7/19/2024 OC Today-Dispatch

OC Today-Disp a atch

Child abuse plea deal indicts school

A former local high school teacher pleads guilty to a misdemeanor stemming from a sexual relationship he had with a student more than 30 years ago. The parties also accused school administration of playing a part in the underage abuse. — Page 20

13-day trial scheduled for Mailloux next March

With appeals over, the case of Tyler Mailloux, who is accused in the 2022 hitand-run death of 14-yearold Gavin Knupp, will proceed in circuit court with a November motions hearing and trial in March. — Page 16

Henry Hotel gets grant for rehab

As the attempt to restore the historic Ocean City building continues, additional financial help is on the way via a $100,000 Maryland Heritage grant. — Page 13

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Workforce housing project

eyed for Plim Plaza property

Applicant to utilize revised zoning code to request conditional use approval

By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor

(July 19, 2024) It appears the first workforce housing project to take advantage of recent code amendments will soon come before the Ocean City Planning Commission for a conditional use approval.

In an effort to address a shortage of workforce housing in Ocean City, the Mayor and Council last year amended the town’s zoning code to allow for non-accessory workforce housing, or employee living quarters located offsite. With that change, however, came new restrictions based on the size of the workforce housing project.

Simply put, tier one projects are those with 16 or fewer residents, while tier two projects are those with 17 to 60 residents and tier three projects are those with more than 60 residents. The amendment also set restrictions for zoning districts. Employee housing would be prohibited in the MH and R1 districts. In the R-2 and R-2a districts, tier one projects would be permitted, tier two projects would be allowed by conditional use and tier three projects would be prohibited. In the R-3 district, tier one projects would be permitted and tier two and tier three projects would be allowed by conditional use. And in all other districts, tier one and tier two projects would be permitted and tier three projects would be allowed by conditional use.

Since the code amendment was adopted last July, the town had received no applications for workforce housing projects. However, attorney Joe Moore told the commission this

week that his client, Plim Plaza LLC had recently submitted an application to take advantage of the code previsions permitted by conditional use in the B-1 boardwalk commercial zoning district.

“We made an application for the first new tier three employee housing under the code as it’s been revised,” he said.

While the applicant was expected to come before the planning commission Tuesday with a conditional use request, Moore said his client was seeking a postponement of the public hearing. He said the additional time was needed to find a solution to the project’s parking requirement.

“So the code provisions would require us to take away guest parking and dedicate it, deed restrict it, for employees, and we would like to have a discussion because we do have a plan that would take care of those employees, if any, who had an automobile,” he told the commission. “As you know, the Harrison Group has off-site parking, but that is utilized in many respects for our guests. We were concerned that if we went to the formal hearing tonight, put forward our proposal and you all did not agree with it, then we would be denied and we would be prohibited from coming back asking for employee housing for 73 Harrison Group employees … So it’s for that reason we’re asking for the postponement.”

Moore, however, said he would be back before the commission at a future meeting.

“We’ll come back at your convenience, and that of staff, to discuss what our proposals would be and see whether it would accommodate what you all would believe you could do,” he said.

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By Mallory Panuska Ames Digital Editor

(July 19, 2024) Ocean City transportation officials say an issue with downtown parking kiosks wrongfully charging motorists who paid for time has been resolved, however the effects may not fully be over according to several reports of erroneous tickets received the mail.

“The issue with payments not making their way into the back-end system seems to have subsided,” Transit Manager Rob Shearman said last week in an email. “That caused some erroneous street citations to be issued … as well as some Inlet Lot invoices to go out which shouldn’t have.”

He explained that the inlet lot enforcement is completely automated, but on top of the payments, “the first batch of invoices of the season” were delayed and delivered after the appeal window closed.

“Many people reached out via the town’s website’s Contact page, and all such invoices were promptly dismissed by our Parking Manager even though that 30-day period had elapsed,” he said.

And while some inaccurate tickets may still be out there, he believes the issue has been resolved for current and future parking payments.

“We feel like we’ve got both issues under control now – fingers crossed

Motorists still encouraged to contact city with issues

Continued

that these couple of hiccups are over and things go a little more smoothly hereafter,” he said.

According to an email received June 30, an Ellicott City resident had the exact problem when she parked downtown the last weekend of April. She received a ticket in the mail even though she said she paid using the ParkMobile app, and when she attempted to appeal it, the time to do so had lapsed.

Another man emailed July 2 stating he received two tickets in the mail from when when his son was in Ocean City in mid June. He said both included pictures with the exact same adjacent cars on either side, which he deemed impossible, thus concluding that the tickets were likely not legitimate.

Shearman has said that anyone who receives a ticket in error can either contact the number on the citation— 877-626-4657 — or visit parkocmd.com. However if that does not work, he suggested contacting city officials directly using the city’s “General Contact” link at the top of the town’s website — oceancitymd.gov/oc/contact/ — or calling the transportation department at 410-723-2174.

Shearman has explained that the recent transition to new parking data provider Duncan Solutions has produced some communication issues that resulted in citations issued in error. He said he does not know how many tickets were wrongfully sent, and that officials are relying on motorists to let them know when they receive them.

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Site plan approved for downtown property

Multi-family redevelopment eyed for corner parcel along Baltimore Avenue

By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor

(July 19, 2024) Resort planners this week approved a site plan for a multi-family development along Baltimore Avenue.

On Tuesday, the Ocean City Planning Commission voted unanimously to approve the site plan for 801 Baltimore Avenue. Zoning Administrator Kay Gordy said the applicant – Ronsisvalle Properties LLC – has plans to redevelop the lot, which is currently home to a four-unit apartment complex.

“The applicant is requesting this redevelopment site plan proposal,”

she told the commission in her presentation this week. “It is one of our older buildings downtown and I believe they’re doing a good job with it.”

Gordy noted that the building currently onsite was constructed in 1940, and for the last 50 years has operated as a four-unit apartment. She said the site plan proposes four, three-bedroom units – with two units on each of the two floors – and parking underneath.

Gordy added that the site was nonconforming for residential density, as it currently has four units instead of the three now allowed by today’s code. Because of that, the property owner can build back four units. She said the redevelopment also represents an improvement in terms of parking, as the property is proposing

eight spaces instead of the zero that currently exists.

“The good thing about this is that they are providing parking,” she told the commission. “The parking requirement for three-bedroom units is two-and-a-half spaces per unit, and that would mean that they would need 10 but they are providing eight. When you had none onsite, they could actually claim that nonconformity. So they’re actually giving us eight parking spaces, and that is appropriate in the downtown area to do that.”

Gordy explained that four of the eight parking spaces would be tandem, or stacked, parking. She also noted the extensive landscaping and raised deck along Baltimore Avenue, a feature applauded by Ocean City Development Corporation’s down-

town design committee.

“Ultimately the staff recommendation is that we recommend approval of this site plan as presented in accordance with the following zoning and standard conditions, in addition to any items the planning commission may add following their review,” she said.

Commissioner Pam Robertson questioned how the applicant could increase the number of bedrooms from the two that currently exist in each unit to three without increasing nonconformity. Chair Joe Wilson said nonconformity for residential density was not about the number of bedrooms, but about the number of units.

“A unit is a unit is a unit …,” he said. “As long as you can find parking for it, you can have as many bedrooms as you want.”

Gordy added that by including the eight parking spaces onsite, the applicant was reducing the parking nonconformity that currently exists.

“Because they are increasing their bedroom count, they are required to bring in the two parking spaces,” she said.

During his presentation, architect Keith Iott reviewed the project’s parking, patio and residential units. While the building will be raised to accommodate parking spaces underneath, he said the view from Baltimore Avenue would be improved by including extensive landscaping.

“The objective is to soften the effect from Baltimore Avenue,” he said, “so we don’t have cars against the curb.”

After further discussion, the commission voted unanimously to approve the site plan.

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Henry Hotel secures $100K for ongoing restoration work

Beach to Bay Heritage Area

scores $369,550 from Md. in grants for fiscal year

By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor

(July 19, 2024) Nearly $370,000 in grant funding will support several heritage nonprofits in the tri-county area, including the Henry Hotel Foundation and the Museum of Ocean City.

Last Friday, Gov. Wes Moore announced the Maryland Heritage Areas Authority (MHAA) had awarded 87 matching grants totaling $5.19 million to nonprofits, local jurisdictions and heritage tourism organizations throughout the state. Among the recipients are five Worcester-based nonprofits, which will use the funds to support management activities and capital projects for the coming fiscal year.

“Our history is our power,” Moore said in a news release. “By prioritizing heritage tourism, we aren’t just investing in local economies, we are also empowering Marylanders to find their own strength in our collective past. These projects will make Maryland more competitive, support a di-

verse array of new partnerships, and enrich the lives of both visitors and residents alike.”

Of the $5.19 million in grant funding, $369,550 has been awarded to six nonprofits in the Beach to Bay Heritage Area. Recipients include Salisbury University’s Museum of Eastern Shore Culture, which was awarded $35,800 for interpretation and accessibility, and the Berlinbased Beach to Bay Heritage Area, Inc., which was awarded $125,000 for management and block grants.

Other recipients include the Delmarva Discovery Center & Museum, which was awarded $20,000, and Furnace Town Foundation, Inc., which was awarded $38,750. In Ocean City, the Ocean City Museum Society, Inc. will use its $50,000 for exhibit installation at the newly renovated Museum of Ocean City.

“It’s specifically going to be used to fund the fabrication and installment of our interior exhibits at the bank building …,” Curator Christine Okerblom explained. “The exhibits will cover the cultural and natural history of Worcester County, and specifically Ocean City.”

Henry Hotel Foundation, Inc. will

See MUSEUM Page 14

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Museum scores $50K for exhibits

also use its $100,000 to restore the historic downtown building. Earlier this year, the nonprofit received a $250,000 grant from the African American Heritage Preservation Program to begin foundation work at the site.

“The foundation was only the beginning of the exterior improvements,” Board President Nancy Howard said. “Now we have to check to see if the roof is good, the siding, the windows … and that’s going to cost more than $100,000.”

Howard noted that the Henry Hotel Foundation continues to seek community support to fund the restoration of the downtown landmark. She also recognized the Heritage Area for its contribution.

“We are extremely grateful to the Beach to Bay Heritage Area for supporting our request,” she said.

The Heritage Areas Program provides $2.4 billion in annual economic benefit, and MHAA grants generate $319.8 million in state and local taxes while supporting 33,815 full- and part-time jobs annually, the news release states. All 24 jurisdictions have at least part of one state-certified heritage area within their boundaries.

“The Maryland Heritage Areas Program is a deeply important cultural and economic asset to the state,

contributing immeasurably to our collective and individual senses of place, identity, and revealing the stories of all of its people within a broader socio-political context,”

Maryland Department of Planning Secretary Rebecca L. Flora said in the news release. “I am extremely proud of the FY25 Maryland Heritage Areas Program grantees who embody and

celebrate our shared history and heritage by telling the stories of Maryland’s diverse communities in authentic and engaging ways. Their success in doing so creates and preserves a vibrant array of authentic places that people love to visit, which drives cultural tourism, and the sustainable growth of the Maryland economy.”

FILE PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH

The Henry Hotel on South Division Street and Baltimore Avenue in Ocean City is pictured.

Dypsky familiar name within OC fire service

By Steve Price

Contributing Writer

(July 19, 2024) This week we proudly recognize Ocean City Volunteer Fire Company active member and current Captain Greg Dypsky.

Captain Dypsky represents one of the many families that for generations have provided service to the Ocean City community through their commitment to our volunteer fire company.

Greg’s father, Clifford Dypsky, is a Gold Badge Member, former captain and past president of the OCVFC. His mother, Sarah, is a life member of the OCVFC Ladies Auxiliary and his great grandfather, Mr. C.P. Cropper, was one of the early presidents of the OCVFC.

Captain Dypsky retired as a lieutenant

Greg Dypsky

after 31 years of service with the District of Columbia Fire Department.

Greg served as a member of the OCVFC Cadet Program from November 1978 through November 1982. He then joined the OCVFC as an active firefighter in November 1982 stating that he “wanted to follow in the footsteps of his Great Grand-Father and his Father in serving his community through the OCVFC.”

He returned home to serve with the OCVFC in May 2013 prior to his retirement from the District of Columbia Fire Department.

During his 10 years of active service

with the OCVFC, Greg has served in a variety of leadership roles including lieutenant, member of the Board of Directors, and currently serves as vice president and training division coordinator.

Captain Dypsky recalls the most significant event of his Ocean City volunteer firefighting career as responding on the engine from the 74th Street Firehouse (Station #3) to the Sauté Café fire on the morning of July 16, 1983. The fire resulted in the tragic death of Ocean City Volunteer firefighter, Jeffrey Dieter Sr. Dypsky cites his greatest accomplishment in the fire service as “being able to pass on the numerous items I have learned over my years in the fire service to others to help broaden their knowl-

edge of firefighting.”

Given the opportunity to pass on advice to members of the OCVFC Cadet Program or other young men and women with an interest in the fire service, Captain Dypsky replied: “The fire service is always evolving, and new tactics are always being introduced. You are never too young or too old to learn. So do not become complacent in your training.”

We thank Captain Dypsky and his family for their many years of service and their commitment to the safety and well-being of our residents and visitors to our community.

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

March 13-day trial expected in Knupp case

By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor

(July 19, 2024) New hearing and trial dates have been set in the case against Tyler Mailloux following a lengthy appeals process that concluded last month.

During a status hearing Monday in Worcester County Circuit Court, Judge

Brett Wilson, along with legal counsel for both the state and the defense, agreed to schedule a new motions hearing on Nov. 21, followed by a 13-day trial March 3-19. While there was some question of the court exceeding its try-by date — known in legal proceedings as the “Hicks” date or “Hicks” deadline — all agreed there

was good cause to extend beyond it.

“I wouldn’t want to rush you into a trial,” Wilson said.

Monday’s scheduling will essentially reset the criminal case against Mailloux, 23, who faces 17 traffic charges in the death of Gavin Knupp, a 14-year-old who was struck and killed by a motorist in a black

Mercedes while crossing Grays Corner Road on the night of July 11, 2022. Knupp was reportedly returning to a vehicle driven by his older sister and died from injuries sustained in the collision. Mailloux is accused of fleeing the scene and not returning, according to charges filed.

See MOTIONS Page 18

Speedy trial denied for child abuse suspect

By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor

(July 19, 2024) The trial for a Berlin woman facing felony child abuse and other charges will continue as planned despite a request to postpone the proceedings.

During a motions hearing Monday, Worcester County Circuit Court Judge Brett Wilson denied the state’s motion to postpone the trial for Heather Ward, 40, a Berlin woman facing 10 felony counts of child abuse and 80 misdemeanor counts of second-degree assault related to a child abuse investigation at the Berlin Activities Depot.

While the Worcester County State’s Attorney’s Office argued more time was needed to prepare for trial, Ward’s legal counsel said their client was seeking a speedy trial.

“We can try this case tomorrow,” Dennis Murphy, Ward’s attorney, said.

“We can try this case today.”

Last November, the Worcester County Sheriff’s Office and Child Protective Services were notified that an eight-month-old had been admitted to Atlantic General Hospital with a broken tibia. The incident initiated an investigation into the local daycare, where the child attended.

The sheriff’s office alleges video footage of the infant classroom revealed that Ward had caused the child’s injuries and showed other concerning interactions with several other infants under her supervision. As a result of the investigation, a grand jury in March indicted Ward on 90 charges.

Back in court this week, Assistant State’s Attorney Pam Correa said the

case posed a challenge as the alleged victims were nonverbal and immobile. She said the state needed time to work with a medical expert to argue that Ward’s alleged actions caused injury.

“It’s essentially nine cases wrapped up into one,” she said.

Murphy, however, argued that the state was “slow-walking” the case while his client sat in jail. He added that the state had time to prepare.

“There’s nothing about this case that’s even remotely complex,” he said.

After further discussion, Wilson denied a motion to postpone the trial, which will be held next month in circuit court.

“At some point, any investigation has to come to an end,” he said.

Wilson this week also reserved his ruling on the state’s motion to admit several videos as evidence of other crimes and wrongs under Rule 404(b). Correa said

each of the videos, recorded in the months of October and November, involve the listed victims and demonstrated Ward’s treatment of the children.

“These events are alleged to have occurred over a month and a half,” she said.

For his part, Murphy argued the videos, which were shown to the judge Monday, did not meet the standards of Rule 404(b) and did not rise to the level of “other crimes.” He said he was also concerned the videos would confuse any potential jury.

“Many of the videos don’t depict anything at all, objectionably, in terms of dealing with the children,” he said.

Wilson told both the prosecution and defense he would issue an order for each of the presented videos at a future date. He also told the state to submit all discovery by July 28.

Motions hearing planned for Nov.

Continued from Page 16

Since charges were filed in April of 2023, the case has worked its way through the legal system, starting with a motions hearing last August. At that hearing, Wilson granted the defense’s motion to dismiss, opining that the district court had “exclusive and original” jurisdiction. When the circuit court ruling was reversed by the appeals court, Mailloux then petitioned the Supreme Court of Maryland to review the decision.

Last month, the state’s highest court denied that petition, opining “there has been no showing that review by certiorari is desirable and in the public interest.” The ruling upheld the Appellate Court of Maryland’s decision and that all charges against Mailloux would be tried in Worcester County Circuit Court.

Back in circuit court this week, Wilson said a new motions hearing would need to be scheduled, giving Mailloux’s legal counsel another opportunity to present any remaining or new motions not heard before the court last August. The parties also agreed to schedule a 13day trial beginning March 3, 2025.

Heather Ward

Case against former WCPS teacher ends in guilty plea

Prosecution, defense point to adminstration’s handling of reported relationship

By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor

(July 19, 2024) A former Stephen Decatur High School band teacher pleaded guilty this week to a misdemeanor charge stemming from a sexual relationship he had with a student more than three decades ago, but not before the involved parties accused school administration of playing some part in the underage abuse.

In Worcester County Circuit Court this week, Ronald Lee Davis, 64, of Salisbury, pleaded guilty to a misdemeanor violation of the state education law regarding sex offenses that occurred on premise. As part of a plea agreement with the state’s attorney’s office, Davis waived the one-year statute of limitations for the misdemeanor charge and was sentenced to six months, with all but two days – or time already served – suspended.

“Actions have consequences, and he is here today accepting those consequences,” said John Phoebus, Davis’ attorney.

Last fall, law enforcement in

Worcester County received a letter from the Archdiocese of Baltimore’s Office of Child and Youth Protection regarding a woman who told them she had been sexually abused during her time as a student at Stephen Decatur. When reached by local law enforcement, the victim said she wanted to move forward with an investigation. She told police her sexual relationship with Davis during the 1991-1992 school year led to depression and nightmares.

“What Mr. Davis has done has left me with a lifetime of trauma,” she told the court this week.

During Monday’s plea hearing, Assistant State’s Attorney Pam Correa detailed the events that transpired during the victim’s senior year of high school. While acknowledging that the sexual relationship was consensual, she said the victim, who was 16 and 17 years old at the time, knew the relationship was wrong and didn’t know how to stop it.

Correa said the victim had three classes with Davis and that sexual acts occurred in the band room, in Davis’ office and in the instrument room, in addition to Davis’ home. She said the investigation also revealed that other

See SUSPENDED Page 22

Suspects arrested after drug dealing probe

(July 19, 2024) On May 29, members of the Worcester County Sheriff’s Office Criminal Enforcement concluded an eight-month multistate Drug Trafficking Organization investigation that resulted in multiple arrests of people who were reportedly distributing “significant qualities of cocaine” throughout Worcester and Sussex counties.

According to a news release, Jarod Lamon Rhodes, 40; Tyrone Briddell, 56; William Antonio Miller, 41; and Sahmoen Renise Briddell, 37, all of Berlin; and Tavon Chavez Biles, 42, of Rehobeth, Delaware, have been in-

dicted and charged with various offenses in relation to the possession, distribution and import of large amounts of a controlled dangerous substance.

The release said investigators seized about 1.7 kilograms of cocaine during the sting with street value of nearly $150,000, a “large quantity” of cash, various other assets, and “other evidence of the distribution of illegal drugs.”

The investigation is ongoing and more arrests are expected, according to the release.

Anyone with information can contact the Worcester County Sheriff’s Office. The Worcester County Sheriff’s Office also has an app https://apps.myocv.com/share/a875 21863 that can be downloaded for free on IOS and Android where residents can submit tips to law enforcement anonymously.

Investigators and officers from the

Worcester County State’s Attorney’s Office, U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, Homeland Security Investigations, Maryland State Police, Ocean City Police Department, Delaware State Police, Eastern Shore Information Center, WashingtonBaltimore High-Intensity Drug Trafficking Area all helped the Worcester County Sheriff’s Office with the investigation.

The operation was also supported by the Maryland Criminal Intelligence Network. The Governor’s Office of Crime Prevention and Policy supplies grants and strategic assistance to network member sites. The resources enable the identification, disruption, and dismantling of criminal organizations through enhanced inter-agency collaboration and data sharing, the release said.

Suspended sentence reached

Continued from Page 20

students and parents had suspected Davis of having an inappropriate relationship with the victim.

Correa said a parent who had witnessed the victim lean her head against Davis’ shoulder during a band trip that year shared the incident with Lou Taylor, who was vice principal at the time. Taylor, who now serves as the school system superintendent, told investigators last fall that Davis had approached him in the spring of

1992 to confess to the sexual relationship. Taylor then shared the information with the school principal, who then reported it to the school superintendent at the time.

Davis resigned that year and went to work for Somerset County Public Schools in 1993. He continued to teach there up until last fall, when district administration, having learned of the criminal investigation, placed him on administrative leave.

Phoebus told the court this week his client had admitted the sexual relationship to school leadership and had moved on to another school district, where he remained for threeplus decades. He said since the case was reported in the media, no other students have come forward with allegations against Davis.

“That suggests to me this was a one-time lapse in judgment,” he told the judge.

