04/05/2024 OC Today-Dispatch

STUBBORNLY

Sports complex chase continues

City Council entertaining proposals from facility operations companies

Four offers submitted as officials wait to see if state will award the city $250,000 in bond money to help pay for site evaluation and preliminary design work. Officials have yet to acquire property for the facility, but say they want to be ready when they do. — Page 10

Newspaper claims in court police use of force reports are public documents, but city says they contain personnel information. — Page 6

Tickets on sale for OC air show Your Community

Ticket sales for the Aug. 24 and 25 event are underway and include an “Intro Sale Price” ending Mon. — Page 46

Hundreds rolled out of bed early on Sunday to view this gorgeous scene, listen to praise music and hear spiritual messages provided by the Ocean City Baptist Church’s annual Easter sunrise service.

OC floats reduced tax rate in FY25 budget

Property owners still may not see savings with higher assessments this year

By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor

(April 5, 2024) Resort officials are proposing a $168.8 million budget and a reduced tax rate for the coming fiscal year.

City Manager Terry McGean and Budget Director Jennie Knapp presented the Mayor and Council this week with the proposed budget for fiscal year 2025. The spending plan, totaling $168,859,445, features additional positions within the police department, step and cost-of-living adjustments for employees, and a tax rate of $0.4426 per $100 of assessed value.

“The budget reduces the current property tax rate from .4526 cents per $100 of assessed value, to .4426 cents per $100 of assessed value,” McGean said. “However, to be clear, due to increases in assessments, that is an increase of approximately four cents over what would have been constant yield.”

McGean told the council Wednesday the upcoming budget focuses on four priorities – public safety, employee compensation and benefits, tourism and marketing and infrastructure maintenance.

McGean noted that the town’s

workforce has evolved since the pandemic, as the number of part-time positions – particularly within the police and fire departments – has decreased. As a result, overtime has increased by nearly 30,000 hours.

Under public safety, McGean said there continues to be a shortage of part-time EMT/paramedic applicants. Adding to staffing challenges, he said, is the elimination of the seasonal officer program, which will end after the summer season.

“In order to offset the expected loss of the seasonal officer program, the budget includes funding five new full-time police officers for 12 months beginning July 2024 and five new full-time officers for six months beginning January 2025. In the interim, I would propose a police manpower study be conducted by an independent third party to make recommendations for the reorganization of the department and the number of necessary full-time sworn officers versus civilians. Because this summer we will still be able to utilize seasonal police officers, while the new full-time officers are in the academy, the bulk of the reduction in part-time salaries will not occur until FY26.”

McGean said the budget also features a step merit increase for all fulltime employees and a 3% cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) for

all employees. He noted that both the Fraternal Order of Police and the Ocean City Career Firefighter Paramedics Association also negotiated a 3% COLA in fiscal year 2025.

“The budget also maintains various signing and seasonal bonuses offered to critical part-time employees in FY24, along with continuing the overtime pay for beach patrol surf rescue technicians and tram drivers,” he added.

The spending plan also proposes a $519,000 increase in the advertising budget and four new full-time positions at the convention center. Officials have also increased the special events budget in preparation for the town’s 150th anniversary celebration, which will occur in the coming fiscal year.

Additionally, the budget fully funds the annual street paving and canal dredging projects. McGean said money will also be set aside to refurbish the Boardwalk arch at North Division Street and refresh the Boardwalk comfort stations, among other things.

“These are all pay-as-you-go projects,” he said.

Knapp said total revenues are estimated to increase $7.3 million in the coming year, mainly as a result of admissions tax, grants, property tax and other sources. She said the proposed

property tax rate would generate an additional $4.67 million for the town.

“The Homestead Property Tax Credit is available for the principal residents of a property …,” she added. “And since our tax rate is scheduled to go down for FY25, those people would receive a reduced tax bill.”

Officials noted that expenses are also estimated to increase as a result of additional personnel, pay increases and benefits, and more. They noted $4.7 million would be used from fund balance to pay for salary and pension increases and other items.

“However, it maintains the 17% reserve fund balance per policy, adds $1.5 million to the capital reserve fund and maintains reserve balances for additional pension and pay increases for in the future,” McGean said.

Officials are expected to meet over the next week to review budgets for each of the town’s departments. More information on the proposed budget and each of the budget work sessions can be found on the town’s website, oceancitymd.gov.

“I would like to thank all of the department heads and especially Jenny Knapp for working together to prepare what I believe is a very thoughtful and responsible fiscal year 25 budget,” McGean said, “and I look forward to reviewing it in detail during the upcoming meetings.”

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Relief bills weighed after bridge collapse

Rainy Day Fund could be used to replace wages lost by impacted port workers

By Tara Fischer Staff Writer

(April 5, 2024) Lawmakers in Annapolis scramble to pass emergency legislation for workers and businesses impacted by the collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore.

The Maryland General Assembly is working on legislation to address the collapse of the Key Bridge. The structure was hit by the cargo ship Dali on Tuesday, March 26, killing six construction workers. The supply chain is expected to take a hit as vessels have been unable to reach the Port of Baltimore since the incident.

The Port of Baltimore is the eighth

busiest port in America and is responsible for over 51 million tons of cargo a year, Senator Mary Beth Carozza (R38) said. It also indirectly employs 140,000 people.

According to Maryland Matters, Senate Bill 1188, sponsored by Senate President Bill Ferguson (D-Baltimore), would allow Governor Wes Moore to take from the state’s rainy-day fund to “offset lost wages and entice related businesses to remain at the Port of Baltimore.”

SB 1188, as written, would temporarily replace wages for port workers and contractors affected by the collapse, provide monetary assistance to businesses to keep their staff on the payroll, and allow the state Department of Commerce to “incentivize businesses to remain at Baltimore rather than relocate to other port cities.”

“The rescue and recovery from the collapse of the Key Bridge has proven that we are Maryland strong as we grieve the loss of life and work together at all levels in the government, community and private sector to restore this vital transportation link for our state and country,” said Carozza. “This legislation is essential to put an expedited and proven process in place to ensure the Key Bridge can be rebuilt in a timely and safe manner by giving the governor these emergency powers limited to critical infrastructure.”

Ferguson noted to Maryland Matters that the entire port is not closed. Instead, operations are significantly reduced because the channel is inaccessible. “The key folks that are most impacted are those who rely on the everyday comings and goings of cargo ships into and out of the Port of Balti-

more,” he said.

“The big thing, after the initial rescue and recovery operation, is to get the channel back open,” Delegate Wayne Hartman (R-38C) maintained.

SB1188 moved to the full Senate on Tuesday, April 2, after a unanimous vote in the Budget and Finance Committee. Maryland Matters reported that the group also added a few amendments proposed by the Moore administration.

One such amendment drafts a scholarship for the children of highway work employees who pass away on the job, and another eliminates the requirement that port workers job hunt to receive unemployment benefits, as the goal is to bring them back once normal operations resume. The last modification would allow the Maryland Transportation Authority to issue bonds so the Key Bridge can be quickly and effectively rebuilt at the right time.

Hartman hopes the federal government will fund the structure’s complete replacement, which is expected to cost over $1 billion.

“With the challenges with the Transportation Trust Fund, I don’t know how we would fill that,” the delegate said.

White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre announced Monday, April 1, that President Joe Biden will visit Baltimore on Friday, April 5. The president also promised that the federal government would cover the cost of the bridge’s replacement. However, the bill to ensure this has yet to pass Congress.

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Judge hears arguments in police records case

The Washington Post wants OCPD to release use of force records, video footage

By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor

(April 5, 2024) A circuit court judge will consider motions for summary judgment in a lawsuit The Washington Post filed against the Ocean City Police Department.

In a circuit court hearing last week, attorneys for both The Washington Post and the Ocean City Police Department presented their motions for summary judgment in a lawsuit the newspaper filed seeking police records under the Maryland Public Information Act. While the newspaper argues use of force records and internal reviews of highly publicized

Boardwalk incidents are public documents, the town contends such records are not subject to disclosure under Anton’s Law.

“The Washington Post has a very absolute position, that any use of force is subject to Anton’s Law,” Judge Brian Shockley said. “But (the defense) argues that it only applies to misconduct.”

In 2021, following two high-profile arrests on the Boardwalk, Post reporter Steve Thompson filed records requests with the Ocean City Police Department seeking data and internal reviews relating to police officers’ use of force. The complaint said the department failed to provide information for three of those requests –one seeking use of force data from Jan. 1, 2016 to June 30, 2021, one seeking internal reviews of two use of

force incidents that occurred on the Boardwalk in June of 2021, and one seeking all reviews and investigations of a lieutenant’s actions on the Boardwalk the night of May 31, 2020.

“At issue here, Mr. Thompson made three requests to the Department seeking records related to use of force by Ocean City officers, but he has not received all of the information he seeks and to which he is entitled under the law,” the complaint reads.

During last Thursday’s motions hearing, Bruce Bright, attorney for the Town of Ocean City, said two of the records requests were denied as they constituted personnel records. He noted that while Anton’s Law, which was cited in the newspaper’s lawsuit, allows the public access to police misconduct records, he argued the records in question did not involve misconduct.

blurred to protect juveniles and witnesses shown on the footage.

“They want an unredacted video tape,” he told the judge. “So we are at a standstill.”

For his part, Eric Feder, attorney for The Washington Post, said no exemptions under the Maryland Public Information Act applied in this case and that the newspaper had a right to access the requested records. He noted that even without Anton’s Law, use of force reports generated by officers are not classified as a personnel document.

‘In a way, to have public confidence in how the department is handling [use of force], information must be released.’

Attorney Eric Feder

“It’s an important statute but in this case it’s not pertinent to what’s at issue,” he said.

Bright explained all police department data relating to use of force is entered into an IAPro application known as BlueTeam. He said that data is also used as a personnel performance tool. Bright added that the department is not required to name officers involved in use of force incidents, but does so to track performance. When the Post received a spreadsheet of use of force data, he said the names of involved officers were not included.

“Because of how [the department] uses the BlueTeam and IAPro program, the inclusion of officers' names qualifies as a personnel record,” he said.

Bright also argued that any use of force recorded during an arrest or incident is reviewed by the department. He noted, however, that a use of force review does not equate to an investigation of misconduct. To that end, the department denied Thompson’s requests for documentation regarding the three Boardwalk incidents.

“The Washington Post believes every use of force, or review of use of force, should be regarded as misconduct,” he said. “That deviates from reality for this department.”

Lastly, Bright said the department offered to provide the Post with a video of the 2020 incident involving the police lieutenant, but with faces

“A simple record of what occurred, when it occurred and who was involved does not constitute a personnel record,” he said. Feder, however, said Anton’s Law does come into play with the three Boardwalk incidents, as the use of force reviews no longer constitute personnel records under the revisions to the Maryland Public Information Act. He added that Thompson had sought, and received, similar use of force records, including officers’ names, from neighboring jurisdictions in Maryland.

“In a way, to have public confidence in how the department is handling [use of force], information must be released,” he said.

Feder noted that the information Thompson requested from the Ocean City Police Department involved specific dates and incidents. He added that two of the incidents in question generated significant public interest and resulted in statements from the Ocean City Police Department and elected officials.

“Whatever form the reviews took, public interest is high and would fall under Anton’s Law,” he said.

Feder said the Ocean City Police Department should also disclose the unredacted video tape involving the 2020 Boardwalk incident. He said the video was not from a body-worn camera but from the town’s City Watch cameras.

“There’s no expectation of privacy, whether there are children there or not,” he said.

Both attorneys agreed there was no dispute of the material facts and were seeking summary judgment in the case. Shockley said he would issue his ruling on the motions for summary judgment once additional information was received from both attorneys.

Restaurant’s deck

addition approved by commission

By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor

(April 5, 2024) The connections of Saltwater 75 will move forward with the construction of a deck at the rear of the restaurant following site plan approval Tuesday.

The Ocean City Planning and Zoning Commission this week voted unanimously to approve a revised site plan for the construction of a 432square-foot deck at Saltwater 75. The application, submitted by Fisher Architecture, proposes the structure be built behind the existing restaurant overlooking the facility’s beach area.

“Currently this project is built out,” Planning and Community Development Director George Bendler said. “The restaurant is operational and has been CO’d. They are asking for a revision to add this 432-square-foot deck. As you can see, a deck is in the outdoor area currently. It does not increase the outdoor [dining] area, and they will not need to increase parking.”

Bendler said staff recommended approving the revised site plan, but with the condition that the town receive a deed of dedication for parking that was previously agreed upon.

“Their attorney is working on that,” he said. “We’d like to have that deed of dedication prior to issuing any building permits for this.”

While there was no issue with the revised site plan, Commissioner Palmer Gillis questioned why the project needed approval from the planning and zoning commission.

“Do we have to have this site plan approval for a 432-square-foot deck?” he asked.

Chair Joe Wilson said anything more than 200 square feet must have the commission’s approval. He noted, however, that it was a something the group could reconsider.

“It seems like a lot of energy and dollars for a deck,” Gilllis said.

With no further discussion, the commission voted unanimously to approve the revised site plan.

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OC reviewing potential complex operators

Four companies responded after task force agreed to explore consultant options

By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor

(April 5, 2024) The Town of Ocean City is reviewing proposals from companies interested in operating a planned sports complex.

As the resort continues to seek funding through the legislature and land for a proposed sports complex, City Manager Terry McGean said this week the Town of Ocean City has received four proposals – submitted by Laurel Hill Sports, Kemper Sports, The Sports Facilities Company and Eastern Sports Management/Ripken Baseball – for an operations consultant that would manage the facility.

The announcement comes months after the Mayor and Council, at the recommendation of the Ocean City Sports Complex Task Force, voted to seek proposals from facility operators.

“We have received four proposals for an operations consultant, and they are under review,” he said.

Mayor Rick Meehan said earlier this year bringing a professional operator on board during the planning phase of the project will allow the town to begin marketing the sports complex and soliciting sponsors so that there would be no operating deficit once the facility is developed. As part of the planning phase, the town is also seeking funds to support site assessment and design work.

“At this time there is $250,000 in the state capital bond request,”

McGean said this week. “This could change as things progress near the end of the session. The goal is to have enough funding to get us through site evaluation and preliminary design and costs estimates so we have good documentation to request full construction costs during the 2025 legislative session.”

In January, the Mayor and Council voted to spend up to $500,000 on site assessment and design work for the sports complex project, with funds to be reimbursed from a future bond issuance. While the work is projected at roughly $1 million, the town planned to fund half the cost and seek the remainder from the state.

According to officials, the idea is to have funding available once a property is identified to keep the project moving forward. With two other sports complex facilities currently proposed in Maryland, Del. Wayne Hartman (R-38) expressed concern the town will be in competition for state dollars.

consultant, Crossroads, to conduct a market and economic analysis for a proposed sports complex in the Ocean City area.

When the pandemic hit, however, MSA officials were tasked with revising the study and producing a sitespecific assessment of a 95-acre site next to Stephen Decatur High School.

While the county initially took the lead on the project, the Worcester County Commissioners in 2022 voted to terminate its contract for the purchase of the property and to end any county involvement in the development of a complex. Since that time, resort officials have agreed to take on the project and form a task force to address community concerns relating to the project’s location and scope.

“It is important to raise awareness of these other two complexes and evaluate their impact,” he told the OC Today-Dispatch last week. “There are only so many sports teams and places these groups can visit. Adding more choices will have a detrimental impact on Ocean City.”

‘A lot has to happen between now and then to make that goal.’

City Manager Terry McGean

With nearly 30 members at the table last fall, the task force kicked off its first meeting with a presentation from MSA and Crossroads, as well as from Sports Facilities Companies, a national firm specializing in sports facilities management. By the end of the meeting, the task force agreed a proposed complex should include both indoor and outdoor facilities but that more information was needed on the funding mechanism.

Assuming the Town of Ocean City receives state funding for construction, McGean said the goal is to break ground in mid to late 2026.

“A lot has to happen between now and then to make that goal,” he said.

For years, resort council members have expressed their desires to develop a sports complex somewhere near Ocean City. And in 2019, the town commissioned the Maryland Stadium Authority (MSA) and its

In December, the group reconvened to discuss funding options. In addition to its recommendations to the Mayor and Council, the task force also agreed to seek a 1% room tax increase from the Maryland General Assembly, with a portion of that additional revenue to be dedicated to debt service associated with the construction of the sports complex. Following its open session in December, the task force entered into a closed session to discuss property acquisition.

Commission talks mixed-use development

Resort planners continue review of land use, other details within comp. plan

By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor

(April 5, 2024) A discussion on land use and community character highlighted a comprehensive plan review this week.

On Tuesday, members of the Ocean City Planning and Zoning Commission continued their discussion on the town’s comprehensive plan, which is currently in the process of being updated. Looking at the land use and community character chapter of the planning document, commissioners discussed topics such as parking, pyramidal zoning and nonconformity.

“For the most part, even though it says land use is the most important part of the comprehensive plan … we also adopted a policy and a decision last time that we really wouldn’t change the direction of these policies significantly,” City Planner Bill Neville told the commission Tuesday. “When we went through the last update, we said the best thing we could do is keep on our current course.”

During his presentation, Neville highlighted the elements of the plan’s land use and community character chapter. He noted that it contained roughly 16 policies that touch on topics such as residential and commercial land use, parking and more.

Neville added that the chapter also contained land use maps. He said those maps should be changed to reflect new developments.

“Two blocks on the north end of town converted from commercial to 100% residential …,” he said. “If this is a land use map, we need to make that change, not only on our map but we need to make sure the state knows that change as well.”

A bulk of Tuesday’s discussion, however, focused on mixed-use development and pyramidal zoning. Commissioner Palmer Gillis said he wanted the comprehensive plan to encourage mixed-use projects, particularly as developers look to redevelop commercial lots.

“I’m seeing all these properties that could be available for a project like Sanibel,” he said. “And there was a movement years ago with the planning and zoning commission to provide an incentive for mixed use, but that seemed to have lost its flavor.

How do you encourage developers to provide something other than 1,000 townhouses with garages? How do you incentivize it?”

Gillis said he wanted to see commercial lots maintain their commercial uses, but that pyramidal zoning has allowed for residential development on those properties. Commissioner Joel Brous said he liked townhouse developments but didn’t want to see them throughout town.

“We want commercial products,” he said.

Commission Chair Joe Wilson recommended a policy that encourages mixed-use development if the lot meets a certain size threshold.

“I think the benefit of pyramidal zoning is you can change with the market, particularly for smaller sites …,” he said. “I think if you have a single lot, it’s hard to encourage mixeduse.”

Commissioners this week also talked about the protection of the seaside cottage character in the downtown district. Neville noted it was also a topic the Ocean City Development Corporation (OCDC) was reviewing.

“OCDC has been having this discussion of how practical it is to maintain this goal of seaside cottage character with potential redevelopment of blocks along the Boardwalk and in the downtown area that want to go up and create something big for downtown,” he explained. “So we have an opportunity to work with OCDC on that policy. If they feel there’s a changing need to address the downtown areas for a different concept, now is the time to bring it in.”

Neville also discussed a proposed code amendment to raise the height of the midblock in downtown Ocean City from three stories to four. He said the revision was initially proposed to encourage parking underneath buildings.

“If we’re going to loosen that policy, it should be with the intent of reducing or eliminating our nonconformity,” Gillis said.

Wilson, however, said OCDC had created downtown design standards to encourage community character and walkability.

“Raising buildings up and looking at cars kind of flies in the face of what is a walkable area,” he said. “I understand the argument for eliminating the parking nonconformity … It’s just a tough balance to maintain that character.”

After further discussion, Neville said he would continue to make changes to the chapter. He said he would also invite members of the OCDC to the next commission meeting, during which members will discuss downtown development.

“The goal is to have all the content information complete and graphics ready for a public hearing by the end of June,” he said.

New billing procedures for meter malfunctions OK’d

By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor

(April 5, 2024) Officials this week agreed to change the town’s utility code to adopt new billing procedures for malfunctioning water meters.

On Monday, the Mayor and Council had before it a second reading of an ordinance that adopts procedures for water consumption billing when a water meter malfunctions. The ordinance was first introduced at a meeting in March.

quarterly reading is when we would discover that we have what we call a zero-read meter,” he said. “That means months have gone by that we would have been unable to capture revenue. So we are suggesting a code amendment, as indicated in your agenda packet, that would allow us to do a three-year averaging over that quarter in fairness to both the municipality and to the property owner.”

“It is our goal to modify the code by adding a section that will acknowledge and provide a mechanism for us to bill individuals when we discover there's a malfunctioning meter,” Public Works Director Hal Adkins explained at the time. “Obviously this has gone on in the past. It will continue to go on in the future.”

In a work session March 12, Adkins presented council members with an ordinance that provides a method to codify the public works department’s practices for when a water meter malfunctions. While he acknowledged that meters fail, Adkins said the proposed code amendment would allow the town to recoup some of the lost revenues when they do.

“Normally when we're doing a

With no further discussion, the council this week voted 6-0, with Councilman John Gehrig absent, to approve the ordinance on second reading.

The council this week also voted to approve the first reading of an ordinance that modifies parking at the redeveloped Downtown Recreation Complex. City Solicitor Heather Stansbury said the change, made to an appendix of the town code, will allow for head-in parking along 3rd and 4th streets.

“It also notes the removal of some spots from the closed portion of Chicago Avenue between 3rd and 4th streets,” she said, “and it clarifies some details on the meter location as they existed in the appendix in 2023.”

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Legislature approves $63B spending plan

By Tara Fischer Staff Writer

(April 5, 2024) Members of the Maryland House and Senate reached an agreement on the budget Wednesday while Eastern Shore lawmakers addressed local bills, including one that could increase race days at Ocean Downs.

A budget impasse appeared certain on Monday. While the Senate refrained from imposing additional taxes, the House approved more than $1 billion in fee surges to help fund the Blueprint for Maryland’s Future, the costly mandated state education plan, and the Transportation Trust Fund. Del. Wayne Hartman said the increases included raising the vehicle excise tax from 6% to 6.5%.

However, on Wednesday, the two bodies came to an agreement. While the approved budget maintains some

tax increases, such as on tobacco products and vehicle registration, House Minority Leader Jason Buckel assured the more “broad-based and draconian tax increases have been avoided.” The vehicle excise tax, for instance, will not be raised.

“We think it’s a pretty strong deal, both sides can be satisfied,” House Appropriations Chair Ben Barnes (D-Prince George’s and Anne Arundel) told Maryland Matters. “It’s truly a compromise.”

According to Maryland Matters, the Fair Share Act has been nixed from the agreement. The bill, which was favored by the House, would have required combined reporting of corporate profits for companies and subsidiaries in the United States, imposed higher taxes for the wealthiest Maryland residents, and raised estate taxes.

The proposed iGaming, which al-

lows for all casino-style games on mobile phones, laptops, and desktops, was also shot down as was a fee for package deliveries and online retail orders.

The compromised budget increases funding for the Transportation Trust Fund by roughly $250 million for the first year but will reach $320 million$350 million over the next three years. This additional monetary support will in part come from a surcharge on electrical and hybrid vehicle registrations.

“We are grateful that ultimately, cooler heads prevailed during the budget negotiations,” House Minority Whip Jesse Pippy said. “Our Caucus will continue to advocate for less taxes, lower fees, and a more affordable state in which to live, work, and raise a family.”

The Senate also deliberated the capital budget this week, which includes

significant funding for Worcester County. Sen. Mary Beth Carozza said a proposed $1.61 million for the Maryland State Police Berlin Barrack and $250,000 for the proposed Ocean City Sports Complex will be considered.

House Bill 1524 is also a proposed bill that could have a local impact, specifically on Ocean Downs Casino. Hartman said the legislation would transfer Pimlico Racetrack, the site of the Preakness, from the Canada-based Stronach Group to the nonprofit Maryland Thoroughbred Racetrack Operating Authority.

Maryland Matters reported that this would allow the state to be “redeveloped into a modernized horse racing facility.”

Part of the bill calls for transferring Rosecroft Raceway’s share of funding, another Stronach Group-owned racetrack, to the Maryland operation. Essentially, the proposed law would reallocate monetary support from the harness, or standardbred, racing industry to the thoroughbred faction. Ocean Downs would continue to receive their share of the money, however.

If Rosecroft were to close, according to Hartman, Ocean Downs would add additional racing days, potentially increasing from 48 to 70.

“If Rosecroft does close, it would increase tourism and create more jobs at Ocean Downs. It would be a big win for our area,” Hartman said.

County favors more expensive roof

Commissioners approve $4.9M for proposed project at Snow Hill Middle School

By Charlene Sharpe Associate Editor

(April 5, 2024) The Worcester County Commissioners this week approved plans for a roof replacement at Snow Hill Middle School/Cedar Chapel Special School.

The commissioners voted unanimously on Tuesday to approve updated roof replacement plans presented by the Worcester County Board of Education. The plans have been updated to include demolition of the old roof so it’s not left in place under the new roof.

Last month, Superintendent Lou Taylor approached the commission-

ers seeking approval of a $3.7 million roof replacement project.

He said the school system had received bids for the project and wanted to proceed through the Garland/DBS turnkey project delivery method.

Worcester County Public Schools would purchase the roof material directly from Garland, resulting in savings through an elimination of contractor overhead and elimination of sales tax on the materials purchased, according to Taylor. The commissioners, however, questioned the fact that the old roof wasn’t being demolished.

“You’ll lose the new roof quicker that way,” Commissioner Joe Mitrecic, a builder, said at the time.

