain. “It got worse and worse, his back. They saw bone density doctors and neurologists, but nobody could help,” she said.
Colburn first ran for the House of Delegates in 1978 but lost by 313
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
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bined cycle plant can almost entirely meet Delmarva’s customers electric power consumption which averages about 1300MW.
There is a need to reduce CO2 emissions across our planet, but we are decades away from having the next generation of nuclear reactors that can safely generate zero carbon power. Very efficient combined cycle power plants burning clean natural gas is the bridge to get us to this future technology along with carbon
votes. He ran again in 1982 and won, taking office in 1983. When former mid-Shore Sen. Fred Malkus – the man for whom the bridge over Cambridge’s Choptank River is named –retired, Colburn successfully ran for his seat and made the position his own for two decades.
Alma said the Colburns couldn’t leave the house or go out to eat without people approaching them, and Rich always offering his business card, earnestly and genuinely. “I’m Rich, Rich Colburn,” was his standard greeting.
"He didn’t care if you owned five hotels, or you lived on Social Security. He took every constituent and was just – ‘get it done, get it done. Have you done it yet?’ He’s so tenacious but he was always so calm. He never grandstanded about anything. He was so humble,” Alma Colburn said. Colburn unfailingly showed up to work at the Senate offices every day with a stack of newspapers folded under his arm to brief himself on the issues, recalled Jim Mathias, a former senator representing the three Lower Shore counties adjacent to
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capture technologies which are advancing quickly.
That said, I am hopeful the Trump administration will install roadblocks that will prevent Maryland offshore wind development as these wind farms will do little to reduce CO2 emissions yet forever ruin our beautiful Ocean City landscape with an endless array of blinking red lights and burden our ratepayers with excessive energy costs.
David Cook, PE Ocean Pines
OBITUARIES
GEORGE
Berlin
THOMAS SCHELEUR
With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of George Thomas Scheleur on Dec. 30, 2024, at the age of 77.
Born on March 12, 1947, in Pasadena, George was a devoted husband, father, brother, and friend whose presence will be deeply missed.
George proudly served his country as a Navy veteran, stationed aboard the USS Forrestal during his early years. His commitment to service shaped the man he became and laid the foundation for a life of diligence and care. Following his service, he transitioned into a successful career in maintenance management, where his meticulous approach and problemsolving skills contributed greatly to his workplace.
In his prime, George found joy in the simple pleasures of life. He had a passion for reading that allowed him to explore worlds beyond his own, and his love for cooking brought warmth and comfort to his family.
Gathering around the dinner table, sharing stories, and nurturing relationships were itineraries of love that he orchestrated so adroitly.
George is survived by his devoted wife, Barbara Scheleur, whose companionship enriched his life in countless ways. He was a proud father to his beloved children, Alicia Basar, Aleta Scheleur, Damon Scheleur, Tina Norris, Dawn Gonzales and Dawn Wilson. Each of them carried forward his values and spirit, embedding his legacy within their own families. He is also survived by his eldest brother, John Scheleur, with whom he shared countless cherished moments.
As we remember George, let us hold close the memories of his laughter, warmth, and unyielding support. He embodied kindness and was a steadfast source of love for all those fortunate enough to know him. Although he has departed from this earthly realm, his spirit will forever shine brightly in the hearts of his family and friends.
In honor of George’s life, a memorial service was held Jan. 9, 2025 at 11:30 a.m. at Berlin First Baptist Church, 613 Williams St., Berlin, Md. 21811. All are welcome to join in cel-
ebrating the extraordinary man he was and the profound impact he had on our lives.
May he rest in eternal peace with our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.
GLORIA SHOEMAKER Ocean City
With deep sorrow, we announce the passing of our beloved mother, sister, and friend, Gloria Shoemaker who peacefully entered the arms of her Savior on Dec. 3, 2024, at the age of 67.
Born on June 26, 1957, in Baltimore, Gloria was the daughter of the late Rosalie Neumayer and Edward (Jack) Holland, she was one of 6 children. Survived by her beloved son, Cody and daughter-in-law, Corinne Shoemaker, her brother, Robert and his wife, Tricia Holland, her brother, Ed and his wife, Candy Holland, and her sister, Jackie and her husband, Jerry Vandervort and preceded in death by her two late sisters, Linda Holland and Vanessa Fabian.
She was the first one to move away
from her hometown and explore life outside of Baltimore, an accomplishment that she was very proud of. In 1978, she moved to the small town of Ocean City where she would later help her brother, Robert (Robbie) Holland, move down to one of their favorite places ever on 82nd Street and Coastal Highway.
