Hardware, building supply business dating to 1908 destroyed in earlymorning blaze. — PAGE 22
Bird flu found in snow geese
Dead birds test positive as virus works its way down the shore with migrating waterfowl. — PAGE 4
Trucks going big at Assateague?
It could be, as Park Service has proposed doing away with 1976 rule and opening the beach to bigger pickup trucks.— PAGE 12
PHOTO COURTESY BERLIN FIRE COMPANY
HARDWARE STORE INFERNO
The Worcester County Fire Marshal’s Office is investigating the cause of fire that broke out overnight Wednesday, destroying The Adkins Company hardware store on Harrison Avenue in Berlin. Nobody was hurt.
US Wind secures additional ORECs for offshore projects
By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor
(Jan. 31, 2025) The Maryland Public Service Commission has approved US Wind’s application for additional offshore renewable energy credits, which will support the company’s buildout of wind projects off Maryland's coast.
Last year, Gov. Wes Moore signed into law House Bill 1296, which, among other things, allows qualified offshore wind developers to apply for outstanding offshore renewable energy credits, or ORECs. And last week, the Maryland Public Service Commission awarded additional credits to the state’s only applicant, US Wind.
The agency reports it evaluated a number of criteria to determine whether the company’s proposal was in the public interest, as well as an analysis of the bill’s impacts on Maryland’s utility ratepayers.
“Our decision will support the expansion of renewable energy generation in Maryland, and advance the development of a project which will produce significant economic, environmental, and health benefits to our state, including assuring our future energy needs,” Frederick H. Hoover, chair of the Public Service Commis-
sion, said in a statement. “While questions have arisen regarding offshore wind development in a number of places, the Commission’s analysis through the independent consultant and our hearings demonstrated the importance of this project in providing emission-free energy, jobs, economic opportunity and cost benefits to Maryland ratepayers.”
Last year, Danish company Ørsted announced it would relinquish the ORECs it had been awarded for its Skipjack Wind project, which was set to bring a 966-megawatt project off the Delmarva coastline.
To that end, Gov. Wes Moore last May signed legislation – cross-filed as House Bill 1296 and Senate Bill 1161 – to require the Maryland Public Service Commission to open an offshore wind proceeding limited to evaluating revised project schedules, sizes, or pricing for a previously approved Round 2 offshore wind project and to review similar requests for Round 1 offshore wind projects.
In short, the legislation allows qualified offshore wind farm developers to apply for outstanding ORECs and streamlines the approval process for revised offshore wind projects.
See OPERATION Page 6
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Bird flu uptick puts chicken farmers even more on edge
By Brian Shane Staff Writer
(Jan. 31, 2025) Migrating snow geese in Worcester County tested positive for bird flu this month, state authorities said, as an outbreak of the disease continues to affect the region, including at several commercial chicken farms.
“In early January, laboratory testing provided preliminary confirmation of Highly Pathogenic H5 Avian Influenza (HPAI) in seven dead snow geese found in Worcester and Dorchester counties,” said Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) spokesman Gregg Bortz in a statement.
Another die-off of birds occurred this week near the South Gate Pond of the Ocean Pines community, according
to Ocean Pines Association spokesman Josh Davis.
He said personnel with the U.S. Department of Agriculture on Tuesday and Wednesday collected the carcasses of several deceased wildfowl, including eight domestic geese, four Canada geese, two vultures, two common mergansers, a sea gull, a grackle, and a cormorant. All are scheduled to be tested for avian influenza.
Regional spread of the H5N1 avian influenza virus started in late December with a die-off of snow geese in Delaware, according to Dr. Jennifer Trout, Maryland’s state veterinarian with the Department of Agriculture.
The confirmed bird flu cases were located in Bishopville, while the ones in Dorchester County were located in the
Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge, Trout said.
She said usual waterfowl migration south from Canada was delayed this year by about six weeks because the weather was warmer than usual. Once migratory waterfowl start moving through Maryland, that’s when an
uptick in bird flu cases can be expected. Carried by free-flying waterfowl such as ducks, geese, and shorebirds, bird flu is caused by an influenza type A virus. It can infect chickens, turkeys, pheasants, quails, domestic ducks, geese, and guinea fowl, according to the state agriculture department.
“We’re now at our uptick,” Trout said. “It’s that time of year with that migratory waterfowl movement, and them bringing the disease in with them. It’s almost like it’s a matter of time unfortunately.”
Trout added that the low-pathogenic bird flu virus occurs naturally in wildfowl, but it can mutate into a deadly and highly pathogenic form, with an incubation period of 10-14 days. Infected birds sometimes may appear wobbling or stumbling.
While this strain of the virus is typically seen in wild birds, it can and has spread to commercial chicken houses in recent weeks.
Approximately 627,500 broiler
A flock of Canada geese take a break on the South Gate Pond
Wild birds like these are known to be carriers of avian influenza.
ORECs used as financial, compliance tool
By Stewart Dobson Editor
(Jan. 31, 2025) Offshore wind developer US Wind has more offshore renewable energy credits (ORECs) to sell now that the Maryland Public Service Commission has approved the company’s application for credits made available by another company’s abandonment of a similar project.
When the Danish company Ørsted canceled its plans last year to build its Skipjack windfarm off the MarylandDelaware coast, that freed the ORECs it had been awarded by the state. Last week the Maryland Public Service Commission turned them over to the state’s only remaining candidate, US Wind.
So, what are ORECs? They are, in a way, financial instruments and certificates of compliance. Utility companies buy them from offshore wind energy producers, which use that money to finance their operations. The utility companies then use the ORECS as certificates of compliance with a state’s clean energy mandates.
In Maryland, according to the Department of Legislative Services, “a specified portion of retail electricity sold by electricity suppliers (must) come from “renewable” sources. Wind is one of those sources, while solar power, geothermal and a host of
lesser-known clean energy technologies are included in what is known as the state’s Renewal Energy Portfolio. This portfolio’s purpose is to encourage the growth of renewable energy according to a specified timetable and reduce carbon emissions.
Electricity suppliers don’t have a choice: they either buy these renewable energy credits or make an “Alternative Compliance Payment” to a fund managed by the Maryland Energy Administration. In addition to
O(ffshore) RECs, solar farms offer S(olar)RECs.
Here’s how ORECs work, according to localcontent.com, a company that helps businesses comply with government rules:
• Generating Renewable Energy: Offshore wind farms produce electricity that goes into the power grid. Each megawatt-hour of energy produced earns the company one OREC.
• Proving Clean Energy Use: Utilities use ORECs to show they are meeting their state’s renewable energy requirements.
Consequently, US Wind’s acquisition of the rights to these additional ORECs will give it more money to bring its Maryland projects to fruition, if other factors — review by the federal government and litigation — don’t derail it.
• Selling ORECs: Offshore wind developers sell the ORECs to utilities or other companies. The income from these sales helps fund the construction and operation of the wind farms.
Operation expected to begin in 2029
Continued from Page 3
“Revisions outlined in House Bill 1296 seeks to streamline the approval process for revised project schedules and pricing, ensure the project is located in the authorized wind energy area, and those possessing offshore wind renewable energy credits can move forward expeditiously,” House Economic Matters Committee Chair CT Wilson, bill sponsor, said in a hearing last spring.
“Moreover, the bill does not restart the process for the projects. Merely, it allows limited alterations to already approved plans, including the adjustment to turbine placement, generating capacity, in-
stallation dates and pricing within the existing statutory limits.”
In the first two offshore wind rounds, held in 2017 and 2021, US Wind was awarded ORECs to support projects of more than 1,056 megawatts.
In what is known as a Revised Round 2, US Wind will construct a 1,710-megawatt project developed in four phases that will consist of 114, 15-megawatt turbines.
The first phase has an expected commercial operation date of 2029 while the second, third and fourth phases have an anticipated operation date of December 2030, with the first year of the respec-
tive OREC schedules beginning in January 2031, the commission reports.
This new combined project absorbs the capacity left over when Skipjack relinquished its ORECs last year.
“The Commission finds that the project meets the ratepayer impact tests required for Round 1 and Round 2 by not exceeding the statutory thresholds of $1.50 per month and $0.88 per month for an average residential customer for Rounds 1 and 2 respectively; and 1.5 percent per year and 0.9 percent per year for an average non-residential customer for Rounds 1 and 2 respectively,” a news release reads.
Infections, die-offs reported on Eastern Shore
chickens in Caroline, Dorchester, and Queen Anne’s counties had to be destroyed after flock samples tested positive for bird flu between Jan. 14-25, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, which closely tracks this data. Out-of-state cases involving commercial poultry were logged in Accomack County, Virginia, and Kent County, Delaware.
Poultry farms in Maryland are tested before any birds are harvested, whether there’s an outbreak or not, Trout added.
“What’s good is, we have a really robust surveillance program,” she said. “So, we can find these outbreaks, so they don’t enter the food chain. What we’re doing is successful. We have this system of checks and balances in place to protect the food supply.”
From a pool of 11 randomly selected birds, oral swabs are conducted. If a chicken farm has a positive bird flu test, then the property is placed into what Trout called an infected zone, with a radius of 3 km. Beyond that, there’s another 10-km layer called the control zone, then a final layer called the surveillance zone of 20 km, Trout said.
In the surveillance zone, birds are quarantined and tested daily for two weeks. Farmers need two negative tests before moving any birds to harvest, followed by a biosecurity audit before they’re allowed to restock. If a chicken farm tests positive, every bird is euthanized and the facility is deep-cleaned.
After two weeks of negative tests, the control area is released. It can take 40-50 days for a farmer’s operations to return to normal after a positive bird flu test, Trout said.
There have been a total of eight detections of avian influenza on commercial poultry farms on the Delmarva Peninsula this month, according to James Fisher, a spokesman for industry group Delmarva Chicken Association. Overall, five chicken companies on the peninsula produce about 600 million chickens a year.
“This is a tough time for chicken growers to be going through this,” Fisher said. “It’s something they have a lot experience practicing and preparing for. The word ‘biosecurity’ is not new for any chicken grower. It’s something they’ve been living with for many years. This part of the country has stayed pretty far ahead of the curve as far as preventing avian influenza.”
Fisher said to protect their flocks from bird flu, growers can keep a dedicated pair of footwear for each chicken house they operate, limit visitors, and install wild bird deterrents. The disease does not readily pass to humans.
birds that are three, four, five days from movement – and you have to put them down,” after testing positive, he said. “That is seven weeks of hard work. Nobody wishes that on anybody. The amount of meat that’s just wasted.”
He said migratory wildfowl spread the disease through excrement, which can be spread when people walk through it unknowingly. He said the best security against a bird flu outbreak is keeping powdered bleach in a box, known as a foot bath, by the chicken house door.
“If you can control who’s coming, you have a good chance of controlling it. But if not – all it takes is one guy walking into the Walmart and not wiping his shoes? It is as simple as that,” he said.
Shockley said he expects bird flu outbreaks to die down in mid-March as the weather heats up, sending migratory birds back north.
Snow Hill chicken farmer Virgil Shockley said most farmers will produce four to five flocks a year, with a turnaround time between harvest of about three weeks.
“Every precaution that is thought of is being taken,” against the spread of bird flu on poultry farms, he said.
“Something super disheartening is going into a chicken house, and you get
“When it hits 60 degrees, geese don’t want to be down here. If there’s a saving grace, as spring slowly gets to us, it will lessen,” he said.
Anyone who sees sick or dead birds in the wild should not handle or move the birds, but should report them to the USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service by calling 877-4636497.
Rule change could allow for larger vehicles on OSV zone
By Brian Shane Staff Writer
(Jan. 31, 2025) Bigger, heavy-duty trucks will be allowed to drive on the beach for the first time at Assateague Island National Seashore, if a proposed rule change is approved by the National Park Service.
Right now, vehicles driving on the park’s Over-Sand Vehicle Zone (OSV) can’t exceed 10,000 pounds, must have at least seven inches of ground clearance, and can’t be longer than 26 feet long or wider than 8 feet. The proposed regulatory amendment would remove all these requirements.
The rule proposal was published in the Jan. 17 edition of the Federal Register, a daily notice printed by the federal government. These vehicular requirements, established in 1976 by National Park Service, “are no longer necessary,” according to the memo.
Trucks heavier than 10,000 pounds that would be allowed to traverse the OSV zone include the Ford F-250 and Ford F-450, the GMC Sierra 2500HD, the Chevy Silverado 2500HD Work Truck, and the Ram 2500 Tradesman, the memo notes.
The memo also notes that about 10% of OSV permit applications have been denied in recent years because vehicles did not meet the weight requirements, and that no vehicles have been denied permits based on ground clearances or dimensions.
There is no limit to the amount of OSV permits the park may issue, though on average, the Park Service issues about 1,000 OSV permits annually, according to the memo.
Widening the scope of vehicles allowed on the OSV could increase park revenue. The Park Service charges $110 for a regular permit, and $200 for a “bullpen” permit that allows overnight RV camping.
No adverse effects are expected by lifting the weight limit. The Park Service already uses vehicles weighing more than 10,000 pounds for administrative actions, like repairing fences or moving beached whales. High tide cycles make
the beach sand self-repairing, the memo also says.
Ground clearances were established as necessary to an OSV permit, the memo says, to help prevent vehicles from getting stuck in the sand. But that requirement is now “difficult to measure and challenging to enforce,” the memo says, and there’s no documented evidence that seven inches of clearance is a meaningful figure. More cars get stuck because they drive into dunes or wet sand, the memo notes.
Vehicle length and width have been managed over the years by the access gate at the front entrance, and by the regulation that vehicles are limited to two axles, the memo notes, making moot the original dimensional regulations from nearly 50 years ago.
The public may comment on the proposed rule online by visiting Regulations.gov, or by mail in a note to Park Superintendent Hugh Hawthorne. The deadline for comment is midnight on March 18.
Hawthorne was unable to be reached for comment by press time.
Driving on the beach at Assateague has been a tradition that pre-dates the park’s establishment by Congress in 1965, the memo says. President Richard Nixon in a 1972 Executive Order authorized the formal use of off-road vehicles on public lands, and the OSV area has since become a wildly popular part of the park.
Only 145 OSV-permitted vehicles are allowed at any one time on the beach. When the zone fills up, access is granted on a one-on, one-off basis.
No other seashore in the National Park System prescribes a weight limit for vehicles, which likely was created to ensure the safety of the two bridges that, in the 1970s, provided access to and from private land within the boundary of the seashore, according to the memo.
Today, those private lands have reverted to National Park Service ownership, and no privately-owned land exists on the property. One of the bridges is closed to cars and the other no longer exists, according to the memo.
PHOTO COURTESY NATIONAL PARK SERVICE
Park officials are seeking the community’s input on a proposed rule change that will allow larger, heavier trucks to traverse the Over-Sand Vehicle Zone at Assateague Island National Seashore.
Maryland considers income tax for occasional residents
Lawmakers propose tax bill to generate more revenue, address a budgetary deficit
By Brian Shane Staff Writer
(Jan. 31, 205) People who reside in Maryland for at least three months out of the year would be required to start paying an apportioned share of income tax, if a pair of bills now pending in the Maryland General Assembly became law.
State law currently says people who live in Maryland for more than six months are residents for tax purposes. This draft legislation cuts that time in half. It targets those who effectively split their time between Maryland and another state but, as legal residents elsewhere, avoid paying Maryland income taxes.
“This bill is basically about people who have two or more houses in different states,” said Sen. Jim Rosapepe (D-21, Prince George’s), the primary sponsor of SB 59. He was speaking to the Senate Budget and Taxation Committee during a Jan. 22 hearing.
“If you’re getting the advantage of government in Maryland, of services in Maryland, of roads, of transit, of emergency services – yeah. When you’re here, yeah, you oughta pay like everybody else who’s spending time here,” he added.
Such legislation likely would impact thousands of people with second homes on the Shore, especially in Ocean Pines and Ocean City, who spend weeks or even months domiciled in Worcester County.
In the face of an estimated $3 billion budget shortfall, the measure aims to be a revenue generator to help close the gap, according to Del. Lorig Charkoudian. She is the sponsor of a companion bill, HB 183, now under consideration in the House of Delegates.
“It’s important that we’re looking at, what are all the potential revenues?” said Charkoudian (R-20, Montgomery) in an interview. “How do we make sure people are paying their fair share, and no more than their fair share?”
Under the House version of the bill, nonresidents who “maintain a place of abode” in Maryland for at least 91 days, but less than 183 days, would be subject to Maryland income tax. That includes taxable interest income, capital gains, dividend income, taxable alimony, and royalties, according to text of the bill.
Charkoudian said there is some precedent for this: Maryland tax law does stipulate that professional athletes and entertainers are subject to special nonresident taxation for time
spent working or performing in Maryland.
Each sponsor legislator said the measure is not meant to double-tax anyone, but would create a formula to apportion one’s time spent in Maryland toward a fair tax bill.
Both sponsors also admitted their bills aren’t perfect and need some ironing out, with some help from the Comptroller’s office, as they make their way through committees.
One issue is that it’s unknown how many people would suddenly be deemed taxable part-time Marylanders, and how the change would alter their tax burden. The Comptroller’s office also points out, in policy documents, that the bill may face legal challenges over the definition of “resident” and could have implications for Maryland’s reciprocal income tax agreements with neighboring states.
People who currently pay state income tax but not a county income tax pay a special nonresident tax of 2.25%, money which goes right to the state.
It means the measure presumably would divert the state’s general fund revenues into county coffers, according to a fiscal and policy note on HB 183.
Kali Schumitz with the Maryland Center on Economic Policy testified at last week’s Senate hearing. She said it’s not uncommon for some to benefit from Maryland’s services without paying into the system. One example she gave was when people live in border states but surreptitiously send their kids to Maryland public schools.
“I think it’s worth exploring,” Schumitz said. “Having this set up makes it harder to game the system and for people to get the benefits of Maryland services that are funded through our taxes without paying into that system.”
Not all lawmakers were sold. Sen. J.B. Jennings (D-7, Baltimore County), a member of the Budget and Taxation committee, said the measure might risk chasing high income earners from the state.
His colleague, committee member Sen. Karen Lewis Young (D-3, Frederick) said to think about Maryland’s “snowbirds” who migrate to second homes in Florida in the winter months. “Those are people who might seriously consider changing their primary residency to Florida because of a more positive tax environment,” she said.
As of Wednesday, both bills remain under consideration at the committee level. Charkoudian’s bill was scheduled for a hearing before the House Ways and Means committee on Thursday. If passed, it would take effect July 1.
Moratorium for new short-term OC rentals
By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor
(Jan. 31, 2025) After an hour-plus discussion during which three motions failed, the Ocean City Council this week settled on a five-day minimum length of stay for existing shortterm rentals in the R-1 and MH mobile home districts.
In addition to setting a moratorium on the issuance of any new short-term rental licenses in the R-1 residential and mobile home districts, the council this week agreed to set a minimum length-of-stay restrictions for existing rentals, beginning this season.
To give the city time to evaluate short-term rental regulations and data, the council also agreed to set a moratorium through Dec. 31, until which time no new short-term rental licenses will be issued in the R-1 and MH districts. However, officials did make some concessions by allowing any short-term rental license applications submitted through Jan. 27 to be considered. They also directed staff to create an appeals process for shortterm rental licenses should a property be transferred to another family member.
“If we don’t have the moratorium, it’s more and more licenses, and it keeps spiraling almost,” Councilman John Gehrig said this week. “We at least need to push the pause button.”
