02/28/2025 OC Today-Dispatch

FEBRUARY 28, 2025

Mailloux pleads guilty in hit-and-run

Takes deal during motions hearing in Worcester court

Bethany Hooper

Associate Editor

(Feb. 28, 2025) The motorist charged in the 2022 death of Gavin Knupp entered a guilty plea this week to one felony count.

During a motions hearing held in Worcester County Circuit Court Tuesday, a plea deal

was reached between the state’s attorney’s office and Tyler Mailloux, 24, the Berlin man charged in the 2022 death of 14-year-old Knupp.

Mailloux pleaded guilty to leaving the scene of an accident

where a driver “knew/reasonably knew accident must result in death and death occurred,” according to the Maryland Transportation Code.

Sentencing was deferred to

After months of work led to their December announcement of an intent to merge, the two hospital systems serving this area are pushing toward a May 1 deadline to make it happen. — PAGE 53

City Council wants to clean up obscene merchandise on display at the Boardwalk — PAGE 3

BRIAN SHANE/ OC TODAY-DISPATCH One of the tamer shirts on display.

BRIAN SHANE/OC TODAY-DISPATCH

Though most of the Boardwalk stores were closed this week, outdoor displays advertising merchandise available for sale were posted in front of at least one business.

Council looking to regulate obscene Boardwalk content

By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor

(Feb. 28, 2025) In an effort to clean up the Boardwalk, city officials this week directed staff to develop an ordinance to shield minors from obscene, vulgar, sexually explicit and profane merchandise and displays found along the storefronts.

On Tuesday, the Ocean City Council voted to advance a proposed ordinance aimed at protecting minors from what is viewed as obscene and vulgar materials that are displayed on the Boardwalk.

City Solicitor Heather Stansbury said the legislation’s goal is to restrict such displays while protecting a business owner’s First Amendment rights. For decades, Ocean City has struggled with retail stores displaying inappropriate T-shirts along the Boardwalk. Casual efforts have been made to encourage the store operators to push the vulgar apparel off the boards with varying, short-term success.

“What we’re trying to do is walk this very fine line of honoring and respecting a business, a merchant’s right to run their business and exercise free speech, while protecting our most vulnerable residents and visitors, which are the children …,” she said. “We’re trying to strike that balance, and what we’re proposing we think does strike that balance.”

Stansbury said that for years, the city has received complaints of obscene or vulgar merchant displays along the Boardwalk. She also held up a packet of what she estimated to be more than 100 emails the city had

collected on the topic over the last couple of years.

“I know the mayor’s been contacted. I know many of you have contacted me, I know the city manager has been contacted,” she said. “And it seems as though every summer you are getting a barrage of complaints from residents and visitors offended by the type of merchandise that can be viewed primarily from the Boardwalk.”

Stansbury said examples of this merchandise included T-shirts depicting certain sexual acts and Tshirts with sayings such as “I heart DILFS” and “Don’t be a salty [expletive deleted].” She also included pictures of those items displayed outdoors.

“All of these are merchandise that can be viewed without entering the premises,” she said.

To that end, staff worked with the city solicitor to review the city code and charter, which acknowledges that the Mayor and City Council can police obscenity or public profanity, as well as prohibit any outdoor display that promotes alcohol, cannabis, illegal drugs, tobacco, weapons, offensive adult materials and obscenity, to name a few.

BREAKFAST

Mon-Fri 9-11am Sat-Sun 8am-Noon

Monday-Friday Drinks Noon-6pm Food 3-6pm

HHHLIVE ENTERTAINMENTHHH MINGO MONDAY, TRIVIA TUESDAY & BAR BINGO THURSDAY 6PM

KEVIN POOLE SUN., 3/2 • 2PM

JASON LEE FRI., 2/28 • 5PM TRUE COUNTRY WED., 3/5 • 5PM

FRIDAY: BURLEY OAK BATTERED ROCKFISH w/ Fries & Slaw $25 BAYSIDE COMBO Fried Shrimp, Clams & Fish w/ Fries & Slaw $25

TUESDAY: CRABCAKE COMBOS Smoked Brisket or 1/2 Rack of Ribs w/ a 5 oz. Classic Crabcake and Two Sides $25

WEDNESDAY: TWO SINGLE CHESAPEAKE CRABCAKE DINNERS w/ Hand-Cut Fries, Slaw & Beignets 5 oz. $30

“Obscenity is not protected speech,” she said. “The Supreme Court’s been very clear about that. It is difficult sometimes to discern what obscenity is, but it does have to appeal to the common decency and the culture of the community. I think those emails, coupled with what I’m sure will be a

SUNDAY: TWO SINGLE CHESAPEAKE CRABCAKE DINNERS w/ Hand-Cut Fries, Slaw & Beignets 5 oz. $30

MONDAY: PHILLY CHEESESTEAK w/ Fries $12.50

THURSDAY: PRIME RIB and Two Sides $20

discussion by all

NANCY REITHER-SMITH

Welcome to a truly exceptional residence where luxury meets waterfront tranquility. This stunning 5-bedroom, 6-full-bathroom, and 2-half-bathroom Bayfront home, epitomizes coastal elegance with 145 feet of direct bay frontage and captivating southern exposure. Step through the elegant front door and be immediately entranced by the intricate details and high-end upgrades throughout. MDWO2014714

424 LARK LANE #E303 OCEAN CITY • $273,900

This 2BR/1BA condo is currently being used as an Airbnb and the rental income is amazing. The condo is being sold furnished and is in move in ready condition. It is close to restaurants, shops, Jolly Roger, the boardwalk and beach. The complex has a large outdoor pool. Come take a look today before it's SOLD! MDWO2020908

HOUSE SATURDAY, 1:30-3:30PM &SUNDAY, 11AM-1PM

Discover unparalleled luxury and coastal living in this spectacular 1970 sq ft -3-bedroom, 3.5-bathroom oceanfront condo, located in an exclusive boutique building in Ocean City, MD. Offering breathtaking panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean, this meticulously designed home is a true sanctuary. As you enter, you are immediately greeted by a spacious open concept living area featuring stunning hardwood floors and large windows that invite natural light and incredible ocean vistas. The gourmet kitchen is a chef’s dream, complete with premium Sub Zero and Wolf appliances, custom cabinetry, and sleek granite countertops. The kitchen seamlessly flows into the family and dining areas, creating an ideal space for both everyday living and entertaining. A cozy fireplace adds a touch of warmth and elegance to the space. The luxurious primary suite is your personal retreat, offering a serene ambiance and an en-suite bathroom with a jetted tub, a tiled shower, and dual vanities. The two additional bedrooms are equally impressive, each with its own ensuite bath, providing ample space and privacy for family and guests. Enjoy the soothing sounds of the ocean from the comfort of your home and start your day with stunning sunrise views from the private balcony. Modern touches such as custom tilework, plush carpeting, and a full-size laundry room with additional storage ensure that every detail has been thoughtfully designed. Sold fully furnished. Schedule your private tour today! MDWO2023024

2BR/2BA Direct Bayfront Condo with Million Dollar Views! Welcome to your dream retreat, where breathtaking sunsets await you every night. This condo is direct bayfront and has panoramic views that will leave you speechless. As you step inside, you’ll immediately fall in love with the thoughtfully designed floor plan that maximizes space and comfort offering 1245 sq ft. The chef-inspired kitchen is a delight, featuring abundant cabinet and counter space, perfect for crafting gourmet meals. The dining area seamlessly flows from the kitchen, making it ideal for family gatherings while you enjoy picturesque views of the water. The spacious family room is designed for entertaining, opening up to a massive bayfront deck where you can unwind and soak in the cool summer breezes. Whether it’s morning coffee or evening cocktails, this

a large swimming pool and sun deck, relaxation is just steps away. This prime location is conveniently situated mid-town, just two blocks from the beach and close to a variety of restaurants and shops. Don’t miss your chance to own this slice of paradise— schedule your private showing today! MLS MDWO2026626

10312

THIRTY KNOTS LANE GLENN RIDDLE • BERLIN

$1,390,000

Rare Opportunity: Build Your Dream Home on a Prime Waterfront Lot! Seize the chance to create your ideal residence on this exceptional 0.73-acre waterfront lot, nestled on an expansive sandy beach within the highly sought-after gated community of Glen Riddle. Enjoy panoramic views of the Ocean City skyline, and breathtaking vistas of Turville and Hearing Creek, as well as the Assawoman Bay. Glen Riddle is an amenityrich community, featuring: Two championship golf courses, outdoor pool, The Ruth Chis Clubhouse, tennis courts, fitness center, billiard room, golf memberships, Jogging and walking paths, and a community room. Don't miss this rare chance to live in luxury with unparalleled views and exclusive amenities! Owner financing available. MDWO2023166

HOME PARKS FENWICK

This is a prime location in sought-after Fenwick Island! This is an extremely

tunity to

C-1 commercial

in Fenwick Island DE close to the beach and Atlantic Ocean. A salty breeze carries the scent of the Atlantic Ocean as you stand on these 4 commercially zoned C-1 parcels in Fenwick Island. DESU2059926 DESU2059940

DIRECT

WATERFRONT LOT

By Brian Shane Staff Writer

(Feb. 28, 2025) When an arctic vortex sent temperatures plummeting across Ocean City overnight, property manager Kelly Quinn suddenly had to deal with a dozen condo units flooded out at Sunset Island because the pipes froze and burst.

After dealing with the fire department, she had to break the bad news to the owners – and then once more, the next winter, when it happened all over again.

“Delivering bad news to people is the worst, and we have to do it all the time,” she said.

Perils of the job don’t end there for a condo manager. Between handling broken elevators on move-in days, renter-owner squabbles on weekends, frivolous lawsuits, and even the persistent, pernicious issue of un-scooped dog poop, resort condo managers have seen it all.

In the face of these kind of daily battles – and the bigger issues facing condos like inflation, insurance, and reserve studies – the Delmarva Community Managers Association says it’s here to help Ocean City’s thousands of residential condos with legislation and education.

“We can be a great resource to associations and boards,” said veteran property manager Igor Conev with

See PROPERTY Page 10

Property managers face changing dynamics

Mann Properties in Ocean City. “If they need vendors, if they need reserve study specialists, if they need electrical experts. Whatever the subject matter is, we can help people with that. We work together to help each other out.”

This comes into play even more for condo owners who aren’t local and have to problem-solve from miles away, said DCMA member Jordan MacWha, a branch manager with Hawkins Electric Service in West Ocean City.

“A lot of the members that are these self-managed boards, they don’t know really what is going on,” he said. “There might be different kind of codes and regulations in Ocean City or Sussex County that are different than where they live in New York or New Jersey. With people that this is their

second home, they don’t see all the changes going on here.”

One of those changes on the horizon is new state initiative that says buildings over 35,000 square feet must switch over to electric power and shut down fossil fuel operations by 2040.

For Worcester County, this change to what are known as Building Energy Performance Standards not only affects government facilities, but many private buildings like hotels and highrise condos.

It’s a policy that developers and condo owners should know about now, said DCMA president Michele Nadeau, who also manages the Gateway Grand condo building in Ocean City.

“If I took you into my maintenance shop and you saw the size of our gas

run boilers, to be able to keep water hot in this building, and having to convert them to electric? The costs are going to be astronomical. So I can only imagine all of the [condo] communities that have no idea this is even happening,” she said.

On top of that, Nadeau added, major materials and electrical components for those kinds of upgrades can’t just be bought off the shelf, and it may take condo manager as long as 14 months to get that equipment delivered because of demand.

Another issue impacting condos right now are reserve studies, DCMA members said. State legislators mandated that condo buildings, as of 2023, need to start keeping far more cash in reserves, which has some unit owners facing five-digit bills to comply.

Insurance rates are rising, too, impacted by national events like wildfires in California, a building collapse in Florida, or flooding in North Carolina. When the insurance rates renew for a smaller condo building, the bills can add up.

Conev said he just got a notice on one account where the insurance went up 52%.

million today because of the cost of materials and labor.”

Founded in 1976 by managers of three Ocean City high-rise condos –High Point South, the Pyramid, and the Irene – the DCMA grew its membership along with the resort’s condo boom of the 1980s and 90s. Today, the association has about 200 members.

Over the years, the group has advocated for sprinklers in high rises, helped to make condo association meetings open to the public, and worked with Ocean City leaders to stabilize the dunes on the oceanfront.

One thing that’s changed in the last decade in the condo community is communication. In the past, unit owners met in person. But, in a postCOVID world, a group videoconference over Zoom is now just as likely a way for condo owners to converse, DCMA members said. What else has changed for the better is a newfound sense of camaraderie among condo managers, said longtime DCMA member Stephan Kaganzev, with First Service Residential out of Millville, Del.

“The bottom line is the bottom line,” he said. “Everybody’s budgets have gone up double and triple. It’s inflation, too – if a claim cost half a million six years ago, it costs over a

“You turn the clock back 10 years, and it used to be – eh, they’re with that company. Nobody wanted to engage,” he said. “The world has changed. We’re all on the same ship, we’re heading in the same direction. We’re managing communities. We all face the same issues.”

of you today, support that.”

However, Stansbury acknowledged that the city must find a way to enforce its code while adhering to federal laws surrounding the First Amendment.

“Vulgarity and profanity is protected speech, but it is not an unfettered right and there can be limitations to it,” she added. “So for the public’s purposes, make no mistake about it, we don’t intend to ban this information. What we intend to do is to do what many jurisdictions have done and move it out of plain sight of minors.”

As proposed, staff recommend that the city include definitions of obscene, vulgar, sexually explicit or profane materials and merchandise. Code changes would also prohibit the open display of such materials unless confined to an area of the business that cannot be viewed from outside.

“The second part of the regulation would be to require a business owner to display a sign or signage identifying that these types of materials are in fact located in the store, and that before someone enters, they recognize that they’re entering a store with that,” Stansbury added. “That way a parent or guardian can make their

own independent decision about whether it’s best to place their family in that type of environment.”

The proposed code change would also come with penalties, which include a municipal infraction and $500 fine for the first violation, a municipal infraction and $1,000 fine for the second violation, and potential suspension or revocation of a business license for the third violation.

When asked about the infraction period, Stansbury said infractions could be issued daily if a violation is not corrected.

“This is an evolving process, and we may come to you with additional steps,” Stansbury said of the proposed ordinance.

After further discussion, the council voted 7-0 to have staff prepare a draft ordinance aimed at protecting minors from obscene, vulgar, profane or sexually explicit materials and merchandise on the Boardwalk and to bring it back for a first reading.

“This is a good compromise,” Council President Matt James said. “I think a lot of people prefer this material not be sold in town. Understanding why that would present its own problems, I think this is a good first step. And I think it will do what we are trying to do with our public areas.”

By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor

(Feb. 28, 2025) Several parking changes, including fee increases, could soon take effect after the council this week agreed to advance multiple ordinances and resolutions.

On Tuesday, Public Works Director Hal Adkins presented the Ocean City Council with a slew of ordinances and resolutions aimed at paid parking. The proposed changes, he said, were the result of a lengthy work session the council held in December.

“You will recall we were last before you at the December 10, 2024 work session …,” he said. “We are back today to further discuss and hopefully wrap up some of those loose ends as we roll into the paid parking season for 2025.”

One ordinance would allow the Mayor and City Council to enhance penalties for violations on designated special event dates and allow the city’s new parking division to enforce scofflaw penalties. Fines for certain violations, such as parking in a no parking zone, parking at a red curb, and parking on a sidewalk, for example, would double during special event dates, Adkins added.

However, the council agreed that those enhanced fines should also apply to events with a special event zone designation.

“There’s thought behind enacting a special event zone,” Council President Matt James said. “So maybe some of the same concerns would be relevant to parking.”

Staff this week also presented the council with an ordinance that re-

states all paid parking and adds a southern parking district. Adkins noted that he and Parking Manager Jon Anthony had also received support from the Ocean City Development Corporation.

“Jon and I did in fact meet with OCDC,” he said. “I think it was a board of directors meeting because there were like 14 people in the room that I didn’t expect, and the end result was a unanimous vote in support of adding paid parking to the rest of the areas that are not paid south of the Route 50 bridge.”

In addition to the two ordinances, staff presented two resolutions. The first resolution would establish new paid parking rates for street parking and parking lots.

Fees for the Inlet lot, as well as all on-street paid parking and parking

lots located on blocks abutting the beach or Boardwalk would be set at $3.50 per hour in the shoulder season and $4.50 during the summer season. Those rates would then decrease the spaces that do not abut the beach or Boardwalk.

“A street that is currently abutting the Boardwalk – I will pick one such as Talbot Street, Baltimore Avenue to the Boardwalk – would have a higher hourly rate than a street not abutting the Boardwalk …,” Adkins explained.

The resolution would also implement paid parking, seven days a week, from April 1 through Oct. 31 at 99th Street bayside, 100th Street bayside, the 100th Street lot and the 64th Street boat ramp lot. It also establishes special event parking rates, which increases the rate for most paid parking spaces by $1.50 for 2025 special events. Those dates would be set through a second resolution presented on Tuesday.

In response to the proposed parking rate changes, Councilman John Gehrig said he wanted staff to consider a parking incentive for residents.

“I do think every homesteaded resident should have at least one vehicle that qualifies for free parking,” he said.

Lastly, staff this week presented the council with some code cleanup related to “metered” and “meterless” paid parking. They also presented a repeal of the city’s “orange dot” program, in which the city makes free parking accommodations for those owning property in front of or adjacent to metered on-street parking. That space is then marked with an orange dot and will not be charged the parking fee.

“It’s gone, it’s historical, end of story,” Adkins said.

Following the staff presentation, the council voted to advance the changes to next Monday’s Mayor and City Council meeting.

Staff noted that most of the proposed changes would result in hundreds of thousands of dollars in additional revenue for the city.

Stay informed with our digital newsletter

Interested in getting more information more quickly than our weekly OC TodayDispatch delivers? Our five-days-a-week digital newsletter might be just what you need.

We have developed an in-your-morningemail product (with updates for breaking news) and invite you to give it a try.

If you sign up now, you’ll get a free threemonth trial subscription, to what will become available by paid subscription only for a nominal charge. How nominal? $1 a month or $10 a year to cover our production costs.

Resort to provide $150K for 2025 Cruisin’ sponsorship

By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor

(Feb. 28, 2025) The 34th Annual Cruisin’ Ocean City will return to the resort this spring following council approval on Tuesday.

Last fall, Special Event Productions, producer of Cruisin’ Ocean City, announced it would be moving its mid-May event to May 1-4 in an effort to make room in the spring special events calendar for a new attraction, later revealed to be the Boardwalk Rock music festival.

Solidifying that move this week, the Ocean City Council agreed to support the car show’s private event request.

“The city asked that spring Cruisin’ change their event dates this year to May 1-4,” Special Events Coordinator Lisa Mitchell said. “Historically, this event has always been held the Thursday through Sunday prior to Memorial Day weekend.”

For more than three decades, Cruisin’ Ocean City has attracted automotive vendors and enthusiasts to the resort for a weekend of car shows, Boardwalk parades, music and more. This year, the promoter is proposing the same festivities as in years past. This time, however, the event will be

held in early May.

As part of its event terms, the city will provide the car show’s producer $150,000 as a sponsor of the 2025 event. In return, the producer, at its own expense, will sell trailer parking permits – provided by the town – for $50 each, with 100% of the revenue paid back to the city.

“In requesting this change, the town’s tourism department and city manager met with Cruisin’ reps to discuss the town helping to alleviate some of the financial hardships that come with this event move,” Mitchell said of the $150,000 contribution.

The terms will vary from last year’s private event, when the Cruisin’ producer provided the city with $1,175 in private event fees, as well as 10% of participant registration, Inlet lot vendor fees and Inlet lot ticket sales. Last year, the producer also sold trailer parking permits, but the town paid for the production of those permits.

During last week’s Mayor and City Council meeting, a private event approval request from Cruisin’ Ocean City was pulled from the agenda, as staff “were not ready to present the event with its revised dates and agreement as additional discussion

See FUNDS Page 14

LOTS OF SPACE in this 4 BR home located on an oversized cul-de-sac lot! Sold As-Is. but all it needs is a little love to make it shine again! The hardwood entry leads to the soaring 2-story great room. Relax on the 14x10 screened porch or ground level decks. The 17x14 Primary Bedroom has a walk-in closet, & upstairs there are 3 more bedrooms. Located close to the water & golf course. Debbie Hileman

Debbie@HilemanRealEstate.com

RUSTIC FARMETTE IN

Situated just 10 miles from Berlin (voted America’s Coolest Small Town), the OC resort areas, Assateague Island and is only a 10-minute drive to the NEW Showell Elementary School. 3 BR rancher with shed & fenced yard sits on 4.9 acres with over 1000 feet of road frontage. Updated in 2019 with new windows, vinyl siding, water heater & more! New asphalt driveway installed.

This charming

at the front

home

fencing, lamp post & long driveway. The exterior was fully painted, water heater, front-loading washer and all windows were replaced in 2023, a new roof in 2015. Includes a beautiful brick wood-burning fireplace, an island in the kitchen, & LVP flooring. Plenty of outdoor space on the 13x10 screened porch, or in the rear yard with shed. Located on a lovely cul-de-sac street! Brand new HVAC & Vapor Barrier! $359,900

Nice property right in town. Easy walk to downtown. Home is 3 bedrooms, 2 baths. Nice front porch and gated back yard with a shed. Make this house your home!

Primary resident program to get funding boost

By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor

(Feb. 28, 2025) The council this week agreed to increase the budget for the city’s Primary Residence Incentive Program.

Acknowledging that the city continued to exceed its $50,000 budget in administering its Primary Residence Incentive Program, the council on Tuesday voted unanimously to increase the amount to $100,000.

In her audit presentation to the council, Internal Auditor Karin Scott said the city had spent an average of $76,000 a year since the program began.

“The program is supposed to be a first come, first served basis and it’s supposed to be limited to the approved budget,” she explained.

In 2020, the Mayor and Council established a Primary Residence Incentive Program, a two-year pilot program to encourage full-time homeownership in Ocean City. Simply put, the program lowers the cost of a new primary residence by waiving certain building permit fees up to $7,500 and refunding certain local property taxes up to $2,500.

Last summer, however, the Mayor and Council agreed to make the incentives a permanent program in Ocean City. Officials at the time noted the program had been successful, as it had resulted in more than 70 applications and 24 new or substantially improved homes, along with property tax rebates once primary residency is confirmed.

Scott continued to recognize the program’s successes in an audit report presented to the council Tuesday. However, she asked the council for clarification on the program’s budget and the distribution of funds on a “first come, first served” basis.

“We do go over it,” Scott said of the budget, “but I would like to know what the council’s intention is.”

Funds address event date move

Continued from Page 13

was necessary to clarify financial details,” according to Private Events Director Frank Miller.

Back on the agenda Tuesday, the council voted 7-0 to approve the private event request, with the revised dates and terms.

In return for the event promoter moving the 2025 Cruisin’ to an earlier date, Special Event Productions reported last fall that dates for the 2026 and 2027 spring Cruisin’ events have been solidified.

Colonial

features built-in seating

stoop, brick walkways, picket

23 SEAGRAVE LANE OCEAN PINES

Audit reveals program challenges

City Manager Terry McGean said the program covered two incentives – a property tax rebate and a building fee waiver. He questioned if it was the council’s intent to budget $50,000 for both programs or $50,000 for each.

In a 7-0 vote, the council ultimately agreed to increase the total program budget to $100,000, with no set amount going toward any one incentive.

“I think the budget needs to be respected,” Council President Matt James added. “We need to know if we’re going to be over budget.”

Continuing her audit presentation, Scott this week also presented her findings of the city’s property tax rebates. While eligibility is based on the property owner being approved for the Maryland Homestead Property Tax Credit within 12 months, she noted that the requirement has not been followed. She also noted that one tax rebate had exceeded the $2,500 limit.

“The recommendations I have to rectify that are to update our tracking spreadsheet, make sure we follow the requirement of the state Homestead Property Tax Credit, and rebates are not to be approved until the requirement is met,” she said.

Scott also highlighted the findings

of an audit of the city’s building permit waivers. She said one waiver was granted to an LLC, another was issued without an affidavit, and three awarded properties were not primary residences.