As a result of the commissioners’ comments, school system adminis-

tration went back to the Worcester County Board of Education. The school board on March 19 approved a base bid of $4.9 million for demolition of the existing roof and construction of the new roof. The commissioners went on to approve the $4.9 million roof replacement unanimously this Tuesday.

According to the school system, the higher price tag means there will be about a $875,641 deficit from the cost estimate in the capital improvement program.

To cover that deficit, some of the funding allocated for rooftop HVAC units at Pocomoke Elementary School will be used. The school system has also contacted the Interagency Commission on School Construction for an additional $472,000 in state funding.

Commissioners explore generator options for jail

By Charlene Sharpe Associate Editor

(April 5, 2024) County officials agreed to rent a temporary generator for the jail while plans for the replacement of the facility’s backup generator are explored.

The Worcester County Commissioners this week voted unanimously to have staff rent a generator to serve the jail while options to replace the disabled backup generator are explored. Commissioners said the temporary generator would ensure the jail had backup power in the event of an emergency.

“It’s a necessary thing for the jail,” Warden Tim Mulligan said.

Mulligan asked the commissioners this week to approve having Fidelity Power Systems rebuild the disabled generator for about $39,000. He said the backup generator was critical for the jail because when power failed it supplied power to the new section of the jail and also powered the fire pump.

“In the event of a fire it would activate the sprinkler system,” he said. “We have local water there that would, if the sprinkler was activated water would flow through, but the generator supplies additional pressure to that.”

When asked what happened to the generator, Mulligan said a clanking noise was noted in December. In February, crews dismantled the generator to determine the problem and deemed it in need of a rebuild.

While various companies were contacted for quotes, staff said Fidelity was the only one that offered a price for a rebuild rather than a replacement, which would exceed $84,000.

Commissioner Eric Fiori said a catastrophic failure like this one brought up a lot of questions.

“From reading the preliminary maintenance reports it sounds like

12 arrests after Jan. fight

The Worcester County Sheriff’s Office announced this week 12 individuals – six adults and six juveniles — have been charged for involvement in a brawl after a January high school basketball game.

The fight investigation took place after the basketball game at Snow Hill High School with Stephen Decatur High School on the evening of Jan. 18.

As a result of the investigation, six juveniles were identified as active in the fight. Juvenile Referrals have been completed for each and they’ve been forwarded to the Department of Juvenile Services.

In addition to the juveniles, six adults were identified who took an active part in the fight. Applications for charges were completed and presented to a District Court Commissioner for consideration in early February.

The District Court Commissioner found probable cause in each application and issued criminal summons on Feb. 2, according to court records, for Zyaire Nahshon Lamont Johnson, 22, of Snow Hill, second-degree assault (two counts) and disorderly conduct; Anthony Lamont Bibbins Jr., 18, of Snow Hill, second-degree assault and disorderly conduct; Gionni La Trae Murph, 25, of Salisbury, second-degree assault and disorderly conduct; Jowan Delone Clayton, 29, of Snow Hill, second-degree assault and disorderly conduct; Juliun Shabrian Holden, 19, of Snow Hill, second-degree assault and disorderly conduct; and Takhai Raijon Wise, 24, of Snow Hill, second-degree assault and disorderly conduct.

“To protect the identities of the victims, there shall be no further information released,” a press release from the Worcester County Sheriff’s Office read.

Taser settles suspect

A Pennsylvania teenager was arrested after assaulting two individuals and an officer last week.

Officers with the Ocean City Police Department were dispatched on March 26 around 10 p.m. to a fight in progress on Gull Way. Though the fight had reportedly ended, a suspect was reportedly trying to break into the caller’s condo. Four teenagers were

interviewed by police upon arrival who said Kevin Bonds, 18, of Norristown, Pa., was “all crazy,” according to the police report on the incident. Police located Bonds on a common area balcony who cursed at officers. Bonds was ordered to get on the ground but he refused to comply. Bonds then assumed a fighting stance and began assaulting the officer.

The officer in turn targeted Bonds with his Taser to gain compliance. Bonds then hit the ground as ordered when the Taser was pointed at him. Bonds was removed from the scene while police interviewed the individuals inside the unit Bonds was trying to get into. Two individuals were including a woman who had multiple lacerations to her face amid much swelling.

The woman told police she was walking with her dog when Bonds punched her in the face. Bonds followed her inside the unit and the assault occurred before a male was able to remove Bonds from the unit he had no permission to be within.

While an officer continued talking with the victim, Bonds became unruly and spit on another officer’s pants.

Bonds was charged with three counts of second-degree assault and two counts of breaking and entering.

Officers spit on

A combative man’s attempt to resist arrest resulted in charges after spitting on four resort police officers.

During the March 28 incident captured on Axon body worn camera, Ocean City police were called for a disorderly male at a local hotel who threatened to shoot a man. A police officer located a man, later confirmed to be Eliseo Ramos, 35, of Washington, D.C., in the passenger seat of a nearby vehicle pressing the vehicle’s horn repeatedly. When police approached, Ramos was uncooperative and refused to answer police questions. Ramos did consent to a search of his body which did not reveal any weapons. Before leaving the scene, Ramos requested his phone from inside the vehicle, which was now locked.

Police awoke a woman who was staying in the hotel room Ramos gave to police. The woman unlocked the vehicle but Ramos became agitated with police for waking up the woman

Continued on Page 24

Fiori questions maintenance

Continued from Page 22

this engine severely overheated and it could have been completely prevented,” he said. “Allowing the same company to rebuild the engine that was negligent on allowing it to overheat sounds counterproductive.”

He said he wanted the county to look at more options. Commissioner

Joe Mitrecic didn’t disagree but said in the meantime the county should get a temporary generator.

“The booster pump needs to be in operation,” he said.

The commissioners voted unanimously to rent a generator for the jail while staff explore other long-term options.

Continued from Page 23

and her children. Ramos began pumping his chest in a threatening way close to the officer, who pushed the man away from him because he believed he was going to be hit. According to the statement of probable cause, Ramos “began thrashing away from me in order to get closer to me.”

Ramos was placed under arrest for assault, but the suspect continued to battle with arresting officers refusing to allow handcuffs to be placed on him. Ramos continuously disobeyed orders and began spitting on any officer that came near him, resulting in a spit hood being placed on Ramos. The police report indicates he spit on four officers in the arresting process.

Ramos was charged with four counts of second-degree assault for his actions on the officers as well as a single count of resisting arrest.

Heroin arrest

A Delaware woman was caught with heroin during an enforcement detail last week.

On March 29, the Ocean City Police Department was conducting an enforcement detail focused on the downtown area surrounding an underage club. A detective working the detail observed a Chevrolet Impala driving without its lights on. A traffic stop was initiated, and the driver was

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identified as Diana Nauman, 18, of Milford, Del. There were four other individuals in the vehicle with Nauman and the officer noticed the smell of burning marijuana. The officer confirmed all the occupants were under the age of 21 and it’s illegal to possess marijuana under the age of 21.

A search of the vehicle found multiple white, wax folds inside a cosmetics bag. One fold was stamped “space ship” in red ink and contained an offwhite, powder substance recognized as heroin. Inside the bag police also found multiple forms of rolled bills with trace amounts of substance, confirmed the currency was used for snorting.

As the motorist, Nauman was charged with possession of a controlled dangerous substance of schedule I (heroin) and two counts of drug paraphernalia possession.

Drugs, gun replica

An alleged hit-and-run in Ocean City resulted in drug and illegal weapon charges.

On March 29, around midnight, Ocean City police arrived at the intersection of 8th Street and Philadelphia Avenue to investigate a vehicle collision. Two individuals on the scene told police they were driving southbound in a Jeep Patriot when a gold Honda Civic swerved across the lanes to make an abrupt left-hand turn on

8th Street. The Honda reportedly collided with the Jeep and did not stop. The Jeep sustained significant damage as did the Honda, according to the statement of probable cause.

Shortly after the collision, another police officer observed the Honda involved in the incident. The vehicle was missing a headlight, a hub cap and had damage to the left side of the vehicle including a front missing chrome grill accent. Police identified the driver as Erika M. Ferris, 40, of Blythewood, S.C.

Ferris immediately denied being involved in any accident, telling police the vehicle damage was from a previous incident. Ferris was placed under arrest for failing to stop after an accident involving vehicle damage. Prior to towing, police conducted an inventory of the vehicle, locating an illegal assisted opening knife in the center console and a replica handgun of a Colt 1911 on the floorboard behind the driver’s seat. On the driver side floorboard police located a brown vial containing a white powder. At police headquarters, Ferris told police the powder substance was “like an amphetamine,” according to the statement of probable cause. A test kit confirmed the illegal drug.

Ferris was charged with possession of a controlled dangerous substance of schedule II (amphetamine), knowingly transporting a gun replica and multiple citations related to leav-

ing the scene of the accident.

Bike theft charge

It was only an hour before Ocean City police located bikes stolen from a local business and made an arrest.

On March 31, around 10:45 a.m., four bikes were reported as stolen from a local bike rental business on 21st Street. The store employee told police he observed four males ride off on bikes but noted four were missing. City Watch cameras confirmed the report. The worker followed the suspects on the Boardwalk and reported two of the bikes were abandoned in a nearby alleyway. A description of the four suspects was distributed through police communications.

Around 11:44 a.m., Ocean City police were notified by another worker he had seen two of the suspects with the two bikes. As he approached them, the suspects took off on the bikes in opposite directions. One bike was found shortly afterwards in a parking garage with a male suspect, later identified as Parish M. Walters, Jr., 18, of Salisbury, acting suspiciously. The male worker confirmed Walters was one of the men who took off with the bikes. The recovered bike was valued at $150. The other men were not located.

Walters was charged with theft of at least $100 but less than $1,500.

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For Buxy’s, 25 years and counting as hometown bar

By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor

(April 5, 2024) A resort bar with “a flavor of the Burgh” is celebrating its silver anniversary.

This year, Buxy’s Salty Dog Saloon is celebrating 25 years of operation at its 28th Street location. After a quarter century in Ocean City, owner Douglas “Buxy” Buxbaum said he is eager to see what the next 25 years will bring.

“I can’t say thank you enough –the customers, the staff, the friendships,” he said. “And I look forward to another 25.”

Buxbaum got his start in Ocean City in the 1980s. While a student at Indiana University of Pennsylvania, he would spend his summers at the beach working for local establishments such as the Purple Moose, Brass Balls Saloon, M.R. Ducks, Shenanigan’s and Bull on the Beach.

It was these places, Baxbaum said, that taught him the ins and outs of the restaurant scene. And by 1988, he began looking for a place of his own.

“It got to the point where I was either going to buy a place or look elsewhere,” he said. “The Salty Dog was available – I heard through the grapevine – and things really went from there.”

With the support of his family, Buxbaum opened Buxy’s Salty Dog Saloon in April of 1999. He said those first years were spent building a business from the ground up.

“It was 20-hour days,” he recalled. “Back then, that’s what it was. My parents were very instrumental in helping secure the place. They put their house up as collateral. It was a leap of faith.”

With time, however, business grew. And with it, came the addition of a Western Pennsylvania and Pittsburgh theme.

“Me being from Western Pennsylvania, I wanted to bring in a little taste of Western Pennsylvania. At

that time, 30% of our tourism was from that area,” he said. “I slowly started putting up some memorabilia I had collected throughout the years. And after three or four years, rather than tiptoeing around it, I pushed all the chips in.”

Buxy’s Salty Dog Saloon soon became synonymous with Western Pennsylvania, Buxbaum said. It also brought in loyal customers.

“We just wanted to make this a hometown bar with a comfortable atmosphere, good food and friendly service,” he said. “Some of our patrons have been with us from the get-go.”

Buxbaum, however, said it wasn’t always smooth sailing. He recalled several challenging years, particularly during the Great Recession and COVID pandemic. But with time, business rebounded. And through it all, he said, staff, family and friends remained.

“I almost look at it as one of our greatest accomplishments,” he said.

When asked about his 25 years of operation, Buxbaum said it would not be possible without the support of his wife, family and community.

“I’m just humbled beyond belief … ,” he said. “It’s been a ride.”

In celebration of its 25th anniversary, Buxy’s Salty Dog Saloon will host events in April. On April 19, Teenage Rust will play during happy hour, which will coincide with a fundraiser for the American Cancer Society. And on April 20, the party continues with a performance from Muskrat Lightning.

“We’ll have something for everyone, and we’ll continue it throughout the summer with 25-year specials,” Buxbaum said.

For more information, visit buxys.com or the Buxy’s Salty Dog Saloon Facebook page. Buxy’s Salty Dog Saloon is open Thursday through Sunday, opening at 11 a.m. with hours expanding as the summer season nears.

SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH

Doug and Annie Buxbaum are pictured with their children, all of whom have grown up in the family business.

Foundation seeks donors for rec programs

(April 5, 2024) Each year, the Mary Mac Foundation supports hundreds of low-income and homeless children and their families, thanks to donations from locals.

The foundation funds summer camp scholarships for education and recreation programs, including Camp Ocean Pines locally, Camp St. Vincent in Baltimore, and Camp Barnes in Delaware.

Mary Mac also supports food banks and shelters, such as Diakonia in West Ocean City, the Cricket Center and Cold Center in Ocean City, Mid Shore Meals in Cambridge, and the Bayside Shelter in

Millsboro, Delaware.

The nonprofit is named for Mary McMullen (1948-2012), a former special education instructor at Severna Park High School and Ruth Eason School in Millersville. During the 1970s, she also helped establish the Ocean Pines Recreation and Parks Department.

Tim McMullen said in a news release that the foundation’s activities are inspired by his late wife, Mary.

“Many of us have found ourselves asking what Mary would do or say in certain situations,” he said. “Her generosity and unconditional love for her students, fam-

ily and community bound us together.”

McMullen is also driven by his own experiences growing up and later teaching in Anne Arundel County.

“The first year I taught, I was in a school that had just been integrated and there were eight kids who got there every day at 7 o’clock in the morning – school started at 8 a.m. I told one of my other teachers I was really impressed with these kids, but he said, ‘Tim, they don’t have heat at home,’” he said.

McMullen said food banks and area shelters became an added focus during the pandemic.

“We realized how many local families were being impacted,” he said. “In one of our programs, every Friday, teachers will take backpacks and fill them with food that the kids can take home.”

Tax-deductible donations may be made to the Mary Mac Foundation at paypal.me/marymacfoundation or by sending a check payable to the Mary Mac Foundation to 174 Nottingham Lane, Ocean Pines, Md. 21811.

“We thank you for your continued support and ask that, if it is within your means to donate, please consider doing so ...,” McMullen said.

Berlin Skate Park effort nearing fundraising goal

By Charlene Sharpe Associate Editor

(April 5, 2024) Skate park supporters say they’re just $7,500 from their next fundraising goal in Berlin.

We Heart Berlin, the nonprofit focused on bringing a skate park to Berlin, is in the midst of a fundraising push to raise $7,500. The funding will bring the nonprofit to the brink of actual construction.

“We are nearing the end of the design phase,” said We Heart Berlin’s Tony Weeg. “We’re just $7,500 short of our next goal, which gets us construction documents.”

While We Heart Berlin promotes healthy and sustainable activities and the creation of recreational opportunities throughout the town, one of its key goals since inception has been construction of a skate park in Berlin. In 2022, the nonprofit hired Spohn Ranch, a skate park design company, to look at potential locations and come up with a concept design. Last year, the Berlin Town Council officially voted to designate Heron Park as the future location of a Berlin skate park.

That was a key step, as it enabled We Heart Berlin to begin fundraising more formally. Weeg said this week the nonprofit was still focused on a 14,000 to 16,000 square foot skate park that would be located near the section of Heron Park where the town plans to construct a new public works facility. Weeg said the fact that the skate park would be located adjacent to the new building meant that development could proceed cooperatively, as considerations for things like parking, sewer and electric could be made around the same time.

“We’re going to be in lockstep with them,” Weeg said, adding that the skate park would be in front of the public works building.

He said the skate park was nearing the end of the design phase and fundraising was underway for the $7,500 still needed so Spohn Ranch can draft construction documents.

“Our goal is to be breaking ground in 2025,” he said.

Once the funding is raised for the construction documents, Weeg said the nonprofit would be working toward the $1.2 million needed for the actual construction of the park, which will likely be done in phases. He is anxious to see the community benefit from all of the positive activity a skate park can create.

“It’s hugely important for the kids of Berlin,” he said. “Kids of all ages. A skate park is not just a skate park. It’s a place for mentorship, burning off energy and learning. It’s not just for learning skateboarding but to learn about life.”

He thanked community members for their support of the project so far and encouraged anyone interested in donating to visit the We Heart Berlin website.

A tentative schematic of a proposed skate park in the Town of Berlin is pictured. The design part of the process will feature community feedback through each step.

Donaway to open new Home Living store in Outlets

(April 5, 2024) A grand opening and ribbon cutting ceremony is set for April 9 to mark the opening of Home Living by Donaway Furniture in the Outlets Ocean City off Route 50.

Since 1954, a news release said Donaway Furniture has been the spot at the beach for home furnishing needs. Now, they are set to open a new location at the West Ocean City outlets.

The release said, “The latest endeavor will be a one-stop destination for all home furnishing needs, with everything from living rooms, dining rooms, outdoor furniture, youth furniture, occasional furniture, art, lamps, accessories, rugs and linens.”

All the items showcased will be in stock and ready to go, ensuring customers don’t have to wait to enjoy their purchases —they can take them with them or have them delivered the next day. The release said the price points at the new location will be affordable and competitive, including many new furniture lines not offered at the other stores. Also, the more you buy, the more you save. An extra 10% with the purchase of any five items will be “Everyday Savings” all year.

The new store joins the ranks of the company’s other successful furniture stores — Bethany Resort Furnishings in Bethany Beach, Delaware, and Donaway Furniture in Ocean City, each known for their vast range of offerings and solid reputation. The release said the new location will carry many of the same selections of name brand quality furnishings and accessories for which the company is known for, but with a fresh new selection and added variety.

“The opening of the new Home Living by Donaway Furniture store in West Ocean City Outlets aims to provide customers with an all-inclusive shopping experience,” Kayla Hoffman, Chief Operations Officer at Trident Furnishings said in the release. “We are committed to offering a range of high-quality, stylish, and affordable furnishings and accessories to go. Our goal is to create a space where customers can find everything they need for their home or condo under one roof.”

The 12,000-square-foot Home Living by Donaway Furniture will be located in unit #740 between Skechers and J. Crew.

Berlin eyes open space funding for land buy

By Charlene Sharpe Associate Editor

(April 5, 2024) The Town of Berlin is seeking state funding to buy property that could help with stormwater management.

The Berlin Town Council last week agreed to present Worcester County with a request for Program Open Space (POS) funding that would

allow the town to purchase property that could be used as a passive park and stormwater mitigation area.

“This has come up very quickly,” Town Administrator Mary Bohlen said. “The information that’s included here is still somewhat protected.”

Bohlen told the council that Worcester County this year hadn’t

Berlin council wants run-off votes if elections end in ties

By Charlene Sharpe Associate Editor

(April 5, 2024) With an election coming in the fall, Berlin officials agreed to institute a policy to address tie votes.

Members of the Berlin Town Council this week asked staff to move forward with drafting a policy to allow for a special run-off election in the event of a tie vote.

“Last election we came very close to a tie vote,” Town Administrator Mary Bohlen said. “As it turns out the state requires us to have measures in place to address tie votes.”

Bohlen said in preparation for the upcoming election cycle, she realized the town needed to incorporate a policy to decide a tie vote in case there was one. She said options included flipping a coin, drawing straws or rolling dice. The staff recommendation provided in the council’s packet was to utilize the dice roll or high card option as there was no cost and the vacancy could be decided at the next council meeting following the election.

“You will find every method under the sun out there,” Bohlen said. “It just comes down to how you want to do it.”

Mayor Zack Tyndall said his recommendation was that a run-off election be held. Bohlen said the only disadvantage with that was that it would take time and could be happening close to county, state or national elections. The state requires that a vacancy from a tie vote be filled within 90 days of the election.

Councilmen Steve Green and Jack Orris said they supported a run-off election.

“I agree with the human vote,” Councilwoman Shaneka Nichols said. The council is expected to review a

draft ordinance incorporating the plan for a run-off election in the event of a tie at its April 8 meeting. A public hearing will be held April 22.

asked for the town’s entire wish list of potential POS projects, but rather just the portion of POS requests the county could process. Bohlen said that would be acquisition projects. As a result, she said she was asking the council to approve the town’s 2025 POS acquisition request for the purchase of three contiguous parcels of land. The listing price for the parcels is $599,000.

“The Town’s project to be considered for Acquisition for 2025 is the purchase of three contiguous parcels of land for the purpose of the development of a passive park and stormwater mitigation facility,” reads the proposed letter from the town to the county.

“The availability of this land has only very recently come to the Town’s attention and, unfortunately, is not

yet at a stage for public disclosure. The listing price for the three parcels is $599,000, and they are listed as one purchase package. The Town understands that appraisals to determine fair market value must be completed.”

The letter goes on to say that the location cannot yet be disclosed but that one of the three parcels is within town limits while two are not, which is why the town needs county partnership in seeking POS funding.

“We just to have to give the little bit of information we can and go from there,” Bohlen said.

The council voted unanimously to approve the POS acquisition request as well as the town’s parks plan for development, which lists projects the town would like to see implemented at municipal parks.

Lifetime member began as cadet in 1981

Tim Peters remembers baby being tossed from room in Beachcomber fire

By Steve Price Contributing Writer

(April 5, 2024) This week we are proud to recognize Ocean City Volunteer Fire Company Life Member Tim Peters.

Peters currently serves as a firefighter/EMT for the Town of Ocean City Fire/EMS Division – a career that has spanned over 30 years. His relationships with friends and family, who were members of the Ocean City Volunteer Fire Company, exposed him to the brotherhood associated with the fire service at an early age.

Peters joined the OCVFC cadet program in 1981. During his four years in the cadet program, he held the rank of captain, served as a member of the board of directors, and was the cadet chaplain. Tim then left the Ocean City community to attend college but continued his commitment to the fire service as a member of the Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Service and as a member of the Burtonsville Fire Department.

Upon his return to Ocean City, Peters joined the OCVFC as a probationary member. During his 15 years of active service, Tim served as lieutenant on Engine #704, cadet Instructor; member of the board of directors and fire company chaplain.

As a younger member of the Vol-

unteer Fire Company, Peters appreciated the opportunity to listen and learn from the stories shared by Chief “Fish” Powell;,Chief Donald Fisher and Chief Engineer “Pop” Steger.

Firefighter Peters said the most significant event of his fire service career as the Beachcomber Motel fire of June 12, 1988 – the worst hotel fire in the history of Ocean City.

“It was approximately 3 a.m. and I was the driver/operator of Engine #704. We were the first engine on the scene with a fully involved hotel occupied by many high school and college students. There were reports of numerous people trapped and unable to escape the flames. I witnessed a baby being thrown from the third floor and rescued by members of the Ocean City Police Department. Another victim, while on fire, jumped from the building and landed in a dumpster. The incident resulted in the death of two young girls and serious injuries to 14 others. This scene was something that no one should ever have to witness.”

HaSpring ppenings

Peters said his greatest accomplishment in the fire service has been the opportunity to mentor the younger members – sharing the skills he has been fortunate to learn and continues to learn over the years. He reminds the younger members that no two fires are ever the same.

Given the opportunity to pass on advice to the members of the cadet program or other young men and women with an interest in the fire service, Peters said: “There is nothing like the bond you will form with every member both young and old. People call us on the worst day of their life, and we are there to help. There is no better self-satisfaction than saving lives and property. This job takes courage – you must have the ability to put your fear aside to do the job. Don’t preach the brotherhood of man, live it!”

Peters sums up the tradition of the fire service by quoting a Bible verse from John 15:13: “Greater love has no one than this, that anyone may lay down his own life for others.”

For membership information or to learn more about the volunteer fire company, visit ocvfc.com.

Tim Peters

Jewelry Designer Trunk Show

Ukranian Front liberated Odessa eight decades ago

By Peter Ayers Wimbrow III Contributing Writer

(April 5, 2024) This week, 80 years ago, the Soviet city of Odessa was liberated by the Third Ukranian Front, commanded by Rodion Malinovsky. A “Front,” in Soviet parlance, was the rough equivalent of an army group.

For this Front commander, Odessa’s liberation was especially sweet, because Odessa was his birthplace and hometown. In September, Malinovsky would become the seventh man to be named a Marshal of the Soviet Union since the USSR entered the war, and on April 26, 1945, the seventh man to receive the Order of Victory. Only 10 other Soviet Marshals received the order.

Odessa is located on the Black Sea and is currently the third largest city in the Ukraine, with a population, before the Russian invasion, exceeding one million.

Although it is now located in the Ukraine, it is in an area that was conquered by the Russians under the command of Adm. José Pascual Domingo de Ribas y Boyons, in the Russo-Turkish War of 1787-1792. After the conclusion of the war, the Russian Czarina, Catherine the Great, directed Adm. de Ribas to create a new, ice-free, Black Sea port, and appointed him as the new city’s first administrator. He was succeeded, in that position, by Gen. Armand-Emmanuel de Vignerot du Plessis, Duc de Richelieu, the grandnephew of Cardinal Richelieu, Foreign Minister of France under King Louis XIII. The city is still predominantly Russian. Odessa’s main street is named for the Spanish admiral, de Ribas (Deribasovskaya) and the famous Potemkin Steps leading to the Black Sea, are topped by a statue of the French duc.

part of Moldova. It is not recognized by any country. Tyraspol, which was founded by Field Marshal Alexander Suvorov in 1792, and currently has a population of 150,000, is the capital.