In December, the Ocean City Planning Commission voted to move for-
ward with proposed short-term rental regulations that establish a 31day minimum length of stay in the R1 residential district. The commission’s rationale behind the more restrictive measure was that it needed to protect the city’s singlefamily neighborhoods.
However, when the recommendation was brought before the Mayor and City Council on Jan. 14, officials rejected the proposal, arguing that it went beyond the council’s guidance and effectively set a ban on shortterm rentals in the R-1 district. Instead, the council directed staff to draft an ordinance that limits shortterm rentals in the R-1 and MH districts to one booking within a consecutive seven-day period.
Property owner Steve Taylor added that the proposed short-term rental regulations impacted rental income for the 230 or so rental owners in residential neighborhoods. He said his property is intended to be his retirement home, and that such regulations would impact his long-term plan.
“You’re picking winners and losers …,” he said. “You are making us a loser.”
Property investor Isaac Spearman agreed, adding that the city had no data-driven explanation for implementing such regulations on rental owners in the residential districts.
“This is not just unfair to property owners, but also to the very visitors who contribute to our local economy here,” he said.
However, Gehrig argued the council’s reasoning for bringing forward short-term rental regulations was to protect the character of Ocean City’s residential areas.
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Back on Tuesday’s work session agenda, the ordinance was largely opposed by several property owners who came before the council during public comments to voice their concerns. Owner Linda Tucker argued the booking limitation should not apply to the MH district. She also said it did nothing to address problem properties.
“What difference would it make if there’s people in there for four days and then more people in there for three days,” she said. “It’s the same amount of distractions, same disturbances.”
“We are talking about balance so that everyone can live their dreams … ,” he said. “What we don’t want is a bunch of turnover in neighborhoods. That’s where the one rental every seven days comes from.”
Gehrig said the proposed ordinance set a rental limit but gave owners some flexibility in how they rent their properties.
Homeowners
voice opposition
“I don’t want to get in the way of what the owner wants to do, but you get one rental a week,” he said. “If you want to rent for one night, rent one night. If you want to rent for seven nights, rent for seven nights. That’s ideal.”
However, he questioned if the rental week should be better defined in the ordinance.
“I think we need some rules,” he said.
For her part, Councilwoman Carol Proctor said she opposed any minimum length of stay requirement, as it restricted property owners already facing a challenging economic climate. She noted that the city has parking regulations for short-term rentals, and that the council was in the process of implementing new occupancy limits. She argued that officials should see if those restrictions work before implementing a minimum length of stay.
“We’ve implemented rules, and we don’t know if those rules will work,” she said. “We haven’t given it time.”
Proctor added that she hadn’t received any complaints regarding short-term rentals.
“If I’m not hearing from the people who live here, what is the council doing?” she asked.
Councilman Will Savage said he supported some sort of restriction. However, he said his issue was with enforcement. He said he preferred a five- or seven-day minimum length of stay, as the city could work with rental platforms to block any online reservations that didn’t meet that threshold.
While acknowledging the community’s desire to address short-term rentals, Councilman Jake Mitrecic said he wanted to propose a moratorium on any new rental licenses in R1 neighborhoods.
“I’m not saying we need to crush the people already doing it but stop it from growing to see what these rules do,” he said.
After further discussion, Mitrecic made a motion to draft an emergency
See EXISTING Page 16
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Existing R-1 bookings can stay
Continued from Page 15
ordinance proposing a moratorium on new short-term rental licenses in the R-1 district through Dec. 31 and to exclude any rental license applications received or processed before Jan. 27. The motion failed for lack of a second.
Councilman Larry Yates then made a similar motion. However, the moratorium included new short-term rental licenses in both the R-1 and MH districts. It failed in a 3-3 vote, with Proctor, Savage and Council President Matt James opposed. Council Secretary Tony DeLuca was absent from Tuesday’s meeting.
“I look at this as a ban,” Savage said.
Revisiting their discussion on the proposed ordinance, officials began to discuss ways the city could enforce a booking restriction to once per week. Ultimately, the council opted to return to a length-of-stay minimum.
“That’s the only way I think the online platform is going to track it,” James said.
Proctor made a motion to establish a three-night minimum length of stay for short-term rentals in the R-1 and MH district, effective for the 2026 rental season. The rental licensing year runs from May 1 through April 30.
However, some took issue with the motion.
“If it’s not going to take effect until 2026, there’s zero rush to make motion at all …,” Gehrig said. “We solved zero problems today. All we did was waste time and paper. To me, I hate saying this … this conversation is dumb where it ended up. I’m more in line with the planning commission than this, and I’m against the planning commission’s recommendation.”
Learning the city had yet to issue any rental licenses for 2025, Proctor amended her motion to make the restriction effective in the 2025 rental season. However, her motion failed for lack of a second.
Savage then made a motion to implement a five-day minimum length of stay, but to grandfather any bookings made prior to Tuesday’s meeting. The motion passed in a 4-2 vote, with Gehrig and Proctor opposed.
However, the discussion didn’t end there, as the council then revisited the moratorium proposal. In a 51 vote, with Proctor opposed, the council voted to draft a moratorium on any new rental licenses not already being processed in the R-1 and MH districts, with an expiration of Dec. 31. This time, the council directed staff to work on language for an appeals process for rental licenses should the property transfer to another family member during that time.
BRIAN SHANE PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH
Crews worked this week to replace the flooring at the iconic Boardwalk arcade, Marty’s Playland, after relocating all their games and Skee-Ball machines temporarily.
Council backs increased fire marshal fees
By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor
(Jan. 31, 2025) City officials this week agreed to increase several fees within the Ocean City Fire Marshal’s Office.
On Tuesday, the Ocean City Council voted to move forward with a resolution adopting a new fee schedule for the fire marshal’s office. The increases will be the first approved in Ocean City since 2002.
“Our intent is if you approve this through the appropriate readings, I’d like to hold off until April 1 to give notice to the building industry and the fire industry,” Fire Marshal Josh Bunting
said.
In a memorandum to city staff, Bunting noted that the Ocean City Fire Marshal’s Office had not evaluated or increased fees since 2002. To that end, over the course of several months throughout 2023, the office gathered and evaluated information in an effort to conduct a comprehensive review of the department’s fee structure.
The fire marshal’s office reports each fee was reviewed to determine cost recovery, as well as how the fee compared to others in the region.
“We compared the cost recovery necessary for each one of the individual things that we have fees for, things like
permits inspections and things like that,” he explained. “We also compared them regionally. We utilize their regional comparatives that were used by HR during the last pay study to kind of evaluate us against our regional partners.”
The fees being recommended for an increase were insufficient in recovering the cost for review, inspections or compliance testing and were lower than regional agencies, the office reports.
“In most areas, the revised fees recommended for consideration meet the recovery cost, and remain well below regional comparatives,” the memo reads.
In his presentation Tuesday, Bunting told the council the fees being increased were no higher than they needed to be. He added that some did not change.
After a brief discussion on tent and special event fees, the council voted 60, with Council Secretary Tony DeLuca absent, to implement the new fee structure and advance the changes to a resolution, with reasonable public notice prior to the effective date, April 1.
The implementation coincides with the planning and community development fee restructuring, which was also advanced at this week’s council meeting.
OC eyes 10% jump in planning fee schedule
By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor
(Jan. 31, 2025) Fees within the city’s planning and community development department will increase, as the council this week agreed to move forward with a new fee schedule.
On Tuesday, Planning and Community Development Director George Bendler presented the Mayor and City Council with a revised fee schedule for his department. The schedule, which
will advance to a resolution, includes several fee increases that will cover staff and attorney costs.
“We want to make sure any project, your neighbor isn’t paying for it through their taxes,” he told the council this week. “We want to make sure that project is paid for by the person applying for that project. And right now, we’re not getting that cost recovery for our staff time and legal fees.”
According to a memo sent to the
council, the planning and community development department has not evaluated or increased fees since 2010. Recently, staff completed a review of the department’s fee structure to ensure the fees covered the department’s costs and aligned with market standards.
The resulting fee adjustments were presented to the Mayor and City Council on Tuesday.
“I’m looking at a 10% increase in our fees,” Bendler said.
Bendler noted that basic permit fees would increase for the first time in 15 years. The department is also proposing a new review fee.
“When you come into our office, you don’t pay for the permit until the end,” he explained. “And sometimes people leave the permit in our office and don’t ever complete the permit application. We want to charge them up front, a minimal $50 for a residential fee for re-
See COUNCIL Page 20
BLOOD DONORS
BRIAN SHANE/ OC TODAY-DISPATCH
Council signs off on fee increases
Continued from Page 18
view and then we want to charge for a commercial multifamily $150 for review so we can capture at least some sort of cost in our review process.”
The department is also proposing a change in demolition permit fees, an increase in board of zoning appeals (BZA) fees, an increase in public hearing fees, and additional fees for any applicant who brings more than three variance requests to the BZA, among other things.
Councilman John Gehrig, however, shared concerns over the proposed increases. He questioned if the added
costs would push developers to other towns.
“How likely is it that these fees become stackable, so that a project becomes ‘I’m just going to go somewhere else,’” he asked.
For his part, Bendler argued that the increases being proposed were reasonable, given the staff time required for each project.
“These fees are definitely in line, and what Goerge is talking about is true,” she said. “These things do take a lot of time, and they are very complicated. I don’t think it’s going to hinder anybody from developing property here, if that’s
a question in your mind.”
Bendler added that his department wants to ensure that the costs are covered.
“My department, we are running at a very serious deficit, and I want to bring those fees up so you guys aren’t looking at us and going ‘George, what the heck? Why are your costs so high?’” he said.
After further discussion, the council voted 6-0, with Council Secretary Tony DeLuca absent, to advance the new fee structure to a resolution at next Monday’s meeting. If approved, the new fee structure would take effect April 1.
Berlin police eyes drone buy through forfeited funding
By Tara Fischer Staff Writer
(Jan. 30, 2025) The Town of Berlin’s Police Department will purchase a drone at a cost not exceeding $12,000, per a Berlin Mayor and Council meeting earlier this week.
At the municipality’s Monday, Jan. 27 meeting of the Berlin Town Council, the governing body voted 3-0, with Councilmember Steve Green and Vice President Dean Burrell absent, to authorize a police department drone purchase for under $12,000.
The device, officially known as a DJI Matrice 30T Urban Scout Drone Package from DSLRPros, will be paid for with forfeited funds.
According to Berlin Police Chief Arnold Downing, forfeited funds are “funds received from criminal court cases that have all been forfeited through the court themselves, most of them in drug cases.”
Berlin Mayor Zack Tyndall emphasized that forfeited funds are not sourced from general taxpayer dollars and that this monetary stash is to pay for the full cost of the drone.
Downing said that the police department currently borrows assis-
See CHIEF Page 21
The Blood Bank of Delmarva hosted its 26th Annual ‘Life Patrol’ Ocean City Blood Drive this week at the Roland E. Powell Convention Center. Donors are pictured Monday, the first of the three-day event.
Chief outlines for council why drone will help officers
tance from other agencies, like the fire marshal’s office, for services that this new drone can now provide.
The device will allow officers to map out any type of traffic accident and crime scene, assist with search and rescue efforts, community outreach, and surveillance for protests and other large gatherings, among a multitude of law enforcement activities.
The police chief indicated that at least three officers will be trained to operate the drone. He added that the department is still unsure what kind of training it will offer and that much of it is likely to be online.
“We are not quite sure what exact training we are going to do,” Downing said. “We are at the point of looking at what the other agencies are doing. We have already decided what we need the actual drone for. We have selected the right one. We have also actually sent out a memo soliciting interest from the officers.”
Downing also noted that the device will have thermal capabilities, which will allow drone users to see in lowlight conditions, and through fog and smoke.
The Count Down...
Adkins Co. blaze shutters store, cause unknown
By Brian Shane Staff Writer
(Jan. 31, 2025) A devastating fire gutted one of Berlin’s oldest businesses early Wednesday, The Adkins Company hardware store and lumber yard on Harrison Avenue. The cause of the fire is unknown and remains under investigation. Nobody was hurt.
Fourth-generation owner Rick Holland lives around the corner from his business. He said the fire alarm woke him at 2:30 a.m. He arrived in a panic just eight minutes later to find the hardware store fully engulfed in flames.
“Once I was in the car and made the turn, I could see the orange glow
and see the smoke. For once, it wasn’t a false alarm,” he said. “It’s pretty much a total loss.”
Responding fire companies in-
cluded crews from Ocean Pines, Ocean City, Powellville, and Willards. They and others brought
Trial Board will now hear complaint after alleged affairs led to investigation
By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor
(Jan. 31, 2025) Three officers within the Ocean City Police Department (OCPD) are challenging a local board’s ruling in a misconduct investigation.
Last spring, the department launched an internal investigation after Worcester County’s Police Accountability Board received a complaint of workplace misconduct involving five officers on the force. Now, with a local committee formally handing down its recommended disciplinary measures, three of the officers involved have opted to appeal the decision to the Worcester County Trial Board.
“The matter is ongoing and is proceeding through the administrative process, as outlined in the Public Safety Article, at which time a finding will be finalized as to the outcome of the alleged conduct,” OCPD Deputy Communications Manager Ashley Miller said in a statement this week.
Last April, the Worcester County
Police Accountability Board received a citizen complaint detailing one female officer’s alleged interactions with four co-workers within the OCPD. In his written statement to Cpl. Michael Karsnitz, the complainant shared several instances in which his ex-girlfriend had conducted alleged affairs with the four named officers, both on and off duty.
In one recounting, the complainant shared explicit text message conversations between the female officer and one of her colleagues, including mentions of a sex tape the two had made in 2022. In another, he shared details of a supposed years-long relationship between her and second coworker. In that instance, the complainant said the pair had confessed to sending inappropriate Snapchat photos while one was on a work trip to Ohio and that the coworker acknowledged an “intimate and emotional” relationship that spanned five years.
In another recounting, the complainant alleged the female officer skipped CIT training at Wor-Wic Community College to meet with a third named coworker. The complaint also mentions a fourth relationship
See OFFICERS Page 24
Thomas J. Mar
Lumber yard will remain open
Continued from Page 22
the two-alarm fire under control within an hour though many firefighters remained on the scene until about 9 a.m.
Holland said it was the first-ever fire on the site of his family’s 117year-old business.
With the help of a rental trailer, Holland said the lumber yard will be back open this week, but hardware sales will be out of commission for some time. The store employs 11 people, and nobody will lose their job, he
added.
Berlin Mayor Zack Tyndall shared a photo of the fire on his Facebook page, stating, “It is a sad day in the Town of Berlin. The Adkins Company was founded in 1908 and is one of the longest-running businesses in our community. Thank you to the Berlin Fire Company and all of the neighboring departments who came in to help this morning. Please keep the Holland family and their employees in your thoughts and prayers.”
Officers appeal board findings
Continued from Page 23
between the female officer and a supervisor. The complainant alleged the two would send Snapchat messages.
In total, the complaint listed five officers from the Ocean City Police Department, including one supervisor and another in a supervisory position within a separate division. As a result of the complaint, the Ocean City Police Department last May suspended three of the named officers pending the results of an internal investigation by the OCPD Office of Professional Standards.
Since then, one officer has resigned and another has retired.
As part of the process, the results of the department’s internal investigation were forwarded to the Worcester County Administrative Charging Committee, a five-member group tasked with reviewing the investigation and recommending any disciplinary action. And recently, the committee handed down its ruling.
While the recommended disciplinary measures have not been made public, all except the two officers who have left the force have chosen to appeal the decision to the county’s trial board.
No date has been set for the proceedings.
Berlin radio station secures council support
By Tara Fischer Staff Writer
(Jan. 30, 2025) A new radio station is on its way to Berlin, which will include live and recorded music, educational programming, local history stories, roundtable discussions, emergency alert capabilities, and more.
The radio station, Radio Free Berlin, will operate at 94.1 FM and be managed by the nonprofit organization We Heart Berlin.
We Heart Berlin President Jeff Smith went before the town’s mayor and council at the body’s Jan. 27 meeting to seek a letter of support from the municipality for the communications initiative.
The body voted 3-0, with Councilmember Steve Green and Vice President Dean Burrell absent, to approve the request, with the caveat that the radio station communicate emergency alerts on behalf of the town.
The Town of Berlin will also provide the nonprofit with access to the
water tower at Bryan Avenue and Franklin Avenue to serve as the site of an antenna installation for clear radio station signal transmission.
Berlin Mayor Zack Tyndall maintained that the two parties, the municipality and the charitable organization, would enter into a use agreement and that the town would not charge We Heart Berlin a fee for their utilization of the water tower space.
“They are a nonprofit, and with that, we are trying to assist with them onboarding a radio station for Berlin, by Berlin,” Tyndall said.
Smith added that We Heart Berlin is in the process of applying for a grant through the county to help fund the project.
According to the president of We Heart Berlin, the group applied in December 2023 to obtain a lowpower FM radio station licensed by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to operate with a maximum of 100 watts of effective radiated power.
The FCC approved the application
in November 2024 and gave the nonprofit three years to construct an antenna and install a transmitter to broadcast the station’s signal, which will have a radius to cover the town of Berlin.
“We view this as a radio station in, for, about, and by the town of Berlin,” Smith said.
The station will offer local news and sports, original radio drama and theatre performances, a broadcast of mayor, council, and county commissioner meetings, local historical information, and more.
“One of our goals is to include the school systems in our programming,” Smith said. “We would have space on the air dedicated to the schools to be able to broadcast educational programs or have kids run their own shows on the air. We will also include
shows about Berlin’s history.”
Smith noted that the radio station will be operational for 24 hours “in theory” and that the FCC requires it to be operated for at least 5 hours a day.
Tyndall said he would also like the radio to implement emergency alerts, such as storm warning messages, to inform Berlin residents of any impending hazards or threats. Smith said they would be happy to do that.
“If it’s storm-related or something, we can provide that material to [the station operators], and they can push it out on our behalf,” the mayor said.
Per the FCC deadline, the We Heart Berlin radio station will have three years to construct the transmitter.
“I am ecstatic about this,” Councilmember Shaneka Nichols said.
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County supports 2 electronic signs for Ocean Pines
By Brian Shane Staff Writer
(Jan. 31, 2025) Ocean Pines will get two more electronic signs installed at the entrance to the community after successfully petitioning Worcester County leaders for a tweak to zoning rules.
“They’re not meant to do advertising or be flashy. It’s really just to provide information to our community,” Elaine Brady, a member of the Ocean Pines Association (OPA) Board of Directors, told the County Commissioners at their Jan. 21 meeting.
The commissioners unanimously granted OPA’s request for a text amendment to the county’s zoning code, the result of which grants permission for the electronic monument-style signs to be added to a commercial zoning district.
It means Ocean Pines will see two more monochromatic electronic signs added, at Manklin Creek Road and Cathell Road. The community already had one electronic sign at its North Gate entrance, Brady said.
Brady said the OPA had been focused on community beautification and wanted to reduce the visual clutter along Ocean Parkway. To that end, the OPA had already removed more than 80 directional signs, she said, and wanted to replace a dozen informational signs with the electronic ones.
Brady said OPA will be removing all signage that is not required on Ocean Parkway, which she said were distracting to walkers and bicyclists. It’s “for safety reasons as much as getting rid of the clutter,” she said.
Worcester County’s zoning code allows only one electronic messaging sign per lot or parcel, according to Jennifer Keener, the county’s director of Development Review and Permitting.