“One of the things that we haven’t really tackled is the fact that for the building permit credit, we’re looking at an application before the building is built and before somebody moves in and establishes their primary residence …,” City Planner Bill Neville added. “Our recommendation would be that we only issue rebates rather than the building permit credit …”

For his part, Planning and Community Development Director

George Bendler said he would like to see the city do away with the building permit fee waiver and focus solely on property tax rebates.

“I think the waiver is nice, but it needs to be a rebate. It doesn’t need to be an upfront cost,” he explained. “And I think the rebate for the tax incentive will be a better incentive to attract residents versus the upfront cost of the building permit.”

Scott also presented other recommendations regarding the Primary Residence Incentive Program. She recommended that the program’s policies and procedures be revised and that the city’s tracking software be updated.

$245,000

3 Bedrooms on a Beautiful Pond Lot! Enjoy Nature & Privacy on this Extra Large Lot. Furnished with Many Upgrades including: HVAC, Tankless Water Heater, Windows, Slider & Entry Door, Dry Zone Encapsulation, Refrigerator, Dishwasher & Roof. Large Courtyard with Pond View. 8 x 10 Shed with Electric & Refrigerator/Freezer

Bay View! 2 Bedroom Cottage with a Million Dollar View of Assateague Island, Sinepuxent Bay & 1000ft. Pier! This Cottage has Drywall Interior Cathedral Ceiling, Skylights & Updated Bow Window in Dining Area. Spacious Kitchen with Gas Stove & Built-in Microwave. Full Size Washer/Dryer. On a Corner Lot with Courtyard & Shed. Call Tony Matrona 410-641-1671

Space to Entertain. Den/Guest Bedroom with Built-ins. Gas Stove, Stack Washer/Dryer. Enjoy the Outdoors with a Large Courtyard and a Covered Rear Deck & Golf Cart! Call Tony Matrona 410-641-1671

Open Wednesday thru Saturday, 10am-6pm Monday & Tuesday by Appointment

Ocean City considers a rule modification for candidates

Election applicants may be forced to reside in town for two years prior to running

By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor

(Feb. 28, 2025) The Ocean City Council is considering a charter amendment that could increase the residency requirements for candidates.

Last fall, weeks before the municipal election, the Ocean City Council voted to disqualify council candidate Leslie Smith, with a majority arguing she did not meet the city’s domicile requirements.

While Smith declared her Ocean City property to be her main residence, many argued she resided full time at her property in Bishopville.

That, in turn, kicked off a larger discussion about residency, as well as the need for charter amendments, which were presented for discussion at Tuesday’s work session.

After a lengthy discussion, the council directed the city solicitor to research charter changes that could increase the length of residency, prohibit candidates from holding a short-term rental license, and shift the judges of candidate confirmations from the Mayor and City Council to the Ocean City Board of Supervisors of Elections.

“That’s all we’re trying to do, go back and clearly define where you can’t just pretend to live here and run for council,” Councilman Jake Mitrecic said. “I think that was always the intent.”

Currently, the city’s charter requires a candidate to be a resident and “domiciled” in the town four months prior to the election. However, a majority of council members this week agreed that the length of residency should be extended to two years, a requirement that is currently set for Worcester County.

“I thought two years would be more appropriate because we are in Worcester County,” Councilman Will Savage said. “And for the purposes of knowing what’s going on in local politics in our town, we want people to be here for a longer amount of time and actually live here.”

The council this week also directed staff to expand the city’s residency requirements by prohibiting a candidate from holding a short-term rental license for a property they declare to be their domicile, which represents a permanent home a property owner intends to return to at all times.

“Looking at the list of comparable [jurisdictions], Ocean City is clearly unique between the number of visitors we have per year and the number of second-home owners …,” Savage said. “I would like to see us not allow

people to have a short-term rental license on their primary residence for the term we establish. Right now the consensus is two years.”

During the council’s discussions, City Solicitor Heather Stansbury suggested a rental license could imply that a candidate was not a full-time resident of that property. However, she made it clear that the city would continue to allow tenants to run for an elected position.

“Recall and always remember, and for the public’s purpose, by no means anything that we are doing today is suggesting you must own property to run,” she said.

The current charter also addresses how the mayor or a council member can be removed from office if he or she fails to maintain the eligibility requirements. Officials questioned if there should be a greater link between qualifications and disqualification.

To that end, Stansbury this week suggested language that requires an elected official to continue to reside in and maintain their domicile for the duration of their term. In a recent council meeting, during which shortterm rentals were discussed, a local property owner accused Council Secretary Tony DeLuca of not living at his Ocean City residence.

“Another recommendation, working in tandem, is presently, it is believed a current elected official has not maintained their requirements that existed to get he or she elected,” she said. “During the term of their office, they can be sought to be removed. This council would sit in judge of them. That is in your charter already, but it’s in a different section. So you have to read two sections of the charter together, and I think that is less than clear.”

Councilman Larry Yates said he also wanted the city solicitor to explore another way for accepting the list of candidates in a municipal election. Currently, the charter gives that authority to the council, which could also have members running for an elected position.

“I have a concern about that,” he said, “and if there’s a way to move that outside to an election committee or someone else, I would feel more comfortable with that.”

For her part, Stansbury said she could explore a charter change that would delegate that responsibility to the Board of Supervisors of Elections. However, she noted that Ocean City was consistent with other municipalities.

“They too sit in judge of their own candidates,” she explained. “However that may have felt this year, that is the norm rather than the outlier.”

Officials this week also questioned if language should be added to better

Greenways proposal gets Worcester support

A comprehensive project to improve walking and biking conditions one step closer

By Brian Shane Staff Writer

(Feb. 28, 2025) A grant-funded network of bicycle and walking trails that could eventually connect all of Worcester County has garnered preliminary approval from county officials.

The Worcester County Board of Commissioners at its Feb. 18 meeting unanimously approved a Greenway Trails Master Plan. Greenways proposed include shared on-road bike lanes, paved off-road walking and biking paths, unpaved trails in natural landscapes, side path trails adjacent to roadways, and even a “rail with trail” option where a pathway runs parallel to an existing railway line.

Different greenway ideas were sorted categorically: short-term and quick build (within 5 years), mediumterm (within 10 years) and long-term (more than 10 years) improvements. The plan also suggests focusing on land acquisition for recreational uses in West Ocean City, Berlin, and Pocomoke City, areas where the fewest residents live within five miles of a walking trail.

Bob Mitchell, head of the county’s environmental programs department, called the proposal a “guidance document” for decision making and future realization of interconnected greenways, trails, and bike paths that connect residents to destinations like parks and natural areas.

“This is not a plan to go and take and mow down a pathway to a destination. This is more of an A-to-B in showing our existing trailways and what we plan to do,” Mitchell told the commissioners.

Mitchell said the project team spent months hosting public meetings, meeting with local groups, and collecting in-person and online feed-

back from hundreds of people.

Most respondents (87%) expressed support for more greenway trails in the county, with a preference for separated shared-use trails, which are standalone share-use trails that don’t share space with a road or highway. Commenters also asked for wayfinding signage, lighting, rest areas, bicycle parking, and boat launches to be taken into consideration.

One long-term suggestion from commenters was to create greenways linking West Ocean City to Pocomoke City through Berlin and Snow Hill. Other feedback included a desire for longer connected paths that offer safe and convenient access to destinations

without gaps or barriers.

One public comment from Lisa Challenger, executive director of the Beach to Bay Heritage Area, noted that adding a bicycle path along Route 589 for seasonal Ocean City workers should be a high priority for safety’s sake.

“This is a highly traveled road and not geared to sharing the road with bicycle traffic. The fact that most housing costs price seasonal workforce out of the market in Ocean City, leaving them to live in parts west of Ocean City, makes this a high priority due to safety and high usage,” she wrote.

Council residency law reexamined

Continued from Page 16

define domicile. Under Maryland law, while someone can have multiple residences, they only have one domicile, which represents a permanent home.

The definition was called into question last fall when it was learned Smith had rented out her Ocean City residence for several weeks last summer.

“I’m entitled to do what I want with my property as long as it’s my intent to return to my property and live there,” Joe Moore, Smith’s attorney, said in her defense last fall.

However, Stansbury told council members Tuesday that it would be difficult to veer away from the use of domicile in establishing a person’s residency.

“Domicile is a defined term in state

law and in federal law,” she explained. “It is a hard concept, which is why I believe they allowed you all to sit in judge of that.”

After further discussion, Stansbury agreed to do more research on some of the proposed charter changes, including the extended length of residency, the rental restriction, and an alternative method for judging an eligible candidacy.

Area restaurant loses liquor license for month after sale

A Plaza Tapatia worker still employed by company after serving alcohol to a minor

By Brian Shane Staff Writer

(Feb. 28, 2025) A Mexican restaurant in Ocean Pines had its liquor license suspended for 30 days for selling alcohol to a minor.

The Worcester County Board of License Commissioners at a Feb. 19 hearing levied the penalty, which also included a $4,000 fine, against the Plaza Tapatia restaurant located in the South Gate Shopping Center.

Hearing testimony showed that on Jan. 20, a female employee at the Plaza Tapatia in the South Gate Shopping Center failed to ask for ID or ask his age when an underage cadet with the Worcester County Sherif’s Office ordered a Miller Lite bottle at lunchtime.

When the regular bartender stepped out, the woman, who told the board she usually did not tend bar, filled his duty station. The woman was not certified in Techniques of Alcohol Management, or TAM, which is required for bartenders in Maryland, according to testimony.

A representative from Plaza Tapatia management at the hearing told License Commissioners Reese Cropper III and Charles Nichols that she takes full responsibility and declined to terminate the employee for the oversight.

“I advocated for her, because I thought it was our responsibility, because of her age, that she deserves the opportunity,” said Jacqueline Saldana, a manager with the familyowned chain of restaurants. “But I strongly believe that, if it would have been any of my other servers, I would have fired them on the spot, because it is complete negligence.”

Board members noted that Plaza Tapatia had five prior citations since 1998 for selling to a minor and also had passed 11 other compliance checks. The restaurant group also was fined and suspended for a month in 2014 for sale to a minor and received a fine for an underage sale in 2023, according to testimony.

The board considered the restaurant’s track record of underage service violations when deciding upon a penalty.

“I realize this was a situation where you kind of got caught betwixt and be-

Officials to apply for grants for the greenways project

Continued from Page 18

Mitchell said the project’s as-yetunknown price tag would be in the millions, and it would be almost completely grant-funded; a small percentage of the future cost would come from county funds.

Public Works Director Dallas Baker told the commissioners that having their approval and support would help to secure grant funding.

“A lot of these grants, you become a lot more competitive if you have these kinds of projects listed in an approved greenways plan,” Baker said. “They want to know that the projects we’re proceeding have the political leadership buy-in. We’re competing with all the other counties in the state for some of this money, and it just makes us that much more competitive.”

District 3 Commissioner Eric Fiori said his West Ocean City constituents would benefit from greenways where pedestrians and cyclists could safely steer clear of vehicular traffic.

“I just think this is something that’s going to cost the county very little over the long range, and it’s all going to be a huge benefit for our residents,” he said. “Even our tourism side of things, as our bike events become more numerous, this will allow us not to shut down major highways like 611” during bicycle events.

Worcester has never undertaken such a comprehensive plan for greenways, bikes, or pedestrians, the pro-

Establishments receive citations

Continued from Page 20

tween, with your changing personnel,” Cropper said, “but it’s something that’s been a law and a rule since Day One. It’s not something new.”

Also at the hearing, a West Ocean City restaurant was cited for selling to a minor and received a letter of reprimand from the board as a penalty.

A male employee of Cantina Los Agaves Mexican Grill, located in the Park Place Plaza, was caught Jan. 20 providing a Miller Lite bottle to the same sheriff’s cadet without asking for proof of age or ID. The man was properly alcohol-certified, according to his attorney, Joe Moore.

Moore asked the board for a letter of reprimand and to take into consideration that the restaurant had passed a compliance check from May 21, 2024.

“I will tell you, for the record,” Moore added, “they have a heck of a mariachi band.”

Another violation hearing for selling to a minor, for Oasis Bar & Grill in

had

posal notes. However, some local municipalities already have plans for their own trails, the proposal notes.

The 2013 Walkable Bikeable Berlin plan recommends three intercon-

nected trail networks around the town. Snow Hill’s 2022 Bikeway Feasibility Study recommends the town become a regional destination for bike trails.

Mailloux enters plea of guilty

Continued from Page 1

March 19, and Mailloux was immediately remanded into custody. Both sides in the case declined to comment following the hearing.

“There’s no good outcome here,” Judge Brett Wilson said.

Leading up to Tuesday’s hearing, Mailloux faced 17 traffic charges in the death of Knupp, a pedestrian who was struck and killed by a motorist in a black Mercedes while crossing Grays Corner Road on the night of July 11, 2022. Knupp was reportedly returning to a vehicle driven by his older sister and died from injuries sustained in the collision. Mailloux was accused of fleeing the scene and not returning, according to charges filed.

Since that time, the case has worked its way through the legal system, starting with a motions hearing in August of 2023. At that hearing, Wilson granted the defense’s motion to dismiss, opining that the district court had “exclusive and original” jurisdiction. From there, the prosecution appealed the ruling to the Appellate Court of Maryland, which reversed the lower court’s decision.

The case was ultimately brought back to Worcester County Circuit Court, which had scheduled a 13-day trial to begin next Monday, March 3.

Ahead of that trial, a hearing was held Tuesday to consider more than 20 motions filed in the case, including a granted motion to quash a subpoena that would require State’s Attorney Kris Heiser to testify and a denied motion to recuse the Worcester County State’s Attorney’s Office from the case.

Mailloux’s attorney, George Psoras, also sought motions to dismiss the case, arguing the state had delayed charging and had failed to pro-

vide several pieces of evidence, including Knupp’s clothing and cellphone, which the Knupp family testified had been lost during a move.

“They have completely butchered this case from the beginning,” Psoras told the judge.

However, the prosecution argued it had provided all available information to Psoras and had filed charges in a timely manner.

“In fact, it would have been an error on our part to charge earlier than we did,” Assistant State’s Attorney Michael Farlow said.

Attorneys for both sides argued on various motions for more than four hours Tuesday. However, after the court reconvened from lunch, it was announced a plea agreement had been reached.

Mailloux pleaded guilty to one felony count, and the state’s attorney’s office agreed it would not prosecute the remaining charges.

Sentencing guidelines for the conviction are three months to four years. The state’s attorney’s office is recommending the maximum penalty of 10 years, with all but three years and 227 days suspended.

The state’s attorney’s office also recommended probation with certain special conditions, including that Mailloux have no contact with the Knupp family and that he complete in-person community service and a driver improvement course, among other things.

“Today was an emotional but gratifying day,” the Knupp family said in a statement through their attorney, Neil Dubovsky.

“For the first time since our nightmare started, we saw the person who took our son and brother begin to be held accountable. We want to again thank Kris Heiser and her team for their tireless efforts to help make this happen. Nothing will bring Gavin

back and our fight is far from over, but today was a meaningful step in the right direction. And for that we are grateful.”

Efforts ongoing to find Ocean City’s next police chief

By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor

(Feb. 28, 2025) The city will have more than two dozen resumes to review as the application period for the police chief position concludes.

On Feb. 28, the Town of Ocean City will begin its first review of resumes submitted for the city’s police chief position. As of last Friday, the city had received 25 applications.

The goal is to hire a new police chief this spring.

“I see no issue with the summer season,” City Manager Terry McGean said last week.

Last October, Ross Buzzuro announced he would be retiring from his role as the city’s police chief, effective immediately. No additional information was provided other than that Capt. Michael Colbert would assume command of the department as the city conducts a national search for Buzzuro’s replacement.

In January, the city hired Sumter Consulting to lead the search effort. And at the end of the month, a formal job listing was posted.

A recruitment packet details the roles of the police chief position, which includes a salary of $135,000 to $156,000. The police chief reports to the city manager and is tasked with overseeing the department and its 100-plus sworn officers and civilian employees.

However, the city acknowledges

PHOTO COURTESY CAMPOS MEDIA

Hundreds of local residents turned out in July 2022 to celebrate the life of Gavin Knupp, who was killed two weeks earlier in a hit-and-run collision on Grays Corner Road.

Former OC officers killed in the line of duty

By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor

(Feb. 28, 2025) Officers within the Ocean City Police Department (OCPD) are reeling this week after learning two former seasonal employees were killed responding to separate incidents last weekend.

driver, who shot the two officers during a physical altercation, was later found dead of a self-inflicted gunshot wound, the Virginia Beach Police Department reports.

On Sunday, the OCPD released a statement notifying the public of three officer deaths within two separate communities. Two of those officers –Cameron Girvin of the Virginia Beach Police Department and Andrew Duarte of the West York Borough Police Department in Pennsylvania –started their law enforcement careers with the Ocean City agency.

“Losing one of our own, no matter where they served, is a profound reminder of the risks we take and the bond we share,” OCPD Interim Chief Michael Colbert said in a news release.

On the evening of Friday, Feb. 21, Virginia Beach Police Department officers Girvin, 25, and Christopher Reese, 30, were shot while conducting a traffic stop. Both officers were transported to area hospitals, where they later succumbed to their injuries. The

“These officers are not just members of this department, they’re family, they’re friends, and they were protectors of this community,” Virginia Beach Police Chief Paul Neudigate said in a press conference last weekend. “And I’m going to be quite honest, we’re all hurting.”

Girvin, who had worked for the Virginia Beach agency since 2020, started his law enforcement career with the OCPD in 2018. He served as a public safety aide and was assigned to the Boardwalk during the evening shift.

The following morning, tragedy struck again, this time in York County, Pennsylvania. Officers responded to UPMC Memorial Hospital for an active shooter incident, during which Duarte, 30, of the West York Borough Police Department, was fatally shot. Two additional officers and three hospital staff members were wounded and are reported to be in stable condition.

“Our prayers and deepest condolences go out to West York Borough Police Officer, Andrew Duarte’s family and all of our brothers and sisters in the West York Borough Police Department that have lost a comrade and friend, and furthermore our fellow Borough agencies that have lost a colleague,” a statement from West York Borough reads. “Our community grieves the loss of a hero.”

Like Girvin, Duarte began his law enforcement career in Ocean City. Duarte was a seasonal police officer in 2016 and was assigned to the day shift on the north end of town. Duarte served five years with the Denver Police Department before transferring to the West York Borough Police Department in 2022.

“We stand by the Virginia Beach and York County communities as we

all grieve and process these losses,” a news release from the OCPD reads. “Our hearts go out to the families of officers Cameron Girvin, Christopher Reese, and Andrew Duarte. Their bravery is a true testament to their dedication to keeping their respective communities safe. The Ocean City Police Department is proud and honored to have worked alongside Officers Girvin and Duarte.”

The families of the three fallen officers received an outpouring of support in the days following the two incidents. As of Monday, a GoFundMe page has raised more than $30,000 for Girvin’s wife, who is expecting the couple’s first child. In Pennsylvania, the York County Safety Collab and several local businesses have also launched fundraisers to support Duarte’s family.

Cameron Girvin Andrew Duarte

City staff to review applications

Continued from Page 22

the police chief posting will come with its own unique challenges. Those challenges include the loss of the city’s seasonal officer program and the national struggle to recruit and maintain officers.

“The Ocean City Police Department has historically depended on hiring extra officers during the busy tourist season, from Memorial Day to Labor Day, to effectively handle the significant influx of visitors,” a recruitment brochure reads. “However, recent changes in state law now forbid this longstanding practice. Consequently, the new Police Chief will face the crucial task of developing an

innovative and sustainable summer staffing strategy. This plan must balance the need for strong public safety coverage with the well-being of the department’s staff, ensuring that the workforce is not overwhelmed during the demanding peak season. The recruitment and retention of police officers have become significant challenges across the nation, and Ocean City is no exception.”

City staff will conduct its first review of resumes on Friday, with semi-finalists interviewed in early March, according to the job posting. Finalists will then be interviewed in late March, with a final candidate selected in early April.

9,084

By Tara Fischer Staff Writer

(Feb. 27, 2025) The speed cameras implemented in Berlin last summer have been successful in reducing speeding on Flower Street and Seahawk Road, officials said this week.

Each apparatus has two camera heads, for a total of six among the three locations of Flower Street at Railroad Avenue, Flower Street at Peach Lane, and Seahawk Road near Stephen Decatur High School, and records when drivers’ speed ticks past 12 mph over the posted legal limit of 25 mph.

All cameras were live in August. That month, the devices picked up 3,113 speeding violations. That figure has steadily decreased, and in December, the safety technology recorded 926 incidents of drivers going 37 mph or over. In total, from July-December, there 9,084 speeders issued tickets.

“Behaviors have changed,” Berlin Chief of Police Arnold Downing said. By law, speed cameras are only permitted to operate and issue citations between 6 a.m. and 8 p.m. Monday through Friday. However, Downing maintained that when the devices are not in use, officers return to the three locations and hand out tickets with higher fines and license points to speeding drivers.

“Don’t think that because they are operational only at certain times, we’re not coming back,” he noted. “[The cameras] are supporting us being in other places during those times, but we’re coming back… and getting people that think, ‘well, it’s not operating, so I can speed a bit.’”

The chief added to date, the violations have secured $180,000 in revenue for Berlin, accounting for the split deal with speed camera vendor Red Speed.

The agreement provides drivers who exceed 36 mph face a $40 fine. Berlin receives $26 of each ticket. Red Speed, responsible for mailing the violations, collects the remainder of the payment.

Officials emphasized Berlin’s funds from the citations must stay within the police department.

“We are going to use those funds and accomplish some capital needs that exist within the police department so this money can be turned around into community policing and increased resources that the department needs, as well as a campaign to increase speed awareness downtown,” Mayor Zack Tyndall said.

Council Vice President Dean Burrell, who lives near the camera sites, reminded while the revenue is a product of the cameras, it was not the intent.

“The objective we are trying to obtain is to slow folks down, and this is working the way in which it was intended,” the councilmember said. “I believe one of these months we’re going to come in here and have a total of zero, which would be great for Berlin.”

Ice cream creation eyed

Salisbury University and the Island Creamery will partner to create a new ice cream flavor in honor of SU’s 100th anniversary.

To bring this sweet centennial celebration to life, SU is inviting input from the public to participate in a contest to choose the special flavor.

to celebrate a milestone in our community,” said Kelly Conklin, owner of Island Creamery. “We can’t wait to see the creative ideas that come from SU students, alumni and the greater community.”

Each person whose flavor is selected as a finalist will receive an Island Creamery gift card.

Grants presented

From now until Tuesday, April 1, members of campus and the community can submit their most creative ice cream flavor and name ideas at https://salisbury.co1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_81 CuDuKEbCuFbzU. The most promising flavors will be created in small batches for an exclusive tasting event this spring. The winning flavor will be featured at Island Creamery locations throughout SU’s Centennial celebration, from September 2025 to May 2026.

“With a location adjacent to SU, Island Creamery is a favorite among students and other members of the University community,” said Jason Curtin, SU vice president of advancement, executive director of the SU Foundation, Inc., and SU Centennial chair. “Like SU, its ice cream is a longstanding tradition on the Delmarva Peninsula. We are excited to work together on this once-in-a-lifetime collaboration.”

“Island Creamery has always been about crafting unique, high-quality flavors that bring people together. Partnering with Salisbury University to create a special Centennial flavor is an exciting opportunity

The Black Excellence Community Fund, which is a Community Foundation of the Eastern Shore Giving Circle, awarded three grants in honor of Black History Month. The grants benefit local nonprofits which impact the quality of life for the local Black community.

Each organization received a $750 grant for their work. Grantees were:

It Takes A Village to Help Our Children, Inc. provides afterschool, summer, and college and career access programs to more than 200 at-risk youth each year. Program activities are designed to promote spiritual, social and educational wellbeing.

The Haitian Development Center assist, educate, and empower immigrant communities to better themselves and provides assistance for education, employment, housing, health, immigration, and other social concerns.

The Garland Hayward Youth Center aims to help youth achieve the necessary skills to make a safe and healthy transition into adulthood. Programming provides a safe place for youth to be-

long and interact with supportive adults to develop pro-social attitudes and healthy behaviors that will translate into better school performance.

Foundation supports WSW

Women Supporting Women has received a generous $30,000 grant from the Richard A. Henson Foundation.