The Rumanian administrator for “Transnistria” was Gheorghe Alexianu. His residence and office were located in the Vorontsov Palace in Odessa. The palace was built by Field Marshal Prince Mikhail Semyonovich Vorontsov in the 19th Century.

Before the war, Alexianu had been a respected law professor at Cernauti University in the city of Cernauti, Northern Bukovina, Romania. It is now the Ukranian city of Cernivtsi. As the Red Army approached, Professor Alexianu was replaced by Maj. Gen. Gheorghe Potopeanu on Fe. 1, 1944.

Gen. Potopeanu had previously served as the Romanian minister of economy. Professor Alexianu would be executed, along with the Romanian Conduc tor, Marshal Ion Antonesqu, the Conduc tor’s distant cousin Mihai Antonesqu, (minister of domestic affairs), and Gen. Constantin Z. Vasiliu (former deputy minister of interior affairs and head of the gendarmerie), after a brief trial, on June 1,1946.

In February, the Red Army crossed the Bug River into “Transnistria.” The rail line from Odessa west to Lvov was cut by the First Ukranian Front, commanded by Nikolai Vatutin, on March 6, 1944. Ten days later, the Germans assumed total control of “Transnistria.” In the meantime, the Romanians were carting off everything they could find!

The Red Army crossed the Prut River on March 25. Three days later, it crossed the Southern Bug River and recaptured Nikolaev, and the Axis began seaborne evacuations of Odessa.

“I create collections that women can connect with and embrace. Each piece is ageless filled with heart, so that it becomes part of the woman who wears it.”

Michele Sonner, Creator, Michou Jewelry

The city was captured by the Romanian Fourth Army, commanded by Lt. Gen. Iosif Iacobici, on Oct. 16, 1941, after a 73-day siege. Odessa was the largest European city to be captured by a nonGerman Axis force.

In December 1942, Odessa became the center for the Romanian administration of the area Romanians called “Transnistria.” “Transnistria” means across the Dniester River. “Transnistria” was bordered on the west by the Dniester River, on the east by the Bug River, on the South by the Black Sea and on the north by Poland.

Its population was approximately 2.5 million, of which 57% were Ukranians, 28% Russians and 4.5% Romanians. This is the area where the Romanians murdered many Jews — at least 185,000. The behavior of Romanian soldiers in Transnistria often shocked even their German allies.

Today, “Transnistria” is home to about 200,000 Russians who have established the Transnistria Republic. It is about the size of Rhode Island and is located on the eastern side of the Dniester River. Prior to its establishment, it was a

Nikolaev (Mykolaiv) is located on the Southern Bug River and today has a population of 500,000. Although besieged in 2022 by the Russians, it did not fall, and in March 2022 was named a Hero City of Ukraine.

On April 2, 1944, Gen. Malinovsky’s Third Ukranian Front began the battle to liberate Odessa, now garrisoned by German troops. It would not take the Soviets 73 days to recapture Odessa. The attack was launched in a blizzard by the Eighth Guards Army, commanded by Stalingrad hero Vasili Chuikov and Forty-Sixth Army, commanded by Maj. Gen. Vasily Vasilyevich Glagolev.

One of the soldiers in Gen. Chuikov’s Eighth Guards Army was famed sniper, Hero of the Soviet Union, Vasili Zaitsev. He had been wounded during the battle for Stalingrad, temporarily losing his sight. But, by now, he was recovered and back to killing Germans.

Razdelnaia fell to Thirty-Seventh Army commanded by Mikhail Nikolaevich Sharokhin on April 5, cutting the railroad to Tyraspol. This was the last rail

The name “Michou” itself, a derivation of the French endearment mon petit chou, is the childhood nickname of the artist behind Michou s unique designs. Michele s love of art and antiques first drew her into jewelry design when, by chance, she discovered a tiny collection of rings during a ski trip in the Swiss Alps. Michele was so inspired that months later the New York City native found herself on the faraway

WORLD WAR II

line to Odessa. By April 6, the Soviets had isolated the city.

Defending the city were elements of the Sixth Army, commanded by Col. Gen. Karl-Adolf Hollidt. Gen. Hollidt was relieved of command on April 7, and replaced the next day by General der Artillerie Maximilian de Angelis.

The final Soviet assault was launched by Gen. Chuikov’s Eighth Guards Army and Fifth Shock and Sixth Armies, commanded by Viacheslav Dmitrievitch Tsvetaev and Ivan Timofeevich Shlemin.

On April 10, at 10 p.m., the Red Banner was raised above the city’s beautiful opera house, signifying its return after 902 days of occupation to the Soviet fold. The German defenders suffered 160,000 casualties. Fourteen Soviet soldiers were named Hero of the Soviet Union during the city’s liberation.

Tyraspol fell on April 12, 1944.

On May 1, 1945, Stalin recognized Odessa, Leningrad, Stalingrad and Sevastopol as “Hero Cities.” The title was made official on May 8, 1965 by the Presidium of the Supreme Soviet of the U.S.S.R. The city celebrates its liberation every year on April 10.

The city’s residents are famed for their wit and sense of humor. These traits are acknowledged in the poem, “The Day of Liberation,” below:

Once again the spring’s in the Victory Garden

Once again the 10th of April to Odessa’s come,

The memory of that day hardens

This wonderful feeling of freedom without alarm.

About 30 months the occupation of Odessa lasted

The streets and houses by fascists were blasted.

But the nation with sense of humor no one can kill,

The defense of the city was everyone’s freewill.

In the sea of sunlight is the blue and free sky,

The wings of the seagulls soared into skywards,

The glory to Odessa city is in the seagulls’ cry, Wind orchestras play celebrations chords.

The southern sunny city today looks so pretty

And the faces of Odessites as usual are so witty.

Their spirit of freedom is light as the sea breeze,

An Odessite will never bend the knees.

The second birthday, the day of celebration,

The day of spring, the day of liberation.

©Larisa Rzhepishevska (Odessa, Ukraine)

Next week: Unit 731

Mr. Wimbrow writes from Ocean City 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.

AUTISM AWARENESS MONTH

The Town of Berlin recognized April as Autism Awareness Month at its meeting last week. Mayor Zack Tyndall read a proclamation about acceptance,, inclusion and tolerance. The mayor recognized attendees connected to the Autistic Children’s Support Group of Worcester County, including Melissa Esham and Pam, Carson and Steve Green, a town councilman.

CHARLENE SHARPE/OC TODAY-DISPATCH

COMMUNITY/SCHOOLS

ORATORICAL WINNERS

Winners

recent

NEW MEMBERS WELCOMED

English Learners at Ocean City Elementary School celebrate the completion of their annual MCAP ELP (ACCESS) English proficiency assessment with a pizza and ice cream party.

a

LITTLE LEARNERS PROGRAM

The Ocean City Life-Saving Station Museum recent hosted its third little learners program of the year with special guests from the Ocean City Police Department. The little learners met K-9 Finn and PFC Patrick Schob, along with Benson, Riptide, PFC Joe Laughlin, and PFC Christian Rodden. The final Little Learners Program of the year will be at 10:30 a.m., April 8, with guests from the Maryland

DONATION

Worcester Youth & Family Counseling Services staff recently attended a Kiwanis Club of Greater Ocean Pines-Ocean City meeting to discuss the duties of the Berlin nonprofit. Kiwanis President Bob Wolfing presented a $2,000 check to guest speakers Dr. Jennifer Leggour, a psychologist and executive director of WCYFS, and Kayla Figueroa, the director of WCYFS and Worcester Connect mentoring program. The organization offers clinical mental health counseling, youth mentoring, resource navigation and youth programs in the community.

PHOTO COURTESY OCEAN CITY-BERLIN OPTIMIST CLUB

in the Ocean City-Berlin Optimist Club’s

oratorical contest finals are pictured. Posing in

group shot, from left, are Cindy Malament, Optimist Club treasurer; Sharon Sorrentino, oratorical chairperson; Aberle Bunting, fourth place winner from Stephen Decatur Middle School; Estelle Damouni, fifth place winner from Worcester Preparatory School; Kaia James, third place winner from Stephen Decatur Middle School; Jude Damouni, second place winner from Worcester Preparatory School; Elliot Larsen, first place winner from Snow Hill Middle School; and Christina Dolomount, Optimist Club president.

PHOTO COURTESY OCEAN CITY-BERLIN OPTIMIST CLUB

Members of the Ocean City-Berlin Optimist Club welcomed five new members at their March dinner meeting. Pictured, from left, are Rob Bates, Joe Hicks, Amanda Koontz, membership chair Roger Pacella, Barbara Griswold and Eddie Fooks.

PHOTO COURTESY OCEAN CITY LIFE-SAVING STATION MUSEUM

Coastal Bays Program.

PHOTO COURTESY OCEAN CITY ELEMENTARY SCHOOL ENGLISH LEARNERS

PHOTO COURTESY DAVID J. LANDIS SR. CLUB

Things I Like...

By Steve Green

Easter leftovers for lunch all week

Smells of a baseball dugout

Watching Easter egg hunts from a distance

NC State’s hot streak

Being seated by the restaurant owner

A freshly painted room

Pictures of my sons on previous Easters

Local athletes playing college sports

Picking up newspapers in other areas

Italian for dinner

When the ‘good’ wins in a ‘good news, bad news’ situation

vanishing vanishing OCEAN CITY

WITH BUNK MANN

Ocean City in 1915 was a small village with about 600 residents. Most of the men worked as commercial fishermen or on the railroad while the women managed the hotels and boarding houses. The tourist season ran from mid-June to Labor Day and there was no off-season. The hotels closed after Labor Day and the tourists went home — most of them on the railroad that crossed the bay at South Division Street.

The city limits stretched from S. 7th Street (where the Inlet is now) to 15th Street and streets north of 3rd Street were unpaved. The Boardwalk was narrow and raised several feet above the beach. On stormy days, waves rolled under it. There was no Thrasher’s Fries, Alaska Stand or Dumser’s in 1915 and no pizza parlors or T-shirt shops on the Boardwalk.

Because the Inlet did not exist until 1933, Assateague ponies would wonder into Ocean City in search of food. There were no motels, no Beach Patrol, no miniature golf courses and no condominiums — the word did not exist in 1915.

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

FOOD FOR THOUGHT

Deviled eggs provide tasty, creative delight with options

By Deborah Lee Walker Contributing Writer

(April 5, 2024) Has one ever taken a moment to consider the captivating occurrences that encompass our daily lives?

The kitchen alone is a sanctuary of culinary lure and scientific phenomena. Shedding light on conundrums not only raise our level of awareness, but also enlightens us to the wonderful world of glorious food.

Eggs are one of the most versatile and popular ingredients. M.F.K. Fisher brilliantly describes an egg as, “one of the most private things in the world until it is broken.”

With that thought in mind, let us take a closer look at the intriguing egg. An understanding of what is and how it works is just as important as the recipe itself.

Our discussion will focus on the most popular ways to cook eggs: boiled, poached, and scrambled.

Eggs are cooked in the shell to make soft and hard-boiled eggs. Despite the name, boiled eggs should not be boiled but simmered throughout the cooking process.

Boiling water is turbulent and can cause the eggs to smash into each other, which can crack the shell, allowing some of the albumen to leak out. As a result, the eggs will be overcooked and produce an unpleasant rubbery texture.

That being said, there is nothing more frustrating than peeling an egg when the shell sticks to it. There are two basic reasons for this occurrence. Fresh eggs are more likely to stick to the shell. In addition, if the egg is overcooked, the shell will stick to the egg.

Another oddity about hard-boiled eggs is the occasional appearance of a greenish-grey discoloration on the surface of the yolk. According to On Food and Cooking, the color is caused by a chemical reaction involving sulfur (from the egg white) and iron (from the yolk), which naturally reacts to form sulfide at the surface of the yolk. The reaction is usually caused by overcooking, but can also brought about by high amounts of iron in the cooking water.

Soft-boiled eggs are basically the same thing as hard-boiled eggs except that the cooking time is less which results in a runny yolk.

The simplicity of a poached egg is its greatest attribute; the simpler the dish, the more the chef’s skill is on display.

One of the challenges in cooking poached eggs is producing a compact

shape without overcooking the whites. Always use the freshest eggs for poaching; the thick albumen will hold its shape better around the yolk than older eggs.

Do not shell the eggs until they are to be cooked. If left to sit in the open air, their quality declines quickly. Adding vinegar, lemon juice, or salt to the poaching water will help the eggs coagulate faster.

Scrambled eggs are among the most popular egg dishes and can be made in two basic ways: the eggs can be stirred constantly over low heat for a soft delicate curd and creamy texture, or stirred less frequently so they develop a larger curd and firm texture.

However, if you want a souffle-like texture, place the eggs and cream/milk in the blender for five seconds. This process incorporates a tremendous amount of air into the egg mixture for an airy, velvety consistency.

Spring is here, flowers are blooming, and company is sure to follow. Deviled eggs are an American classic and best of all are very affordable.

There are several options when presenting deviled eggs. First and foremost, pipe the egg yolk filling into the cooked egg whites. You do not have to be a pro at this and it makes such a difference in the presentation.

We love our seafood on the Eastern Shore and placing a hunk of crab meat or shrimp under the piped egg yolk filling is a decadent as it gets. A dusting of Old Bay enhances the seafood theme and makes for a superlative bite.

If one decides to go this route, have someone hold a bamboo skewer to keep the seafood in place. Pipe the filling and then carefully remove the skewer.

One might be wondering what is the purpose of this step. When you lift the piping bag after piping the filling over the seafood, the seafood sometimes sticks the filling and the filling sticks to the actual piping tip. This simple step alleviates this prob-

On Eastern Shore, seafood often added to eggs

lem and does not interfere with the artistic piped filling.

In closing, I like to think of myself as a connoisseur of deviled eggs and the following deviled egg recipe is delicious. Enjoy!

Deviled Eggs

Ingredients

8 large eggs

1/3 cup good quality mayonnaise

1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

1 teaspoon rice vinegar table salt to taste a dusting of Old Bay or paprika as a garnish

1. Bring a large pot of water (enough to cover the eggs by oneinch) to a boil. Reduce heat and carefully add eggs. Once the water reaches a hard simmer, cook for 13 minutes.

2. Place the pot in the sink, drain the hot water, and fill with cold water to stop the cooking process. You may have to refill with cold water a few times.

3. Peel the eggs under running water. Dry thoroughly with paper towels and cut the eggs lengthwise and remove the egg yolks.

4. In a medium bowl, using a hand-held immersion blender or hand-held mixer, combine eggs yolks, mayo, mustard, vinegar, and salt and blend until very smooth. It is best to do this while the eggs yolks are warm, and not refrigerated.

Note: A hand-held immersion blander breaks down the egg yolks much faster than a mixer.

5. Using your favorite piping tip, fill the egg whites with the egg yolk mixture. Garnish with paprika or Old Bay seasoning. Refrigerate for 1 hour before serving.

Secret Ingredient – Desire

“The starting point of all achievement is desire.”

— Napoleon Hill

by Steve Green

EThe Adventures of Fatherhood

very day seems to mean something these days.

For instance over the last week, according to nationaldaycalendar.com, some of the recognized special days include National Peanut Butter and Jelly Day, National Find A Rainbow Day, National Chocolate Mousse Day, National Tweed Day, National Hug A Newsperson Day (a favorite of mine, of course) and National Burrito Day. Today is oddly enough National Read A Road Map Day, among other things.

While some of these are silly, Tuesday, April 2, was not jovial in nature. It was World Autism Awareness Day. Like me, many folks affected by the neurological and developmental disorder sported blue on Tuesday as a show of support for those with and affected by Autism.

For many years, I never wanted to refer to Carson as autistic. I feel silly now thinking about that, despite some science actually saying he’s not. His first diagnosis had nothing to do with Autism. However, as we researched his genetic abnormality called Duplication 7, it was comforting to learn he exhibits many of the same characteristics as those on the Autism spectrum.

I think it’s critically important for people to understand the Autism spectrum is vast. If you live it, you are well versed on this fact. If you have met one person with Autism, you have done just that –you have met one person with Autism. Each kid or adult with Autism is different from the other. Strengths and weaknesses appear different and communication and social challenges vary by individual.

There are so many different variables associated with each person. Some of the disabilities are more impactful than others, bringing terms like high-functioning and low-functioning into play. I think Carson is in the middle of the spectrum as he struggles mightily with transition, common social graces, communication and sensory processing.

He comes across initially as socially awkward and not just because he’s nonverbal. Certain situations stress him more than they should, and he often doesn’t have a sense of danger and awareness that keeps his mom awake at night.

Carson’s favorite color is blue, which is fitting because his eyes are a beautiful shade of it. We proudly wear blue in support of him and all his friends facing the same struggles each day. We will also wear blue in appreciation for all the people in his life, particularly his patient teachers, his bevy of support personnel and his amazing classmates, who show incredible kindness and tolerance to him. It’s these same teachers and classmates who also were decked in blue this week.

These folks know it’s okay to be different. They understand just because he doesn’t communicate verbally with them he can still be a friend. He is not ostracized. We don’t take that for granted. Wearing blue is a way to applaud them as well as the special people who overcome their disabilities each day.

Raising Carson has made me a better person. He has taught me empathy, tolerance and patience for the differences we all have as individuals. When I come home from work after a long day, it’s impossible not to be inspired by my son. Though I may have faced challenges here and there, I fully understand my obstacles pale in comparison to what he overcomes daily. Most special needs parents understand this sentiment well.

I came across the following “I See You” column online at The Mighty’s website from contributor Jessica Offer. The last paragraph means the most to me and it belongs framed on Carson’s wall in his room. Perhaps other parents living in the special needs world will enjoy it as much as I did.

“To the parents out there who spend their weeks consciously trying to attend to their child’s needs (special or otherwise) and still feel like at the end of the

week it’s not enough – I see you.

To the parents who throw their hands up in the air in utter desperation and frustration because you’re scraping the bottom of the barrel and nothing seems to be helping – I see you.

To the parents who attend meeting after meeting, appointment after appointment, trying to make more sense of their child’s depth of need – I see you.

To the parents who actively advocate and spread education and awareness in the vain hope their child may feel a little less segregated from the rest – I see you.

To the parents who feel isolated and alone but also daunted at the prospect of friendships – I see you.

To the parents who carry guilt because they can’t give their children equal attention – I see you.

To the parents afraid a label may place limitations on their child – I see you.

To the couples who are trying to scratch out chunks of time for themselves so they can identify as more than mother and father, but often feel like it’s a fruitless exercise – I see you.

I see you all. You are not alone. It is hard and you are doing such a wonderful job by your children. They may not recognize it now or even for a few years, but they will and they will be so thankful and proud. You never ever once gave up on them.

And finally:

To the child with autism who may feel lost in a world that is overwhelming and confusing – I see you and believe me when I say you are loved and supported and your world will gradually make more sense one day because we live in a world slowly beginning to embrace the beauty of neuro-diversity, and you have so much to teach it.”

(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.)

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, 410-2897192, captainstableoc.com

$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar

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

■ COINS PUB & RESTAURANT

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

$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar

American style local restaurant serving seafood, steaks and chefs specials. Check out the off season weekday specials. Early bird; daily, 25:30 p.m. Sunday’s early bird specials, all day and all night. Happy Hour; daily, 2-5:30 p.m. with food and drink specials. Closed Monday. Open Tuesday through Friday, 2 p.m. and Saturday through Sunday, 11:30 a.m. Dine-in, carry out.

■ CORAL REEF RESTAURANT & BAR

17th Street in the Holiday Inn & Suites, Ocean City 410-289-2612, coralreefrestaurant.com

$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar

Enjoy traditional Eastern Shore cuisine and local favorites that are sure to please your entire party! Choose from a selection of house specialty entrees such as sharables, handhelds and seafood. Serving breakfast, lunch and dinner. Featuring specialty rums. Open daily, 7 a.m. to 9 p.m.

■ CRAWL STREET

19 Wicomico St., Ocean City, 443-373-2756, blackoutalley.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.

■ HARBOR WATCH

806 S. Atlantic Ave., Ocean City, 410-2895121, 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 $9 select appetizers, $6 crushes, $4 select draft. Call for banquet and large-party details.

■ PAPI’S TACO JOINT

15th Street and Philadelphia Avenue, Ocean City 443-664-6811, Papistacojoint.com

$$ | Kid’s menu | Full bar

Authentic Mexican restaurant open 7 days a week. Weekdays, 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. and weekends 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. With a family atmosphere you can enjoy building your own street tacos with a sheet table side with their homemade authentic salsa. Serving food such as little cravings, choice of salsas, salads, bowls, soups, main dishes and desserts. Also, brunch, gluten free and vegan menus. Happy Hour Monday through Friday, 3-5 p.m. with beer, wines, cocktails and specialty signature drinks. Dine in or order online for your carryout.

■ PICKLES PUB

706 Philadelphia Ave., Ocean City, 410-2894891, picklesoc.com

$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar

Easy to find with plenty of free parking, serving lunch, dinner and entire diverse menu until 1 a.m. Also nightly entertainment year-round and a great place to watch all the sports on an ocean of televisions including a giant high-def screen. Also four pool tables on site. Lunch and dinner and entire menu until 1 a.m. Open all year from 11:30 a.m.-2 a.m., seven days a week.

■ PIT & PUB

12701 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, pitandpub.com

Ocean City’s home of Pulled Pork and the finest barbecue, the legendary 28th Street Pit & Pub and the Northside Pit & Pub are known for serving up delicious smokehouse specialties. Grab a brew and enjoy the live sports action on one of the big screen TVs. Happy hour daily. Familyfriendly atmospheres at both locations. Weekend entertainment.

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!

■ FAGERS ISLAND

201 60th St., Ocean City, 410-524-5500, fagers.com

$$ | Full bar

Dine on the island with an award-winning bayfront restaurant featuring American & Regional dining with a global influence and popular destination featuring impeccably prepared American and Pacific Rim cuisine. Also enjoy our outdoor decks and bar with live entertainment and 32 wines by the glass. A place where the joy of food & the presence of the table are of utmost importance. Dine on fresh seafood and our famous Prime Rib. Enjoy beautiful sunsets over the water. Open 11 a.m. daily. Fine dine at 4:30 p.m.

■ HOOKED

8003 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, 410-7234665, hookedoc.com

$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar

A Common Ground Hospitality concept, a passion driven restaurant group servicing the coastal community. The goal is honor creativity and innovation by design. With passion at the heart of everything, unique dining concepts are paired with honest hospitality and well-made food sourced with fresh local ingredients and seasonal harvests. Craft and full bar available. Open daily 11:30 a.m.

■ LONGBOARD’S CAFÉ

6701 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, 443-6645693, longboardcafe.com

$$-$$$ | Full bar

Casual Dining … Refined. Open for lunch and dinner. A wide range of gourmet burgers, innovative tacos, salads and sandwiches to full dinner entrees featuring fresh local fish prepared in a variety of styles, beef, shellfish and pasta. All our sauces, salsas, dressings, etc. are meticulously house made. We use fresh local sources wherever possible and premium ingredients such as our chuck, brisket and short rib custom blended burgers. Closed Tuesday. Call for reservations.

■ MARLIN MOON RESTAURANT

3301 Atlantic Ave., in the Double Tree Hotel, Ocean City 410-289-1201, marlinmoonocmd.com

$$ | Full bar

Winner of the Maryland People's choice award, Marlin Moon continues to offer its famous, locally loved dishes and famous happy hour. Enjoy creatively crafted cocktails, fresh selections from the raw bar and luscious desserts. Happy Hour, every day, 3-6 p.m., featuring drink specials.

Breakfast, 7:30-11:30 a.m.; Lite Fare, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.; Dinner, 4-10 p.m.; and Bar open noon to 11 p.m.

■ SEACRETS

49th Street, Ocean City 410-524-4900, www.seacrets.com

$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar

p.m. and Friday through Saturday, 10 a.m. through midnight with island atmosphere. Jamaican jerk chicken, appetizers, sandwiches, paninis, pizza and fresh seafood.

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

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

Enjoy one of the restaurants at the Carousel. Fine Ocean Front dining with a beautiful view. The Reef 118 is open 7 a.m. to 9 p.m., Friday through Sunday serving breakfast, lunch and dinner and 4-9 p.m. Monday through Thursday serving dinner. The Bamboo Lounge is open 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Monday through Sunday and 4-9 p.m. Monday through Thursday.

■ 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.

■ ORIGINAL GREENE TURTLE

116th Street, bayside, Ocean City, 410-7232120, originalgreeneturtle.com

This is the Original Greene Turtle, an Ocean City Tradition, since 1976! A fun and friendly Sports Bar & Grille, where every seat is a great spot to watch sports with 50+ High Def. TVs up & downstairs! Menu favorites include homemade crab cakes, kids’ menu, salads, burgers, wings and more!

■ TAILCHASERS RESTAURANT & DOCK BAR

12203 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, 443-6647075, tailchasersoc.com

$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar

A coastal casual farm to table restaurant with a fun dockside family friendly atmosphere. Menu changes with the seasons and cocktails are handcrafted with care. Bring the whole family for lunch or dinner along the canal. Kids playground available to keep the littles entertained.