The OPA was looking for an exception to that rule, and Brady noted that two of the signs would be well over 1,000 feet apart. The minimum distance by code for signs is 100 feet apart.
The discussion on signage goes back to 2020. The county and the Ocean Pines Association eventually concluded that a text amendment was needed to accommodate the desired sign placement, Keener wrote in a Nov. 12 internal memo to county staff.
Some members of the county’s zoning staff expressed some concern that more than one electronic sign was not necessary, the memo said, and could potentially open the door for more commercial businesses to request electronic signs.
HIGH SHERIFF TRAIL • BERLIN
36 JUNEWAY LANE • OCEAN PINES
New Rising Tides
Festival planned for OC’s 150th
(Jan. 31, 2025) The Ocean City Department of Tourism announced this week plans to hold the Rising Tides Festival, a new music celebration developed in honor of the resort’s 150th anniversary year.
This immersive festival will transport attendees through decades of musical nostalgia while embracing the vibrant energy of Ocean City’s coastal charm.
On Nov. 22, 2025, the Roland E. Powell Convention Center, located along the Assawoman Bay, will transform into a time capsule, celebrating music and culture from the past. Festivalgoers can enjoy a wide range of nostalgic experiences, including an indoor roller-skating rink, a silent disco, and other immersive activities.
The centerpiece of the event will be the festival stage, hosting electrifying performances by Forever Young: I Love the 90s & Pop 2000’s Tour and the 70’s Soul Jam.
The full lineup will be announced on Friday, Jan. 31 at 10 a.m, with tickets available starting at noon on www.ococean.com.
“We are thrilled to announce the addition of Rising Tides Festival to Ocean City’s ‘150 Reasons to Smile’ anniversary lineup of entertainment offerings and events,” said Tom Perlozzo, director of tourism and business development for Ocean City Tourism. “This throwback festival will celebrate the charm and nostalgia of the past while embracing the vibrant spirit of Ocean City. We look forward to working with our local partners to welcome the iconic musicians and acts that will make this festival a true celebration honoring Ocean City’s past, present, and future.”
Announcing the festival on National Plan for Vacation Day highlights the perfect opportunity to plan your getaway to Ocean City.
“We encourage our visitors to take a trip back in time with us and plan a trip to enjoy the Rising Tides Festival or any one of our amazing events year-round,” Perlozzo said. “Join us in 2025 to experience the smiles, family fun, and coastal charm that Ocean City, Maryland, has been offering for the last 150 years.”
Travelers looking to act on National Plan for Vacation Day are encouraged to take advantage of Ocean City’s “Book Early and Save” promotion, introduced as part of Ocean City’s 150th anniversary festivities. Book your accommodations by Feb. 28, 2025, to enjoy exclusive early bird specials at participating hotels. This limited-time offer is a perfect opportunity for travelers to travel with significant savings.
Ocean City’s 150th Anniversary celebration continues throughout the year with a variety of events and activities designed to bring the community together.
For more information about the Rising Tides Festival and other anniversary events, visit www.ococean.com.
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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 31: Jack Bannon Saturday, February 1: Cup Of Joe
CRABCAKE FACTORY BAYSIDE
302-988-5000
37314 Lighthouse Rd., Rte. 54, Selbyville, DE
Friday, January 31: Bill Dickson Sunday, February 2: True Country Wednesday, February 5: Bilenki Duo
CRAWL STREET TAVERN
443-373-2756 Wicomico St., Downtown O.C. Friday, January 31: GrooveJoose Saturday, February 1: Rogue Citizens
FAGER’S ISLAND
410-524-5500 60th St., In The Bay Friday, January 31: DJ Mary Jane Saturday, February 1: Risky Business & DJ Stinson
Tuesday, February 4: Latin Night
GREENE TURTLE WEST
410-213-1500
Route 611, West OC Friday, January 31: Stringbuzzards
DJ MARY JANE Fager’s Island: Friday, January 31
BEATS BY STYLER Pickles Pub: Sundays & Wednesdays
DJ BILLY T Harborside: Fridays
BEATS BY WAX Pickles Pub: Tuesdays
CUP OF JOE Coins Pub: Saturday, February 1
DJ BIGLER Harborside: Saturday, February 1
RISKY BUSINESS
Fager’s Island: Saturday, February 1
THE STRINGBUZZARDS
Greene Turtle West: Friday, January 31
OPPOSITE DIRECTIONS
Harborside: Sunday, February 2
THE DUNEHOUNDS
Saturday, February 1
LOST FIGURES
Saturday, February 1
Saturday, February 1
Saturday, February 1
Who’s Where When
HARBORSIDE
410-213-1846
South Harbor Rd., West End O.C.
Fridays: DJ Billy T
Saturday, February 1:
Lost Figures & DJ Bigler
Sundays: Opposite Directions
Thursdays: Dust N Bones Duo
PICKLES PUB
410-289-4891
8th St. & Philadelphia Ave.
Fridays: Beats By DeoGee
Saturday, February 1:
The Dunehounds
Sundays: Beats By Styler
Mondays: Karaoke w/ Wood
Tuesdays: Beats By Wax
Wednesdays: Beats By Styler
Thursdays: Beats By DeoGee
SEACRETS
410-524-4900
49th St. & Coastal Hwy.
Friday, January 31: Carley Twigg & DJ Connair
Saturday, February 1:
Tommi Boi Duo, The Way Outs & DJ Davie
Thursday, February 6: Blake Haley
Pickles Pub:
BILENKI DUO
Crabcake Factory Bayside: Wednesday, February 5
TOMMI BOI DUO
Seacrets:
THE WAY OUTS
Seacrets:
Harborside:
Serving a major part of life for Fuchsluger
By Michael Todd Contributing Writer
(Jan. 31, 2025) This week we recognize Ocean City Volunteer Fire Company member Jacob Fuchsluger, who exemplifies the spirit of service both in our local community and our nation.
Fuchsluger’s journey in emergency services began during his high school years when a friend and classmate, Alex Bean, invited him to attend a fire cadet meeting.
“After a tour of the fire house, I was hooked and wanted to learn everything I could about the fire service,” Fuchsluger recalls. This inspiration led him to pursue EMT and firefighting courses at Worcester County Technical High School.
After joining as a cadet in 2016, Fuchsluger became an active member in 2020 and participated in the department’s livein program at Fire Station 5 from 20202022. His early career included working as both a part-time and full-time firefighter/EMT for several departments throughout Worcester County.
In the spring of 2022, Fuchsluger enlisted in the United States Navy, where his exceptional service and dedication led to his selection to attend the United States Naval Academy, where he is currently pursuing a Bachelor of Science degree as a Midshipman.
Among his most significant experi-
ences with OCVFC, Fuchsluger recalls the Harbor Inn fire and the Angler fire, where he was part of the first-arriving units.
“It was incredibly rewarding to show up on scene and just start getting to work. The attaboys from my fellow firefighters after each of those calls really cemented my love for the job,” he recalled.
Perhaps his proudest moment came during a medical emergency at Fire Station 5.
“I was fortunate enough to be at the right place at the right time and be able to contribute to the successful resuscitation of an infant,” he shares. “I was the first one on scene and still a relatively new EMT at the time, but all of my training paid off in those initial moments.”
The sense of family within OCVFC has left an indelible mark on Fuchsluger.
“My fondest memories in the fire service all occur around the dinner table. The kitchen is the heart of the fire house, and I love sitting down and breaking bread with my crew and sharing stories, telling jokes, and just enjoying each other’s company.”
Fuchsluger particularly credits the live-in program for his development as a firefighter. He especially acknowledges Jason Bloom, the resident “fire house dad,” who taught him life lessons extending well beyond firefighting.
For those considering joining the fire service, Fuchsluger says, “Don’t be afraid to just jump right into it. It can be intimidating to start something new like joining the fire company, but everyone in the OCVFC wants to pass on their knowledge to the next generation, all anyone has to
CROSSWORD
do is sign up.”
He added, “The same things that make Ocean City a great place to enjoy the summer also make it a challenging place to protect. The call volume during the summer and growing shoulder season brings a lot of opportunity for unique calls that you don’t really get to see anywhere else.”
We thank Jacob for his dedicated service to both our local community through OCVFC and our nation through his military service.
HOROSCOPE
ARIES – Mar 21/Apr 20
Express yourself with great confidence this week, Aries. You feel like you are in control and well organized. This is a recipe for success regarding the things you need to accomplish.
TAURUS – Apr 21/May 21
Taurus, you have a clear mind this week to put plans in place. But you might need some inspiration to get started. Avoid procrastinating.
GEMINI – May 22/Jun 21
There are many tasks that lie ahead this week, Gemini,. It will be essential that you stay focused. One of the areas to consider is changing personal health for the better.
CANCER – Jun 22/Jul 22
Cancer, you may find you’re an asset and sought-after among friends and coworkers. Use social situations to your advantage to network even more
LEO – Jul 23/Aug 23
Clear up some space at home so you can work more easily, Leo. Too much clutter in your home or work area can be a distraction. Disorganization can make tasks harder.
VIRGO – Aug 24/Sept 22
Practice being smooth and professional in your manner, Virgo. This will be the best way to get good results at work. Others may be impressed by how you handle yourself under pressure.
LIBRA – Sept 23/Oct 23
Libra, you might be very popular with superiors at work this week. Use this to your advantage to seek out a raise. Ask to head an important project.
SCORPIO – Oct 24/Nov 22
Scorpio, you can do anything you set your mind to. Share your ideas with others and determine which concepts have merit. If nothing comes up, go back to the drawing board.
SAGITTARIUS – Nov 23/Dec 21
Others admire your ability to be a good friend, Sagittarius. This week you will showcase your compassion and humility in myriad ways. It might garner you extra attention.
CAPRICORN – Dec 22/Jan 20
Capricorn, happy news is coming your way this week. Share the good fortune with others in your life, either a spouse or a sibling. These people can use some sunshine as well.
AQUARIUS – Jan 21/Feb 18
Aquarius, if at first you don’t succeed, you may need to change your approach to things. Enlist the help of others to help turn your ideas into results.
PISCES – Feb 19/Mar 20
Develop a better strategy for saving money, Pisces. You need some extra funds to pay for larger expenses, and clipping coupons alone might not be the answer.
READING TOURNAMENT
Fourth grade students at Ocean City Elementary School are participating in their annual Tournament of Books. Students will read 16 books and vote on their favorite in March. At the end of the tournament, each 4th grader will receive a copy of the winning book thanks to the Hertrich Cash for Class Program donation recently received for Lynn Wrench’s class. SUBMITTED PHOTO/ OC TODAY-DISPATCH
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, 7:30 a.m. to 9 p.m.
■ CRAWL STREET
19 Wicomico St., Ocean City, 443-373-2756, crawlstreet.com
Established in 2020 just a short walk from the legendary Cork Bar. Don’t leave without trying the famous wings, but everything on the menu is solid, including flatbreads, tacos, salads, sandwiches and seafood platters. Be sure to check out the live music offerings as the nightlife is top of the line.
■ DISTRICT 24 (CLOSED UNTIL MARCH)
BLU CRABHOUSE & RAW BAR, 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. 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 (CLOSED UNTIL FEBRUARY)
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.
UPTOWN
■ ALBERTINO'S BRICK OVEN & EATERY
13117 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, 410-2502000, albertinosoc.com
$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar
Featuring the best brick oven pizza, always handmade with fresh ingredients, Italian-American mouth-watering seafood specialties, traditional Italian pasta dishes, apps, soups and salads. Full bar with large local craft beer selection.
■ CAROUSEL OCEANFRONT HOTEL & CONDOS 118th Street, Ocean City 800-641-0011, www.carouselhotel.com
The Carousel Oceanfront Resort offers a family friendly casual dining experience with their Reef 118 restaurant. Offering dinner Thursday through Saturday from 5-9 p.m., featuring AYCE Crab legs. Serving breakfast on Fridays and Saturdays from 8 a.m. Their new "Go for 2" happy hour features $10 appetizers as a buy one get one free. $1 oysters during all open hours.
■ THE CRAB BAG
13005 Coastal Highway Ocean City, 410-2503337, thecrabbag.com
$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar
Featuring consistent hot steamed crabs, eat in or carryout. The Crab Bag is also an Eastern Shore style seafood house specializing in preparing and serving the biggest and the best blue crabs available. The extensive menu promises something for everyone. Winter hours, Friday-Sunday, open 11 a.m.
■ CRABCAKE FACTORY USA
120th Street, oceanside, Ocean City, 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.
■ NORI SUSHI BAR & GRILL
11403 Coastal Highway, Gold Coast Mall next to Sophia’s, Ocean City 443-880-6258, norioc.com
$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar
Voted Ocean City's best sushi, offering a fullservice bar, fresh sushi bar, seafood entrees, fried rice, vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free sushi and more. Open year-round, every day from 11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m.
■ SOPHIA'S ITALIAN RESTAURANT
11405 Coastal Highway, Gold Coast Mall, Ocean City 410-723-5188, www.sophiasitalianrestaurantoceancity.com
$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar
Full service offering entrees, pizza, subs, apps and salads. Expand your horizons with delicious options like sandwiches, calzones, and more. Try the cheese and tomato pizza and see why it's such a local favorite. Call us to order takeout or catering. Monday through Saturday, 11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Sunday, noon to 9 p.m.
■ 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.
lunch and dinner, too.
■ NANTUCKETS (CLOSED UNTIL FEBRUARY)
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 (CLOSED UNTIL MARCH)
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.
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.
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
■ 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
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.
OCEAN
FENWICK ISLAND
Fri., Jan. 31
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
FAMILY FORT NIGHT
Worcester County Library - Snow Hill Branch, 307 N. Washington St., 6:30 p.m. Bring your family to the library after-hours. Build a fort, read in the stacks and play some games, all when the library is closed. For ages 6-18 years. 410-632-3495, www.worcesterlibrary.org
KIGHTS OF COLUMBUS BINGO
Fridays - Knights of Columbus, 9901 Coastal Highway, behind St. Luke’s Church. Doors open at 5 p.m., bingo starts at 6:30 p.m. Light snacks available before bingo and at intermission. 410-524-7994
Sat., Feb. 1
FREE FAMILY EXPO BY GROWING FAMILIES
Ocean City Convention & Visitors Bureau, 4001 Coastal Highway, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Free baby boxes, kids scavenger hunt, face painting, raffles, infant weight check clinic, vendors, healthcare providers, community services and numerous local businesses. www.ourgrowingfamilies.net, 443-323-2151
LORRIE MORGAN & T GRAHAM BROWN
Ocean City Performing Arts Center, 4001 Coastal Highway, 7 p.m. A captivating night of country music. Tickets cost $35/$45/$55. Tickets: https://www.etix.com/ticket/p/983396 90/lorrie-morgan-tgraham-brownocean-city-oc-performing-arts-center.
SATURDAY WRITERS
Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 10 a.m. Novice and established writers gather to share their writing projects. Structure includes critiques and appreciation, market leads and writing exercises. Drop ins welcome. 410-641-0650
GLOBAL GOODIES
Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 10 a.m. Are all snacks created equal? Let’s taste test some snacks from around the world and find out. All food provided. For ages 618 years. 410-208-4014, www.worcesterlibrary.org
ALL-YOU-CAN-EAT FRIED CHICKEN BUFFET
Mt. Pleasant United Methodist Church, 36540 Mount Pleasant Road, Willards, 11 a.m. Vegetables, beverage and dessert included with dine-in. Carryout platters available for $15. No pre-orders. Dine-in costs are adults, $17; children, $8.50; and free to kids 5 years and younger.
410-835-8340
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., Feb. 2
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., Feb. 3
LITTLE LEARNERS PROGRAM
Ocean City Life-Saving Museum, 813 S. Atlantic Ave., Ocean City, 10-11 a.m. LifeSaving Reenactment with Coast Guard Members and Story Time. Free program designed for children ages 0-5 years, but all are welcome. Registration requested: ocmuseum.org. 410-289-4991
STORY TIME: WHALES
Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 10:30 a.m. Crafts, songs and stories. For ages 0-5 years. 410-524-1818, www.worcesterlibrary.org
ESL CONVERSATION CLUB
Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 2 p.m.
Join other non-native English speakers for casual conversational practice and a short lesson prepared by an ESL instructor. 410-524-1818, www.worcesterlibrary.org
The group is reading from Book 6 of the Great Conversations Anthology. The focus will be on “The Devil Baby at Hull House” by Jane Addams. 410-208-4014, www.worcesterlibrary.org
CAREGIVER SUPPORT GROUP
John H. “Jack” Burbage, Jr. Regional Cancer Care Center, 9707 Healthway Drive, Berlin, 3-4 p.m. Families, partners and other caregivers share similar challenges and rewards of providing care for adults who have any type of serious illness. Nicole Fry, nfry@atlanticgeneral.org, 410-641-2626
from Page 33
RESEARCHERS MEET UP
Worcester County Library - Snow Hill Branch, 307 N. Washington St., 3 p.m. Meet with fellow researchers to discuss local history, get tips from the local history librarian and work on the citizen research projects. 410-632-3495, www.worcesterlibrary.org
WARHAMMER
Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 4 p.m. Come play Warhammer. Use the library’s armies or bring your own. Tutorials and demos will be available. Novice and veteran players welcome. For ages 12-18 years. 410-6410650, www.worcesterlibrary.org
T.O.P.S. OF BERLIN - GROUP #169
Atlantic General Hospital, Conference Room 1, 9733 Healthway Drive, Berlin, 56:30 p.m. Take Off Pounds Sensibly is a weekly support and educational group promoting weight loss and living a healthy lifestyle. Rose Campion, 410-641-0157
UNDERGROUND RAILROAD: SYMBOLS AND SIGNS
Worcester County Library - Snow Hill Branch, 307 N. Washington St., 5:30 p.m. Learn about some of the secret meanings of the Underground Railroad quilts and create colorful wall hangings using these intentional graphics. Registration required: 410-632-3495.
BRIDGE
Mondays - Ocean City 50plus Center, 104 41st Street, Ocean City, 12:30-3:30 p.m. Reserve a spot: Tish, 410-8043971. www.Worcoa.org/oceancity
DELMARVA WOMEN’S A CAPELLA CHORUS
Mondays - Ocean Pines Community Center, 239 Ocean Parkway, 6:00-8:00 p.m. All ladies who love to sing invited. Mary, 410-629-9383 or Carol, 302-242-7062.
OVEREATER’S ANONYMOUS
Mondays - Worcester County LibraryOcean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 7-8 p.m. No dues or fees. 410-459-9100
Tues., Feb. 4
STORY TIME
Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 10:30 a.m. Featuring seasonal themes designed to support early literacy skills with stories, songs and fingerplays. For ages 0-5 years. 410-641-0650, www.worcesterlibrary.org
STORY TIME: BE MY VALENTINE
Worcester County Library - Pocomoke Branch, 301 Market St., 10:30 a.m. Crafts, songs and stories. For ages 0-5 years. 410-957-0878, www.worcesterlibrary.org
BABY TIME
Worcester County Library - Snow Hill Branch, 307 N. Washington St., 10:30 a.m. Songs, rhymes and stories. Stay after to socialize with other families. For
ages 0-2 years. 410-632-3495, www.worcesterlibrary.org
OC KNITTING GROUP
Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 10:30 a.m. Do you love to knit or crochet? Bring whatever project you happen to be working on. 410-524-1818, www.worcesterlibrary.org
MASTER GARDENERS PLANT CLINIC
Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 11 a.m. Master Gardener Ginny Rosenkranz talks about all things plants. Bring questions and feel free to show your plants as well. 410-208-4014, www.worcesterlibrary.org
DOCUMENTARY
Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 2 p.m. Learn about Black culture and music through this 1969 concert at the Harlem Cultural Festival. 410-524-1818, www.worcesterlibrary.org
NAILED IT! VALENTINE COOKIES
Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 4 p.m. Mix up some delicious cookies with love while writing valentines. For families. 410-208-4014, www.worcesterlibrary.org
BEACH HEROES-OC
Tuesdays - Volunteer beach clean-up group meets from 9-10 a.m., year-round. Trash bags, grippers and gloves provided. Check the Facebook page “Beach Heroes-OC” for weekly meeting locations. All are welcome.