In September of 2024, WSW was awarded a $30,000 grant through the Richard Henson Foundation. In the application, the organization asked that the funds be distributed over the next three years. When asked how the funds will aid the organization, Executive Director, Jocelyn Feist, stated, “This funding will continue to provide free services to those affected by breast cancer, as we too, are noticing the financial burden of rising costs. With the Richard A. Henson Foundation’s continued support for three years, WSW will be able to focus on the survivors and their family members during an overwhelming time. Especially, for those in our community who may need a little extra support and guidance”.

“We as a small, yet mighty local breast cancer non-profit cannot thank the Richard A. Henson Foundation enough for their generous support,” said Feist. “As someone who talks with and meets these amazing individuals at their most Earthshattering time, this contribution means so much, we can’t even put into words. I am incredibly grateful for the support of the Richard A. Henson Foundation.”

Scholarships offered

The Maryland Coastal Bays Program (MCBP) will be offering three scholarships valued at $1,000 each to qualifying high school seniors from Worcester County Public Schools interested in a future in the environmental field.

They are seeking applicants who are pursuing a 4-year or 2-year college or university, trade school, or Corps position with a focus on the environmental field.

“We did not want to restrict these scholarships to those students applying to four-year universities. Gateways into the environmental world can take different paths, and that might include not attending college at all,” said Liz Wist, Education Coordinator at the Maryland Coastal Bays Program.

To be eligible, applicants must be a student in the Worcester County Public School system, graduating high school in the spring of 2025, and must submit a completed application including two essay questions that will provide the opportunity for the applicant’s voice to be heard.

“The essay portion of the application is the most determining element of the application. It’s a chance for us to hear about the applicant’s interest and passion for the environment, and the impact it has had on their own lives,” said Wist. Applications for the scholarship are due by Friday, April 4. To read more about this new scholarship program, please visit https://mdcoastalbays.org/fundingopportunities/

314 FRANK VENUE, SUITE 405 (N AV LIN A LAB CORP), BER O NEXT

Furniture • Exercise Equipment Outside Play Sets • WiFi Security Cameras • TV Mounting

FOR FASTEST SERVICE: We need your address & contact information and exact brand name, model #’s and quantity. Email us a copy of your receipt/pictures.

Sasha@AtlanticAssemblers.com 302-569-9732

Best Beats On The Beach

Who’s Where When

COINS PUB

410-289-3100

28th Street Plaza On Coastal Hwy.

Friday, February 28: Shortcut Sunny Saturday, March 1: Monkee Paw

CRABCAKE FACTORY BAYSIDE

302-988-5000

37314 Lighthouse Rd., Rte. 54, Selbyville, DE

Friday, February 28: Jason Lee

Sunday, March 2: Kevin Poole

Wednesday, March 5: True Country

CRAWL STREET TAVERN

443-373-2756

Wicomico St., Downtown O.C.

Friday, February 28: LNJ Session Duo

Saturday, March 1: Groove Joose

FAGER’S ISLAND

410-524-5500

60th St., In The Bay Friday, February 28: Full Circle & DJ Vybe

Saturday, March 1: No Go Romeo & DJ RobCee

Sunday, March 2: Risky Business

Monday, March 3: Bryan Clark

GREENE TURTLE WEST

410-213-1500

Route 611, West OC

Every Wednesday: Bingo w/ Blake

HARBORSIDE

410-213-1846

South Harbor Rd., West End O.C.

DJ ROBCEE Fager’s Island: Saturday, March 1

BEATS BY STYLER Pickles Pub: Sundays & Wednesdays

KEVIN POOLE Crabcake Factory Bayside: Sunday, March 2

STEVE O’BOYLE Purple Moose: Saturday, March 1

DJ BILLY T Harborside: Fridays

BEATS BY WAX Buxy’s Salty Dog: Monday, March 3 Pickles Pub: Tuesdays

BRYAN CLARK Fager’s Island: Monday, March 3

DJ BIGLER Harborside: Saturday, March 1

FULL CIRCLE

Island: Friday, February 28 THE DUNEHOUNDS

CALLING ALL HEROES

Purple Moose: Saturday, march 1

THE EVENT HORIZON

Seacrets: Saturday, March 1

Pub: Saturday, March 1

CECILIA’S FALL

Saturday, March 1

Who’s Where When

Fridays: DJ Billy T

Saturday, February 28:

Cecilia’s Fall & DJ Bigler

Sundays: Opposite Directions

Thursdays:

Dust N Bones Duo

PICKLES PUB

410-289-4891

8th St. & Philadelphia Ave.

Fridays: Beats By DeoGee

Saturday, March 1: The Dunehounds

Sundays: Beats By Styler & After Trade Show Party w/ Cecilia’s Fall

Mondays: Karaoke w/ Wood

Tuesdays: Beats By Wax

March 1

Sunday, March 2 NO GO ROMEO

Fager’s Island: Saturday, March 1

OPPOSITE DIRECTIONS

Sunday, March 2

Wednesdays: Beats By Styler

Thursdays: Beats By Connair

PURPLE MOOSE

410-289-6953

Talbot St. & Boardwalk

Saturday, March 1:

Steve O’Boyle & Calling All Heroes

SEACRETS

410-524-4900

49th St. & Coastal Hwy.

Friday, February 28: Element K Duo & DJ E-State

Saturday, March 1:

The Way Outs Duo, DJ Cruz, DJ C-Miller & The Event

Horizon

Thursday, March 6:

Full Circle Duo & DJ E-State

Fager’s

Pickles

Harborside:

MONKEE PAW

Coins Pub: Saturday,

Harborside:

Pickles Pub:

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, Primanti-styled sandwiches, pierogis, egg-rolls and homemade crab dip. Dry Dock also features a full menu with soups, salads, kick starters, pierogis and craft pizza.

■ CAPTAIN’S TABLE

15th Street and Baltimore Avenue, in The Courtyard by Marriott, Ocean City 410-289-7192, captainstableoc.com

$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar

A local tradition for over 60 years featuring hand cut steaks, premium lobster and perfectly prepared regional seafood. Breakfast daily 7:30-11 a.m. Open daily for dinner: Sunday through Thursday, 4-9 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 4-10 p.m. Happy Hour, seven days a week, 4-6 p.m.

■ COINS PUB & RESTAURANT

28th Street Plaza and Coastal Highway, Ocean City 410-289-3100, www.coinspuboc.com

$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar

American style local restaurant serving seafood, steaks and chefs specials. Check out the off season weekday specials. Early bird; daily, 2-5:30 p.m. Sunday’s early bird specials, all day and all night. Happy Hour; daily, 2-5:30 p.m. with food and drink specials. 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, 410-289-3322, 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.

■ HARBOR WATCH

806 S. Atlantic Avenue, Ocean City 410-289-5121, www.harborwatchrestaurant.com

$$-$$$ | Reservations | Kids’ Menu | Full bar

Celebrating our 40th anniversary with fresh seafood, an award-winning raw bar, mouthwatering steaks and the best view of the Ocean City Inlet and Assateague Island. Open all March, Thursday through Sunday; Happy Hour: Thursday and Sunday, all night long featuring $4 all beer, $8 crushes, $10 select apps, $6 glass of select wine. Call for banquet and large-party details.

■ PICKLES PUB

706 Philadelphia Ave., Ocean City, 410-289-4891, 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 410-2892525, 32palm.com

$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar

Elevated cuisine, locally sourced ingredients and allocated spirits are prominently featured in our lounge and dining room. Open year-round for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Routinely updated menus with the highest quality local ingredients for fresh seafood any time of the year!

■ THE BONFIRE

71st Street, Coastal Hwy., Ocean City, 410-5247171, thebonfirerestaurant.com

Celebrating 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, 410-723-4665, 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, 443-664-5693, 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

91st to 146th streets

■ 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 mouthwatering seafood specialties, traditional Italian pasta dishes, apps, soups and salads. Full bar with large local craft beer selection.

■ CAROUSEL OCEANFRONT HOTEL & CONDOS 118th Street, Ocean City 800-641-0011, www.carouselhotel.com

The Carousel Oceanfront Resort offers a family friendly casual dining experience with their Reef 118 restaurant. Offering dinner Thursday through Saturday from 5-9 p.m., featuring AYCE Crab legs. Serving breakfast on Fridays and Saturdays from 8 a.m. Their new "Go for 2" happy hour features $10 appetizers as a buy one get one free. $1 oysters during all open hours.

■ THE CRAB BAG

13005 Coastal Highway Ocean City, 410-2503337, thecrabbag.com

$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar

Featuring consistent hot steamed crabs, eat in or carryout. The Crab Bag is also an Eastern Shore style seafood house specializing in preparing and serving the biggest and the best blue crabs available. The extensive menu promises something for everyone. Winter hours, Friday-Sunday, open 11 a.m.

■ CRABCAKE FACTORY USA

120th Street, oceanside, Ocean City, 410-2504900, crabcakefactoryusa.com

Full-service family restaurant, carry-out and sports bar. Outside seating available. Menu selections include prime rib, chicken Chesapeake, steamed shrimp, beer battered fish, real Philly cheesesteaks, burgers, and a kids menu. Casual attire, full liquor bar, no reservations. Open Year Round. World-Famous Crabcakes are served all day starting at 8 a.m. and can be packed on ice for you while you are eating breakfast.

■ 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 full-service 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.

FENWICK ISLAND

■ CRABCAKE FACTORY BAYSIDE

Route 54, Fenwick Island, DE, 302-988-5000, CCFBayside.com

Same award-winning crab cakes and bloody marys. Enjoy waterfront dining. Full-service family restaurant, carry-out & sports bar. Outside seating available. Open daily year-round. Menu selections include crab cakes, prime rib, Philly-style cheese steaks, various seafood, kids menu plus full breakfast menu.

■ DIRTY HARRY’S

100 Coastal Highway, Fenwick Island, DE, 302-539-

3020, Beach-net.com/dirtyharrys

$ | Kids’ Menu | Full bar

Don’t let the name fool you, the food is home cooking at its finest. Owned and operated by Ginny Swann and family for 19 years. Popular for the breakfast but getting rave reviews for lunch and dinner, too.

■ NANTUCKETS

Route 1, Fenwick Island, DE, 302-539-2607, nantucketsrestaurant.com

Serving the beach great food and spirits for over 30 years. David and Janet Twining will wow you with the finest foods and drinks in the area. You’ll be pleasantly surprised by what one of the coast’s finest dining establishments has in store for guests. Everything here is a house specialty.

■ TWINING’S LOBSTER SHANTY (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.

OCEAN PINES

■ CLUBHOUSE BAR AND GRILLE

100 Clubhouse Drive, Ocean Pines 410-641-7222, Oceanpinesgolf.org/dining

$$ | Full bar

Indoor and outdoor dining with sweeping views of the 18th green and pond, the Clubhouse Bar and Grille serves freshly prepared breakfast and lunch items with a full bar menu.

■ OCEAN PINES YACHT CLUB

1 Mumford Landing Road, Ocean Pines 410-6417222, www.OPYachtclub.com

$$-$$$ | Full bar

The Ocean Pines Yacht Club offers casual coastal cuisine for lunch and dinner in a beautiful bayfront setting. Fresh seafood, signature drinks, live music and more.

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 410390-3914, cantinalosagaves.com

$$ | Kid’s menu | Full bar

Ocean City’s newest Mexican restaurant and bar. Offering delicious and generous portions of the tastiest traditional and not so traditional #MexicanEats you have ever tried. Open daily at 11 a.m. Serving food until 9 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday. Bar open til 11 p.m.

■ DUMSER’S DAIRYLAND

West Ocean City: Route 50 east; Boardwalk locations: 501 S. Philadelphia Ave., 49th Street, 123rd Street, Ocean City, dumsersdairyland.com

This classic ice cream shop is a tradition for many families. Voted O.C.’s “Best Ice Cream” for the past 20 years, Dumser’s is celebrating decades of serving the shore, and the ‘40s-style décor takes you back in time. With locations throughout Ocean City, treating your tastebuds to this signature homemade ice cream is easy. The 49th and 124th streets locations offer vast lunch and dinner menus (breakfast too at 124th) in addition to a wide variety of ice cream treats.

■ GREENE TURTLE WEST

Route 611, West Ocean City, 410-213-1500

Proudly serving West Ocean City since January 1999, The Greene Turtle features a beautiful 80seat dining room, large bar area with 54 TVs with stereo sound and game room with pool tables. With an exciting menu, The Greene Turtle is sure to please with delicious sizzling steaks, jumbo lump crab cakes, raw bar, homemade salads and more. Live entertainment, Keno, Turtle apparel, kids menu, carry-out.

■ HARBORSIDE BAR & GRILL

12841 Harbor Rd., West Ocean City, 410-2131846, weocharborside.com

$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar

Home of the original Orange Crush drink with an extensive menu offers a wide variety of appetizers, fresh seafood, steak & pasta entrees, as well as juicy burgers and sandwiches. Whether seeking a full dining experience or just a crush or two, the team will be sure to take excellent care of you and yours. Monday-Wednesday: 11 a.m.-9 p.m.; Thursday: 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Friday-Saturday: 11 a.m.-11 p.m.; Sunday: 11 a.m.-9 p.m.

Festival features Chester, Messer

(Feb. 28, 2025) A highlight of the 9th Annual Ocean City Film Festival is the return of two local all-stars with their film, The Biggest Little Farm.

Director John Chester and Producer Erica Messer, both graduates of Stephen Decatur High School, will be live on stage sharing behind-the-scenes commentary on Sunday, March 9, during “Family Fun Day at the Movies” at the Ocean City Performing Arts Center.

Tickets to the movie are $20 in advance and $25 at the door, with children 14 and under admitted for free with a paid adult. Tickets are included with the 4Day Film Festival pass and the one-day Sunday pass. Passes are available at OCMDFilmFestival.com.

The Biggest Little Farm is a featurelength film that chronicles the epic eight-year story of Apricot Lane Farms, the regenerative farm Chester and his wife Molly started in 2011. The movie has a spin-off book and will soon debut as a new TV series, with trailers screening at the Film Festival event at the PAC.

As young adults, both Chester and Messer were active in the theater and communications departments at SDHS, leading them to award-winning careers in film.

Chester is the director of The Biggest Little Farm, a film about his journey to establish and run a sustainable farm in California. The great-grandson of the late Dr. Francis Townsend, Chester was born in Baltimore but spent his early childhood on Talbot St. in downtown Ocean City above what was Fishers Pharmacy.

Chester graduated from SDHS in 1990. Inspired by teachers Gwendolyn Lehman and Terry Sterner, he started the high school TV station and created a local weekly news show, OC Live, produced entirely by local teens, that developed a strong following. Lehman never had any doubt that Chester would do something great.

“John knew who he was from day one,” Lehman said. “He was very focused, very mature, very outgoing, very enterprising. He was an enormous help to me as a teacher.”

Chester lived and worked on two different farms in Berlin during his early 20s with his brother, Deeley Chester, before moving into a career as an Emmy-award-winning filmmaker and television director.

Messer is the executive producer of

The Biggest Little Farm. Born and raised in Washington D.C., she spent her summers playing on the beach at 123rd St. in Ocean City until her parents, Jack and Karen Cramer, moved

the family to the resort year round. She and her brothers attended Ocean City Elementary, Berlin Middle School, and Stephen Decatur High School.

Lehman began encouraging Messer at SDHS when she was still too young to join the theater department. Her brothers – and also John Chester and Messer’s future husband, Kenny Messer — were already involved, so she hung around and helped out, “holding the book” for the actors.

“She basically made herself my assistant,” Lehman said. “Erica was always very mature and very responsible and has a quiet authority. She was always much more interested in being behind the scenes than out in front.”

After graduating from Salisbury University, Messer and her husband, Kenny, relocated to Los Angeles to work in the entertainment industry. She started in current drama at FOX before joining the writers’ rooms of series like Party of Five, Alias, The OC, Charmed, and Criminal Minds. Messer is currently the Showrunner/Executive Producer of Criminal Minds and is developing many projects for cable and streaming platforms.

Erica Messer

John Chester

Travel photo contest deadline in two weeks

(Feb. 28, 2025) The deadline to enter vacation photos and vote for the best is March 15, 4 p.m. in the Global Travel Photo Contest. The contest is a program of the nonprofit Art League of Ocean City

with a $1,000 grand prize sponsored by the White Marlin Open.

“The Global Travel Photo Contest encourages participants to capture and share the awe-inspiring moments that

Unique apt to describe surfers

By Dave Dalkiewicz Contributing Writer

(Feb. 28, 2025) Are surfers different than other people?

connect people globally, whether through the thrill of sportfishing or the art of photography,” Thaler said. “It’s a fun way to share your best vacation photos and support the arts in our community.

“You can then ask your family and friends to vote for your photo at $1 per vote,” she continued, “because those votes will determine who wins the $1,000 prize.”

are now being accepted through March 15, 2025 at https://www.gogophotocontest.com/globaltravelphotocontestaloc

The runner-up will receive a photo retreat opportunity and an Art League membership.

The winning entries will also be recognized at the Ocean City Center for the Arts during the free First Friday opening reception on April 4.

This could be argued either way and for some an interesting topic. Surfing is an activity that’s like a lot of others. It’s good exercise. It’s done outside and takes some time to learn the intricacies of how it’s done. Surfers can be regarded as athletes, sportsmen and even artists. It’s probably safe to say that surfing is unique and that surfers in turn are unique as well. There was a time when surfers were not thought very well of. They were a bad element and didn’t fit into the better forms of society. Some of this thought continues in stereotypical fashion but as time has progressed we see that surfers can come from all walks of life. Many

surfers are teachers, lawyers, doctors, tradesmen, male, female, fathers, mothers, students and are all respectable. This might refute the idea of difference but still retain the uniqueness because they are surfers as well as other types of people. For one thing surfing is done on the water, in the ocean, where and when quality waves can be found. Waves and their quality are governed by nature. Wind over the water, bottom contours, swell direction, and tides are all elements of nature, so nature creates the playing field for surfing, and it’s always changing. A dedicated surfer will almost always be aware of these factors. This can make the surfer, not so much different, but certainly unique. Herein might be the answer to the question that was first proposed. One way or another surfers are not necessarily different but they are unique.

- Dave Dalkiewicz is the owner of Ocean Atlantic Surf Shop in Ocean City

The contest is easy to enter by uploading digital photos. Photographers may enter as many times as they like with a $10 non-refundable entry fee per photo. Votes are $1 per vote. Entries and votes

CROSSWORD

The contest is open to all global travel photography. Artist must be 18 years or older and submit original artwork. More information is also available at OCart.org or by calling 410-524-9433.

ARIES – Mar 21/Apr 20

People are not mind readers, Aries. If you want others to know how you are feeling, you are going to have to give them some sort of indication this week.

TAURUS – Apr 21/May 21

You may discover that you enjoy a great deal of support from other people right now, Taurus. This includes those who you didn’t realize are on your side.

GEMINI – May 22/Jun 21

Even though it can be challenging at certain times, try to see the positives in every situation, Gemini. This may make it easier to overlook some of their faults.

CANCER – Jun 22/Jul 22

Try to stretch beyond your comfort zone and limits this week, Cancer. This likely will involve meeting new people and asking a lot of questions along the way. You will develop and grow.

LEO – Jul 23/Aug 23

Leo, this is a great time to communicate with friends and socialize. Put aside any worries and engage in lighthearted activities that will enable you to laugh and smile.

VIRGO – Aug 24/Sept 22

The more peaceful and understanding you are this week, Virgo, the more you will get along with the other people in your life. Be the diplomat instead of a warrior this time around.

LIBRA – Sept 23/Oct 23

Libra, this is a good week for cleaning up your space and devising a better organizational system at work. You might be so good at cleaning up that you forget where you put things.

SCORPIO – Oct 24/Nov 22

Scorpio, do not feel like you have to change your personality to fit certain situations this week. Just be yourself. Those who want to be around you will naturally gravitate to you.

SAGITTARIUS – Nov 23/Dec 21

A great deal of information is available if you simply request it, Sagittarius. Word your request in a way that guarantees cooperation from others.

CAPRICORN – Dec 22/Jan 20

Capricorn, you are so focused on a personal project that you may completely forget about the needs of others. Make a change this week to be more receptive to others’ needs.

AQUARIUS – Jan 21/Feb 18

Aquarius, take a look at the bigger picture to identify what you will need for the next few months. Then discuss your ideas with others to see if what you have planned is plausible.

PISCES – Feb 19/Mar 20

Your good mood will be elevated for much of the week, Pisces. Don’t fret about a little hiccup along the way. You will bounce back quickly with a smile on your face.

FOOD FOR THOUGHT

Pistachio pesto a fun creation

By Deborah Lee Walker Contributing Writer

(Feb. 28, 2025) When one pursues perfection, consider the examination of the “question” versus the “answer.” Uncertainty brings about query which is the basis for achieving knowledge and redefines success. And it is this process of perseverance is what distinguishes one chef from another.

That being said, Genoa the capital region of Liguria, is renowned for its historic contributions to the field of gastronomy. This traditional Mediterranean style of cooking is based on simple ingredients; the key is combining them to form a symphony of unsurpassed flavors.

Pesto, the pride of Genoa, is a thick sauce pairs beautifully with pasta and does not require cooking. The basic ingredients are olive oil, garlic, parmesan cheese, basil, and pine nuts.

Basil, another key component of pesto has a long history outside of the culinary world. The Greek physician Dioscorides prescribed basil for headaches. Pliny the Elder, a Roman author, thought it was an aphrodisiac and it was given to horses and donkeys to encourage mating.

There are many varieties of pinenuts, but the two principal types are Italian

and Asian. Italian pine nuts are long and slender and have a delicate nutty flavor, whereas Asian pine nuts are more rounded, more pungent and oilier. The Italian version is more expensive but worth the added cost.

The essence of pesto should have a complex mingling of sweet, salty, and pungent flavors. Many legendary recipes are subject to debate and pesto is no exception.

With so many variations and considerations, the most common mistake is adding too much garlic. Garlic typically plays a supportive role and should not steal the show. American garlic is much stronger than its Italian counterpart and should be used accordingly.

Pesto is a classic dish that can be enjoyed throughout the year. Pistachio pesto adheres to the traditional teachings of Liguria and at the same time incorporates a refreshing twist.

Pesto made with pistachios is much more cost effective than the conventional pine nuts. Pistachios adds to the beautification; the natural green color enhances the overall pesto theme. Fresh lemon juice adds acidity and brightens the richness of the nuts.

Pistachio pesto and pasta with a light dusting of cheese can be served either warm or cold. Adding the pesto to grilled chicken or fish is a delicious play on contrast of flavors. Steamy, hot soups with a

dollop of pistachio pesto adds dimension and innovation.

Pistachio Pesto

Ingredients

2 cups young, tender basil

½ cup grated Parmigiano Reggiano ½ cup extra virgin olive oil

¼ cup shelled pistachios

2 cloves garlic juice of one lemon kosher salt and freshly black ground pepper to taste

1. Place the pistachios in a tea towel and rub together. You want to remove the skins of the pistachios.

2. Place the basil, cheese, pistachios, garlic, and lemon juice in a high-speed food processor and pulse a couple of times to start breaking down the pesto.

3. With food processor on high speed, slowly drizzle in the olive oil. Puree until smooth and creamy.

4. Taste pesto and add salt and pepper to taste.

Secret Ingredient – Perseverence It’s not that I ‘m so smart, it’s just that I stay with problems longer.

- Albert Einstein

Beautiful multi-story lobby, circular staircase & elevator access gorgeous condo in highly sought after community. Open floor plan, large gourmet kitchen with granite countertops, new SS appliances, 42”

COMMUNITY/SCHOOLS

SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH

BULL DONATES TO AGH

The Bull on the Beach recently presented a check for $25,000 to the Atlantic General Hospital Foundation. The donation was made as part of the Bull on the Beach’s sponsorship of the foundation’s annual Penguin Swim event, in which they have been the Legacy Sponsor for 31 consecutive years. To date, Bull on the Beach and their fundraising initiatives have raised over $450,000 for Atlantic General Hospital. Pictured, front from left, are Steven Weisenberg, Bull on the Beach; Toni Keiser, AGH vice president of public relations; Laura Powell, AGH Foundation community relations officer; Michele Knopp, Bull on the Beach; and Thomas Knopp, Bull on the Beach; and, back, Matthew Saloney, Bull on the Beach; Michael Cylc, AGH Foundation treasurer; Jessica Jersey, AGH Foundation donor relations officer; and Hillary Mozeik, AGH Foundation assistant.

SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH

OC ELKS LODGE CHARITIES

The Ocean City Elks Lodge #2645 gave $208,000 to local charities in 2024. Charities include most 501(c)(3) organizations. Pictured are the Charity Committee James Flaig and committee members Susan Caldwell, Carolyn Kuhn, Charlie Loane and Bruce Martinek.

SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH

WPS ELKS ESSAY

Worcester Preparatory School’s Ocean City Elks Lodge #2645 essay contest winners were recently recognized. This year's theme for the Elks National Great Americanism essay contest was "What Does Patriotism Mean to Me?" Student Freddy Hertrich won first place; Abigail Kratzner secured second place; and Grant Messner won third place in the fifth grade division. In the 6th Grade division, Maddie Bobenko won second place. In the seventh grade division, Ronit Poddar also earned seconnd place. In the eighth grade division, Sophia Nguyen achieved first place, and Elle Wilsey received third place. The students are pictured with Head of Lower School Dr. Sara Timmons, Gretchen and Allen Meyer of Ocean City Elks Lodge #2645 and Head of Middle School Jake Perry.

CHAMBER SPEAKS AT LIONS

Amy Thompson, executive director of the Greater Ocean City Chamber of Commerce, recently spoke at an Ocean City Lions Club meeting. Established in the 1960s, the chamber has over 700 members that support businesses in and around Ocean City by providing 'leadership, inspiration, education, and development opportunities. Pictured are Thompson, left, and O C Lions Club President Scott Stark.

ROTARY VISITS SCHOOLS

SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH

SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH

Cliff Berg and Mike Simcock, pictured above left, and Margaret Mudron, pictured above right, of the Ocean City-Berlin Rotary Club visited their adopted PreK-3 classes at Showell, Ocean City and Buckingham Elementary to decorate Valentine cookies with the students. The club meets the first and third Wednesday of the month at 6 p.m. at Don's Seafood at the South Gate of Ocean Pines.

Calendar

Submit calendar items to: editor@oceancitytoday.net. Submission deadline is 5 p.m. Monday, the week of publication. Local submissions have priority. Area event listings are subject to space availability.

Fri., Feb. 28

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

ARTSY HOMESCHOOLERS

Worcester County Library - Snow Hill Branch, 307 N. Washington St., 11 a.m. Every fourth Friday, come for an art project that includes everything from painting, writing, crafting and more. For ages 6-18 years. 410-632-3495, www.worcesterlibrary.org

2025 OC CHAMBER ANNUAL AWARDS CELEBRATION - 75TH ANNIVERSARY

Roland E. Powell Convention Center, 4001 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, 6-10 p.m. This year the theme is Diamond in honor of the Chamber’s 75th anniversary. Cost is $125. https://www.ococean.com/event/2025-oc-chamber-ann ual-awards-celebration-75th-anniversary/2196/, 443-664-3052

KIGHTS OF COLUMBUS BINGO

Fridays - Knights of Columbus, 9901 Coastal Highway, behind St. Luke’s Church. Doors open at 5 p.m., bingo starts at 6:30 p.m. Light snacks available before bingo and at intermission. 410524-7994

Sat., March 1

INDOOR FLEA MARKET AND BAKE SALE

Bethany United Methodist Church, 8648 Stephen Decatur Highway, Berlin, 8-11 a.m. Vendors, to make a reservation, contact 443-614-2261, fcbumc21811@gmail.com.

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

BOOK SIGNING WITH ANNA DOLLE BUSHNELL

Ocean City Life-Saving Museum, 813 S. Atlantic Ave., 11 a.m.-1 p.m. “Images of America: Dolle’s Candyland, Inc. Book” includes more than 200 photographs of Dolle’s 110 year existence on the board-

walks of Ocean City and Rehoboth Beach, DE. www.ocmuseum.org

ALL-YOU-CAN-EAT FRIED CHICKEN DINNER

Mt. Pleasant United Methodist Church, 36540 Mount Pleasant Road, Willards, 11 a.m. Includes vegetables, beverages and desserts. Cost to dine in is $17 for adults, $8.50 for children and free to those 5 years and younger. Cost for carryout is $15. 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., March 2

A.J. CROCE - HEART OF THE ETERNAL TOUR

Ocean City Performing Arts Center, 4001 Coastal Highway, Ocean City. 7 p.m. Celebrating A.J. Croce’s music and those of his father, Jim Croce. Tickets cost $45/$55.

https://www.etix.com/ticket/p/514788 80/ajcroce-heart-of-the-eternal-tourocean-city-oc-performing-arts-center

ALL-YOU-CAN-EAT BREAKFAST

American Legion Synepuxent Post 166, 2308 Philadelphia Ave., Ocean City, 8-11 a.m. Menu includes eggs, pancakes, bacon, ham, sausage, hash browns, coffee, orange juice and gravy and biscuits. Cost is $15.

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., March 3

LITTLE LEARNERS PROGRAM

Museum of Ocean City, 217 S. Baltimore Ave., 10-11 a.m. John “Laughing Wolf”

Moore will teach his Native American heritage through the music of his drum and dance. Registration requested: ocmuseum.org. 410-289-4991

STORY TIME: WILDLIFE

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 conversation practice and a short lesson prepared by an ESL instructor. 410-524-1818, www.worcesterlibrary.org

GREAT BOOKS DISCUSSION

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 2:30 p.m. The group is reading from Book 6 of the Great Conversations Anthology. The focus will be on “Mario and the Magician” by Thomas Mann. 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

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. Let’s play Warhammer. Use the library’s armies or bring your own. Tutorials and demos will be available, so novice and veteran players alike are welcome. For ages 12-18 years. 410-641-0650

DR. SEUSS CRAFT: OOBLECK

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 4:30 p.m. Create a substance found only in a Dr. Seuss book. Is it a liquid? Is it a solid? Let’s find out. Be ready to get messy. For ages 6-11 years. 410-208-4014, www.worcesterlibrary.org

T.O.P.S. OF BERLIN - GROUP #169

Atlantic General Hospital, Conference Room 1, 9733 Healthway Drive, Berlin, 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

WOMEN OF WORCESTER COUNTY

Worcester County Library - Snow Hill Branch, 307 N. Washington St., 5:30 p.m. The Worcester County Historical Society will present this program for Women’s History Month. 410-632-3495, www.worcesterlibrary.org

BRIDGE

Mondays - Ocean City 50plus Center, 104 41st Street, Ocean City, 12:30-3:30 p.m. Reserve a spot: Tish, 410-8043971. www.Worcoa.org/oceancity

DELMARVA WOMEN’S A CAPELLA CHORUS Mondays - Ocean Pines Community Center, 239 Ocean Parkway, 6:00-8:00 p.m. All ladies who love to sing invited. Mary, 410-629-9383 or Carol, 302-2427062.

OVEREATER’S ANONYMOUS

Mondays - Worcester County LibraryOcean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 7-8 p.m. No dues or fees. 410-459-9100

Tues., March 4

STORY TIME: DR. SEUSS

Worcester County Library - Pocomoke Branch, 301 Market St., 10:30 a.m. Songs, stories and crafts. For ages 0-5 years. 410-957-0878, www.worcesterlibrary.org

STORY TIME

Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 10:30 a.m. Featuring seasonal themes designed to support early literacy skills with stories, songs and finger plays. Geared toward ages 0-5 years. 410-641-0650, www.worcesterlibrary.org

BABY TIME

Worcester County Library - Snow Hill Branch, 307 N. Washington St., 10:30 a.m. Songs, rhymes and stories. Stay after to socialize with other families. For ages 0-2 years. 410-632-3495, www.worcesterlibrary.org

OC KNITTING GROUP

Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 10:30 a.m. Do you love to knit or crochet? Bring whatever project you happen to be working on. 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 any questions and feel free to show your plants as well. 410-208-4014, www.worcesterlibrary.org

PLANTING FOR POLLINATORS

Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 2 p.m.

Learn about plants for pollinators and other wildlife that help keep our water clean. Take a look at invasive plants and their native alternatives. 410-524-1818, www.worcesterlibrary.org

COMIC BOOK CLUB

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 4:30 p.m. Learn about comics and create your own. Each month will feature a different graphic novel author. No experience required. For ages 6-11 years. 410-2084014, www.worcesterlibrary.org

SHROVE TUESDAY PANCAKE AND SAUSAGE DINNER

Stevenson United Methodist Church, 123 N. Main St., Berlin, 4:30-6 p.m. The dinner is all-you-can-eat. Cost is $7 for adults, $5 for children and free to those 5 years and younger. Carry-out available. Proceeds benefit Stevenson’s Children and Youth.

PANCAKE SUPPER

Whaleyville United Methodist, 11716 Sheppards Crossing Road, Whaleyville, 5-7 p.m. Supper will include pancakes, sausage and assorted beverages. A love offering will be taken at the door to benefit the Youth Group.

MILLENNIAL-ISH: SHOW & TELL

Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 5:30 p.m. Have any collectables or hobbies? Bring them in and meet new friends also in their 20s-40s who share your passions or learn something new. 410-5241818, 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., March 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.

COMPUTER AND INTERNET BASICS

Worcester County Library - Pocomoke Branch, 301 Market St. Call to make an appointment for one-on-one assistance: 410-957-0878. www.worcesterlibrary.org

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.

PUZZLE SWAP

Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 1-5 p.m. Bring a gently used puzzle and swap it for a new-to-you puzzle. Don’t have a puzzle but still want one? That’s OK too. All puzzles must be in their original box. 410-641-0650, www.worcesterlibrary.org

DIABETES SUPPORT GROUP

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 1:30-2:30 p.m. Group provides discussion and education on the topic of diabetes. Patti Yocubik, 410-208-9761, pyocubik@atlanticgeneral.org

KICKSTART KINDERGARTEN

Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 4:30 p.m. A special six-session series built to help preschoolers get ready for kindergarten. Families will also receive a snack and tips for continuing at home. For ages 3-5 years. 410-641-0650

KIWANIS CLUB MEETING

Wednesdays - Ocean Pines Community Center, 239 Ocean Parkway, 8 a.m. Doors open at 7:30 a.m. Last Wednesday of the month meetings are offsite and information can be found on the website and Facebook. www.kiwanisofopoc.org.

Thurs., March 6

OCEAN CITY FILM FESTIVAL

Art League of Ocean City, 502 94th St., 9 a.m.-11 p.m. Tickets $23. This annual event attracts international, national

and regional artists working in film. Film showings and events held throughout the area. Tickets: https://ocmdfilmfestival.com/. 410-524-9433

FREE 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: DR. SEUSS

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 10:30 a.m. Featuring songs, dancing and crafts. For ages 2-5 years. 410-208-4014, www.worcesterlibrary.org

PLAY TIME

Worcester County Library - Snow Hill Branch, 307 N. Washington St., 10:30 a.m. Join in for a variety of activities and toys. Play and socialize with other families. For ages 2-5 years. 410-632-3495, www.worcesterlibrary.org

CHESS CLUB

Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 10:30 a.m. Looking for a quiet place to meet new friends and play some chess? Bring your boards. All are welcome. 410-5241818, www.worcesterlibrary.org

POCOMOKE BOOK CLUB: ‘THE PECAN MAN’ BY CASSIE DANDRIDGE SELLECK

Worcester County Library - Pocomoke Branch, 301 Market St., 2 p.m. Join in for a lively discussion each month. Stop by the Pocomoke Branch to pick up a copy in advance. 410-957-0878, www.worcesterlibrary.org

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.

ONGOING EVENTS

MARCH INSPIRATION CHALLENGE Snow Hill library, 307 N. Washington St., during March. Art, photography or poetry competition for all ages. Pieces will be displayed in the library for viewing. The theme is “Stormy.” Due by March 26. 410-632-3495

COMMUNITY JOURNAL: TELL HER STORY

Pocomoke library, 301 Market St. Drop in anytime during March and write a story in the community journal about a woman who has inspired you and share your thoughts and hopes for a better future. 410-957-0878

FREE IN-PERSON TAX PREPARATION

Takes place through April 15. By appointment only, call 443-584-5661 or online at the following sites.

• Mondays at the Ocean Pines library,

www.tinyurl.com/t8km843p

• Tuesdays at the Berlin library, www.tinyurl.com/2rvvha2y

• Saturdays at the Ocean City library, www.tinyurl.com/3bt6ujx7. The program is open to taxpayers of all ages. AARP membership is not required. Find sites near you: aarpfoundation.org/taxaide.

BUS TRIP TO PHILADELPHIA FLOWER SHOW

Takes place at the Philadelphia Convention Center on March 1. Depart from the Ocean Pines Community Center at 8:30 a.m. Featuring a day of stunning floral gardens, unique plants and artistic displays. Enjoy shopping, live music, entertainment and learning opportunities. Cost is $80 and includes transportation and show ticket. Reservations: 410-641-7052.

PHILLIES VS DODGERS BUS TRIP

Bus departs from Ocean Pines Community Center at 8:30 a.m. on April 6 for Citizens Bank Park. Game time is 1:35 p.m. Cost is $85 and includes transportation and ticket. Tickets: Ocean Pines Recreation & Parks, 410-6417052.

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. 410-9570878

TEENY ARTS

Snow Hill library, 307 N. Washington St., during February. A themed craft program available in the teen section all month long. February Teeny Art is “Post-It Art Show.” For ages 12-18 years. 410-632-3495

TEEN TIMESHARE

Ocean Pines library, 11107 Cathell Road, during February, 3 p.m. to close. Drop in and create a seasonal craft or study for a test in your own teen area. For ages 1218 years. 410-208-4014

FEBRUARY INSPIRATION CHALLENGE

Snow Hill library, 307 N. Washington St., during February. Art, photography or poetry competition for all ages. Pieces will be displayed in the library for viewing and voting by age bracket. The theme is “Fantasy.” Due by Feb. 20. 410632-3495

Crossword answers from page 34

2025 OC Today-Dispatch 39

Maintenance

KITE LOFT MANAGER

Personnel Person Needed for condo in OC.

Full time, year-round. Light duty, family atmosphere. Please call SeaTime Condo, 135th St. for application, 410-250-2262.

SPEEDWORLD Small Engine Mechanic. Year-round.

Wage starts at $15/hr & up based on experience. Benefits available. 443-754-1047

If you are looking for a yearround job that is Fun, Adventurous and Rewarding then look no further. The Kite Loft is seeking an outstanding, outgoing, optimistic individual to work in a high volume, fun retail environment as a Store Manager. Prior Retail Management experience required. Must be able to work weekends and nights. Excellent salary and rewards to the successful. Please email your resume to: info@kiteloft.com

HELP WANTED

Year-round, full time, RENTAL AGENT for established local company. Must work weekends and have own transportation. Looking for someone that wants a career with opportunity to do sales on the side. Call for details. Resort Rentals/ OCVacations, 410-524-0295

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

YEAR-ROUND RENTAL Berlin area 2BR/1BA APT. L/R, Eat-in-Kitchen, W/D, Courtyard. Pets allowed if approved. $2,250 per month. Includes utilities (Cable, Internet, Elec. Water, Heat & Air). Security deposit req. ($2,250.) Call 443-513-4678.

SEASONAL RENTAL

Efficiency condo with pool available Mid-May - MidSept. $8500. A/C, parking, 2 people occupancy. Resort Rentals/ OCVacations, 410-524-0295

FOR RENT

YR TOWNHOME

3BR, 2 1/2BA. Furnished, modern appliances, washer and dryer. Newport Bay Dr., Bayside on canal. $2,300 monthly, no pets. Call 410-848-1767. Dougherty35@aol.com

Seeking YR & Seasonal Rentals! Call Howard Martin Realty 410-352-5555.

COMMERCIAL

Commercial Space

Available

South Gate Ocean Pines

1500 sq. ft. Retail/Office 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.

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

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

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 MISC./OTHER

We spoke of sorrow, My mistakes and surrender, Those last few moments. He knew, my dear friends! With a smile, He knew!

BWW Law Group, LLC

6003 Executive Blvd., Suite 101

Rockville, MD 20852 (301) 961-6555

SUBSTITUTE

TRUSTEES' SALE OF REAL PROPERTY AND

ANY IMPROVEMENTS THEREON

10116 MCALLISTER ROAD BERLIN, MD 21811

Under a power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust dated December 22, 2008, recorded in Liber 5182, Folio 470 among the Land Records of Worcester County, MD, with an original principal balance of $322,500.00, default having occurred under the terms thereof, the Sub. Trustees will sell at public auction at the Circuit Court for Worcester County, at the Court House Door, One W. Market St., Snow Hill, MD 21863, on

MARCH 18, 2025 AT 4:05 PM

ALL THAT FEE SIMPLE LOT OF GROUND, together with any buildings or improvements thereon located in Worcester County, MD and more fully described in the aforesaid Deed of Trust.

The property, and any improvements thereon, will be sold in an "as is" condition and subject to conditions, restrictions and agreements of record affecting the same, if any, and with no warranty of any kind.

Terms of Sale: A deposit of $16,000 in the form of certified check, cashier's check or money order will be required of the purchaser at time and place of sale. Balance of the purchase price, together with interest on the unpaid purchase money at the current rate contained in the Deed of Trust Note, or any modifications thereto, from the date of sale to the date funds are received by the Sub. Trustees, payable in cash within ten days of final ratification of the sale by the Circuit Court. There will be no abatement of interest due to the purchaser in the event additional funds are tendered before settlement. TIME IS OF THE ESSENCE FOR THE PURCHASER. Adjustment of all real property taxes, including agricultural taxes, if applicable, and any and all public and/or private charges or assessments, to the extent such amounts survive foreclosure sale, including water/sewer, ground rent and front foot benefit charges, to be adjusted to date of sale and thereafter assumed by purchaser. Purchaser is responsible for any recapture of homestead tax credit. All transfer taxes and recordation taxes shall be paid by Purchaser. The purchaser shall be responsible for the payment of the ground rent escrow, if required. Condominium fees and/or homeowners association dues, if any, shall be assumed by the purchaser from the date of sale. Purchaser is responsible for obtaining physical possession of the property, and assumes risk of loss or damage to the property from the date of sale. The sale is subject to post-sale audit

of the status of the loan with the loan servicer including, but not limited to, determination of whether the borrower entered into any repayment agreement, reinstated or paid off the loan prior to the sale. In any such event, this sale shall be null and void, and the Purchaser's sole remedy, in law or equity, shall be the return of the deposit without interest. If purchaser fails to settle within ten days of ratification, subject to order of court, purchaser agrees that property will be resold and entire deposit retained by Sub. Trustees as liquidated damages for all losses occasioned by the purchaser's default and purchaser shall have no further liability. The purchaser waives personal service of any papers filed in connection with its failure to settle within ten days of ratification and expressly agrees to accept service by first class mail at the address provided by the Purchaser as identified on the Memorandum of Sale. The defaulted purchaser shall not be entitled to any surplus proceeds resulting from said resale even if such surplus results from improvements to the property by said defaulted purchaser. Sub. Trustees will convey either marketable or insurable title. If they cannot deliver one or the other, or if ratification of the sale is denied by the Circuit Court for any reason, the Purchaser's sole remedy, at law or equity, is return of the deposit without interest. (Matter No. 371045-1)

Howard N. Bierman, Carrie M. Ward, et. al., Substitute Trustees

OCD-2/27/3t

JAMES E. CLUBB, JR., ESQ. 108 8th Street Ocean City, Maryland 21842

FORECLOSURE

SALE

VALUABLE IMPROVED REAL ESTATE

21 COASTAL DRIVE BERLIN, MARYLAND 21811

By virtue of a Statement of Lien recorded among the Land Records of Worcester County, Maryland, and pursuant to an Order of the Circuit Court for Worcester County, Maryland in Case No. C-23-CV-25000006, the undersigned Trustee will offer for sale at public auction in front of the property located at 21 Coastal Drive, Berlin, Maryland 21811, on

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 28, 2025 AT 9:00 AM

ALL that certain lot or parcel of land lying and being situate in the Tenth Election District of Worcester County, Maryland, which is more particularly designated as Lot Number 195, in Block P, Section Two, in Mystic Harbour, as shown on the plat entitled Mystic Harbour Subdi-

vision Section Two recorded among the Land Records of Worcester County, Maryland in Plat Book No. 113, folio 33, et seq.

The property will be sold in an "as is" condition and subject to conditions, restrictions and agreements of record affecting the same, with no warranties or guarantees, and will be sold subject to a Deed of Trust recorded among the aforesaid Land Records in Liber No. 7929, folio 118, said Deed of Trust having had an original principal balance of $225,834.00 on February 1, 2021. The Trustee reserves the right to reject any and all bids.

Terms of Sale: A deposit in the amount of Ten Thousand Dollars ($10,000.00) will be required at the time of sale, such deposit to be in a cashier's or bank check, or in other form as the Trustee may determine acceptable, in his sole discretion, with the balance to be paid in cash at time of settlement. The date of settlement shall be fifteen (15) days after final ratification by the Circuit Court for Worcester County, Maryland, time being of the essence; otherwise, the deposit will be forfeited and the property will be resold at the risk and expense of the defaulting purchaser, or in any manner designated by the Trustee; or, without forfeiting deposit, the Seller may exercise any of its legal or equitable rights against the defaulting purchaser. The undersigned reserves the right to waive the deposit requirements as to the purchaser representing the interest of the party secured by the Lien. Taxes, homeowners association dues and wastewater charges will be adjusted to the date of sale and thereafter assumed by the purchaser. All costs of conveyancing, including transfer and recordation taxes, shall be paid by the Purchaser. The Purchaser shall be responsible for obtaining possession of the property. In the event the undersigned is unable to convey marketable title, the sale will be null and void and the Purchaser's sole remedy will be the return of the deposit without interest.

For more information, call: James E. Clubb, Jr. Trustee 410-289-2323

OCD-2/13/3t _________________________________

WILLIAMS, MOORE, SHOCKLEY & HARRISON, LLP

PETER S. BUAS, ESQ. 3509 COASTAL HIGHWAY OCEAN CITY, MD 21842

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE ESTATE NO. 20518

NOTICE IS GIVEN that the Circuit court of City of Alexandria county, Virginia appointed Susan Harris, 5116 Heritage Ln., Alexandria, VA 22311-1347 as the Personal Representative of the Estate of Patricia Ann Harris who died on October 04, 2023 domiciled in Virginia, USA.

The Maryland resident agent for service of process is Peter S. Buas whose address is 3509 Coastal Hwy., Ocean City, MD 21842-3334.

At the time of death, the decedent owned real or leasehold property in the following Maryland counties: Worcester. All persons having claims against the decedent must file their claims with the Register of Wills for Worcester County with a copy to the foreign personal representative on or before the earlier of the following dates: (1) Six months from the date of the decedent’s death; or (2) Two months after the foreign personal representative mails or delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claim within two months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. Claims filed after that date or after a date extended by law will be barred.

Susan Harris 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: February 13, 2025

OCD-2/13/3t

RAYMOND D. COATES JR., ESQ. COATES, COATES, & COATES, P.A.

6200 COASTAL HIGHWAY, SUITE 300 OCEAN CITY, MD 21842

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 20521 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF JANICE HOPE SORIN WAINWRIGHT

Notice is given that Harold Long Wainwright, 13028 N. Shore Rd., Ocean City, MD 21842-9730, was on February 05, 2025 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Janice Hope Sorin Wainwright who died on January 04, 2025, with a will.

Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal representative or the attorney.

All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent’s will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 5th day of August, 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.

Harold Long Wainwright 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: February 13, 2025

OCD-2/13/3t

MUNICIPAL INVESTMENTS,

LLC

C/O KENNY LAW GROUP, LLC Plaintiff vs.

GLENN E SHERMAN, BONNIE GALE SHERMAN, QUAY CONDOMINIUM, WORCESTER COUNTY, MARYLAND AND

All persons having or claiming to have an interest in the property situate and lying in Worcester County and known as 10700 COASTAL HWY, #1005 AND Unknown Owner of the property 10700 COASTAL HWY, #1005 described as follows: Property Tax ID 10-125138 on the Tax Roll of Worcester County, the unknown owner's heirs, devisees, and personal representatives and their or any of their heirs, devisees, executors, administrators, grantees, assigns, or successors in right, title and interest in the property.