Gloria was a devoted mother to her only child Cody, whom she cherished with all her heart. Her love for Cody was unshakeable, and she found her greatest joy in the bond they shared. This was her proudest moment when she became a mother in October 1990. It’s an understatement to say that Cody was the light of her life. From day one, they did everything together…from daily beach adventures, to being the “pizza delivery mom” at Worcester Preparatory, and always being there to take him and watch him at the skatepark on almost a daily basis. She poured everything she had into her son Cody and played a significantly positive role in teaching him the values he has today. Her nurturing spirit and unwavering dedication as a mother will remain a guiding light for Cody for the rest of his life.
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Area leaders share memories of late senator
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Colburn’s district.
Legislators who live far from Annapolis often rent an apartment there during the session. Mathias said he and Colburn often stayed at the same spot.
“I’d see him at nighttime. He’d have some ice cream and some cookies – that was Rich’s treat,” Mathias said. “He made us laugh and he also made us think. He was a good man, God rest his soul.”
Among Colburn’s greatest accomplishments as legislator was his work to replace the bridge spanning the Choptank River between Caroline and Talbot counties, according to U.S. Congressman Andy Harris (R1st), a former colleague of Colburn’s in the Maryland Senate.
Calling him a “mentor, dear colleague, and a trusted friend,” Harris included that legacy project on a long list of accolades he filed as a thoughtful appreciation into the Congressional Record on Dec. 31.
It took years and years, but Colburn eventually secured $60 million in state funds to replace the Dover Bridge, constructed in 1932. Its replacement opened in June 2018, Harris noted, to “great fanfare.”
Colburn also worked legislatively to widen U.S. Route 50, to increase benefits for police and military veterans, to fund oyster bed restoration in Chesapeake Bay, and to bring a much-heralded Hyatt hotel to Cam-
bridge, Harris noted.
“The Eastern Shore is forever grateful for Senator Colburn’s commitment to service and his dedication to Maryland,” Harris said.
Career political operative Len Foxwell, who for years helmed the office of former Comptroller Peter Franchot, remembered Colburn for his never-ending hustle.
“It was literally impossible to keep pace with him,” he said in a Facebook
post the day after Colburn’s passing. “NOBODY ever did constituent service better or with greater tenacity than Rich. During my tenure at the (Maryland) Comptroller's Office, I received more calls from Rich than from any other TRIO of senators I could think of."
Ocean City Mayor Rick Meehan recalled that Colburn loved Ocean City and always supported the resort during his time in office. He said Colburn
worked tirelessly to help his constituents while also keeping the big picture in mind for the state of Maryland.
“We were very sad to hear the passing of Sen. Colburn,” Meehan said. “I always looked at Rich as a friend of Ocean City. I know he was very well-liked and appreciated by his constituents and those he served with. He will be missed. Our thoughts and prayers go out to Alma and his family.”
George Scheleur
G. Shoemaker
OBITUARIES
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Gloria was also a loving sister to her brother, Robbie, who was her constant companion and source of strength. Their deep connection and loyalty to one another was evident to all who knew them. Robbie was always there to ensure she wasn’t alone, which she deeply cherished.
She was fond of spending her younger years enjoying the beach life in OC and working summer jobs like Love’s Lemonade stand, but in the 1980s while working at the Carousel Hotel she met her ex-husband, Bill Shoemaker. When they weren’t tending to the cats, pigs, horses and cows on their farm, the two started a successful meeting management business in which she was integral in acquiring one of their biggest lifetime customers. Along with this accolade, Gloria started her own business, Holland Corporation, which outfitted homes and businesses up and down the Delmarva Coast with top-of-theline decor and window treatments. Another great joy was having her niece Jen and nephew Johnny visit her home known as “Jessica Ranch” and spending time together, going to the beach and just hanging out with all the animals.
Gloria was an avid bike cyclist, and her great accomplishment was the Seagull Century 100 Mile Ride and riding with her son, Cody and
brother, Robbie when they got the chance.
A woman of profound faith, Gloria was a devout Christian who lived her life with love, grace, and an unwavering belief in God’s promises. She found peace and strength in her relationship with Jesus Christ and held onto the blessed hope that one day she would be welcomed into her heavenly mansion, reunited with loved ones in the presence of her Savior. Her faith shaped everything she did. She knows that her time on earth was only temporary, and she looked forward to the eternal life that awaited her with joy and certainty.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, Jan. 18, 2025, from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. at the Residence Inn, Ocean City.