JEHOVAH’S WITNESSES MEETING
Tuesdays - Berlin Congregation of Jehovah’s Witnesses, 212 West St., Berlin, 7 p.m. www.jw.org
TAKE OFF POUNDS SENSIBLY
Tuesdays - Worcester County Health 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., Feb. 5
BARIATRIC SUPPORT GROUP
Online Zoom call held the first and second Wednesday of each month. For nonsurgical patients. Atlantic General Bariatric Center, 410-641-9568
GRACE PARKER BREAKFAST
First Presbyterian Church of Ocean City, 1301 Philadelphia Ave., 7-11 a.m. Eggs, pancakes, sausage, grits and more. Cost is $10 to carryout and $12 to eat in.
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
PUZZLE SWAP
Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 1-5 p.m. Swap your gently used puzzle for a new-to-you puzzle. Don’t have a puzzle but stlll want one? That’s OK too. All puzzles must be in their original box. 410-641-0650, www.worcesterlibrary.org
RAPID RESPONSE TEAM OF WORCESTER COUNTY
Worcester County Library - Pocomoke Branch, 301 Market St., 2 p.m. Join the Rapid Response Team as they discuss what they do and how you can help. Naloxone training to follow discussion. 410-957-0878, www.worcesterlibrary.org
DIABETES SUPPORT GROUP
Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 5-6 p.m. Providing discussion and education on the topic of diabetes. Patti Yocubik, 410208-9761, pyocubik@atlanticgeneral.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., Feb. 6
CPAP MASK FITTING
Atlantic General Hospital’s Sleep Disorders Diagnostic Center, 9733 Healthway Drive, Berlin. Free mask fitting clinic for patients who are having trouble adjusting to their CPAP equipment. By appointment only: Robin Rohlfing, 410-641-9726.
STORY TIME: BLACK HISTORY MONTH
Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 10:30 a.m. Songs, stories and crafts. For ages 0-5
years. 410-208-4014, www.worcesterlibrary.org
PLAY TIME
Worcester County Library - Snow Hill Branch, 307 N. Washington St., 10:30 a.m. Join in for a variety of activities and toys. Play and socialize with other families. For ages 0-5 years. 410-632-3495, www.worcesterlibrary.org
CHESS CLUB
Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 10:30 a.m. Meet new friends and play some chess. Bring your boards. All are welcome. 410-524-1818, www.worcesterlibrary.org
POCOMOKE BRANCH BOOK CLUB: ‘SONG YET SUNG’ BY JAMES MCBRIDE
Worcester County Library - Pocomoke Branch, 301 Market St., 2 p.m. Drop by the Pocomoke Branch to pick up a copy of the book in advance. 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
QUIT SMOKING & VAPING CLASS
Gudelsky Family Medical Center, 10614 Racetrack Road, Ocean Pines, 5-6 p.m. Participants receive one-on-one support, group support, weekly prizes and quit resources. Register: 410-632-1100, Ext. 1103 or www.worcesterhealth.org.
PLANES, TRAINS, & AUTOMOBILES: HOW TRANSPORTATION SHAPED THE SHORE
Worcester County Library - Snow Hill Branch, 307 N. Washington St., 5 p.m. A presentation on how transportation has changed Worcester County throughout history. 410-632-3495, www.worcesterlibrary.org
ONGOING EVENTS
BLACK HISTORY MONTH COLLAGE
Pocomoke library, 301 Market St. Drop in anytime during February and add pictures, words, poems and anything inspiring to the collage featuring famous Black Americans. For families. 410-957-0878
Crossword answers from page 30
HVAC INSTALLER/SERVICE
TECHNICIAN
Local company based in Berlin. Starting at $25/hr. Salary dependent upon experience. PTO, paid major holidays and 401K benefits. 443-944-1054
Jessheinhvac@gmail.com
NOW HIRING!
PT Dental Hygienist for busy office in Ocean City, MD
Please call 410-213-1032.
SPEEDWORLD
Small Engine Mechanic. Year-round.
Wage starts at $15/hr & up based on experience. Benefits available. 443-754-1047
JOLLY ROGER FT POOL MAINTENANCE
Inspecting & assessing condition of pool equipment, performing minor & major repairs, documenting all pool maintenance & repair activities for record keeping. Outdoor work, lifting heavy objects. Mechanical, basic pool pump & motors. CPO a plus/must be able to pass CPO test. Includes weekends and long hours. Wages start at $15/hr & up based on experience. Benefits available. 410-289-4902
Ask for Suzanne.
RENTALS
YR RENTAL, WOC 1BR/1BA Cottage Living Room, Kitchen, Small Deck. Includes Utilities. Available Immediately. Call for more info 717-940-2039
YR RENTAL
Move-In Ready 4BR, 3BA, W/D Horn Island Drive West Ocean City Call 410-449-1434.
Seeking YR & Seasonal Rentals! Call Howard Martin Realty 410-352-5555.
Commercial Space Available South Gate Ocean Pines 750 sq. ft. $1200/month Call for details 410-430-3758
2 Office/Retail Spaces available in West Ocean City. Approximately 1656 sq. ft. and 1728 sq. ft. Call 443-497-4200
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. Call 443-497-4200.
DONATIONS
Do you have an old bicycle not being used? It could mean a world of difference to a hard-working international student. We are looking to get as many bikes as possible. Your donation will be taxdeductible. Contact Gary at 443-975-3065.
The contents of mini storage units will be sold online at Lockerfox.com. Ocean City Mini Storage. Units to be auctioned; B28B47-029-0151-0164. Units are being sold due to nonpayment of rent. Common items in units are, household items, furniture, tools, fishing equipment, paintings, antique and vintage items.
Date: Friday, January 31st, 2025 Time: 10:00 am
This will be an online auction. Please go to Lockerfox.com and register.
Feel free to call 410-2132029 for any questions regarding the online auction.
MISC./OTHER
Many browns and greys, Naked trees and winter sun, All of us and Him. His love is warm and yellow, And dances with the shadows!
MISC. FOR SALE
Get Boost Infinite! Unlimited Talk, Text and Data For Just $25/mo! The Power Of 3 5G Networks, One Low Price! Call Today and Get The Latest iPhone Every Year On Us! 855-977-5719
Get DISH Satellite TV + Internet! Free Install, Free HDDVR Upgrade, 80,000 OnDemand Movies, Plus Limited Time Up To $600 In Gift Cards. Call Today! 1-855-4076870
FOR SALE
Prepare for power outages today with a GENERAC Home Standby Generator. Act now to receive a FREE 5-Year warranty with qualifying purchase. Call 1-855-993-0969 today to schedule a free quote. It’s not just a generator. It’s a power move.
VEHICLES WANTED
DONATE YOUR CAR/TRUCK/ RV - Lutheran Mission Society of MD Compassion Place ministries help local families with food, clothing, counseling. Tax deductible. MVA licensed #W1044. 410-228-8437 www.CompassionPlace.org
REAL ESTATE We Buy Houses for Cash AS IS! No repairs. No fuss. Any condition. Easy three step process: Call, get cash offer and get paid. Get your fair cash offer today by calling Liz Buys Houses: 1-866-541-7929 SERVICES
DENTAL INSURANCE from Physicians Mutual Insurance Company. Coverage for 350 plus procedures. Real dental insurance - NOT just a discount plan. Do not wait! Call now! Get your FREE Dental Information Kit with all the details! 1-855-337-5228 www.dental50plus.com/ MDDC #6258
AYRIKA FLETCHER, ESQ. TRUSTEE
COUNCIL OF CO-OWNERS OF BOARDWALK ONE, INC.
P.O. BOX 762
Ocean City, MD 21842
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR WORCESTER COUNTY, MARYLAND
C-23-CV-24-000220
COUNCIL OF CO-OWNERS OF BOARDWALK ONE, INC.
P.O. BOX 762
Ocean City, MD 21842
Plaintiff v.
Hennriette Ventura, et al. Defendants
TRUSTEE’S SALE
OF TIME SHARE INTERVALS IN Boardwalk One Condominium OCEAN CITY, MD
By virtue of the power and authority resulting from a Claim of Lien recorded among the Land Records of Worcester County, Maryland, in Liber 8800 folio 392, and pursuant to the Order of the Circuit Court for Worcester County, Maryland for case no. C-23-CV-24-000220, the undersigned Trustee will offer for sale at public auction on the steps of the Circuit Court for Worcester County, Maryland, located at 1 West Market Street (Main Entrance), the following described property located in Snow Hill, Worcester County, Maryland, on Friday, January 31, 2025, at 12:15 PM the following timeshare intervals:
Condominium Unit Time Interval
UNIT 103 Week 27
UNIT 306 Week 36
UNIT 206 Week 37
UNIT 602 Week 38
UNIT 302 Week 38
UNIT 303 Week 39
UNIT 206 Week 38
UNIT 108 Week 38
UNIT 209 Week 39 UNIT 107 Week 39 UNIT 104 Week 39 UNIT 306 Week 40 UNIT 302 Week 40
UNIT 504 Week 40 UNIT 107 Week 40
UNIT 102 Week 40
Each time interval being one per year in the corresponding unit, each being part of the Boardwalk One Condominium Time-Share Regime, including an undivided interest in the common elements thereof, as established pursuant to a Declaration of Condominium and Timeshare recorded among the Land Records of Worcester County, Maryland and subsequent Declarations of Covenants, Conditions and Restrictions, as to each condominium and recorded among the aforesaid Land Records.
The property will be sold in an “as is” condition and subject to conditions, restrictions and agreements of record affecting the same, if any, and with no warranties and guarantees. A secured party may bid and shall be excused from deposit requirements. The Trustee reserves the right to
withdraw any interval from the sale and/or to reject any and all bids.
Terms of Sale: A payment of the full amount of the sales price per time interval will be required at the time of sale, such payment to be made in cash, check, or electronic payment. Cost of all documentary stamps, transfer taxes, 2025 maintenance fees and all other settlement costs shall be borne by the purchaser at settlement. The date of settlement shall be within fifteen (15) days after final ratification by the Circuit Court for Worcester County, Maryland. Time being of the essence; otherwise, the deposit will be forfeited, and the property will be resold at the risk and expense of the defaulting purchaser, or in any manner designated by the Trustee; or, without forfeiting the deposit, the Seller may exercise any of its legal or equitable rights against the defaulting purchaser. The purchaser waives personal service of any papers filed in connection with its failure to settle within ten days of ratification and expressly agrees to accept service by first class mail at the address provided by the Purchaser as identified on the Memorandum of Sale. The defaulted purchaser shall not be entitled to any surplus proceeds resulting from said resale even if such surplus results from improvements to the property by said defaulted purchaser. For more information, call: Ayrika Fletcher, Esq., Trustee, at 443.672.8107.
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AYRIKA FLETCHER, ESQ. TRUSTEE
COUNCIL OF CO-OWNERS OF BOARDWALK ONE, INC.
P.O. BOX 762
Ocean City, MD 21842
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR WORCESTER COUNTY, MARYLAND
C-23-CV-24-000216
COUNCIL OF CO-OWNERS OF BOARDWALK ONE, INC.
P.O. BOX 762
Ocean City, MD 21842
Plaintiff v.
Nicholas Peters, et al. Defendants
TRUSTEE’S SALE
OF TIME SHARE INTERVALS IN Boardwalk One Condominium OCEAN CITY, MD
By virtue of the power and authority resulting from a Claim of Lien recorded among the Land Records of Worcester County, Maryland, in Liber 8800 folio 392 and Liber 8599 folio 115, and pursuant to the Order of the Circuit Court for Worcester County, Maryland for case no. C-23-CV-24-000216, the undersigned Trustee will offer for sale at public auction on the steps of the Circuit Court for Worcester County, Maryland, located at 1 West Market Street (Main Entrance), the following described property located in Snow Hill, Worcester County, Mary-
land, on Friday, January 31, 2025, at 12:00 PM the following timeshare intervals:
Condominium Unit Time Interval
UNIT 307 Week 18
UNIT 403 Week 18
UNIT 106 Week 18
UNIT 504 Week 18
UNIT 402 Week 23
UNIT 303 Week 18
UNIT 108 Week 18
UNIT 101 Week 19
UNIT 203 Week 19
UNIT 205 Week 19
UNIT 103 Week 19
UNIT 202 Week 20
UNIT 102 Week 20
UNIT 102 Week 21
UNIT 104 Week 21
UNIT 306 Week 21
UNIT 205 Week 22
UNIT 306 Week 23
UNIT 602 Week 23
UNIT 504 Week 23
UNIT 106 Week 23
UNIT 601 Week 22
UNIT 106 Week 22
UNIT 504 Week 22
UNIT 109 Week 40
Each time interval being one per year in the corresponding unit, each being part of the Boardwalk One Condominium Time-Share Regime, including an undivided interest in the common elements thereof, as established pursuant to a Declaration of Condominium and Timeshare recorded among the Land Records of Worcester County, Maryland and subsequent Declarations of Covenants, Conditions and Restrictions, as to each condominium and recorded among the aforesaid Land Records.
The property will be sold in an “as is” condition and subject to conditions, restrictions and agreements of record affecting the same, if any, and with no warranties and guarantees. A secured party may bid and shall be excused from deposit requirements. The Trustee reserves the right to withdraw any interval from the sale and/or to reject any and all bids.
Terms of Sale: A payment of the full amount of the sales price per time interval will be required at the time of sale, such payment to be made in cash, check, or electronic payment. Cost of all documentary stamps, transfer taxes, 2025 maintenance fees and all other settlement costs shall be borne by the purchaser at settlement. The date of settlement shall be within fifteen (15) days after final ratification by the Circuit Court for Worcester County, Maryland. Time being of the essence; otherwise, the deposit will be forfeited, and the property will be resold at the risk and expense of the defaulting purchaser, or in any manner designated by the Trustee; or, without forfeiting the deposit, the Seller may exercise any of its legal or equitable rights against the defaulting purchaser. The purchaser waives personal service of any papers filed in connection with its failure to settle within ten days of ratification and expressly agrees to accept service by first class mail at the address provided by the Purchaser as identified on the Memorandum of Sale. The defaulted purchaser shall not be entitled to any surplus proceeds resulting from said resale even if such surplus results
from improvements to the property by said defaulted purchaser. For more information, call: Ayrika Fletcher, Esq., Trustee, at 443.672.8107.
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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.
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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MARIANNA BATIE ESQ. LAW OFFICE OF MARIANNA BATIE 1321 MOUNT HERMON RD., STE. B SALISBURY, MD 21804-5303
NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE
ESTATE NO. 20472
NOTICE IS GIVEN that the COURT OF COMMON PLEAS court of PIKE COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA appointed CATHERINE E. HEATLEY whose address is 802 SUGAR BUSH LN., TAFTON, PA 18464-9673 as the PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE of the Estate of GLENN D. JOHNSON who died on OCTOBER 30, 2024 domiciled in PENNSYLVANIA, USA
The Maryland resident agent for service of process is MARIANNA BATIE ESQ. whose address is 9748 STEPHEN DECATUR HWY., STE. 112, OCEAN CITY, MD 21842-9358
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.
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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PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION
NOTICE
OF PUBLIC HEARING
Pursuant to the provisions of Chapter 110, Zoning, of the Code of the Town of Ocean City, Maryland, notice is hereby given that a public hearing will be conducted by the Planning and Zoning Commission in the Council Chambers of City Hall located at 301 Baltimore Avenue in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland on:
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 4, 2025
At 7:00 pm
Pursuant to the provisions of Article II, Section 5, Conditional Uses, a request has been filed under the provisions of Section 110-514(22), Uses permitted by Conditional Use in the LC-1, Local Commercial, Zoning District, to permit an interior tenant fit-out with an amusement use that the Mayor and City Council may approve in keeping with uses specifically permitted in the LC-1 district. The site of the request is described as Lots 1 and 2, Block 103 of the Oceanbay City Plat; further described as being located on the west
PUBLIC NOTICE
The Mayor and City Council, a public community transit service provider in Ocean City, Maryland, is offering the opportunity for a public hearing to provide citizens a forum to present views on the following proposals:
FY 2026 Annual Transportation Plan (ATP).
The ATP contains requests for operating funds from the following programs: Section 5311 of the Federal Transit Act, which provides funds for general public transit service in rural areas; Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) program, which provides funds for federally required para transit services for persons with disabilities.
In addition, capital funds will be requested for the following items:
ITEM
Transit Vehicle Preventative Maintenance
TOTAL
$916,000
One (1) ADA 8/2 Cutaway Bus $110,000
Three (3) Heavy Duty 60’ Articulating Buses $3,180,000
TOTAL $4,206,000
A Public Hearing will be held upon request. Requests for a Public Hearing must be in writing and will be received until 4 p.m. Monday, February 24, 2025. Requests for a Public Hearing and/or other written comments should be sent to the following address and clearly marked “Public Hearing Comments”:
Ocean City Transportation 224 65th Street
Ocean City, Maryland 21842
Written comments can also be emailed to: Rob Shearman Jr. at rshearman@oceancitymd.gov
If requested, a Public Hearing will be held: Monday, March 3, 2025 6:00 p.m.
City Hall Council Chambers
301 North Baltimore Avenue Ocean City, Maryland 21842
If special assistance is required at the Public Hearing contact Ocean City Transportation, Administrative Coordinator, at 410-723-2174 prior to 4 p.m. Monday, February 24, 2025.
side of Coastal Highway, between 80th and 81st Streets, and known locally as 8001 Coastal Highway, in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland. APPLICANT: MAZE GAME LLC C/O EKATERINA GOLUB AND ASIYA ABDRAKHMANOVA, PRINCIPALS (PZ FILE #2512100005)
No oral or written testimony will be accepted after the close of the public hearing.
Public hearings that are not completed at one meeting may be continued without additional advertised notice provided the Commission Chairperson announces that the hearing will be continued and gives persons in attendance an opportunity to sign up for written notice of the additional hearing dates.
For further information concerning this public hearing, please contact the Department of Planning and Community Development, Room 242, City Hall, 301 Baltimore Avenue, Ocean City, MD 21842. Phone 410-289-8855.
PLANNING AND ZONING
COMMISSION
JOSEPH P. WILSON, CHAIRPERSON
MAUREEN HOWARTH, ESQ. ATTORNEY OCD-1/16/3t
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BWW Law Group, LLC 6003 Executive Blvd., Suite 101 Rockville, MD 20852
ANDREW J. BRENNER, et al. 6003 Executive Blvd., Suite 101 Rockville, MD 20852
Substitute Trustees/ Plaintiffs vs.