Defendants IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF MARYLAND FOR WORCESTER COUNTY CASE NO: C-23-CV-25-000017

ORDER OF PUBLICATION

The object of this proceeding is to secure the foreclosure of all rights of redemption in the following property described below in the State of Maryland, sold by the Collector of Taxes for Worcester County and the State of Maryland to the Plaintiff in this proceeding:

The Complaint states, among other things, that the amounts necessary for redemption have not been paid although more than six (6) months and a day from the date of sale has expired.

It is thereupon this 7th of February, 2025, by the Circuit Court for Worcester County:

ORDERED, That notice be given by the insertion of a copy of this Order in some newspaper having a general circulation in Worcester County once a week for three (3) successive weeks on or before the 3rd day of March, 2025, warning all persons interested in the property to appear in this Court by the 11th day of April, 2025 and redeem the property

described above and answer the Complaint or thereafter a Final Judgment will be entered foreclosing all rights of redemption in the property, and vesting in the Plaintiff a title, free and clear of all encumbrances.

Brian D. Shockley JUDGE

True Copy Test: Susan R. Braniecki Clerk of the Circuit Court Worcester County MD OCD-2/13/3t

MUNICIPAL INVESTMENTS,

LLC

C/O KENNY LAW GROUP, LLC Plaintiff vs. CAROL A WILKINSON, ISLAND AT HIDDEN HARBOUR CONDOMINIUM ASSOCIATION, INC.,

DONNA MILLS, PAUL A. MILLS, WORCESTER COUNTY, MARYLAND AND

All persons having or claiming to have an interest in the property situate and lying in Worcester County and known as 388D ISLAND AT HIDDEN HARBOR #BS 388 AND

Unknown Owner of the property 388D ISLAND AT HIDDEN HARBOR #BS 388 described as follows: Property Tax ID 10-405157 on the Tax Roll of Worcester County, the unknown owner's heirs, devisees, and personal representatives and their or any of their heirs, devisees, executors, administrators, grantees, assigns, or successors in right, title and interest in the property.

Defendants IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF MARYLAND FOR WORCESTER COUNTY CASE NO: C-23-CV-25-000018

ORDER OF

PUBLICATION

The object of this proceeding is to secure the foreclosure of all rights of redemption in the following property described below in the State of Maryland, sold by the Collector of Taxes for Worcester County and the State of Maryland to the Plaintiff in this proceeding:

The Complaint states, among other things, that the amounts necessary for redemption have not been paid although more than six (6) months and a day from the date of sale has expired.

It is thereupon this 8th of February, 2025 by the Circuit Court for Worcester County: ORDERED, That notice be given by the insertion of a copy of this Order in some newspaper having a general circulation in Worcester County once a week for three (3) successive weeks on or before the 3rd day of March, 2025, warning all persons interested in the property to appear in this Court by the 11th day of April, 2025 and redeem the property described above and answer the Complaint or thereafter a Final Judgment will be entered foreclosing

all rights of redemption in the property, and vesting in the Plaintiff a title, free and clear of all encumbrances.

Brian D. Shockley JUDGE True Copy Test: Susan R. Braniecki Clerk of the Circuit Court Worcester County MD OCD-2/13/3t

MUNICIPAL

INVESTMENTS, LLC

C/O KENNY LAW GROUP, LLC Plaintiff vs. BAY ROSE, LLC, BAYSIDE KEYS CONDOMINIUM, WORCESTER COUNTY, MARYLAND AND

All persons having or claiming to have an interest in the property situate and lying in Worcester County and known as 725 BRADLEY RD, UNIT A AND Unknown Owner of the property 725 BRADLEY RD, UNIT A described as follows: Property Tax ID 10-769179 on the Tax Roll of Worcester County, the unknown owner's heirs, devisees, and personal representatives and their or any of their heirs, devisees, executors, administrators, grantees, assigns, or successors in right, title and interest in the property.

Defendants IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF MARYLAND FOR WORCESTER COUNTY CASE NO: C-23-CV-25-000019

ORDER OF

PUBLICATION

The object of this proceeding is to secure the foreclosure of al I rights of redemption in the following property described below in the State of Maryland, sold by the Collector of Taxes for Worcester County and the State of Maryland to the Plaintiff in this proceeding:

The Complaint states, among other things, that the amounts necessary for redemption have not been paid although more than six (6) months and a day from the date of sale has expired.

It is thereupon this 8th of February, 2025 by the Circuit Court for Worcester County:

ORDERED, That notice be given by the insertion of a copy of this Order in some newspaper having a general circulation in Worcester County once a week for three (3) successive weeks on or before the 10th day of March, 2025, warning all persons interested in the property to appear in this Court by the 11th day of April, 2025 and redeem the property described above and answer the Complaint or thereafter a Final Judgment will be entered foreclosing all rights of redemption in the property, and vesting in the Plaintiff a title, free and clear of all encumbrances.

Brian D. Shockley JUDGE

True Copy Test: Susan R. Braniecki

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 20508 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF CHARLES A. GRIMM

Notice is given that Tracey Drocella, 13299 Rollie Rd., E, Bishopville, MD 21813-1109, was on February 05, 2025 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Charles A. Grimm who died on January 01, 2025, with a will.

Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal representative or the attorney.

All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent’s will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 5th day of August, 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.

Tracey Drocella 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: February 13, 2025

OCD-2/13/3t

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 MARY KATHERINE PUSEY Estate No. 20522 Notice is given that LISA MARIE JERSCHEID whose address is 5184 LITTLE MILL RD STOCKTON, MD 21864-2236 was on FEBRUARY 05, 2025 appointed Personal Representative of the es-

tate of MARY KATHERINE PUSEY who died on DECEMBER 27, 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 5th day of AUGUST, 2025

Any person having a claim against the decedent must present the claim to the undersigned personal representative or file it with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates:

(1) Six months from the date of the decedent's death; or

(2) Two months after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claims within two months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. A claim not presented or filed on or before that date, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter. Claim forms may be obtained from the Register of Wills.

TERRI WESTCOTT, Register of Wills for WORCESTER COUNTY ONE W MARKET STREET ROOM 102 - COURT HOUSE SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1074 OCD-2/13/3t

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 20514 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF RALPH M. RAYNE JR.

Notice is given that Laura R. Gaylor, 11241 Bell Rd., Whaleyville, MD 21872-2005, was on February 05, 2025 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Ralph M. Rayne Jr. who died on January 31, 2025, with a will.

Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal representative or the attorney.

All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent’s will) shall file their

objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 5th day of August, 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.

Laura R. Gaylor

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: February 13, 2025

OCD-2/13/3t

MUNICIPAL INVESTMENTS, LLC

C/O KENNY LAW GROUP, LLC Plaintiff vs. CORA DANIELS NEELON, GAIL E NEELON, OCEAN PINES ASSOCIATION, INC., WORCESTER COUNTY, MARYLAND AND All persons having or claiming to have an interest in the property situate and lying in Worcester County and known as 1300 OCEAN PKWY AND Unknown Owner of the property 1300 OCEAN PKWY described as follows: Property Tax ID 03-105830 on the Tax Roll of Worcester County, the unknown owner's heirs, devisees, and personal representatives and their or any of their heirs, devisees, executors, administrators, grantees, assigns, or successors in right, title and interest in the property.

Defendants IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF MARYLAND FOR WORCESTER COUNTY CASE NO: C-23-CV-25-000021

ORDER OF PUBLICATION

The object of this proceeding is to secure the foreclosure of all rights of redemption in the following property described below in the State of Maryland, sold by the Collector of Taxes for Worcester County and the State of Maryland to the Plaintiff in

this proceeding:

The Complaint states, among other things, that the amounts necessary for redemption have not been paid although more than six ( 6) months and a day from the date of sale has expired.

It is thereupon this 8th of February, 2025 by the Circuit Court for Worcester County:

ORDERED, That notice be given by the insertion of a copy of this Order in some newspaper having a general circulation in Worcester County once a week for three (3) successive weeks on or before the 10th day of March, 2025, warning all persons interested in the property to appear in this Court by the 11th day of April, 2025 and redeem the property described above and answer the Complaint or thereafter a Final Judgment will be entered foreclosing all rights of redemption in the property, and vesting in the Plaintiff a title, free and clear of all encumbrances.

Brian D. Shockley JUDGE

True Copy Test: Susan R. Braniecki Clerk of the Circuit Court Worcester County MD OCD-2/13/3t

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. 20524 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF DEBORAH ZIZWAREK AKA: DEBORAH ANN ZIZWAREK

Notice is given that John A. Price Jr., 4113 Apple St., Felton, PA 173228442, was on February 07, 2025 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Deborah Zizwarek who died on January 29, 2025, with a will.

Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal representative or the attorney.

All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent’s will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 7th day of August, 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.

John A. Price Jr. 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:

February 13, 2025

OCD-2/13/3t

MUNICIPAL INVESTMENTS,

LLC

C/O KENNY LAW GROUP, LLC

Plaintiff vs. RNR PROPERTIES, LLC, SURFSIDE 84 CONDOMINIUM, WORCESTER COUNTY, MARYLAND AND

All persons having or claiming to have an interest in the property situate and lying in Worcester County and known as 4 84TH ST, #1B AND

Unknown Owner of the property 4 84TH ST, #lB described as follows: Property Tax ID 10-090687 on the Tax Roll of Worcester County, the unknown owner's heirs, dcvisccs, and personal representatives and their or any of their heirs, devisees, executors, administrators, grantees, assigns, or successors in right, title and interest in the property.

Defendants IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF MARYLA D FOR WORCESTER COUNTY CASE NO: C-23-CV-25-000022

ORDER OF PUBLICATION

The object of this proceeding is to secure the foreclosure of all rights of redemption in the following property described below in the State of Maryland, sold by the Collector of Taxes for Worcester County and the State of Maryland to the Plaintiff in this proceeding:

The Complaint states, among other things, that the amounts necessary for redemption have not been paid although more than six (6) months and a day from the date of sale has expired.

It is thereupon this 8th of February, 2025 by the Circuit Court for Worcester County:

ORDERED, That notice be given by the insertion of a copy of this Order in some newspaper having a general circulation in Worcester County once a week for three (3) successive weeks on or before the 10th day of March, 2025, warning all persons interested in the property to appear in this Court by the 11th day of April, 2025 and redeem the property described above and answer the Complaint or thereafter a Final Judgment will be entered foreclosing all rights of redemption in the property, and vesting in the Plaintiff a

title, free and clear of all encumbrances.

Brian D. Shockley JUDGE

True Copy

Test: Susan R. Braniecki Clerk of the Circuit Court Worcester County MD OCD-2/13/3t

MUNICIPAL INVESTMENTS, LLC

C/O KENNY LAW GROUP, LLC Plaintiff vs.

SCOTT WILLIAM ROEMER, ELIZABETH M ROEMER, OLYMPIC CONDOMINIUM, WORCESTER COUNTY, MARYLAND AND

All persons having or claiming to have an interest in the property situate and lying in Worcester County and known as 15 40TH ST, #14 AND Unknown Owner of the property 15 40TH ST, #14 described as follows: Property Tax ID 10-238129 on the Tax Roll of Worcester County, the unknown owner's heirs, devisees, and personal representatives and their or any of their heirs, devisees, executors, administrators, grantees, assigns, or successors in right, title and interest in the property.

Defendants IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF MARYLAND FOR WORCESTER COUNTY CASE N0: C-23-CV-25-000023

ORDER OF PUBLICATION

The object of this proceeding is to secure the foreclosure of all rights of redemption in the following property described below in the State of Maryland, sold by the Collector of Taxes for Worcester County and the State of Maryland to the Plaintiff in this proceeding:

The Complaint states, among other things, that the amounts necessary for redemption have not been paid although more than six (6) months and a day from the date of sale has expired.

It is thereupon this 8th of February, 2025 by the Circuit Court for Worcester County:

ORDERED, That notice be given by the insertion of a copy of this Order in some newspaper having a general circulation in Worcester County once a week for three (3) successive weeks on or before the 10th day of March, 2025, warning all persons interested in the property to appear in this Court by the 11th day of April, 2025 and redeem the property described above and answer the Complaint or thereafter a Final Judgment will be entered foreclosing all rights of redemption in the property, and vesting in the Plaintiff a title, free and clear of all encumbrances.

Brian D. Shockley JUDGE

NOTICE

OF PASSAGE OF BILL 24-11

WORCESTER COUNTY COMMISSIONERS

Take Notice that Bill 24-11 (Zoning – Private, noncommercial storage buildings) was passed by Commissioners Abbott, Bertino, Elder, Fiori, Mitrecic, and Purnell on February 4, 2025.

A fair summary of the bill is as follows:

§ ZS 1-201(c)(34). (Adds a special exception use for private, noncommercial buildings for the storage of personal property.)

This is only a fair summary of the bill. A full copy of the bill is posted on the Legislative Bulletin Board in the main hall of the Worcester County Government Center outside Room 1103, is available for public inspection in Room 1103 of the Worcester County Government Center once County Government Offices are opened to the public. In the interim, a full copy of the bill is available on the County Website at www.co.worcester.md.us.

THE WORCESTER COUNTY COMMISSIONERS

OCD-2/20/3t

IN THE ORPHANS’ COURT FOR (OR) BEFORE THE REGISTER OF WILLS FOR WORCESTER COUNTY, MARYLAND

IN THE ESTATE OF: WILLIAM J. MCGRAW ESTATE NO. 20531

NOTICE

OF JUDICIAL PROBATE

To all Persons Interested in the above estate:

You are hereby notified that a petition has been filed by Brian M. Spern, Esq., 3701 Old Court RoadSuite 24, Baltimore, MD 21208 for judicial probate for the appointment of a personal representative. A hearing will be held at One W. Market Street, Court Room 4, Court House, Snow Hill, MD 21863 on March 18, 2025 at 10:00 a.m.

This hearing may be transferred or postponed to a subsequent time. Further information may be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills. Terri Westcott Register of Wills

One W. Market Street Room 102 - Court House Snow Hill, MD 21863-1074

Phone: (410) 632-1529

Newspaper designated by personal representative: Ocean City Digest

Publication Date: February 20, 2025

NOTICE IS GIVEN that the Circuit Court of Prince William County, Virginia appointed Judith Keebler Sentz, 4377 Spillway Ln., Dumfries, VA 22025-1604 as the Executor of the Estate of Irvin Henry Sentz III who died on November 14, 2023 domiciled in Virginia, America.

The Maryland resident agent for service of process is Raymond D. Coates Jr. whose address is 6200 Coastal Hwy., Ste. 300, Ocean City, MD 21842-6698.

At the time of death, the decedent owned real or leasehold property in the following Maryland counties: Worcester County.

All persons having claims against the decedent must file their claims with the Register of Wills for Worcester County with a copy to the foreign personal representative on or before the earlier of the following dates:

(1) Six months from the date of the decedent’s death; or

(2) Two months after the foreign personal representative mails or delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claim within two months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. Claims filed after that date or after a date extended by law will be barred.

Judith Keebler Sentz 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: February 20, 2025

OCD-2/20/3t

Regan J. R. Smith Esq. Williams, Moore, Shockley & Harrison LLP 3509 Coastal Hwy. Ocean City, MD 21842-3334

NOTICE

OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 20533 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF GIULIA PAPA

AKA: JULIA PAPA

Notice is given that Yolanda Fiore, 1005 Wilmington Ln., Ocean City, MD 21842-3975, was on February 14, 2025 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Giulia Papa who died on January 03, 2025, with a will.

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.

Yolanda Fiore 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: February 20, 2025

OCD-2/20/3t _________________________________

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 20513 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF ROBERT J. SCHULTZ AKA: ROBERT JOHN SCHULTZ

Notice is given that Kenneth Schultz, 1312 Summerhill Dr., Malvern PA 19355-8715, was on February 10, 2025 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Robert J. Schultz who died on December 04, 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 10th day of August, 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

True Copy

Test: Susan R. Braniecki

Clerk of the Circuit Court Worcester County MD

OCD-2/13/3t

OCD-2/20/2t

COATES, COATES, & COATES, P.A.

RAYMOND D. COATES JR., ESQ. 6200 COASTAL HIGHWAY, SUITE 300 OCEAN CITY, MD 21842

NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE ESTATE NO. 20532

Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal representative or the attorney.

All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent’s will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 14th day of August, 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

(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.

Kenneth Schultz 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: February 20, 2025

KHURRAM RIAZ

429 W. Market Street

Snow Hill, MD 21863

Plaintiff, v.

RMB HOLDINGS LLC

PO Box 485

Salisbury, MD 21803

Defendant, And AEGIS FUNDING CORPORATION

P.O. Box 84308

Baton Rouge, LA 70884

OCD-2/20/3t

Defendant And WORCESTER COUNTY

Attn: Phil Thompson I West Market Street, Room 1105 Snow Hill, MD 21863, Defendant, and ALL PERSONS THAT HA VE OR CLAIM TO HAVE ANY INTEREST IN PROPERTY SITUATE IN WORCESTER CO, MD DESCRIBED AS: 40' X 80' 508 Bonneville Avenue, Pocomoke, Tax Account# 01-020293, Defendant. IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR WORCESTER COUNTY, MARYLAND

Case No.: C-23-CV-25-000041

ORDER OF

PUBLICATION

The object of this proceeding is to secure the foreclosure of all rights of redemption in the following property described below and located in Worcester County, sold by the Collector of Taxes for the County of Worcester and the State of Maryland to the Plaintiff in this proceeding: Account No. 01-02093, Property description 40' X 80' 508 Bonneville Avenue Pocomoke, Deed Reference: 5033/568, Assessed to RMB HOLDINGS LLC, owned by RMH BOLDINGS LLC. The Complaint states, among other things, that the amounts necessary for redemption have not been paid.

It is, thereupon this 13th of February, 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, Maryland once a week for three (3) successive weeks, warning all persons interested in the property to appear in this Court by the 15th day of April, 2025, and redeem the property described above and answer the Complaint or thereafter a final judgment will be entered foreclosing all rights of redemption in the property, and vesting in the Plaintiff title, free and clear of all encumbrances.

Brian D. Shockley Judge, Circuit Court for Worcester County True Copy Test: Susan R. Braniecki Clerk of the Circuit Court Worcester County MD OCD-2/20/3t

BEFORE THE PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION OF MARYLAND

IN THE MATTER OF TPE MD WO73, LLC’S APPLICATION FOR A CERTIFICATE OF PUBLIC CONVENIENCE AND NECESSITY TO CONSTRUCT A 5.0 MW SOLAR PHOTOVOLTAIC GENERATING FACILITY IN WORCESTER COUNTY, MARYLAND

CASE NO 9772

NOTICE OF PRE-HEARING CONFERENCE

A pre-hearing conference in the above-entitled matter is scheduled for March 10, 2025, at 1:00pm, via virtual platform, concerning TPE MD WO73, LLC’s application for a Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity (CPCN) from the Maryland Public Service Commission to construct a 5.0 MW solar electric generating facility approximately ½ mile northwest of the intersection of Old Ocean City Boulevard and Main Street, Berlin, Maryland.

Anyone wishing to view the live stream of the hearing may do so via the Public Utility Law Judge’s (PULJ) YouTube Channel, https://bit.ly/2X6wLiP. Any questions about the hearing should be addressed to psc.pulj@gmail.com. The purpose of the pre-hearing conference is for the PULJ to establish a procedural schedule for the case and consider any preliminary matters, including any petitions to intervene.

Petitions to intervene must be filed by Friday March 7, 2025, and may be filed electronically through the Commission’s website at www.psc.md.us or by first class mail to the Commission’s Executive Secretary, Andrew S. Johnston, Maryland Public Service Commission, 6 St. Paul Street, 16th Floor, Baltimore MD 21202, and must reference Case No. 9772. The Commission encourages the parties to use the Commission’s e-file system for filing.

OCD-2/27/2t

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

WORCESTER COUNTY BOARD OF ZONING APPEALS AGENDA

THURSDAY MARCH 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. 25-12, on the lands of The Williams Family Trust, requesting an after-the-fact variance to the rear yard setback from 30 feet to 28.3 feet (to encroach 1.7 feet) for an existing stairway to a second floor deck in the R-3 Multi-family Residential District, pursuant to Zoning Code §§ ZS 1-116(c)(4), ZS 1207(b)(2) and ZS 1-305, located at 31 Harborview Drive, Tax Map 16, Parcel 38, Section 1, Lot 394, Tax District 3, Worcester County, Maryland.

6:35 p.m. Case No. 25-14, on the lands of Norman and Diana Beck, et al., requesting a variance to the front yard setback from 25 feet to 20.8 feet (to encroach 4.2 feet) to replace an existing 12’ x 16’ deck with a 10.5’ x 12’ deck and a 12.5’ x 12’ screened porch (total dimension of 12’x 23’) in the R-4 General Residential District, pursuant to Zoning Code §§ ZS 1116(c)(4), ZS 1-208(b)(2) and ZS 1305, located at 49 Anchor Way Drive, Tax Map 26, Parcel 432, Section 2, Block A, Lot 71, Tax District 10, Worcester County, Maryland.

6:40 p.m. Case No. 25-15, on the lands of Russell Properties LLC, on the application of Kristina Watkowski, requesting two (2) variances to the front yard setback off of Wilson Ave. from 25 feet to 4.24 feet (to encroach 20.76 feet) for proposed second and third floor cantilevers, and two (2) variances from 25 feet to 19.86 feet (to encroach 5.14 feet) for proposed second and third floor decks on the west end of the existing house; two (2) variances to the front yard setback from Madison Ave. from 30 feet to 16.11 feet (to encroach 13.89 feet) for proposed second and third floor cantilevers on the east side of the house; and two (2) variances to the side yard setback from 6 feet to 4 feet (to encroach 2 feet) for proposed second floor cantilevers on the north side of the existing house in the R-3 Multi-family Residential District, pursuant to Zoning Code §§ ZS 1-116(c)(4), ZS 1207(b)(2) and ZS 1-305, located at 13444 Madison Ave., Tax Map 5, Parcel 1, Lot 141, Tax District 10, Worcester County, Maryland.

6:45 p.m. Case No. 25-13, on the application of Hugh Cropper, IV, on the property of Giovanni and Jennifer David and Mark Gross and Scott Murrell, et al., as shown on the plat submitted with the application, requesting a variance to the Atlantic Coastal Bays Critical Area Ordinance to exceed the allowable 100 feet tidal wetland crossing by 53 feet for a proposed 3 foot by 153 foot walkway over tidal wetlands, pursuant to Natural Resources Section NR 3-125(b)(1) and Zoning Code Section ZS 1-116(m)(1), located at 11515 Heron Lane, approximately 730 feet east of South Point Drive, Tax Map 50, Parcel 24, Lot 4 and Tax Map 50, Parcel 18, Lot 44, of the Bay Shores subdivision, in the Tenth Tax District of Worcester County, Maryland.

QUINN MCGINNES WILLIAMS, MOORE, SHOCKLEY & HARRISON, LLP

3509 COASTAL HWY OCEAN CITY, MD 21842-3334

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

To all persons interested in the estate of ETHELEE H NALLS AKA: ETHELEE HEWITT NALLS Estate No. 20536 Notice is given that MARGARET N PRICE whose address is 252 BISHOPS GRANT DR SUDLERSVILLE, MD 21668-1609 was on FEBRUARY 19, 2025 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of ETHELEE H NALLS who died on JANUARY 23, 2025 with a will.

Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal representative or the attorney.

All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent's will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 19th day of AUGUST, 2025

Any person having a claim against the decedent must present the claim to the undersigned personal representative or file it with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates: (1) Six months from the date of the decedent's death; or (2) Two months after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claims within two months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. A claim not presented or filed on or before that date, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter. Claim forms may be obtained from the Register of Wills.

TERRI WESTCOTT, Register of Wills for WORCESTER COUNTY ONE W MARKET STREET ROOM 102 - COURT HOUSE SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1074

OCD-2/27/3t

PROPOSAL SOLICITATION

Independent Auditing Services

Worcester County is seeking proposals from qualified Vendors to contract for an independent audit of its financial statements for fiscal years 2025 through 2029, with the option of auditing the financial statements for the subsequent five fiscal years in conformity with the requirements contained herein Proposal Documents.

Proposal Documents for the above referenced project may be obtained from the Worcester County Commissioner’s Office by either e-mailing the Procurement Officer, Nicholas Rice, at nrice@co.worcester.md.us or

by calling 410-632-1194 during normal business hours, or via the County’s Bids page on the County’s website. Vendors are responsible for checking this website for addenda prior to submitting their bids. Worcester County is not responsible for the content of any Proposal Document received through any third party bid service. It is the sole responsibility of the vendor to ensure the completeness and accuracy of their Completed Proposal Documents.