JANICE HOPE WAINWRIGHT
Berlin
Janice Hope Wainwright, age 78, passed away peacefully surrounded by her loving family on Saturday, Jan. 4, 2025.
Born in Berlin, she was the daughter of the late Herman Sorin and Eunice Quillen Sorin.
Janice grew up in Berlin and at-
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J. Wainwright
OBITUARIES
tended Stephen Decatur High School. After graduating she pursued Cosmetology and joined her mother at Rosina’s Beauty Salon in Berlin and later took over the business. After retiring from Rosina’s, she helped with the transformation and expansion of the family’s hotel into a modern establishment. She enjoyed her life and all her wonderful family and friends. She is survived by her loving husband, Harold Wainwright; son, Jay Phillips (Christie); and grandchildren Brooke and Moorea Phillips. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her daughter, Kimberly Phillips.
A memorial service will be held on Friday, Jan. 10, 2025, at 1 p.m. at the Burbage Funeral Home in Berlin. Letters of condolence can be sent to the family via www.burbagefuneralhome.com. Arrangements are in care of the Burbage Funeral Home, Berlin.
LYNNE GROTON WEIDNER
Snow Hill
On Dec. 30, 2024, Lynne Groton Weidner of Snow Hill passed away peacefully after more than a decade battle with Alzheimer’s Disease. Lynne G Weidner was born August 15, 1944. She was 80 years old. She is survived by her daughter, Melisa Weidner; her stepsons, Jack
Weidner (Karina Ferrer) and grandsons Jackie and Nicholas Weidner and Skip Weidner (Jen) andgranddaughters Jillian and Janna; and her brother Tom Groton (Althea Groton).
Lynne is preceded in death by her parents, Clay and Marie Groton, and nephew, Tyler Groton.
Lynne was born in Baltimore City and spent her childhood living in Lutherville. When she was young, she was very involved with horse shows with her grandmother, Rebecca Tarbert Groton. She later moved to Sparks with her parents and brother, Tom. In the summers, she and her family enjoyed tubing down the Glencoe River across from her grandparent’s farm. Family was always very important to Lynne and was celebrated annually with the family’s Grotonanny Reunions. Springtime Lynne could be found at My Lady’s Manor in Monkton for the Point to Point horse races, foremost being the Maryland Hunt Cup. She was an active member at Immanuel Episcopal Church in Glencoe with her parents.
She graduated from Catonsville Community College. Upon graduation she entered University of MD College Park. After a semester, she
decided to join the workforce at Western Electric in Hunt Valley.
Lynne began working at Western Electric in Hunt Valley in the mid 1960’s.
She met her husband Ed Weidner there, and they married a couple years later. They purchased a farmhouse in Parkton where they spent their time renovating the home, creating beautiful gardens and entertaining. She helped raise Ed’s two sons from his first marriage, Skip and Jack. The boys were there every other weekend and she loved them as her own.
Lynne was also very active at Melisa’s elementary school, Fifth District. She was an active PTA member as well as a school volunteer helping students with assignments, assisting in the lunch room and most notably pioneered an afterschool roller skating program where she was the DJ. Lynne took Melisa to the Eastern Shore each summer to spend time in Snow Hill and Ocean City.
Lynne packed up Melisa and their things and moved to Burlington, N.C. to follow her husband’s career path with the phone company. Upon she and Ed building their dream home, it quickly became a show piece. Lynne was known for her exceptional taste, attention to detail and it soon became the model for the new development. She became involved in the Soropti-
mist Club and also pursued a career in real estate. Life in North Carolina was short-lived due to her divorce of Ed. Even after the divorce Lynne remained in contact with Ed’s nieces and nephews. In later years they would occasionally get together and they often visited her in Snow Hill. She always considered them family. Lynne and Melisa decided to move to Snow Hill where her brother Tom was raising his family and her parents had retired. Lynne quickly acclimated to life on the shore. She began working at her cousin’s law office Harry S. Groton. She spent numerous days working in the yard, enjoying the sun at Public Landing, going to auctions to find just the right piece of silver, and enjoying time out with friends. She also adored her nephews Clay and Tyler Groton and Alex Dryden. Lynne later worked for Betty Schiller’s Title Abstracting and eventually finished her career at the Worcester County Courthouse in Land Records. She became an All Hallows Church member when she moved to Snow Hill in 1986, although she had been attending services since the 70’s when her brother Tom had moved to town. She loved assisting with the annual Pancake Supper at the church and was most often a greeter so she could socialize with everyone. Lynne also enjoyed playing
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Lynne Weidner
intramural volleyball for a few years. Her favorite spot was the Nassawango Country Club or the Snow Hill Inn where everyone gathered to enjoy each other’s company. She adored her parents and loved taking turns hosting holidays with her parents and brother’s family.