TERENCE MICHAEL MCCARTHY KAREN MCCARTHY
102 Hingham Lane, Unit 27 Berlin, MD 21811
Defendant(s) IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR WORCESTER COUNTY, MARYLAND Case No. C-23-CV-24-000207
NOTICE
Notice is hereby given this 15th day of January, 2025, by the Circuit Court for Worcester County, Maryland, that the sale of the property mentioned in these proceedings and described as 102 Hingham Lane, Unit 27, Berlin, MD 21811, made and reported by the Substitute Trustee, will be RATIFIED AND CONFIRMED, unless cause to the contrary thereof be shown on or before the 17th day of February, 2025, provided a copy of this NOTICE be inserted in some weekly newspaper
printed in said County, once in each of three successive weeks before the 10th day of February, 2025.
The report states the purchase price at the Foreclosure sale to be $376,000.00.
Susan R. Braniecki Clerk, Circuit Court for Worcester County, Maryland True Copy Test: Susan R. Braniecki Clerk of the Circuit Court Worcester County MD
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NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARINGS BOARD OF ADJUSTMENTS AND APPEALS
TOWN OF OCEAN CITY, MARYLAND
Pursuant to the provisions of Chapter 2 Administration, Article IV, Division 5 of the Code of the Town of Ocean City, Maryland hereinafter referred to as Code, same being the Board of Adjustments and Appeals Ordinance for Ocean City, Maryland, notice is hereby given that public hearing will be conducted in the Council Chambers of City Hall located at 301 Baltimore Avenue, Ocean City, Maryland.
Wednesday, February 5, 2025
At 3:00 PM
BAAV 25-010
A request has been submitted for a variance from TOC Code Section 38-71 (a)(5) West of Philadelphia Avenue to reduce the required 3’ freeboard elevation in the AE-6 flood zone for a portion of the new residential structure. Locally known as 510 32nd Street- parcel number 112-08-4481. Owner: The Mauck Family Trust Applicant: Bowden Construction Solutions
BAAV 25-011 A request has been submitted for a variance from TOC Code Section 38-71 (a)(5) West of Coastal Highway, to reduce the minimum 3’ freeboard elevation requirement above the AE-6 flood zone for substantial improvement of an existing interior townhouse unit. Locally known as 431 BAYSHORE DR UNIT B parcel number 5437 -209AA
Owner: 431B Bayshore Drive QOF, LLC
Applicant: Joerg U. Leineman OCD-1/23/2t
STEPHANIE SCALES SHERRIN ESQ.
SCALES LAW GROUP
12417 OCEAN GTWY., STE. 11 OCEAN CITY, MD 21842-9525
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 20446
TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF
TRACEY DELL’AQUILA
Notice is given that Tonia Maddaloni, 242 Ridgeview Rd., Kerhonkson, NY 12446-1553, was on January 17, 2025 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Tracey Dell’Aquila who died on July 21, 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 17th 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.
Tonia Maddaloni
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 23, 2025
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NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS
Estate No. 20484
TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF LOUVINIA EDNA PHILLIPS
Notice is given that Elizabeth Phillips, 8330 Old Westover Marion Rd., Westover, MD 21871-3504, was on January 15, 2025 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Louvinia Edna Phillips who died on November 04, 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 15th 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.
Elizabeth Phillips
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 23, 2025
OCD-1/23/3t _________________________________
NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF APPOINTMENT
OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE ESTATE NO. 20480
NOTICE IS GIVEN that the Circuit Court of Prince William County, Virginia appointed Christopher Burns, 25841 Singleton Ln., South Riding, VA 20152-1727 as the Personal Representative of the Estate of Thomas John Burns who died on September 13, 2024 domiciled in Virginia, America.
The Maryland resident agent for service of process is Marjorie Morris whose address is 10827 Boysenberry Ct., Waldorf, MD 20603-3956.
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.
Christopher Burns
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 23, 2025
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COHN, GOLDBERG & DEUTSCH, LLC
ATTORNEYS AT LAW
1099 WINTERSON ROAD, SUITE 301
LINTHICUM HEIGHTS, MARYLAND 21090
410-296-2550
File #: 462112
Richard E. Solomon
Richard J. Rogers
Michael McKeefery
Christianna Kersey
Kyle Blackstone
Jason Murphy
John Ansell
Jason Beers
1099 Winterson Road, Suite 301 Linthicum Heights, MD 21090
Substitute Trustees
Plaintiffs v. Eric Oliver AND Jeremy A. Cubert AND Amy K. Cubert
27 Island Edge Drive, Unit 27C Ocean City, MD 21842
Defendants IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR WORCESTER COUNTY, MARYLAND Case No. C-23-CV-24-000196
NOTICE
Notice is hereby given this 14th day of January, 2025, by the Circuit Court for Worcester County, that the sale of the property mentioned in these proceedings, made and reported, will be ratified and confirmed, unless cause to the contrary thereof be shovvn on or before the 17th day of February, 2025, provided a copy of this notice be published in a newspaper of general circulation in Worcester County, once in each of three successive weeks before the 10th day of February. 2025.
The Report of Sale states the amount of the foreclosure sale price to be $705,000.00. The property sold herein is known as 27 Island Edge Drive, Unit 27C, Ocean City, MD 21842.
Susan R. Braniecki Clerk of the Circuit Court Worcester County, Maryland True Copy Test: Susan R. Braniecki Clerk of the Circuit Court Worcester County MD
OCD-1/23/3t
ABDULVAHID MUSTAFA
Plaintiff v. JOHN JOHNSON, JR., ET AL.
Defendant IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR WORCESTER COUNTY STATE OF MARYLAND Case No.: C-23-CV-24-000327 AMENDED ORDER OF PUBLICATION
WHEREAS, in the Court Order entered on January 13, 2025, the Court incorrectly identified the prop-
erty at issue as "14 Parcel Number 02022141 Property Description
5706.36 SQ FT 208 E Martine St. Snow Hill Assessed to: Johnson John P Jr"; and
WHEREAS, the correct property at issue is 14 Parcel Number 02022141 Property Description
5706.36 SQ FT 208 E Martin St. Snow Hill Assessed to: Johnson John P Jr"; and
WHEREAS, the object of this proceeding is to secure the foreclosure of all rights of redemption in the following property, sold by the Collector of Taxes for the County of Worcester and the State of Maryland to the Plaintiff in this proceeding:
"The property is located in Worcester County, further described as List Number: 14 Parcel Number 02022141 Property Description
5706.36 SQ FT 208 E Martin St. Snow Hill Assessed to: Johnson John P Jr."
The Complaint states, among other things, that the amount necessary for redemptions have not been paid
IT IS thereupon on this 16th of January, 2025, by the Circuit Court for Worcester County, Maryland, ORDERED, that notice be given by the insertion of a copy of this order in some newspaper having a general circulation in Worcester County once a week for three (3) successive weeks, warning all persons interested in the property to appear in this Court by the March 14, 2025, and redeem "The property is located in Worcester County, further described as List Number: 14 Parcel Number 02022141 Property Description 5706.36 SQ FT 208 E Martin St. Snow Hill Assessed to: Johnson John P Jr." and answer the complaint or thereafter a final judgment will be entered in foreclosing all rights of redemption in the property, and vesting in the plaintiff a title, free and clear of all encumbrances.
Failure to answer or redeem this property within the time allowed may result in a judgment foreclosing the right of redemption.
Brian D. Shockley
JUDGE
The Maryland resident agent for service of process is JACQUELYN M GROSSNICKLE whose address is 352 W PATRICK ST FREDERICK, MD 21701-4887. 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 delivery of the notice. Claims filed after that date or after a date extended by law will be barred.
TERRI WESTCOTT, Register of Wills for WORCESTER COUNTY ONE W MARKET STREET ROOM 102 - COURT HOUSE SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1074
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B. RANDALL COATES ESQ COATES, COATES, & COATES 204 WEST GREEN STREET P.O. BOX 293
SNOW HILL, MD 21863
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS
To all persons interested in the estate of JOANNE B MARINER AKA: JOANNE BEACHBOARD
MARINER Estate No. 20494 Notice is given that R JAMES MARINER whose address is 147 BROMLEY DR WILMINGTON, DE 19808-1373 was on JANUARY 21, 2025 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of JOANNE B MARINER who died on JANUARY 11, 2025 with a will.
sented 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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TOWN OF BERLIN REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS
RFP # 2025 – 01 IT Managed Services
IT Managed Security Services
Due Date: Friday, February 7, 2025 Time: 3:00 P.M. EST
The Town of Berlin is seeking Proposals for Information Technologies Managed Services. Qualified firms are encouraged to visit the Town of Berlin website at berlinmd.gov/government/request-for-proposals/for official RFP.
Sealed proposals will be accepted until the due date and time as indicated above and within the RFP Document(s). EEO.
OCD-12/19/2t
TOWN
OF BERLIN
REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS
RFP # 2025-02
for the official RFP. EEO. OCD-12/19/2t
BRETT F. BALDINO
ROSENBERG MARTIN GREENBERG LLP
25 S CHARLES ST FL 21 BALTIMORE, MD 21201-3322
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT
NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 20415 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF KENNETH F. ARVIN
AKA: KENNETH FRANKLIN ARVIN
Notice is given that Ellen Arvin, 814 Cockeys Mill Rd., Reisterstown, MD 21136-5120, was on January 21, 2025 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Kenneth F. Arvin who died on October 08, 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 21st day of July, 2025.
True Copy
Test: Susan R. Braniecki Clerk of the Circuit Court Worcester County MD
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JACQUELYN M GROSSNICKLE LAW OFFICE OF TREGONING & GROSSNICKLE P C
352 W PATRICK ST FREDERICK, MD 21701-4887
NOTICE
TO CREDITORS OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVES
ESTATE NO 20490
NOTICE IS GIVEN that the SUPERIOR court of CHATHAM COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA appointed SARAH ELIZABETH TILLMAN whose address is 501 EASTOWNE DR STE 130 CHAPEL HILL, NC 27514-6224 as the FIDUCIARY of the Estate of DAVID L BOOTHE who died on SEPTEMBER 01, 2024 domiciled in NORTH CAROLINA, USA.
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 21st 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 pre-
Town of Berlin Well Building Replacement Powellton Avenue (Well #1)
Due Date: Friday, February 14, 2025 Time: 3:00pm EST
The Town of Berlin is seeking Proposals for the demolition of the existing well building and the construction of the new well building, including the installation of chemical storage tanks, chemical feed systems, interior and exterior water main installation, interior and exterior electrical, control, and mechanical work, interior water and sewer plumbing, exterior yard hydrant, gravity sewer lateral with cleanout, sewer manhole, sump pump with controls, small diameter forcemain, additional concrete work and all other work required by the plans and specifications, complete.
Qualified contractors are encouraged to visit the Town of Berlin website at berlinmd.gov/government/requestfor-proposals/ or contact Director of Water Resources Jamey Latchum at 410-641-3845/jlatchum@berlinmd.gov
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.
Ellen Arvin 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 30, 2025
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NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING WORCESTER COUNTY BOARD OF ZONING APPEALS AGENDA THURSDAY FEBRUARY 13, 2025
Pursuant to the provisions of the Worcester County Zoning Ordinance, notice is hereby given that a
public hearing will be held in-person before the Board of Zoning Appeals for Worcester County, in the Board Room (Room 1102) on the first floor of the Worcester County Government Center, One West Market Street, Snow Hill, Maryland. Audio and video recording will take place during this public hearing.
The public is invited to view this meeting live online athttps://worcestercountymd.swagit.co m/live
6:30 p.m. Case No. 25-8, on the lands of Ronnie Thompson, requesting a special exception to use a manufactured home for nonresidential use (personal storage) in the A-1 Agricultural District, pursuant to Zoning Code §§ ZS 1-116(c)(3), ZS 1201(c)(11), ZS 1-314 and ZS 1-305, located at 8001 Old Ocean City Road, Tax Map 14, Parcel 181, Tax District 3, Worcester County, Maryland.
6:35 p.m. Case No. 25-9, on the lands of Phat Hong Nguyen, on the application of Charles Shade, requesting a special exception to use a manufactured home for nonresidential use (control systems for an existing poultry operation) in the A-1 Agricultural District, pursuant to Zoning Code §§ ZS 1-116(c)(3), ZS 1201(c)(11), ZS 1-314 and ZS 1-305, located at 2519 Payne Road, Tax Map 100, Parcel 5, Tax District 1, Worcester County, Maryland.
6:40 p.m. Case No. 25-10, on the lands of Fedale Berlin LLC, on the application of Matt Wiley, requesting a variance to a front yard setback from 100 feet to 41.57 feet (to encroach 58.43 feet) for a proposed contractor shop in the C-2 General Commercial District, pursuant to Zoning Code §§ ZS 1-116(c)(4), ZS 1210, ZS 1-305 and ZS 1-326, located at 11726 Grays Corner Road, Tax Map 26, Parcel 99, Tax District 10, Worcester County, Maryland.
6:45 p.m. TABLED FROM THE DEC. 12, 2024 MEETING - Case No. 24-69, on the lands of Riverview Park LLC, on the application of Rauch Inc., requesting a special exception to construct a wastewater treatment facility to accommodate the enlargement of a mobile home park and a variance to the 300 foot setback requirement from the facility to other buildings not associated with the facility to 100 feet (to encroach 200 feet) in the R-4 General Residential District, pursuant to Zoning Code §§ ZS 1-116(c)(3), ZS 1116(c)(4), ZS 1-208(c)(9) and ZS 1328(c), located at 12623 Shell Mill Road, Tax Map 9, Parcels 167 and 268, Tax District 5, Worcester County, Maryland.
TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF THERESA ANN SWARTZ
Notice is given that Rodney
Emlet, 751 Oak Leaf Ln., Harrisburg, PA 17111-2360, was on January 22, 2025 appointed personal representative of the small estate of Theresa Ann Swartz who died on October 22, 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.
Rodney Emlet
Personal Representative True Test Copy Register of Wills for Worcester County Terri Westcott One W. Market Street Room 102 - Court House Snow Hill, MD 21863-1074
Name of newspaper designated by personal representative: Ocean City Digest
Notice is hereby given by the Mayor and City Council of Ocean City, that Ordinance 2025-01 was introduced for first reading at their meeting of January 21, 2025. Second reading is scheduled February 3, 2025. A complete text of the ordinance is available for review in the Office of the City Clerk, City Hall 3rd Street and Baltimore Avenue, Ocean City, MD 21842, or online at oceancitymd.gov in the January 21, 2025, agenda packet. This ordinance
adopts regulations for occupancy, property management and administration of short-term rentals.
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TOWN OF OCEAN CITY ORDINANCE
2025-02
RE: Definition of Family
Notice is hereby given by the Mayor and City Council of Ocean City, that Ordinance 2025-02 was introduced for first reading at their meeting of January 21, 2025. Second reading is scheduled February 3, 2025. A complete text of the ordinance is available for review in the Office of the City Clerk, City Hall 3rd Street and Baltimore Avenue, Ocean City, MD 21842, or online at oceancitymd.gov in the January 21, 2025, agenda packet. This ordinance amends the definition of “family” in Chapter 110, Zoning, relevant to occupancy limitations.
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Mayor & City Council Ocean City, Maryland
PROPOSAL SOLICITATION
P04-25 – Canoe, Kayak, and StandUp Paddleboard Concessions
The Mayor & City Council of Ocean City is seeking Proposals from qualified and experienced Vendors to provide for the Canoe, Kayak, and Stand-Up Paddleboard Concessions and for said work to conform with the Proposal Documents. RFP Documents for the Canoe, Kayak, and Stand-Up Paddleboard Concessions may be obtained from the Town’s Procurement Department by either e-mailing the Procurement Manager, Matt Perry, at mperry@oceancitymd.gov or Dawn Webb at dwebb@oceancitymd.gov, or by calling (410) 723-6643 during regular business hours, or via the Solicitations tab on the Town’s (https://oceancitymd.gov/oc/procurement-bids/) website. Vendors are responsible for checking this website for Addenda before submitting their RFP’s. The Town is not responsible for the content of any Proposal Document received through any thirdparty service. Vendors are responsible for ensuring the completeness and accuracy of their Completed Proposal Documents.
A pre-proposal meeting is not applicable for this Request for Proposal. The last day for questions will be on MONDAY, FEBRUARY 10TH, 2025, AT 3:00PM. Addendum will be posted by close of business on FRI-
DAY, FEBRUARY 14TH, 2025. Sealed RFP Documents are due no later than THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 27TH, 2025, BY 3:00 PM. RFP submissions will be opened, read aloud, and then remanded back to staff for further review at the PROCUREMENT OFFICE CONFERENCE ROOM, ON FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 28TH, 2025, AT 10:00AM. RFP’s are to be submitted to the Procurement Office located at 214 65th Street, Ocean City, MD 21842, and the name of the Solicitation (Canoe, Kayak, and Stand-Up Paddleboard Concessions) must be noted on the outside of the package. Late RFP Documents will not be accepted.
Minority Vendors are encouraged to compete for the Award of the Solicitation.
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NOTICE
OF INTRODUCTION OF EMERGENCY BILL 25-01 WORCESTER COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
Take Notice that Emergency Bill 25-01 (Zoning – Public Utility Operation Center) was introduced by Commissioners Abbott, Bertino, Bunting, Elder, Fiori, Mitrecic, and Purnell on January 21, 2025.
A fair summary of the bill is as follows:
§ ZS 1-103(b). (Adds the definition for “marine activity” in the Zoning and Subdivision Control Article to describe activities required for, supportive of, or commonly associated with the operation, storage, loading and unloading of boats, waterfront dock and port facilities, boat fuel and equipment supply, and other activities associated with the commercial and recreational fishing industry. Marine activities shall not include portside infrastructure or associated facilities that are intended to support offshore energy production.)
§ ZS 1-103(b). (Adds the definition for “marine yard” in the Zoning and Subdivision Control Article to describe structures or storage yards for the fueling, boat launching and recovery, dry storage of seaworthy boats in operable condition, maintenance facilities for all types of hull, deck and interior repairs and painting, and boat construction.)
§ ZS 1-103(b). (Adds the definition for “public utility operation center” in the Zoning and Subdivision Control Article to describe facilities, structures and any or all uses directly relating to the operation and maintenance of a public utility, including, but not limited to: (1) Operating utility system controls; (2) Business offices and associated accessory uses; (3) Indoor and outdoor vehicular and material storage yards for the constructing, maintenance and or repair of the utility system; (4) Incidental fueling and maintenance facilities; or (5) Indoor and outdoor assembly, repair, maintenance, testing and storage of utility system components, equipment, tools and supplies.)
§ ZS 1-103(b). (Adds the definition for “transportation station or terminal” in the Zoning and Subdivision
Control Article to describe properties or structures associated with the transportation, loading and unloading of goods or freight by truck, rail or watercraft, but excluding warehousing and maintenance facilities.)
§ ZS 1 214(a). (Repeals and reenacts the purpose and intent statement in the CM Commercial Marine District.)
§ ZS 1 214(b)(8). (Repeals the permitted use for public utility structures and properties in the CM Commercial Marine District.)
§ ZS 1 202(c)(11). (Repeals and reenacts the special exception use for marine yards in the A-2 Agricultural District.)
§ ZS 1 203(c)(18). (Repeals and reenacts the special exception use for marine yards in the E-1 Estate District.)
§ ZS 1 210(b)(21). (Adds a new permitted principal use for public utility operation centers in the C-2 General Commercial District.)
§ ZS 1 211(b)(27). (Adds a new permitted principal use for public utility operation centers in the C-3 Highway Commercial District.)
§ ZS 1 212(b)(22). (Adds a new permitted principal use for public utility operation centers in the I-1 Light Industrial District.)