■ TIDE ROOM AT ASHORE 10100 Coastal Highway, located inside the Ashore Resort, Ocean City, 410-524-7500, tideroomoceancity.com

$$ | Kids’ Menu | Full bar

Serving dinner with oceanfront indoor and outdoor dining. The 2024 season brings live music, happy hour, a new weekend brunch and specials for locals, service industry and first responders. Enjoy locally sourced cuisine from new Executive Chef Nate Leonard.

tions 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, 302539-3020, Beach-net.com/dirtyharrys

$ | Kids’ Menu | Full bar

Don’t let the name fool you, the food is home cooking at its finest. Established 25 years ago but recently under new ownership. 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.

OCEAN PINES

■ CLUBHOUSE BAR AND GRILLE

100 Clubhouse Drive, Ocean Pines 410-6417222, Oceanpinesgolf.org/dining

$$ | Full bar

Indoor and outdoor dining with sweeping views of the 18th green and pond, the Clubhouse Bar and Grille serves freshly prepared breakfast and lunch items with a full bar menu. Thursday through Sunday, 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.

■ OCEAN PINES YACHT CLUB

1 Mumford Landing Road, Ocean Pines 410641-7222, www.OPYachtclub.com

$$-$$$ | Full bar

The Ocean Pines Yacht Club offers casual coastal cuisine for lunch and dinner in a beautiful bayfront setting. Fresh seafood, signature drinks, live music and more. Open Thursday, 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.; and Sunday, 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.

WEST OCEAN CITY

■ BREAKFAST CAFE

12736 Ocean Gateway, Route 50 east, West Ocean City, 410-213-1804, breakfastcafeofoc.com

All the traditional breakfast options available here in a casual, diner setting. Open daily closing at 2 p.m.

■ CANTINA LOS AGAVES MEXICAN GRILL

12720 Ocean Gateway #7, West Ocean City 410-390-3914, cantinalosagaves.com

$$ | Kid’s menu | Full bar

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

■ DUMSER’S DAIRYLAND

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

This classic ice cream shop is a tradition for many families. Voted O.C.’s “Best Ice Cream” for the past 20 years, Dumser’s is celebrating decades of serving the shore, and the ‘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

1.

Open Sunday through Thursday, 10 a.m. to 10

■ 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 selec-

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.

Wor-Wic scholarships

High school seniors from Wicomico, Worcester and Somerset counties who are planning to attend Wor-Wic Community College may apply for a scholarship through the college.

Applicants should plan to upload a copy of their high school transcripts showing their unweighted grade point averages through mid-senior year.

To apply, visit worwic.scholarships.ngwebsolutions.com and submit the 2024 High School Senior Scholarship application.

The deadline to apply is April 15. For more information, contact the financial aid office at financialaid@worwic.edu or 410-334-2905.

‘Reflections’ on display

The Worcester County Arts Council will continue featuring the exhibit “Reflections,” showcasing 25 entries submitted by 18 artists, through the end of April.

The artwork for the juried competition was reviewed and judged by local artist and the University of Maryland eastern Shore professor brad Hudson.

Winners were announced during an open to the public reception and award presentation held March 8 at the arts council’s gallery.

For more information about the exhibit and to view the images of winning artwork, visit the arts councils website.

Along with the featured exhibit, new artwork presented by 30 members of the Artists Co-Op Gallery is on display and available for purchase.

Gallery hours are 11 a.m. to 3

p.m., Tuesday through Sunday.

Buckingham arts grant

The Worcester County Arts Council recently awarded an Arts in Education Grant to Buckingham Elementary School to support the art residency program of Steel Drums by Rockreek Steel Drums, culminating with a performance by all second-grade students.

Rockcreek Steel Drums has brought its steel pan Artist In Residence programs to over 400 schools, hospitals, churches, community centers and festivals.

Snow Hill candidates

Candidates running for office in the Town of Snow Hill’s general election in May have been announced.

The election will be in person on

Tuesday, May 7, at the Train Station at 200 Belt St. The offices of are the mayor and eastern district council are on the ballot.

On the ballot for mayor are Rob Hall and Janet Simpson. On the ballot for eastern district council are Edward S. Lee and Katy Carey.

Those who wish to vote by absentee ballot can call Town Hall or email Carol Sullivan at csullivan@snowhillmd.com to request an absentee ballot application. The deadline to apply for an absentee ballot application is Friday, April 19, 2024.

For more information call Carol Sullivan at Town Hall at 410-632-2080.

Seven-week classes

Wor-Wic Community College will begin offering seven-week credit classes this fall, along with 15-week

classes, to help accommodate students’ schedules and help them find their quickest path to graduation.

The seven-week courses cover the same material and offer the same credit hours as the 15-week counterparts, but are taught in a different way — often by adding hybrid or online components. Wor-Wic has also changed the night credit class schedule so that students who attend nights only can take a full-time

The Education Advisory Board, a higher education research firm, found that courses in formats such as the seven-week term helped improve students’ course pass rates by as much as 23 percentage points.

Courses are offered on campus, online, virtually and in hybrid formats. Registration for the fall term opened April 1, and classes start Sept. 4. Visit worwic.edu to learn more about the seven-week classes.

OC Air Show ticket packages

available to buy now online

Annual event moved from June to August; Raptor, Italian team to headline

(April 5, 2024) Tickets for the Ocean City stop on the 2024 Air Dot Show Tour – the OC Air Show – officially went on sale this week.

Scheduled for Aug. 24 and 25 over the Ocean City beach and Boardwalk, the show’s headliner will be the F-22 Raptor Demo Team. The show will also feature the Italian Air Force Frecce Tricolori, which will be visiting the United States for the first time in over 30 years.

“Ocean City is thrilled to once again host the Ocean City Air Show and welcome the Italian Air Force Frecce Tricolori team and the return of my favorite, the F-22 Raptor,” Mayor Rick Meehan said in a news release. “We invite everyone to join us for this thrilling display of aviation excellence against the stunning backdrop of our beautiful coastline. You

won’t want to miss this unforgettable experience!”

Various ticket packages are available online. There is an “Intro Sale Price” that ends Monday, April 8, with an opportunity to save 50% off the event day price.

“Sponsorships on-the-fly,” or comprehensive sponsorship packages tailored to business needs, are also available online. The release said organizations can showcase support for the military while gaining brand awareness, on-site activation, and lead generation opportunities. There will also be corporate chalets, reserved boxes for client entertainment, or larger-scale programs for employee morale and retention available.

The OC Air Show is also actively seeking volunteers, who play a crucial role in making the massive event a resounding success. With opportunities available in various areas, sign up online to share in the excitement and adventure of this extraordinary experience.

Best Beats On The Beach

Who’s Where When

CAPTAIN’S TABLE

410-289-7192

15th & Boardwalk

In The Courtyard Marriott

Fridays & Saturdays: Phil Perdue on Piano

COINS PUB

410-289-3100

28th St. Plaza

On Coastal Hwy.

Friday, April 5:

Rockoholics

Saturday, April 6: DJ Giddy Up & Opposite Directions

CRABCAKE FACTORY

BAYSIDE

302-988-5000

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

Friday, April 5:

Jason Lee

Sunday, April 7: Fil Rhythm

Wednesday, April 10: Keith White Duo

CRAWL STREET TAVERN

443-373-2756

Wicomico St., Downtown O.C.

Friday, April 5:

Aaron Wolf & The Irie

Saturday, April 6: Bill Dickson & MTT

FAGER’S ISLAND 410-524-5500

60th St., In The Bay

Friday, April 5:

DJ Greg & DJ RobCee

Saturday, April 6: Big Machine & DJ TBA

GREENE TURTLE WEST 410-213-1500

Route 611, West OC

Wednesdays: Bingo w/ Blake

HARBORSIDE

410-213-1846

South Harbor Rd., West End O.C.

Friday, April 5:

DJ Billy T

Saturday, April 6: The

& DJ Donnie

STARLIGHT ANTHEM

Purple Moose: Friday & Saturday, April 5 & 6

BIG MACHINE BAND

Fager’s Island: Saturday, April 6

ROCKOHOLICS

Coins Pub: Friday, April 5

OPPOSITE DIRECTIONS

Seacrets: Friday, April 5

Coins: Saturday, April 6

Harborside: Sunday, April 7

AARON WOLF & IRIE

Crawl Street Tavern: Friday, April 5

THE DUNEHOUNDS

Harborside: Saturday, April 6 • 1 p.m. Pickles Pub: Saturday, April 6 • 9 p.m.

THE FREDDIE LONG BAND

Seacrets: Saturday, April 6

KEITH WHITE DUO Crabcake Factory Bayside: Wednesday, April 10

Who’s Where When

Sunday, April 7: Opposite Directions

PICKLES PUB

410-289-4891

8th St. & Philadelphia Ave.

Fridays: Beats By DeoGee

Saturday, April 6: The Dunehounds

Sundays: Beats By Styler Mondays: Karaoke w/ Wood Tuesdays: Beats By Wood Wednesdays: Beats By Styler Thursdays: Beats By DeoGee

PURPLE MOOSE

SALOON

410-289-6953

Between Caroline & Talbot Sts. On The Boards

Friday & Saturday, April 5 & 6: Starlight Anthem

SEACRETS

410-524-4900

49th St. & Coastal Hwy. Friday, April 5: Opposite Directions, DJ Bobby-O, DJ Connair, & Cherry Crush Band Saturday, April 6: Triple Rail Turn, DJ Bobby-O, The Freddie Long Band, DJ E-State, DJ Cruz, The Big House Band & My Hero Zero Thursday, April 11: DJ Connair & Blake Haley

VISTA ROOFTOP

410-390-7905

13801 Coastal Hwy. Friday, April 5 & 6: TBA

Art League to open new exhibits on Friday

(April 5, 2024) The Art League of Ocean City is hosting its First Friday art openings from 5-7 p.m. tonight, April 5, at the Ocean City Center for the Arts on 94th Street and two nearby satellite galleries. Admission is free.

According to a news release, an Earth Day themed marketplace featuring local vendors selling all-nat-

ural products and plants, including Bluebird Farms, Baybees Honey, Marshall Creek Farm, and Lawrence Leaf. Ocho Rios Jerk and Tings will be providing complimentary appetizers.

The Thaler Gallery at the arts center will host “Earth Studies,” featuring work by Maggie Delaney Grabow, Marley Massey, and Nancy Richards West. The release said the exhibit highlights the beauty of nature and the importance of protecting the planet. Through their unique styles and viewpoints, the artists explore the environment around us: land and ocean, flora and fauna, sun and moon.

Grabow, of Columbia, works in embroidery, pyrography, and painting, paying homage to the intricacies of the little things.

Massey, of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, works in painting, papermaking, rock pigment, and wild clay.

West is an oil painter from Chincoteague, Virginia, and her art highlights the ocean’s power and beauty as the heart of the planet, providing oxygen, absorbing carbon emissions, mediating temperature, driving weather, and providing food and jobs.

The Corporate Partner Juried Group Show, an annual exhibition to

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honor the corporate partners of the Art League, will be on display in The Galleria at the Arts Center. The Art League receives support from more than 50 local businesses that have pledged to be corporate partners.

The Spotlight Gallery will feature University of Maryland Eastern Shore professors Collin Byrd, Elvin Hernandez, and Brad Hudson and celebrates Manga and Anime styles of animation originating in Japan, characterized by stark, colorful graphics depicting fantastic or futuristic themes. The student portion of the

CROSSWORD

show will open Friday and continue through the weekend, April 5-7.

The release said the Art League developed the exhibit to promote creativity among students outside formal art programs and to increase community awareness of the Manga and Anime art form.

Students in middle, high school, and higher education submitted entries judged by Byrd, Hernandez, and Hudson. Art League President John Sisson and Ocean City Comic Con are donating prizes to the winners.

PHOTO COURTESY ART LEAGUE OF OCEAN CITY

Maggie Delaney Grabow is one of three artists featured at the April exhibit.

HOROSCOPE

ARIES – Mar 21/Apr 20

Grit and guts will get you what you deserve this week, Aries. You may have an opportunity to make a good deal of money, so give this plan careful consideration. Ask for advice if the need arises.

TAURUS – Apr 21/May 21

Taurus, there has been change in your life and you may want to blame the stars. Things will move out of your comfort zone and you will have to sharpen your ability to adapt.

GEMINI – May 22/Jun 21

Gemini, you may be questioning the relationships in your life at the time being, but don’t worry too much. If you hit a rough patch, things will clear up in a few days.

CANCER – Jun 22/Jul 22

A big shift in your perception and attitude will bring new components to your life that you may not have anticipated. This week you’ll certainly have a few eyes-wide-open moments.

LEO – Jul 23/Aug 23

There will be no hiding out this week, Leo. You will soon learn that things will come your way at a rapid pace. Do your best to keep up, mighty Lion, as it’s bound to be exciting.

VIRGO – Aug 24/Sept 22

Virgo, you might be willing to throw caution to the wind and get away on a moment’s notice. There are affordable ways to do this if you are willing to do your homework.

LIBRA – Sept 23/Oct 23

Libra, even though some drama may be swirling in your universe, you find it tolerable because it’s coming at you in small portions. Just stay on the sidelines as much as possible.

SCORPIO – Oct 24/Nov 22

Scorpio, if boredom has set in, it’s better to look to new experiences instead of doing something rash just for the thrill. See which classes you can take or find new restaurants to explore.

SAGITTARIUS – Nov 23/Dec 21

Self-care and healing are what you should focus on right now, Sagittarius. You may have been pushing your needs to the side lately and you need to make this a priority.

CAPRICORN – Dec 22/Jan 20

You are not normally characterized as “impulsive,” Capricorn. But you may surprise everyone this week. An opportunity to travel or another adventure could drop in your lap.

AQUARIUS – Jan 21/Feb 18

Try to create some tranquil spaces at home, Aquarius. You can use a haven, especially when a lot of stuff is thrown at you outside your home.

PISCES – Feb 19/Mar 20

Pisces, you may be on a mission this week to get things done. Don’t rush in your efforts to complete everything or you are bound to make mistakes that are not easily fixed.

Marketplace to feature vendors

Continued from Page 48

Byrd, of Salisbury, is professor of graphic illustration and animation at UMES and currently developing the animation concentration for the arts program. His proficiencies include 2D animation, sequential art, and 3D sculpting and printing.

Hernandez, of Salisbury, who is originally from Puerto Rico, earned his masters of fine arts in sequential arts from the Savannah College of Art and Design, and his EdD in Higher Education from Argosy University. He is a long-time educator and practicing freelance artist in the field of comics and commercial art, working for Toys R Us, DC Entertainment, Marvel, FX, and Cartoon Network.

Hudson, of Mardela Springs, has been an artist/instructor at UMES for more than 20 years and publishes his own comics under the moniker of Coldstream Studios, developing characters such as Rocket Girl and Dark Crusader. He produces work for, among others, Topps Trading Cards, including StarWars, The Walking Dead, Mars Attacks, and more.

Studio E’s artists for April are Angela Pierce and Carol Gentes with a show called, “Nature As We See It.” Pierce, of Selbyville, Delaware, is an oil painter and retired art educator.

Her paintings are interpretations of the photographs she shoots of local landscapes, marshes, waterways, plants and flowers.

Gentes, also of Selbyville, uses nature, birds and animals as recurring themes. As a muralist, her paintings can be seen on walls, furniture, rain barrels, sidewalks and rock. In the studio, she combines detail with texture and abstract realism. Her photographs are the subjects of many of her paintings and products.

Barbara Buford, of Nassau, Delaware, is the artisan for April featuring mixed media created using vintage and recycled material. With over 50 years of experience as an artist and arts educator, Buford believes that art heals, and everyone should have the opportunity to create.

The Princess Royale satellite gallery at 9100 Coastal Highway, hosts the artwork of Jennifer Carter of Bethany Beach, Delaware. Carter is the Art League’s Robinson Fellow for 2024. Watercolor and oil paintings, photo explorations and beach portraits, and graphic design creations express her love of light, color, and life.

The Coffee Beanery satellite gallery at 94th Street and Coastal Highway displays the collages and paintings of Gail Wynn, of Pittsville. The release said she believes making collages is like solving a puzzle.

The arts center shows will be on display through April 27, and the satellite galleries through June 29. More information is available at OCart.org or by calling 410-5249433.

Nancy Richards West will feature her paintings this month at the Ocean City Center for the Arts.

PHOTO COURTESY ART LEAGUE OF OCEAN CITY

Fri., April 5

MAHJONG CLUB

Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 10:30 a.m.

Fun morning of playing tile Mahjong. Feel free to bring your own tile set. 410-5241818, www.worcesterlibrary.org

CHAIR YOGA

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 3 p.m. Nicole Young, certified yoga instructor, helps participants stretch in a safe and low impact manner. 410-208-4014, www.worcesterlibrary.org

MANGA & ANIME YOUTH ART SHOW

Art League of Ocean City, 502 94th St., Ocean City, 5-7 p.m. Featuring artwork by middle, high school and college students. Cash prizes awarded. On display at the OC Center of the Arts for one weekend only (April 5-7). Kacie Neeb, kacie@artleagueofoceancity.org. 410-524-9433

FIRST FRIDAY OPENING RECEPTION & MARKETPLACE

Art League of Ocean City, 502 94th St., 5-7 p.m. Meet the artists, enjoy hors d’oeuvres and see the new exhibits. Free event. Art exhibits also held at the Coffee Beanery and

Princess Royale in Ocean City. artleagueofoceancity.org, 410-524-9433

Sat., April 6

FISHING FLEA MARKET

Ocean Pines Community Center, 235 Ocean Parkway, 7 a.m.-noon. Buy/sell fishing, boating and other household items. Table cost is $15 for 10’x10’ space and one table. Admission cost is $2. Reserve tables: Laura Leuters, 240-818-2864, dorado1045@yahoo.com.

BEACH CLEAN UP

Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 9 a.m. Meet up in the Ocean City library parking lot. Gloves and trash bags provided. All ages. 410-524-1818, www.worcesterlibrary.org

FARMERS & ARTISANS MARKET

Saturdays - White Horse Park, 239 Ocean Parkway, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Shop for everything from fresh local produce to unique handmade artisan goods. Open to the public.

SATURDAY WRITERS

Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 10 a.m. Novice and estab-

lished writers gather to share their writing projects. Structure includes critiques and appreciation, market leads and writing exercises. Drop ins welcome. 410-641-0650

FRIED CHICKEN/FRIED FISH/GOAT PLATTERS TO GO

Calvary United Methodist Church, 8607 Ironshire Station Road, Berlin, 10:30 a.m. Fried chicken and fish combo platter, $15; Goat platter with rice, $15; Chicken platter, $12; Fish platter, $12. Chicken and fish platters come with two sides and a roll. Drink, desserts and more.

MANGA & ANIME YOUTH ART SHOW

Art League of Ocean City, 502 94th St., 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Featuring artwork by middle, high school and college students. Cash prizes awarded. On display at the OC Center of the Arts for one weekend only (April 5-7). Kacie Neeb, kacie@artleagueofoceancity.org. 410-5249433

ALL-YOU-CAN-EAT FRIED CHICKEN BUFFET

Mt. Pleasant United Methodist Church, 36540 Mount Pleasant Road, Willards, 11 a.m. Vegetables, beverages and desserts included. Cost is $15 for adults, $7.50 for children and free to those 6 years and younger. Carry outs available. No pre-orders. 410835-8340

Sun., April 7

ALL-YOU-CAN-EAT BREAKFAST

American Legion Synepuxent Post 166, 2308 Philadelphia Ave., Ocean City, 8-11 a.m. Menu includes eggs, bacon, ham, sausage gravy and biscuits, pancakes, scrapple hash, fruit, juice, coffee and tea.

FATHER CARL’S LAST SUNDAY SERVICE

St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, 3 Church St., Berlin. There will be one service at 9:30 a.m. followed by a potluck. Come say farewell to Father Carl and his wife Virginia.

MANGA & ANIME YOUTH ART SHOW

Art League of Ocean City, 502 94th St., 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Featuring artwork by middle, high school and college students. Cash prizes awarded. On display at the OC Center of the Arts for one weekend only (April 5-7). Kacie Neeb, kacie@artleagueofoceancity.org. 410-5249433

OCEAN CITY LUXURY WEDDING EXPO

Ashore Resort & Beach Club, 10100 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, 1-4 p.m. Wedding vendors and prizes. Admission cost is $10 in advance and $15 at the door. https://www.eventbrite.com/e/ocean-cityluxury-wedding-expo-registration-

840309457207?aff=ebdssbdestsearch, 410390-3937

JEHOVAH’S WITNESSES MEETING

Sundays - Berlin Congregation of Jehovah’s Witnesses, 212 West St., Berlin, 10 a.m. www.jw.org

Mon., April 8

BARIATRIC SUPPORT GROUP

Takes place the first and second Wednesday of each month. For non-surgical patients. Atlantic General Bariatric Center, 410-6419568

4-DAY WATERCOLOR WORKSHOP WITH JANET ROGERS

Art League of Ocean City, 502 94th St., 9:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. 4-Day Expressive Watercolor: Flowers to Figures held April 8-11. Cost is $450 for members and $565 for non-members. Register: 410-524-9433, https://canvas.artleagueofoceancity.org/cla sses/526.

LITTLE LEARNERS WITH MARYLAND COASTAL BAYS

Ocean City Life-Saving Museum, 813 S. Atlantic Ave., 10:30-11:30 a.m. Story time at the museum and a sand-shifting activity on the beach. Designed for children ages 0-5 years, but all are welcome. Free event and parking. www.ocmuseum.org, 410-2894991

STORY TIME: SPACE ADVENTURES

Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 10:30 a.m. Crafts, songs and stories. For ages 0-5 years. 410-524-1818, www.worcesterlibrary.org

WRITING FOR WELLNESS

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 1:30 p.m. Writing about stressful experiences like illness may boost health and psychological wellbeing. Group uses exercises to stimulate creative expression. 410-208-4014, www.worcesterlibrary.org

TOTAL ECLIPSE

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 1:30 p.m. Check out the total solar eclipse with solar eclipse glasses. Learn about eclipses and what makes the eclipse so special. 410-2084014, www.worcesterlibrary.org

TRUE CRIME BOOK CLUB: ‘I’LL BE GONE IN THE DARK’ BY MICHELLE MCNAMARA

Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 2 p.m. Join in for an afternoon of true crime. 410524-1818, www.worcesterlibrary.org

LEGO MASTERS STEM

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 4:30 p.m. Build one of your favorite fictional characters out of legos. Drop in and design. 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

COME FROM AWAY

Ocean City Performing Arts Center, 4001 Coastal Highway, 7 p.m. Featuring broadway musical “Come From Away.” Tickets: https://www.etix.com/ticket/p/57329276/ come-from-away-ocean-city-oc-performing-arts-center.

BRIDGE

Mondays - Ocean City 50plus Center, 104 41st Street, Ocean City, 12:30-3:30 p.m. Reserve a spot: Tish, 410-804-3971. 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, 410629-9383 or Carol, 302-242-7062.

OVEREATER’S ANONYMOUS

Mondays - Worcester County LibraryOcean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 78 p.m. No dues or fees. 410-459-9100

Tues., April 9

PLAY TIME

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 10 a.m. Join in for a variety of activities and toys. Play and socialize with other families. For ages 0-5 years. 410-208-4014, www.worcesterlibrary.org

MUSIC AND MOVEMENT

Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 10:30 a.m. Clap, sing and move to the beat. For ages 2-5 years. 410641-0650, 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

PARKINSON’S SUPPORT GROUP

Atlantic General Neurology, 314 Franklin Ave., Berlin, 3:15-4 p.m. Discussions and mutual support, along with education on exercise, nutrition, coping techniques, medications and developments in treatment. Kay Kinnikin, 410-641-4765, kkinnikin@atlanticgeneral.org

GROWING UP WILD: BACKBONE BONANZA

Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 4 p.m. Learn about vertebrates and the things that define them through a variety of activities. For ages 6-11 years. 410-641-0650, www.worcesterlibrary.org

SONG CELEBRATION

Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 6 p.m. Bring a song to the library and share it with other players and writers. Originals encouraged. Listeners welcome. 410-641-0650, www.worcesterlibrary.org

ATLANTIC COAST SPORTSFISHING ASSOCIATION MONTHLY MEETING

American Legion Synepuxent Post 166, 2308 Philadelphia Ave., Ocean City, 7 p.m. The guest speaker will be charter Captain Mark Hoose of the “Marli.” He will discuss bait rigging, spreads and dredges. Food and refreshments available at 6:15 p.m. Open to the public.

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. 410-289-4725

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. 410-6414882, www.htcanglican.org/activities.

Wed., April 10

AARP CHAPTER 1917 MEMBERSHIP MEETING

Ocean City 50plus Center, 104 41st St., 10 a.m. Matt James, President of the Ocean City city council is the guest speaker. Coffee and conversation at 9:30 a.m.

MUSIC AND MOVEMENT

Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 10:30 a.m. Join in for a silly morning full of movement and music themed stories, fun songs and interactive activities to get everyone moving. For ages 0-5 years. 410-524-1818, www.worcesterlibrary.org

MONTHLY MOVIE MATINEE

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 2 p.m. Celebrate National Library Week with a bookrelated movie. Free event. 410-208-4014, www.worcesterlibrary.org

KIWANIS CLUB MEETING

Wednesdays - Ocean Pines Community Center, Assateague Room, 239 Ocean Parkway, 8 a.m. Doors open at 7:30 a.m. Third Wednesday meetings are offsite and will be updated monthly on the website and Facebook. Guests are welcome. www.kiwanisofopoc.org

Thurs., April 11

ARBOR DAY MEMORIAL TREE PLANTING CEREMONY

Pintail Park, Ocean Pines, 10:30 a.m. The ceremony is conducted in memory of those who have passed the previous year. The event includes poetry and declaration readings, live music and a bell rung for each person memorialized.