Lynne and Melisa had an unbreakable bond and loved each other fiercely. From elementary school through college, she was always there cheering Melisa on making sure she knew she was loved. She would often visit Melisa up at Shepherd University, where everyone anxiously awaited her arrival and lovingly referred to her as Aunt Lynnie.
In later years, she loved being visited by her son Jack and his family. Especially her grandsons Jack and Nick that referred to her as Grams. She adored her Tyler Groton and was always excited for his grand entrance into her home. Lynne loved cards and anyone that played with her rarely won except her stepson Skip. It wasn’t until she was diagnosed with AD that someone other than herself was the victor.
Melisa, moved back to the shore from Washington, D.C. in 2014 to care for her mother after noticing some cognitive decline. Lynne retired from the courthouse and was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s Disease soon after. She and her daughter spent the next eight years enjoying each other’s company. They spent time enjoying the beach, boardwalk, church, road trips, shopping, dining out and wrapping up each day with some ice cream.
Lynne also had breast cancer in 2016 and a mild stroke in 2018 but successfully overcame both.
On March 17, 2022 Lynne was placed in Harrison House due to her decline. Melisa visited frequently, making sure her mother was well
taken care of and that she received her daily dose of ice cream. Lynne passed peacefully in her sleep early Monday morning Dec 30.
Lynne was known for her impeccable style, generous ways, incredible storytelling, devotion to family and friends, discerning taste, quick wit, love of jewelry, cocktails, cards and ice cream. Melisa chronicled their journey on social media when she returned home in 2014. There was quickly a large following from Melisa’s friends from elementary school through college, many neighbors, family and friends she hadn’t met. She was infectious, and funny with a sharp tongue, but was always loved by many. She will be missed.
In lieu of flowers please honor Lynne’s memory in purchasing something fabulous for yourself and think of her every time you wear it. We also ask that you consider volunteering some time at your favorite charity.
Services were held. Letters of condolence can be sent to the family via www.burbagefuneralhome.com. Arrangements are in care of The Burbage Funeral Home in Snow Hill.
RICHARD LEVIN CROPPER SR.
Ocean City
Richard Levin “Dick” Cropper, Sr., age 88, of Ocean City, passed away Saturday, December 28, 2024 at home. He was born in Philadelphia, Pa. and was the youngest son of the late Robert S. Cropper, Sr. and Edith (Emery) Cropper.
He was a retired accountant from Gulf Oil and a member of University #51 Masonic Lodge, Elk's Lodge 2645. Richard was an avid bowler and competed in tournaments all across the country. He also served in the US Army
Richard is survived by his wife of 65 years, Helen M. Cropper; three children, Richard L. Cropper, Jr. of Ocean Pines, Romona Williams and husband Justin of Fort Meyers, Fla. and Randall Cropper and wife Michele of Media, Pa.; seven grandchildren, Richard Cropper III (Jami), Anna Cropper, Corey Cropper, Randall Cropper, Jr., Miranda Cropper, Michael Cropper and Mara Cropper; and three great-grandchildren Sophia, Aubree and Levi Cropper. He was preceded in death by two brothers, Robert Cropper Jr. and Gillis Cropper.
No services are planned at this time. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Coastal Hospice P. O. Box 1733 Salisbury, Md. 21802.
Condolences may be sent by visiting www.bishophastingsfh.com.
ERNEST A. BRANDENBERG JR.
Ocean City
Ernest A. Brandenberg Jr., 90 years old, from Baltimore, passed away peacefully at his home in Ocean City on Dec. 22, 2024.
Ernest was in the finance department for the Baltimore County Police Department until his retirement. He was an avid reader, crossword puzzler, gardener, cigar smoker, and a lover of all thing’s sports. He enjoyed spending his time in Ocean City in the summer and Naples, Florida in the winter.
Ernest was preceded in death by his father, Ernest A. Brandenberg Sr.; his mother, Helen Brandenberg; and his son, Mark Richard Brandenberg. Ernest is survived by his wife Donna Brandenberg, son Ernest Brandenberg III and his wife Diana, son Ben Brandenberg and his wife Jaime, son
Eric Brandenberg and his wife Saphara, brother Larry Brandenberg and wife Carol, brother Don Brandenberg and his wife Josephine, and two grandchildren Mark and Calvin. A Celebration of Life to be held on Jan. 18 from noon-3 p.m. Arrangements with Eastern Shore Cremation & Funeral Service, 504 Franklin Ave., Berlin, Md. 21811. Please visit www.easternshorecremation.com.