§ ZS 1 213(b)(25). (Adds a new permitted principal use for public utility operation centers in the I-2 Heavy Industrial District.)
A Public Hearing
will be held on Emergency Bill 25-01 at the Commissioners’ Meeting Room, Room 1101 – Government Center, One West Market Street, Snow Hill, Maryland on Tuesday, February 18, 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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JESSICA H. MCCONNELL ESQ
JIMENO AND GRAY, P.A.
7310 RITCHIE HIGHWAY, SUITE 900
GLEN BURNIE, MD 21061
SMALL ESTATE
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE NO. 20401 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF MARCUS ASHLEY SWISHER
Notice is given that Mariah Ashley Swisher, 109 E. Pine St., Ephrata, PA 17522-2135, was on January 24, 2025 appointed personal representative of the small estate of Marcus Ashley Swisher who died on August 21, 2023, without a will. Further information can be ob-
PUBLIC NOTICE
The motor vehicles described below have been abandoned. The owners and lien holders are hereby informed of their right to reclaim the vehicles upon payment of all charges and costs resulting from the towing, preservation, and storage of the vehicles.
The failure of the owners or lien holders to reclaim the vehicles within three weeks of notification shall be deemed a waiver by the owners or lien holders of all rights, title and interest and thereby consent to the sale of the vehicles at public auction or to have it otherwise disposed of in a manner provided by law.
These three weeks of notification begins on DATE: 01/30/2025
All
AUTH: Michael Colbert
I-Chief of Police
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 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.
Mariah Ashley Swisher Personal Representative True Test Copy Register of Wills for Worcester County Terri Westcott One W. Market Street Room 102 - Court House Snow Hill, MD 21863-1074
Name of newspaper designated by personal representative: Ocean City Digest
Date of publication: January 30, 2025 OCD-1/30/1t
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. 20498 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF PATRICIA JANE RIPPIN
AKA: PATRICIA J. RIPPIN
Notice is given that Randy Rippin, 8 Beach Ct., Berlin, MD 218111527, was on January 23, 2025 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Patricia Jane Rippin who died on November 28, 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 23rd 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 pre-
sented 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.
Randy Rippin 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 30, 2025
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REENA J. PATEL ESQ. LAW OFFICE OF MARIANNA BATIE 1321 MOUNT HERMON RD., STE. B SALISBURY, MD 21804-5303
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 20487 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF JANET HANBY JOHNSON
AKA: JANET H. JOHNSON
Notice is given that Jane Johnson, 10524 Sussex Rd., Ocean City, MD 21842-9148 and Joseph Johnson, 110 S. Ogle Ave., Wilmington, DE 19805-1421, were on January 17, 2025 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Janet Hanby Johnson who died on November 06, 2022, 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 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.
Jane Johnson
Joseph Johnson
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: January 30, 2025
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MARIANNA BATIE ESQ. BATIE LAW LLC
9748 STEPHEN DECATUR HWY., STE, 112 OCEAN CITY, MD 21842-9358
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT
NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 20488 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF SHIRLEY MAE KURINIJ
Notice is given that Stephen John Kurinij, 20215 Bristol Mesa, San Antonio, TX 78259-2450, was on January 17, 2025 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Shirley Mae Kurinij who died on De-
cember 02, 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 17th 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.
Stephen John Kurinij 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 30, 2025
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REENA J. PATEL ESQ. LAW OFFICE OF MARIANNA BATIE 1321 MOUNT HERMON RD., STE. B SALISBURY, MD 21804-5303
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 20486 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF RUTH ANN AKER
Notice is given that Timothy August Ryan, 10 Windswept Dr., Berlin, MD 21811-2718, was on January 17, 2025 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Ruth Ann Aker who died on November 21, 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 July, 2025.
Any person having a claim against the decedent must present the claim to the undersigned per-
sonal representative or file it with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates:
(1) Six months from the date of the decedent’s death; or
(2) Two months after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claims within two months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. A claim not presented or filed on or before that date, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter. Claim forms may be obtained from the Register of Wills.
Timothy August Ryan 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 30, 2025
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SMALL ESTATE NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE NO. 20489 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF DONNA JANE STOKES
Notice is given that Robert James Stokes Jr., 111 58th St., Unit 9, Ocean City, MD 21842-5371, was on January 21, 2025 appointed personal representative of the small estate of Donna Jane Stokes who died on November 12, 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 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.
Robert James Stokes Jr. Personal Representative True Test Copy Register of Wills for Worcester County Terri Westcott
One W. Market Street
Room 102 - Court House Snow Hill, MD 21863-1074
Name of newspaper designated by personal representative: Ocean City Digest
Date of publication: January 30, 2025
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SMALL ESTATE NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE NO. 20492 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF JEAN A. COLLINS
AKA: JEAN ABBOTT COLLINS
Notice is given that Cynthia Collins Allner, 13820 Longnecker Rd., Reisterstown, MD 21136-4843, was on January 21, 2025 appointed personal representative of the small estate of Jean A. Collins who died on January 14, 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 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.
Cynthia Collins Allner Personal Representative True Test Copy Register of Wills for Worcester County Terri Westcott One W. Market Street Room 102 - Court House Snow Hill, MD 21863-1074
Name of newspaper designated by personal representative: Ocean City Digest
Date of publication: January 30, 2025
Tax credit for renovations offered
By Lauren Bunting
Contributing Writer
(Jan. 31, 2025) The Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) administers a State of Maryland tax credit for residents of the state who have renovated a home to be more accessible.
The tax credit may be up to 50% of the cost of the renovation up to $5,000, whether it’s your own home, the home of a family member, or a rental property.
To claim this credit, the renovations must have taken place during the prior tax year, and you must demonstrate the costs incurred with receipts, invoices, before and after pictures, etc. Any approved accessibility features will be considered in the calculation for the tax credit amount.
You must be a Maryland resident and be able to show proper documentation of the repairs to qualify. After you have completed your renovation, the following steps are necessary to claim your tax credit: (1) File your taxes for the calendar tax year in which you completed the renovation. (2) Fill out the Independent Living Tax Credit Application (can be found online at DHCD’s website). (3) Submit
your application to DHCD by June 1st of the current calendar year. DHCD will complete its review of your application by August 1st of the current calendar year. (4) Once your application is approved, you must complete and file an amended tax return (Form 502X) with the DHCD tax credit certification attached.
Any renovations that will assist a person in their home can qualify for a tax credit. Some examples of accessibility features include, but are not limited to no-step entrance; doorways with a 32inch wide (or wider) clear opening; grab
bars and reinforced walls to support; handrails; rocker panel light switches; accessible route to no-step entrance inside and outside of home; accessible handles on doors, plumbing fixtures; chairlifts and elevators; roll-in shower/tub
No-step route to accessible home entrance; railings for exterior or interior steps; railings for hallways; slip-resistant floors; accessible door hardware; and creation of accessible parking space.
Lauren Bunting is the Broker for Keller Williams Realty of Delmarva in Ocean City.
By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor
(Jan. 31, 2025) A joint meeting of the Mayor and City Council and the town’s planning commission will include a discussion on Ocean City’s updated comprehensive plan.
On Feb. 25, the Mayor and City Council will hold its fourth joint meeting with the Ocean City Planning Commission in an effort to work through some of the town’s top priorities. Planning and Community Development Director George Bendler said the upcoming session will focus on the comprehensive plan, which
is currently undergoing updates.
“I would like to specifically talk about the comprehensive plan at that joint session,” he told planning commission members last week. “I didn’t know if the commissioners would like anything on that agenda. I would think the primary focus should be the comprehensive plan, but we’re welcome to put any other things forward to discuss.”
A rift between council members and planning commissioners was first made evident in 2022, when the council removed two proposed code amendments
Comp plan meeting suggested REAL ESTATE MARKETPLACE
French Onion Soup simply good
By Deborah Lee Walker Contributing Writer
(Jan. 31, 2025) Onion soup dates back to a time where Greeks and Romans enjoyed a broth made with cooked onions.
The French added depth to the dish by caramelizing the onions to bring out the natural sweetness. To top things off, the French also added
Gruyere and toasted bread which not only changed the dynamics of the soup but added a sophisticated touch to a modest soup.
The three main components of the soup are onions, broth, and cheese.
When a recipe calls for sauteed or caramelized onions, it is typically looking for onions to be sliced pole to pole (vertically).
Broth is the next issue at hand. A combination of beef, veal, and chicken ensures a rich foundation
and delightful piquancy.
The gooey, crusty cheese is the final phase and piece de resistance. Gruyere is the best but it is expensive.
The following recipe is well worth the extra effort. Enjoy!
Ingredients
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
3 large yellow onions, sliced
3 large sweet onions, sliced
4 large cloves of garlic, plus extra-virgin olive oil for drizzling (optional)
¼ cup dry sherry, plus 1 tablespoon
4 cups chicken broth
3 cups veal stock
2 cups beef broth
soft, start checking after 35 minutes. When cool, peel off the skins of garlic.
3. In a medium pot, add caramelized onions, roasted garlic, sherry, broths, dried herbs, bay leaf, and salt. Bring mixture to a boil, reduce heat to low, and simmer for 30 minutes.
4. Remove bay leaf and garlic, and readjust seasonings if necessary.
5. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Toast baguette slices until crisp.
1 large bay leaf
½ teaspoon dried thyme
½ teaspoon Herbs de Province kosher salt to taste and freshly ground black pepper
1 small baguette, cut into ½-inch slices
8 ounces shredded Gruyere cheese
4 ounces Italian blend
1. In a large iron skillet, melt butter over medium-low heat. Add sliced onions and saute until caramelized and golden brown. Stir occasionally.
2. Meanwhile, preheat toaster oven to 275 degrees. Place garlic with skin on in an oven proof small bowl. Drizzle olive oil and bake until garlic is very
6. In a small bowl, mix cheeses together.
7. Set individual broiler-safe rocks on a baking sheet and fill each bowl almost to the top.
8. Top each bowl with baguette slices.
9. Place a heaping mound of cheese on top of the baguette slices.
10. Place bowls under the broiler and broil until cheese is golden brown and bubbly.
11. Add a dusting of freshly ground black pepper and serve immediately.
Secret Ingredient – Temptation I can resist anything except temptation.
Oscar Wilde
Pocomoke council approves Armory demo
By Brian Shane Staff Writer
(Jan. 31, 2025) It stood proud, like a castle, for nearly a century. Now, shattered windows, ivy-covered brick, and a host of environmental contaminants plague Pocomoke City’s historic Armory building on Second Street.
But it won’t stand for much longer. Town officials have decided to demolish the aging and derelict facility, now camouflaged by deterioration, and have begun dreaming of other ways to use the 18,000-square-foot parcel.
“Tearing down this building, while it’s heartbreaking, it needs to happen,” said Mayor Todd Nock in an interview. “It is our job as elected officials to make the hard decision. This is something we’ve been working on for years. This building is coming down. However, it is also a cry for a new community center in our city.”
City Manager John Barkley said the city council decided to raze the building because it’s been deemed as unsalvageable and a threat to public health and safety.
He said he’d like to recover enough of the Armory’s original bricks to build a veteran’s memorial at Cypress Park. He also said attempts will be made to preserve the Maryland flag emblem carved in granite over the main entryway.
“We have high hopes for the highest and best use of that property going for-
ward,” Barkley said in an interview. “There’s a sentimental attachment by many in the city, so it was a difficult decision, I’m sure, by the city council, but I think they made the right one.”
The council on Jan. 14 approved a bid for demolition to Miller’s Land Services. Company owner Ryan Miller in an interview said it will take about two weeks to complete asbestos removal and abatement. Once the Maryland Department of the Environment approves that portion of the process, then demolition will begin, a two-day process.
From there, once debris and bricks are removed, Miller said his crew will have to backfill the basin, which will take about 120 loads of dirt. He said the entire job would be complete in about 30 days, after abatement is approved.
However, Nock says the city still needs to get possession of the property deed before demolition can begin. Overall, red tape had slowed the process some, Nock added, because of what he called a “reverter clause.”
Pocomoke City does own the building, a former Maryland National Guard facility, but there was a stipulation with the property: if it wasn’t utilized for a public use, then its ownership would revert back to the State of Maryland. But the state doesn’t want the building, according to Nock, and so the city recently has been able to get that clause lifted.
“We can do anything we want to do with it at this point,” he said.
Located at the corner of Second Street and Willow Street, the 11,200-square-foot building originally served as an armory for the Maryland National Guard. It was one of many Guard armories constructed in the 1910s and 20s (state property records say it was built in 1924, though contemporaneous records say 1927) by the architect Robert Lawrence Harris.
Harris designed identical armories for more than a dozen battalions statewide, including in Salisbury, Cambridge, and Crisfield, according to the Maryland Historical Trust. It means the Pocomoke Armory mirrors its sister buildings, right down to the decorative battlements atop square turrets, the raised turnaround driveway, and the massive granite-carved state flag over the entrance.
For the next four decades, the building hosted countless community events, including dances, basketball games, graduations, concerts, and receptions.
By 1968, the Guard reorganized and no longer convened at the Pocomoke Armory, which was deemed inadequate for being too small. The state reportedly sold it to Pocomoke City for one dollar, according to a July 24, 1969, report from the Democratic Messenger newspaper.
“We’re sorry to see the National Guard leave Pocomoke,” former Mayor
J. Dawson Clarke was quoted as saying. “But if the city can use the building for a community center, I think we’d be foolish not to accept this valuable piece of property when it is being offered practically as a gift.”
The town made the Armory its police station, which remained well-kept for years. Photos from 2008 show neatly trimmed hedges and a flagpole with Maryland and U.S. flags flying. The driveway was full of unmarked police cars and the concrete curb, now flaked and fragmented, had been painted a clean, stark white.
But today, the facility is in marked disrepair. A 2019-20 study from the Environmental Protection Agency found the property is contaminated by asbestos, petroleum products, and semivolatile organic compounds.
And, because the police department (which has since relocated) used the basement for an indoor shooting range, it resulted in lead and heavy metal contamination, which affected the groundwater and the soil, the study said.
Nock called the neglect a “sad state of affairs.”
“I blame previous mayors and councils for allowing this to happen,” Nock said. “They could have handled this situation. When our police department moved out of the building, our city should have immediately started reno-
See FUTURE Page 49
by Steve Green
MThe Adventures of Fatherhood
y head is spinning today from four days spent touring colleges with my high school junior. Therefore, I need to reprint a column from Dec. 10, 2009, when times were simpler, although they didn’t seem so at the time.
Nineteen months ago, life, as I knew it, changed forever when my son Beckett was born, and it gives me great pleasure to report the birth of our second son last month.
On Nov. 5, 2009, Carson Harper was born, bringing the total number of males living in my house to five. With the two dogs, his big brother and myself, my poor wife is now outnumbered more so. In the months leading up to Carson’s birth, we tried our best to prepare for the inevitable changes coming our way once we brought our newborn into Beckett’s house.
After one month, I can safely say all that was futile. There’s really no way to adequately get ready for what happens when you bring another child into the house, particularly one currently dominated by a toddler. You just wing it and adjust as you go.
Having two kids under the age of 2 years old (separated specifically by a little less than 18 months) has proven to be quite the experience, one Pam and I are charting under exhausted conditions.
Our emotions and well-being have basically been linked to coping with the inevitable adjustment that comes with having a baby in the same house as a 19-month-old bruiser.
Throughout the course of this column, I try to be honest with my feelings and emotions, perhaps to a fault, as some surely say I take the proud, doting daddy to new extremes. That’s probably true but I can only be who I am. With that approach in mind, I have to admit the early stages of this period of my life have been quite overwhelming and stressful.
I thought my life took a crazy turn when Beckett was born in May of 2008, but the arrival of Carson has rocked my world.
I look back on the early days with Beckett now and realize how simple it was because we could focus entirely on him. We were fine with waking up at 4 a.m. for a feeding or to change a diaper because it was so new. It was all tremendously wonderful and such a blessing.
Nowadays, that 3 a.m. crying fit is not viewed the same way. We simply get through it. It’s a profoundly different feeling and experience than it was the first time around. This is just one of the many different approaches with the second child.
I presume these changes are simply a result of experience. For instance, a cry no longer sends us hurdling furniture in an attempt to soothe the baby. My wife does not always sit in the car’s backseat with the kids now. A bout of gas does not send me on a late-night search for Mylicon drops. A reluctance to finish an entire bottle is not a cause for concern. An inability to sleep through the night does not lead me to consult a book to see if it’s normal. A spit up does not cause heart palpitations. A long nap does not lead my wife to put her head down to his chest (at least as much as it did previously). A day without a bath is not a big deal.
Off all the changes between the first and second child, I am most amazed at how I have now begun hearing voices, which I blame on a loss of sleep.
I was told this might happen by some other experienced parents, but I didn’t take them seriously. I am a believer now, as I am hearing the voices, screams and cries of both my kids when they are actually not there.
On the rare instances that both my boys are asleep at the same time, I seem to find myself questioning my sanity. In the shower on a couple of occasions, I have rushed to get out, only to find I have been in only a few minutes and that the house is silent, as it was
when I jumped in.
I also have begun hearing my kids’ voices while I am at work. At one point this week, I convinced myself that my wife must have brought the boys to work to surprise me because I heard Beckett’s squeals and Carson’s dirty diaper cry, only to find out later everyone was home.
Yes, I think I am going a little crazy with these two little guys in my house, but I keep telling myself it’s normal. Aside from this strange turn of events, I adore life with my boys and the adjustment seems to get easier with every passing day as we figure out our new routines. However, that’s not to say there are not some moments of craziness.
The other night, I was home alone with the boys. At this particular time, I was giving Carson a bottle and Beckett was being a typical active toddler. I was in the living room, and he had haphazardly sprinted to the kitchen and began emptying a cupboard, as he is prone to do. After a series of familiar clangs and bangs, there were a few moments of silence, which made me extremely uncomfortable. I would always rather hear noise than not. Silence sparks uncertainty.
With baby in hand, I quickly headed to the kitchen to find Beckett’s body almost entirely in the cupboard. I could only see a portion of his chunky calf and his chubby foot, which had lost the sock that donned it a few minutes before (it’s still missing today, by the way).
One year ago, I would have hastily pulled him out of the cabinet, fearing something silly would happen. Now, I laughed and shrugged, wondering, ‘he can’t really hurt himself in there.’ Yes, my life is plenty different these days, but also better.
(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.)
Comp plan on meeting planned
Continued from Page 45
brought forward by the commission. And that fall, the two groups met for the first time to clear the air.
Over the course of two meetings – one held in September 2022 and another held in December 2022 – officials discussed topics such as nonconforming signs, LED lighting, parking, building heights, workforce housing and conditional use approvals, among other things.
And last February, the two groups met once more to continue those conversations, but with a discussion on the town’s comprehensive plan added to the list.
During last week’s planning commission meeting, Commissioner Joel Brous asked if a discussion on short-term rentals in the R-1 residential district would be on the agenda for the February joint session. Bender said that while ordinances have already been brought forward to the Mayor and City Council, it could be considered.
“I think that that process is going to move along – I don’t know how fast or how short – but we could discuss if that’s still active,” he said.
Commission Chair Joe Wilson also questioned if the Mayor and City Council would revisit some of the agenda items that were not discussed in prior meetings.
“I think this board’s been relatively consistent,” he said. “A, we’ve had the same members since the last meeting, and B, pretty much everyone’s been saying the same thing. So I think just revisit the agenda we had last time and try to get to some of the items we didn’t get to previously.”