The last date to submit questions for clarification will be 12:00pm, Monday, March 17, 2025. Sealed Proposal Documents are due no later than 2:30pm on Tuesday, March 25, 2025, and will be opened and only vendor names will be read aloud in the Office of the County Commissioners, Worcester County Government Center – Room 1103, One West Market Street, Snow Hill, Maryland 21863.

Late Proposal Documents will not be accepted.

Envelopes shall be marked " Proposal Solicitation – Independent Auditing Services”, in the lower left-hand corner.

Minority vendors are encouraged to compete for the award of the solicitation.

Nicholas W. Rice, CPPO, CPPB, NIGP-CPP Procurement Officer Worcester County, Maryland OCD-2/27/1t

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 20497 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF RONALD W. FERGER

Notice is given that Robin L. Ferger Hill, 705 Mooring Rd., Unit 3, Ocean City, MD 21842-4976, was on February 14, 2025 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Ronald W. Ferger who died on January 05, 2025, with a will.

Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal representative or the attorney.

All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent’s will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 14th day of August, 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.

Robin L. Ferger Hill

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: February 27, 2025

OCD-2/27/3t

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

To all persons interested in the estate of ANN R. GOUGH Estate No. 20523 Notice is given that KATHLEEN A. GOUGH whose address is 1214 ANNA DR., PHILADELPHIA, PA 19116-1800 was on FEBRUARY 13, 2025 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of ANN R. GOUGH who died on DECEMBER 15, 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 13th day of AUGUST, 2025

Any person having a claim against the decedent must present the claim to the undersigned personal representative or file it with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates:

(1) Six months from the date of the decedent's death; or

(2) Two months after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claims within two months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. A claim not presented or filed on or before that date, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter. Claim forms may be obtained from the Register of Wills.

TERRI WESTCOTT,

Register of Wills for Worcester County ONE W MARKET STREET ROOM 102 - COURT HOUSE

SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1074 OCD-12/29/3t

SMALL ESTATE NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

To all persons interested in the estate of DOROTHY AGNES LOPEZ Estate No. 20520 Notice is given that JOHN APPELT whose address is 10 81ST ST., UNIT 102, OCEAN CITY,

MD 21842-2850 was on FEBRUARY 13, 2025 appointed personal representative(s) of the small estate of DOROTHY AGNES LOPEZ who died on DECEMBER 26, 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.

TERRI WESTCOTT, Register of Wills for Worcester County ONE W MARKET STREET ROOM 102 - COURT HOUSE SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1074 OCD-2/27/1t

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARINGS BOARD OF PORT WARDENS

Pursuant to the provisions of Chapter 106 ”Waterways,” Article II – “Shoreline Development” of the Code of the Town of Ocean City, Maryland, hereinafter referred to as the Code, same being the Port Wardens Ordinance of Ocean City, Maryland, notice is hereby given that public hearings will be conducted in the Council Chambers of City Hall located at 301 Baltimore Avenue, Ocean City, Maryland.

Thursday, March 13, 2025 2:00 PM

PW 25-017 A request has been submitted to install 40’ of replacement vinyl bulkheading not to exceed 18” channel ward. To extend existing 5’ x 40’ dock to 7’ x 40’ and to add a 7’ extension to existing pier for a total length of 34.5’; maximum channel ward extension 39.5’. The site of the proposed construction is described as being located at 607 HARBOUR DR Parcel # 8020A-

1553B- in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.

OWNER: Dorothy L. Guillen Rev. Trust

APPLICANT: McGinty Marine Construction

PW 25-019 A request has been submitted to install one boatlift with associated pilings and a 5’ x 20’ float, all maximum channel ward extension of 20’. The site of the proposed construction is described as being located at 2817 GULL WAY Parcel # 4892 -A3 in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.

OWNER: Mountaindown2Seaside Trust

APPLICANT: J. Stacey Hart

PW 25-020 A request has been submitted to install 50’ of replacement vinyl bulkheading, construct a 5’ x 40’ dock and a 6’ x 43.5’ pier, reinstall two (2) PWC lifts and install two (2) new boat lifts with associated pilings maximum channelward extension of 50’. The site of the proposed construction is described as being located at 613 S SURF RD Parcel # 9526A-14 in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.

OWNER: Diane Mychajliw

APPLICANT: J. Stacey Hart

PW 25-021 A request has been submitted to replace 50’ of deteriorated timber bulkheading with vinyl; install two (2) new PWC lifts with associated pilings and one (1) boat lift on existing pilings, maximum channelward extension 50’. The site of the proposed construction is described as being located at 615 S SURF RD Parcel # 9527A-15 in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.

OWNER: Roman Mychajliw

APPLICANT: J. Stacey Hart

PW 25-022 A request has been submitted to install one boat lift with associated pilings not to exceed 37’ maximum channelward extension. The site of the proposed construction is described as being located at 67 HARBOUR ISLAND CM Parcel # 3486 -67 in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.

OWNER: RHR Family, LLC

APPLICANT: J. Stacey Hart

OCD-2/27/2t

NOTICE

OF PUBLIC HEARING PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION

TOWN OF OCEAN CITY, MARYLAND

Pursuant to the provisions of Chapter 110 of the Code of Ocean City, Maryland, hereinafter referred to as the Code, same being the Zoning Ordinance for Ocean City, Maryland, notice is hereby given that public hearings will be conducted by the Planning and Zoning Commission for Ocean City, Maryland in the Council Chambers of City Hall located on Baltimore Avenue and Third Street, in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland on: Tuesday, March 18, 2025 At 7:00 PM

To consider amending Chapter 110, entitled Zoning, Section 110-2 entitled Definitions, to add certain definitions related to the outdoor display of merchandise; and Section 110-884, entitled Outdoor Display of Merchandise Standards for Properties Fronting on Atlantic Avenue (boardwalk to establish regulations for businesses wishing to display merchandise outdoors along properties fronting Atlantic Avenue (boardwalk). Businesses would be required to obtain an annual display permit through an application process. The ordinance addresses general standards for all outdoor displays and specific requirements for free-standing outdoor displays, wall mounted outdoor displays, A-Frame signs, ancillary services and restaurants. The ordinance also addresses enforcement procedures.

APPLICANT: PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION (PZ FILE #25-1810003)

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-2/27/3t

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING BOARD OF ZONING APPEALS

TOWN OF OCEAN CITY, MARYLAND

Pursuant to the provisions of Chapter 110 of the Code of Ocean City, Maryland, hereinafter referred to as the Code, same being the Zoning Ordinance for Ocean City, Maryland, notice is hereby given that public hearings will be conducted by the Board of Zoning Appeals for Ocean City, Maryland in the Council Chambers of City Hall located on Baltimore Avenue and Third Street, in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland on:

Thursday, March 13, 2025 AT 6:00 PM

Pursuant to the provisions of Section 110-93(2), Powers of the Code, an application related to Section 110-94(2)(b) has been filed to request a special parking exception to waive 4 out of 5 required parking space for the conversion of a laundromat to a private office. It is further described as being located on the west side of Philadelphia Avenue and is locally

Legal Advertising

known as 409 Philadelphia Avenue, Unit 31, in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.

APPLICANT: BRITTANI PHILLIPS (BZA 2711 #2509400001)

AT 6:10 PM

Pursuant to the provisions of Section 110-93(1), Powers of the Code, an application related to Section 110-333(1) has been filed to request a private dock on a property which has no established principal use on the premises. The property is described as Tax Map 110, Grid 12, Parcel 4124, and as Lot 21 of the J.E. Evans Plat. It is further described as being located on the west side of the intersection of Edgewater Avenue and 7th Street and is locally known as Lot 21, in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.

APPLICANT: TIDAL SOLUTIONS, LLC (BZA 2713 #25-09400002)

Further information concerning the public hearings may be examined in the office of the Department of Planning and Community Development in City Hall.

Christopher Rudolf, Chairman Maureen Howarth, Attorney OCD-2/27/2t

KIRK G. SIMPKINS ESQ

SIMPKINS & SIMPKINS, P.A. P.O. BOX 550

PRINCESS ANNE, MD 21853 NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 20540 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF EMILY JEAN TAYLOR

Notice is given that Kirk G. Simpkins, P.O. Box 550, Princess Anne, MD 21853-0550, was on February 24, 2025 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Emily Jean Taylor who died on February 07, 2025, with a will.

Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal representative or the attorney.

All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent’s will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 24th day of August, 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.

Kirk G. Simpkins

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: February 27, 2025

OCD-2/27/3t _________________________________

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. 20543 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF CHARLES ELWOOD BAILEY

Notice is given that Vina Bailey, 33 Blue Heron Cir., Berlin, MD 21811-2712, was on February 24, 2025 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Charles Elwood Bailey who died on January 11, 2025, with a will.

Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal representative or the attorney.

All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent’s will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 24th day of August, 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.

Vina Bailey 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: February 27, 2025

Certification earned

Atif Gaddis, BSA officer for Taylor Bank, recently earned the Certified Anti-Money Laundering and Fraud Professional (CAFP) certification from the American Bankers Association.

“Earning the CAFP certification is an accomplishment that validates Atif’s experience and depth of education in the identification of money laundering and fraud, including the related reporting and compliance requirements. Taylor Bank is focused on supporting and developing our employees through ongoing training, certifications, and continuing education,” said M. Dean Lewis, CEO and president.

The CAFP certification is awarded to individuals who demonstrate excellence in the field of AML and fraud prevention. It recognizes an individual’s practical experience in complying with U.S. banking laws and regulations, and their ability to detect, assess and respond to a variety of financial crimes. To qualify for the CAFP certification, individuals must have certain levels of experience and education in the AML and fraud prevention discipline, pass an exam and agree to abide by a code of ethics.

Atif began his career with the Bank in 2008 and has since held a variety of roles. He participated in the Bank’s Professional Development Group and the Maryland Bankers Association’s Emerging Leaders Champion Program. He served on the American Bankers Association Emerging Leaders Council from 2019 to 2023. As BSA officer, he oversees the development, implementation, and management of all aspects of the Bank Secrecy Act compliance program.

Partner announced

PKS & Company, P.A., Certified Public Accountants and Advisors to Business, is pleased to announce that Brian T. Ford, CPA, has been admitted as a partner with the firm. His admission as a partner is a direct result of his continued commitment to client service, business acumen and technical proficiency.

“Brian is a key member of our team, and I am pleased to announce his admission as partner in our firm” said Dan O’Connell, managing partner of PKS.  “He has proven his ability to cultivate excellent client relationships and solve challenging problems.  We are excited for his continued growth

and impact he will bring to the firm as a partner, and his ability to inspire and elevate those around him.”

Brian has eight years of experience in auditing and taxation, specializing in construction, non-profit organizations, uniform guidance and single audits, common interest realty associations, and income tax planning for individuals and owners of small and medium sized businesses.

A graduate of Salisbury University with Bachelor of Science degrees in both finance and accounting, Brian is licensed to practice in the state of Maryland. He is a member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants and the Maryland Association of Certified Public Accountants. He is also active in the community serving as board member for Wicomico County ACE and a member of the Berlin Lions Clubs. Brian lives in Berlin with his wife Logan and son Gavin.

Board member named

Meredith Mears, senior advisor with SVN | Miller Commercial Real Estate and co-chair of the SVN National Self Storage Council, was recently named as a board member for the Lower Shore Land Trust (LSLT).

The LSLT is a nationally accredited 501(c)(3) nonprofit, serving Somer-

Continued on Page 51

REAL ESTATE MARKETPLACE

Atif Gaddis

Brian Ford

Homebuyer FAQs on escrow, earnest money

By Lauren Bunting Contributing Writer

(Feb. 28, 2025) The National Association of REALTORS® released a consumer guide report providing details on escrow and earnest money to help homebuyers understand what they should know about the typical step of depositing money into an escrow account when purchasing a home. What is escrow?

Escrow is a financial agreement in which a third party, such as an attorney or another settlement or title agent, controls payments between the buyer and seller, only releasing the funds involved when all the terms of

the contract are met. As the buyer, once you close on the home, the money you’ve placed in escrow will often be applied toward your down payment and other closing costs.

Other costs that can be covered by funds in an escrow account include property taxes and insurance premiums.

What is “earnest money”?

Also known as a “good faith deposit,” an earnest money deposit is paid by a homebuyer to show their interest is legitimate and they intend to

close on a home. This may be a percentage of the purchase price or a set amount. To protect the funds, earnest money will be held securely in an escrow account until closing or any disputes are resolved. During this time, the buyer and seller will be unable to access the funds. Importantly, earnest money is NOT the same as a down payment, which is the money you put toward the home’s purchase price.

Is an earnest money deposit required?

There are no laws requiring an earnest money deposit to be attached to a home offer. However, it is a common practice. Certain sellers may re-

quire or request earnest money deposits or look favorably on offers that include them.

How much earnest money should be offered?

Earnest money deposits can be any amount, but typically range from 1% to 10% of the home’s purchase price. The size of your deposit may depend on several factors, including the competitiveness of the market, your down payment amount, whether you include contingencies in your offer, and the seller’s preferences.

— Lauren Bunting is the Broker for Keller Williams Realty of Delmarva in Ocean City

County eyes task force to explore rate concerns

By Brian Shane Staff Writer

(Feb. 28, 2025) In response to financial troubles among the county’s independent water and wastewater treatment facilities, Worcester County leaders have formed a task force to address inefficiencies in the system.

County Administrator Weston

Young at the Board of Commissioners’ Feb. 19 meeting requested the consideration of a commissioner workgroup, of up to three members, and their findings would come back to the full Board of Commissioners.

Commissioners Eric Fiori, Diana Purnell and Jim Bunting were chosen by their peers for the panel. Their first meeting was scheduled for

Wednesday. Meeting minutes would be shared with the other four commissioners.

“I think we need to create a task force, because in my opinion, we’re in an emergency, especially in the Mystic Harbor, Glen Riddle sewer districts in particular,” said Fiori at the meeting. “We’re losing so much money. I myself would never vote for

27 - Mar

r. . 6

an increase in water-sewer costs. These ideas need commissioner buyin. We can’t function like this.”

Each service area that provides county water and sewer service operates as an independent enterprise fund and isn’t directly connected to the county’s general fund. All the funds need to break even, so the ex-

See WATER Page 51

set, Wicomico and Worcester counties. The LSLT protects and restores natural resources, wildlife habitat and working lands to support and connect healthy and vibrant communities.

Mears also served as regent of the University System of Maryland and was named a top 100 Woman in the state of Maryland in 2020 by The Daily Record for her contributions and mentoring.

“Merry’s deep-rooted love for the Lower Shore, combined with her extensive real estate expertise and vast professional network, make her an invaluable addition to our leadership,” said Matt Heim, executive director of the Lower Shore Land Trust. “Her passion for conserving the places we all love on the Lower Shore will undoubtedly strengthen our mission to preserve and protect the natural beauty and rural character of our region.”

“I’m grateful to do the work that this opportunity presents,” said Mears. “The Lower Shore Land Trust’s work in our community ensures the protection of natural heritage properties, and it shelters the habitat necessary to sustain a diverse and healthy wildlife population.”

Valet parking returns

TidalHealth Peninsula Regional announces the return of complimentary valet parking services at the Salisbury hospital, ensuring a smoother, more accessible experience for patients and visitors into and out of the facility.

The TidalHealth valet service enhances the overall patient experience by offering a hassle-free parking option, allowing patients and visitors to focus on their health and well-being rather than worrying about parking.

Complementary Monday through Friday valet parking is offered at the following entrances: Frank B. Hanna Main Entrance 6 a.m. to 3 p.m.; Richard A. Henson Cancer Institute Entrance 7 a.m. to 3 p.m.; and Volunteer/Cardiac Rehab Entrance 7:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

“We are excited to bring back valet services to make the experience more convenient for our patients and visitors,” said Scott Phillips, TidalHealth vice president of supply chain and support services. “Valet parking removes the stress of finding a parking spot and helps those who may be experiencing health challenges or mobility issues get to their appointments

Water, sewer areas report shortfall

Continued from Page 50

pense to operate a water and sewer plant needs to be supplemented with the rates users pay.

When a service area doesn’t have enough of a population to spread the cost around, it means everyone’s bills are higher, which leads to some county residents paying far more for water and sewer service than their neighbors.

Last fall, county officials found several water and wastewater treatment facilities in northern Worcester were not generating enough revenue to cover expenses because cash flows and rate structures were insufficient. It left seven service areas with an operating shortfall of about $2 million.

A public hearing was held Dec. 3 to share proposals that could have doubled some residents’ quarterly

water and sewer bills. Some who spoke at the hearing expressed frustration for receiving no notice whatsoever that their rates might be going up.

County officials ultimately decided to take about $9.5 million from the general fund as a loan to the service areas, to cover shortfalls through the current fiscal year.

That amount of money didn’t originate from a single issue, but instead was the cumulative cost resulting from several ongoing issues, according to county spokeswoman Kim Moses.

County funds went toward repaying the Ocean Pines service area providing water and wastewater services to the Glen Riddle area, covering increased chemical costs, and repairs to aging plants – which includes sup-

ply chain issues, increased parts costs, and difficulties obtaining parts that are no longer being manufactured.

The county also is considering the daunting task of consolidating 11 different water and sewer areas into a centralized forced sewer main, a daunting public works project that would be expensive and years in the making. The idea is still in the early discussion stages, officials said.

Fiori said he has “no appetite” to raise anyone’s water or sewer rates.

“I need to get to the bottom of why the rates are as high as they are,” he said in an interview. “That’s where the emergency language comes from, because if we don’t take this as an emergency, and we don’t get this fixed, it’s going to keep racking up loans for these districts.”

Meredith Mears

AGH, TidalHealth set May 1 deadline for historic merger

a big difference,” he added.

By Brian Shane Staff Writer

(Feb. 28, 2025) The Lower Shore’s two leading hospital systems are finetuning the language of their milestone merger agreement, with eyes on a May 1 deadline.

Both Atlantic General Hospital (AGH) and TidalHealth have been collaborating on their affiliation agreement, the document that will legally bind the two parties, and have begun planning for life post-merger as a united hospital system, according to Don Owrey, president and CEO of Atlantic General Hospital.

“We have a shared commitment and a like-minded vision for what health care should look like here in our communities and the broader region,” Owrey said in an interview Monday.

“I’m excited by it. Don’t misunderstand me, there’s a lot of work, but there would be a lot of work regardless. It’s just very, very difficult for hospitals today to not be part of a larger organization. The scale that you benefit from through that makes

On Dec. 12, Owrey and TidalHealth CEO Steve Leonard signed a non-binding letter of intent for their respective hospital systems to merge. Next, the Board of Trustees of the AGH Corporation has to approve the agreement before taking it to a vote among the corporation’s membership.

If they agree to the deal, those 80 AGH members who comprise the corporation will be replaced by a membership of one – namely, TidalHeath.

“We’ve talked about, how do we organize and grow services?” Owrey said. “How do we take advantages of the strengths that we bring coupled with the opportunities and the strengths that they bring? We’re only in the early stages of trying to evaluate that. That’s something that will occur once we merge.”

So far, the Maryland Health Care Commission has not received formal notice from either party about what they are planning to do, according to Tracey DeShields, the agency’s Director of Policy Development and External Affairs. State law requires 30 days’ notice to the state before closing on a contract to acquire an existing

by Steve Green

AThe Adventures of Fatherhood

guilty pleasure of mine continues to be reading the website, raisingteenstoday.com. The articles posted usually hit home, as we continue through our parenting journey with our teen boys, who are now 16 and 15 years old.

This fun little nugget popped up recently.

It was a listing, titled Things No One Tells You About Raising Teenagers.

1. You’ll go broke paying for groceries, braces, car insurance and new cell phones

2. That your teen’s favorite responses will be, “I’ll do it later,” “I’m too tired,” “oh … I forgot,” and “Good.”

3. That you’ll start missing them long before they move out.

4. That they’ll be too freaking tired to do anything during the day, but too wired to sleep at night.

5. You’ll spend 86% of your time driving them and their friends to Timbuktu.

6. That they’ll develop a major hoodie and foodie obsession.

7. That your mere existence could annoy or embarrass them.

8. That you can’t you use proper punctuation when texting them or they’ll think you’re nagging or being salty.

9. How sweet, funny and kind they are … when they want to be.

10. That even though they drive you bonkers at times, one day you’ll wake up and realize they’re one of your very best friends.

I have some more to add to the list, so here goes.

11. The answer is always “yes,” to is your room clean, but the reality is always far different until coercion.

12. No matter how exhausted, they refuse to go to bed early in the

summertime because they do not have school.

13. Showering immediately after working out and getting off a shift at a restaurant is out of the question.

14. Despite the rude treatment given to parents, you will hear constantly how well-mannered and polite they are to other people.

15. Cursing one time around them will result in them thinking they have full license to do so anytime. This, I heard from a friend.

16. Under absolutely no circumstances will they ever stand next to you at a concert. You may even see them standing by themselves across the way.

17. A surefire way to get teens and their friends out of the pool is to lay on a lounge chair nearby.

18. Discrimination is rampant when it comes to vegetables.

19. When talk of leaving the house comes around, it’s best to ask a simple question: ‘are you ready to walk out the door right now?’ If the answer is yes, don’t believe it.

20. Normal times to eat breakfast, lunch and dinner are not important.

21. Some conversations take a turn to the ugly without any warning.

22. Silence should not be reason for concern.

23. When they are looking at their phones, there’s no reason to try and start a conversation.

24. A breath test will truly determine if the teeth have been brushed.

25. They will not want their pictures taken now, but they will later be glad to see how much they have changed over time.

26. Boy/girl teen relationships are complicated and can change drastically from morning to night.

27. Phone calls are the fastest way to get a hold of them, followed by text messages.

28. Most teens don’t know how to

reply to an email evidently.

29. They are far more likely to try a new food for a stranger.

30. You can never be prepared for exactly how uncool they can make you feel.

31. Rides to and from wherever they want to go are more expected than appreciated.

32. They hide their love.

33. Teen siblings will pummel each other for no reason at all, but will stand up for each other no matter.

34. Showers will average about 10 minutes depending on the level of their perceived exhaustion.

35. Taking an Uber alone is a goal, but not paying for it.

36. Manual labor around the yard is expected to be rewarded.

37. Knocking and waiting a few seconds before opening a closed door is best for all.

38. Relaxing at home involves pajama pants and no shirt.

39. Giving advice is a surefire way to get the opposite choice chosen.

40. If let on their own, packing for a trip will only involve clothes for one day.

41. Nine times out of 10 you will just do it after getting so tired of waiting for the clothes in the dryer to get folded.

42. Clothes will disappear every single day.

43. Biking somewhere is always cooler than walking.

44. Always empty pockets from their clothes because there could be surprises.

45. It’s more likely than not they will not flush the toilet.

(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.)

State health care officials awaiting notice of merger

Continued from Page 53

health care facility.

Current AGH employees will transition through the merger and both sides are committed to preserving their workforce, according to Owrey, a career hospital administrator who joined AGH in 2022 after 20 years in leadership with the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center.

Across Delmarva, there’s a growing need for primary care such as internal medicine, family medicine, and pediatrics. There’s also a shortage of surgical and orthopedic specialties, Owrey added.

“We need more workers, not fewer,” he said. “I say it’s somewhat jokingly, but if the specialty ends in ‘ology,’ there’s a need for those services.”

Salisbury-based TidalHealth operates in 35 locations across eight counties on Delmarva, and employs about 5,500 people system-wide with 400 physicians and advanced healthcare providers, according to spokesman Roger Follebout.

The former Peninsula Health System and its flagship Peninsula Regional Medical Center in downtown Salisbury became TidalHealth in 2020 after absorbing Nanticoke Memorial Hospital in Seaford, Del., and McCready Memorial Hospital in Crisfield.

Meanwhile, AGH employs 885 people, including a medical staff of over 270 providers at 20 locations in Worcester and Sussex counties, including doctors’ offices, outpatient facilities, and the original hospital in Berlin, according to Owrey. He said he’ll continue on post-merger to direct the affairs at AGH.