JOAN NEVILLE DEFRESSINE
Berlin
Joan Neville Defressine, an adored mother, grandmother and aunt, passed away peacefully at the age of 90, on Monday, Dec. 23, 2024, in Berlin.
Joan was born in Berlin on April 3, 1934. She was the daughter of the late William Neville and Violet Neville Matthews. Joan in her early years lived on Williams Street. She graduated from Buckingham High School in 1952 and worked as a switchboard operator for the telephone company in the town of Berlin. Joan was married to the love of her life the late Robert DeFressine. Bob as everyone knew him was born in 1925 on the Riddle Farm. They made their home in Ocean City and together had three wonderful daughters. They made a beautiful life together. Joan and Bob established a painting business in Ocean City that lasted for over 50 years. They together worked for the Castle in The Sand until Bob’s death. Joan continued to working there until this past June. She was their oldest employee and considered them her work family. Joan’s passions were her family first. She loved the outdoors either fishing or being in her garden. Antiquing also brought her joy and there wasn't a yard sale she could resist. She is survived by her two daughters, Linda Hazard (Mike), and Deborah Defressine; a son-in-law, Stephen Brophy; two grandchildren, Spencer Hazard (Olivia), and Brittany Lord; and countless nieces, nephews, and cousins.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Robert Defressine, a daughter, Lisa Brophy, a brother, William Neville, and a sister, Molly.
Cremation followed her death. A graveside service will be held on Jan. 11 2025, at 11 a.m. at Sunset Memorial Park in Berlin. There will be a reception to follow at noon at the Ocean City Volunteer Fire Company’s Station 5 on Keyser Point Road.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Ocean City Volunteer Fire Department. Letters of condolence can be sent to the family via www.burbagefuneralhome.com. Arrangements are in the care of The Burbage Funeral Home.
R. Cropper Sr.
E. Brandenberg Jr.
Joan Defressine
Decatur girls team wins invitational tourney
By Bruce C. Walls
Contributing Writer
(Jan. 10, 2025) Over the last 23 years, the War on the Shore Invitational Wrestling tournament has grown to a new location with more than 1,000 wrestlers from across the region participating.
Ocean City’s Roland E. Powell Convention Center hosted the event last weekend.
Last year 26 teams from around the region competed while this year Stephen Decatur High School Head Coach Josh August reported there were “45 entries at the tournament and four separate tournaments going on at the
same time.”
The boys varsity Seahawks finished 13th overall this year, but the girls team took home top honors.
“Our varsity girls team won the girls tournament,” said August, who added the team battled to the top with a firstplace finish of 156.
Three Lady Seahawks won first place. Melani Ruiz took her weight class 110 over Genevieve Carpenter of Exeter Twp High School in the final dual. At 170, Chaniah Bernier won over Jordan Lawson of North Hartford in the final. Azariyah Johnson beat Nicole Filip from Hartford Technical in the 190.
In final matches, Rachel Plata 130 lost to Anastasia Dakoulas of Rockville and Irie Carmack 125 bowed to Molly Brangan of Archbishop Ryan High School. Both Plata and Carmack took home second-place recognition.
Also, placing in the top four were in the 115 Makaiya Robinetle over Emme Loos of Snow Hill for a third place win and in the 100-weight class Calleigh McBride placed fourth losing to Vanessa Polanco of Sussex Tech.
Seahawk sophomore Reed Carron won his match in the 132-pound weight class, saying, “it was great, I didn’t think I would win, I watched him wrestle earlier and didn’t think I would beat
him but I went out and won. It was a close match.”
The varsity boys team came in 13th with 110 team points. Seahawk Nate McDaniel placed second during the 215-weight class final, losing to Patrick Donahue of Cape Henlopen.
Placing third were Juan Hinojosa 113 over Kevin McFadden of Pennridge High and 126 Elijah Collick over Andrig Szczesniuk of Coatesville Area High.
In a close seventh place match, Jake Sauilo came in eighth losing to Noah Shird from Saint Frances Academy.
August said, “It was a very successful tournament and our Decatur teams did well.”
PHOTOS COURTESY SUSAN TAYLOR-WALLS
Senior Juan Hinojosa, above left, placed third overall and scored 22.5 points for the Decatur team in the 113-pound weight class. Above right, in the 126-pound weight class, Elijah Collick placed third with 22 points scored for his team.