Planner Bill Neville, however, said the plan for next month’s meeting was to focus on the comprehensive plan. But he said those agenda items could be incorporated into the discussion.
“What we know is there’s not enough time to cover a multitude of topics and give everyone a chance to participate …,” he said. “But I think the idea was that the timing was right to have these discussions in the context of what should go in the update to the comprehensive plan.”
Bendler agreed, saying, “We’ll revisit the agenda and make sure those points are developed in the conversation.”
Over the last year, town staff and members of the planning commission have been reviewing the town’s comprehensive plan as part of a 10-year update. Neville told the planning commission last week revisions are ongoing and would be presented to the council next month.
“We’re taking a step-by-step approach …,” he said. “This is the point in time where it’s helpful for the commissioners to come in and review that with us and help complete the remaining 10% so it’s ready to show off to the public and Mayor and City Council.”
Neville said the council would provide input on the draft comprehensive plan before it is finalized. From there, the document will go out for a formal public review.
Future of Armory site evaluated
Continued from Page 47
vations. But they let it sit. I believe that when you close a building, you have to have a plan for it. It seems that there never was a plan.”
Nock, 34, said when he was a young man growing up in Pocomoke, the Armory used to offer programs that reached young people, and the community center there was a big part of his life. While it’s too early to say for sure, something like that may be in its future, Nock said.
“We are tearing down a piece of our history, but it is also an opportunity to make new history, to make memories, to do something that’s going to benefit everyone,” he said.
Karah Lacey, economic development director for Pocomoke City, said very few people will walk from downtown and Market Street to the parallel Willow Street because it’s been deemed unsafe. She said in the future, there could be many familyfriendly possibilities for the property, which takes up about half a city block.
“It’ll change the whole trajectory of that area,” she said, “because right now everything is out on Market Street. There’s a beautiful view of the river there. It has the potential to be something amazing. It’s going to extend the downtown – make downtown Pocomoke more walkable, more alive.”
‘Big Three’ attend Yalta Conference
By Peter Ayers Wimbrow III Contributing Writer
(Jan. 31, 2025) This week, 80 years ago, “The Big Three” — Roosevelt, Churchill, Stalin — met for the second, and last, time at the Black Sea resort of Yalta on the Crimean Peninsula, which today has a population of 76,000.
The Red Army had only recovered the peninsula less than nine months earlier, and the three had only agreed to meet there on Dec. 27, 1944, leaving the Soviets little time to repair the ravages of war, and Axis occupation, and prepare for the three leaders and their staffs.
A mere two days after FDR’s fourth inauguration, on the evening of Jan. 22, 1945, the president and his daughter, Anna, boarded a train, to which his specially modified armored car, the Ferdinand Magellan, was attached, bound for Newport News, Virginia.
At 8:30 a.m., on Jan. 23, the heavy cruiser USS Quincy departed Newport News with the president and his
entourage, bound for Malta. The president and his entourage celebrated his 63rd birthday on Jan. 30, aboard ship. The Quincy arrived at Valetta Harbor, Malta, at midday on Feb. 2, 1945.
The British prime minister had flown in several days earlier, but the 70-year-old Churchill had been bedridden aboard the light cruiser HMS Orion since his arrival, with a 102-degree temperature.
By the time of the president’s arrival, the PM had recovered sufficiently to join the president for lunch aboard the Quincy. Other than lunch and a quick tour of the island, the two spent no more time together, as the president did not want Stalin to think that the two English speakers were ganging up on him. He also was not interested in furthering Churchill’s goal of preserving the British Empire.
At 10:30 p.m., the British and American delegations, numbering 700 in all, began departing by plane for the Crimea. The president’s plane, the Sacred Cow, which was specially equipped with an elevator, departed Luqa Airport on Malta at 3:30 a.m. on Feb. 3, bound for the Crimea. As Churchill had said in his January 1 cable to the president, “No more let
us falter! From Malta to Yalta! Let nobody alter!”
The Sacred Cow landed at Saki at 12:10 p.m., local time, where it was met by the PM and Soviet Foreign Minister Vyacheslav Molotov. The Soviets had prepared a repast for the weary travelers. But the Americans passed, and a little after 1 p.m. began the six-hour — at 20 mph — trip to Yalta in Lend-Lease Packards. The route was lined with Soviet soldiers every 50 feet.
The Soviets housed the president in Livadia Palace, five miles outside the city, overlooking the Black Sea, where he was provided with a threeroom suite — with a private bathroom! The last Tsar, Nicholas II, built Livadia Palace in 1911, which would also be the site of the meetings among the three, for, as Stalin suggested, “... the convenience of the President.”
Also, housed in Livadia Palace were the president’s daughter, Anna; Admirals Earnest T. King and William Leahy; Generals George C. Marshall and Edwin M. (“PA”) Watson; presidential advisors Harry Hopkins and James K. Byrnes; and U.S. Ambassador to the U.S.S.R., W.
Continued on Page 54
vanishing vanishing OCEAN CITY
With Bunk Mann
Margaret and Willard Buell built the 50-room Mt. Pleasant Hotel on the Boardwalk just north of N. Division Street in 1900 and enlarged it to one hundred rooms in 1902. At the time it was – along with the Atlantic, the Plimhimmon, and the Hamilton – one of the most fashionable hotels in Ocean City.
The Mt. Pleasant operated on the American Plan where all meals were included for the length of one’s stay. Guests would get dressed up to enter the dining room; the idea of going to breakfast in a bathing suit was unheard of in that era.
The Buells sold their hotel in 1919 and it went through a series of owners over the next several years. A serious fire in 1923 caused it to be rebuilt with a totally new appearance including a second section. It became known as the New Mt. Pleasant until the name changed to the Roosevelt Hotel in the late 1930s.
The Roosevelt suffered two devastating fires in the early ‘70s; the second on January 10, 1973 completely destroyed the building.
To purchase one of Bunk Mann’s books, click over to www.vanishingoc.com. Postcard from Bunk Mann’s collection
Things I Like...
By Steve Green
Visiting college towns
Moving snow with my leaf blower
Just one good snowfall a winter
Equipment that does not rust
Working on a rainy day
Having off on a summer day
When karma reveals itself
A blue sky over a snow-covered field
Music from my teenager’s room
Looking through old photo albums
An unexpected Super Bowl matchup
Opinions
Immigration policies impact local economy
As Worcester County residents watch the federal government’s roundup of illegal immigrants, they might want to think about what needs to happen to protect the national and local businesses that are dependent on foreign workers.
Whether one approves or disapproves of the government’s new immigration policies, it remains that the building, lodging and restaurant industries have jobs they can’t fill without immigrants.
Over the last couple of decades, these industries, which are a huge part of this county’s economy, have struggled to entice young Americans to take low-level jobs with an eye on working their way up. As a result, they turned to immigrants to fill these billets. Many, or almost all, are in the country legally, but some undoubtedly are not.
Consequently, these businesses need a way to get the workers they need so they don’t run afoul of the federal government, don’t go broke because of higher payroll costs, or fail to meet customers’ expectations because of staff shortages.
The National Association of Home Builders, the National Association of Realtors, and restaurant groups are calling for immigration reform measures that secure the country’s borders, but also encourage legal immigration and finding a way to retain the resident but undocumented workers who have been here for years.
One thing that would help would be lifting the cap on H2B visas, which allow residents of other countries to work here temporarily.
But as the home builders association argues, even though Congress has repeatedly increased the number of available visas, they may satisfy only half of the demand for H-2B workers.
Getting tough on immigration is one thing, but it must be done with an eye on finding a way to protect enterprises that depend on immigrants to take jobs they can’t otherwise fill.
Go, not Kansas City!
I’m done with football until next fall. I’ve given up since the teams I had rooted for in the playoffs did play off — as in played themselves right off the field.
NEWS
EDITOR STEWART DOBSON; EXECUTIVE EDITOR STEVE GREEN
OC Today-Dispatch is published Fridays by FLAG Publications, Inc. 11934 Ocean Gateway, Suite 6, Ocean City, Md. 21842 410-723-6397 All content copyright 2025
By Stewart Dobson
That being the case, I don’t care who wins the Super Bowl, as long as it’s not Kansas City.
It isn’t that I have something against Kansas City or that I’m an Eagles fan, because I’m not.
I have no opinion of Philadelphia, except I imagine the stadium food is pretty good.
The fact is, my second favorite team is the New York Giants, who distinguished themselves this year by finishing dead last in the National Football Conference.
So now you’re wondering, “Hmmm, if the Giants are his second favorite team, who’s first?”
I’m glad you asked, because once this season is over, I’m issuing a Request for Proposals to all teams in the NFL to see who wants my fair-weather support, that having been rescinded from the most recent title holder whose name shall go unmentioned.
The thing is, I am a decidedly fair-weather follower of sports teams, especially during televised games. When the Ravens lost to Kansas City at the beginning of the season, for instance, I tuned out in the 3rd quarter because Baltimore was down by 10.
I’m not sure what I switched to, maybe “Scrapbooking with Nancy” or C-SPAN because they were equally exciting. But I did go elsewhere since I had no desire to watch the Ravens not play well.
Real fans would retort, of course, “But Baltimore almost won with an exciting comeback attempt in the fourth.”
Yeah, well, that’s like saying I almost didn’t get food poisoning, but it sure was exciting for a while.
The way I see it, a loss is a loss and if a team isn’t playing its best, I’m moving on. I see no point in prolonging the disappointment when I can get right to it and be disappointed immediately.
Besides, I’ve seen quite enough of Kansas quarterback Patrick Mahomes, who is everywhere because of all his endorsement deals.
Seriously, I think he has so many endorsements lined up — beer, insurance, shoes, sandwiches, phone companies and menswear — that other players don’t have many options.
“Hi, I’m Jed Lumpkin, practice squad punter and backup water bottle squeezer for the Giants. Do you suffer from pinworms? I’m here to tell you about Pete’s Pinworm Repudiater and Memory Loss Formula.”
Mahomes, meanwhile, has so many product endorsements wrapped up, that if Kansas City wins next week, he’ll get even more.
“Hi, Patrick Mahomes, here. If you almost didn’t get food poisoning, try Dad’s Day-Old Chicken. It’s more exciting than the game itself.”
Between the Lines
By Steve Green
The “all news is local” saying was applicable on a few fronts recently. It was interesting to see Sheriff Matt Crisafulli and County Commissioner Caryn Abbott opine on national developments and their local impact. While I support everyone’s right to express their opinions, it’s odd for these officials to feel it’s imperative to outline positions on national developments. In both cases, Crisafulli and Abbott were jeered for their posts by some while others cheered. Additionally, although a different matter, Worcester County Public Schools communicated with parents mid-week about the national illegal immigration crackdown’s potential impact on local students. The communication was a surprise to many parents who find it unlikely national immigration enforcement actions will ever come to Worcester County schools. Here’s a recap of the recent situations.
— First came Crisafulli’s post on his Facebook page weighing in on President Trump’s pardon of individuals involved in the Jan. 6, 2021 incident at the Capitol following Trump’s loss to Biden in 2020. Crisafulli, a Republican, took to social media to criticize Trump for pardoning those who were violent on this day. Hundreds of comments – including many from conservative critics — were made on the post and on Jan. 23 Crisafulli posted, “for clarity… I am referencing the violent attacks, as I indicated. I am not pooling all ‘protesters’ together. I am speaking of the ones who broke into the building and used violence. Those who assaulted and maimed others. The violent events of January 6th, 2021 were a dark day in our nation’s history. Those responsible for storming the Capitol, attacking law enforcement, and undermining our constitutional republic should be held accountable, not pardoned.”
On Monday, Crisafulli, through his Facebook page, addressed Trump’s immigration position. “In response to numerous public inquiries regarding these policies, I want to affirm that the Worcester County Sheriff’s Office is committed to upholding the law.
Our office will fully cooperate with federal immigration authorities to enforce U.S. immigration laws,” Crisafulli said.
— Next came Abbott, a Republican representing District 1 in the south end of the county, who last week showed support for the U.S. Department of Education’s statement it, “has taken action to eliminate harmful Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives … as the Department works to end discrimination based on race and the use of harmful race stereotypes.” Abbott shared the national department’s press release on her personal Facebook page, saying “This is great news, ending DEI in all schools. Prayer answered.” Abbott’s post was subsequently shared to the Worcester United group page by member Beau Williams, who wrote, “Is this what it means to be a citizen in Worcester County? If prayers are being answered to eliminate equity and inclusion, it makes you wonder—what else is being prayed for? Shouldn’t we be striving for opportunities and support for ALL instead?” Abbott, who has called the group “Worcester Divided,” was subsequently bashed by group members for her position.
— On Wednesday night, parents in Worcester County public schools received a communication about the national crackdown on illegal immigrants. The text message read in part, “WCPS families, last week the Dept. of Homeland Security issued a directive allowing immigration enforcement actions to occur in sensitive areas, including schools and bus stops. Please visit our website … for how we are supporting our students and their families.”
The web page says, “Worcester County Public Schools remains committed to fostering safe and welcoming learning environments for every child in our care, regardless of immigration status … While WCPS hopes that our learning environments do not experience disruption as a result of this action, school administrators have been provided with instruction on what actions to take should a representative from a State or Federal agency arrives unexpectedly at one of our schools.”
The page continues, “When visitors arrive at the school, the school principal or assistant principal will greet them and ask them to join them in an office or conference area and seek to learn the reason for the visit. At that time, the school administrator will contact the designated leadership contact at the Worcester County Board of Education for further guidance. Families will be contacted in the event of such an inquiry or occurrence.”
The web page also contained some educational information for parents about federal law stipulating all children, even non-citizens, “are entitled to a K-12 education, including college counseling services.” It was also stated “schools are prohibited, without parental consent, from providing information from a student’s file to federal immigration agents unless they have a subpoena.”
The county school system’s website contains a number of resources for families as does the State Department of Education’s website.
Who will take over for lost workers once deported
Editor,
People complained about the cost of goods when President Biden was in office. So what’s going to happen now?
There’s going to be a shortage of poultry workers, domestic staff (with over 5,000 rooms in Ocean City alone), lawn care, roofers, migrant workers, produce pickers, seafood industry, construction, fast food, and the list goes on and on.
I’ll ask my children if they are interested in one of these jobs. Chances are they’re not. So who’s going to fill them?
Supposedly the Hispanics are taking over our work.
Good luck with your family budget now.
Judy Davis Ocean City
State bills worth following in General Assembly
Editor,
It’s that time of year again - the Maryland General Assembly is in session and bills are being filed by the dozens.
There are a few that are of particular interest to us here on the Lower Shore.
First and foremost is Fairness in Girls’ Sports HB156) sponsored by many Republican members of the General Assembly. The name of the
legislation speaks for itself, of course, but basically it will give schools the right to designate certain sports as female only and will protect the institutions from retaliation for taking these actions. Please let your legislators know your thoughts on this bill.
A bill of concern is HB0093/ SB0234-Housing and Community Development - Homeless Shelter Certification Program-Establishment. This legislation would establish a new program in the Dept. of Housing and Community Development and would require the Dept. to develop certain operational and building standards for homeless shelters and minimum standards for the protection of the rights of the shelter residents and would require the operator of a shelter to participate in a Homeless Management Information System.
As with most legislation, this would appear on the surface to be rather harmless and even beneficial. After all, the government is “here to help”. I have volunteered at the Ocean City Cold Weather Shelter for several years and in my opinion, this legislation is not only not needed, it could definitely interfere with the goals of the churches and nonprofits that operate the shelters. There may be some homeless shelters that would benefit from government oversight, but there is no need to create a whole new government program and subject all homeless shelters to government control. Frankly, the very idea is scary.
Continued on Page 55
WORLD WAR II
Averell Harriman II.
The PM and the British delegation were housed in the Vorontsov Palace in the 1,000-year-old Black Sea resort village of Alupka, which is located 11 miles west of Yalta. The palace was built by Field Marshal Prince Mikhail Semyonovich Vorontsov, who had fought against Napoleon in the Battles of Friedland, Borodino, and Leipzig.
In the two weeks before the delegations’ arrival, 1,000 Soviet workers had restored 45 rooms and replanted the palace gardens. Not only had the Soviets exerted Herculean efforts to provide habitable accommodations to their guests, they also stripped the National and Metropol hotels in Moscow of their staffs to make them comfortable.
Stalin stayed at the Yusupov Palace, in the village of Koreiz, outside of Yalta. It was built in 1909 for Prince Felix Yusupov, who led the assassination of the monk Rasputin.
The Soviet leader had traveled the 1,000 miles from Moscow to Simferopol, Crimea, in an 11-car armored train. Stalin’s three-day journey in one of the late Tzar’s personal cars was far more comfortable than that of the ordinary train traveler in the Soviet Union! Following his arrival at Simferopol, he followed the same laborious route as the other two lead-
ers.
The conference officially began at 5 p.m. on Feb. 4, 1945. Although Stalin was the host, he graciously ceded the chairmanship of the conference to the president, as he had at Tehran.
The meetings of the three leaders were held in the Grand Ballroom of Livadia Palace, where they gathered at a large round table. To the right of each leader sat their respective foreign affairs chiefs — Molotov, Sir Anthony Eden ( great-great-grandson of Sir Robert Eden, the last colonial governor of Maryland), and Secretary of State Edward R. Stettinius Jr., who had only held that position since December 1, 1944. To the left of each leader sat their personal translators. Behind these men sat their respective entourages.
In addition to the defeat of the remaining Axis countries, each leader had his own goals. Churchill’s was, first, to preserve the Empire, and secondarily, to secure democratic governments in the countries of central and eastern Europe that were being liberated by the Red Army.
FDR wanted the Soviet Union’s participation in the United Nations and its help in the war against the Japanese Empire, which Stalin had promised at the Tehran Conference. Stalin merely wanted the spoils of the Continued on Page 55
Red Army’s victories.
Everyone got what they wanted, except Churchill. Even he conceded, in his Nobel winning “Memoirs,” that he achieved as much as was possible. Other issues that were discussed, and upon which agreements were obtained, were the participation of France; the occupation of Germany; reparations to be paid by Germany for the damage done to the U.S.S.R. by the Wehrmacht; trials for those accused of war crimes; the future of Poland’s government; the treatment and repatriation of POW’s; communication, coordination and demarcation between the Allied armies and the Red Army.
When the conference ended on Feb. 11, 1945, the president flew back to Malta in the Sacred Cow, where he transferred to the Quincy and sailed to Egypt. There he met with Kings Farouk and Ibn Saud of Egypt and Saudi Arabia and Emperor Haile Selassie of Ethiopia.
When he met with King Saud, he attempted to discuss Jewish immigration to Palestine, but got nowhere with His Highness. The PM flew to Athens, where he addressed a crowd of 50,000, and then flew to Egypt, where he met with the president for the last time.
The Quincy arrived at Newport News, on Feb. 27, 1945, but without Presidential confidants Hopkins and Watson. Both had been in poor health for some time. Hopkins felt too ill to make the trans-Atlantic passage and remained in Marrakesh to rest, and then fly home. Immediately upon arrival in the U.S., he was taken to the Mayo Clinic. Gen. Watson died on the voyage.
On March 1, 1945, the president reported on his trip in an address to a Joint Session of Congress, which was broadcast to the nation on radio. No longer strong enough to walk the few steps to the podium, he traveled down the center aisle of the House in his wheelchair and addressed the Joint Session while seated at a table.