AGH opened its doors in 1993 on the former site of the Esham family farm, after decades of planning by locals to have a hospital of their own –and not have to travel to Salisbury for hospital care.

And, back then, most Worcester County physicians were in private practice and not employed by a hospital. Today, Owrey says, medical service by a doctor “nine times out of 10” are provided through the hospital system.

“We’re so much more than just a hospital today,” Owrey said. “Our founding fathers, if you will, should be immensely proud of what they’ve created. We’re trying to build on that.”

Berlin council terminates development moratorium

By Tara Fischer Staff Writer

(Feb. 28, 2025) The Berlin Town Council has fully lifted the development moratorium enacted last year, allowing the planning office to again receive and consider rezoning and annexation requests.

The council also amended the motion to require the drafting of small area plans specific to areas under consideration for rezoning or annexation.

At the Berlin Mayor and Council’s Monday, Feb. 24 meeting, the group voted to entirely terminate the moratorium that was established last July to pause certain actions of the planning commission, including final site plan approval and rezoning and annexation requests in the absence of a full-time planning director following the passing of former position holder Dave Engelhart in April.

The temporary halt was extended several times until January 2025, when the council voted to expire the specific ban on final site plan approval. Ryan Hardesty, an experienced senior code enforcement officer with the City of Salisbury, was hired as the new acting planning director.

The moratorium remained in effect for rezoning and annexations to ease Hardesty into her role, which she officially began at the beginning of this month. At the Berlin Town Council meeting Monday, the governing body elected to finally lift the ban fully, now allowing the planning group to review annexations and rezoning requests, in addition to final site plans. The vote was unanimous, with Councilmember Shaneka Nichols absent.

Part of Monday’s vote was to also require the drafting of small area plans specific to spaces under consideration for rezoning and annexation requests. The new modification would extend the timeline for these asks. Rezonings are currently given an estimated 60 to 90 days. With the small area plan, this would be extended to 150 to 180 days. Annexations would be pushed from six to nine months to nine to 12 months with the new small area plan requirement.

“You are not going to be able to produce that small area plan quickly; there is a period of time,” planning consultant Rick Baldwin said. “... While the normal rezoning process is

See BERLIN Page 57

EXPERIENCE YOU CAN TRUST We have generations of

and are well known

We want to help you keep that

vanishing vanishing OCEAN CITY

WitH Bunk Mann

John Albert Purnell, Sr. (1904-1964) is remembered as Captain “Jack Pot Pie” of the Assateague South Point Ferry in the days before the Verrazano Bridge made vehicular traffic possible.

He received his nickname for eating his fill of pies at St. John’s Church on Lewis Road while in his teens and it followed him throughout his life. In his early years Purnell had worked as a pound fisherman for the legendary CP Cropper and later assisted his father hauling ice to Chincoteague. He began piloting the ferry “Miss Hattie” in 1949 and witnessed the ill-fated Ocean Beach development on Assateague in the 1950s and early ‘60s.

During the famous March Storm of ’62 Purnell was commended for taking the ferry to rescue people stranded by flood waters in West Ocean City and along the Worcester County bayside.

With the opening of the Verrazano Bridge in 1964, ferry service to Assateague was suspended. Captain “Jack Pot Pie” passed away the same year.

To purchase one of Bunk Mann’s books, click over to www.vanishingoc.com.

Things I Like...

By Steve Green

Before-and-after weight loss photos

Finding peace with a complicated matter

Worcester Prep’s annual musical

Conversations around my kitchen island

Skiing while it’s snowing

Headache-free road trips

Men who will wear plaid pants

Watching movies as a family

The word, ‘pithy’

Dropping off tax docs to the accountant

A clear conscience

Photo of “Miss Hattie” courtesy of OC Life Saving Station Museum

Berlin eyes comp plan updates

in that 60 to 90 days just for notifications and public meetings, you have more work to do, and more time must be requested. Just trying to give you a reasonable time frame … and to find a way not to have a moratorium but not be overwhelmed.”

According to Baldwin, small area plans will allow rezonings and annexations to proceed. Preparing these guidelines will give town officials an opportunity to determine the impact of the decisions regarding these requests so they may align with Berlin’s values.

The town also wants to update its comprehensive plan, which was last updated in 2010. Given that the document is 15 years old, its lack of upgrades over the years could complicate land-use decisions today. Baldwin maintained that Maryland requires local jurisdictions to maintain an up-to-date comprehensive plan to guide rulings, like annexations and rezonings. The small area plans would be incorporated as amendments to the larger, overall comprehensive plan.

“In essence, we are kind of [approving rezonings and annexations without a comprehensive plan], with ours being so outdated,” Berlin Mayor Zack Tyndall said. “...we cannot continue to move forward in our planning department without the tools that we need…The small area plan gives the Mayor and Council and the planning commission the ability to analyze more information about the impacts of such a change before you act on that type of request.”

The mayor added that the municipality will incorporate enhancements to a comprehensive plan during the upcoming budget process and is looking to hire a consultant to manage the project. It’s estimated based on other municipalities the cost to hire a consultant to lead the process could cost

$150,000.

“Once that small area plan is completed, it should be viewed as an amendment to your comprehensive plan,” Baldwin said. The consultant added that “these would be portions of that much larger plan so you can be consistent with the state's desire” and align with Berlin’s values today.

The small area plan will provide a clearer picture as town officials work to make these land-use decisions.

“What we’re asking with this small area plan is that it will kind of take the information that exists and then update it so we have an idea of whatever the request is to change,” Tyndall said. “This is the material that is fresh and current, and then what I’m hearing from [Baldwin] is that it will then be added as a new action step or a new piece of information within the comprehensive plan.”

Councilmember Steve Green agreed with the decision to move forward with the small area plan requirement, emphasizing that it’s time to end the moratorium in full, and this process will allow for that.

“I like the strategy because I do think it's time to lift the moratorium, but I don't want to put the team back in square one without the correct tools in the box,” he said.

Under the new requirement, when rezoning and annexation requests are brought forward, staff will develop the small area plans and present them to the planning commission with the request, along with a staff memo and recommendation.

“It doesn't change the flow of the process; it adds information that is available when the planning commission makes their recommendation and this body approves,” Tyndall said. “…It's trying to think about that request holistically and how it might impact the neighborhoods or adjacent parcels and provide more information to the bodies.”

9748 Stephen Decatur Hwy. #112 Ocean City, MD 21842

1321-B Mt. Hermon Rd. Salisbury, MD 21804 443-856-4676 Monday-Friday www.batielaw.com

Opinions

State fiscal woes affect everyone

As local organizations protest the possible loss of critical state funds, there appears to be no light at the end of this tunnel. The General Assembly and the administration of Gov. Wes Moore have yet to piece together a budget that doesn’t lose money and eats into the multi-billion-dollar debt on the horizon.

All the finger-pointing about how state government came to be in this much trouble are beside the point. Republicans blame Moore for spending too much, and Democrats blame former Gov. Larry Hogan for spending too little.

Exacerbating the problem is the $236 million Medicaid mistake uncovered last spring when the Department of Legislative Services found that a number from the old forecast had accidently been carried forward in the new one. And then, the Key Bridge was destroyed.

Bad luck, bad job, bad planning. It makes no difference now. What matters is what happens next, and that includes the possibility that the federal government will push more Medicaid costs to the states to trim its own budget.

Even if that doesn’t happen, Maryland and its beneficiaries are in trouble. This week the Lower Shore Land Trust reported the devastation it faces if the state follows through with a suspension of funding for the Rural Legacy Program.

A day later, the Ocean City Hotel-Motel-Restaurant Association and other tourism and hospitality groups condemned the state’s consideration of a 68% cut in tourism spending on promotions and programs. Meanwhile, educators throughout Maryland oppose any delays in implementing the state’s Blueprint for Education, and yet ...

People who think the best solutions to state and federal budgeting issues are those that leave them out of the equation are finding out now it is no longer that easy. No one wants to pay more taxes, and no one wants to feel the consequences of spending reductions. But in the long and short terms, some of both is the only way governments can remain solvent.

Trouble with tariffs

For the longest time, I thought the word “Tariff” was the last name of an Egyptian actor, as in possibly a countryman of the great film star, Omar Shariff.

NEWS

EDITOR STEWART DOBSON; EXECUTIVE EDITOR STEVE GREEN

ASSOCIATE EDITOR BETHANY HOOPER

STAFF WRITERS TARA FISCHER, BRIAN SHANE

Contact News Room: editor@oceancitytoday.net SALES

ACCOUNT MANAGERS MARY COOPER, TERRI FRENCH, RENEE KELLY

CLASSIFIEDS/LEGALS PAMELA GREEN

Contact Sales: sales@oceancitytoday.net PRODUCTION

ART DIRECTOR COLE GIBSON; SENIOR PAGE DESIGNER SUSAN PARKS

SENIOR AD DESIGNER KELLY BROWN ADMINISTRATION

PUBLISHER/CONTROLLER CHRISTINE BROWN

ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT GINI TUFTS

Web: octodaydispatch.com ~ Facebook: facebook/mdcoastdispatch.com

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

I was later informed that I was mistaken, and that “Tariff” was actually “Sheriff” in Tweety-Bird speak: “Howdy, tariff, I tought I taw a puddytat.”

Only in recent years did I realize that a tariff is a bill that I’ll end up paying one way or the other, as the newspaper industry did when the last goround of tariffs landed on the Canadian newsprint we use to produce this fine publication.

As nice as the Canadians are, or used to be, they politely declined to pick up the extra costs so the big wheels of the printing presses could keep on turning at the same low price.

I can’t recall the exact wording the paper producers used in passing the buck to us, but it went something like, “Dear customer, Tough noogies,” signed, Pierre Au Gratin, plant manager. Now, unless the ever-changing situation changes again, we’re looking at newsprint being tariffed (yep, that’s a real word) as of March 4.

I suppose we can deal with it, but I fear the next letter from our increasingly unhappy Canadian neighbors will be somewhat less chirpy than the “noogie” vociferation. I suspect it will be more on the order of “Oui oui in your Cheerios, monsieur,” Regards, Pierre.

Not being a student of international economics, or much of anything really, I confess that I don’t know a great deal about tariffs or

import duties. So, I looked it up. It turns out that the word is derived from the ancient Arabic word, ta’riff or d'araf which, loosely translated, means, “Stick it to the Europeans.”

Not really. A ta’riff was a listing of the rates the Arab merchants were charging each other and their European trading partners. It was only in the 18th Century that its meaning was altered to mean “tough noogies,” “Wah, wah, wah,” and “... where doubloons don’t shine.”

In 1789, President George Washington signed the Tariff Act, which imposed a 5% tariff on most imports and that led to the creation of the Revenue Cutter Service (forerunner of the Coast Guard, so hooray for that) in 1790 to collect it.

Personally, I’m not a fan of tariffs ... on things I need, want or like. Coffee, for instance, is one of those things that fits into all three categories and is going to cost more because we can’t grow it here.

We import it from Brazil, Columbia, Mexico and Vietnam, all of whom are currently inclined to give us a good dark roasting should the opportunity arise.

I think society would be better served if we left coffee alone and instead imposed these penalties on any combination of ingredients used to make green bean casserole, which I detest while acknowledging that it probably does meet the building code for roof patching.

Twenty million other Americans would disagree, which makes me wonder if we shouldn’t be able to place a tariff on the opinions of others we don’t want to hear.

“You want to know what I think?”

“No, I really don’t, but if you’re going to tell me anyway, it will cost you 25% up front for me to listen.”

Between the Lines

By Steve Green

Between social media, website and print, last week’s Alaska Stand story reached more than 300,000 people. There was a bit of shock over the news on social media, but also relief the location would remain in local hands with Thrasher’s French Fries buying the property. The famous business will close its 8th Street location and move to the corner of 9th Street.

The Alaska Stand closing led to some other family-owned businesses on the Boardwalk taking to social media this week to remark on its significance. The Dough Roller posted, “Running a generational boardwalk business here in Ocean City, MD isn’t easy—we know that firsthand. This year, we’ve seen two cherished neighbors, Alaska Stand and Tony's Pizza, make the tough decision to pivot. We genuinely wish both families the very best in their future endeavors. To our loyal community: thank you for keeping our ovens hot and our fire alive across all three Dough Roller locations. Your support means everything.” For those who don’t know, Tony’s Pizza will not reopen this summer, as the space has been leased by the family to another operator with a different restaurant planned for this summer.

Dolle’s Candyland shared the Dough Roller’s post on its social media, saying, “This post sums up our sentiments perfectly. It’s very sad to see our very long time neighbors move on. We hold the memories dear and wish them well.”

With all the budget news every day on the federal and state front, it’s difficult to keep everything straight. Our front page says each week, “stubbornly local,” so no national politics talk here. With all the state budget cut proposals and department spending being slashed, it’s important to remember every story is a snapshot in time of current events and subject to change within hours in some cases.

A case in point, a few weeks back, disgust was expressed in this space at Maryland Gov. Wes Moore’s budget that cut $200 million from the Developmental Disabilities Administration. Maryland is once again facing a major structural budget deficit because it’s spending more money than it brings in. It’s an unbelievable occurrence, but the reality is government needs to shrink. There are far better avenues to consider however than cutting services to the most vulnerable among us in the state.

As of Thursday, the funding cuts have been delayed by Moore, so services in April are not suspended, but it all could change tomorrow. Whether the proposed contraction of services is included in the approved budget is still a concern as smoke and mirrors seems to be at play. ***

Artwork was needed to go along with this week’s story about Ocean City looking to codify restrictions on what apparel private businesses can place directly on the Boardwalk. Unfortunately, we didn’t have any recent file photos, so it was figured we were out of luck because it’s February.

Though all the businesses were closed Wednesday morning, Staff Writer Brian Shane did return with some vulgar images to prove the point in the reporting by Associate Editor Bethany Hooper. Two of the tamer photos made it into print this week.

The idea of getting the offensive merchandise off the boards is nothing new, but going the way of an ordinance will allow enforcement to take place. In the past, some storeowners would comply with the city’s informal requests to push the “obscene” materials to the back of the store initially. Within days, though, the materials were back on the Boardwalk for people of all ages to see.

Ocean City’s goal is worth the effort but there are clear legal challenges as well.

***

There was a surprise wedding at AGH on Monday. Although the circumstances surrounding the quick union are sad, it was a story worth sharing.

According to the hospital’s Facebook page, Chris Dorsey and his finance Krista were engaged in December on a cruise. The plan was to get married this year, but Chris Dorsey’s severe illness led to him being hospitalized at AGH with a major health prognosis.

“As Chris’ health declined, the couple decided they couldn’t wait any longer to say, ‘I do,’” the hospital’s Facebook page read, “With less than 24 hours to prepare, the hospital’s chaplain, cancer care team, medsurg team and an outpouring of friends and family came together to make their wedding dreams come true. The hospital’s chapel transformed, complete with floral arrangements, a professional photographer, a wedding cake and a small reception area.”

Though the prognosis is a sad one, kudos to the team at AGH for working together to make the ceremony special for the couple, as the 28year-old man faces declining health. Check out a picture of the couple on the hospital’s Facebook page. Kudos to the hospital’s team for carrying out the couple’s wishes under difficult circumstances.

Mayor breaks council tie on Bay Street EDU financing

Berlin agrees to five-year accord with developer on five-unit apartment building

By Tara Fischer Staff Writer

(Feb. 28, 2025) In a tie vote broken by Berlin Mayor Zack Tyndall, the Town Council approved a property owner’s request to purchase and finance four equivalent dwelling units (EDUs) for an addition to a Bay Strreet housing complex.

At the municipality’s Monday, Feb. 24 meeting of the Mayor and Council, the council authorized developer Zachary Grauer to finance four EDUs in his project to repurpose a vacant structure on the north side of his Bay Street parcel. The initiative would see the construction of five new apartment units. One unit will be a two-bedroom space, while the remaining four will be one-bedroom, around 700 to 800 square feet.

The discussion, which examined whether Grauer should be permitted to finance the EDUs rather than pay the $66,774 cost outright, was met with spirited debate, resulting in a tie that was broken by Tyndall. In the case of a stalemate, the mayor is given the authority to offer a vote by code.

Council members Steve Green and Jay Knerr supported the project. Council members Jack Orris and Vice President Dean Burrell opposed the motion, citing issues with the town’s financing policy, using taxpayer money to offer the loan and neighborhood overpopulation.

While Councilmember Shaneka Nichols was absent from Monday night’s meeting and could not participate in the vote, the mayor maintained that an earlier conversation between the two revealed that she had reservations regarding Berlin’s financing policy.

In 2017, the town approved a project that allows developers to finance

five or fewer EDUs over five years. The motion earlier this week aligns with the policy and permits Grauer to finance four EDUs from the town for $66,774 at 525 Bay Street. The developer is to pay a 10% deposit of $6,677 and be charged a 3% financing fee to cover administrative and staff costs.

Despite disapproval from some council members, the town has a precedent for offering Grauer a financing agreement, including previous deals with Sonrise Church, Twisters, Renaissance Plaza, Strawberry Fields and others. Officials said that the municipality has had success with the policy.

“As far as I know, we haven't had any defaults or delinquencies,” Town of Berlin Administrator Mary Bohlen said.

Still, the discussion was met with objection.

Burrell argued the proposed area is “busting at the seams,” and more housing units would increase traffic and population congestion on Bay Street. He added he approves of the developer’s plan to construct these apartments, but he does not believe it should be completed using taxpayer dollars. Instead, if the property owners wished to proceed, they should be solely responsible for the funding.

“The area is saturated now and is overpopulated,” Burrell said. “This project will add to that situation. I think this project is detrimental to the Town of Berlin. It will impact the quality of life in neighboring areas… This is your project, and I really do believe that it should be completed on your dime.”

Tyndall reminded the council and the public that Grauer is not receiving a price cut. Instead, he has agreed to pay the full EDU cost within five years.

“[The developer is] not getting a discount,” the mayor said. “He’s paying a premium for the EDU and just

OPA budget OK’d with assessment increase

Directors show support for new membership package at Racquet

Sports Center

By Tara Fischer Staff Writer

(Feb. 28, 2025) The Ocean Pines Association Board of Directors unanimously approved the fiscal year 2025-2026 budget at the community’s regularly scheduled meeting last Saturday.

The final spending plan includes revenues and expenses of $12,846,393 and sets the basic nonwater assessment rate, which consists of 6,775 lots, at $875 (up slightly from $850 in the current year but down from $883 two years ago).

The assessment rate for the 78 lots classified as non-water/estate is $1,313; the 1,361 water lots will have an assessment of $1,515 (up from $1,465 last year and $1,498 two years ago). The assessment for the six water/estate lots is $2,273, and the 288 water/ non-bulkhead lots will have an assessment of $965. The sole water/non-bulkhead/ estate lot assessment is $1,448.

“The budget approval vote is the culmination of a well-designed and proven process by [OPA General Manager] John Viola and his operational staff,” OPA Board of Directors member Jeff Heavner said. “This process provided transparency throughout multiple opportunities for opinion. This beautiful, bottomup balanced budget is the foundation of our strategy … to ensure Ocean Pines remains a premier community with exceptional value and quality of life.”

The budget was created with input and collaboration from Viola and his staff, the OPA Budget and Finance Committee, which is made up of community volunteers, the board, and public feedback. This included a Feb. 5 budget town hall, where homeowners had the opportunity to ask questions and express their concerns. The work towards completing the financial document began last September.

During this year’s budget process, a point of contention was the introduction of a single, overarching racquet center membership. Previously, residents could choose to purchase memberships for individual sports,

including pickleball, tennis, and platform tennis, which would grant them access to those activities only.

The decision to eliminate this old model and create the multi-sport combo was made to address costs associated with maintenance and operations at the center. Membership dues in the fiscal year 2025-2026 budget are now $495 for a family, $295 for individuals, $590 for the non-member family option, and $270 for a non-member individual.

The board members expressed their continued support of this decision ahead of the budget’s final approval last Saturday.

“We were told at our [budget review] session that there’s a $70,000 hole to cover in Racquet Sports,” Director Steve Jacobs said. “We’re talking about basic maintenance. Nets, seats, tables, umbrellas, fencing, electric [and] salaries.”

“Everyone’s got to share in the cost,” he added.

Director Elaine Brady noted that the membership modification is overdue.

Brady continued, arguing that past prices have been too low, contributing to the center’s struggle to generate revenue.

“Part of the reason that the racquet center has not been making money over the years is that the majority of the people who play there have had a membership rate well below the local market,” she said. “We’re just bringing that up a little bit so that we can get the racquet sports center into a positive position.”

All members of the board supported the budget.

“Not to support this budget, in my mind, would be fiscally irresponsible,” OPA Board Secretary John Latham said. “Each one of the directors did a thorough job in walking through their respective area of business.”

The entire spending plan can be viewed on Ocean Pines’ official website.

“I’ve always wondered why it wasn’t that to begin with,” she said. “The entire complex is for the benefit of all who play there, and the cost of maintaining that facility is borne by everybody there. Why each sport had a different membership number never made sense to me.”

Giving landfills a sporting chance

Worcester Prep junior joins national program to reuse and recycle old tennis balls

(Feb. 28, 2025) As the tennis season approaches, Worcester Preparatory School junior Catherine Cullen is teaming up with RecycleBalls to help prevent tennis balls from ending up in landfills.

RecycleBalls is a non-profit or-

Council split on EDU financing

Continued from Page 59 doing it over a set period of time… [He’s] not getting a gift from the taxpayers.”

Tyndall and the two council members who supported the motion emphasized that the project aligns with the strategic plan objective of increasing the town’s affordable housing.

“We have financed a lot of projects,” Green said. “… I feel that we need to be consistent. To me, affordable housing is in the strategic plan document … we can't pick and choose what that means and what that looks like. I don't look at it as getting done with taxpayer dollars. There’s no harm to the residents. I think that we are allowing affordable housing to move forward.”

Orris argued that the town should not be in the business of offering loans.

“I am not sure this is a road we should delve down to any further,” the council member said. “We are not a bank.”

However, given the current policy, supporters of the Bay Street financing maintain the the project aligns with the 2017-approved guidelines. While it would be easier for developers to pay the entire sum at once, Tyndall said that the standard is in place, and if it is “palatable” for the property owners to take advantage of it, then the governing group must honor that request.

“If we still stand by that policy, then they are fitting squarely within the mark,” the mayor said.

The EDU financing agreement was ultimately approved Monday night. However, to address the policy concerns that emerged during the discussion, the 2017 guidelines will be reviewed at the March 24 Mayor and Council meeting following a motion by Orris.

“If you have language or alterations to this policy, or if you feel it needs to be removed entirely, that is the direction that we need because it sends the wrong message to the public,” Tyndall said, addressing the council.

ganization dedicated to reusing and recycling as many tennis balls as possible across the United States. Millions of used tennis balls contribute to landfill waste, and the materials they are made from can take approximately 400 years to decompose.

Catherine learned about RecycleBalls through a family member acquainted with the organization's founders. She discovered that they were seeking assistance in promoting their initiative in various regions.

“I enjoy playing tennis and am very concerned about this environmental issue, which is why I want to get involved,” Catherine stated.

“Many student ambassadors have participated in this program, and being one in this area would greatly

support this cause and benefit our environment.”

With Berlin located near numerous tennis courts and resort towns, Catherine hopes to collect a significant number of used tennis balls. Once the minimum of 100 or more tennis balls are gathered, they will be shipped to RecycleBalls in Vermont. There, these tennis balls will be repurposed into products such as horse footing, Green Gold (ground-up recycled balls used in tennis courts), and dog balls. The organization is also exploring additional ideas for repurposing, including t-shirts and shoes.

Tennis ball recycling containers are in Worcester Prep’s Athletic and Performing Arts Center. Donations will be collected throughout the tennis season this spring.

Museum offers scholarships for local high school seniors

Applications accepted for awards presented annually in honor of Hurley couple

(Feb. 28, 2025) The Ocean City Life Saving-Station Museum is currently accepting applications for the George and Suzanne Hurley Memorial Scholarship, now through May 13.

The George & Suzanne Hurley Memorial Scholarship in the amount of $2,000 is awarded to a graduating senior of Stephen Decatur High School, Worcester Preparatory School, Pocomoke High School and Snow Hill High School who plans to further his/her education in the fall at a four-year accredited college or university in the state of Maryland. The scholarship is nonrenewable.