Both the prosecution and defense said the agreement presented to the court this week was the favored outcome, as it guaranteed a conviction and avoided revictimization. Correa added that the plea exposed school administration for failing to report the relationship to authorities.

“That’s the crux of this case,” she said.

Both parties also shared information Davis provided to prosecutors during a proffer session. In that meeting, Davis told prosecutors that the administration did not visit his

Jarod Rhodes Tyrone Briddell William Miller Sahmoen Briddell

Judge executes plea deal; issues three-year probation

classroom or supervise his instruction, even after the suspected relationship was brought to Taylor. Davis also told the prosecution that Taylor had tried to convince him not to tender his resignation.

“My client described a culture at Stephen Decatur High School that was quite different a year later when he went to work for Somerset County Public Schools,” Phoebus said.

Correa added that the state had subpoenaed the school system for Davis’ personnel records, which she said failed to mention the sexual relationship or the reason for his resignation. Both sides also reported that Worcester County Public Schools had offered him a job in 2015, despite knowing the circumstances of his leaving. The victim also alleged that administrators prioritized protecting their colleague over her own safety.

“I need everyone to know that Worcester County Public Schools suspected the abuse to be happening and did nothing,” she said.

When reached this week, Worcester County Public Schools declined to comment, but specifically addressed remarks made about Davis’ job offering in 2015.

“The school system will not comment on this matter other than to correct the record that as evidenced by the Board’s personnel actions in 2015, Davis was never recommended to the Board for hiring,” said Carrie Sterrs, the school system’s coordinator of public relations and special programs.

At the conclusion of Monday’s hearing, Judge Brett Wilson accepted the plea agreement, which was brought before the court for the second time in just as many months. In June, Judge Beau Oglesby dismissed the case, arguing Davis could not plead guilty to the misdemeanor charge, which was not listed in the charging document. Since then, the case has been refiled to reflect the misdemeanor charge, and the plea agreement was executed this week.

Wilson also issued a $1,000 fine, plus court fees, and placed Davis under three years of supervised probation, during which time he cannot contact the victim or have any unsupervised contact with unrelated female minors. Phoebus said his client will not return to teaching.

“I take full responsibility for my actions and the pain that came with those actions,” Davis said in his apology to the victim this week.

onic mas J. Mar Thomas

FUNDA

HAPPINESS

County will create cannabis fund

By Steve Green Executive Editor

(July 18, 2024) Following no speakers during a required public hearing, the Worcester County Commissioners agreed this week to create a special revenue fund to collect dollars sent to the county by the state from cannabis sales.

On Tuesday, the commissioners reviewed a bill to create a Reinvestment and Repair Special Revenue Fund. In a memo to the commissioners, Deputy Chief Administrative Officer Candace Savage detailed the special revenue fund connected to cannabis. She wrote, “The Maryland Community Reinvestment and Repair Fund receives money from onetime cannabis license conversion fees and 35% of cannabis sales and use tax. Maryland counties receiving

Open Daily at 3pm

cannabis funding under the Community Reinvestment and Repair Fund are required to adopt a law establishing the purpose for which money received from the Fund may be used. Funds are distributed to counties proportionately based on the total cannabis possession charges within each jurisdiction between July 1, 2002, and January 1, 2023.”

According to Savage’s memo, Worcester will receive 1.22% of the total funds with the first distribution of conversion fees and the sales tax for the 2023 calendar year amounting to $369,473.

A public hearing was held on Tuesday as part of the bill introduction with no attendees making comments.

Commissioner Caryn Abbott asked county attorney Roscoe Leslie if there were for specifics on where the fund-

ing would go.

“We tried to make it as a broad as possible and this is enabling legislation …,” Leslie said. “The decisions on how to spend the money will likely be done through the budget process so it will come before you for approval.”

According to the bill’s language, “revenue paid into the Fund must be used for: funding community-based initiatives intended to benefit low-income community, community-based initiatives that serve disproportionately impact areas … any related administrative expenses.” Revenue can not be used for law enforcement, per the bill.

Commissioner Diana Purnell made a motion to approve with a second by Commissioner Eric Fiori. The motion carried in an unanimous vote.

School supply drive announced

(July 19, 2024) Worcester County GOLD (Giving Other Lives Dignity), a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, has been running its School Supplies for Students program since 1997, providing backpacks filled with grade-appropriate supplies to Worcester County students in need.

Each year, GOLD receives 300-plus student school supply requests from the caseworkers employed with its 13 partnering agencies who work directly with families in need in Worcester County.

GOLD officials believe every child deserves to fit in with their peers by starting the school year prepared to succeed,

regardless of their family's financial situation. Community members are encouraged to help by shopping for a student or donating. Even a small donation can go a long way.

Those interested in shopping for a student, donating, or learning more about the program should visit WorcesterGOLD.org. Shoppers must sign up by Aug. 14 and supply donations are due by Aug. 20.

GOLD is a nonprofit improving the quality of life for county residents living in low-income circumstances by providing emergency financial assistance and items to meet basic needs.

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STUDENT SCHOLARSHIPS AWARDED

The Marlin Club Crew of OC recently present $21,000 in scholarship awards to 15 senior graduates from Worcester County high schools at a celebration brunch at the Marlin Club. Nine $1,000 scholarships and six $2,000 Marlin Club Franky Pettolina Memorial Scholarships were awarded at the event. Standing, from left, are crew scholarship recipients Jackson Vit, Hayden Dinger-Tedder, Briggs Pugner, Anthony Hulslander, Daniel Karcheuski, and Ethan Justice. Seated, from left, are the memorial scholarship winners with Franky Pettolina’s mother in the center: Claire Windrow, Josh Blume, Dakotah Trader, Maddie Pettolina, Madison Brinker, Emily Manning and Ella Gaddis. Not pictured are Logan Hurney, Molly Rose and Wesley Simmons.

By Tara Fischer Staff Writer

(July 19, 2024) The Berlin Planning Commission heard concept plans, once again, for the proposed Microtel Inn and Suites by Wyndham on Wednesday, July 10, when the group showed dissatisfaction with the developer’s apparent lack of attention to Berlin’s historic character in the outlined architecture. As a result, the commission took no formal action.

Developers approached the Berlin Planning Commission in March with a plan to build a four-story, 78-unit Microtel Inn and Suites on the east side of Route 113 near Franklin Avenue. Since then, three members of the commission and the builders have discussed how to ensure the hotel matches the town’s aesthetics and remains safe.

The planning commission heard the amended concept plans last week, as they told developers at a previous meeting that they wanted to see architecture more aligned with downtown Berlin’s historic charm. Since those discussions, brick at the facility’s entrance, an enclosure for the pool, cornices, Victorian-style lights, and mature trees were added to the outline.

The developers maintained the plans have adequate room for emergency access, vehicles, and trash trucks and that the arrangements for storm water and landscaping are the same. They said the bulk of the changes come from an architectural perspective.

Still, members of the planning group were unhappy with the proposed building’s overall “box” appearance.

“Looking at the current plan, it doesn’t work to me,” Commissioner Pete Cosby said. “The colors, the architecture, it just doesn’t work … We talked about getting Victorian streetlamps; you have three, but not throughout the project. It is just incoherent.”

Mark Cropper, attorney for applicant Thomas Zambetis, argued that creating a site plan with zero architectural guidelines is difficult. Berlin has no commercial design guidelines for developers to follow.

However, Cosby maintained the town does have a code that requires developers to “enhance the town’s historic architectural character and uniqueness.”

The hotel, the commissioner said, fails to accomplish this task.

“There is no way this building does anything for the uniqueness of Berlin,” he said. “This is a corporate building.”

Cosby referenced the Microtel in West Ocean City, noting that the structure is “conducive to the area”

RENDERING BY MODES ARCHITECTURE

After a concept plan review, members of the Berlin Planning Commission told a prospective hotel developer the design does not fit with Berlin. “You have to look at what is in Berlin and come up with something acceptable to this commission,” Commissioner Pete Cosby said.

Attorney cautions commission on

lack of direction

and that the proposed Berlin facility is a “far cry from the architecture of Berlin.”

Cropper said that the commission is trying to get them to meet regulations that do not exist. “I am trying to get specifics to meet the target,” he said. “Either you can do that, or you can’t.”

The commissioners maintained that they want a hotel in Berlin. However, they struggled to approve a “computer box.” Despite the changes, the group argued that they could not see Berlin’s charm in the proposed plans.

Cropper recalled when the county, “back in the Walmart days,” would deny site plans because they were unhappy with the look of the buildings. He said they realized this was unreasonable unless they adopted architectural guidelines. The applicant’s representative urged the Town of Berlin to do the same.

“We all understand what you are trying to achieve. The problem is the manner in which you are trying to achieve it,” Cropper said. “At some point, if a developer does A, B, C & D, a developer is entitled to site plan approval. The problem is you have a developer in front of you trying to truly hit a nonexistent target. It’s clear from tonight you are not going to tell this developer what needs to be done for site plan approval. I just want you to understand the position this is putting my client in and quite frankly the authority of this planning commission. You have authority per the Berlin code … we are trying to be responsive and cooperative but it’s a two-way street. … we are told to return with something different but there’s no guidance or details to go by. We are trying to get there but this is a hard arena to work in when there’s nothing to work through.”

As the discussion continued, the commissioners proposed moving the location of the pool and adding additional parking spaces between the hotel and the highway. The group also recommended more mature trees along the road and tall-growing vegetation. They said they would be more likely to approve the facility if it was not visible to drivers.

“You have to look at what is in Berlin and come up with something acceptable to this commission,” Cosby said.

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Local towns, OCDC get grants

(July 19, 2024) Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development Secretary Jake Day recently announced that the department has awarded more than $3.4 million from three state programs to assist small businesses and support local revitalization projects and activities on the Eastern Shore.

According to a news release, grants from the Business Boost Microgrant Program, the Main Street Improvement program, and Project Restore 2.0 will provide funds to a total of 28 businesses, local governments, and place-based economic development organizations across the state.

Among the awardees were the Town of Berlin, the Ocean City Development Corporation, the City of Pocomoke and the Town of Snow Hill in Worcester County.

The Town of Berlin was among 14 towns to receive a Main Street Improvement Grant to help achieve community revitalization goals.

“We are incredibly grateful to the Department of Housing and Community Development and the Maryland Main Street Program for awarding us a $25,000 Main Street Improvement Grant,” Ivy Wells, the town’s director of economic and community development, said in the release. “This funding is instrumental in supporting our district's local businesses."

The Ocean City Development Corporation also received a $25,000 grant from the Main Street program, while the City of Pocomoke and Town of Snow Hill received $10,000 each as Main Street affiliates.

OCDC was awarded $300,000 through the department’s Project Restore 2.0 program as well. According to the release, the program is designed “to activate vacant buildings, support small businesses, and increase local economic activity by providing financial support to improve the vitality of Maryland’s commercial corridors.”

“These funds will be used to renovate the property located at 102 Worcester Street in Downtown Ocean City MD,” OCDC Executive Director Zach Bankert said in the release. “We are excited to be able to breathe new life into this building and bring it into compliance with our Downtown Design Standards.”

Pocomoke also received a $154,975 grant from the Project Restore 2.0 program to help some women-owned businesses downtown.

“These funds will help bring two downtown commercial properties back to life that have been sitting vacant for over 20 years,” City of Pocomoke Events and Downtown Coordinator Karah Burton Lacey said in the release.

The Town of Snow Hill also received a $178,111 grant from the program.

Resident of Berlin publishes children’s book

(July 19, 2024) Berlin resident FranceAnna Arriola recently finished and released her first book, “Finnley’s Starlight Adventures,” through Pittsburgh-based publisher RoseDog Books.

According to a news release, the children’s book is about friendship, fantasy, and reality. Finnley makes friends who don’t need to have a certain look or characteristic for him to call them a friend. They are all colors, shapes, and sizes. He looks at their heart rather than their appearance.

Finnley’s best dream friend is Blue. When he wakes up and sees Blue, he realizes that Blue is not real but that he can keep him alive in his imagination. Blue accompanies Finnley into all his future adventures.

The release said Arriola lives in Berlin with her husband and three dogs. She speaks French, Spanish and English, which has helped her in her adventures around the world. She went on a medical mission to Peru and traveled extensively through Europe and Mexico. She has strong ties to France where her mother and all her mother’s relatives were born.

Arriola graduated with a degree in education and has taught in high schools, elementary schools, and

preschools. She owned her own childcare business for 27 years.

After the sale of her business, Arriola has devoted more of her time to her hobbies and interests, which include painting (she has sold many of her oil paintings), guitar, and piano. She presently teaches CPR

and first aid along with preschool music and Spanish. She is also a French tutor.

This book is one of the first of many Arriola plans to write. Her interest in writing children’s books comes from her two granddaughters and the preschool children she teaches.

“Finnley’s Starlight Adventures” is a 34-page hardcover with a retail price of $34 (eBook $29). To buy the book, visit RoseDog Books’ online bookstore at rosedogbookstore.com/finnleysstarlight-adventures/.

Ocean Games returns to resort for 11th edition

By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor

(July 19, 2024) A swim event will take place this weekend following a recent vote of the Ocean City Council.

Last week, the council voted unanimously to approve a special event request from Ocean Games and Swim OC. The vote will allow for an openwater swimming event to take place in Ocean City this Saturday, July 20.

“They are requesting council approval for this special event and the associated city resources,” City Manager Terry McGean told the council last Tuesday’s meeting.

Ocean Games debuted off the beaches of Ocean City in 2013. That first year, more than 160 swimmers raised $22,000 for Johns Hopkins Brain and Stroke Rehabilitation Program. Since then, the event has gone on to raise over $120,000 for the hospital and other local charities.

This year, the swim event will take place in the open water off Ocean City on July 20, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. McGean told the council last week the event would consist of a nine-mile and three-mile solo swim, as well as a multi-person, nine-mile relay. He noted that the three-mile swim would span from 146th Street to 94th Street, while the nine-mile swim would space from 146th Street to Caroline Street.

“The organizer, Mr. Davis, is requesting the following support from the town – vehicle access to the beach, four parking spaces at North Division Street, three spaces at Caroline Street, eight spaces at the end of 145th Street, placement of an inflatable arch at the finish line, and placement of two portalets at the end of 146th Street,” he said. “Beach patrol will assist with safety.”

When asked if the event had occurred without incident in prior years, McGean said it had. Council Secretary Tony DeLuca then made a motion to approve the Swim OC event as presented. The motion passed in a 7-0 vote.

Ocean Games’ Swim Ocean City is held each year to raise awareness and support for traumatic brain injuries, according to its website. The event is the brainchild of founder and director Corey Davis, a local who received treatment from the Johns Hopkins program following a serious motorcycle accident in June of 2006.

“A few years later, Corey was not only back on his own two feet, but also completing triathlons and long-distance open-water swims such as the 4.4 miles The Great Chesapeake Bay Swim and the 7.5 miles Potomac River Swim,” the website reads. “To give back to the Johns Hopkins program that helped him return to his previously active lifestyle, Corey conceived the idea of an open water swim challenge in his native Ocean City ...”

County requests restaurant loan forgiveness

By Steve Green Executive Editor

(July 19, 2024) The county is seeking forgiveness of a state loan provided for a Pocomoke restaurant 16 years ago.

On Sept. 1, 2008, Worcester County received a $525,000 Community Development Block Program grant from the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD). About $500,000 was for the construction of the restaurant originally opened in 2012 as the Riverside Grille. Since the spring of 2019, the restaurant is now under new management as Dockside. About $25,000 of the grant was to be used for general administration. On Feb. 1, 2012, an amendment to the grant added $98,000 for the purchase of kitchen equipment.

In a letter to DHCD Office of Community Development Programs Direc-

tor Cindy Stone, Worcester County Commission President Chip Bertino detailed an aspect of the grant that has become impossible for any of the three restaurant operators to successfully meet.

“Each restaurateur has struggled with meeting the CDBG National Objective of benefiting low- and moderateincome persons through job creation. The grant calls for 35 full-time permanent jobs with 18 going to low to moderate income employees. After years of inability to meet the national objective, a consensus is that the national objective numbers submitted with the grant application were inadvertently inflated,” Bertino wrote. “Despite the attempts of three different operators, the restaurant has been unable to meet the grant’s employment goals over the past 12 years. The highest employee num-

bers since the grant agreement was executed occurred during the first 6 months of the restaurant opening in 2012. Since that time period, there has been a decline in the number of jobs created. It is anticipated that those numbers will not be attainable by any lessee at this property.”

Bertino added, “In addition to the fact that none of the officials who initially applied for the CDBG funding are involved at this point, the County has struggled with obtaining job creation forms from each of the lessees and has had difficulty gathering the data needed for the semi-annual reporting to CDBG. Furthermore, the $98,000 in kitchen equipment is past its useful life after 12 years and has had numerous repairs.”

County Administrative Officer Weston Young reiterated to the commissioners the grant terms are impossible

to meet and the request for forgiveness is supported by Pocomoke. He said getting forgiving the grant would allow county staff to focus on other aspects rather than meeting the grant’s paperwork monitoring requirements.

“We are trying to get out of this agreement. The restaurant owners are not able to meet the terms of the grant and will not be able to …” Young said.

With no further discussion, Commissioner Ted Elder motioned to approve the forgiveness request with a second by Commissioner Jim Bunting. The matter passed unanimously.

After the vote was taken, Bertino pointed out during a recent walking tour of Pocomoke DHCD Secretary Jake Day was informed the request would be forthcoming.

“Mr. Day was open to working with us …,” Bertino said.

County broadband projects get boost with funding plan

By Steve Green Executive Editor

(July 19, 2024) An update was provided this week on the ongoing plan to meet the high-speed internet needs of all county residents.

While pitching a proposal to use $1 million in county funds, Worcester County Information Technology Director Brian Jones told the County Commissioners significant progress has been made on the county’s goal of having all homes with the ability to utilize high-speed internet. He said initial examination years ago found there 6,400 homes in the county without the ability to use high-speed internet for computers and television streaming services.

“We are knocking those numbers down low as we go but we expect after today to have about 1,400 to 1,600 homes without internet services,” Jones said.

Jones came before the commissioners for approval of a staff supported plan to spend $1 million officials approved on March 17.

“What I would like to ask permission to do is a 50/50 grant between our two providers, Choptank and Talkie, and we have come up with a plan to piggyback with services they already have. What I mean by that is areas they are already in that it would help them expand and also help the citizens as well … these are not areas tied to any other grant today,” said Jones. “We want to make sure whatever services we provide are not part of any grant that’s out there today.”

According to Jones, the county has only spent $96,000 to date. The rest of the funding has come through grant funding as well as state and federal sources. Included in the proposal outlined for the commissioners was $500,000 to Choptank to cover 13 miles of fiber and hit 80 homes. Talkie would like to cover 19 miles of fiber and 98 homes at an estimated cost of $596,969. Jones said the providers understand the county’s allocation will not exceed $500,000 so Talkie understand it’s responsible for covering the planned overage amount.

The proposed split of the funding was approved by a 7-0 vote after a motion by Commissioner Ted Elder and a second by Commissioner Caryn Abbott.

Commission President Chip Bertino spotlighted the success of the county’s efforts without having to spend the overwhelming amount of funding initially reported as the overall expense.

“Five years ago, this county government said we would put up to $50 million to get this county connected,” Bertino recalled. “You just said we have just spent $96,000. The aggres-

siveness of this grant solicitation has gone a long way.”

Along those lines, Jones said during his presentation the county recently secured a $1.2 million grant to keep the broadband effort moving through the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development’s Difficult to Serve Properties Grant Program.

County Commissioner Joe Mitrecic asked Jones and his colleagues to consider having the two primary service providers in for an in-person update in the near future.

“I voted for this because everyone deserves it, but you are talking about $36,000 a mile to run the cable. That’s our cost, not including the state’s portion. That’s about $650 per household and that’s our costs … a lot of money being slung out there,” Mitrecic said. “They seem to operate out there and we haven’t seen them other than asking for money. I would really like to hear an update from Talkie and Choptank on this, where they are going. I would like to hear what their final outcome would be and when they think it’s going to end.

Bertino agreed and asked staff to schedule an update as available.

Taylor Bank For Good Fund gives $15K to area charities

(July 19, 2024) The Taylor Bank For Good Fund held at the Community Foundation of the Eastern Shore recently announced its initial grant recipients, totaling $15,000 among six local nonprofits.

The new grant program is funded by Taylor Bank’s For Good Checking Account program, in which Taylor Bank makes a contribution toward area nonprofit grants for every debit card transaction made.

“We are thrilled to partner with our customers and these impactful organizations to enhance and strengthen our communities in Delaware, Maryland, and Virginia,” Lori Simon, Taylor Bank vice president and giving committee chair, said in a news release. “An important part of our mission at Taylor Bank is to prosper our communities through the financial services we offer. The For Good

Checking account and For Good Grant program are another way we fulfill that.”

Taylor Bank’s grantmaking is focused on supporting low-income communities with an emphasis on neighborhood development, workforce development and education, and basic human services.

“Taylor Bank’s innovative approach to charitable giving demonstrates how businesses can use their expertise to give back to the regions they serve,” Erica Joseph, CFES president, said in the release. “By partnering with local businesses, the Community Foundation is able to help companies plan and operate their community philanthropy programs through full-circle partnerships.”

The recipients of the For Good Fund grants are:

WGP Warriors Against Addiction — supports members of the recovery community and their families throughout Worcester County ($2,500)

Worcester County GOLD — devoted to improving the quality of life for Worcester County residents living in low-income circumstances by providing emergency financial assistance and items to meet basic needs ($2,500)

Accomack-Northampton Pregnancy Center — supports new and expectant parents through pregnancy and parenting classes with a focus on the importance of nutrition and money management ($2,500)

Children’s Harbor — helps children in preschool and after school programs develop socially and cognitively by maintaining childcare during a family crisis ($2,500)

Contractors for a Cause — supports community members and veterans in need by constructing aluminum ramps for homes, enhancing accessibility for disabled individuals ($4,000)

South Coastal Village Volunteers — provides support, services and social interaction to elderly residents in Bethany Beach, Millville, Ocean View and South Bethany, Delaware, to help them maintain their independence and enhance their quality of life ($1,000)

To learn more about the For Good Fund, visit TaylorBank.com/forgood.