STORYTIME: ‘ALL MY STRIPES’

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 10:30 a.m.

What makes Zane the zebra so special? Come find out and create your own zebra. For ages 2-5 years. 410-208-4014, www.worcesterlibrary.org

THURSDAY CRAFTERNOON: SPRING TABLE DECORATIONS

Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 2 p.m. Make spring table decorations using ordinary household items. All materials provided. Register: 410641-0650, www.worcesterlibrary.org.

ZUMBA

Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 5 p.m. Join Zumba instructor Joyce Landsman for an hour of movement. These classes uplift and improve mood. Registration required: 410-524-1818. www.worcesterlibrary.org

TEEN STEAM

Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 5 p.m. Create, explore and express yourself while developing your own STEAM skills. From origami to coding. For ages 11 years and older. 410-641-0650

FREE VIRTUAL POETRY READING

Held via Zoom, 7 p.m. Reading by Aricka Foreman, the author of “Dream with a Glass Chamber” and “Salt Body Shimmer.” www.worwic.edu.

BEACH SINGLE 55 PLUS MEET AND GREET

Thursdays - Harpoon Hanna’s, 39064 Harpoon Road, Fenwick Island, DE, 4-6 p.m. 302-436-9577, BeachSingles.org.

Crossword answers from page 48

PGN Crab House

29th St. & Coastal Hwy. Now Hiring for • Waitstaff • Kitchen Help Apply within in person after 11:00 am.

Cleaners - Vacation rentals needed for OC and Pines. Experience preferred but not required. OC Purifiers. Call or text 443-397-1189 or email Karen@ocpurifiers.com.

Now Hiring Year-Round GM Position

Great starting salary, paid vacation. Must have restaurant experience. Apply in person at The Greene Turtle West OC on Route 611.

Help WantedCook with 2-3 Years experience required. Honest, dependable, reliable. Flexible schedule - Full or Part-time. Weekly pay checks. Friendly work environment. Serious inquires only.

Open daily 12:00 p.m. American Legion Post #166, 2308 Philadelphia Avenue, Ocean City, MD

Now Hiring Summer 2024 Positions for Sun Outdoors Ocean City!

Looking for bartenders, cashiers, cooks, housekeepers, activities attendants, front desk agents, security, and maintenance!

Starting at $15/hour and up!

Call 410-213-0097 or email careers@ eoshospitality.com to inquire.

An

Currently looking for two part-time Pool Attendants

Seasonal May 24 through Sept. 2. Shift Monday through Sunday, 10am to 4pm and 4-10pm. Duties include enforcing the pool rules as posted and checking pool bands. Send resume to Kristin.moore@ atlantisocmd.com

AUTOMOTIVE - MARINE

Auto Parts / Marine Parts with huge Retail department, is now hiring for: Parts Associates (will train). Locations in: Ocean Pines, Clarksville & Long Neck. Great Pay & Benefits. Call: 302-344-9769.

Small Engine Mechanic Year-round.

Competitive Wages. 443-754-1047

AUTOMOTIVE GREAT OPPORTUNITIES

Busy Tire & Service Centers

Now hiring for: - Service Associates (will train) - Exp. Technicians

Locations in: Ocean Pines, Clarksville & Long Neck.

Great Pay & Benefits. Call: 302-344-9846

Pool -

General Maintenance. Outdoor work, lifting heavy objects. Mechanical, basic pool pump & motors, CPO a plus / not required. Able to pass CPO test. Summer includes weekends & long hours; working alone or with others 410-289-4902 ask for Suzanne.

Help Wanted Full-Time Maintenance Person for a small community in the Berlin area. General maintenance knowledge needed. Good pay and benefits. Call 410-6415102. Large equipment experience helpful.

Office Adminstration for Condo Assn. Duties include answering phones, dealing with owner inquiries and other duties as assigned. Quickbooks experience pref. Mon., Wed.-Fri. from 8am to 4pm. Send resume to kristin.moore@ atlantisocmd.com

RENTALS

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

Summer Seasonal Memorial Day to Labor Day. Single family home. 2BR, 2BA. $22,000 + utilities. Cleaning once a month and lawn care will be included. Contact Karen 443-880-5727

Condo For Rent. 2BR/1BA, washer/dryer, central heat and air. Includes boat slip. 15th bayside, YR, $2200 + utilities. First and last month required. 410-430-7675

Fully Furnished Townhouse, 4BR/2BA, Living Room, Dining Room. Water, Electric and Cable not included. $2100/month. Located at 438 Ocean Parkway, Ocean Pines, MD 21811. 410-456-0272

Yearly lease. One month security deposit and one month rent upfront.

Seasonal Weekly Rental (ONLY). Single family home, Berlin, 4BR, 3BA, $625/per night. Call 484-319-7188 for details.

Looking For 4-Month

Summer Rental in Ocean City. Gentleman works on beach full-time downtown for local business. Excellent references. Call or text Charles, 410-294-1028.

ROOMMATES

Seeking Room For Rent or Live with Roommate, 57, male, moving from Baltimore, looking to live in OP/Berlin, starting June. Please call Phil, 443-388-2868

Houseshare. Furnished rooms in South Ocean Pines. All inclusive. $800 per month. Year-round. No smoking. No pets. Call 443-880-2317.

Roommate. Female. Large Condo on Water, 2BR, 2 full ba., sunroom, facing Fager’s Island. Room for privacy. Some storage space. 410-202-9434

Price negotiable.

Seeking Roommate To Share Home - Bayview Estates, Selbyville, DE. 5.7 miles to beach. $850/ month all inclusive. Private bedroom, shared bath, kitchen, living areas, outdoor space, W/D, with community pool. 302-386-7818

COMMERCIAL

Industrial Warehouse.

Space: 1500 sq. ft.

Masonry construction, 18’ high ceiling, large garage door, bathroom. Route 90/Bishopville. Call 443-497-4200.

1 Office/Retail Space available in West Ocean City. Approximately 1656 sq. ft. Call 443-497-4200

Commercial Space For Rent

West OC 2500 sq. feet. rental@ ocsandyfeetretreat.com or 910-448-1693

DONATIONS

Do you have an old bicycle not being used? It could mean a world of difference to a hard-working international student. We are looking to get as many bikes as possible. Your donation will be taxdeductible. Contact Gary at 443-975-3065.

The rising sun cries, “You can neer go, not now!” Turning, she is gone.

SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEES' SALE OF REAL PROPERTY AND ANY IMPROVEMENTS THEREON

6 MEADOW STREET BERLIN, MD 21811

Under a power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust dated March 26, 2009, recorded in Liber 5235, Folio 489 and re-recorded in Liber 5524, Folio 270 among the Land Records of Worcester County, MD, with an original principal balance of $450,000.00, default having occurred under the terms thereof, the Sub. Trustees will sell at public auction at the Circuit Court for Worcester County, at the Court House Door, One W. Market St., Snow Hill, MD 21863, on

APRIL 23, 2024 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 $21,000 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. 358852-1)

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

OCD-4/4/3t

Rosenberg & Associates, LLC

4340 East West Highway, Suite 600 Bethesda, MD 20814 (301) 907-8000

www.rosenberg-assoc.com

SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEES’ SALE OF IMPROVED REAL PROPERTY

6060 WORCESTER HWY. SNOW HILL, MD 21863

Under a power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust from Jessica C. Richardson dated May 30, 2002 and recorded in Liber 3352, folio 234 among the Land Records of Worcester County, MD, default having occurred under the terms thereof, the Trustees will sell at public auction at the Circuit Court for Worcester County, at the Court House Door, One W. Market St., Snow Hill, MD 21863, on

APRIL 9, 2024 AT 3:55 PM

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

Trust. Tax ID #02-006138 and #02006111.

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

Terms of Sale: A deposit of $10,000 in the form of certified check, cashier's check or money order will be required of the purchaser at time and place of sale. Balance of the purchase price to be paid in cash within ten days of final ratification of sale by the Circuit Court for Worcester County. Interest to be paid on the unpaid purchase money at the rate pursuant to the Deed of Trust Note from the date of sale to the date funds are received in the office of the Trustees. There will be no abatement of interest in the event additional funds are tendered before settlement or if settlement is delayed for any reason. The noteholder shall not be obligated to pay interest if it is the purchaser. TIME IS OF THE ESSENCE FOR THE PURCHASER. There will be no reduction of interest due to overpayment of deposit. Adjustment of all real property taxes (excluding recapture of previously reduced or exempt taxes) and any other public charges or assessments, to the extent such amount survive foreclosure sale, including water/sewer charges, and ground rent to be adjusted to date of sale and paid at execution of the deed, except where the secured party is the purchaser, and thereafter assumed by the purchaser. All due and/or unpaid private utility, water and sewer facilities charges, condo/HOA assessments and Columbia Assoc. assessments, to the extent such amount survive foreclosure sale, are payable by the purchaser without adjustment. Cost of all documentary stamps, transfer taxes, recaptured taxes (including but not limited to agricultural taxes), and settlement expenses shall be borne by the purchaser. Purchaser shall be responsible for obtaining physical possession of the property. Purchaser assumes the risk of loss or damage to the property from the date of sale forward. Additional terms to be announced at the time of sale.

If the Trustees are unable to convey good and marketable title, the purchaser's sole remedy in law and equity shall be limited to a refund of the deposit without interest. If the purchaser fails to go to settlement, the deposit shall be forfeited, to the Trustees for application against all expenses, attorney’s fees and the full commission on the sale price of the above-scheduled foreclosure sale. In the event of default, all expenses of this sale (including attorney’s fees and the full commission on the gross sale price of this sale) shall be charged against and paid out of the forfeited deposit. The Trustees may then re-advertise and resell the property at the risk and expense of the defaulting purchaser or may avail themselves of any legal or equitable remedies against the defaulting purchaser without reselling the property. In the event of a resale, the defaulting purchaser shall not be entitled to receive the surplus, if any,

even if such surplus results from improvements to the property by said defaulting purchaser and the defaulting purchaser shall be liable to the Trustees and secured party for reasonable attorney’s fees and expenses incurred in connection with all litigation involving the Property or the proceeds of the resale. Defaulting purchaser waives personal service of any document filed in connection with such a motion on him/herself and/or any principal or corporate designee, and expressly agrees to accept service of any such document by regular mail directed to the address provided by said purchaser at the time of the foreclosure auction. Trustees' file number 23000851-MD-F-1.

Diane S. Rosenberg, Mark D. Meyer, et al., Trustees OCD-3/21/3t

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

To all persons interested in the estate of GEORGE PETER DONALD CALOMIRIS Estate No. 20115 Notice is given that JOANN DEOUDES CALOMIRIS whose address is 11000 COASTAL HWY UNIT 912 OCEAN CITY, MD 21842 was on MARCH 13, 2024 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of GEORGE PETER DONALD CALOMIRIS who died on FEBRUARY 14, 2024 without a will. Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal representative or the attorney.

All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent's will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 13th day of SEPTEMBER, 2024

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-3/21/3t

REGAN J. R. SMITH ESQ

WILLIAMS, MOORE, SHOCKLEY & HARRISON LLP

3509 COASTAL HIGHWAY

OCEAN CITY, MD 21842

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

To all persons interested in the estate of RICHARD LEE COLE Estate No. 20117 Notice is given that ROBERT K COLE whose address is 1303 N BALTIMORE AVE UNIT 8 OCEAN CITY, MD 21842 was on MARCH 14, 2024 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of RICHARD LEE COLE who died on FEBRUARY 25, 2024 with a will.

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

All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent's will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 14th day of SEPTEMBER, 2024

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-3/21/3t _________________________________

MICHAEL B. MATHERS ESQ. WEBB, CORNBROOKS, WILBER, VORHIS, DOUSE & MATHERS, LLP

P.O.

184 Elm St., Amesbury, MA 019133423, was on March 14, 2024 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of James E. Thompson who died on February 10, 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 14th day of September, 2024.

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.

Susan Koso 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: March 21, 2024 OCD-3/21/3t _________________________________

ALFRED L. BRENNAN JR. BRENNAN AND BRENNAN ATTORNEYS AT LAW, P.A. 825 EASTERN BLVD. BALTIMORE, MD 21221-3504

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

Estate No. 20085 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF WALTER RICHARD SMITH

Notice is given that Sherry Cline Dougherty, 12201 Burncourt Rd., Unit 303, Timonium, MD 210938194, was on March 12, 2024 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Walter Richard Smith who died on February 10, 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 12th day of September, 2024.

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.

Sherry Cline Dougherty 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:

March 21, 2024

OCD-3/21/3t _________________________________

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 20119 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF JOSEPH EVANS STINE

Notice is given that Craig Stine, 840 Tremont Dr., Downingtown, PA 19335-4128, was on March 14, 2024 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Joseph Evans Stine who died on March 10, 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 14th day of September, 2024.

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.

Craig Stine 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: March 21, 2024

OCD-3/21/3t

Under the provisions of Section § 8-309 of the Transportation Article of the Annotated Code of Maryland.

AUCTION TO BE CON-

DUCTED: Tuesday, April 16, 2024, at 11:30am on the premises. The Auction will commence with registration beginning at 11:00am. All interested parties are encouraged to attend. In the event of inclement weather, the auction will be rescheduled to Tuesday, April 23, 2024.

SUBJECT: The former Robinson, Et Ux property. Auction to be held for ± 1.003 acres, located at 7575 Worcester Highway, Newark, Worcester County. The apparent zoning is Agricultural. For further information on any zoning matters, please contact Worcester County Planning Dept at 410-632-1200. In responding to this ad or for the purpose of any questions, please refer to MC# 23-1127.

TERMS OF SALE: A deposit in the form of a certified or cashier’s check in the amount of $12,500 shall be required from the successful bidder at the time of the Auction and shall be made payable to MDOT State Highway Administration. The balance of the purchase price is to be paid at the time of settlement or the deposit may be forfeited to MDOT SHA, and the property disposed of in whatever manner MDOT may determine, without any further obligation or liability to the buyer.

Settlement must occur within 90 days of “Notice of Approval of Sale” by MDOT. Any request for extension must be submitted, in writing, within 60 days of “Notice of Approval of Sale,” to the Chief, Office of Real Estate and Economic Development (ORED). An extension may be granted at the sole discretion of the ORED Chief and may require an additional deposit from the buyer. MDOT reserves the right to reject any and all bid offers.

IMPORTANT NOTICE: All property information contained herein is subject to independent verification by any and all interested parties;

whereas it is believed to be accurate it is in no way warranted. A requested bid offer is only a starting point for the Auction and may not be accepted by MDOT if it is not commensurate with the appraised value of the property, or there could be other reasons for the rejection of bid offers.

This sale is governed by the Offer for Purchase of Fee Simple Property. Any questions regarding the Auction may be directed to:

Ms. Mashel Wakil

Team Leader, Real Estate Services

Office of Real Estate and Economic Development Maryland

Department of Transportation

7201 Corporate Center Drive

Hanover MD 21076

Phone: 410-865-1234

Toll-free: 1-866-242-9405 mail: mwakil@mdot.maryland.gov

OCD-3/28/2t _________________________________

State of Connecticut

Court of Probate, Northern Fairfield County District

NOTICE

TO ASHLEY KAYLA ROUNDS

Pursuant to an order of Hon. Steven Boa DeMoura, Judge, a hearing will be held at Northern Fairfield County Probate Court, 1 School Street, Bethel, CT 06801 on April 4, 2024 at 3:30 PM on a petition for Removal of Guardian of the Person concerning a certain minor child born on February 16, 2018. The court's decision will affect your interest, if any, as in the petition on file more fully appears.

RIGHT TO COUNSEL: If the above-named person wishes to have an attorney, but is unable to pay for one, the court will provide an attorney upon proof of inability to pay. Any such request should be made immediately by contacting the court office where the hearing is to be held.

By order of the court

Jacqueline Buckle, Chief Clerk OCD-3/28/2t

BID SOLICITATION

CONCRETE PAD AT POCOMOKE CITY TRANSFER STATION

Worcester County is seeking Bids from qualified Vendors to contract for a concrete pad at the Pocomoke Homeowner Convenience Center in conformity with the requirements contained herein Bid Documents.

Bid Documents for the above referenced project may be obtained from the Worcester County Commissioner’s Office by either e-mailing the Procurement Officer, Nicholas Rice, at nrice@co.worcester.md.us or by calling 410-632-1194 during normal business hours, or via the County’s Bids page on the County’s website. Vendors are responsible for checking this website for addenda prior to submitting their bids. Worcester County is not responsible for the content of any Bid Document received through any third party bid service. It is the sole responsibility of the vendor to ensure the completeness and accuracy of their Com-

pleted Bid Documents.

The last day for questions will be noon on Wednesday, April 10, 2024. A pre-bid meeting will be held at 2:00pm on Monday, April 1, 2024 on site at 2733 Byrd Road, Pocomoke City, MD 21851 Sealed Bid Documents are due no later than 2:30pm on Thursday, April 18, 2024, and will be opened and read aloud in the Office of the County Commissioners, Worcester County Government Center – Room 1103, One West Market Street, Snow Hill, Maryland 21863.

Late Bid Documents will not be accepted.

Envelopes shall be marked " Bid Solicitation – Concrete Pad at Pocomoke City Transfer Station.” 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-3/28/2t

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

To all persons interested in the estate of PAUL KIRK JOHNSON SR Estate No. 20126 Notice is given that PAUL KIRK JOHNSON JR whose address is 108 CHERRY LEA LANE BLAIRSVILLE, GA 30512 was on MARCH 21, 2024 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of PAUL KIRK JOHNSON SR who died on DECEMBER 09, 2023 with a will.

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

All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent's will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 21st day of SEPTEMBER, 2024.

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

ROOM 102 - COURT HOUSE

SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1074 OCD-3/28/3t

RACHEL B HARRIS

P O BOX 62

POCOMOKE CITY, MD 21851

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

To all persons interested in the estate of SYLVIA THERESA BRATTEN AKA: SYLVIA T PALMER Estate No. 20128 Notice is given that JOSEPH SEARING whose address is 8253 SEA BISCUIT RD SNOW HILL, MD 21863-4306 was on MARCH 22, 2024 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of SYLVIA THERESA BRATTEN who died on MARCH 09, 2024 without a will.

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

All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent's will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 22nd day of SEPTEMBER, 2024

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-3/28/3t

Spencer Ayres Cropper

Ayres, Jenkins, Gordy & Almand, P.A.

6200 Coastal Highway, Suite 200 Ocean City, MD 12842

Oceana Condominium Association

c/o Ayres, Jenkin, Gordy & Almand, P.A.

6200 Coastal Highway, Suite 200 Ocean City, Maryland 21842 Plaintiff

vs.

Diana J. Brooks

Byron L. Brooks, III 8203 Atlantic Avenue, Unit P-8, Bldg. 2 Ocean City, MD 21842 Defendant IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF MARYLAND FOR WORCESTER COUNTY

NOTICE

ORDERED, by the Circuit Court for Worcester County this 25th day of March, 2024, that the foreclosure sale of Oceana Condominium, Unit P-8, 8203 Atlantic Avenue, Ocean City, Maryland, made and reported by Spencer Ayres Cropper, Trustee, be RATIFIED AND CONFIRMED, unless cause to the contrary thereof be shown on or before the 22nd day of April, 2024, provided a copy of this Order is published in a newspaper of general circulation in Worcester County, Maryland, once in three successive weeks, before the 15th day of April, 2024.

The Report states that the total proceeds from the sale of the property to be Ten Thousand Five Hundred Dollars ($10,500.00).

Susan R. Braniecki Clerk Circuit Court

True Copy Test: Susan R. Braniecki Clerk of the Circuit Court Worcester County, MD OCD-3/28/3t

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, April 11, 2024

At 2:00 p.m.

PW 24-013 A request has been submitted to extend two piers by 1’5” and one mooring pile by 1’5”. The south pier will be a channelward extension of 14’10” and the north pier will be a channelward extension of 15’3”. The single mooring pile will extend a total of 15’ channelward. The southernmost poles will not be moved and remain in exact location. The site of the proposed construction is described as being located at 1505 ST LOUIS AVE Parcel # 3349 -34 in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.

APPLICANT/OWNER: Acres R Us, LLC

PW24-015 A request has been submitted to construct a 3.5’ x 15’ extension to an existing 3.5’ x 35’ shared pier for a total length of 50’, to move existing lifts towards pier end and install one mooring pile. All construction not to exceed maximum channelward extension of 50’. The site of the proposed construction is described as being located at 639

Parcel

OWNER: John Thomas & Carol Hoffman

APPLICANT: McGinty Marine Construction

PW 24-016

A request has been submitted to remove existing 4’ x 35’ pier and construct a new 6’ x 45’ pier; relocate existing lifts further channelward. All construction not to exceed 47.5’ channelward. The site of the proposed construction is described as being located at 615 PENGUIN DR Parcel # 4481 -53 in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.

OWNER: Timothy & Bonnie Moore

APPLICANT: McGinty Marine Construction

PW 24-017

A request has been submitted to repair with vinyl replacement ~40’ of deteriorated timber bulkhead using batter piles, reconstructing an existing 4.5’ x 40’ dock over batter piles; construct a new perpendicular 6’ x 48’ pier, relocate boat lift to end of pier and to install one (1) new boat lift and two (2) PWC lifts with associated pilings a maximum of 50’ channelward. The site of the proposed construction is described as being located at 503 HARBOUR DR Parcel # 8020A1573B- in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.

OWNER: Paul Konschack

APPLICANT: J. Stacey Hart, JSH, Inc.

PW 24-018

A request has been submitted to construct a 6’ x 16’ parallel dock and a 4’ x 34’ perpendicular pier and install one (1) boat lift with associated pilings a maximum of 40’ channelward of existing bulkhead. The site of the proposed construction is described as being located at 905 EDGEWATER AVE UNIT 3 Parcel # 3739 -3 in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.

OWNER: Duane & Michele Starnes

APPLICANT: J. Stacey Hart & Assoc., Inc.

PW 24-019 A request has been submitted to install one PWC lift and one boat lift on existing pilings a maximum channelward extension of 33’. The site of the proposed construction is described as being located at 1907 MARLIN DR Parcel # 3301 -91 in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.

OWNER: Stephen Pulley & Kathleen Sardella

APPLICANT: J. Stacey Hart & Assoc., Inc.

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NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING WORCESTER COUNTY BOARD OF ZONING APPEALS

THURSDAY,APRIL 11, 2024

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.

6:30 p.m. Case No. 24-25, on the lands of Phillip Hamblin requesting

a variance to the rear yard setback from 5 feet to 3 feet (to encroach 2 feet) for an open deck addition in the A-2 Agricultural District, pursuant to Zoning Code §§ ZS 1-116(c)(4), ZS 1-202(c)(18) and ZS 1-318, located at 8505 N. Longboat Way, Tax Map 33, Parcel 347, Lot 225A, Tax District 10, Worcester County, Maryland.

6:35 p.m.

Case No. 24-24, on the lands of Andrew Wagner, requesting a special exception to allow 6-foottall fencing in a front yard setback, pursuant to Zoning Code §§ ZS 1116(c)(3), & ZS 1-305(k)(3) located at 8248 Shire Drive, Tax Map 32, Parcel 243, Tax District 3, Worcester County, Maryland.

6:40 p.m.

Case No. 24-26, on the lands of Aaron Lovegrove, requesting a variance to the Atlantic Coastal Bays Critical Area Ordinance to allow a fence within the 100’ buffer, pursuant to Natural Resources Code §§ NR 3-104(c)(4) and NR 3-111 and Zoning Code §§ ZS 1116(m)(1), located at 12357 Hidden Bay Drive, Tax Map 33, Parcel 281, Lot 37, Tax District 10, Worcester County, Maryland.

6:45 p.m.

Case No. 24-27 on the lands of Joseph Serman, Jr., requesting a variance to a front yard setback from 50 feet to 20 feet (to encroach 30 feet) and a variance to the front yard setback from 60 feet to the center of the road right-of-way to 35.7 (to encroach 24.3 feet) for a proposed single family dwelling in the A-1 Agricultural District, pursuant to Zoning Code §§ ZS 1116(c)(4), ZS 1-201(b)(5) and ZS 1-305, located at 7628 Public Landing Road, Tax Map 64, Parcel 51, Tax District 2, Worcester County, Maryland.

6:50 p.m. Re-advertisement of Case No. 24-11, on the lands of Joseph Bordenski, on the application of Kristina Watkowski, requesting a variance to the rear yard setback from 30 feet to 15.05 feet (to encroach 14.95 feet) and a variance to the front yard setback from 50 feet to the center of the road right-of-way to 35.46 (to encroach 14.54 feet) for a proposed single family dwelling in the R-2 Suburban Residential District, pursuant to Zoning Code §§ ZS 1-116(c)(4), ZS 1-206(b)(2) and ZS 1305, located on Snug Harbor Road about 1,002 feet east of the intersection with Meadow Drive, Tax Map 33, Parcel 346, Section A, Lot 21, Tax District 10, Worcester County, Maryland.

6:55 p.m. Case No. 24-29, on the lands of George Tunis, on the application of Kristina Watkowski, requesting a special exception (transient use) to allow a special event in the R-3 Multi-family Residential District, pursuant to Zoning Code Sections ZS 1-105(c)(5), ZS 1116(c)(3) and ZS 1-337, located at 12942 Old Bridge Road, Tax Map 27, Parcel 487, Lots 24, 25, 26 & 27,Tax District 10, Worcester County, Maryland.