This scholarship was established

in memory of two people who were the heart and soul of the Ocean City Life-Saving Station Museum from its beginning. Their dedication to documenting the history of Ocean City and preserving the 1891 U.S. LifeSaving Station that houses the museum spanned almost 40 years.

Applicants must submit one letter of recommendation from a non-family member (please do not use teachers or counselors) and a copy of the college acceptance letter. An interview may be required. The applicant must have an unweighted GPA of at least 2.5 that must be certified by a school counselor. The essay is required.

More information and the nomination form can be found on, www.ocmuseum.org/supportus/scholarship.

Spring Awakening: Germany’s last offensive

By Peter Ayers Wimbrow III Contributing Writer

(Feb. 28, 2025) This week, 80 years ago, the last German offensive was heading toward failure.

With its oil supply almost exhausted and the Soviets and Allies squeezing Germany from the east and the west like a vise, Germany was desperate. Realizing that, “desperate times call for desperate measures,” Hitler ordered much of the armor that had formed the strike force during the “Battle of the Bulge” to be withdrawn, refitted, brought up to strength, and transferred to Hungary in an attempt to retake the oil fields of the city of Nagykanizsa, near Lake Baleton, in western Hungary, and to defend Vienna from the Red Army.

But, at this stage of the war, bringing these units, “up to strength” was much easier said than done.

The units to be transferred were the I & II SS Panzerkorps, commanded by Hermann Priess and Wilhelm Bittrich. These two Panzerkorps contained the elite divisions of the German army — 1st SS Panzer Division Leibstandarte Adolf Hitler, 12th SS Panzer Division Hitlerjugend, 2nd SS Panzer Division Das Reich, and 9th SS Panzer Division Hohenstaufen.

As the war had begun turning against the Germans, these divisions were used as “fire brigades” to plug holes. Historically, their casualty rate was higher than other, regular divisions. But they were, now no longer the feared elite they once were.

The refit was to be completed by Jan. 30, 1945, and the units in place by March 5. However, considering the losses sustained by these units and the dearth of the Reich’s resources at this stage of the war, those dates were un-

realistic.

As might be expected, there were disagreements as to the use to be made of these very valuable armored units. Heinz Guderian, army chief of staff, argued that these units should be used in the defense of Berlin. Hitler’s response was, “You want to attack without oil – good, we’ll see what happens when you attempt that!” As usual, Hitler won the argument.

Finally, the order was given for the last German offensive — “Operation Spring Awakening” — to begin on March 6, 1945. The Sixth SS Panzerarmee, commanded by Josef “Sepp” Dietrich, attacked on the south of the lake.

Dietrich’s Sixth SS Panzerarmee consisted of the I & II SS Panzerkorps, reinforced with the 25th Hungarian Infantry Division. The reconstituted Sixth Army, commanded by Hermann Balck attacked along the north side of the lake.

Gen. Balck’s Sixth Army consisted of the III Panzerkorps and IV SS Panzerkorps, commanded by Hermann Breith and Herbert Otto Gille. A total of 400,000 German soldiers, 375 tanks, and more than 3,000 pieces of artillery were involved.

The proposed German blow would fall on the Third Ukrainian Front, commanded by Marshal Fyodor Ivanovich Tolbukhin. Marshal Tolbukhin’s Third Ukrainian Front included: Twenty-Sixth,

Twenty-Seventh, Fifty-Seventh, Fourth Guards, First Bulgarian, Yugoslavian Third, Armies, commanded by Nikolai Alexandrovitsch Gagen, Sergei Georgievich Trofimenko, Mikhail Nikolaevich Sharokhin, Nikanor Dmitrievich Zakhvatayev, Vladimir Dimitrov Stoychev, and Konstantin “Kosta” Na Soviet intelligence had forewarned Marshal Tolbukhin of the pending German attack, and his troops had prepared — electrified barbed-wire, minefields, antitank barriers, integrated into the muddy terrain, traversed by canals.

By the time the German assault began, the ground had begun to thaw and the rains had come, leading Dietrich to remark, “The roads are catastrophic.” There were very little, if any gains made that first day. But gradually German forces ground forward.

The slow but steady advance made Marshal Tolbukhin so nervous that he requested reinforcements and relocation to the rear. Stalin replied, “Comrade Tolbukhin, if you are thinking of prolonging the war for another five or six months, then by all means order your troops to move back. It will undoubtedly be quieter there. But I don’t think that is what you want. The defense must therefore be conducted on

the left bank of the Danube, and you too should remain there with your staff.”

By March 11, Axis forces had removed 20,917 mines, and had suffered more than 12,358 casualties. But the Soviets had suffered 32,899, and lost 152 tanks and 415 antitank cannons.

By then, it was clear that “Operation Spring Awakening” was going to fall far short of its objectives. Therefore, the German field commanders advocated for a cessation of the Operation to regroup, conserve their resources, and prepare for the Soviet onslaught, which they knew was coming.

However, not until 9:30 p.m., on March 15, 1945 did Hitler authorize it. It was too late. The next day, Marshal Tolbukhin’s Third Ukrainian Front began its spring offensive to expel the Axis from Hungary, and capture Vienna. Vienna was captured on April 13. By then, Dietrich joked, “Sixth Panzer Army is well named — we have just six tanks left!”

As a result of the failure of Spring Awakening, Hitler ordered the SS divisions to remove their cuffbands, because, in Hitler’s words, they, “...did not fight as the situation demanded.”

The cuffbands were worn by the

Continued on Page 64

Sepp Dietrich wearing Knight's Cross with Oak Leaves and Swords

WALTER POVLOSKI

Ocean Pines

Walter “Walt” Povloski passed away peacefully at home in Ocean Pines with his family (including the dogs) by his side on Wednesday, Jan. 22, 2025.

Born in Cleveland, Ohio to the late Clarence and Caroline Liptak Povloski, he was the oldest sibling of two sisters and one brother. Walt graduated from West Geauga High School, class of 1964, soon after entered The United States Marine Corps “Oorah”! While stationed at NSA, he met the love of his life, Janice. Soon after moved to Linthicum where he and Janice raised their son and daughter until they moved to Ocean City in 1997. After serving his country, Walt entered an electrician apprenticeship then changed his career path by entering the Fire Academy where he heroically served his community for 25 years with the Anne Arundel County Fire Department.

A devoted son, brother, husband, father, grandfather, brother in law, uncle, US Marine, firefighter, and friend, he will always be remembered as the life of the party, his jokes, making everyone around him laugh, being a prankster and always willing

to help others; without hesitation. He enjoyed spending time with his family, friends, dogs and birds; cheering for the Ravens, Browns, Indians, Orioles, and O-HI-O State Buckeyes; cooking, duckpin bowling, flag football, coaching his kids sports teams, Hot Rods, his cup of coffee, Coors Light, Captain Morgan, and margaritas.

He is survived by his son and daughter, Christopher and Amy Povloski; sister-in-law, Judy Hoffman; grandchildren Pierce and Peyton Redmond; siblings Paula Heckman Povloski and Michael Povloski; and a number of nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife Janice Hoffman Povloski and Sister JoAnn Povloski Gura.

Cremation followed his death. Please join Christopher and Amy as they celebrate Walt’s life the only way he wanted: With family and friends, great food, cold beer, peach moscato, music, and laughter. For those traveling from out of town and in need of accommodations, please reach out to Christopher or Amy.

Walt’s Celebration of Life will be held Saturday, March 1, from 5-9 p.m., at Sisters Wine Bar & Gift Store, 113 N Main Street, Berlin, Md. 21811. Letters of condolences can be sent to the family via www.holloway. In

lieu of flowers, donation may be made in Walt’s memory to US Kennels Inc: Whose mission is to train and provide service dogs for disabled Veterans and first responders on the Eastern Shore of Maryland and Virginia.

Warrior Dog Foundation: who transitions our country’s working K9s from an operational environment into retirement. Providing mental and physical rehabilitation, and rehoming options to Military Working Dogs (MWD), Contract Working Dogs (CWD) and Law Enforcement K9s that otherwise would be euthanized.

GEORGE EDWARD BECKETT Ocean Pines

George Edward Beckett, age 86, of Ocean Pines, formerly of Pasadena, died on Jan. 29, 2025.

Olivia. He was predeceased by a daughter, Teresa M. Beckett, the child of his first marriage.

Following graduation from Glen Bernie High School in 1956, he forged a career as a professional electrician earning his Master’s License in 1972. He was a founding member of Materials Handling Systems, Inc. of Howard County, using his talents to design, construct and sell robotic equipment to many major businesses.

George was a 170-year member of the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks Lodge 2645 of Ocean City. As dedicated fans of all Baltimore sports, he and Barbara followed the Colts Coral to Miami for the AFC/NFC championship game now known as the Super Bowl V.

With a reputation for kindness, integrity and generosity that will long survive his passing, George was known as a true gentleman. He will be missed by his many friends, relatives and co-workers whose lives he touched.

George was born May 18, 1938, in Baltimore, the only child of the late George W. and Estelle A. Beckett. He is survived by his dedicated and loving wife of 50 years, Barbara (nee Woehlke), who he often affectionately called “Steve.” George is also survived by a son, William, two grandchildren, Billy and Brittany, and two great grandchildren Colton and

CHRISTINE ELLIS Ocean City

Christine “Chris” Carolan Ellis, 72, born on June 6, 1952, passed peacefully on January 27, 2025 in Phoenix, Md. She is survived by her husband Edward J. Ellis; her sister Angie Carolan Hall; her brother John E. Carolan, Jr.; her stepson Michael Mills; her grandchildren Christian and Faith Ellis; and many more family and friends. She was predeceased by her dear parents, Angela Marie Carolan (nee Bockstie) and John Edward Carolan.

Chris graduated from the Institute of Notre Dame in Baltimore in 1970, where she was senior class president and was still regularly gathering with her classmates until her passing. She

Continued on Page 65

WORLD WAR II

Continued from Page 63

elite SS divisions and contained the name of the division. This was an insult to the involved divisions. Other than that, it was of no consequence, since any of them with any sense were removing them before capture by the Red Army, which applied “special treatment” to members of the SS in retaliation for the “special treatment” the SS had shown Soviet citizens and soldiers.

Next week: Tokyo firebombing 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.

George Beckett

Chris Ellis

Walter Povloski

Continued from Page 64

had a very successful career in food sales and was instrumental in the development of her and her husband’s Wine Rack businesses on the Delmarva Peninsula.

Chris had a love of Golden Retrievers having seven of them over the past 50 years. Chris included her dogs in every aspect of her life bringing happiness and comfort to those in need. She was a role model for others in her active participation with Pets on Wheels (Maryland) and Canine Assisted Therapy (Florida) and could be seen multiple times weekly with her dogs, comforting patients and staff at the St. Joseph Medical Center. She is survived by Rocky and Addie.

Funeral services were held.

In lieu of flowers contributions in Chris’ memory should be made to Pets on Wheels of Maryland, P.O. Box 44176, Baltimore, Md., 21236, petsonwheels.org or Canine Assisted Therapy, 1040 NE 45th Street, Oakland Park, Fla., 33334, catdogs.org.

MICHAEL HRECHKA

Berlin

Michael Hrechka, age 95, passed away on Tuesday, Feb. 18, 2025, in Salisbury. Born in Vita, Manitoba, Canada, he was the son of the late Wasyl and Mary Bugucka Hrechka. Mike was a dedicated laborer most of his life. As a teen, one summer, he worked as a lumberjack. Before marriage and later when starting a family,

he worked at an iron foundry producing iron train wheels. While working at the foundry in 1956, right after Debbie was born, he started farming mink. About 1960 steel replaced iron and the iron foundry shut down. Mike expanded his mink farm several times. At the Canadian National Mink Show in 1967 Mike won first place with dark and medium brown mink and second place with light brown. The same year he moved his family and mink to a larger farm in Minnedosa, Manitoba. By the end of the same year unfortunate events brought Mike’s mink farm to an end. In early 1968 he was sponsored to manage a mink farm in Millville, New Jersey. His family had to remain in Winnipeg, Manitoba. On September 28, 1968 his family was permitted to travel to the United States and join him. Summer 1969 he moved his family to Berlin, Maryland. He worked at Eastern Animal Foods for almost twenty years. While working at the animal food factory he purchased a farm this time raising chickens and pigs. After about a year he specialized in raising pigs. On one occasion Mike received a letter from the University Of Maryland Department Of Agriculture that a hog they purchased from him was found to have 12% less body fat than a typical hog.

This garnered Mike preferential treatment and a premium price for his pigs from that day forward. Mike raised pigs for over twenty years. Old enough to retire he got a job driving a tractor at a local golf course cutting the grass on the fairways. Hard work was never a guarantee for success.

In his own way Mike loved animals and over the years he adored all his pets.

For many years, Mike and Joyce attended Holy Trinity Ukrainian Orthodox Church of the USA, outside Whaleyville. Mike was the president of the church. He assisted the priest for many years like an altar boy. Both Mike and Joyce relished in the company of church friends and parishioners.

In his late 70’s Mike sustained a stroke with miraculous recovery. In the last few years health issues started to accumulate. On February 18, 2025 at 12:32 pm Michael Hrechka’s soul left his body, free of

pain he could join God in Heaven. He is survived by his wife, Joyce Hrechka; two sons, Dr. Kenneth Hrechka (Katherine), and Brian Hrechka (Sue); two daughters, Deborah Parker (Michael), and Cheryl Hrechka; four grandchildren, Sean Parker (Keemia), Ashley Gibbs (Jeff), Julia Hrechka, Michael Hrechka, Breann Green (Dylan), and Will Hrechka; four great grandchildren, Addison Gibbs, Ava Gibbs, Kameron Parker, and Nova Green; and several nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a brother, John Hrechka, and two sisters, Effie Kowaluik, and Nellie Susik.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Michael’s name can be to Holy Trinity Unrainian Orthodox Church, 7927 Circle Rd., Whaleyville, MD 21872, or The Worcester County Humane Soci-

Continued on Page 66

M. Hrechka

Continued from Page 65

ety, 12330 Eagle’s Nest Rd., Berlin, MD 21811.

A funeral service will be held on Tuesday, March 4, at The Burbage Funeral Home in Berlin. A viewing will be held one hour prior. Interment will follow at Evergreen Cemetery in Berlin. Letters of condolence can be sent to the family via www.burbagefuneralhome.com.

Arrangements are in the care of The Burbage Funeral Home.

ELIZABETH “LU” CANO

Bishopville

Elizabeth “Lu” Cano, beloved wife, mother, grandmother and aunt, passed away peacefully on Feb.25, 2025.

Lu was born in Munhall, Pennsylvania on July 9, 1939. She was preceded in death by her parents Amedeo and Matilda Dorsogna, her brother Phil Dorsogna and her sister Anita Sullivan.

Lu is survived by her loving husband of 33 years, Richard; her children, Brian Kissel, Cherie Townsend (Ed) and Brett Kissel (Rachael); stepsons Scott Cano (Diana) and Todd Cano (Shawn); and grandchildren Peyton Townsend, Logan Townsend, Sophie Kissel, Ryan Kissel, Mason Cano and Sawyer

Cano.

Lu earned her bachelor’s degree from Mercyhurst College and her master’s degree from Boston College. After starting her career as an educator, she risked leaving education and joined the federal government working as a public relations consumer affairs specialist with NOAA/National Marine Fisheries for the next 25 years, before retiring to Maryland’s Eastern Shore.

Lu spent some of her time during those years volunteering in her community at Montgomery General Hospital and the Olney Theatre and working part time at the Silo Inn. Lu lived her life as a dedicated catholic. She was active in the church taking the roles of a lector speaker, CCD teacher and Eucharistic minister for many years at St. Peters Church in Olney before becoming a member of St. John Neumann Church in Ocean Pines.

Lu adored her three children. She was their guiding light, rock, and always there to support, advise and love fully. Although the family’s number one worrier, she was also the calm in the storm and the strength needed when faced with life’s ups and downs.

Lu spent her retirement years traveling the world with her husband Rich, dining, boating, playing bridge and enjoying time with friends. Above all, being a grandma brought

her the ultimate unconditional love and joy.

As a grandma, Lu attended countless games, graduations, ceremonies and celebrations. Both Grandpa and Grandma celebrated every grandchild’s milestone and accomplishment as their number one supporters and cheerleaders.

She lives in those she left behind in love with beautiful memories she has left us all.

Lu’s life will be celebrated at a visitation on Saturday, March 8 from 1011 a.m. at Burbage Funeral home with a service immediately following at 11 a.m.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Alzheimer’s Association.

Arrangements are in the Care of The Burbage Funeral Home in Berlin, Maryland. Condolences may be shared with the family via www.burbagefuneralhome.com.

ALEXANDER “GEORGE” MONIODIS Berlin

Alexander “George” Moniodis passed away on Sunday, February 23, 2025. He is survived by his beloved wife, Mary Ann Moniodis; his daughter, Calli Pettit, and son-in-law, Marcus Pettit. He also leaves behind his cherished grandsons, Brady and Logan. George is predeceased by his father John, mother Grace, and beloved brothers Jimmy and Billy. His sister, Angela Sivia of Arkansas,

and her family also mourn his passing.

$1,595.

George was known for his infectious positivity, generous heart, and love of a good gathering. He had a remarkable ability to bring people together, whether through hosting lively parties or cooking for friends and family. A devoted sports fan, he never missed a Baltimore Ravens or Orioles game and could recall any statistic at a moment’s notice.

A private burial will take place, followed by a celebration of life in April. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research in his memory.

George’s warmth and spirit will be deeply missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing him.

GERRIE ANNE MUMFORD

Berlin

Gerrie Anne Mumford, age 79, of Berlin, passed away at Tidal Health Hospital on Feb. 15, 2025 surrounded by her loving family. Born in Cambridge, she was the daughter of the late Jerry Del Guereio and Eulalia (Carey) Del Guereio. She was the wife of Charles Edward Mumford III “Ned”.

In addition to her husband, Gerrie is survived by her three sons, Carey, Jason and wife Brooke and, Aaron and wife Heather; and four grandchildren, Wyatt, Charlie, Taylor and, Jackson. Gerrie also leaves behind her three sisters, Trudy Dennis, Jo Sue Livesay and husband Don and, Linda Palmer and husband Alan, as well as several nieces and nephews.

Gerrie was a devoted wife, mother and grandmother. She was an avid gardener and artist. Gerrie served as the president of the Berlin Little League for several years as well as chairman for the Christmas Bazaar for Worcester County School from 1978 to 1979. She worked as a hair stylist for many years. Working at Bessie’s Beauty Shop, Nellie’s Beauty Shop and, her own business Gerrie’s Hair Garage for over 40 years.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date.

Memorial contributions may be made to St. Mary’s Star of the Sea Catholic Church, 208 S. Baltimore Ave., Ocean City, Md. 21842.

Obituary Submissions E-mail: editor@oceancitytoday.net

Gerrie Mumford

A. Moniodis

Elizabeth Cano

Sports & Recreation

Decatur claims first Bayside championship in eight years

By Bruce C. Walls Contributing Writer

(Feb. 28, 2025) Stephen Decatur’s boys basketball team captured its first Bayside Championship title since 2017 on Tuesday.

Both teams were undefeated in the conference with Decatur winning the Bayside South and Cambridge taking the Bayside North.

The teams are familiar with each

other, as Cambridge knocked off Decatur last year to win its first Bayside Conference title.

Senior guard Davin Chandler started the evening off with a driving shot to set the early pace. With 3:42 left in the first quarter, however, the Seahawks were down 4-2. Then Seniors Caleb Loring and Noah Tucker each made baskets to assist Chandler’s seven points, ending the quar-

ter with 11-8 margin.

In the second quarter, the Seahawks started pouring it on with Chandler and Judah Carmack scoring three baskets each with another three points from Johnathan Purnell and a bucket from Solomon David. At the half, Decatur led 28-19.

In the third quarter, Chandler scored 10 more, David added five and Carmack and Loring each dropped two baskets. Going into the 4th quarter, Decatur held a commanding lead, 47-32.

Though play got a little sloppy with turnovers by both teams, Decatur hung out to win, 60-48.

Chandler scored seven in the fourth quarter, leading him to be the game-high scorer with 30 points.

“It feels amazing to win the Bayside Championship don’t know how many points I made but everyone counts,” said Carmack. “It feels great to represent Stephen Decatur.”

A happy Head Coach BJ Johnson said, “I feel great, this is all about these kids. I am just so excited for them; they’ve worked hard for this and they deserve everything they got.”

Next week, on March 4, Stephen Decatur will host the regional state tournament as the No. 1 seed.

PHOTO COURTESY SUSAN TAYLOR-WALLS

Senior Noah Tucker sinks a jumper in the first quarter on Tuesday night to help the Seahawks take an 11-8 lead into the second quarter.

PHOTO COURTESY SUSAN TAYLOR-WALLS

Judah Carmack converts in Tuesday’s championship game at the Wicomico Civic Center.

PHOTO COURTESY SUSAN TAYLOR-WALLS

After the final buzzer, Stephen Decatur’s basketball players gathered with their coaches.

PHOTO COURTESY SUSAN TAYLOR-WALLS

Senior Davin Chandler, who scored 30 points in the championship game, was named Bayside player of the year.

DECATUR BOYS WIN BAYSIDE; GIRLS TAKE 2ND

Stephen Decatur’s wrestling teams competed in the Bayside Conference Championship last weekend with the boys winning the crown and the girls securing runner-up. Members from both teams are pictured left with their coaches. Eleven individual wrestlers won top honors in their respective weight divisions. The champions, pictured below,

SUBMITTED PHOTOS/ OC TODAY-DISPATCH

PHOTOS COURTESY NICK DENNY

DECATUR HOSTS BENNETT IN PLAYOFFS After

73-22 crushing of Crisfield, Stephen Decatur High finished its regular season with a 14-5 record, good enough for the second seed in the MPSSA 3A East Region playoffs. Decatur is slated to take on No. 3 seed Bennett (13-6 on the season) on Monday at home in the region semifinals. Above left, senior Allison Swift converts in the paint earlier this season over Parkside. Above right, freshman Maleah Blake heads up court against Snow Hill with encouragement from Head Coach Corey Holland.

were Melani Ruiz, Makaiya Robinette, Amari Purnell, Chaniah Bernier, AJ Johnson, Juan Hinojosa, Elijah Collick, Aaron August, Jake Saullo, Amarian Manuel and Nate McDaniel.

Decatur swimmers break records

Team travels to University of Maryland, competes in MPSSAA championship

(Feb. 28, 2025) The MPSSAA Swimming and Diving Championship was held at University of Maryland last weekend with every swimmer on the Stephen Decatur High School team setting season best and personal records.

On the girls side of the meeting, Decatur’s top finisher was Kendall Bagley, who finished in second place in the 500 free.

Other Decatur girls results were:

200 medley relay, sixth place, Olivia Mongelli, Kate Wanner, Kendall Bagley and Macie Groves; 200 free, 21st place, Kaolin Riser; 200 IM, fifth place, Kate Wanner, and ninth place, Kendall Bagley; 50 free, 21st place, Vienna Williams; 100 fly, ninth place, Macie Groves, 17th place, Kaolin Riser; 100 free, 20th place, Vienna Williams; 200 freestyle relay, seventh place, Macie Groves, Vienna Williams, Kendall Bagley and Kate Wanner; 100 back, 19th place, Olivia Mongelli; 100 breast, fourth place, Kate Wanner, ninth place, Macie Groves; and 400 freestyle relay, 12th place, Kaolin Riser, Olivia Mongelli,

Emma Walsh and Vienna Williams.

For the Decatur boys results, the top finisher was Vincent Schicchi, who finished in 13th place in the 100 back. Other finishers were the 200 medley relay, 15th place, Vince Schicchi, Ewan Betz, Bryce Gill and Jacob Demarest; 200 free, 14th place, Vincent Schicchi; 500 free, 12th place, Aiden Collins, and 15th place, Jake Harner; 200 free relay, 14th place, Jacob Demarest, Ewan Betz, Jake Harner and Vincent Schicchi; 100 back, 13th place, Vincent Schicchi; and 400 freestyle relay, 16th place, Jake Harner, Ben Stallings, Aiden Collins and Bryce Gill.

The MPSSAA Swimming and Diving Championship was held at University of Maryland last weekend with every swimmer on the Stephen Decatur High School team setting season best and personal records.

SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH

Kendall Bagley finished in second place in the state in the 500 free last weekend.