PHOTO COURTESY TAYLOR BANK

Taylor Bank staff members recently presented grants to local and regional nonprofit agencies. Bank staff members pictured are Andrea Adams, SVP, chief retail banking officer; Lori Simon, vice president, staff development/training coordinator, CRA officer; Ray Thompson, president and CEO; Lee Chisholm, VP, loan and business development officer; Tina Kolarik, EVP, chief operating officer; Sherry Tarr, VP, regional manager, relationship officer; and Tori Grundman, AVP, marketing director.

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Rip current knowledge key for all swimmers in ocean

By Kristin Joson Contributing Writer

(July 19, 2024) If you spend any time at the beach and listen to local television or radio at this time of the year, you will hear about the dangers of rip currents. Although they are often mistakenly referred to as “rip tides”, they are in fact, a current.

A current is simply a volume of water moving from one location to another. In contrast, tides are caused by the gravitational pull of the moon and sun and occur about every six hours. What makes a rip current dangerous is that it moves water away from

beach and out to sea, where north or south currents (littoral current) just move water along the beach. As water flows away from the beach, anything or anyone in that water will also be pulled steadily away from shore. Someone standing in waistdeep water can be swept out to greater depths in seconds due to a rip current.

This action not only accounts for how unsuspecting bathers and people that never intended to go out further than their waist, are pulled into water that is over their heads. It also is responsible for creating the telltale signs that identify a rip current to the trained eye. As waves break and stir up the sandy bottom and create foam this discolored water and foam are carried away from the shore clearly marking the location of a rip current.

While the mechanics of a rip current are easily understood, they remain the greatest surf zone hazard for anyone enjoying water activities at any beach (80% worldwide) and account for over 95% of all water related rescues in Ocean City and are responsible for most ocean drownings. Rip currents are such a wellknown natural hazard that the National Weather Service has identified them as the third leading cause of weather-related death, although in the past few years they have moved into second place. Unfortunately, last year there were more rip current related drowning deaths than in any recent years in the US.

To understand how to escape a rip current it is important to understand what causes rip currents. Rip currents occur when water that comes into the beach by wave action and wind needs to make its way back out. Because a sand bar runs the length of Ocean City (a barrier island), water that has come over the sand bar needs to make its way back out. Because wave action continues to bring water over the sandbar, the water has difficulty going out against the incoming flow. Water will take the path of least resistance and find a lower spot along the sandbar to become the natural path for the flow of the water. As more water comes across the sandbar the volume in the trough (water trapped

Swim parallel to shore if in rip

between the beach and sandbar) increases and this additional volume of water causes an increasingly greater volume of water to flow through this path. As water flows along this path, it will move sand and creates a deep underwater channel from the shoreline through the sandbar. As waves break near the beach, they cause a change in bathometry (the contour of the ocean bottom), which causes a constant change in the sandbar and thus rip current locations and severity are constantly changing. You may believe that only non-swimmers drown because of rip currents while many rip current drowning victims had moderate to good swimming ability. This brings up the question, why would a person who knows how to swim, drown? The answer is simple. Panic, fatigue, and lack of ocean awareness all contribute to the outcome. A rip current is very much like a treadmill. As water is flowing away from the beach, a swimmer attempting to swim straight in will make little or no progress against this outgoing current. By nature, a typical rip current is not very wide usually 20 yards at most which means that a person who is being pulled out can be out of the rip after a few swimming strokes. Also, once the rip current flows through the cut in the sandbar the pull disperses and the current no longer continues to pull you away from shore. With these facts in mind if you find your-

self being pulled away from shore, do not panic simply swim parallel to shore and once you no longer feel the pull of the rip, swim back into shore. To help escape the “grip” of the RIP swim with the littoral current (north or south), so before you go swimming take time to study the water and know which direction you would want to swim out of the RIP. If you feel you are unable to swim across the rip relax, let it take you out to the sandbar and then swim back to shore. Whatever you do, never abandon a flotation device, and always signal the lifeguard if you want their assistance. In most cases they will already be on their way to assist you back to safety. Even our lifeguards will not attempt to swim straight in against a rip current. They use their knowledge of the ocean to swim parallel to the beach until they are out of the rip current and then make their way back into safety with a victim in tow holding onto the buoy that the SRT has handed them as a flotation device to keep them above water. If you can remember the word RIP then you can remember what to do to save your life — Relax and do not panic, I need help (wave your arm) and swim Parallel to return to safety. For additional information about rip currents and other water safety topics visit our webpage ococean.com/ocbp and follow the safety button or click to ripcurrents.noaa.gov.

Things I Like...

By Steve Green

A day with highs in the 80s

Giving nicknames to people

Being home by 10:30 from a Freeman show

Cheering on my boys

Fitz and the Tantrums in concert

Sensible criticism

A quick summer downpour

Waving to friends in Berlin

A bunch of small plate dishes for dinner

How my Pop Pop called it going ‘outdoors’

The field of sunflowers on Assateague Road

vanishing vanishing OCEAN CITY

WITH BUNK MANN

Roses Department Store, an Ocean City staple for over 40 years, closed on May 11, 2024, leaving memories for both locals and summer visitors. The place to find whatever one needed at a reasonable price, it was often a “must stop” to pick up anything that folks had forgotten to pack for their trip to the beach.

Opening in 1983 at the former Ocean Plaza Mall (94th to 99th Streets on Coastal Highway), Roses was the last remaining section of the once vibrant collection of shops and food courts that served the needs of north Ocean City. Umbrellas and beach chairs, toys and T-shirts, household supplies and even dog food – you could always find it at Roses.

Many recall visiting with their parents in the 1980s and then taking their own kids and grandkids there 30 years later. Roses Department Store… another page in the saga of Vanishing Ocean City.

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

Prayer service held in Ocean Pines to foster overall unity

By Tara Fischer Staff Writer

(July 19, 2024) The Worcester County Veterans Memorial Foundation and Sen. Mary Beth Carozza (R38) hosted an interfaith “Prayer Service for Our Country” on Monday, July 15, to foster unity following the attempted assignation attempt of former United States President Donald Trump.

On Saturday, July 13, Trump was speaking at a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, when a 20-year-old male opened fire. The former president narrowly missed the bullet. One spectator was killed, while two others were critically injured.

The Monday night event occurred at the Worcester County Veterans Memorial in Ocean Pines. Carozza said that she received a text message from OPA resident Marcy Prezioso proposing a prayer service, and the gathering was efficiently planned in collaboration with the memorial’s foundation.

“I thought it was an outstanding idea and a perfect event to unify at the local level as Americans,” she said.

President of the memorial, Marie Gilmore, underscored the necessity of the service.

“As the horrifying events of Saturday night were unfolding, I could not help but despair over how our country had changed,” she said. “In big cities and small towns, violence is replacing civilians. This country needs to return to the Judeo-Christian values it was formed.”

“It is time to tamp down the rhetoric and find a way to resolve our differences peacefully,” she continued. “It is a time for prayer. It is by the grace of God that a past president, a past commander in chief, is alive today … prayer is powerful.”

Leaders from various religious centers in the area were in attendance. Reverend Dale Brown of Community Church at Ocean Pines prompted attendees to join hands as he led the crowd in prayer.

“Help us to see each other not as enemies but as brothers and sisters and friends,” he said. “Help us be willing to make the first move to step across the line to say, ‘I want to get to know you better. How can we work together?’ Help us as a nation care for those most vulnerable… Help us to love in a way that…welcomes everyone, particularly the stranger. Help us always to love our enemies. In doing

‘Time to tamp down ... rhetoric’

so, we show the best of who we are.”

Pastor Peggy Briggs from St. Paul’s United Methodist Church and Father Lance Martin from St. Mary Star of the Sea Holy Savior Catholic Church were also present, where they preached unity and looked past the political differences of our neighbors. The Delmarva Chorus sang God Bless America to round out the event.

Carozza said that in preparation for the Monday night service, she recalled the book Patriotic Grace by Wall Street Journal columnist Peggy Noonan. The senator said the book is

integral in reaffirming that Americans must face everyday challenges together.

“The book asks key questions like, ‘Can we continue as a sovereign nation as peace with itself?’” Carozza said. “After 9/11, we came together as a country and united as Americans. As time passed, we have lost that depth of unity. Still, Saturday’s attempted assassination attempt of a former president and the killing of an innocent bystander … is an opportunity to approach our political discourse in a new way.”

TARA FISCHER/OC TODAY-DISPATCH

Attendees to Monday’s prayer service are pictured taking in the messages offered by spiritual and elected leaders.

by Steve Green

PThe Adventures of Fatherhood

arenting teens brings out the best and worst of me.

In some ways, I feel like I am going through puberty all over again with my son, Beckett, who turned 16 in May. He’s a great kid with a huge heart. His positives far outweigh his negatives, but there are moments when he upsets me and his mom by the way he treats us or approaches things.

I am a patient person but there are times when my teenager gets my blood boiling, and I lose my cool and raise my voice. There have been some passionate conversations that could be construed as screaming matches. These sorts of confrontations are the worst, and I have come to realize it’s bad for him and us.

Scrolling through social media recently, I came across a story on the Raising Teens Today website headlined, “6 Eye-Opening Reasons Why You should Stop Yelling At Your Teen.” It was a good read with a few takeaways to remind me to take a deep breath, walk away and chill before raising my voice. A few highlights are shared here:

#1 Yelling is More About You Than Your Teen:It’s ultimately up to you to decide how you respond to your child. As difficult as it might be at times, we have to set an example. Our kids are taking in everything we say and do. If we yell, so will they. If we toss out inconsiderate, nasty remarks, so will they. If we insult them, they will retaliate in some way.

#2 It Conditions Your Teen to Ignore You UNTIL You Yell: Heads up, parents… it isn’t your yelling that’s prompting your teen to finally listen, it’s the fact that you’ve conditioned them to ignore you UNTIL you reach the boiling point and yell.

#3 It Fuels Anxiety, Low-Self Esteem, and Depression: Nothing can shake a teen’s confidence more than being yelled at continuously by the parents they’re counting on to love them unconditionally.

#4 It Creates a Pattern That Breaks

Down Your Relationship: The fact is, yelling can become a nasty habit — a habit that can slowly break dwn the foundation of your relationship with your teen. Chances are, they totally shut down when you yell or start yelling back to defend themselves – neither of which is healthy, productive, or drawing your teen closer to you – it’s pushing them away.

#5 It Makes You Look Out of Control: If the goal is to change their child’s behavior or develop a positive habit in their child, yelling is not the way to do that.” There are other strategies that don’t involve screaming like a maniac.

#6 Harsh Verbal Discipline Mirrors the Negative Affect of Physical Discipline: Most parents wouldn’t dream of punishing their teens physically. Yet, a study conducted by Ming-Te Wang, assistant professor of psychology in education at the University of Pittsburg’s School of Education, found that a parent’s use of verbal discipline – defined as shouting, cursing, or insulting their teen – may be just as detrimental to their teen’s longterm well-being as physical discipline.

… When you do yell, just remember, it’s not the end of the world. You’re human. Changing crummy habits can be tough, but with a little self-reflection and self-control, you can establish a calmer, more respectful dialogue with your teen.

t says, “stubbornly local” on our front page, but a quick digression this week into the hero named Corey Comperatore who lost his life defending his family at a Trump event last Saturday. A letter from his daughter, Allyson Comperatore, hit everyone hard this week. I wanted to share it here.

“Yesterday time stopped. And when it started again my family and I started living a real-life nightmare.

What was supposed to be an exciting day that we had all looked forward to (ESPECIALLY my dad), turned into the most traumatizing experiences someone could imagine.

I know the media will cover this event.

And I'm going to try my best to stay away from looking at everything, especially because I've already seen and lived through it in real time. But I want everyone to know what the media will not cover, and will not say about him.

He was the best dad a girl could ever ask for. My sister and I never needed for anything. You call, he would answer, and he would do whatever it is you needed, and if he didn't know how he would figure out how. He could talk and make friends with anyone, which he was doing all day yesterday and loved every minute of it. He was a man of God, loved Jesus fiercely, and also looked after our church and our members as family.

The media will not tell you that he died a real-life super hero. They are not going to tell you how quickly he threw my mom and I to the ground. They are not going to tell you that he shielded my body from the bullet that came at us.

He loved his family. He truly loved us enough to take a real bullet for us. And I want nothing more than to cry on him and tell him thank you. I want nothing more than to wake up and for this to not be reality for me and my family.

We lost a selfless, loving, husband, father, brother, uncle, son, and friend. And I will never stop thinking about him and mourning over him until the day that I die too. July 13th will forever be a day the changed my life. I will never be the same person I was less than 24 hours ago.

There are a lot of children out there that say their dad is their hero, but my dad really is mine. I don't think I would be here today without him.

Dad, I love you so much that there aren't enough words to express how deep that love goes. I know you'll give heaven some hell. I know that God is proud of the man that came to His gates yesterday.”

(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.)

County approves Flower Street speed limit drop

By Steve Green Executive Editor

(July 19, 2024) The speed limit on Flower Street in Berlin will now be 25 mph on the entire road.

In a public meeting packet memorandum, Worcester County Public Works Director Dallas Baker requested approval to drop the speed limit on a county-owned portion of Flower Street west of Stephen Decatur Middle School from 30 to 25 mph. There is a short stretch of Flower Street the county owns with Berlin owning and operating the rest.

At a Berlin meeting last week, the council voted unanimously to lower the speed limit from Seahawk Road to the county line to 25 mph. The town’s portion of Flower Street leading to Bay Street is already 25 mph.

The commissioners voted unanimously on Tuesday to approve the change.

On behalf of the town, Berlin Mayor Zack Tyndall wrote in support of the move.

“Based on data obtained through the recent study and implementation process of speed cameras along Flower Street, the Town of Berlin has found it necessary to lower the speed limit to 25 mph within the town limits,” Tyndall wrote. “The Mayor and Council made this decision to enhance safety for our residents and visitors. However, it has come to our attention that the portion of Flower Street within Worcester County’s jurisdiction remains at 30 mph. For the sake of consistency and the continued safety of all who travel along Flower Street, we kindly request that the speed limit on the County-maintained portion also be reduced to 25 mph.”

Big Brothers Big Sisters org. looking for mentors locally

(July 19, 2024) In an effort to support the positive development of young people in the local community, Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Eastern Shore is calling on caring individuals to step up and become mentors for children in need.

As a leading nonprofit, Big Brothers Big Sisters has been making an impact on the lives of children and teenagers in the Eastern Shore by fostering meaningful, enduring relationships between mentors and mentees. Currently the organization serves Kent, Queen Annes, Talbot, Caroline, Dorchester, Wicomico, Somerset and Worchester counties.

“Having a mentor can make a world of difference in a young person’s life. Our mentors provide support, encouragement, and a positive role model for children who may not have these resources otherwise,” Katie Douglas, the program lead for the organization, said in a news release. “By becoming a Big Brother or Big Sister, you can help shape the future of a child and con-

tribute to building a stronger, more resilient community.”

The nonprofit is at a critical time where the demand for mentors far exceeds the current supply, and the need for positive adult role models in the lives of local youths has never been greater.

With a long-standing commitment to providing mentorship opportunities for children facing adversity, Big Brothers Big Sisters is facing a pressing need for volunteers to serve as mentors and support young individuals in the community. The impact of mentorship extends, far beyond the individual relationship, positively influencing academic achievement, self-esteem, and overall well-being, which mentors can achieve by volunteering a couple times a month for a few hours.

To become a mentor or learn how to support the programs offered by Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Eastern Shore, visit shorebiglittle.org, email info@shorebiglittle.org, or call 410-5432447.

Who’s Where When

BLU CRAB HOUSE COURTYARD

410-289-3322

24th Street & Coastal Hwy.

Fri., July 19: Rockoholics

Sat., July 20: Margot & Valerie

Sun., July 21: Aaron Howell

Wed., July 24: Cup Of Joe

BUXY’S SALTY DOG & DRY DOCK 28

410-289-BUXY

28th Street Coastal Hwy.

Fri., July 19: Jack & T

Every Sun. Locals Party w/ DJ Deogee

CAPTAIN’S TABLE

410-289-7192

15th & Boardwalk

In The Courtyard Marriott Fridays & Saturdays: Phil Perdue on Piano

CARRIBBEAN POOL BAR

410-289-6181

In The Plim Plaza Hotel

109 N. Atlantic Ave.

Fri., July 19: Upside Of Down & Royalo Flush Band

Sat., July 20:

Naked Nation & Runner Ups

Sun., July 21:

No Byscutts & Going Coastal

Mon., July 22:

Dave Sherman & Ryan Jackson

Tues., July 23: John Remy & True Country

Wed., July 24: Steve O’Boyle & Jason Lee

Thurs., July 25: Lost Figures & Schizophrenic Boogiemen

COCONUTS BEACH BAR

410-289-6846

Oceanfront At Castle

In The Sand Hotel

37th & 38th Streets

Fri., July 19:

Darin Engh & Lime Green Band

Sat., July 20: Secondhand Reggae Duo & Royal Flush

Sun., July 21:

Margot & Valerie & Full Circle

Mon., July 22: Sean Loomis & Fil Rhythm Duo

Tues., July 23:

The Jamn Brothers & Bell Bottom Blues

Wed., July 24: Coastal Cats & Rick & Regina

Thurs., July 25: Heather Vidal & Beach Bandits

COINS PUB

410-289-3100

28th Street Plaza

On Coastal Hwy.

Fri., July 19: Beach Bandits

Sat., July 20:

Jim Long & The Rockoholics

Thurs.: DJ Giddy Up & John Schwartz

Every Sun.: DJ Wax

CRABCAKE FACTORY

BAYSIDE

302-988-5000

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

Sun., July 21: Uncle Ward

Wed., July 24: Jack Bannon

CRAWL STREET TAVERN

443-373-2756

Wicomico St., Downtown O.C.

Fri., July 19: Black Dog Alley

Sat., July 20: Rogue Citizens

FAGER’S ISLAND

410-524-5500

60th St., In The Bay

Fri., July 19:

Making Waves, DJ RobCee & Jumper

Sat., July 20: The Texas Chainsaw Horns, DJ Stinson & Jumper

Best Beats On The Beach

JACK & T LUTZ

Buxy s Salty Dog: Friday, July 19

MARGOT & VALERIE

Blu Crabhouse Courtyard: Saturday, July 20

Coconuts Beach Bar: Sunday, July 21

HEDRUSH

Pickles Pub: Saturday, July 20

BLACK DOG ALLEY

Crawl Street Tavern: Friday, July 19

SCHIZOPHRENIC BOOGIEMEN

Carribbean Pool Bar: Thursday, July 25

BEACH BANDITS

Coins Pub: Friday, July 19

Coconuts Beach Bar: Thursday, July 25

MERCURY AGENDA

Harborside: Saturday, July 20

MARIACHI REY AZTECA

Cantina Los Agave: Thursday, July 25

Purple Moose: Thursday, July 25

Who’s Where When

Sun., July 21:

DJ Mary Jane & The 1974

Mon., July 22:

The 1974, DJ N9NE & Cecilia’s Fall

Tues., July 23:

Bryan Clark & DJ RobCee Latin Night

Wed., July 24: DJ Wax & DJ Hector

Thurs., July 25: DJ Groove & Big Machine

GREENE TURTLE WEST

410-213-1500

Route 611, West OC Sat., July 20: TBA

HARBORSIDE

410-213-1846

South Harbor Rd., West End O.C.

Fri., July 19: DJ Billy T Sat., July 20:

Mercury Agenda & DJ Bigler Sun., July 21: Bob Wilkinson & Wayne Blake

Wednesdays: DJ Billy T

Thursdays: Dust N Bones Duo

PICKLES PUB

410-289-4891

8th St. & Philadelphia Ave.

Fridays: Beats By DeoGee

Saturday, July 20: Hedrush

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

Fri. & Sat., July 19 & 20: Surreal Sun. & Mon., July 21 & 22: Starlight Anthem

Thurs, July 25: Will Sims Band

SEACRETS

410-524-4900

49th St. & Coastal Hwy.

Fri., July 19: Full Circle, DJ E-State, DJ Davie, DJ Ernesto, DJ Bobby O, The Burnsiders & Turning The Tide

Sat., July 20: DJ Cruz, DJ Connair, DJ Bobby O, DJ Mary Jane, DJ Ernesto, DJ Flight, Turning The Tide, The Burnsiders, Cellar Sessions & Garden State Radio

Sun., July 21: Triple Rail Turn, DJ Mary Jane, DJ Davie, DJ Flight, DJ E-State, New Direction & Red Dirt Revolution Mon., July 22: Blake Haley, DJ Christauff, DJ Mary Jane, DJ Wax & The Way Outs

Tues., July 23: DJ Wax, Opposite Directions, DJ C-Miller, DJ Flight & Kono Nation

Wed., July 24: DJ E-State, Full Circle Duo, DJ Cruz, DJ Mary Jane, Stealing Savanah & Joe Samba (Ticket Event)

Thurs., July 25: John McNutt Duo, DJ Cruz, DJ Connair, Go Go Gadget, DJ Mary Jane & I&I Riddim Reggae

THE WEDGE

410-289-5121

806 S. Atlantic Ave.

Fri., July 19: Joe Esham & True Country

Sat., July 20: Rymac

Sun., July 21: Jason Lee

Mon., July 22: Steve Bowers

Tues., July 23: Troy Mawyer

Wed., July 24: John Phesant

Thurs., July 18: Kasey Briggs

VISTA ROOFTOP

410-390-7905

13801 Coastal Hwy.

Friday, July 19: Steve Kuhn

WILL SIMS BAND

Smashed black bean burgers a tasty option

By Deborah Lee Walker Contributing Writer

(July 19, 2024) History is the epitome of the future and influences our actions, thoughts, and even culinary delights.