7:00 p.m. Case No. 24-28, on the lands of Tina Warren, requesting a special exception to allow a kennel for the boarding of household pets and variances to the separation distance of 200 feet from all property lines for an outside pen to 20 feet from the right side property line (to

encroach 180 feet), 55 feet from the front property line (to encroach 150 feet), 28 feet from the left property line (to encroach 172 feet) and a variance to the lot width of 200 feet to 149.1 feet (to reduce by 50.9 fee t) in the A-1 Agricultural District, pursuant to Zoning Code Sections ZS 1116(c)(3), ZS 1-116(c)(4), ZS 1-201(c)(30), ZS 1-305 and ZS 1-325, located at 10052 Hayes Landing Road, Tax Map 32, Parcel 358, Lot 3, Tax District 3, Worcester County, Maryland.

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BWW Law Group, LLC

6003 Executive Blvd., Suite 101 Rockville, MD 20852

CARRIE M. WARD, et al.

6003 Executive Blvd., Suite 101 Rockville, MD 20852

Substitute Trustees/ Plaintiffs

vs.

JOHN E. ROBERTS (DECEASED)

56 Coastal Drive Berlin, MD 21811-9620

Defendant(s) IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR WORCESTER COUNTY, MARYLAND

Case No. C-23-CV-23-000018

NOTICE

Notice is hereby given this 20th day of March, 2024, by the Circuit Court for Worcester County, Maryland, that the sale of the property mentioned in these proceedings and described as 56 Coastal Drive, Berlin, MD 21811-9620, made and reported by the Substitute Trustee, will be RATIFIED AND CONFIRMED, unless cause to the contrary thereof be shown on or before the 22nd day of April, 2024, provided a copy of this NOTICE be inserted in some weekly newspaper printed in said County, once in each of three successive weeks before the 15th day of April, 2024.

The report states the purchase price at the Foreclosure sale to be $57,000.00.

Susan R. Braniecki Clerk, Circuit Court for Worcester County, Maryland

True Copy

Test:

Susan R. Braniecki Clerk of the Circuit Court Worcester County MD OCD-3/28/3t

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

To all persons interested in the estate of WALTER J. DENNIS Estate No. 20121 Notice is given that DENISE LANE whose address is 10419 GEORGETOWN ROAD, BERLIN, MD 21811 was on MARCH 19, 2024 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of WALTER J. DENNIS who died on MARCH 03, 2024 with a will.

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

All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate

of the decedent's will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 19th day of SEPTEMBER, 2024.

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-3/28/3t

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, April 11, 2024 at 6:00 PM

Pursuant to the provisions of Section 110-93(2), Powers of the Code, an appeal of Sections 110-94(3)(a) and 110-94(3)(c) has been filed to request (1) a special yard exception from the western side yard for a proposed dwelling to be 0.69 feet from the side property site line; and, (2) a special yard exception from the front yard for a proposed dwelling to be 0.34 feet from the front property site line. The site of the appeal is described as Lot 24A, Section A, of the Warren’s Park Co-op Plat. It is further described as being located on the south side of Middle Way Lane and is locally known as 47 Middle Way Lane, in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.

APPLICANT: CINDY FRIDLEY

(BZA 2683 #24-09400006) at 6:10 PM

Pursuant to the provisions of Section 110-93(2), Powers of the Code,

an appeal of Sections 110-94(3)(a) and 110-94(2)(b) has been filed to request (1) a special yard exception from the front yard to build upon an existing dwelling that has a legally nonconforming front yard setback of 8 feet, rather than 10 feet required by Code; and (2) a special parking exception to waive 0.5 (1) parking space from the required three (3) parking spaces. The site of the appeal is described as Lot 7 of the plat entitled “Beach Plat – Ocean City, Worcester County, Maryland”. It is further described as being located on the east side of Wight Street and is locally known as 14022 Wight Street, in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.

APPLICANT: ROBERT WRIGHT AND TERESA RODRIGUEZWRIGHT (BZA 2684 #2409400007)

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-3/28/2t

TOWN OF BERLIN, MARYLAND NOTICE OF PASSAGE OF ORDINANCE NO. 2024-01

Notice is hereby given that Ordinance No. 2024-01 was passed by the Council of the Town of Berlin on Monday, March 25, 2024. The Ordinance may be petitioned to referendum so long as the petition is filed not later than April 15, 2024. The title of the Ordinance is as follows: MAYOR AND COUNCIL OF BERLIN INFRASTRUCTURE BONDS, 2024 SERIES A - AN ORDINANCE OF THE COUNCIL OF MAYOR AND COUNCIL OF BERLIN, A MUNICIPAL CORPORATION OF THE STATE OF MARYLAND (THE “ISSUER”), PROVIDING FOR THE ISSUANCE AND SALE OF AN AGGREGATE PRINCIPAL AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED THREE MILLION EIGHT HUNDRED THOUSAND DOLLARS ($3,800,000.00) OF GENERAL OBLIGATION BONDS OF MAYOR AND COUNCIL OF BERLIN, MARYLAND, TO BE KNOWN AS THE “MAYOR AND COUNCIL OF BERLIN INFRASTRUCTURE BONDS, 2024 SERIES A” (OR BY SUCH OTHER OR ADDITIONAL DESIGNATION OR DESIGNATIONS AS REQUIRED BY THE COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT ADMINISTRATION IDENTIFIED HEREIN, THE “BONDS”), TO BE ISSUED AND SOLD PURSUANT TO THE AUTHORITY OF SECTIONS 4-101 THROUGH 4 255 OF THE HOUSING AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT ARTICLE OF THE ANNOTATED CODE OF MARYLAND, AS AMENDED, FOR THE PURPOSE OF PROVIDING

ALL OR A PORTION OF THE FUNDS NECESSARY FOR (I) FINANCING, REIMBURSING AND/OR REFINANCING COSTS OF THE PROJECTS GENERALLY REFERRED TO BY THE ISSUER AS (A) ELECTRIC AMI METER SYSTEM AND (B) PUBLIC WORKS BUILDING, (II) FUNDING A PORTION OF A CAPITAL RESERVE FUND AND/OR OTHER RESERVES, AND/OR (III) PAYING OR REIMBURSING ISSUANCE AND OTHER COSTS RELATED TO THE BONDS; PROVIDING THAT THE BONDS SHALL BE ISSUED UPON THE FULL FAITH AND CREDIT OF THE ISSUER; PROVIDING FOR THE DISBURSEMENT OF THE PROCEEDS OF THE SALE OF THE BONDS AND FOR THE LEVY OF ANNUAL TAXES UPON ALL ASSESSABLE PROPERTY WITHIN THE CORPORATE LIMITS OF THE ISSUER FOR THE PAYMENT OF THE PRINCIPAL OF AND INTEREST ON THE BONDS AS THEY SHALL RESPECTIVELY MATURE OR COME DUE; PROVIDING FOR THE FORMS, TENOR, DENOMINATIONS, MATURITY DATE OR DATES AND OTHER PROVISIONS OF THE BONDS; PROVIDING FOR THE SALE OF THE BONDS; AND PROVIDING FOR RELATED PURPOSES, INCLUDING, WITHOUT LIMITATION, THE METHOD OF FIXING THE INTEREST RATE OR RATES TO BE BORNE BY THE BONDS, THE APPROVAL, EXECUTION AND DELIVERY OF DOCUMENTS, AGREEMENTS, CERTIFICATES AND INSTRUMENTS, AND THE MAKING OF OR PROVIDING FOR THE MAKING OF REPRESENTATIONS AND COVENANTS CONCERNING THE TAX STATUS OF INTEREST ON THE BONDS.

The Ordinance can be viewed in its entirety during regular business hours at Berlin Town Hall, 10 William Street, Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM or on the Town website at www.berlinmd.gov. OCD-3/28/2t

NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE LICENSE

Application has been made by the Undersigned for a Transfer for a Class: "B" BEER-WINE-LIQUOR

License: 7 Day, By: William Henry Purnell III, 15 Somerset Street, Ocean City, Maryland 21842.

For: OC Taco Truck, Inc.

For the premises known as and located at:

T/A: Caruso Pizza & Wild Bill's 420 Atlantic Avenue & Boardwalk

Ocean City, Maryland 21842

Formerly: Great Bay, LLC

There will be a public hearing on the application in the Board Room, Room 1102 in the Government Center, Snow Hill, Maryland, on:

April 17, 2024

@ 1:00 P.M.

The Board welcomes written or oral comment at said public hearing from any interested party.

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NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE LICENSE

from any interested party.

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BEER-WINE-LIQUOR

Application has been made by the Undersigned for a Transfer for a Class: "B"

License: 7 Day, By: Vahagn Piltoyan, 11952 Pleasant Colony Lane 106, Berlin, Maryland 21811; Asya Sargisova, 11952 Pleasant Colony Lane 106, Berlin, Maryland 21811

For: Vana Foods, Inc.

For the premises known as and located at:

T/A: Little House of Pancakes, Ribs & Pizza

7307 Coastal Highway

Ocean City, Maryland 21842

Formerly: RLD Restaurants, Inc.

There will be a public hearing on the application in the Board Room, Room 1102 in the Government Center, Snow Hill, Maryland, on: April 17, 2024

@ 1:10 P.M.

The Board welcomes written or oral comment at said public hearing from any interested party.

OCD-4/4/2t

NOTICE

OF APPLICATION FOR ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE LICENSE

Application has been made by the Undersigned for a Class: "A" BEERWINE License: 7 Day, By: Megan Reese Hines, 328 Buttercup Court, Berlin, Maryland 21811; Brett Ewing Hines, 328 Buttercup Court, Berlin, Maryland 21811.

For: Jun & Juice, LLC

For the premises known as and located at:

T/A: Jun & Juice

12 Pitts Street

Berlin, Maryland 21811

There will be a public hearing on the application in the Board Room, Room 1102 in the Government Center, Snow Hill, Maryland, on: April 17, 2024

@ 1:25 P.M.

The Board welcomes written or oral comment at said public hearing from any interested party.

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NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE LICENSE

Application has been made by the Undersigned for a Transfer for a Class: "B" BEER-WINE License: 7 Day, By: Tara Nicole Talbot, 5 Powellton Avenue, Berlin, Maryland 21811.

For: Propagate, LLC

For the premises known as and located at:

T/A: REVERIE Arbor & Wine Bar 7 South Main Street Berlin, Maryland 21811

Formerly: Health Freedom, LLC

There will be a public hearing on the application in the Board Room, Room 1102 in the Government Center, Snow Hill, Maryland, on: April 17, 2024

@ 1:35 P.M.

The Board welcomes written or oral comment at said public hearing

NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE LICENSE

Application has been made by the Undersigned for a Class: "B" BEERWINE-LIQUOR License: 7 Day, By: Burak Unal Kucuk, 10205 Bent Creek Road, Ocean City, Maryland 21842; Gai Elbaz, 10203 Willow Brook Road, Berlin, Maryland 21811.

For: Ocean City Investments, Inc.

For the premises known as and located at: T/A: Kalamata Restaurant 12849 Ocean Gateway Ocean City, Maryland 21842

There will be a public hearing on the application in the Board Room, Room 1102 in the Government Center, Snow Hill, Maryland, on: April 17, 2024 @ 1:45 P.M.

The Board welcomes written or oral comment at said public hearing from any interested party.

NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE LICENSE

Application has been made by the Undersigned for a "B" B/W/L 7 Day and Request to designate as Multiple License #2 for a Class: "B" BEER-WINE-LIQUOR License: 7 Day, By: Meghan Leigh Newberger, 475 Dueling Way, Berlin, Maryland 21811; Heather Welch, 6834 Shockley Road, Snow Hill, Maryland 21863; Jason Welch, 6834 Shockley Road, Snow Hill, Maryland 21863. For: BourAgave, LLC

For the premises known as and located at: T/A: BourAgave Bourbon & Tequila Joint 104 North Main Street Berlin, Maryland 21811

There will be a public hearing on the application in the Board Room, Room 1102 in the Government Center, Snow Hill, Maryland, on: April 17, 2024 @ 2:00 P.M.

The Board welcomes written or oral comment at said public hearing from any interested party.

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B. RANDALL COATES ESQ COATES, COATES, & COATES

204 WEST GREEN STREET, P.O. BOX 293

SNOW HILL, MD 21863

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 20133

TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF VANESSA MARIE D’ARVILLE

Notice is given that Sasha Darville, 1505 Lowell Ct., Crofton, MD 21114-1188, was on March 26, 2024 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Vanessa Marie D’Arville who died on February 21,

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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 26th day of September, 2024.

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.

Sasha D’Arville 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

sonal representative or file it with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates:

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

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

Brook R. Sullivan

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:

April 4, 2024

Notice is given that Brook R. Sullivan, 2709 Berryland Dr., Oakton, VA 22124-1404, was on March 28, 2024 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Ellen Sullivan who died on March 10, 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 28th day of September, 2024.

Any person having a claim against the decedent must present the claim to the undersigned per-

forms may be obtained from the Register of Wills.

Lisa Goretsas 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: April 04, 2024

OCD-4/4/3t _________________________________

TOWN OF BERLIN, MARYLAND NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING ORDINANCE 2024-02

ments. A pre-proposal meeting will be held virtually via Google Meets on April 11, 2024, at 2:00pm. The last day for questions will be noon on April 23, 2024. Sealed Proposal Documents are due no later than 2:30pm on May 1, 2024, and will be opened 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 – Needs Assessment for Children, Youth and Families" 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-4/4/1t

TORRA B. HAUSMANN

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HOLLY A. MUSSELMAN, ESQ.

201 W. PADONIA ROAD, STE. 101 PHOENIX, MD 21131

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 20129 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF LOUIS DAVID

Notice is given that Lisa Goretsas, 1103 Barley Cutter Rd., Hampstead, MD 21074-1510, was on March 28, 2024 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Louis David who died on January 05, 2024, without a will.

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

All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent’s will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 28th day of September, 2024.

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

AN ORDINANCE OF THE MAYOR AND COUNCIL OF THE TOWN OF BERLIN, MARYLAND, A MARYLAND MUNICIPAL CORPORATION, SETTING THE REAL PROPERTY TAX RATE FOR FISCAL YEAR 2025

The Ordinance will be introduced for a first reading on Monday, April 8, 2024, at 7:00 PM. The public hearing on the Ordinance will be held on Monday, April 22, 2024, at 7:00 PM. Both meetings will be held during Regular Meetings of the Mayor and Council Berlin Town Hall, 10 William Street, 2nd Floor, Berlin, MD 21811.

The hearing is open to the public, and public testimony is encouraged.

Persons with questions regarding this hearing may call 410-641-2770 for further information.

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PROPOSAL SOLICITATION

Needs Assessment for Children, Youth and Families

Worcester County is seeking proposals from individuals or organizations to develop a Needs Assessment for children, youth, and families in Worcester County.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 Docu-

200 WESTGATE CIR., STE. 500 ANNAPOLIS, MD 21401-3374

SMALL ESTATE NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE NO. 20139

TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF NEVA VIVIAN O’HARA

Notice is given that Wendy Gary, 11325 LA Hwy. 92, Maurice, LA 70555-3103, was on March 29, 2024 appointed personal representative of the small estate of Neva Vivian O’Hara who died on May 10, 2023, without a will.

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

All persons having any objection to the appointment shall file their objections with the Register of Wills within 30 days after the date of publication of this Notice. All persons having an objection to the probate of the will shall file their objections with the Register of Wills within six months after the date of publication of this Notice.

All persons having claims against the decedent must serve their claims on the undersigned personal representative or file them with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates:

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

(2) Thirty days after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claim within thirty days from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. Any claim not served or filed within that time, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter.

Wendy Gary Personal Representative

Name of newspaper designated by personal representative:

Ocean City Digest

Date of publication:

April 04, 2024

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TOWN OF OCEAN CITY ORDINANCE 2024-04

RE: Authorizing Paid Parking

Notice is hereby given by the Mayor and City Council of Ocean City, that Ordinance 2024-04 was introduced for first reading at their meeting of April 1, 2024. Second reading is scheduled April 15, 2024. A complete text of the ordinance is available for review in the Office of the City Clerk, City Hall 3rd Street and Baltimore Avenue, Ocean City, MD 21842, or online at oceancitymd.gov in the April 1, 2024, agenda packet. This ordinance adds head-in, paid parking along 3rd and 4th Streets due to the development of the Downtown Recreation Complex and includes housekeeping revisions to update metered parking locations.

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NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 20134

TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF ROBERT P. AUKER

Notice is given that Michael C. Hutnick, Jr., 450 Riverview Ave., Bloomsburg, PA 17815-8224, was on March 27, 2024 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Robert P. Auker who died on January 16, 2024, with a will.

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

All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent’s will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 27th day of September, 2024.

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 no-

tice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claims within two months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. A claim not presented or filed on or before that date, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter. Claim forms may be obtained from the Register of Wills.

Michael C. Hutnick 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:

April 4, 2024

OCD-4/4/3t

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE

TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

Estate No. 20136 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF STEVEN W. BAKER

Notice is given that James Baker, 3114 Cedarhurst Rd., Baltimore, MD 21214-3235 was on March 28, 2024 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Steven W. Baker who died on March 16, 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 28th day of September, 2024.

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.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE

Notice is given that the Circuit court of Martin County, Florida appointed Jeffrey S. Mahan, 16 Carvel Dr., Annapolis, MD 21409-6246; and Mark C. Mahan, 1006 Placid Ct., Arnold, MD 21012-1638 as the Personal Representatives of the Estate of Dorothy E. Mahan who died on April 07, 2023 domiciled in Florida, America.

The Maryland resident agent for service of process is Wayne T. Kosmeri, Esq. whose address is 125 West Street, 4th Floor, Annapolis, MD 21401.

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.

Jeffrey S. Mahan

Mark C. Mahan

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: April 04, 2024

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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.

Notice is given that Helen Lockwood, 10123 Shingle Landing Rd., Bishopville, MD 21813-1435, was on March 26, 2024 appointed personal representative of the small estate of Vonda L. Briddell who died on Jauary 25, 2024, without a will.

Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or

given that Nikiera Bishop, 505 W. 7th St., Apt. 1303, Charlotte, NC 28202-1857, was on March 25, 2024 appointed personal representative of the small estate of Demontae L. Bishop who died on January 26, 2024, without a will. Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal representative or the attorney.

All persons having any objection to the appointment shall file their objections with the Register of Wills within 30 days after the date of publication of this Notice. All persons having an objection to the probate of the will shall file their objections with the Register of Wills within six months after the date of publication of this Notice.

All persons having claims against the decedent must serve their claims on the undersigned personal representative or file them with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier

of the following dates:

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

(2) Thirty days after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claim within thirty days from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. Any claim not served or filed within that time, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter.

Nikiera Bishop Personal Representative

True Test Copy

Register of Wills for Worcester County Terri Westcott

One W. Market Street

Room 102 - Court House

Snow Hill, MD 21863-1074

Name of newspaper designated by personal representative:

Ocean City Digest

Date of publication:

April 4, 2024

OCD-4/4/1t

TOWN OF OCEAN CITY ORDINANCE 2024-05

RE: Employees of Ocean City Pension Plan and Trust

Notice is hereby given by the Mayor and City Council of Ocean City, that Ordinance 2024-05 was introduced for first reading at their meeting of April 1, 2024. Second reading is scheduled April 15, 2024. A complete text of the ordinance is available for review in the Office of the City Clerk, City Hall 3rd Street and Baltimore Avenue, Ocean City, MD 21842, or online at oceancitymd.gov in the April 1, 2024, agenda packet. This ordinance extends the Deferred Retirement Option Program eligibility for the director of public works by up to three years or until December 31, 2030.

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Notice is given that Terry Robin Holley, 2001 Malvern Dr., Kingsport, TN 37660-5016, was on March 25, 2024 appointed personal representative of the small estate of Gwinda Lynne Smith who died on December 08, 2006, without a will.

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

All persons having any objection to the appointment shall file their objections with the Register of Wills within 30 days after the date of publication of this Notice. All persons having an objection to the probate of the will shall file their objections with the Register of Wills within six months after the date of publication of this Notice.

All persons having claims against the decedent must serve their claims on the undersigned personal representative or file them with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates:

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

(2) Thirty days after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claim within thirty days from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. Any claim not served or filed within that time, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter.

Terry Robin

Holley Personal Representative True Test Copy

Register of Wills for Worcester County Terri Westcott

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

Name of newspaper designated by personal representative:

Ocean City Digest

Date of publication: April 4, 2024

OCD-4/4/1t

SMALL ESTATE NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

To all persons interested in the estate of BRENDA K. JAHN Estate No. 20137 Notice is given that PAUL JAHN JR. whose address is 46 SUNDIAL CIR., BERLIN, MD 218111545 was on MARCH 28, 2024 appointed personal representative(s) of the small estate of BRENDA K. JAHN who died on MARCH 19, 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.

Local bikers to host shore Autism ride on April 13

(April 5, 2024) The Bikers Without Borders Foundation is hosting its third Bikers for Autism Ride on April 13.

The escorted ride starts at Rommel Harley-Davidson Delmarva in Salisbury, run through the shore communities, and end at the Showell Fire Department. The event will raise funds for the Autistic Children’s Support Group of Worcester County.

Bike registration will be held from 9:3011 a.m. at Rommel Harley-Davidson Delmarva. The $25 per person registration fee includes a barbecue chicken lunch at the end of the ride. Following the ride, the Bikers Without Borders Foundation will join other enthusiasts for a community get together at the Showell Fire Department.

The Autistic Children’s Support Group of Worcester County is an all-volunteer nonprofit that provides support to regional families of children with autism and related development disabilities. The group was formed by parents who wanted to provide parent-to-parent support. For more information, visit the ACSG at acsgwc.org.

Bikers Without Borders Foundation is comprised of men and women who believe giving back is a civic duty. Members are motorcycle riders and non-riders who participate in charitable and volunteer activities.

Summer Work Travel Conference topics outlined

(April 5, 2024) Area business representatives interested in employing J-1 Visa students are invited to attend the 2024 Summer Work Travel Conference later this month.

Set 8 a.m. to 1 p.m., April 15, at the Holiday Inn Oceanfront, the conference is a place for employers to learn about best practices for a successful 2024 Summer Work Travel Program in Ocean City.

The Greater Ocean City Chamber of Commerce, in partnership with Bridge USA, is hosting the event through partnerships with sponsor organizations United Work & Travel, Intrax, Aspire, InterExchange, Greenheart and GeoVisions.

Topics covered will include housing, banking, Social Security, emergency evacuation plan, health care/mental health and community support. Speakers include US Department of State Deputy Assistant Secretary Rebecca Pasini, elected officials and representatives from Sprintax tax compliance software.

The event is free for employers and includes continental breakfast. Pre-registration is encouraged. To register, visit bit.ly/SWT2024 or contact Ocean City Chamber Events Manager Colby Noble at colby@oceancity.org or 410-213-0144 ext. 110.

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AI’s features impacting real estate industry

Range of capabilities can make transactions more productive and efficient

By Lauren Bunting Contributing Writer

(April 5, 2024) Artificial intelligence, widely known as AI, is quickly entering and altering the real estate industry. It’s wide range of capabilities can greatly increase efficiency and improve productivity.

The National Association of Realtors provided a breakdown of the advantages and applications of AI for real estate professionals, and they go well beyond ChatGPT functions. The three areas they covered were predictive analytics, generative AI, and computer vision.

Predictive analytics, which leverages historical data and algorithms to forecast trends and make accurate predictions, allows real estate professionals AI-powered tools to analyze market conditions, evaluate property

GENERAL DENTISTRY

values, and identify investment opportunities with greater precision. By harnessing the power of predictive analytics, businesses can make more informed decisions, mitigate risks, and optimize their strategies to stay ahead in a competitive market.

Generative AI is another powerful tool that can significantly benefit the real estate industry. This technology allows for the automated creation of tasks, including listing descriptions, property searches, marketing content, and more. By automating repetitive tasks, Realtors can free up valuable time and resources, enabling their teams to focus on higher-value activities.

Computer vision is another facet of AI, and it can be used to analyze property images and videos, extract valuable information, and even identify property features such as swimming pools or garden spaces.

This not only enhances the efficiency of property evaluation but also improves the accuracy of property listings, providing potential buyers with a more comprehensive view of the properties they are interested in.

OC pension amendment approved

made to keep public works director in place to oversee projects

By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor Change

(April 5, 2024) A change to the town’s pension plan will extend the public works director’s participation in a deferred retirement option program, giving him more time to complete special projects.

On Monday, the Mayor and Council voted 6-0, with Councilman John Gehrig absent, to approve an amendment to the town’s employee pension plan and trust. The change will extend the special deferred retirement option program (DROP) eligibility for the town’s public works director.

“I will gladly make a motion for this,” Council Secretary Tony DeLuca said.

Simply put, the town’s DROP allows long-tenured employees eligible for retirement to begin accumulating benefits while continuing to work for

the town for a set amount of time. Currently, there are two general employees who participate in the program – City Manager Terry McGean and Public Works Director Hal Adkins.

Presented on first reading this week, the amendment to the town’s pension plan and trust will extend the DROP eligibility for Adkins. While his sunset date for retirement was initially set at Dec. 31, 2027, the change extends the DROP up to Dec. 31, 2030.

He said the extension will allow him to oversee the redevelopment of Baltimore Avenue – a project that recently received $20 million in federal funding – and provide training to the next generation of leaders in the public works division.