Some, on the far right, criticize the President for the results of the Yalta Conference, even today. They say that his deteriorating health caused him to weaken before Stalin and concede Eastern Europe to the Communists. However, those that were at the conference don’t concur. They present a picture of the president who knew what was achievable, given the situation on the ground, and who, although thinner, still maintained a sharp mind and shrewd political skills.
Conversely, the president’s critics refused, and continue to refuse, to acknowledge basic facts, i.e., the presence of the Red Army — the most powerful army in the world — in Eastern Europe, and that the Western Allies were not going to fight another war with the U.S.S.R. over the types of governments those countries should have - all of which, except
Poland, had been allied with Germany, e.g., Rumania, Hungary, Bulgaria, Croatia, Slovakia.
And, it was from Poland that Napoleon I had launched his invasion of Russia, and Hitler had launched his invasion of the U.S.S.R. It was also through Poland that the German Empire had attacked Russia during WWI. After WWI Poland had also attacked the fledgling Soviet Union.
The president did achieve his two primary goals, i.e., the creation of the United Nations, with the participation of the U.S.S.R., and the help of the Red Army in subjugating Japan, which his military advisors had told him was crucial. At the time, no one knew if the atom bomb was going to be finished in time, and, if it was, its power.
As Stalin promised, exactly three months after Field Marshal Wilhelm Keitel executed the surrender docu-
ments on behalf of Germany, on May 8, 1945, the Red Army launched a massive assault on Japanese-occupied Manchuria on Aug. 8, 1945.
Make no mistake — the entry into the war by the U.S.S.R. was a significant factor in the surrender of the Japanese. They did not want the death and destruction visited upon their country, which the Red Army visited upon eastern Germany.
Better to surrender to the occupation by the nice Americans, than the rape of their country — and their women — by the Red Army!
Next Month: Mandalay
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
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Finally, our very own Senator Mary Beth Carozza has sponsored legislation concerning setting standards for evaluators in child custody dispute cases (SB0025) which would make sure that those who have the power and responsibility to evaluate who should get custody in child abuse cases are qualified to do so. I hope readers will take the time to familiarize themselves with these important pieces of proposed legislation and to take appropriate action. The text and status of the bills and the contact information for Senators and Delegates is at mgaleg.maryland.gov.
Carol Frazier Ocean Pines
KAYRELL JEAN WILKERSON
Ocean City
Kayrell Jean Wilkerson passed away peacefully in her sleep on Jan. 20, 2025. Kayrell was 90 years old. She was born Kayrell Jean Marks on Jan. 29, 1934, in Grafton, W.Va.
She was married to Medford Robert Wilkerson of Ocean City for 58 years, and they had three children, Sandy Semke of Wilmington, Del., Donna Mae Wilkerson of Ocean City and Timothy Allen Wilkerson (deceased); five grandchildren, Eric Allen Semke, Michelle Ann Semke, Katlin Thatcher (Katlin), J.V. Gutridge (John Vincent) and Reed Brenner Wilkerson; and five greatgrandchildren, Emory Semke, Edan Semke, Tanner Thatcher, Logan Gregory and Caroline Gregory.
As a young woman, along with her husband, Robert “Capt Bob” Wilkerson of Ocean City, they founded the Delaware Barber School where they taught hundreds of men and women the trade until eventually moving the entire family to Ocean City where they opened Capt. Bob’s Steak and Seafood House, a staple of the Ocean City landscape for over 40 years.
Kayrell lost her husband Bob in 2013 after a long illness. She cared for him personally for several years before his death. Kayrell continued to own and operate the steak and seafood restaurant until 2004 when she sold the business and bought the
Colonel Arms, a small cozy motel in the heart of Ocean City. She sold the motel and retired to Berlin in 2018. Kayrell Wilkerson had the strongest work ethic of any person I’ve ever known. She was a strong, capable woman who loved her friends and family, and provided for her family her entire life. She was smart, had a wonderful sense of humor, admired and appreciated hard work, and lived a full life. She will be missed by her family, and especially by Wayne and Beth Wilkerson, family who’ve been there for Kayrell over these many years. This poem is a reminder that she is not really gone. Kayrell will live on forever in the hearts of those who loved her.
She’s in the sun, the wind, the rain, she’s in the air you breathe with every breath you take. She sings a song of hope and cheer, there’s no more pain, no more fear. You’ll see her in the clouds above, hear her whisper words of love, you’ll be together before long, until then, listen for her song.
ETHELEE HEWITT NALLS
Bishopville
Ethelee Hewitt Nalls, 81, of Bishopville, died at her home on Jan. 23, 2025.
Ethelee was born on March 28, 1943 in Washington, D.C. to John (Jack) Procter Hewitt and Frances Aurelia Godfrey Hewitt. Ethelee was
raised in Silver Spring, Md. and attended school at Penn Hall Preparatory School in Chambersburg, Pa. where she graduated in 1960. She also attended Penn Hall Junior College where she graduated first in her class in 1963. She began her career as a legal assistant and later, a realtor alongside her father.
She married Michael Adrian Nalls Sr. on July 20, 1963 and had two sons, Michael Adrian Jr. (1964) and John Procter (1965). Her husband Michael Adrian Sr. preceded her in death on June 19, 1965. Ethelee married Vincent Paul Ahearn on March 24, 1984. Vince also preceded in death on October 17, 1995. Later in her life, Ethelee moved to Ocean City where she spent many years sunbathing and attending Catholic mass daily.
Ethelee was preceded in death by her parents, Jack and Aurelia, her husband Michael Adrian Nalls Sr., her husband Vincent Ahearn, and her son John Procter Nalls. She is survived by her son Michael Adrian Nalls Jr., and her grandchildren Tucker Hewitt, Natalee Frances, and Ellee Johanna.
At Ethelee’s request, there will not be any services. Memorial donations can be made to the charity of your choice in her name. She will be buried next to her husband Michael Adrian Nalls at Arlington National Cemetery.
Letters of condolence can be sent to the family via www.burbagefuneralhome.com. Arrangements are in care of The Burbage Funeral Home, Berlin.
JOHN F. SOLOVEY JR.
West Palm Beach
John F. Solovey, Jr., a proud Marine and devoted family man, passed away on Jan. 6, 2025, at the VA Medical Center in West Palm Beach, Fla.
Born on September 17, 1948, in Port Chester, N.Y., he was the son of the late John Solovey and Violet Ruth Drought Solovey Wolfe. John’s life journey took him to many places he
called home, including New York, Pennsylvania, Ocean Pines and most recently Palm Beach Gardens, Fla. He is survived by his loving wife of 54 years, Leesa Solovey; his children, Elizabeth Steedman and her husband Trevor and John Solovey and his wife Toby; and his cherished grandchildren, Kai Steedman and Devin Apple. He also leaves behind his siblings, Garrick Solovey and his wife Nancy and Deborah Gibbs and her husband Paul. John was preceded in death by his sister, Cheryl Bury, and nephews James Hunsburger and Chris DiNatale. He was deeply loved by numerous nieces, nephews, and their families.
A Vietnam War veteran who served honorably as a Marine, John carried his deep patriotism throughout his life. Following his service to his country, he retired from Caterpillar Tractor in York, Pa., before continuing his career with Bennington Ceramic Tile Solutions in Selbyville, Del. John found joy in life’s simple pleasures, spending time with family and animals brought him immense happiness. He especially loved his dogs Angus and Ike and enjoyed fishing, boating, baseball games, seafood boils, Carvel ice cream treats, and popcorn. A passionate animal lover alongside his family, John fostered animals through A Second Chance Puppies and Kittens Rescue. Though gruff at times, John’s warm heart left an enduring impression on those who knew him.
His memory will be forever treasured by the lives he touched. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to A Second Chance Puppies and Kittens Rescue at asecondchancerescue.org. May his legacy of love and service continue to inspire all who mourn him.
Berlin
Bishop Ronald Howard Soulsman, beloved husband, father, grandfa-
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RONALD HOWARD SOULSMAN
John Solovey Jr
Ethelee Nalls
Showell Vol. Fire Department
ANNUAL OYSTER ROAST
Annual Spring Sportsman’s Bash
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ther, brother and friend, passed away peacefully, surrounded by family, on Jan. 25, 2025 at TidalHealth Regional Hospital in Salisbury.
He was born in Baltimore on Feb. 15, 1943. He was preceded in death by his parents, Albert Fairbank Soulsman and the late Maye Spurry Soulsman, of St. Michaels. He is survived by his wife Nancy Wolff Soulsman; children Brad Soulsman (Pam) and Becky Lynch (Doug); grandchildren Madison Soulsman, Brooke Lynch Morris, Morgan Soulsman and Adam Lynch; and a brother Dudley Soulsman (Renee).
Rev. Soulsman was raised in St. Michaels but proudly left to serve his country in the U.S. Navy from 19611967. He was on crew of the North Atlantic Sub Hunter Patrol Squadron 44.
Rev. Soulsman was an Ordained Bishop in the Church of God, Cleveland, TN. He served for many years on various boards and committees for the DelMarVa DC Church of God. Special to his heart were the years he served on the Ministerial Training Board, training new ministers for service to Christ.
He founded the Berlin-Ocean City (Lighthouse) Church of God in 1984
where he also served as the Administrator of the Eastern Shore Christian Academy for many years. He served the community as a Police and Hospital Chaplain and also gave leadership to the Berlin Ministerial Association for many years. Pastor Ron retired from full time pastoring in 2012, after serving as Senior Pastor at Lighthouse for 28+ years.
Pastor Ron was an avid bird watcher, and he loved hunting white tail and mule deer, elk and waterfowl. He especially loved hunting with his son, Brad, and grandson Adam. Also high on his list of favorite pastimes was campinglocally and also around the country.
Funeral services in celebration of his life will be held on Saturday, Feb. 8 at 2 p.m. at the Coastal Community Church, 10900 Ocean Gateway, Berlin, Md. A visitation will be held at the Burbage Funeral Home Friday, Feb. 7 from 6-8 p.m. Interment will be at the convenience of the family. Pastor Theo Hobbs will officiate. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in memory of Pastor Ron to Lighthouse Church of God, 11742 Sinepuxent Road, Berlin, MD 21811. Your memories and condolences can be sent to the family via www.burbagefuneralhome.com.
GREGORY J. SEXTON
Berlin
Gregory J. Sexton, age 89, passed away on Monday, Jan. 27, 2025, at
R. Soulsman
his home in Berlin. Born in Camden, N.J., he was the son of the late Francis Obold Sexton and Mary Pauline (Weinheiner) Sexton.
He is survived by his wife, Delores (Candy) Sexton; son, Eric Sexton (Terri); and grandchildren, Mary Evans, Catie Pusey, and Molly Evans.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his daughter, Victoria Sexton Hanks; brother, John Paul Sexton; sisters, Joan Bronson and Mary Frances Port; and a granddaughter, Danielle Valltos.
He devoted his career to the insurance industry and was active in the Washington, D.C, Maryland, and Virginia areas. His love of hunting and fishing often took him to far away countries. But he was never far from the Washington area – as his lifetime loyalty to the Washington Redskins kept him close to home. He recently moved to the Eastern Shore to be near his son and family.
Cremation followed his death. Letters of condolence can be sent to the family via www.burbagefuneralhome.com. Arrangements are in the care of The Burbage Funeral Home.
RICHARD JAMES THOMAS Fenwick Island
Richard (Richie) James Thomas, 51, passed away from natural causes on Dec. 5, 2024, at his home in Fenwick Island, DE.
Rich was preceded in death by his maternal and paternal grandparents and stepmother. He is survived by his wife Robyn Ferdinand; mother Judi Ann Keller (Peter); father Richard E. Thomas; sisters Kimberly Ann Deely (John) and Andrea Carol Cullen (Gerry); and stepbrother Peter.
There will be a Memorial Mass for Richie on Feb. 15, 2024, at St. Luke Catholic Church on 100th Street in Ocean City, Maryland at noon. A Celebration of Life will follow immediately after Mass at the Knights of Columbus located directly behind the church.
DALE FOREST COONEY Ocean Pines
Dale Forest Cooney, a cherished husband, father and community member, passed away peacefully on January 20, 2025, in Ocean Pines at the age of 88.
Born on Nov. 9, 1936, in Harrisburg, Pa., Dale led a life characterized by dedication, perseverance, and a commitment to serving others. After finishing his service in the United States Army, Dale embarked on a remarkable career at the Government Printing Office, moving his family to the Washington, D.C. area. During his over thirty years there, he became a staunch advocate for workers’ rights through his work as a Typographical Union Representative, earning the respect and gratitude of his colleagues.
Dale’s work ethic was paralleled by his deep commitment to his family. Alongside his beloved wife, Laura, whom he married post-military service, Dale settled in Bowie, where to-
gether they nurtured a loving home for their three children. Following his retirement, Dale and Laura relocated to Ocean Pines. Their summers were spent working at the Ocean City inlet parking lot, where they made lasting friendships and remained active community members for 17 years.
Known for his outgoing personality and infectious sense of humor, Dale was a source of joy to everyone he encountered. In all aspects of life, he was meticulous, his attention to detail best exemplified by the care he took with his appearance; his hair was always perfectly combed.
Dale’s legacy continues through the love of his family. He is survived by Laura, his devoted wife; his sons, John and Mark; and his daughter, Vicki Hulbert. His spirit lives on in the lives he touched and the memories he created—a testament to a life well-lived and deeply cherished.
Born in Media, Pa. on March 26, 1973. Richie was raised in Wilmington, Del,, graduated from Brandywine High School and then attended the Culinary School of Philadelphia. After graduation, he worked as a chef at some of the finest restaurants in and around Wilmington, Delaware. Later, he opened Pirate BBQ in Wilmington, Delaware and proudly co-ran it for three years. He moved to Fenwick Island, Delaware in 2016 and worked in the restaurant business until 2019. He then went to work with Robyn Ferdinand in her cleaning business and they later became business partners. The couple wed on September 21, 2024.
Richie loved his family, extended family and wonderful friends. Sunrises, sunsets, bonfires, the garden, pond, boat rides and laughter were among some of his favorite things.
Squad’s 10-game winning streak snapped before rout of Pocomoke on Monday
By Bruce C. Walls Contributing Writer
(Jan. 31, 2025) Last Saturday Cardozo High School ended Stephen Decatur’s 10-game winning streak with a 68-60 victory.
After the game, Coach BJ Johnson said, “We competed, they are a very good team, we needed that.”
The first quarter against Cardozo
was an exciting back and forth with several lead changes and ended in 1919 tie. In the second quarter, both teams showed strong defenses but the Seahawks couldn’t sink as many baskets making 12 to Cardozo’s 19. Still a tight game at the half with the score 38-31 in favor of Cardozo of Washington, DC.
In the third quarter, Cardozo continued to inch away from Stephen Decatur, scoring 17 to the Seahawks’s 13. Decatur charged out in the fourth, outscoring Cardozo 16 to 13 but just not enough to take the win.
Seahawks battle but unable to deliver Wi-Hi’s first loss
Senior Swift: “I think we’re going to do much better next time we play them’
By Bruce C. Walls
Contributing Writer
(Jan. 31, 2025) In the history book of Maryland high school sports there is a long chapter on the basketball revelry between Wi Hi and Stephen Decatur Seahawks.
Last Saturday afternoon a new chapter was written as the Seahawks lost by 11 points to their Salisbury rival Indians.
Wicomico is 11-2 on the year and sits in first place in the Bayside with
a 9-0 record. The Seahawks are 10-3 on the season (6-3 in the Bayside and good enough for third place).
“I thought we put up a great fight,” said senior guard Allison Swift. “I mean we are kind of a young team. We have a lot of learning to do, but I’m proud of what we did today. We play Wi Hi again and I think we’re going to do much better next time we play them.”
The Saturday, Jan. 25 matchup was a tight, hard-fought game against two titans. Wi-Hi poured it on in the first quarter with 21 while the Seahawks scored 14. The second quarter saw the Seahawks score 17 against the See DECATUR Page 61
Jonathan Purnell scored in the first and fourth quarter. After the game, the promising sophomore said, “I think I did okay today. I just need to make a lot more shots than I did today. I needed not to rush my shots. Being calmer and not to feel the pressure but to just embrace everything.”
In the game, Stephen Decatur made just 54% of its free throws.
Senior Davin Chandler was the high scorer with 26 points, including three from deep and nine out of 13 free throws. Coming in with another solid game was senior transfer Noah
Tucker, who scored 20 points.
“Our kids never quit,” Coach Johnson said. “We were down and fell back and came back and I’m happy with that. We just have to shoot better together as a team. If we fix that, we have a chance to win”.
On Monday, Decatur got right with an 80-63 win over Pocomoke. Decatur’s record stands at 12-3 on the season and in first place in the Bayside South with a 9-0 record.
Decatur next takes on Crisfield on Feb. 3 at home followed by an away contest with Wicomico High.
PHOTO COURTESY SUSAN TAYLOR-WALLS Malasia Tucker is pictured driving to the hoop to convert for Decatur in last Saturday’s loss to WiHi at home.
PHOTO COURTESY SUSAN TAYLOR-WALLS
Senior Noah Tucker, pictured driving to the basket, scored 20 points for the Seahawks.
PHOTO COURTESY SUSAN TAYLOR-WALLS
Senior guard Davin Chandler pumped in 26 points in last Saturday’s loss to Cardozo High of Washington DC.
WPS AWARDS PRESENTED
Decatur rebounds with easy win over Pocomoke, 69-28
Indians’ 15, resulting in Decatur trailing 36-31.
The even battle continued in the third quarter with Decatur scoring 10 and Wi-Hi putting up 12 points in the. Wi-Hi took control of the game in the fourth, outscoring Decatur 1511, bringing the final score to 63-52.
The two high scores for Decatur were Maleah Blake with 17 points (one three-pointer and seven baskets), and Allison Swift with 15 points (three pointers, two buckets and tw0 free throws).
Coach Corey Holland said overall Decatur played well and is looking forward to the conference grind coming up.
“I thought we did okay today,” said Holland.
“Defensively we let up, too many mental mistakes, we didn’t do some of the things that we needed to do, and they were able to take advantage of it. That’s a great team. I thought the girls did an outstanding job. Our offense was doing some little things, but it just wasn’t enough. Ready to get to the meat and potatoes again, of the conference schedule, so hopefully we’ll pick some things up and we’ll get ready to go.”
On Monday night, the Seahawks played against Pocomoke and won by a 69-28 score. On Friday, the Seahawks host Washington High School at 5 p.m.
PHOTO COURTESY SUSAN TAYLOR-WALLS
Senior Allison Swift, who scored 15 in the game, maneuvers inside for a first half basket.
SUBMITTED PHOTOS/OC TODAY-DISPATCH
Worcester Preparatory School recently held its winter middle school awards banquet. Above left, front, seventh grade boys winners were MVP CJ Labin, Most Improved Ronit Poddar and Coach’s Award Cullen Giardina; and standing from left, eighth grade award winners Most Improved Brax Giardina, MVP John Parker and Coach’s Award Reed Grinestaff. Above middle, middle school cheerleading winners include Most Improved Abby Ferguson, MVP Addy Wisniewski and Coach’s Award Ava Holland. Above right, girls basketball team trophy winners are pictured. Seated, from left, are seventh graders Most Improved Sadie Kremer, MVP Vivi Grinestaff and Coach’s Award Haley Hanna; and standing, from left, eighth graders MVP Kylee Hutton, Coach’s Award Mariella Anthony and Most Improved Madison Andrews.