With that thought in mind, let us take a brief look at the iconic sandwich called a burger.

In 1904, a reporter for the New York Tribune described a new sandwich being served at the World’s Fair in St. Louis, Missouri as “the innovation of a food vendor on the pike.”

The pike was a mile long section of the fair featuring rides, attractions, and delicious food. The old expression, “coming down the pike,” origi-

nated at the fair and implied you never knew what one would see next.

The vendor was believed to be Fletch Davis who owned a lunch counter in Athens, Texas. Supposedly, he cooked raw ground beef on a flat grill and fried it until crispy on both sides. The meat was placed between two slices of toast and a thick slice of raw onion. This belief is up for debate. But one thing is for sure, burgers were introduced at the fair and have become an American classic.

That being said, does a burger have to be made of meat? Veggie burgers have earned their right on the pages of gastronomic history, and are a yummy alternative to the popular protein.

A veggie burger doesn’t mean you have to skip out on flavor, but achieving

this can be tricky. Following are some tips for a delectable veggie burger.

Most veggie burgers contain a high percentage of beans. Black, cannellini, and chickpeas are common choices. But beans tend to have a dense mushy texture, rather than a meaty texture, and they make the flavor of the veggie patty excessively “beany” which is not good for a tasty bite.

Vegetables, seasonings, herbs, cheese, and vegetable stock can boost the burger to a much more appealing

CROSSWORD

sandwich by way of flavor and texture. Mushrooms add great savory zest and meatiness to the patty. Carrots are colorful and boost the consistency of the sandwich. Beets add a visual component to the burger with its bright red hue that mimics the look of a meat-based burger.

Seasonings are very important for veggie burgers. The addition of chili powder, smoked paprika, and chopped chipotle in adobo sauce are tasty options for a layer of smokiness.

Continued on Page 59

ARIES – Mar 21/Apr 20

Secrets that have been troubling you may come to a head this week, Aries. Try not to let your emotions get the best of you right now; otherwise, relationships could be damaged.

TAURUS – Apr 21/May 21

Taurus, your mind is all shaken up right now, so it should come as no surprise that you are distracted. The days ahead should see things settle down and you’ll be able to refocus.

GEMINI – May 22/Jun 21

This week is likely to be fairly quiet for you, Gemini. You may have to drum up your own excitement. Start looking at event calendars or live music venues for a distraction.

CANCER – Jun 22/Jul 22

Cancer, use this week to think about your professional future. Many ideas are coming together and you just have to pick the route you would like to travel at this point.

LEO – Jul 23/Aug 23

There is little time for daydreaming right now, Leo. Things will come at you at a fast and furious pace and you might have to scramble to keep up. Keep your wits about you.

VIRGO – Aug 24/Sept 22

Virgo, you may feel like you are being hit with many obstacles from all directions. You might need to give yourself more time to devote to all of the tasks you take on. Ask for help if you need it.

LIBRA – Sept 23/Oct 23

Do not expect people to follow you blindly, Libra. You will have to give them reason to follow you and come around to your way of thinking.

SCORPIO – Oct 24/Nov 22

Scorpio, with so much going on around you, and after juggling various projects, concentrating can be very challenging. However, you must get your head in the game or risk mistakes.

SAGITTARIUS – Nov 23/Dec 21

Life isn’t a spectator sport, Sagittarius. To really feel you are experiencing all you can right now, you must get right in the middle of the action. Friends can lead the way.

CAPRICORN – Dec 22/Jan 20

The path you are supposed to take is finally coming into focus, Capricorn. Your excitement will only increase as you start making plans for the future. Share your joy with others.

AQUARIUS – Jan 21/Feb 18

You don’t need to completely reinvent yourself to make a change, Aquarius. Even small modification can make a big impact in the long run. Start gradually and build up.

PISCES – Feb 19/Mar 20

Even though there is a challenging prospect on the horizon, you have all of the information you need to start navigating this new stage in your life, Pisces.

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.

■ CABANAS BEACH BAR & GRILLE

Located in the Plim Plaza Hotel, 109 N Atlantic Ave., 2nd Street & the boardwalk, Ocean City, 410524-1776, www.cabanasoc.com

$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar

Open to the public. A full-service restaurant serves breakfast, lunch and dinner inside and Signature smash burgers, fresh cut fries, handhelds, signature salads, and much more. Indoor and outdoor bar. Fresh squeezed crushes, frozen drinks, tropical libations. Dine in or carry out. Open 7 days a week starting with breakfast 8-11 a.m. The kitchen is open until 10 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and at least 10:30 p.m. on Friday and Saturday. The bar is open 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and at least midnight Friday and Saturday.

■ CAPTAIN’S TABLE

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

$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar

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

■ COINS PUB & RESTAURANT

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

$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar

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

■ CORAL REEF RESTAURANT & BAR

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

$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar

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

■ CRAWL STREET

19 Wicomico St., Ocean City, 443-373-2756, crawlstreet.com

Established in 2020 just a short walk from the legendary Cork Bar. Don’t leave without trying the famous wings, but everything on the menu is solid, including flatbreads, tacos, salads, sandwiches and seafood platters. Be sure to check out the live music offerings as the nightlife is top of the line.

■ DISTRICT 24

BLU CRABHOUSE & RAW BAR, JAY’S CAFÉ & ICE CREAM, THE EMBERS

2305 Philadelphia Ave., Ocean City, 410-289-3322, district24oc.com

Come visit all your culinary options at this block of fun, including the landmark Embers Restaurant with a new, innovative vision as well as Blu where fresh seafood is king. Be sure to stop in Jay’s for a tasty treat as well as an ocean of caffeinated offerings. There’s fun activities for kids of all ages here as well with a miniature golf course and an arcade.

■ FISH TALES

2107 Herring Way, Ocean City, 410-289-0990, ocfishtales.com

Bayfront marina dining offered here with a huge menu to satisfy guests of all ages. Enjoy a drink from a hanging chair or fish tacos at your table while the kids play in a playground build in the sand. Food and drink menus offer enough of a variety to meet all needs.

■ HARBOR WATCH

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

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

Celebrating our 40th anniversary with fresh seafood,

an award-winning raw bar, mouthwatering steaks and the best view of the Ocean City Inlet and Assateague Island. Open everyday 11:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. Call for banquet and large-party details.

■ PICKLES PUB

706 Philadelphia Ave., Ocean City, 410-289-4891, picklesoc.com

$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar

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

■ PIT & PUB

2706 Philadelphia Ave. and 12701 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, pitandpub.com

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

■ THE WEDGE BAR

806 S. Atlantic Ave, Ocean City, www.thewedgeoc.com

$-$$ | Full bar

Panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean, bay and Assateague Island. Enjoy small plates, sandwiches and grilled burgers. Happy Hour, Sunday through Thursday, 3-6 p.m. Open Sunday through Thursday, 11:30 a.m. to 10 p.m.

MIDTOWN

29th to 90th streets

■ 32 PALM

32nd Street in The Hilton, Ocean City 410-2892525, 32palm.com

$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar

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

■ THE BONFIRE

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

Celebrating 50 years as the best seafood and prime rib buffet in Ocean City. It’s all here – the service, the atmosphere and finest, freshest seafood available and quality meats. Save room for the decadent desserts available as well including homemade donuts.

■ COCONUTS BEACH BAR & GRILL

3701 Atlantic Ave., Ocean City, 410-289-6846, castleinthesand.com

A tropical open-air patio steps from the beach. A unique place for lunch or dinner with a menu featuring all the customary items and a few Ocean Citybased surprises. Guests can also enjoy beach service for lunch and cocktails. Be sure to check out the daily entertainment schedule.

■ FAGERS ISLAND

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

$$ | Full bar

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

■ HOOKED

8003 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, 410-723-4665, hookedoc.com

$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar

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

■ LONGBOARD’S CAFÉ

6701 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, 443-664-5693, longboardcafe.com

$$-$$$ | Full bar

Casual Dining … Refined. Open for lunch and dinner. A wide range of gourmet burgers, innovative tacos, salads and sandwiches to full dinner entrees featuring fresh local fish prepared in a variety of styles, beef, shellfish and pasta. All our sauces, salsas, dressings, etc. are meticulously house made. We use fresh local sources wherever possible and pre-

mium ingredients such as our chuck, brisket and short rib custom blended burgers. Closed Tuesday. Call for reservations.

■ MARLIN MOON RESTAURANT

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

$$ | Full bar

Winner of the Maryland People's choice award, Marlin Moon continues to offer its famous, locally loved dishes and famous happy hour. Enjoy creatively crafted cocktails, fresh selections from the raw bar and luscious desserts. Happy Hour, every day, 3-6 p.m., featuring drink specials. Breakfast, 7:30-11:30 a.m.; Lite Fare, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.; Dinner, 4-10 p.m.; and Bar open noon to 11 p.m.

■ SEACRETS

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

$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar

Open Sunday through Friday at 11 a.m., 10 a.m. on Saturdays, close at 2 a.m. Enjoy a tropical atmosphere and dine under the palms in our outdoor, kid friendly dining area or try a Seacrets Beachin' Cocktails in the Bay with live music every day open to close. The club is open every night in the summer. Try our famous jerk chicken with homemade honey mustard sauce, Pushcart Trio, a true Jamaican dish or a hearty wrap, sandwich or delicious burger. We have it all at Seacrets.

■ ALBERTINO'S BRICK OVEN & EATERY

13117 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, 410-2502000, albertinosoc.com

$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar

Featuring the best brick oven pizza, always handmade with fresh ingredients, Italian-American mouthwatering seafood specialties, traditional Italian pasta dishes, apps, soups and salads. Full bar with large local craft beer selection.

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

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. Nightly Ice Shows starting June 24.

■ 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.

■ TAILCHASERS RESTAURANT & DOCK BAR

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

$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar

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

■ VISTA ROOFTOP RESTAURANT

13801 Coastal Highway, located in the Fenwick Inn, Ocean City, 410-390-7905, vistarooftopoc.com

$$-$$$ | Full bar

Enjoy a wonderful meal overlooking the ocean and bay. Some of the most unique views in Ocean City. Steaks, seafood, burgers, soups, salads and lite fare. Happy hour, 3-6 p.m. New this year is a boozy brunch Saturdays and Sundays, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Live music.

FENWICK ISLAND

■ CRABCAKE FACTORY BAYSIDE

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

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

■ DIRTY HARRY’S

100 Coastal Highway, Fenwick Island, DE, 302-5393020, Beach-net.com/dirtyharrys

$ | Kids’ Menu | Full bar

Don’t let the name fool you, the food is home cook-

ing at its finest. Owned and operated by Ginny Swann and family for 19 years. Popular for the breakfast but getting rave reviews for lunch and dinner, too.

■ NANTUCKETS

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

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

■ TWINING’S LOBSTER SHANTY Rte. 54, Fenwick Island, Del., 302-436-2305, twiningshanty.com

Reservations | Kids’ Menu “A funky little place at the edge of town.” Classic New England fare, lobsters, steaks and burgers. Bird watching and magical sunsets await. Open for lunch and dinner. Reservations are suggested.

OCEAN PINES

■ CLUBHOUSE BAR AND GRILLE

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

$$ | Full bar

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

■ OCEAN PINES YACHT CLUB

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

$$-$$$ | Full bar

The Ocean Pines Yacht Club offers casual coastal cuisine for lunch and dinner in a beautiful bayfront setting. Fresh seafood, signature drinks, live music and more. 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 410390-3914, cantinalosagaves.com

$$ | Kid’s menu | Full bar

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

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

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

■ GREENE TURTLE WEST Route 611, West Ocean City, 410-213-1500

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

■ HARBORSIDE BAR & GRILL

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

$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar

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

■ OC DINER

12744 Ocean Gateway, Rt 50 east, West Ocean City, 410-390-5112

Kids’ Menu

Best homemade breakfast and lunch. Local’s favorite breakfast served all day. Dine-in and carry-out.

Open 7 a.m. to 3 p.m.

■ SHRIMP BOAT

9724 Stephen Decatur Hwy., West Ocean City, 410-213-0448, shrimpboatoc.com

Since 1989, a spot for locals and visitors to enjoy fresh local seafood straight off the boats. Dine-in seating also available. It’s all sourced local and fresh and a free shrimp sample available.

FOOD FOR THOUGHT

No matter what veggies or legumes one chooses, it is important to drain all excess juices.

The next time you have guests over for grilled burgers, consider an offering of smashed, black bean burgers. Vegetarians will thank you and meat lovers will be surprised.

Smashed Black Bean Burgers

Ingredients

2 (14-ounce) cans black beans, drained, rinsed, and patted dry

3 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil

¾ cup chopped red bell pepper

¼ cup cooked corn

½ yellow onion, finely chopped

2 scallions, white and green part, finely chopped

¼ cup fresh parsley, finely chopped

1 ½ tablespoons minced garlic

1 ½ teaspoons ground cumin

1 teaspoon chili powder

½ teaspoon garlic powder

½ teaspoon onion powder

½ teaspoon smoked paprika

½ cup bread crumbs

2 large eggs

1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

2 tablespoons mayonnaise

kosher salt to taste

favorite toppings

favorite cheese

favorite burger buns

1. Preheat oven to 325 degrees.

2. Spread beans evenly onto a lined baking sheet and bake for 15 minutes. This helps remove the moisture from the beans.

3. In the meantime, in a large skillet, sauté 1 tablespoon olive oil, pepper, corn, onions, scallions, parsley, and garlic over medium heat until soft. Strain in a mesh strainer and blot with paper towels.

4. Place half of the black beans on a chopping board. Using a fork mash the beans.

5. In a small bowl, combine eggs, Worcestershire sauce, and mayonnaise.

6. In a large bowl, combine all of the ingredients except for the remaining whole black beans. Mix until the all of the ingredients are thoroughly mixed.

7. Add whole black beans and carefully mix so the whole black beans do not get broken.

8. Form patties, they do not have to be perfect because you will be smashing them once they are placed in the pan.

9. In a large skillet, over medium high heat, add the remaining olive oil. Place 4 patties in the pan, and using a spatula, press down or smash the burger. Cook until it gets a good sear, and then flip the burger, and again cook until the other side obtains a good sear.

10. Serve with favorite toppings, cheese, and buns.

Yields about 6 to 7 burgers

Secret Ingredient – Future

“I am not afraid of tomorrow, for I have seen yesterday and I love today.”

William Allen White

NEW LIONS CLUB OFFICERS

4STEPS DONATION

Members of the OC Lions visited 4Steps Therapeutic Riding Program to learn about its services and present a donation. The organization works with children and adults with p hysical, emotional and behavioral health issues.

from

WEEKLY KIDS ARTS

Children are pictured with pieces they created at the Art League of Ocean City's free kids' arts program on July 6, at the Ocean City Center for the Arts on 94th Street. The programs are free, all are welcome, and held from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. weekly on summer Saturdays.

PHOTO COURTESY OC LIONS CLUB

Pictured, from left, are new Ocean City Lions Club President Stark, Director Greg Burgan, outgoing president Greg Cathell, Treasurer Chuck Becker, Director Danny Lewis, First Vice President Steve McMillan, Food Drive Chair Jeff Facello and Membership and Scholarship Chair Sean Williams.

Charlie and Winnie Cotting, of Olney

Pictured,

left, are OC Lion JD Quillin, President Greg Cathell, Lion Jeff Facello, 4Steps Executive Director Sandy Winter, and OC Lion Greg Burgan. PHOTO COURTESY

PHOTOS COURTESY

LEAGUE OF OCEAN CITY

Logan Murray, of Washington, D.C. Zoe Knesel, of Gaithersburg

Nolan and Kayla Diepold, of Bishopville

Christine Murray, of Washington, D.C. Mathew and Edward Jones, of Morristown, New Jersey

Calendar

Fri., July 19

TOWN CATS ADOPTION EVENT

PetSmart, 11330 Samuel Bowen Blvd., Berlin. 10 a.m.-3 p.m., July 18-20.

ARTISTIC ARENA: DREAMCATCHER

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 1 p.m. Catch all bad dreams in your own dreamcatcher. All materials provided. For ages 6-11 years and 12-18 years. 410-2084014, www.worcesterlibrary.org

LIBRARY CAMP OUT

Worcester County Library - Snow Hill Branch, 307 N. Washington St., 5 p.m. Come to the library garden for some fun camp-style activities. Make a craft, play games and hear some campfire stories. For all ages. 410-632-3495, www.worcesterlibrary.org

KIGHTS OF COLUMBUS BINGO

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

Sat., July 20

OC SUMMER PICKLEBALL TOURNAMENT

Ocean City Racquet Center, 104 61st St., 8 a.m. Cost is $20. Register at the Ocean City Racquet Center. 410-524-8337, https://www.ococean.com/event/ocsummer-pickleball-tournament/1968/

28TH ANNUAL ART HANSEN MEMORIAL YOUTH FISHING CONTEST

South Gate Pond, Ocean Pines, 8:3010:30 a.m. Registration at 8:30 a.m. Free event for ages 4-16 years. Bring rod and reel; bait and water provided. Trophies and prizes awarded. All participants will receive a prize. Jerry Leuters, 240-427-8929

WALK WITH A DOC

Southgate Pond, Race Track Road, Ocean Pines, 9-10 a.m. An Atlantic General representative will give a brief discussion, on their expertise, then lead the group for a walk around the pond. First 10 participants receive $10 WalMart gift card. 410-641-9268

CRAFTY SATURDAY: FRIENDSHIP DAY

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 10 a.m. July 30th is the International Day of Friendships. Join in to celebrate friendships with bracelets and more. For all ages. 410-208-4014, www.worcesterlibrary.org

ASSATEAGUE ADVENTURES

Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 10:30 a.m. A ranger-led adventure featuring crafts, puppets, stories and cool props from As-

sateague Island National Seashore. A different adventure each week. For all ages. 410-641-0650, www.worcesterlibrary.org

TOWN CATS ADOPTION EVENT

PetSmart, 11330 Samuel Bowen Blvd., Berlin. 10 a.m.-3 p.m., July 18-20.

CHICKEN BBQ FUNDRAISER

St. Paul United Methodist Church, 405 Flower St., Berlin, 11 a.m. Cost is $15 for a 1/2 BBQ chicken platter with two sides, roll and drink and $12 for a 1/2 BBQ chicken, roll and drink. Proceeds benefit the church’s men’s ministry.

COMIC BOOK CLUB

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 11 a.m. Learn how to begin creating your own comic book and get set drafting. No experience required. For ages 8-18 years. 410-208-4014, www.worcesterlibrary.org

FREE KIDS CRAFT

Art League of Ocean City, 502 94th St., 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Bring the kids and do something creative with them and for them. Projects change each week. No reservations needed. Free and open to all. www.artleagueofoceancity.org, 410524-9433

GERMANTOWN REGGAE FUNDRAISER

Germantown School Community Heritage Center, 10223 Trappe Road, Berlin, 6-9 p.m. A night of Reggae music with “Island Sounds.” Bring chairs, coolers and picnic baskets. Admission cost is $10. Hot dogs, soda and chips available for $5, while supplies last. 410-641-0638

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.

Sun., July 21

SUNDAES IN THE PARK WITH FIREWORKS

Northside Park, 200 125th St., Ocean City, 7-9 p.m. Live music by “Among the Stars” (tribute band), kid-friendly entertainment, ice cream and fireworks. https://www.ococean.com/things-todo/free-family-fun/sundaes-in-the-park/

BERLIN FLEA MARKET

Sundays - Uptown Emporium Parking Lot, 13 S. Main St., Berlin, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Vendor opportunities available. Julie, 410-726-9012; Bill, 410-629-9656

BERLIN FARMERS MARKET

Sundays through October - Pitts Street, Commerce Street and Main Street, Berlin, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., rain or shine. Featuring more than 50 farmers, bakers, growers, brewers, food cultivators, dis-

tillers, creators and artists. Also free kids art projects, petting zoo, face painting and live music. https://berlinmainstreet.com/farmersmarket/

SEWING FOR A CAUSE

Sundays - Buckingham Presbyterian Church, 20 S. Main St., Berlin, 10:30 a.m. to noon. Learn how to sew while making a difference. 410-641-0234

JEHOVAH’S WITNESSES MEETING

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

Mon., July 22

OC BEACH DANCE PARTY WITH FIREWORKS

Caroline St. Stage, 2 N. Atlantic Ave., Ocean City, 7:30-9:30 p.m. Beachside dance party featuring “DJ Knappy & Gizmo.” Free fireworks show starts at 9 p.m. All ages welcome. https://www.ococean.com/things-to-do/free-familyfun/oc-beach-dance-party

STORY TIME: COLORS

Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 10:30 a.m. Summer story time about colors. There will be stories, songs and crafts. For ages 0-5 years. 410-524-1818, www.worcesterlibrary.org

WRITING FOR WELLNESS

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 1:30 p.m. Writing about stressful experiences like illness may boost health and psychological well-being. Group uses exercises to stimulate creative expression. 410-2084014, www.worcesterlibrary.org

STORY TIME AT THE FARM

Chesapeake Bay Farms, 4111 Whitesburg Road, Pocomoke City, 2 p.m. Visit the Chesapeake Bay Farms for a special story time. Stick around to feed some of the animals. Fro ages 2-5 years. 410957-0878, 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

BRIDGE

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

DELMARVA WOMEN’S A CAPELLA CHORUS

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

OVEREATER’S ANONYMOUS

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

BRIDGE

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

DELMARVA WOMEN’S A CAPELLA CHORUS

Mondays - Ocean Pines Community Center, 239 Ocean Parkway, 6:00-8:00 p.m. All ladies who love to sing invited. Mary, 410-629-9383 or Carol, 302-242-7062.