“When considering the number of long-term staff that have recently retired, coupled with numerous long term … public works management staff that will be retiring in the next few years, I take it very personal to ‘assure there is not only a smooth

transition in those who assume the new management roles/titles but equally, if not more importantly, that they have the knowledge to carry this town forward for the foreseeable future,’” he said in a statement this week. “Call it what you want. I have a tendency to call it ‘Nex Gen Training.’ A seamless transition of managers, silent to the public’s awareness, to assure those who chose to vacation here, live here, invest here, all have enjoyable experiences.”

Officials have said the DROP program is a benefit to the town, as it allows the participants to continue working through complex and lengthy projects without impacting the town’s financial position. For Adkins – who will reach 40 years of service to the town next month – the extension will allow him to continue working on the Baltimore Avenue project, a years-long effort to underground utilities and improve the streetscape along the corridor. Officials estimate work will take four years to complete.

— Lauren Bunting is the Broker of Record with Keller Williams Realty of Delmarva in Ocean City.

WRITING UNIT

From left, Ocean City Elementary School third graders Nyah Lopez, Alexis Frantz, Carlos Castellanos and Zein Abuahmedeh pose with speeches they wrote during a recent persuasive speech writing unit.  Students wrote about opinions they formed after reading a debate on topics such as, “Should Recess Be Longer?,” “Are Plastic Bags Helpful or Harmful?,” and “Should Students Have Assigned Seats in the Cafeteria?.”

Chamber set to host virtual job fair

(April 5, 2024) The Greater Ocean City Maryland Chamber of Commerce is partnering with Summer Jobs DelMarVa to host a virtual job fair from 2-6 p.m., April 22.

The fair is free to job seekers. Workers are needed in many local businesses, including restaurants, hotels, amusement parks, stores, banks, Beach Patrol and watersports.

Employers will be offering seasonal and year-round positions, as well as possible employer-provided housing. Employers will be able to engage with

job seekers in a variety of formats and have access to a network of Baltimore County high schools, as well as Delaware, Maryland and Virginia colleges. Local candidates are likely to attend the event as well, especially current workers who can’t take time off to attend an in-person job fair.

Booth fees include a customizable virtual booth, a user seat for one interviewer, chat, video and phone capabilities, the full list of participants with contact information, and a 30day job post on summerjobsdel-

marva.com ($75 value). Booths for chamber members are $250. Booths for non-members are $275. If a business joins the chamber within 30 days, $75 of the booth fee will be applied to membership.

For registration and more information on the virtual job fair visit chamber.oceancity.org/events/details/2024-ocean-city-virtual-jobfair-39934. Employers interested in a booth can contact Colby Noble at colby@oceancity.org or 410-2130144 ext. 110.

County slows private lane naming initiative in S. Point

Code requires unnamed road with several houses on it to have official name

By Charlene Sharpe Associate Editor

(April 5, 2024) County officials delayed renaming a private road in South Point in an effort to get more information.

The Worcester County Commissioners this week agreed to table the decision regarding the naming of a private lane in the South Point area. While staff presented potential names, the commissioners said they understood residents’ desire not to change their addresses. They asked staff to review potential alternatives.

“Let’s not make a decision today so that we can accommodate what the property owners would like as well,” Commissioner Chip Bertino said.

According to staff, an unnamed private lane in South Point was brought to their attention last fall following a fire at one of the handful of residences on the lane. Fire crews had trouble locating the house, as it is currently addressed off South Point Road even though it’s on a private lane. While staff presented a few po-

tential road names, three residents of the lane approached the commissioners to say they objected to the change.

“This lane has been there since 1971,” resident Giovanni David said.

He said the fire department had trouble finding the house that had the fire because its mailbox didn’t have proper numbering. He said if the homes on the lane had clearly visible numbers on their mailboxes the county wouldn’t need to name the lane.

Commissioner Jim Bunting said the lane should have been named properly years ago but acknowledged the hardship the residents would face in changing their addresses. Commissioners Eric Fiori and Joe Mitrecic agreed they didn’t want to make the residents change their addresses.

When asked for his input, Fire Marshal Matt Owens said he felt the addition of clear numbering at each house would help during an emergency situation.

While Fiori made a motion to leave the lane unnamed and have the residents number their houses, staff pointed out the county’s code requires private lanes with more than three houses to be named.

“This doesn’t seem any different

South Point lane under review

than any other private lane that would get a name,” said Roscoe Leslie, the county attorney.

Bertino said he was uncomfortable approving something that didn’t meet county code but acknowledged the commissioners’ desire to work with residents. At his suggestion, Fiori agreed to table his motion to

give staff time to review the situation.

“We have opportunity to vet other options to accommodate what the commissioners would like to do, what the property owners would like to do, and still meet county code, even if it means adjusting county code if in fact we decide to go that way,” Bertino said.

Open House Saturday 11am-2pm

SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH

The County Commissioners tabled a decision this week to rename a residential lane, pictured in red, in the South Point area.

Same location, new date for Decatur prom

By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor

(April 5, 2024) The Ocean City convention center will host Stephen Decatur High School’s prom after all, with a new date of May 11.

On Wednesday, Stephen Decatur High School announced to parents this year’s 2024 prom will continue to be held at its traditional location – the Roland E. Powell Convention Center –but on a different date than what was initially planned. The announcement comes more than a week after a “Prom on Main” concept failed to receive the support of the Berlin Town Council.

“It hasn’t come without some difficulty, but we are happy to announce that we have a wonderful venue for the Prom,” a post from the Stephen Decatur High School Facebook page reads. “While the date has changed,

the venue will continue to be the Roland E. Powell Convention Center. Thank you to our entire community for your support throughout this process.”

In February, prom organizers learned from convention center staff that the facility could not host the event on its April 27 date, as another group had already been booked. In the weeks that followed, Greenwood began working with Berlin Mayor Zack Tyndall on a plan to hold prom on Main Street.

However, when the concept was presented to the town council last week, several business owners came forward with their concerns that the closure of Main Street would hurt business on a spring Saturday. They also shared their frustrations that the business community had not been in-

cluded in the planning.

The topic of prom was also brought before the Ocean City Mayor and Council in a meeting Monday. During public comments, resident George Leukel questioned why the convention center “gave away” the April 27 date to another group.

“The April 27 date was never held,” City Manager Terry McGean responded. “They did not ask for that date. At the end of prom last year, they were not sure which date they wanted. We told them to make sure you get up with us well in advance. That did not happen. By the time they got up with us, which was in February, that date had been booked.”

Kim Mueller, director of sales for the convention center, said staff reached out to the school last May regarding potential scheduling conflicts on the spring 2024 convention center calendar. When they didn’t hear back about newly proposed dates, staff assumed an alternate location had been found.

“While the situation is unfortunate, we are committed to helping the school find a prom venue for 2024,” she said in a statement last week. “Decatur pride runs thick through our Town, as many employees are alumni and/or have children who have graduated, will graduate, or currently attend the school – myself included. As a Town, we are working with the school to ensure 2024 is a memorable prom for students at SDHS. An exciting announcement for a new prom location will be coming soon.”

This year, the Stephen Decatur High School prom will be held May 11, from 6-10:30 p.m. at the Roland E. Powell Convention Center.

The prom will not be the only school event held in Ocean City this spring. The Mayor and Council on Monday voted unanimously to approve a consent agenda, which included a private event request to hold the Class of 2024 graduation parade on the Boardwalk. The event returns Wednesday, May 22.

Public safety radio system upgrades slated to advance

By Charlene Sharpe Associate Editor

(April 5, 2024) County officials agreed to move forward with upgrades to the public safety radio system despite concerns.

The Worcester County Commissioners voted this week to move forward with executing contracts with L3Harris Corporation for the replacement of certain components of the radio system as well as changes to improve coverage in the Snow Hill and Newark areas. The vote came after discussion of potentially switching to Motorola.

“I don’t think this is the time to do this,” Commissioner Joe Mitrecic said, adding that he’d be interested in evaluating other providers in the future.

When staff presented proposed contracts with L3Harris in February, the commissioners delayed their decision to give staff time to get information regarding the Motorola radio system, which is currently used by the state. Staff reported this week that they’d gotten a proposal from consultant Federal Engineering to evaluate the proposal from Motorola, but that process would take at least 12 weeks once the proposal was received. Staff also noted that for more than 20 years, the county and the Town of Ocean City had operated on the same system.

Mitrecic was quick to point out that switching providers would divide the county and Ocean City’s system.

Commissioner Caryn Abbott said the current radio system had count-

less problems.

“I think we’re throwing good money after bad,” she said. “There’s no guarantee on their work.”

Commissioner Eric Fiori agreed that state police reported Motorola worked for them impeccably. Mitrecic, however, pointed out that switching to the state’s system would likely cost millions.

“Why are we throwing around numbers?” Fiori said. “Why aren’t we getting proposals?”

Mitrecic maintained that the county should retain its interoperability with the Town of Ocean City.

Abbott said she was worried about taxpayer dollars.

“Bad decisions in the past are still haunting us today,” she said. “Going forward I’m not going to vote for anything that’s going to continue down that road.”

Fiori said some of the commissioners had met with Motorola and asked them to submit a proposal.

“We’re approving somebody’s else’s bid before they turned theirs in,” he said.

He said that going forward, the county needed to take more time to compare apples to apples so decisions were not rushed.

Staff recommended moving forward with L3Harris for now but said that hiring a consultant to develop a request for proposals and to review submissions from a variety of companies would be the thing to do when the current contract was nearing its end.

OC arts council announces juried show winners

(April 5, 2024) The Worcester County Arts Council recently announced winners in the juried art competition, “Reflections.”

Entries are featured in the exhibit at the Arts Council’s Gallery and consist of 25 pieces of artwork submitted by 18 artists with work in all media.

Joanne Guilfoil won first place for her “Danzi at Delmar” acrylic painting. Martha Pileggi placed second for “Oxford Fog,” an oil, and Ellie Scott won third place for her watercolor painting, “Evening Bay Reflections.” Honorable mention awards were presented to Kathy Huegel, Fred Johnson and Jiyeong Yun.

The winning artwork was selected by accomplished local artist and University of Maryland Eastern Shore professor Brad Hudson. Winners were honored at the opening reception held on March 8 at the Arts Council Gallery at 6 Jefferson St. in downtown Berlin.

The exhibit will be on display through April 28. The gallery hours are 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., Tuesday through Sunday. The artwork is available for purchase.

Artists recognized during March opening reception

PHOTO COURTESY WORCESTER COUNTY ARTS COUNCIL Winners of the Worcester County Arts Council’s juried show “Reflections” pose together for a photo at the council’s gallery in Berlin. Pictured, from left, are Clay Reister, WCAC board treasurer; Anna Mullis, WCAC executive director; second place winner Martha Pileggi; first place winner Joanne Guilfoil, third place winner Ellie Scott; honorable mention winners Kathy Huegel and Jiyeong Yun; and Sharon Sorrentino, WCAC administrative assistant.

CHESS WINNERS

Worcester Preparatory School’s Chess Club Tournament winners were recently recognized in front of their classmates and awarded with trophies. Photos were taken on the day the Lower School celebrated 100 days of school, during which faculty and staff dressed as their favorite book characters.

(Right) Third grader Wesley

DeVito poses with Head of Lower School Sara Timmons and the trophy he received for winning in the second through fourth grades bracket. (Far right) Seventh grader Artemiy Klimins poses with Timmons and the trophy he won for placing first in the grades five through eight bracket.

Inspection finds no mold at racquet center

Committee member’s concerns cost community $10,000 to investigate

By Tara Fischer Staff Writer

(April 5, 2024) The Ocean Pines Association Board of Directors late last week revealed that an inspection of the racquet center building showed it was free of mold and mildew, despite assertions to the contrary made by a a Racquet Sports Advisory Committee member.

At a March 23 OPA Board of Directors meeting, RSAC member Suzanne Russell said the center’s building contained mold and had sickened some employees and members.

On March 24, the board and OPA General Manager John Viola decided to close the facility until the charge could be investigated. The courts remained open for players throughout the inspection.

A statement released by the association’s governing body last Friday said an analysis of the property found no evidence of mold or mildew.

“OPA management took immediate action to close and proactively inspect the facility, which involved destructive investigation behind walls and under carpeting, inspection by qualified outside professionals, and testing the air inside the building for ambient mold conditions,” the board’s statement reads.

“… Although a few very small areas of discoloration of indeterminate type were observed on the interior side of a wall, there was no discovery of any confirmed mold or similar condition or other indication that was sufficient to warrant further testing, inspection, or investigation.”

The board pointed to Russell’s claims as the basis for the request for a new racquet sports center building instead of pursuing the previously approved renovations.

The directors also suspect committee may have acted outside its jurisdiction to address members’ alleged health and safety worries.

“We are deeply concerned that, as to matters raised publicly by the RSAC in the March Board meeting, the committee was less than thorough in its own vetting of the pur-

ported mold concerns and may have made public assertions in that regard for purposes other than the performance of the committee’s legitimate role,” the statement said.

At the March 23 meeting, Russell said the committee was presented with plans to double the structure’s size in May 2023.

The group was later told that any upgrades could not extend beyond the facility’s original footprint and improvements had to be made through renovations rather than rebuilding.

Russell continued to argue that the current spot is undersized and cannot meet the players’ needs, especially as membership increases. She reasoned that an entirely new building was the solution to the lack of usable space, as group functions had to be relocated to the community center’s Assateague Room.

Additionally, according to Russell, the golf course building was found to have mold while undergoing renovations in 2015, which forced the association to tear down the entire facility.

She cited this situation as part of her reasoning for requesting a comprehensive health evaluation of the racquet center structure.

OPA Board President Rick Farr noted that the association spent $10,000 in labor, materials, supplies, and services to investigate the concerns.

In an email response to the board and General Manager John Viola, Russell clarified that at the March 23 meeting, she was not speaking on behalf of the advisory committee but rather as a concerned resident.

She maintained that suspected mold was mentioned in the March 2023 RSAC meeting minutes and that players have witnessed staff spray chemicals in the building and pull-out cabinets behind the registra-

tion area, which revealed black discoloration.

Much to the board’s dismay, Russell’s initial statement revealed that the group discussed the viability of a new racquet center building with Worcester County officials. She claimed professionals said that permits for the original expansion project could be easily obtained.

According to the directors, advisory committees are barred from advocating for community groups, lobbying the board, and generating “controversy or disputes between themselves and the board or otherwise as to OPA matters,” which they believe RSAC violated.

The statement continued, “Advisory committees are not permitted to interact with governmental entities on OPA matters without express authorization from the OPA Board.”

“…We are concerned by references in the RSAC’s public statement concerning unauthorized OPA-related interactions with county officials. The Board of Directors will meet soon to discuss appropriate next steps in light of this situation.”

However, Russell countered that a resident called the county to discuss a house project. While on the phone, this citizen asked how Ocean Pines could properly expand the racquet center. She said the caller did not identify themselves as an OPA employee at any point.

“The RSAC committee understands that we are an advisory committee and that the OPA board makes all final decisions,” RSAC Chair Cathryn Noble said.

The racquet center building reopened on Monday, April 1. According to a press release issued by OPA Director of Public Relations and Marketing Josh Davis, players should check in on the left side of the facility. The warming hut will remain closed pending an evaluation.

Event announced to mark ‘Civil Rights on the Shore’

(April 5, 2024) The Beach to Bay Heritage Area will present “Civil Rights on the Shore: An Evening of History and Song with Dr. Clara Small and Dr. John Wesley Wright, Tenor” next month,.

Set 4:30-6:30 p.m., May 8, at the Charles H. Chipman Cultural Center in downtown Salisbury, the night will feature Small and Wright discussing and celebrating the local civil rights movement.

According to a news release, the Charles H. Chipman Cultural Center, built in 1838, is the oldest standing African-American church in the region. Later abandoned as a church, it was purchased by two educators, Professor Charles H. Chipman and his wife Jeanette Chipman. They donated the building for use as a cultural center to honor the history and accomplishments of the black community.

Small, a local historian who has dedicated her life to telling the story

of Black Americans from Delmarva will be presenting the history of civil rights in the area. A professor emeritus at Salisbury University, Small spent 36 years teaching history in courses including world civilizations, civil rights in American society, African American history, and related topics. The release said she is “unarguably the region’s foremost scholar on the history of Black America on the Delmarva Peninsula.”

Wright will be performing a selection of civil rights anthems. He holds degrees from Maryville College and the University of Cincinnati CollegeConservatory of Music, where he earned masters of music and doctorate of musical arts degrees in performance studies. A native of Rome, Georgia, he works as associate professor of music at Salisbury University, coordinating the voice and opera workshop programs.

Refreshments will be provided at the event. Cost of tickets is $35.

THE TOWN OF BERLIN, MARYLAND NOTICE OF A PROPOSED REAL PROPERTY TAX INCREASE

For the taxable year beginning July 1, 2024, the Mayor and Council of the Town of Berlin, Maryland proposes to increase real property tax rates from $0.8275 per $100 of assessment to $0.8375 per $100 of assessment.

The proposed real property tax rate will be introduced at 7 pm on April 8th at Town of Berlin, Town Hall, 10 William Street, Berlin, MD 21811.

A public hearing on the proposed real property tax rate increase will be held at 7 pm on April 22nd at Town of Berlin, Town Hall, 10 William Street, Berlin, MD 21811.

The hearing is open to the public, and public testimony is encouraged.

Persons with questions regarding this hearing may call 410-641-2770 for further information.

Tenor John Wesley Wright will peform civil rights anthems at the event.

SUBMITTED PHOTOS/OC TODAY-DISPATCH

Built in 1838, the Charles H. Chipman Cultural Center will host a program reviewing and celebrating local civil rights efforts.

Clara Small, a local historian and professor of emeritus at Salisbury University will be the featured speaker at the event.

OC museum seeks entries for photo contest

Entries can be submitted throughout summer

(April 5, 2024) The Ocean City Life-Saving Station Museum has opened up submissions for the annual Lou Parsons III Memorial Photo Contest.

The contest honors the life and legacy of dedicated museum board member and photographer Lou Parsons.

It features three of Parsons’ favorite categories: the beach, Boardwalk, and sunset.

The contest is open to all novice and professional photographers (16 and over). Each category winner will be awarded $250, and the grand prize winner will take home $500. Also, last year, a People’s Choice vote was added, which allows friends and family to vote on their favorite photos. The winner of people’s choice will take home a gift basket valued at $100.

The entry period will be from April 1 to Sept. 1.

For more information about the contest, visit gogophotocontest.com/oceancitymuseumsociety.

PHOTOS COURTESY OC LIFE-SAVING STATION MUSEUM (Above)“Morning Silhouette Sunrise,” by Lee Wilkinson, was the 2023 People’s Choice winner of the Ocean City Life-Saving Station Museum’s annual Lou Parsons III Memorial Photo Contest. The picture was taken from West Ocean City looking toward the Ocean City skyline. (Right) Wilkinson is pictured inside the museum with his winning gift basket.

PHOTO COURTESY LEE WILKINSON

A well-timed sunrise and dazzling cloud cover is pictured recently with a moss-covered jetty rock in the foreground with an approaching foam splash.

Organizations donate to Brooke’s Toy Closet

(April 5, 2024) Several regional organizations and donors were recently recognized for donating to TidalHealth Foundation’s Brooke’s Toy Closet this year.

According to a news release, Homes4Hope Therapeutic Solutions in Salisbury, Seaside Smiles in Salis-

bury, Sportland in Ocean City, Westside Intermediate School in Hebron, and an anonymous donor supported the program, which provides new toys to children in the emergency department and pediatric units at Tidal Health. The children get to keep and take home the toys upon discharge.

The program was named in honor of Brooke Mulford, a young girl who was diagnosed with neuroblastoma, an aggressive form of cancer, in 2009 at the age of 4. After a valiant battle, she passed away in June 2017. Brooke had a vision to give toys to kids in the hospital to make their time there a lit-

tle easier. Her vision sparked the creation of Brooke’s Toy Closet.

To learn more about this program and ways to donate, visit tidalhealth.org/toycloset or contact the TidalHealth Foundation at foundation@tidalhealth.org or 410-5437140.

PHOTO COURTESY TIDALHEALTH FOUNDATION

Officials and staff with Homes4Hope Therapeutic Solutions in Salisbury pose with toys they donated to TidalHealth Foundation’s Brooke’s Toy Closet this year.

Wor. Prep students recognized for artwork

(April 5, 2024) Worcester Preparatory School students recently received awards for artwork they entered in the Ocean City-Berlin Optimist Club’s Worcester County High School Art Contest.

In February, the club’s gallery featured the Worcester County High School Art Contest, a juried art competition.

The exhibition featured 28 pieces of student artwork submitted by high school art teachers, including WPS Art Director George Zaiser.

Worcester Prep competed against students from Snow Hill, Pocomoke and Stephen Decatur high schools, and Worcester Technical School, who all could submit up to 10 entries. The competition awarded a total of

$2,000 in cash prizes to the student artists. The selection of artwork was judged by local artist and art club board member Doris Glovier.

The WPS awards are as follows:

Drawing

Second Place – Junior Angeline Todorov – “Pavo Cristatus”

Painting

First Place – Senior Izzy Huber –

“Emersion”

Digital

Third Place – Freshman Mia Jaoude – “Lightning Dragon”

Honorable Mention

Junior Mikayla Towns –“Amanda Seyfried Mamma Mia”

For more information on the Ocean City-Berlin Optimist Club visit ocberlinoptimistclub.org.

PHOTOS COURTESY WORCESTER PREPARATORY SCHOOL

(Left) Worcester Prep freshman Mia Jaoude and senior Izzy Huber pose with art they created that won awards in the Ocean City-Berlin Optimist Club’s Worcester County High School Art Contest. Junior Angeline Todorov is not pictured, but her artwork hangs on the lower right side. (Right) Worcester Prep junior Mikayla Towns proudly stands with her digital artwork, “Amanda Seyfried Mamma Mia,” that won an Honorable Mention award in this year’s contest.

Opinions

Fishing sure ain’t what it used to be

Gone are the days of “Diamond Jim,” a tagged rockfish worth $25,000 to the Chesapeake Bay angler lucky enough to land it as part of the Maryland Fishing Challenge some 20 years ago. That was back when the state promoted a morethe-merrier approach to recreational fishing.

But these days? Caution and conservation rule the reels.

A steep decline in the population of the state’s fish has led the Atlantic States Fisheries Commission to impose strict regulations that, as of May 1, will make catching and keeping a striper more difficult than it has been in decades.

The commission’s research says the rockfish population in the Chesapeake and along the Atlantic seaboard has fallen off dramatically, while recreational fishing pressure and catch totals went in the other direction.

The result is a limit of one fish a day per angler, and a size slot on the ocean side of 28 to 31 inches. On the Chesapeake, the slot is between 19 and 24 inches.

Although the commission’s decisions are often viewed with skepticism by people who either have fun or make a living on the water, the rules are the rules and woe unto the person foolish enough to get caught violating them.

As long-time anglers and commercial harvesters know, however, we’ve been through this before, most notoriously during the all-out ban on catching stripers from 1985 to 1990. That was when the population of spawning-age rock hit bottom.

Obviously, they did make it back, at least until now. The current theory is that these restrictions will allow the stock to rebound once again, hopefully by 2029. Anglers — and diners, as the commercial harvest is being reduced as well — have no choice but to wait and see.

In the meantime, it might be said that one fish in the boat is better than none, but it might also be said that inshore fishing here or in the bay sure ain’t what it used to be.

PUBLIC EYE

Little fish easy to fool

On the other side of this page, there appears an editorial lamenting the harsh new restrictions on catching and keeping rockfish that will ... make no difference to me whatsoever.

By Stewart Dobson

That’s because I don’t catch and keep rockfish, primarily as a result of a decades-old run of bad luck that always seems to send me to schools of fish that are small and stupid.

This is not to say that there’s anything wrong with being small and stupid, given the success of many politicians of lesser stature, but it has occurred to me that big fish don’t get to be big fish if they’re prone to snapping up anything that floats past them.

It’s been my experience that the little ones, which we anglers refer to as “shorts,” tend to ignore the sage advice of their elders.

The grownups will tell them, “If you see and hear a guy topside who’s casting and cursing, casting and cursing, casting and cursing, stay away. Similarly, if you encounter a guy who’s casting and snagging an abandoned grocery cart on the bottom and cursing, also stay away.”

But youngsters being what they are, or because they spent most of the day staring at their flipper phones, they do not pay attention and say, “Hey! What’s that? I’m gonna eat it ... yipe!” as my wiggling rig floats by.

Meanwhile, the behemoths sit patiently down below and wait for junior to return from his flight to the Other Side, so they can remind him or her that real eating-size fish don’t have metal heads or propellers. Junior replies after hearing the advice once again, “Hey! What’s that? I’m gonna ...yipe!”

That’s just the way my luck goes. In fact, according to the Atlantic State’s Fisheries Commission, something like 29.6 million rockfish were caught and released in 2022, and the way I figure it, I was responsible for 29.5 million of them.

The only keeper I ever got out of these waters came from a guy on the Route 50 bridge who hooked a big one on a Ron Popeil Pocket Fisherman or something and couldn’t wind it up to the rail.

As some readers of long-standing might recall, I was in a boat down below and collected this fish from the bridge angler after an extended exchange that went something like, “Hellooooooooooo!”

“Whaaaaaaat?”

“Hellooooooooooo!”

“Whaaaaaaat?”

“Youuuu! Down theeeeeere! Taaaaaaaake fiiiiiiissssh!”

When I finally understood what he was saying, I happily collected a big dumb fish for a change and took it home.

“Hey!” my wife said after I showed her my semi-catch. “What’s that?”

“I’m gonna eat it,” I answered.