OVEREATER’S ANONYMOUS

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

Tues., July 23

STORY TIME: ‘ARMADILLOS’

Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 10:30 a.m. Stories, songs and finger plays. For ages 2-5 years. 410-641-0650, www.worcesterlibrary.org

JUGGLING WITH CASCADING CARLOS

Worcester County Library - Snow Hill Branch, 307 N. Washington St., 10:30 a.m. Learn about the ancient art of juggling while Guinness World Book Record holder, Cascading Carlos, hypnotizes with his juggling skills. For all ages. 410632-3495, www.worcesterlibrary.org

FRIENDS OF THE OCEAN PINES LIBRARY ANNUAL BOOK SALE - TEASER! Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 12-4 p.m. All prospective customers welcome. The specials room, open for a limited time, features collectibles, signed copies, rare books, sets and vintage books. Proceeds benefit the library. 410-208-4014

HISTORY OF COLLAGE

Worcester County Library - Snow Hill Branch, 307 N. Washington St., 1 p.m. Learn about the usage of collage throughout art history and try your hand at making your own masterpiece. 410632-3495, www.worcesterlibrary.org

WEEGAMERZ VIDEO GAME TRUCK

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 2 p.m. Enjoy a wide selection of games in the high-tech and climate controlled video game truck. Players play in 20 minute turns. Register: 410-208-4014. For ages 12-18 years. www.worcesterlibrary.org

JR. LIFEGUARD CAMP

Ocean Pines Sports Core Pool, 11144 Cathell Road, 5:30-7 p.m., July 23-25. Must be a strong swimmer. For ages 7 years and older. Cost is $75 for resi-

Continued on Page 62

CALENDAR

dents, $80 for non-residents. Jr. Lifeguards receive T-shirt and whistle. Register: 410-641-5255, oceanpines.org.

BEACH HEROES-OC

Tuesdays - Volunteer beach clean-up group meets from 9-10 a.m., year-round. Trash bags, grippers and gloves provided. Check the Facebook page “Beach Heroes-OC” for weekly meeting locations. All are welcome.

JEHOVAH’S WITNESSES MEETING

Tuesdays - Berlin Congregation of Jehovah’s Witnesses, 212 West St., Berlin, 7 p.m. www.jw.org

TAKE OFF POUNDS SENSIBLY

Tuesdays - Worcester County Health Department, 9730 Healthway Drive, Berlin, 3:30-4:30 p.m. TOPS is a weekly support and education group promoting weight loss and a healthy lifestyle. 410289-4725

OC KNITTING CLUB

Tuesdays - Worcester County LibraryOcean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 10:30 a.m.

ARGENTINE TANGO PRACTICE

Tuesdays - Experienced dancers and others interested in watching or learning more are welcome, 7-9:30 p.m. No partner required. Info: TangobytheBeach.com.

ZUMBA TONING TUESDAYS

Tuesdays - Northside Park, 200 125th St., Ocean City, 5:30 p.m. Zumba with optional light weights. zumbajoyceoc@gmail.com

WEIGHT MANAGEMENT AND WELLNESS GROUP

Tuesdays - Holy Trinity Cathedral, 11021 Worcester Highway, 2-2:45 p.m. Use the weight loss program/app/plan of your choice. Free and open to everyone. 410641-4882, www.htcanglican.org/activities.

Wed., July 24

MOVIES ON THE BEACH

Carousel Oceanfront Hotel & Condos, 11700 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, 8:30 p.m. Featuring “Trolls Band Together.” Enjoy free movies on the beach every Wednesday through the summer. Movie lineup: https://www.ococean.com/thingsto-do/free-family-fun/.

STRANDED AT SEA: OC BAY HOPPER PROGRAM

OC Bay Hopper, 11703 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, 5:35-7:05 p.m. Uncover the gripping details of three 1880 shipwrecks. Cost is $50 with half of proceeds donated to Ocean City Life-Saving Station Museum. 410-289-4991, emma@ocmuseum.org, https://book.ocbayhopper.com/Experience

BARIATRIC SUPPORT GROUP

call on the third and fourth

Wednesday of each month. For surgical patients. Atlantic General Bariatric Center, 410-641-9568

SEW WHAT? FOR TEENS

Worcester County Library - Snow Hill Branch, 307 N. Washington St., 9 a.m.-6 p.m. A self-guided tour through the library with sewing guides, activities, and supples to help learn the very basics of sewing. Participants receive a mini sewing kit. For ages 12-21 years. 410632-3495

BABY TIME

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 10 a.m. Songs, stories and giggles. For ages 0-2 years. 410-208-4014, www.worcesterlibrary.org

JUGGLING WITH CASCADING CARLOS

Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 10:3011:30 a.m. Learn about the ancient art of juggling while Guinness World Book Record holder, Cascading Carlos, hypnotizes with his juggling skills. For all ages. 410-524-1818, www.worcesterlibrary.org

FRIENDS OF THE OCEAN PINES LIBRARY ANNUAL BOOK SALE - TEASER!

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 12-4 p.m. All prospective customers welcome. The specials room, open for a limited time, features collectibles, signed copies, rare books, sets and vintage books. Proceeds benefit the library. 410-208-4014

CHOOSE YOUR ADVENTURE WITH SEASHELL PAINTING

Worcester County Library - Pocomoke Branch, 301 Market St., 2 p.m. Create a one-of-a-kind piece using shells collected from local beaches. Adventure themes range from outer space to ocean depths and all points in-between. Registration required: 410-957-0878.

GRIEF SUPPORT GROUP

Atlantic General Hospital, Conference Room 1, 9733 Healthway Drive, Berlin, 3-4:30 p.m. Providing participants with hops for the future. Gail Mansell, 410641-9725, gmansell@atlanticgeneral.org

ANALOG NIGHT

Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 4 p.m. Fun and games, analog style. Snacks and games will be provided, but patrons are welcome to bring their own too. For ages 12-18 years. 410-641-0650, www.worcesterlibrary.org

FAMILY FUN NIGHT

Ocean Pines Yacht Club Pool, 1 Mumfords Landing Road, 6-8 p.m. Featuring swimming, DJ, games and prizes. Cost is $3 for swim members; $5 for residents and $7 for non-resident. No cost if not swimming. Food available. Wednesdays through Aug. 21. 410-641-7052

KIWANIS CLUB MEETING Wednesdays through Aug. 26 - Worces-

ter County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 8 a.m. Doors open at 7:30 a.m. Third Wednesday meetings are offsite and information can be found on www.kiwanisofopoc.org.

Thurs., July 25

SUNSET PARK PARTY NIGHT

Sunset Park, 700 S. Philadelphia Ave., Ocean City, 7-9 p.m. Enjoy a free concert and sunset views over the Isle of Wight Bay. Featuring “Juke Box Heros” (Foreigner Tribute Band). http://www.ococean.com/things-to-do/

CONCERT IN THE PARK

White Horse Park Pavilion, 235 Ocean Parkway, Ocean Pines, 7-9 p.m. Featuring “Colossal Fossil Sauce.” Free familyfriendly entertainment. Bring chairs and blankets. BYOB permitted, concessions for sale. Held Thursdays through Aug. 22. 410-641-7052

FENWICK NURTURES NATURE

Fenwick Island Town Hall, 800 Coastal Highway, 8:30-11:30 a.m. Stop in to learn how people can live in harmony with nature by reducing the negative impacts of excess nighttime lighting and increasing biodiversity in landscaping. Free snacks, crafts and raffles.

STORY TIME: THE THREE LITTLE SUPERPIGS

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 10:30 a.m. An adventure story with a new take on an old story. Songs, stories and crafts. For ages 2-5 years. 410-208-4014, www.worcesterlibrary.org

PLAY TIME

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

CAMPFIRE STORIES

Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 10:30 a.m. Bring along a sleeping bag or towel to sit around the simulated fire for some camp themed activities. Songs, stories, a craft and a s’more snack. For ages 6-11 years. 410-524-1818

FRIENDS OF THE OCEAN PINES LIBRARY ANNUAL BOOK SALE - TEASER!

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 12-4 p.m. All prospective customers welcome. The specials room, open for a limited time, features collectibles, signed copies, rare books, sets and vintage books. Proceeds benefit the library. 410-208-4014

WEEGAMERZ VIDEO GAME TRUCK

Worcester County Library - Pocomoke Branch, 301 Market St., 2 p.m. Enjoy a wide selection of games in the high-tech and climate controlled video game truck. Players play in 20 minute turns. Regis-

ter: 410-957-0878. For ages 12-18 years. www.worcesterlibrary.org

LET’S TALK MOVIES: ‘STAR WARS’ Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 2 p.m. Come to Ocean City’s movie club, where the group talks about classic films and new blockbuster hits. 410-524-1818, www.worcesterlibrary.org

LEGO MASTERS CHALLENGE

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 2 p.m. Join in for a LEGO challenge event. All materials provided. For ages 6-12 years. 410208-4014, www.worcesterlibrary.org

FIRESIDE CHAT

Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 3 p.m. A popular and entertaining book discussion featuring books participants have read and want to share. Come and find your next great read. 410-641-0650, www.worcesterlibrary.org

JUGGLING WITH CASCADING CARLOS Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 4 p.m. Learn about the ancient art of juggling while Guinness World Book Record holder, Cascading Carlos, hypnotizes with his juggling skills. For all ages. 410-6410650, www.worcesterlibrary.org

BEACH SINGLE 55 PLUS MEET AND GREET

Thursdays - Nick’s Kitchen + Bar, 14410 Coastal Hwy., Ocean City, 4-6 p.m. 215385-4993, BeachSingles.org

ONGOING EVENTS

FIND A SUMMER STAR IN BERLIN Search outside downtown Berlin to find free handblown Summer Stars by artist Jeffrey Auxer Designs. The hunt lasts all summer with 100 to win. Please register stars found at https://berlinmainstreet.com/berlinbubble-project/. The Berlin Bubble Project: Operation Summer Stars.

ROCK THE PARK

Ocean Pines Recreation & Parks will hide five golden rocks at different Ocean Pines parks every week from June 17 through Aug. 19. Find a rock, return it to the OP Community Center to receive a prize. 410-641-7052

Crossword answers from page 56

Now Hiring for Extended Season. Small family business, no exp. req.

Great Pay, Great Tips, Great Place to Work!

Stop by & talk to our employees!

Call cell anytime 443-859-2401 or bus. 302-537-5882, 11am-7pm

NOW HIRING PT Dental Hygienist Ocean City, MD 410-213-1032

Cleaners Wanted for Ocean City, MD

If you are a conscientious individual or team looking for great pay and minimal hours on summer Saturdays in OC, then we are the cleaning company for you. Exp. Preferred. Cell phone and vehicle required. 443-880-0525

HIRING!

COOK Call Pam 410-726-7061 or apply within 56th Street

Line Cooks • Hostesses

Today-Dispatch 63

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

CONTRACTOR

Seeking qualified contractor bid on a new project opportunity for the demolition and construction of staircases and decking structures for a three-story condominium building in North Ocean City, MD. For more information please email Justin at jredding@jwse.com along with contact info and company details.

Small Engine Mechanic Year-round. Competitive Wages. 443-754-1047

For:

Year Round Rental - West Ocean City. Two Bedroom, One Bathroom Cottage. $2000 per month plus utilities. 410-430-9797

YR Ocean Pines Two story, 3BR, 2.5BA, screened porch, open decks, fireplace, large garage. No smoking, no pets. Good credit. $2,400 per month, plus all utilities. 301-509-6515

Waterfront Bayside - Newly remodeled 2BR, 2BA Condo in North OC. 4 steps to ground level off your private balcony. Full kitchen, LR, DR, W/D, balcony w/tables + seating for 6. Seasonal/ monthly Dec.-April, $2,000. Contact Julie 443-223-4623

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

Commercial Space for Lease. 2-3 Units available, can be divided or joined. Approx. 800-1000 sq. ft. ea. Busy major road in Town of Berlin. Call 443-880-8885 for more information.

Industrial Warehouse. Space: 1500 sq. ft. Masonry construction, 18’ high ceiling, large garage door, bathroom, yard and storage shed. Approx. 10x25+/Route 90/Bishopville. Call 443-497-4200. 1 Office/Retail Space available in West Ocean City. Approximately 1656 sq. ft. Call 443-497-4200

DONATIONS

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

www.holidayoc.com

o Experience preferred.

o Tools, transportation & valid driver’s license are a plus.

o Excellent pay and a competitive benefits package available. Please Apply Online:

https://www.allstatesconst.com/delmarva-renovations-careers Or Contact Our Office at 410-352-9800

Ocean Aviation Flight Academy seeks Office Assistant

Growing Flight Academy with campuses in Berlin, Maryland and Georgetown, Delaware seeks Exceptional Candidate to join our team. Professional Friendly office environment. F/T Weekend availability is a plus. Year Around Position. Responsible for student interaction, dispatch and check in of flights, filing, retail sales and keeping our offices neat and clean. Must be customer oriented and be proficient in data entry and have good computer skills. Previous office or educational experience necessary.

Please forward resume to mfreed@flyoceanaviation.com

We prefer initial contact be through e-mail only. Qualified applicants will be contacted for in person interviews.

MISC./OTHER

Did you know me, Lord, In the very beginning, Even before stars? Please settle my dust, The Hem of Your Robe!

www.dental50plus.com/ MDDC #6258

FOR SALE

Prepare for power outages today with a GENERAC Home Standby Generator. Act now to receive a FREE 5-Year warranty with qualifying purchase. Call 1-855-993-0969 today to schedule a free quote. It’s not just a generator. It’s a power move.

MISC. FOR SALE

Get Boost Infinite! Unlimited Talk, Text and Data For Just $25/mo! The Power Of 3 5G Networks, One Low Price! Call Today and Get The Latest iPhone Every Year On Us! 855-977-5719

Get DISH Satellite TV + Internet! Free Install, Free HDDVR Upgrade, 80,000 On-Demand Movies, Plus Limited Time Up To $600 In Gift Cards. Call Today! 1-855407-6870

VEHICLES WANTED DONATE YOUR CAR/TRUCK/ RV - Lutheran Mission Society of MD Compassion Place ministries help local families with food, clothing, counseling. Tax deductible. MVA licensed #W1044. 410-228-8437

www.CompassionPlace.org

JAMES E. CLUBB, JR., ESQ.

108 N. 8th Street

Ocean City, Maryland 21842

TRUSTEE'S SALE OF TIME-SHARE INTERVALS IN THE OCEAN TIME CONDOMINIUM OCEAN CITY, MARYLAND

By virtue of a Claim of Lien recorded among the Land Records of Worcester County, Maryland, and pursuant to the Order of the Circuit Court for Worcester County, Maryland, Case No. C-23-CV-24-000125, the undersigned Trustee will offer for sale at public auction at the Ocean Time Condominium building located at 13 136th Street, Ocean City, MD 21842, the following described property located in the Town of Ocean City, in the Tenth Election District of Worcester County, Maryland, on

FRIDAY, AUGUST 2, 2024 AT 9:00 A.M.

such deposit to be in cash or check. Cost of all recordation and transfer taxes and all other incidental settlement costs shall be borne by the purchaser. The date of settlement shall be fifteen (15) days after final ratification by the Circuit Court for Worcester County, Maryland, time being of the essence; otherwise, the deposit will be forfeited and the property will be resold at the risk and expense of the defaulting purchaser, or in any manner designated by the Trustee; or, without forfeiting deposit, the Seller may exercise any of its legal or equitable rights against the defaulting purchaser. For more information, call:

James E. Clubb, Jr., Esq. Trustee 410-289-2323

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JAMES E. CLUBB, JR., ESQ. 108 N. 8th Street

Ocean City, Maryland 21842

TRUSTEE'S SALE

OF TIME-SHARE INTERVALS IN THE LIGHTHOUSE POINT VILLAS CONDOMINIUM

OCEAN CITY, MARYLAND

By virtue of a Claim of Lien recorded among the Land Records of Worcester County, Maryland, and pursuant to the Order of the Circuit Court for Worcester County, Maryland, Case No. C-23-CV-24-000126, he undersigned Trustee will offer for sale at public auction at the Lighthouse Point Villas Condominium building located at 14409 Lighthouse Avenue, the following described property located in the Town of Ocean City, in the Tenth Election District of Worcester County, Maryland, on

FRIDAY, AUGUST 2, 2024 AT 9:30 A.M.

ject any and all bids.

Terms of Sale: A deposit in the full amount of sale per time interval will be required at the time of sale, such deposit to be in cash or check. Cost of all recordation and transfer taxes and all other incidental settlement costs shall be borne by the purchaser. The date of settlement shall be fifteen (15) days after final ratification by the Circuit Court for Worcester County, Maryland, time being of the essence; otherwise, the deposit will be forfeited and the property will be resold at the risk and expense of the defaulting purchaser, or in any manner designated by the Trustee; or, without forfeiting deposit, the Seller may exercise any of its legal or equitable rights against the defaulting purchaser.

For more information, call: James E. Clubb, Jr., Esq. Trustee 410-289-2323 OCD-7/18/3t

McCabe, Weisberg & Conway, LLC 312 Marshall Avenue, Suite 800 Laurel, MD 20707 www.mwc-law.com

SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEES’ SALE

OF IMPROVED REAL PROPERTY

407 MAPLE STREET POCOMOKE CITY, MD 21851

Each time interval being one week per year of the corresponding unit, each unit being part of the Ocean Time Condominium as established pursuant to a Condominium Declaration and By-Laws recorded among the Land Records of Worcester County, Maryland, and subsequent Time-Share Instruments as to each condominium unit, and recorded among the aforesaid Land Records.

The property will be sold in an as is condition and subject to conditions, restrictions and agreements of record affecting the same, if any, and with no warranties or guarantees. A secured party may bid and shall be excused from deposit requirements. The Trustee reserves the right to reject any and all bids.

Terms of Sale: A deposit in the full amount of sale per time interval will be required at the time of sale,

Each time interval being one week per year of the corresponding unit, each unit being part of the Lighthouse Point Villas Condominium, including an undivided interest in the common elements thereof, as established pursuant to a Condominium Declaration and ByLaws recorded among the Land Records of Worcester County, Maryland, and subsequent Declarations of Covenants, Conditions and Restrictions as to each condominium unit, and recorded among the aforesaid Land Records.

The property will be sold in an as is condition and subject to conditions, restrictions and agreements of record affecting the same, if any, and with no warranties or guarantees. A secured party may bid and shall be excused from deposit requirements. The Trustee reserves the right to re-

Under a power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust from Ronald E. Cox, dated May 16, 2014 and recorded in Liber 6387, folio 180 among the Land Records of Worcester County, MD, default having occurred under the terms thereof and at the request of the parties secured thereby, the undersigned Substitute Trustees will offer for sale at public auction at the Circuit Court for Worcester County, at the Court House Door, One W. Market St., Snow Hill, MD 21863, on

AUGUST 6, 2024 AT 3:55 PM

ALL THAT FEE SIMPLE LOT OF GROUND AND THE IMPROVEMENTS THEREON situated in Worcester County, Maryland and more fully described in the aforesaid Deed of Trust. The property is improved by a dwelling.

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

Terms of Sale: A deposit in the form of cashier's or certified check, or in such other form as the Substitute Trustees may determine, at their sole discretion, for $9,000 at the time of sale. If the noteholder and/or servicer is the successful bidder, the deposit requirement is waived. Balance of the purchase price is to be paid within ten (10) days of the final ratification of the sale by the Circuit Court for Worcester County, Maryland. Interest is to be paid on the unpaid purchase price at the rate of 5% per annum from date of sale to

the date the funds are received in the office of the Substitute Trustees, if the property is purchased by an entity other than the noteholder and/or servicer. If payment of the balance does not occur within ten (10) days of ratification, the deposit will be forfeited as liquidated damages. The purchaser agrees that the property may be resold pursuant to an order of court, waives personal service upon themselves and/or any principal or corporate designee of any documents filed regarding the failure to pay the purchase price within ten (10) days of ratification and expressly agrees to accept service by first class mail of said documents at the address provided by the purchaser in the Memorandum of Sale. The purchaser will not be entitled to any surplus or profits arising from the resale even if they are the result of improvements made by the purchaser. There will be no abatement of interest due from the purchaser in the event settlement is delayed for any reason. Taxes, ground rent, water rent, and all other public charges and assessments payable on an annual basis, including sanitary and/or metropolitan district charges, and front foot benefit charges, if applicable, to be adjusted for the current year to the date of sale, and assumed thereafter by the purchaser. Condominium fees and/or homeowners association dues, if any, shall be assumed by the purchaser from the date of sale. The purchaser shall be responsible for the payment of the ground rent escrow, if required. Cost of all documentary stamps, transfer taxes (including agricultural transfer taxes, if applicable), and all settlement charges shall be borne by the purchaser. The sale is subject to a post sale audit of the loan, including but not limited to an analysis of whether the borrower entered into a loan modification agreement, filed bankruptcy, reinstated or paid off the loan prior to the sale. The Substitute Trustees will convey either insurable or marketable title. If the Substitute Trustees are unable to convey insurable or marketable title or, the post sale audit concludes that the sale should not have occurred, or the sale is not ratified by the court for any reason, the purchaser’s sole remedy in law or equity shall be limited to the refund of the deposit without interest even if the purchaser has made improvements to the property. Upon refund of the deposit, the sale shall be void and of no effect, and the purchaser shall have no further claim against the Substitute Trustees. Purchaser shall be responsible for obtaining physical possession of the property. The purchaser at the foreclosure sale shall assume the risk of loss for the property immediately after the sale. (Matter #16-605854).

Laura H. G. O'Sullivan, et al., Substitute Trustees

1099 WINTERSON ROAD, SUITE 301

LINTHICUM HEIGHTS, MARYLAND 21090

www.cgd-law.com/sales

SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEES' SALE OF IMPROVED REAL PROPERTY

808

&

810 2ND STREET POCOMOKE, MD 21851

By authority contained in a Deed of Trust dated August 25, 2020 and recorded in Liber 7968, Folio 440, , among the Land Records of Worcester County, Maryland, with an original principal balance of $99,000.00, and an interest rate of 20.990%, default having occurred thereunder, the Substitute Trustees will sell at public auction at the Courthouse door for the Circuit Court for Worcester County, One West Market Street, Snow Hill, MD 21863, on

August 5, 2024 at 11:00AM

ALL THAT FEE SIMPLE property more fully described in the aforesaid Deed of Trust. The property is improved by a dwelling.

Terms of Sale: The property will be sold “as is” subject to any conditions, restrictions, easements and agreements of record affecting same with no warranty of any kind. A deposit of $9,800.00 by certified funds only (no cash accepted) required at time of auction. Balance of the purchase price to be paid within 10 days of ratification of sale by the Court, with interest at the note rate from date of sale to settlement. If settlement is delayed for ANY reason, there shall be no abatement of interest or taxes. All private utility, water and sewer facilities charges, front foot benefit payments, ground rent, or condo/HOA assessments, not otherwise divested by ratification of the sale are payable by purchaser without adjustment. Real estate taxes and all other public charges, or assessments, to be adjusted as of date of sale. Transfer and recordation taxes, and all other costs incident to settlement, shall be borne by purchaser. Purchaser shall be responsible for obtaining physical possession of the property.

TIME IS OF THE ESSENCE. If purchaser fails to go to settlement within ten days of ratification, or otherwise fails to comply with the terms of sale, the Trustee may declare the entire deposit forfeited and resell the property at the risk and expense of defaulting purchaser, who agrees to pay reasonable attorneys' fees and costs if a motion to resell the property has been filed, purchaser waives personal service of any paper filed in connection with such motion, and agrees to accept service of any such paper by regular mail to the address provided at time of sale. If the Trustee cannot convey insurable title, or the loan servicer determines that the sale should not have occurred, the sale shall be null and void, and purchaser's sole rem-

edy shall be the return of deposit without interest.

Richard E. Solomon, et al., Sub. Trustees

Tidewater Auctions, LLC (410) 825-2900

www.tidewaterauctions.com

CGD File #: 460586

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Huesman, Jones and Miles, LLC 11350 McCormick Road Executive Plaza I, Suite 407 Hunt Valley, MD 21031 (443) 541-8507

SUBSTITUTE

TRUSTEE’S SALE OF REAL PROPERTY

KNOWN AS 9235 WHALEYVILLE RD., WHALEYVILLE, MD 21872

Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a Deed of Trust from Magdalene Mavrakis, recorded among the Land Records of Worcester County in Liber 7147, Folio 198, and Substitution of Trustees recorded among the aforementioned Land Records substituting Gerard F. Miles, Jr as Substitute Trustee, the Substitute Trustee will offer for sale at public auction, at the Circuit Court for Worcester County, at the Courthouse Door, Circuit Court for Worcester County, One West Market Street, Snow Hill, MD 21863 on July 29, 2024, at 11:00 AM:

All that lot of ground and the improvements thereon situate in Worcester County, State of Maryland, as described in the Deed of Trust recorded among the Land Records of Baltimore City, in Liber 7147 Folio 198. The property being known as 9235 Whaleyville Rd., Whaleyville, MD 21872. The improvements thereon consist of a dwelling

The property will be sold in “AS IS” condition, subject to any existing building violations, restrictions and agreements of record. The purchaser assumes all risks of loss for the property as of the date of sale. Neither the Substitute Trustee nor its respective agents, successors or assigns make any representations or warranties, either expressed or implied with respect to the property. The Substitute Trustee shall convey insurable title.

The property is being sold fee simple.

TERMS OF THE SALE: A deposit in a form acceptable to the Substitute Trustee in the amount of $10,000 will be required of the purchaser, other than the Holder of the Note or its assigns, at the time and place of sale. Any amount tendered at sale in excess of the required deposit will be refunded and not applied to the purchase price. Unless the purchaser is the Holder of the Note or its assigns, the balance of the purchase price shall be paid immediately with available funds within ten (10) days of the final ratification of the sale by the Circuit Court for Baltimore City. Time is of the essence. The purchaser, other than the Holder of the Note or its assigns, shall pay interest at the rate of 4% per annum on the unpaid portion of the purchase price from the date of

sale to date of settlement. Real property taxes and assessments shall be adjusted to the date of sale and assumed thereafter by the purchaser. Ground rent, water, condominium dues, HOA dues, and/or sewer charges public or private, if any, shall be adjusted to the date of sale and assumed thereafter by the purchaser. Cost of all documentary stamps and transfer taxes shall be paid by the purchaser. Purchaser shall have the responsibility of obtaining possession of the property.

In the event settlement is delayed for any reason , there shall be no abatement of interest. If the purchaser defaults, the entire deposit is forfeited. The Substituted Trustees shall resell the property at the risk and expense of the defaulting purchaser. The defaulting purchaser shall be liable for the payment of any deficiency in the purchase price, all costs and expenses of both sales, attorney fees, all other charges due, and incidental and consequential damages.

In the event the Substituted Trustees do not convey title for any reason, purchaser’s sole remedy is return of the deposit. The Purchaser shall have no further recourse against the Mortgagor, the Deed of Trust or the Deed of Trust's attorney. The Substituted Trustees shall have the right to terminate this contract in the event the Holder has entered into any agreement with, or accepted funds from, the mortgagor. Upon termination of the contract, Purchaser’s sole remedy shall be return of the deposit.

Gerard F. Miles, Jr., Substitute Trustee Tidewater Auctions, LLC (410) 825-2900 www.tidewaterauctions.com

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

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 20252

TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF EVA LOUISE ELLIOTT HALL

Notice is given that Gary Alvin McCabe, 11014 W. Line Rd., Bishopville, MD 21813-1168, was on June 25, 2024 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Eva Louise Elliott Hall who died on June 09, 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 25th day of December, 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.

Gary Alvin McCabe 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: July 4, 2024

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ELIZABETH A. GREEN ESQ. BREZA & ASSOCIATES, LLC 11019 MCCORMICK RD STE 400 HUNT VALLEY, MD 21031-1407

NOTICE

OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

To all persons interested in the estate of ROBERT PATRICK RIORDAN Estate No. 20250 Notice is given that CHRISTOPHER RIORDAN whose address is 2234 LOUIS KOSSUTH AVE RONKONKOMA, NY 11779-6323 was on JUNE 25, 2024 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of ROBERT PATRICK RIORDAN who died on APRIL 17, 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 25th day of DECEMBER, 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

TERRI WESTCOTT, Register of Wills for WORCESTER COUNTY

ONE W MARKET STREET

ROOM 102 - COURT HOUSE

SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1074

OCD-7/4/3t

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, July 25, 2024 AT 6:00 PM

Pursuant to the provisions of Section 110-93(2), Powers of the Code, an appeal of Section 110-94(5) has been filed to request a special outdoor display of merchandise exception for merchandise to be located on the exterior of the business that is locally known as The Beach Place Outlet. The site of the appeal is described as Revised Parcel A of the Revised Subdivision Plat entitled “Lands of Braniff Family Limited Partnership.” It is further described as being located on the southwest corner of Coastal Highway and 77th Street and is locally known as 7605 Coastal Highway in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.

APPLICANT: D+L OCEAN ENTERPRISES, LLC (BZA 2696 #2409400019)

AT 6:10 PM

Pursuant to the provisions of Section 110-93(2), Powers of the Code, an appeal of Sections 110-94(1) & 110-94(5) has been filed to request (1) a special use exception for a temporary sales tent event; and (2) a special outdoor display of merchandise exception for outdoor furniture to be located on the exterior of the business known as Donaway Furniture. The site of the appeal is described as Lots 1, 2, 3, 11, 12, 13 & 14, Block 89, of the Fenwick Plat. It is further described as being located on the northwest corner of Coastal Highway and 130th Street and is locally known as Donaway Furniture located at 13001 Coastal Highway, in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.

APPLICANT: GALEN GARDNER (DONAWAY FURNITURE) (BZA 2697 #24-09400018)

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-7/11/2t

B. RANDALL COATES ESQ

COATES, COATES, & COATES

204 WEST GREEN STREET

P.O. BOX 293

SNOW HILL, D 21863

NOTICE

OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 20256 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF ANN V. BRUNING

Notice is given that David W. Bruning Sr., 8513 Cedartown Rd., Snow Hill, MD 21863-2637, was on July 02, 2024 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Ann V. Bruning who died on May 11, 2024, with a will.

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

All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent’s will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 2nd day of January, 2025.

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

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

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

David W. Bruning Sr. 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: July 11, 2024

COUNTY, DELAWARE appointed KLAUS PERCHINIAK whose address is 2400 DORVAL RD., WILMINGTON, DE 19810-3529 as the PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE of the Estate of MONICA T. BAEUERLE PETERKA who died on APRIL 25, 2024 domiciled in DELAWARE, NEW CASTLE COUNTY

The Maryland resident agent for service of process is DAVID ROBERTS whose address is REGISTERED AGENTS, INC., 5000 THAYER CENTER, SUITE C, OAKLAND, MD 21550. At the time of death, the decedent owned real or leasehold property in the following Maryland counties: WORCESTER

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

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

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

TERRI WESTCOTT, Register of Wills for Worcester County ONE W MARKET STREET ROOM 102 - COURT HOUSE SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1074 OCD-7/11/3t

MARIANNA BATIE ESQ. LAW OFFICE OF MARIANNA BATIE 1321 MOUNT HERMON RD., STE. B SALISBURY, MD 21804-5303 NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 20264 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF RAYMOND J. SHANLEY

AKA: RAYMOND JOSEPH SHANLEY

Notice is given that Jean Marie Shanley, 11638 Brandywine Ln., Berlin, MD 21811-2686, was on July 10, 2024 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Raymond J. Shanley who died on August 17, 2023, with a will.

lier 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.

Jean Marie Shanley 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: July 18, 2024

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BETH B. MILLER ESQ. FOX ROTHSCHILD, LLP

1201 N. MARKET ST., STE. 1200 WILMINGTON, DE 19801-1163

NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVES

ESTATE NO. 20258

NOTICE IS GIVEN that the CHANCERY court of NEW CASTLE

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

All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent’s will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 10th day of January, 2025.

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

OCD-7/18/3t

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

P.O. BOX 910

115 BROAD STREET SALISBURY, MD 21803-0910

SMALL ESTATE NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE NO. 20266 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF DOROTHY C. MORSE AKA: DOROTHY CASICO MORSE Notice is given that Paul J. Coleianne, 3901 Darleigh Rd., Apt. G, Nottingham, MD 21236-5810, was on July 10, 2024 appointed personal representative of the small estate of Dorothy C. Morse who died on September 10, 2023, with a will.

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

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

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

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

(2) Thirty days after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the

claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claim within thirty days from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. Any claim not served or filed within that time, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter.

Paul J. Coleianne 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: July 18, 2024

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REENA J. PATEL, ESQ. LAW OFFICE OF MARIANNA BATIE 1321 MT. HERMON ROAD, STE. B SALISBURY, MD 21804

NOTICE

OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 20273 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF MAURICE L. BARRETT III

Notice is given that Maurice L. Barrett IV, 435 E. End Ave., Beaver, PA 15009-1904, was on July 15, 2024 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Maurice L. Barrett III who died on June 30, 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 15th day of January, 2025.

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

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

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

Maurice L. Barrett IV 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: July 18, 2024

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COATES, COATES, & COATES, P.A.

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

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE ESTATE NO. 20272

Notice is given that the Superior Court of Middlesex County, New Jersey appointed Richard S. Pychewicz, 38 Monaghan Rd., Edison, NJ 08817-4153 as the Executor of the Estate of Ann Pychewicz who died on December 04, 2023 domiciled in New Jersey, USA.

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

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

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

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

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

Richard S. Pychewicz

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: July 18, 2024

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NOTICE

OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 20265

TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF BEVERLY JOAN MONTGOMERY

Notice is given that Cynthia Marie Leitgeb, 717 Rusty Anchor Rd., Unit 12, Ocean City, MD 218425171, was on July 10, 2024 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Beverly Joan Montgomery who died on November 17, 2023, with a will.

Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in

the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal representative or the attorney.

All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent’s will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 10th day of January, 2025.

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

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

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

Cynthia Marie Leitgeb 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: July 18, 2024

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NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 20255 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF SUSAN LORETTA BARRY

Notice is given that William Barry, 165 Windjammer Rd., Berlin, MD 21811-1830, was on July 08, 2024 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Susan Loretta Barry who died on May 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 8th day of January, 2025.

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

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

(2) Two months after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this

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

William Barry 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: July 18, 2024

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DEMETRIOS G. KAOURIS ESQ. MCALLISTER, DETAR, SHOWALTER & WALKER

100 N. WEST ST. EASTON, MD 21601-2710

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN

HEIRS

To all persons interested in the estate of FRANK JONES AKA: FRANK LAMBRO JONES Estate No. 20261 Notice is given that ALBERT GJONI whose address is 8620 SADDLECREEK DR., BERLIN, MD 21811-3542 was on JULY 08, 2024 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of FRANK JONES who died on DECEMBER 12, 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 (or to the probate of the decedent's will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 8th day of JANUARY, 2025

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

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

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

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

SCOTT F. DIXON, ESQ.

401 FREDERICK RD., P.O. BOX 21053

BALTIMORE, MD 21228-4622

SMALL ESTATE NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE NO. 20208 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF

RICHARD TAYLOR MCGEEHAN

AKA: RICHARD T. MCGEEHAN

Notice is given that Richard Charles Reilly, 263 Federal Twist Rd., Stockton, NJ 08559-1318, was on May 20, 2024 appointed personal representative of the small estate of Richard Taylor McGeehan who died on October 29, 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.

Richard Charles Reilly 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: July 18, 2024

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

To all persons interested in the estate of MICHAEL J. IAMPIERI Estate No. 20263 Notice is given that JOHN R. IAMPIERI whose address is 10719 BISHOPVILLE RD., P.O. BOX 298, BISHOPVILLE, MD 21813-1203 was on JULY 10, 2024 appointed Personal Representative(s) of the estate of MICHAEL J. IAMPIERI who died on JUNE 13, 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 un-

enforceable thereafter.

TERRI WESTCOTT, Register of Wills for Worcester County

ONE W MARKET STREET

ROOM 102 - COURT HOUSE

SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1074

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SMALL ESTATE NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

To all persons interested in the estate of VIVIAN R. WOLF Estate No. 20267 Notice is given that JAMES JOSEPH WOLF whose address is 13 EAST WIND DR., BERLIN, MD 21811-9628 was on JULY 10, 2024 appointed Personal Representative(s) of the estate of VIVIAN R. WOLF who died on JUNE 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 shall file their objections with the Register of Wills within 30 days after the date of publication of this Notice. All persons having an objection to the probate of the will shall file their objections with the Register of Wills within six months after the date of publication of this Notice.

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

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

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

TERRI WESTCOTT, Register of Wills for Worcester County ONE W MARKET STREET ROOM 102 - COURT HOUSE SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1074 OCD-7/18/1t

MICHAEL B. MATHERS ESQ. WEBB, CORNBROOKS, WILBER, VORHIS, DOUSE & MATHERS, LLP P.O. BOX 910 115 BROAD STREET SALISBURY, MD 21803-0910

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 20276 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF LINDA HERZBERG

AKA: LINDA L. HERZBERG

Notice is given that Russell E. Harrell Sr., 36751 Baltimore Ave., Ocean View, DE 19970-3413, was on

July 15, 2024 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Linda Herzberg who died on May 20, 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 15th day of January, 2025.

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

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

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

Russell E. Harrell Sr. 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: July 18, 2024

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NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING MAYOR & COUNCIL

OF SNOW HILL, MARYLAND

TUESDAY AUGUST 13, 2024 at 7:00 PM

Pursuant to the provisions of the Snow Hill Town Charter Section 20(47) notice is hereby given that a PUBLIC HEARING is scheduled on Tuesday, August 13, 2024, at 7:00 p.m. at the meeting of the Mayor and Council of Snow Hill at the Old Fire Hall, 212 West Green Street, in Snow Hill, Maryland, 21863. The purpose of the hearing is to consider the conveyance of the following real property owned by the Town of Snow Hill and determine the property is no longer needed for public use: 1. 103 Bank Street – Tax Map 0200; Parcel 0097

The public is cordially invited to attend and offer comments. For further information concerning this public hearing, please contact the Town Manager’s Office, 103 Bank Street, Snow Hill, Maryland, 21863, #410-632-2080.

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The Gold Seal is a symbol of quality that reflects a health care organization’s commitment to providing safe and quality patient care.

The Joint Commission’s standards are developed in consultation with health care professionals and providers, measurement professionals and patients. They are informed by scientific literature and consensus from professionals to help health care organizations measure, assess, and improve performance. The surveyors also conducted onsite observations and interviews.

For more information, visit The Joint Commission website.

Big acqusition

Ocean City-based Bluewater Advisory, a leading provider of strategic advisory and organizational health services, recently announced acquisition of Premier Testing, a prominent player in behavior assessments. The acquisition marks a significant milestone as the firm enters its 15th year in business.

Premier Testing is renowned for helping companies experience higher employee engagement, increased morale and job fit, and decreased turnover through assessments and consulting. By integrating Premier Testing's capabilities into its services, Bluewater Advisory will enhance the ability to deliver end-to-end solutions that meet the evolving needs of its clients across various industries.

Bluewater Advisory and Premier Testing officials are committed to ensuring a smooth transition for employees, clients and partners.

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To learn more about Coastal Hospice, its services and ways people can donate, visit coastalhospice.org.

For more information about Bluewater Advisory and Premier Testing, visit bluewateradvisory.com.

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Property appeal process available

By Lauren Bunting Contributing Writer

(July 19, 2024) With property reassessments going out last month for much of Worcester County, property owners might be wondering what their options are if they disagree with the values the county assessment office has calculated.

Assessments are normally received every three years, and your reassessment notice shows the old market value as well as the new market value. The new value reflects the current market influences, any additions or changes to structures on the property, along with any other conditions that may be affecting the property’s value since the time of its last assessment.

Appeals may be filed on three occasions:

• Appeal on Reassessment (upon receipt of an assessment notice, which is normally every three years)

• Petition for review

• Appeal Upon Purchase (upon purchase of property between January 1 and June 30)

If you decide to appeal, the first step

is to file your appeal either online, or by replying to the Notice of Assessment by signing and returning the appeal form. Appeals must be filed within 45 days of the notice date. Depending on the volume of appeals for the jurisdiction in which the appeal is filed, every attempt is made to complete all reassessment appeals by June 1.

At the time of purchase, real estate contracts in Maryland disclose to buyers a “Property Tax Notice” disclosure that a buyer has a 60-day right of appeal to dispute the taxable assessed value.

The paragraph in the contract of sale states: “If any real property is transferred after January 1 and before the beginning of the next taxable year to a new owner, the new owner may submit a written appeal as to a value or classification on or before 60 days after the date of the transfer.”

To clarify, “the beginning of the next taxable year” is by June 30.

Property owners have the right to three different options when appealing: personal hearing, phone hearing, or written appeal. Appeals made in writing eliminate the need to attend a scheduled hearing or to call in by phone (MDAT attempts to prioritize appeals made in writing).

Property owners who live in their

home as the primary residence should remember to file for the Homestead Tax Credit. This credit is granted to owner occupied residential properties for annual assessment increases over a certain percentage. If eligible, the bill reflects this credit, but if you look up your property and don’t see the notation of Homestead on it, you should file for this option to help prevent large increases in your property tax.

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

Maryland sports betting totals up for month of June

(July 19, 2024) Maryland’s sports wagering market continues to climb, with revenue contributions to the state more than doubling last year’s total and the total handle up more than 50% for the month of June.

According to a news release from Maryland Lottery and Gaming, revenues from online and physical sports See SPORTS Page 79

SUN Bucks initiative aims to help students in summer

By Tara Fischer Staff Writer

(July 19, 2024) School-aged children in Maryland who receive free or reduced-price meals in the academic year will automatically be enrolled in the SUN Bucks program. This initiative provides low-income families with grocery money for students in the summer.

Households that qualify for the program will receive $40 each month in June, July and August for a $120 summer allowance for each eligible student. The financial assistance is meant to purchase food for the child while they are not receiving the free or reduced-priced meals they would during the school year.

According to a July 1 press release from Maryland Governor Wes Moore’s office, roughly 90% of qualifying families will automatically be enrolled in the program, provided they received reduced-price meals in the previous school year, are aged five to 18, and their family participates in SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) or Temporary Cash Assistance or is in foster care.

“SUN Bucks is a summer EBT program,” Worcester County Department of Social Services SUN Bucks Admin-

istrator Jamie Powell said. “It is going to help families, a lot who have been directly certified, granted they were approved by July 1, 2023, for free or reduced lunch or are a foster care, homeless or runaway child.”

Powell said that the venture is a permanent program through the federal government and that most children are between the ages of five and 18. However, preschoolers and 19year-olds who are still in school may also be eligible.

If the family is already participating in SNAP, the Maryland SUN Bucks money will be automatically uploaded to their EBT (Electronic Benefits Transfer) card. The governor’s press release said that a Maryland SUN Bucks card will be issued in the child’s name if they do not receive SNAP. Families that fail to meet these criteria but believe they are eligible must submit an application before August 31, 2024, to receive the benefits. Students who have transferred schools or whose parents did not apply for the Free and Reduced-Price School Meals program may fall under this umbrella. An online form can be found at https://mymdthink.maryland.gov/ho me/#/sunbucks.

Progam to help families in need

Continued from Page 78

“During the school year, many of these students will have meals taken care of,” Powell said. “That takes stress off parents’ budget for food. It’s harder in the summertime. This program will alleviate financial stress for families.”

Households that apply and are deemed eligible this year will be automatically certified for the following summer. Director at the Worcester County Department of Social Services Roberta Baldwin said the program will serve over 500,000 students statewide and approximately 3,600 in Worcester County.