Between the Lines

By Steve Green

The big elections on the county level happen every four years. It’s when the Worcester County Commissioners, Sheriff and State’s Attorney posts, as well as the governor and the Senate and House of Delegates seats on the state front, among others, are up for election. However, this year’s election appears to be an exception as three seats will be decided on the Worcester County Board of Education, which has become highly politicized in recent months.

A drive around Ocean Pines these days proves the point as election signs are dotting the landscapes ahead of May’s primary election. It’s a three-person race for the District 5 board seat featuring incumbent Elena McComas and challengers John Huber and Dorothy SheltonLeslie. The May 14 primary will narrow the field as the top two finishers will move on to the November general vote.

School board elections are technically non-partisan, but the claim is humorous in the current political climate surrounding schools. Divisive issues such as book bans, suitable funding levels, mandates from the state’s Blueprint program and disagreements over administrator salaries clearly demonstrate the political nature of the posts today. Some of these topics will surely be discussed at the Worcester County Republican Central Committee’s Board of Education forum for District 5 on April 30 at 6 p.m. at the Ocean Pines Library.

In the end, there is a suitable and happy ending to Stephen Decatur’s Prom location hiccup. Due to some miscommunication – as explained further in this week’s article – the annual junior-senior prom was without a site for a couple months. For as long as anyone can remember, the prom has been held at Ocean City’s convention center. The school pays for the facility – more than $20,000 two years ago and about $14,000 last year due to some changes in the food – and the event is typically held at the end of April. After the communication breakdown, school officials approached the Berlin Mayor and Council (the writer is a council member) with a “Prom on Main” concept.

On the surface, there was excitement about these students having a grand march down Main Street, a road many walked down for Little League and Christmas parades in their younger years. Once again, communication issues resulted in the event being turned down by the council due to business owners’ concerns about the town being closed on a Saturday for the private event as well as logistical and public safety questions associated with 600 teens being fenced in on Main Street for hours. The town was willing to work with the prom folks if a date change could be considered, bu it was reported the April 27 date was firm due to hair appointments and tuxedo rentals.

There appeared to be some flexibility after all, as the date ended up being changed to May 11, a date the convention center could accommodate. This is good news because since the council’s denial in Berlin I have heard from parents and teenagers who worry about an outdoor prom. There were too many unknowns associated with the one thing that can’t be controlled ahead of time – Mother Nature. There was a “cool” factor to the “Prom on Main” concept, but more time was needed to work through the many unknowns, the greatest being what happens if it’s cold and/or raining. Eliminating Mother Nature’s whims is the best bet for everyone.

The lawsuit filed by The Washington Post against the Town of Ocean City about public records is a fascinating situation. There will be a lot of interest across the state in Worcester County Circuit Court Judge Brian Shockley’s ruling due to the connection to the 2021 legislation called Anton’s Law, which at its simplest is aimed at granting additional access to the public when police misconduct is alleged. In a nutshell, Shockley succinctly addressed the matter, saying last week, “The Washington Post has a very absolute position, that any use of force is subject to Anton’s Law but (the defense) argues that it only applies to misconduct.” The key word is “misconduct,” and the lawyers for the newspaper and the city view the term differently. The city’s attorney Bruce Bright put the key part of the case in perspective, saying, “The Washington Post believes every use of force, or review of use of force, should be regarded as misconduct. That deviates from reality for this department.” Eric Feder, the paper’s attorney, said, “In a way, to have public confidence in how the department is handling [use of force], information must be released,” Both sides have sought summary judgment in the case, meaning the judge will rule on the matter without a full trial.

Atlantic Ocean has no say in offshore turbine debate

Editor,

What if the Atlantic Ocean could share its thoughts about the offshore wind turbines? Would it be pleased to have over 100 offshore wind turbines planted in its ocean floor? Could it agree to the height of the turbines which could be over 900 feet? Will it be offended by the pounding needed to secure the turbines? Will the digging into the ocean floor and the planting of cables that will transport electricity miles away be a pleasure for the ocean?

This Atlantic Ocean has served us well. We know how Delaware and Maryland have become successful ocean communities because of this magnificent resource.

So many admire the views of our ocean. Will our ocean no longer hear the excitement of the many people who look for the sunrises, or see uninterrupted views of the blue waters next to the blue of the sky?

We know one thing for sure. The ocean does what the ocean does. It can be so still and serene. It can also be turbulent.

Will the gigantic offshore wind turbines have a safe and secure place when nor’easters and hurricanes happen? Would the ocean ask that these turbines not be placed in its waters? Might the ocean suggest to keep the wind turbines on land where the turbines would be safer and easier to get to for repairs or damages?

Well, so much for the above thoughts. Our Atlantic Ocean has no say. People do. Every person does. What will the decision be from all the people?

Anita Welsch Bishopville

Anonymous letter causes concern for association Editor,

Some of our executive officers and building reps have received an anonymous letter in regard to our commissioners not funding the budget due to our current leadership.

They are accusing us of not speaking out to help rid of our current leadership. As an organization we do not get involved with decisions that need to be made by the school board. We are, however, in favor of fairness. We will not stand for someone trying to bully or make accusations about us. This has left some of those who have received the letter upset and nervous about the situation.

It is not the association’s decision to hire or fire. We’ll fight for better wages and the respect we deserve everyday. Let us as an organization come together and not allow someone to instill fear or pull us apart. Together we win, divided we fall.

Ivory P. Smith Sr. President Worcester County Education Support Professional Association

OBITUARIES

GERARD FRANCIS “ROD” THUMAN Berlin

Gerard Francis “Rod” Thuman, 79, of Berlin, and also of The Villages, Florida, passed away Friday, Dec. 29, 2023, at Atlantic General Hospital.

Born in Baltimore, he was the son of the late Anthony Gerard and Teresa Mary Thuman.

Rod was a 1962 graduate of Mount Saint Joseph College High School, a veteran of the United States Coast Guard, and worked for the Social Security Administration for over 30 years. He was a member of the American Legion Post 166 (Ocean City), the Knights of Columbus Council 9053 (Ocean City), and the OC Gaels.

He coached football at many levels, culminating his coaching career at his beloved alma mater, Mount

Saint Joseph. He enjoyed spending winters at his home in The Villages, Florida.

Rod is survived by his loving wife of 53 years, Barbara (Skarda); son Joseph (Jennifer); daughter Jaime (Michael); granddaughters Kaelyn, Ashlyn, Caroline and Abigail; as well as numerous nieces, nephews and friends.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in Rod’s memory to Mount Saint Joseph High School, 4403 Frederick Road, Baltimore, Md. 21229 or msjnet.edu/giving

A celebration of Rod’s life will be held on Saturday, April 13, at Holy Savior Roman Catholic Church, 1705 Philadelphia Avenue in Ocean City. The family will receive friends at the Continued on Page 82

REFRACTION

DJ TUFF REMEMBERED

Ocean 98.1 announced over the weekend the unexpected passing of long-time team member DJ Tuff who has been a part of the Seacrets family for more than 20 years. The radio station posted on Facebook last weekend the following statement, “The Ocean 98 Family grieves the loss of one of its own. We’ll miss you DJ Tuff. Sincere condolences to his family and friends.”

FILE PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH

PHOTO COURTESY SUSAN WALTER

This ring around the sun, as taken in the Florida Keys recently by Susan Walter of Ocean Pines, is created by the same process that produces rainbows: refraction. In this instance, light from the sun runs into ice crystals, which in turn cause the light waves to bend.

Continued from Page 81

church starting at 11:00 a.m., with Mass beginning at noon.

Visit boundsfuneralhome.com to share stories and memories with the family.

JOSEPH HENRY TRILLING Frankford, Delaware

Joseph Henry Trilling, 85, of Frankford, Delaware, passed away on Thursday, March 14, 2024 at Beebe Medical Center in Lewes, Delaware.

Born in Washington, D.C., he was the son of the late Joseph Paul and Mary Helen “Fischer” Trilling.

Joe is preceded in death by beloved wife, Lucille Corbin Trilling; siblings Jane Ponton, Gayle Trilling, Connie Moore and Jimmy Trilling; and is survived by children Valerie Awad of Orlando, Florida, Laura Williams-Hofacre of Germantown, Scott Trilling of Boyds, and Jeff

Trilling of Bethesda; siblings Robert “Bobby” Trilling, Mary Ann Lansinger, Joan Wooton, Margaret Miller and Diane “Bubba”

Tehaan; 13 grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; and his longtime partner, Millie Weisberg, of Baltimore.

The longtime proprietor of Maggie’s Restaurant in northwest D.C., and manager at Hechinger, he served his communities as an active member of the Georgetown Big Brothers, Lions Club and Knights of Columbus. Joe and Lucille together served the Catholic church and school communities of Our Lady of Victory, St. Martin’s and St. John Neumann, organizing fundraisers and community gatherings and sponsoring sports teams.

Enjoying retirement, “Racetrack Joe,” enjoyed many years singing his favorite songs, such as “Blueberry Hill” and “Irish Eyes” during Harpoon Hanna’s Happy Hour in Fenwick Island, Delaware. His favorite pastimes were betting on horses, fishing, crabbing, and storytelling. He had a cheery disposition for all who would listen and have a beer.

“When Irish eyes are smiling

Sure, ‘tis like a morn’ in Spring

In the lilt of Irish laughter

You can hear the angels sing

When Irish hearts are happy

All the world seems bright and gay

And when Irish eyes are smiling

Sure, they steal your heart away

When Irish hearts are happy

All the world seems bright and gay

And when Irish eyes are smiling

Sure, they steal your heart away”

A memorial service will be held on Monday, April 15, at Bishop-Hastings Funeral Home in Selbyville. DE. The family will receive guests at 1 p.m. with the prayer service to begin at 2 p.m. Guests are invited to join the family for a gathering tentatively planned to occur at Harpoon Hannas immediately following the service.

In lieu of flowers, donations in his memory may be made to the Wounded Warrior Project at woundedwarriorproject.org.

Condolences may be sent by visiting bishophastingsfh.com.

ROBERT MARION BAKER

Berlin

Robert “Bob” Baker, 74, of Berlin, passed away unexpectedly at his home on Saturday, Feb. 24, 2024.

He was the firstborn son of the late Marion Lee Baker and Ann (Disharoon) Baker.

He is survived by his son, Robert Brooks Baker Sr. and wife Andrea, of Berlin. He is also survived by his loving grandchildren, Lily Belle Baker and Robert “Bobby” Brooks Baker Jr. As well as his Aunt Jane Disharoon Bunting; several cousins; and his best friend of 50 years, JC Pruitt.

He was preceded in death by his parents and a brother, Barry D. Baker.

Bob was a Berlin native, graduating from Stephen Decatur High School where he was a high school athlete. He was a graduate of Goldey Beacom College. Bob worked for the Town of Ocean City at Eagles Landing Golf Course for over 30 years, working seasonally over the last 16 years.

Bob continued to enjoy sports throughout his life and kept up with his Orioles, Ravens, NASCAR races and golf tournaments. He spent the past 20 years traveling the East Coast with his granddaughter Lily Belle, attending all of her sporting events and

cheering on her teams. He could be found on the sidelines and in the bleachers ready for a lacrosse or basketball game. “Pop Pop Baker” was a good luck charm and was always wearing his Decatur Blue.

He loved his weekly visits catching up with his grandson Bobby, talking and laughing about their favorite movies, TV shows, commercials and actors.

He was at every birthday party, school event, graduation, holiday celebration and loved being a “Pop Pop” to his grandchildren and their friends. His family was his pride and joy.

Friends and family would always know when Bob Baker had arrived by hearing his distinctive deep booming “Baker” voice. He was a creature of habit and you always knew where to find him on any given day or time. He loved to joke and laugh and will be sorely missed.

A Celebration of Life will take place from 2-5 p.m., Saturday, April 13, at the American Legion Post #123 Boggs-Disharoon in Berlin. All Friends and Family are welcome and encouraged to come.

Arrangements are in the care of The Burbage Funeral Home. Condolences may be shared with the family via burbagefuneralhome.com.

MURIEL DOLORES HINZ Berlin

Muriel Dolores Hinz, 83, of Berlin, passed away Thursday, March 28, 2024.

Born in Hoboken, New Jersey, she was the daughter of the late William Barnhart and Mary (Matilda) Barnhart. She was the beloved wife of Dr. Charles Hinz.

In addition to her husband Charles, she is survived by her son, Charles Hinz Jr. and wife Alexandra; son Ken Hinz and wife Karen; grandchildren Victoria Hinz, Alexandra Hinz, Katie Hinz and Konner Hinz; and sister, Joan Simonson.

She was preceded in death by her daughter, Cheryl McDonald; grandson Kevin McDonald; and brother, William “Billy” Barnhart.

Muriel, known affectionately as “Muri,” grew up in Hoboken with her father, a tugboat captain, her mother, sister, and brother. Her love story with Charles began as classmates at their Hoboken elementary school, evolved into a lifelong romance at 14, and when Charles proposed after enlistment in the Navy, Muri accepted and flew to California to begin her life as a military wife for the next 20 years.

Muriel and Charles raised three children while stationed at bases in the U.S. and Europe. Their time in Spain led to her deep appreciation for European and Mediterranean cul-

Joseph Trilling

Robert Baker

Muriel Hinz

tures and the family traveled widely during their time abroad. In 1974, the family relocated to Pompton Lakes, New Jersey, to be near her family after Charles’ retirement from the Navy. In New Jersey, Muriel worked as an executive secretary for Thomas Electronics of Wayne, New Jersey, for 10 years. Muriel was an enthusiastic Pompton Lakes sports mom, raising children who were highly accomplished in football, basketball, softball, and baseball.

Muriel and Charles retired in 1991 to Ocean Pines, where Muriel discovered a new passion for golf, ultimately rising to win the Ocean Pines Ladies’ Golf Club Championship. Muriel loved living the Ocean Pines lifestyle and was very fond of neighboring Assateague Island, taking many beautiful photos of the Island’s ponies and wildlife, which are displayed throughout her Ocean Pines home. Her friends and family across Hoboken, the Navy, Pompton Lakes, and Ocean Pines will forever remember Muriel for her endless kindness and grace, and as a loving, devoted wife, mother and friend.

A funeral service will be held at 5 p.m., Saturday, April 6, at The Burbage Funeral Home in Berlin. Visitation will be held two hours prior to the service from 3-5 p.m. Condolences may be sent to the family via burbagefuneralhome.com.

In lieu of flowers please consider a donation in Muriel’s name to the Ocean Pines Garden Club, for improvements to Pintail Park. Checks can be mailed to Ocean Pines Garden Club Treasurer Mrs. Brown, 32 Harpoon, Road Ocean Pines MD, 21811.

GAIL MARTIN SCHAFER

Ocean Pines

Gail Martin Schafer, 86, passed away on Sunday, March 24, 2024, in Salisbury.

Born in Warren, Pennsylvania, he was the son of the late Anna Mae (McGrath) Schafer and Alfred Adam Schafer.

Before retiring and relocating to Ocean Pines with his wife, Gail owned and operated the John K. Earekson hardwood flooring company in Baltimore. He was an avid Duke basketball fan, classic Corvette enthusiast and amateur radio operator.

He is survived by his wife, Constance Joan (Byrd) Schafer; a daughter, Stephanie Lynn McClaren (John); two grandchildren, Falynn Lois Jolie Jordan, and Dylan Channing McClaren; and two nieces, Barbara Royce and Susan Roberts.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a sister, Mary

Ann Font.

Cremation followed his death. A memorial service will be held at a later date.

Letters of condolence can be sent to the family via burbagefuneralhome.com. Arrangements are in the care of The Burbage Funeral Home.

BEVERLY MARIE ARMSTRONG

Ocean Pines

Beverly Marie Armstrong, 82, of Ocean Pines, passed away on Friday, March 22, 2024, at her home surrounded by her loving children.

Beverly is survived by her children, Jeff (Beth), Bev “Cissy” (Duane), MarySam (Rob), and Ray.

She will be fondly remembered as “Granny B” to all of her grandchildren, Connor (Julia), T.J. (Malley), Dustin and Rudy. Additionally, she leaves behind five greatgrandchildren, Duane, Wyatt, Ella, Dallas and a baby girl due in May.

Beverly was preceded in death by her parents and brother, Ernie, Daisy Louise and Boyd Woodside.

She will be cherished by her family and loved ones forever.

Arrangements are in the care of Eastern Shore Cremation and Funeral Service at 504 Franklin Ave. in Berlin.

To send condolences to the family, visit easternshorecremation.com.

MICHAEL EDWARD MCCABE

Bishopville

Michael Edward McCabe, 75, of Bishopville, died Thursday, Feb. 1, 2024.

He was born in Salisbury and was the son of the late Clay D. McCabe and Gladys (Bishop) Pecore.

Mike was a computer specialist for Atlantic Computer Tech. He enjoyed his poker club friends and service in the U.S. Navy.

He is survived by a sister, Patti B. Feeheley (Robert Stipe) of Selbyville, Delaware; four stepchildren, Suzanne Overton-O’Hara (Stephanie), Michael Overton, Lisa Larson (Tom) and Tony Overton (Tallie); nephew Mike Bowden; great-niece Kerry Bowden; and great-great-niece, Wren Balme.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a daughter, Dawn Renee McCabe.

A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m., Thursday, April 11, at the Bishop-Hastings Funeral Home at 19 S. Main Street in Selbyville. Friends may call one hour before the service. Condolences may be sent by visiting bishophastingsfh.com.

Gail Schafer

B. Armstrong

Michael McCabe

Sports & Recreation

Decatur baseball cruises to wins in tourney

By Bruce C. Walls Contributing Writer

(April 5, 2024) Last Friday and Saturday (March 29-30) Stephen Decatur High School’s varsity baseball team invited four teams from around the area to a two-day tournament played on the team’s home fields in Berlin.

Coaches, managers and assistants had the chance to watch their teams’ strengths and weakness and to see

players work under game pressure. Stephen Decatur High School, Pallotti High School from Laurel, West Deptford High School of Westville, New Jersey and Easton High School participated.

On Friday, Stephen Decatur blanked the Eagles of West Deptford in the cold wind and won 8-0. This could have been predicted heading into the game as team scoring averages for the Eagles were 3.0 and the Seahawks were 7.8. The Eagles are 0-2 overall while the Seahawks were 5-1 overall going into the non-conference game.

The event’s final game had the host Seahawks facing off against the Laurel Panthers.

“We did really good today, kept the bats going all game, pitching was really good I think we only walked one player the whole game, getting batters out, throwing strikes, letting our defense work,” Seahawks’ Caleb Loring said. “Next game we will be working on staying with the ball and working on getting to the opposite side of the field, getting players on, over and in.”

Loring pitched several innings for Stephen Decatur. He is currently uncommitted to a college team.

The Seahawks got two runs their first half of the inning. Next time up, they extended their lead with another run.

A five-run third inning helped get

them closer to finishing. When one more run was needed, Stephen Decatur scored it. Stephen Decatur earned it, forcing officials to invoke the slaughter rule, 11-0.

“I thought we did a really good job throwing strikes and putting the ball in play,” Seahawks head coach Rich Ferro said. “We made them play defense. We won some moments in the game where the momentum could

have shifted if we didn’t make a play or have a positive bat. We are trying to win certain moments in the game keeping the momentum from shifting to the opponent and that’s the main goal. Try to win moments we can control we can’t control everything; balls are going to hit rocks and get lost in the sun; we need to control what we can control and hopefully we will be successful.”

PHOTO COURTESY SUSAN TAYLOR-WALLS

Stephen Decatur’s Eric Braica slides into second base during the Seahawks’ last game of the Easter Tournament last Saturday against Pallotti.

PHOTO COURTESY SUSAN TAYLOR-WALLS

Stephen Decatur’s Jackson Cheung follows through during the Seahawks’ last game of the Easter Tournament last weekend.

PHOTO COURTESY BECKETT GREEN

Mallards are 0-4 on the young season. (Above left) Freshman attackman Karrigan Russell-Wood fires a shot against the Rams. (Above right) Senior goalie Connor Ferguson was once again a force between the pipes for the Mallards, securing double-digit saves in both losses to Parkside and Bennett.

Support grows for rockfish legal challenge

Lawsuit filed over new regulations proposed by fisheries commission

(April 5, 2024) Support is increasing within Maryland and in surrounding states for a federal lawsuit filed by the Delmarva Fisheries Association and the Maryland Charter Boat Association that challenges new striped bass fishing regulations imposed by the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission.

According to a news release, the Rural Counties Coalition of the Maryland Association of Counties, or MACo, has affirmed its concerns in the lawsuit that challenges the regulations’ narrow catch limits.

The new regulations will, as of May 1, impose on the Chesapeake Bay side a one-fish limit and a slot limit only allowing fish between 19 inches and 24 inches to be kept.

On the coast, the one-fish limit also stands, with a slot limit only allowing fish between 28 inches and 31 inches to be kept.

In addition a 7% reduction in commercial harvest quotas would be established. The commission’s action follows reports of severely declining striped bass populations in the Chesapeake and along the Atlantic seaboard.

A letter to the secretary of Maryland’s Department of Natural Resources signed by MACo’s first vice president/chair of the Rural Counties Coalition and the executive director included the following:

“These regulations will affect local small business models that operate in the charter boat and commercial fishing industries as well. Rural counties along Maryland’s shoreline depend on these industries and oppose these changes, as they will dramatically affect economic development and the livelihood of small

business owners. Many of Maryland’s waterfront businesses will undoubtedly bear financial losses due to the restrictions. For many years, these industries have operated with restrictions in harvesting and strict regulatory compliance yet have remained in operation. The proposed restrictions will be a point that may force good businesses to close and may prohibit other businesses from locating within Maryland’s coastal counties. MACo’s Rural County Coalition respectfully requests that you help safeguard this small business Along with the MACo letter, the boards of commissioners in Dorchester, Queen Anne’s and Kent counties have submitted comparable letters. More are expected.

The East Coast Fishing Coalition is also in full support of associations’ stances in the lawsuit.

The coalition represents over 800 forhire charter and party boats across Connecticut, Rhode Island, Massachusetts, New York, New Jersey and Maryland.

The regional fisheries and charter boat associations are represented by the McCloud Law Group of Chestertown, and Meeks Butera & Israel of Washington, DC.

Lady Mallards grounded of late

(April 5, 2024) Worcester Prep’s girls lacrosse team will be looking to get back on track with the Senior Night game this afternoon against The Salisbury School.

Heading into the recent Easter break, the Mallards have lost three straight games after an opening win over Indian River High School, 10-8, on March 19.

In the opener, senior goalie Caitlin Williams was stout with nine saves.

Leading the offense were seniors Madilyn Nechay and Leah Gaito and junior Emma Zajdel, each with two goals. Also scoring a goal each were Jayden Scopp, Cora McClanahan, Nazli Unal and Anisha Batra.

The Mallards followed the win with three straight losses. In the 12-2 loss to Caravel Academy, on March 22, Williams had 12 saves and Zajdel scored both goals. The Mallards lost

to Parkside later in the week despite a hat trick from Zajdel. Next Worcester suffered a 15-8 loss to Bennett on March 27. Williams had nine saves, while Gaito had three goals and Nechay and Unal each scored twice.

After the Senior Night game, the Mallards have a week off before squaring off with Eastern Shore Independent Athletic Association foe Gunston on April 12.

Looking forward to surf, weather changes

By Dave Dalkiewicz Contributing Writer

(April 5, 2024) March was, shall we say, rather average for our area as far as the surf goes. From knee high to overhead, chopped up and junky, to smooth and clean, it has pretty much run the gamut of size and conditions.

Despite most of Ocean City breaking quite close to the beach there are some areas that are markedly “better” and it pays for the enthused wave rider to try these areas out. It’s the nature of beach break surf because the sand is always prone to movement due to swell direction and intensity as well as tide and wind. One can’t forget that as

surfers, we’re always dealing with the vagaries of nature. Unfortunately, beach replenishment has made these variables even more difficult so the attention of the surfer needs to be even more focused and important.

March was, or at least can be, a month of transition. By this, I mean transitioning from winter to spring though the beach areas lag behind most any inland locale. It can be 60 to 65 degrees in Salisbury or even Berlin and 45 to 50 at the beach.

Fortunately, there were a few days last month with stellar weather. One of these grand days fell on a Saturday, the day before St. Patrick’s Day, just in time for the annual parade. St. Patrick’s Day has, more or less, become the unofficial start of a “shoulder season.” Plenty of people showed

up for the festivities. To me if felt and looked like a weekend in the summer, complete with shorts and t-shirts worn by plenty of attendees. Many years the St. Patrick’s Day parade has been marred by inclement weather. Realistically though, it was a false start because we still have plenty of “not so warm” days and nights to go.

In the last week of March, we were roughly on the fourth day of a nor’easter and the ocean was in a frenzy. Big and stormy, the conditions weren’t too inviting. It’s sometimes referred to as “victory at sea.”

Sure, one could at least try to paddle out and maybe get lucky and ride a wave or two. But it’s more likely that the only benefit would be a heavy work out and a long trudge back up to the initial paddle out, assuming that

the decision was even made to give it a go. Heck, it would even be a feat to dodge or duck dive the heavy close outs! Nah, better to wait for another day and hopefully an offshore wind to clean things up and hopefully this hard northeast wind favorably shifted some sand. By the time this article/column is read that very well could have happened.

So there you have a little reflection on the month of March as we all look forward to some weather pattern changes in April. Keep watch of the weather and the resulting surf conditions. Again, swell size and direction, as well as tide and wind, all play a part in an ever-changing surf scenario.

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