“This is not a one-and-done benefit,” she noted. “This will be an ongoing support for families…This program supports our goal of trying to end childhood poverty.”

Baldwin said she wants to ensure the community is aware of the program. Those with questions can call 410-677-6800 and press three to speak with a live human at the Worcester County Department of Social Services.

Sports wagering data released

Continued from Page 77

betting generated more than $5.7 million in contributions to the state from a handle of over $384.6 million last month. Sports wagering contributions go to the Blueprint for Maryland’s Future Fund, which supports public education programs.

The total contribution to the state was the fifth-best single month total since sports betting operations began in late 2022 and more than double the $2.8 million figure recorded in June 2023. The total handle was an increase of 51.2% compared to last year’s $254.5 million total.

Ocean Downs is one of six casinos statewide that operates a physical sportsbook. Sports betting is also available online through several apps throughout Maryland.

Sports wagering data is tracked and reported based on Maryland’s fiscal year, which runs from July 1 through June 30. For the 12 months of Fiscal Year 2024, sports wagering contributed over $60.3 million to the Blueprint for Maryland’s Future Fund. Another $985,862 in expired sports wagering prizes were contributed to the state’s Problem Gambling Fund during the fiscal year.

A detailed summary of the June 2024 results for each sportsbook, including handle, hold percentage, prizes paid, promotional play, taxable win, and contribution to the state, along with a summary of statewide handle and hold by sport is available for download at mdgaming.com.

‘Runaway Bride’ anniversary run, walk event set July 27

By Tara Fischer Staff Writer

(July 19, 2024) Fans of the Julia Roberts-led and Berlin-filmed “Runaway Bride” will get the chance to participate in a Fun Run and Walk to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the movie’s release. As they race down the town streets, participants are encouraged to sport wedding and bridesmaid dresses, suits, all-white looks, and tuxedo T-shirts.

The mile-long race will be held on Saturday, July 27, at 8:15 a.m. Runners will begin on Main Street in front of the Calvin B. Taylor House Museum, pass iconic movie locations like Raynes Reef and the Atlantic Hotel and finish at the museum lawn.

Once all participants return to the Calvin B. Taylor House Museum, they can take photos and listen to hits from the movie’s soundtrack. Some attendees will receive awards and prizes.

Worcester GOLD, a nonprofit that aids low-income county residents, is the designated event charity. According to the group’s executive director, Nicholas Cranford, the run, which costs $20 to participate in, will raise funds for their Emergency Financial Assistance Program.

The initiative provides monetary

support for households experiencing an urgent need for housing, utilities, food, medicine, etc. Cranford said Worcester GOLD (Giving Other Lives Dignity) served over 1,000 families in 2023.

The idea for the fun run came from Berlin resident Theresa Gardiner.

“[Gardiner], who has a passion for fundraising, connected the dots on raising money for a worthy cause while creating a fun celebration to commemorate the filming of Runaway Bride,” Cranford noted. “She is the one who worked with the Town of Berlin and the Chief of Police to get necessary approvals.”

Gardiner contacted the Worcester GOLD director in March. The planning for the run has been ongoing ever since.

First-, second-, and third-place runners and the best-dressed group will receive prizes. Cranford said that organizers are still gathering awards. They currently have Vernon Powell gift cards, a framed photo featuring Assateague Island from Mary Fiore Photography, a basket from Skin Fitness, a Berlin-themed tote bag from Victorian Charm, a $100 Sandal’s Bridal gift card, and free gold rounds from Old Pro Golf.

“Runaway Bride,” released on July

Race to celebrate film release

30, 1999, was directed by Garry Marshal and stars Richard Gere and Julia Roberts. Paramount Pictures produced the film, turning the small quiet town of Berlin into the movie’s setting of the fictional Hale, Maryland.

“The production people flew into Salisbury and came into town on a bus and toured the town,” Ellen Lang, a former town council member, told The Dispatch in 2019. “Garry Marshal decided it was just like a Hollywood set.”

Berlin resident and real estate agent Cam Bunting told The Dispatch that while filming, she secured private homes for Gere and Joan Cusack while the director stayed at the Atlantic Hotel.

The fun run’s sponsors include Belle of the Ball Weddings, Catharsis Counseling, Thistle Wedding Event Florist, Coastal 59 Venue, Barefoot Bride Weddings, Jun and Juice, Skin Fitness, Tracks and Yaks, Poole Contracting, Ocean Pines Handyman, Sandals Bridal, Bank of Ocean City, Honey Water Candles, and Ocean City Florist.

“I only know from all of the people I’ve talked to that the filming in Berlin and other locations had a mas-

sive impact on not just Berlin but all of Worcester County,” Cranford said. “I think this area was a hidden gem unearthed around that time, and the town has exploded since then. The event celebrates this community and its successful growth without compromising its identity.”

Organizers of the “Runaway Bride” themed race expect around 150 to 200 attendees. Spectators are welcome to gather on the Calvin B. Taylor House Museum lawn to see the runners off and then return to the museum to watch them cross the finish line.

“Planning this event has allowed me to hear so many personal stories about how this film impacted the community’s people,” Cranford said. “There is a profound effect to seeing big Hollywood actors in a scene outside where you’ve had brunch.”

The Worcester GOLD director noted that participants and spectators are encouraged to visit the “Runaway Bride” filming exhibit at the Calvin B. Taylor House Museum following the event.

The deadline to enter the race is July 24 at 1 p.m. Participants can register at runsignup.com.

Ocean City Today .com

Stephen Decatur Hwy. #112 Ocean City, MD 21842 1321-B Mt. Hermon Rd. Salisbury, MD 21804 443-856-4676 Monday-Friday www.batielaw.com

State budget cuts could impact local arts

By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor

(July 19, 2024) State budget cuts approved this week are expected to impact local arts programming in Worcester County, officials say.

On Wednesday, the Maryland Board of Public Works, a three-member board consisting of the governor, comptroller and treasurer, voted to approve $148.3 million in budget reductions for fiscal year 2025. The cuts, officials report, are largely driven by an increase in healthcare and childcare spending, top priorities

for the administration.

“Revenues are relatively stagnant – and they have been for quite some time – but needs are growing,” Comptroller Brooke Lierman said.

One of the departments to be cut is the Maryland State Arts Council, which awards grants to artists and nonprofit arts organizations throughout the state. While the $437,000 cut represents a roughly 1% reduction, a concerted effort has been made at the local level to oppose the change.

“The problem is small organizations like ours depend on that fund-

ing through the arts council …,” Rina Thaler, executive director of the Art League of Ocean City and board member of Maryland Citizens for the Arts, the state’s art advocacy group, said this week. “This will affect the funding we receive for this year.”

Thaler said the reduction could have budgetary impacts for the Art League of Ocean City, which recently submitted its yearly grant application to the Maryland State Arts Council. She noted that the nonprofit receives no direct funding from the Town of Ocean City or Worcester County.

“People don’t start out at Juilliard or MoMA, they start at community organizations like ours …,” she said.

“We’re so underserved as it is on the Eastern Shore that I feel that this cut affects us more than in Baltimore County or Baltimore City, which has

such a rich arts offering.”

To that end, Thaler said she is using her connection with Maryland Citizens for the Arts, to advocate for local arts funding. She argued that the Eastern Shore is often overlooked when it comes to supporting the arts.

“This makes it even worse,” she said of the budget reduction. “There’s a smaller pool to fund from.”

The Worcester County Arts Council has also joined the campaign to preserve arts funding ahead of this week’s state board meeting. Executive Director Anna Mullis noted that thousands of letters had been sent to the governor to oppose the reduction to the Maryland State Arts Council budget.

“The Worcester County Arts Council is funded by an annual grant from the Maryland State Arts Council (MSAC). MSAC is a vital agency to

Local health funding slashed

our sector and the state, helping to contribute over $1.1 billion annually to Maryland’s economy via its investment in the arts,” she said. “This funding is a major form of support that Worcester County Arts Council depends on which allows our organization to provide much-needed community programs and services.”

Mullis said the reduction impacts an already struggling arts sector, which she said is still grappling through the effects of the COVID pandemic and inflation. She said cuts could have “devastating consequences” for her nonprofit.

“Cuts to the Maryland State Arts Council’s budget will consequently reduce the funding to the Worcester County Arts Council,” she explained. “Reducing these funds will diminish our abilities to provide grants to schools and local civic organizations, arts scholarships, and cultural community programming.”

The Maryland State Arts Council is just one of several line items to be cut within the current fiscal budget, with some of the largest reductions aimed at the University System of Maryland ($19 million) and local health departments ($12 million). The Worcester County Health Department did not return requests for comment this week.

Maryland Secretary of Budget and Management Helene Grady told the

board Wednesday the proposed reductions were the first step in an ongoing process to balance the budget, which she said focused on supporting economic growth, rebuilding the core of state government and redeploying underutilized funds.

Treasurer Dereck Davis said cutting the budget was no easy feat, adding that agencies and organizations were pitting against each other to preserve their budgets.

“Too often when we hear about deficits and budgets and so forth, people will willy nilly say ‘cut the budget …’” he said. “While it may not be important to me or you, every single dollar this state spends affects somebody.”

Representatives from state agencies set to receive budget cuts – including the Office of the Public Defender and the Rural Maryland Council – came before the board this week seeking reconsideration. Rural Maryland Council Executive Director Charlotte Davis, joined by representatives of the Regional Council and Tri-County Council, asked officials not to cut her agency’s budget by the proposed $2.25 million, or 25%.

“We have 25% of the state’s population and represent 1.7 million Marylanders, and we felt like we have been doing a great job with our programs,” she said. “We do the most with the least amount.”

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Youth fishing contest

The Ocean Pines Anglers Club will host its 28th Art Hansen Memorial Youth Fishing Contest on Saturday, July 20, at the South Gate Pond at Veterans Park in Ocean Pines.

Registration is from 8:30-9:30 a.m., and the contest will be from 910:30 a.m. Participating youths should bring their own rods and reels.

Bait is provided. There will be three age groups: 4 to 7, 8 to 11 and 12 to 16. A trophy will be awarded for the biggest fish in each age group with special awards for the top three. Grand Prize awards will be a Mike Vitak custom rod and reel and a fishing trip aboard the Angler. Children younger than age 4 can fish but will not be eligible for trophies.

The event is free and all registrants will receive a prize, compliments of the Anglers Club and the Ocean City/Berlin Optimist Club.

Book signings

Part-time Ocean Pines resident and author Mary K. Tilghman recently launched her new romance, “Step into the Sunlight,” set in Ocean City, at the Greyhound indie bookstore in Berlin, and will be hosting more upcoming book signings.

The next signing will be held from 6-7:30 p.m., Aug. 11, at the Bethany Beach Books in Bethany Beach. After that, Tilghman will participate in a multi-author signing with rmamgtic suspense authors Nonna Henry, a Berlin resident, and Kristie Wolf on Sept. 14 at Caprichos Books in Ocean Pines.

“Step into the Sunlight” is a story

about family legacies, the need to be recognized for one’s talents, and the triumph of love, all set against the summer backdrop of the Ocean City Boardwalk.

Tilghman, a journalist and travel writer in Maryland for 40 years, is a part-time resident of Ocean Pines. Her works include a half-dozen Frommer’s guides, as well as historical novels and love stories, all with ties to Maryland, Delaware and Virginia.

For more information, visit maryktilghmanwrites.com.

State fair jobs

Anyone interested in helping put on this year’s Maryland State Fair is invited to attend a job fair set from 3-7 p.m., July 30, at the state fairgrounds exhibition hall.

A variety of job opportunities will be available during the fair, which is set

for three weekends — Aug. 22-25, Aug. 29-Sept. 2 and Sept. 5-8.

Applicants must be at least 18 years old and bring a passport of valid photo identification, such as a driver’s license, and social security card to the fair. All applicants applying for security jobs must also have a Security Guard Certification card issued by the Maryland State Police.

Job opportunities include admission ticket booth sales, food service, parking, security and souvenir sales.

For more information, visit MarylandStateFair.com/Employment.

Summer fundraiser

With reggae music by Island Sounds, the Historic Germantown School's summer fundraiser is set from 6-9 p.m., Saturday, July 20, at 10223 Trappe Road in Berlin.

Attendees are encouraged to bring chairs, coolers, and picnic baskets and enjoy a night of fun on the lawn. Tickets are $10 at the gate. Hot dogs, soda and chips are available for $5 while supplies last.

For more information, call 410641-0638 or email germantownschool@gmail.com.

Art league performances

The Art League of Ocean is hosting “Originals Only,” an evening of live musical performances, stand-up comedy, and author readings from 6-8 p.m., Saturday, July 20.

The event is free and takes place at the Ocean City Center for the Arts at 502 94th St., bayside.

The line-up of talent who will perform includes comedian Josh Quillen, the band Parkers Garden, writer Sherri Bale, and musicians eScape hAtch and Dungeons & Rabbits.

Snacks and mocktails will be available.

More information can be found at OCart.org/events or by calling 410524-9433.

Film showing

The Lower Shore Land Trust, Delmarva Restoration and Conservation Network, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and USDA are collaborating to host a showing of an award-winning film, “Delmarva and the Ground for Change” from 3-6 p.m., July 25, at the

Marva Theater in Pocomoke.

Farmers around the Chesapeake and Delaware bays are leaders in environmental stewardship and practices that protect and promote healthy soils. The practices also safeguard working lands against extremes posed by climate change.

The film follows three different family-owned farming operations on the Delmarva Peninsula who all care about and depend on soil. It focuses on ways farmers around Delmarva are implementing sustainable practices and trying to adapt to landscape change.

The film will be followed by a “Listen & Learn” Q&A with local farmers. Refreshments and popcorn will be provided.

Register online at delmarvarcn.org/events or call the Lower Shore Land Trust at 443-2345587.

Christmas in July

The Christmas in July, Fourth Friday Street Festival season continues from 5-8 p.m., Friday, July 26, in Downtown Pocomoke.

The block party-style street festival will take place within the two blocks of Market Street between Front and Second streets.

Local artists and vendors will fill the sidewalks of Market Street to sell paintings, photography, jewelry, bath and body products, home decor, fashion, plants, and more. Participating businesses and restaurants will stay open during event hours.

For the Christmas in July theme, Children can enjoy special holiday themed activities with an appearance by Scootin’ Santa. Visit the festival sponsor, the Christmas Sweet, for specialty treats and beverages.

There will also be food sales, snow cones, wine, and local craft beer from Pocomoke’s newest business, Cypress Roots Brewing Company.

Live music will be provided by Union Road.

In the event of rain, the street festival will be canceled and resume on the fourth Friday of the following month.

For more information, visit the Downtown Pocomoke Association Facebook page, downtownpocomoke.com or call Pocomoke City Hall at 410-957-1333 x111.

Opinions

County deserves break on loan

The Worcester County Commissioners are hoping common sense will prevail when the state Department of Housing and Community Development considers their request to be spared from having to meet the terms of a loan issued unwisely 16 years ago.

The term “unwisely” is appropriate in that the state office gave the county $525,000 in 2008 to develop a restaurant in Pocomoke City that would create 35 full-time, year-round jobs. Another stipulation was that 18 of these positions would go to low and moderate income employees.

Filling half the staff positions with people who are unemployed or under-employed is one thing, but reaching the total number of jobs required would be a different matter.

Starting a restaurant from scratch is hard, but guaranteeing its success by betting against all the circumstances beyond anyone’s control is illogical.

Veteran restaurateurs in Ocean City, for instance, know all about that. Beyond covering the basics, such as supplying a good product at an acceptable price, restaurant operators must deal with the vagaries of the weather, volatility in the regional and local economies, and shifting market preferences.

Any one of these last three factors can be ruinous to any established business if it can’t adapt to meet the need. Add to that the inflexibility of having to carry a certain number of people on staff, and that’s a recipe for trouble.

Besides, a restaurant with a full-time staff of 35 is a goodsized business in these parts if it isn’t seasonal, which should make anyone wonder how this grant got approved in the first place.

This isn’t knock on the folks who run the business, but is a complaint about the unrealistic expectations that were nevertheless deemed acceptable in the beginning.

For that reason alone, the state should agree that it shouldn’t have made this investment in the first place and cut the county a break.

PUBLIC EYE

Smokey Bear at 80

By Stewart Dobson

Smokey Bear, who’s informally referred to as Smokey THE Bear, will turn 80 on Aug. 9 this year. Aside from his age qualifying him as presidential material, we wanted to know how he feels about passing this milestone and what he’s been up to these last several years. Herewith is our interview with the bear himself.

year to take care of business. You’d be grumpy too.

NEWS

EDITOR STEWART DOBSON; EXECUTIVE EDITOR STEVE GREEN

ASSOCIATE EDITOR BETHANY HOOPER

DIGITAL EDITOR MALLORY PANUSKA AMES

STAFF WRITERS TARA FISCHER, ANNA WILLIAMS

Contact News Room: editor@oceancitytoday.net

SALES

ACCOUNT MANAGERS MARY COOPER, TERRI FRENCH, RENEE KELLY

CLASSIFIEDS/LEGALS PAMELA GREEN

Contact Sales: sales@oceancitytoday.net

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ART DIRECTOR COLE GIBSON; SENIOR PAGE DESIGNER SUSAN PARKS

SENIOR AD DESIGNER KELLY BROWN

ADMINISTRATION

PUBLISHER/CONTROLLER CHRISTINE BROWN

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Smokey: Before you even ask, let me be clear: I am not and will not run for president as a compromise candidate, when there are so many others available who are more compromised than I. Although if I did run and win, I would be the only one who could give an inaugural address wearing nothing but a hat. At least, “knowingly” wearing nothing but a hat. We oldsters tend to forget things. Remember last year when Sen. Mitch McConnell froze in the middle of a sentence? Here’s what really happened. Suddenly it struck him: ‘Did I remember to wear pants?’

Interviewer: OK, Smokey, how about ... Smokey: Secondly, Mr. Wordsmith, I did not “pass” a milestone, which would hurt, I “reached” a milestone.

Interviewer: You’re right, Smokey, but ... Smokey: It’s “Mr. Bear” to you, sonny. Interviewer: Fine. So, Mr. Bear, what is the biggest change you’ve experienced as you’ve reached this golden age?

Smokey: Other than an increasing desire to drive in the left lane or stand in the middle of the grocery store aisle looking around like it’s the seventh wonder of the world? That would be hibernation. It’s not what it used to be. Your “night,” is what, six or seven hours? My “night,” is five months long. Five. Months. Long. Do you know what that means? It means I got up 608 times in one night last

Interviewer: Yeah, I would imagine. I guess that means you’re no longer out there on the fire line when something big happens. Smokey: On the fire line? Are you crazy? Let me repeat, “Only YOU can prevent wildfires.” Note that I did not say, “Only YOU and I can prevent wildfires. It’s a full body hair problem as in fire versus hair. In other words, I’d rather be called Smokey Bear than Frizzy Bear or Bear Naked or something.”

Interviewer: Oh, I never thought of that. Smokey: That’s right, you didn’t. Nobody ever thinks of my needs. People think, “Yep, old Smokey’s out there on the fire line with his shovel and his tiny hat.” Do I get any kind of protective gear at all? I do not. I get a stupid shovel and size seven hat for my size 25 head. What’s that? I wear pants too? Nope. That’s just for the posters. You know, have to keep it clean for the kids. You’ll also notice the poster shows me with thumbs, which, alas, I also do not have. You try zipping up pants without thumbs and see how far you get.

Interviewer: I’m sorry I asked. You really are grumpy. But surely, in the course of your 80 years, the government has done something special for you.

Smokey: Yeah, they passed the Smokey Bear Act in 1952. I was only 8 years old. Otherwise, I’d have made sure it did more for me than just protect my name and image.

Interviewer: Like what?

Smokey: Like indoor plumbing. You know the expression involving where bears go? Well, you’d be grumpy too, if you found yourself saying for the 608th time, I’ll be back in a minute, I gotta go out in the woods again.”

Between the Lines

By Steve Green

An issue worth monitoring on Assateague Island is last weekend’s World War II ordnance discovery that resulted in a portion of the beach being closed while it was destroyed.

On Sunday, a former military explosive was found on the beach on the federal side. An area of the beach was subsequently closed, and a few hours later the ordnance fragment was blown up in a controlled demolition. This is nothing new for Assateague, as the U.S. Navy used the island for missile testing for about six years from 1945-1951. Prior to completing the initiative, the Navy reportedly gathered the pieces of ordnances and buried them offshore in pits. Island migration and natural effects have resulted over time in ordnances being uncovered from the pits and discovered by beachgoers. The thought is these former explosives are no longer a danger, but precautions are always taken when located.

The hope here is the fragment discovered last weekend is not the first of more to come as was the case in August of 2022 when the popular North Ocean Beach area on the federal side was closed for days at the height of the season. The difference two years ago was about a dozen fragments were found in a short period of time in a contained area. At the time, Assateague officials cited a major spring nor’easter disturbing the seafloor and uncovering some buried ordnances from the pits, resulting in them washing ashore. Out of an abundance of caution, professionals were called to locate the devices and remove them, but it was in the peak season and less than ideal for Assateague officials who were scrambling through logistics.

During the summer months, the emergency call volume around here is tremendous, and you don’t need a home scanner any longer to follow them. Multiple websites and social media pages are available to get instant details on unfolding situations. A case in point is a scary situation that unfolded last week at Frontier Town.

Cenzy is a young child battling Tay-Sachs, a rare genetic disorder resulting in the destruction of nerve cells within the brain and spinal cord and associated with seizures, hearing loss and an inability to move, according to web searches. The disorder is complicated and life altering for the individual as well as the family. Last week after arriving for a camping vacation at Frontier Town 8-year-old Cenzy reportedly went into cardiac arrest resulting in her mom providing CPR on site. Paramedics from the Berlin Fire Company and deputies from the Worcester County Sheriff’s Office arrived on the scene and Maryland State Police Aviation was alerted for a transport to Nemours Children’s Hospital in Wilmington. From updates posted online, the situation appeared grave initially and certainly the 36-minute flight from the campground to Wilmington hospital was traumatic for the family. It seems the work on the ground by the paramedics stabilized her and her condition improved to stable on the flight to Delaware.

A post from Cenzy’s Corner, a Facebook page that provides updates on the child, gave some insights and details into the situation. It read, “Last week at this time we were packing up to leave for our camping trip for the week, little did we know how that day would end. Just as we pulled into our campsite, unloaded the golf cart and I went back to check Cenzy in the car with Bianka. Kris had went to drop our trailer off in the over flow parking. Bianka noticed her color was off and her vent started alarming around then. Her pulse ox monitor was picking up nothing. I immediately got out went to Cenzys door felt for a pulse and started CPR. Her sister was quickly at my side calling 911 while I did compressions. Once the sheriffs and EMTs got there we got her out and Bianka had layed out blankets on the ground for her. They continued CPR and were able to bring her back after about 20-30 min. Maryland state police then thankfully flew her to DuPont. In route Cenzy was already moving her eyes and arms at her usual as well as breathing with and over her vent with no extra oxygen or help. We spent a few days in ICU and are now on the main floor. They did see some possible damage to her bowels so she has been on bowel rest and has a PICC line to receive TPN (nutrition) we are not using her regular feeding tube for now. Tomorrow we will recheck her bowels with a X-ray and go from there hoping the damage has resolved. Huge thank you to the Frontier Town staff for checking on her and helping our family that day.”

Kudos to all the first responders and physicians involved in this traumatic situation.

Majdanek went from labor camp to ‘The Final Solution’

By Peter Ayers Wimbrow III Contributing Writer

This week, 80 years ago, hardened veterans of the Red Army discovered something that shook even them. For three years they had been fighting the Germans and had seen, and experienced, German brutality. They had seen the atrocities committed against their fellow soldiers, the rape of their women, the executions of their Jewish neighbors and the torture of the Partisans. Nothing prepared them for what they saw this week, 80 years ago, at Majdanek.

Majdanek was a German concentration camp located two miles from the 1,400-year-old Polish city of Lublin. Today Lublin has a population of 350,000, making it the ninth largest city in the country and the largest Polish city east of the Vistula River. At the beginning of the war, its population was 122,000, almost half of which was Jewish.

Originally, the camp was established as a labor camp. That changed with the implementation of Aktion Reinhardt, on the order of SS-Reichsführer Heinrich Himmler, on Oct. 13, 1941. Aktion Reinhardt was to implement “The Final Solution” to the

“Jewish problem,” and was named for the late Reinhard Heydrich, who had been assassinated in Prague.

Subsequently, Majdanek functioned as a sorting and storage depot for property and valuables taken from the victims of other killing centers, but it also murdered as well. It is estimated that, at least, 59,000 were murdered at the camp, which began operation in September 1942. The high-water mark occurred on Nov. 3, 1943 when 18,400 Jews were killed on a single day. By May of 1943, Majdanek was using Zyklon-B gas in its extermination efforts.

With units of the Third Belorussian Front, commanded by Ivan Chernyakhovsky, rapidly approaching, the camp commandant, SS Obersturmbannführer Arthur Liebehenschel ordered the camp evacuated and the evidence destroyed. He left that task to his incompetent and lethargic second-in-command, SS Obersturmführer Anton Thernes.

Gen. Chernyakhovsky, who was born in the Ukraine, was the youngest general, and the highest ranking Jewish officer, in the Red

Continued on Page 88

Army. He was also the first Soviet general to enter German territory.

On July 24, 1944, the Red Army stumbled onto Majdanek, which still contained about 1,500 inmates. Most of them were Soviet POWs or Polish peasants. The incompetent Thernes and his assistant, SS Hauptsturmführer Wilhelm Gerstenmeier, were arrested, with four others. Their trial began on Nov. 27, 1944, before the Special Penal Court in Lublin. On Dec. 2, 1944, they were convicted and sentenced to die. All, except Edmund Pohlmann, who had committed suicide that night, were executed the next day at the prison camp by hanging.

At the time, no one in the world had any idea that the Germans were killing on an industrial scale. The Soviets published the first story, by war correspondent Konstantin Simonov,

in the Red Army newspaper Red Star, on Aug. 10, 1944. Even with the accompanying photos, it was too incredible for most to comprehend.

The next day, Soviet photographer Roman Karmen wrote an account of what he had seen, which was translated into English and published in The Daily Worker, the newspaper of the U.S. Communist Party. Most didn’t believe it, thinking that this, like other Soviet stories about German atrocities, was merely more anti-German Soviet propaganda.

On Aug. 13, 1944, the Los Angeles Times reprinted the Daily Worker story, but with a disclaimer that the source was Russian and had not been verified by Americans, inferring that it was not to be trusted.

It was not until Aug. 28, when Life Magazine, finally, published the Soviet photos that the American public saw them. Americans began to com-

prehend the horror of the Nazi regime when the New York Times, finally, published an article by William Lawrence, recounting what he had seen after being allowed to visit the camp. Even then, the British would not publish a story by the BBC’s own Alexander Werth, because, “...they

thought it was a Russian propaganda stunt!”

But, as Russian-born Werth said, for the Soviets, this discovery was, “... staggering. It brought into sharper focus ... the real nature, scope and consequences of the Nazi regime in

Continued on Page 89

SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH

What was once the barracks for Majdanek, a German-operated concentration camp two miles from Poland, is pictured.

Continued from Page 88

action.” For two months after the discovery, Simonov published accounts in the “Polish Jewish Observer,” chronicling, “... the wholesale extermination of the Jewish population ....”

The camp was initially called Concentration Camp at Lublin. Later it was changed to Prisoner of War Camp at Lublin. In February 1943, its name reverted to Concentration Camp. Its first “guests” were Soviet POWs. Its first Jewish “guests” came from Slovakia. They were followed by Jews from the Czech Protectorate.

Most of the Jews came from Poland. Unlike at many of the other camps, there was no railroad spur bringing the new guests directly into their new home. Rather, they were disembarked at the main railway station in Lublin and then transported by truck to the camp.

The camp’s first Commandant was Karl Otto Koch. He had been commandant at Buchenwald and had been sent to Majdanek as punishment for nonpayment of taxes. While at Majdanek, he was charged with taking bribes from Jewish prisoners at Buchenwald and ordering the murder of two Buchenwald prisoners. He was convicted and sentenced to death. The sentence was carried out in April 1945.

In August of 1944, the Soviet Union decided to make the Majdanek Camp into a museum. The museum was established in November of that year and became the first such museum. The Soviets also produced the first film about a concentration camp — “Majdanek, Cemetery of Europe.”

After things got settled in that area, the Soviets returned the camp to its original use, only this time, holding members of the Polish Home Army (Armia Krajowa), the Polish resistance forces. They were considered “enemies of the [new] state.”

There were two more “Majdanek Trials.” The first was also held in Poland over two years, with 95 defendants, seven of whom received the death penalty, one of whom was Liebehenschel. The “Third Majdanek Trial” was held in Düsseldorf, Germany, where 16 defendants were tried, beginning Nov. 26, 1975 and spanning six years. At its conclusion, on June 30, 1981, half were convicted and given sentences ranging from three to 12 years.

In October 2017, a 96-year-old resident of Frankfurt was charged with accessory to murder, while serving as a guard at the camp between August 1943 and January 1944.

Next week: Tinian 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.

OBITUARIES

JOHN ROBERT BOWER

Ocean Pines

John Robert Bower, M.D., 83, passed away on Friday, July 12, 2024, at The Macky & Pam Stansell House in Ocean Pines.

Born in Reading, Pennsylvania, he was the son of the late John R. Bower, M.D., and Haidee Wilson Bower.

Dr. Bower was a graduate of Reading High School, Haverford College, and Jefferson Medical College in Philadelphia.

His professional life was dedicated to bringing joy into the world in private practice as an ob/gyn in Wyomissing, Pennsylvania. He was the chief of gynecology at the Reading

Hospital and Medical Center and a past president of the Berks County Medical Society.

In his free time, he was a competitive powerlifter and enjoyed deep sea fishing, golf, bridge, and reading. He was a cherished member of the Wicomico River Friends Meeting of the Religious Society of Friends in Salisbury.

He is survived by his loving wife, Jill Bower; sons John Bower (Amy) and William Bower (Julie); brothers Edward Bower, M.D. (Angela) and James Bower (Joyce); and grandchildren Andrew Bower, Estella Bower and Zachary Bower.

Cremation followed his death. A private family service will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the Wicomico River Friends Meeting,

519 Dykes Road, Salisbury, MD 21804, or The Macky and Pam Stansell House of Coastal Hospice, 1500 Ocean Parkway, Berlin, MD 21811.

Letters of condolence can be sent to the family via burbagefuneralhome.com. Arrangements are in care of The Burbage Funeral Home in Berlin.

NORMA LEE HUDSON

Ocean City

Norma Lee Hudson, 91, of Ocean City, died Saturday, July 6, 2024 at home.

She was born in Bishopville, and was the daughter of the late Herman D. Cropper and Pauline (Lynch) Cropper.

She is survived by a daughter, Lisa L. Webb of Ocean City; a son, Robert Continued on Page 90

John R. Bower

OBITUARIES

Continued from Page 89

W. Hudson Jr. and his wife Carolyn of Berlin; a sister, Paula Powell and husband Donald; five grandchildren, Maggie Kellagher, Shane Kellangher, Joshua Clark, Alex Hudson and Matthew Hudson; and ten greatgrandchildren.

No formal services are scheduled at this time.

In lieu of flowers, donations in her memory may be made to the Ocean Pines Library, 11107 Cathell Road, Ocean Pines, MD 21811.

Condolences may be sent by visiting bishophastingsfh.com.

JOHN HOOD

Ocean City

It is with profound sadness that we share the passing of our beloved father, John Hood. He left us on July 3, 2024, at the age of 91. John was born in Colver Pennsylvania, Sept. 9, 1932, and his family eventually moved to Washington, D.C., where he finished school and entered the work force. A proud veteran, he served his country as a member of the U.S. Air Force. After retiring from the printing industry, he retired to Ocean City.

John is survived by his loving wife

of 65 years, Barbara Musslewhite Hood; his son, Joseph Arthur Hood (wife Cathie Polcen); daughter Carole Hood Purdue (husband Edward Purdue); daughter Helen Marie Hood and daughter Linda Hood Goucher (husband Darwin). John is also survived by grandchildren and great-grandchildren: Gregory Micheal Hood (wife Meridith Hill), Lindsey Hood Oba (husband Manny Oba), Ryan Edward Purdue, Gina Marie Purdue, John (Jack) Edward Purdue, Calvin Nathan Martin, Jeremy Goucher (wife Jennifer), Jimmy Goucher, Jason Goucher, Jordan Goucher; and great-grandchildren Noah Martin, Nathan Martin, J.D. Malden and Madysen Malden.

He was preceded in death by his parents, John Tate Hood and Leeta Lamer Hood; and brothers George and Robert Hood.

John was a man of immense kindness and wisdom, cherishing every moment spent with his loved ones. John will be remembered as a man of generosity and thoughtfulness, ready to help family and friends without hesitation.

He was always an active and attentive father, grandfather and greatgrandfather, attending games, celebrations and milestones throughout the generations. Jack loved the timeless game of golf for most of his

John Hood

OBITUARIES

adult life, passing the love of the game on to his family.

A private service will be held at a later date, followed by interment at Eastern Shore Veterans Cemetery in Hurlock.

Letters of condolence can be sent to the family via burbagefuneralhome.com. Arrangements are in the care of The Burbage Funeral Home.

JOAN BERNICE SCRUDATO

Ocean Pines

Joan Bernice Scrudato, 85, of Ocean Pines, passed away after a long illness on Tuesday July 9, 2024.

She was the loving wife to her husband of 66 years, John Scrudato.

Joan is survived by her husband John; and her children Christopher Scrudato (Kirstin), Kenneth Scrudato and Suzanne Sampson (John); as well as six grandchildren, Matthew Scrudato, Brianna Talbert (Corey), Tyler Scrudato (Cassidy), Danielle Sampson, Nicholas Sampson and Stephanie Sampson; and three great-grandchildren, James Scrudato, Banks Talbert and Brooks Talbert.

She will be remembered for her intelligence, kindness, generous spirit, and for the love she had in abundance for family and friends.

She was born February 23, 1939, in Montclair, New Jersey, to Catherine and Edmond Laskowski, and later graduated from Battin High School in Elizabeth, New Jersey.

After a memorable first date — he picked her up in a 1950 convertible — she married John Scrudato in 1958, and raised three children as a stay-athome mom.

Then in 1974, she enrolled at Middlesex College, seeking an education that would lead to new professional opportunities. She would go on to be inducted into the Phi Theta Kappa National Honor Society, and ultimately graduate with an associates degree in business man-

agement.

In 1981, she started a temporary job at Merck Pharmaceuticals that quickly led to a permanent position in the company’s purchasing department. She would enjoy a more than 20-year long and successful career there, before retiring in 2002.

After more than six decades of living in New Jersey, she and John moved to a new home in Ocean Pines in 2004 to enjoy their retirement.

In her free time, Joan enjoyed spending time with family, fishing (she was an expert at cleaning fish), traveling, reading, crocheting and baking.

A Mass of Christian Burial was held at 10 a.m., Monday, July 15, at Holy Savior Catholic Church, 1705 Philadelphia, Ave. in Ocean City. A visitation was offered from 5-7 p.m., Sunday July 14, at The Burbage Funeral Home in Berlin.

Condolences may be shared with the family via burbagefuneralhome.com. Arrangements are in the care of The Burbage Funeral Home.

LILLIAN MAY LOUISE LASHINE WESS

KERN

West Ocean City

Lillian May Louise Lashine Wess Kern, known mostly commonly as “Pat” Wess, 98, was the daughter of Ruth Lashine and Philip Lashine of Baltimore. She was born March 17,

1926, and died July 5, 2024.

She was a sports fanatic, having won a bamboo ocean sport fishing rod in Ocean City as a teenager. A lasting image of my mother casting into the surf in Ocean City will remain with me. In her late 90s, she knew as much about sports as anyone in her family.

Her mother, Ruth, was a fiercely independent person, attending Mass every day and building B-25 bombers for Glen L. Martin. She is descended from the Sanborn’s of New England, for which a town is named in New Hampshire and the Patchs, New England ship captains. This independence and hard work carried Pat throughout her life, as was common of her generation that survived the Great Depression and World War II.

Pat sent her children, Bernard Patrick Wess Jr. and the late Eric Christopher Wess, to military school and they came home one day to find the TV in the trash. Their mother said there was nothing to watch but “junk.” Once, at a Sunday Mass in Baltimore’s Cathedral, in the middle of the Archbishop’s sermon on the need for support of the Vietnam War, she, all 4 feet, 11 inches, marched down the main aisle, her high heels clicking on the marble on her way out the door, bringing silence to the cathedral. This fierce independence carries through to her great-grand-

children.

She used her knowledge and focus to rise from being a teacher in the Baltimore Catholic School system to become the chief librarian of Baltimore City’s 100 public schools after graduating from the College of Notre Dame and the School of Library Sciences at the University of Maryland.

She married the late Bernard P. Wess Sr. after he returned from World War II and after his death in 1977, married a family friend, the late Frederick Kern Sr. He had two children, Fred Sr. and his brother. After the death of Fred Kern, she moved to Ocean City and built a house near Assawoman Bay in West Ocean City, in which she resided until her death.

She is survived by family in Ocean City, including Debby Wess, who cared for her later in her life; and her grandchildren and great-grandchildren; also by her family in Needham Heights and Westborough, Massachusetts — the children and grandchildren of Bernard P. Wess Jr. It’s been said parents don’t want justice, they want peace and quiet. For the last 40 years of her life, she enjoyed living in her house watching sports from all over the world and asking only for peace and quiet. She has it now and thus her services will be private.

$1,595.

Joan B. Scrudato

Tuna tourney pays out $648K in winnings

By Anna Williams Staff Writer

(July 19, 2024) Despite challenging weather conditions including rain and rough seas offshore, the 37th Annual OC Tuna Tournament proved to be a success. This year, 51 boats vied for a total prize pool of $648,270. Weigh-ins were hosted at the Ocean City Fishing Center from July 12-14.

On day one, 25 boats braved the weather offshore. Cabana came in the lead with the heaviest tuna stringer, weighing at 218 pounds. Additionally, Shorebilly caught the heaviest single bluefin tuna at 168 pounds.

In spite of the rain, day two brought more lines out and bites for anglers offshore. Thirty-two boats went out, and Cabana and Shorebilly remained number one on the leaderboard for heaviest stringer and heaviest single. Reel Naughty secured the tournament’s first-place dolphin at 28 pounds. For the ladies’ category, Back in Black brought in the second-place ladies’ tuna with a 35-pound catch.

By day three, skies cleared and the sun finally came out, encouraging fortysix boats to go out and shake up the leaderboard. Shotski claimed first place for the heaviest tuna stringer weighing an impressive 412.5 pounds worth $171,700. Wrecker landed the firstplace bigeye tuna single at 191.5 pounds worth $198,475 as well as the first-place ladies’ tuna at 39 pounds worth $2,000 Full division results were as follows:

Tuna-Single:

1st place: Wrecker, 191.5 lbs, $198,475

2nd place: Shorebilly, 168 lbs, $34,170

3rd place: Primary Search, 167.5 lbs, $19,540

Tuna-Stringer:

1st place: Shotski, 412.5 lbs, $171,700

2nd place: Charlies Plunder, 358.5 lbs, $8,520

3rd place: Wrecker, 348 lbs, $16,165

Dolphin:

1st place: Reel Naughty, 28 lbs, $21,450

Ladies:

1st place: Wrecker, 39 lbs, $2,000

2nd place: Back in Black, 35lbs, $1,500

Wrecker was the top earner of the tournament, taking home $216,640. Compared to last year’s results, Cabana dominated in 2023, winning $495,000 for the first-place tuna single and tuna stringer. The 2023 Tuna Tournament had a greater turnout of seventy-four boats registered and a much higher payout of $990,570.

Softball teams converge on shore

(July 19, 2024) The United States Specialty Sports Association’s (USSSA) Eastern Nationals got underway this week and runs through Aug. 3.

The three-week event will bring roughly 350 girls softball teams from 16 states to Wicomico and Worcester Counties and Ocean City.

The tournament will generate an estimated economic impact of $16.7 mil-

SURF REPORT

lion.

The success of the event is due in part to the Mid-Atlantic Amateur Sports Alliance (MAASA), a formal sports marketing partnership between Ocean City, Wicomico County and Worcester County.

“Our partnership with MAASA is vital to large-scale tournaments like the Eastern Nationals that have ex-

panded beyond Wicomico County’s borders,” said Justin Polizzi, tourism manager for Wicomico County. “We’re also thankful for support from the community and local businesses,” said Polizzi.

Opening ceremonies took place July 16 at Salisbury University and with another opening planned for July 23 in Ocean City.

Assateague offers surf alternative

By Dave Dalkiewicz Contributing Writer

(July 19, 2024) Seeking an alternative surfing area? Look to the south. Ocean City is quite the popular place, especially during the summer months and certainly when the weather is so hot and humid. But there’s another local beach area that is also very popular. It’s everything that OC is, minus the development. There are no hotels, motels, high rise condominiums or long Boardwalk commerce. Instead there are wild ponies, miles and miles of open beach, a state park and a national park. It’s just south of OC via Route 611. We’re talk-

ing here about Assateague Island. Assateague Island starts just across the Ocean City Inlet but access by road requires a short trip down the aforementioned Route 611.

The island use to be a bit of a secret but these days it can become as crowded as its cousin to the north, though once on the island a person or a group can get off to themselves if they are willing to hike up or down the beach. Granted, some forethought would be advisable in carrying any beach or water gear but the idea is that Assateague has been left in its natural state.

As was referred to, there is no development except for toilets, showers, and changing facilities. What is available, though, are camping areas in both the state and national parks.

Sites are available for tents, trailers, and recreational vehicles. These camping sites have become so popular that reservations, well in advance, are highly recommended. For those making the trek for the day or a few hours, parking is available.

For the surfer plenty of area is available. Unlike most of OC, waves will break far off the beach. Of course, enough swell has to be present along with favorable wind and tide for surfable waves.

For better or worse, beach replenishment is not an issue on Assateague Island. The island is all about being left to the vagaries of a barrier island which it most certainly is. There’s no doubt that we’re fortunate and blessed to have an area such as Assateague Island.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF FISH IN OC

The team on the Wrecker, left, was the top winner in this year’s tournament, winning a total of $216,640 for largest tuna (191.5 pounds) and first place in the ladies division. Above right, the Shotski crew won $171,700 for a stringer of 412.5 pounds.

FISH IN OC WITH SCOTT LENOX

PHOTOS COURTESY OF FISH IN OC

Captain Andrew Dotterweich of the Fish On put this group, above left, on six white marlin releases. Above right, this young lady was all smiles after this stud sea bass came over the rail of the Morning Star with Captain Monty Hawkins.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF FISH IN OC

This nice flounder, above left, was caught on board the Ocean Princess with Captain Victor Bunting at the helm. Above middle, Captain Tony Battista of Saltwater Adventures put his wife Anita and Bella on four keeper flounder from the Route 50 Bridge. Above right, this group had four keeper flounder on board the Lucky Break with Captain Jason Mumford. Below left, Captain Dave Caffrey of On the Run put this group on a keeper flounder and some “snapper” bluefish. Below middle, Captain Marc Spagnola of Dusk to Dawn Bowfishing had a good day and night putting his shooters on target with the rays. Below right, the Swain team caught a nice 7-pound flounder good for first place in the Paradise Grill Bay Flounder Tournament and a check for over $26,000.