7/26/2024 OC Today-Dispatch

OC Today-Disp a a County govt. scammed

Texas man ropes in treasurer’s office for $167K

as part of multi-million dollar

nationwide fraud

Worcester officials report incidents occurred four years ago and involved 12 payments of varying amounts to bogus bank accounts for work fraudster attributed to real county vendors. Eighty percent of the money has been recovered. — Page 10

Ruby Lilley, OC’s own, skates into Olympics

She started in resort’s Ocean Bowl skate park, greatly increased her skills in California, and now goes on world stage in Paris. — Page 3

Parents decry lack of info in daycare case

Contend they learned too little too late as state and sheriff investigated charges of abuse at Berlin Activities Depot — Page 20

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OC native heads to Summer Olympics for skateboarding

By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor

(July 26, 2024) A world-ranked skateboarder representing the United States at this year’s Summer Olympics honed her craft as a child in Ocean City.

When the Paris Games begin this week, Maryland will be well represented by a number of athletes, including Ocean City native Ruby Lilley, 17, who will be competing in the women’s park skateboarding event for Team USA. While her passion for the sport precipitated her move to California in 2018, she said this week she doesn’t forget the place where it all began.

“From growing up at a small skate park on the East Coast, to moving to California to compete in these big con-

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tests, to going to the Olympics, I would have to say that working hard seriously pays off more than anything,” she said, “and doing what you truly love and following your heart will get you there.”

Lilley said her love of skateboarding began at the Ocean Bowl Skate Park, where she spent hours teaching herself the sport. She said her background in ballet and competitive ballroom dancing, and eagerness to follow in her brothers’ footsteps, helped pave the way for what would become her passion.

“I always looked up to my brothers,” she said. “When my brothers started doing ballroom dancing, I always just wanted to do what they did, so I started ballroom dancing. Then I did

Before moving to California with her family, Ruby Lilley is pictured learning her craft at the Ocean Bowl Skate Park on 3rd Street.

PHOTOS COURTESY CHAUNCEY RHODES

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By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor

(July 26, 2024) The Ocean City Fire Department (OCFD) reports an outage affecting fire alarms appears to be resolved this week following a global software-update malfunction that disrupted airports, businesses, hospitals and emergency call centers last Friday.

In the hours following a CrowdStrike update that led to widespread computer outages, the Ocean City Fire Department released a statement last Friday acknowledging related issues with fire alarm systems. During the outage, systems with a telecommunications interface did not automatically dial 911 when activated.

“It is unknown how many buildings were impacted by the outage,” OCFD Community Engagement Officer Ryan Whittington said this week. “However, our Fire Marshal Quality Assurance Program annually ensures the inspections of over 1,000 fire alarm systems, many of which were likely affected by the outage.”

While issues have since been corrected, the fire department reported last Friday that numerous buildings in the city outfitted with such fire alarm systems could experience outages related to the system’s telecommunications interface. While the issue didn’t appear to affect fire detectors, horns or strobes, it did appear to affect systems

See OUTAGE Page 12

Worcester County scammed for $167,745

fice, which provided $167,745 to a bank account he controlled.

of bank accounts and shell companies to conceal transactions.

By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor

(July 26, 2024) A Texas man pleaded guilty last week to international money laundering conspiracy for his role in scamming several victims, including the Worcester County Treasurer’s Office.

On July 19, Jon Briceno, 42, of Katy, Texas, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit money laundering.

According to the U.S. Attorney’s Office, Briceno laundered more than $8.7 million in proceeds from romance and business email compromise schemes. Among his victims is the Worcester County Treasurer’s Of-

“The crime committed against the Worcester County Treasurer’s Office stems from a cyber-fraud incident almost four years ago, in late 2020 and early 2021,” Worcester County Chief Administrative Officer Weston Young said this week. “The incident allowed a criminal to gain access to parts of the Treasurer’s Office data system, pose as a known county vendor, and illegally acquire county funds. Inconsistencies were noted on the vendor account by county staff, leading to the discovery of the fraud.”

According to the plea agreement, from June 2020 to Feb. 20, 2024, Briceno entered into an illegal agreement with two other individuals and several co-conspirators to conduct fraud schemes that involved the use

The U.S. Attorney’s Office reported that Briceno was an organizer or leader of a money laundering conspiracy that involved multiple participants throughout the nation. As part of the scheme, Briceno routinely directed co-conspirators to open bank accounts in their names or the names of shell companies, according to a news release.

Fraud proceeds deposited into those accounts were then transferred by the co-conspirators into another intermediate account. In connection with the scheme, Briceno and his coconspirators each took a percentage of the proceeds from schemes, with Briceno often taking 10-25% of the fraud proceeds.

In one of the schemes, Briceno’s co-conspirators targeted the Worcester County Treasurer’s Office. In total, Worcester County was fraudulently convinced to provide $167,745 in funds to a bank account controlled by Briceno as a result of a business email compromise scheme in which an accounting manager received fraudulent emails directing those payments be made in response to a bill.

According to the news release, the payments were made on 12 separate occasions beginning Nov. 20, 2020 and ending Jan. 21, 2021, with amounts ranging from $16.60 to $41,471.94.

“The subsequent criminal investigation, originally led by the Worcester County Sheriff’s Office in conjunction with federal authorities, led to the arrest of two individuals,” Young said this week.

“The county has recovered approximately 80% of the loss and continues to work with federal authorities as they distribute proceeds from the sale of the seized assets purchased with the stolen funds. In addition, the

county has made changes to limit outside access to our county systems and further safeguard operations in the future.”

In total, Briceno and his co-conspirators opened numerous bank accounts throughout the country to launder more than $8.7 million in proceeds they illegally obtained from victims in 14 states and six other countries, according to the news release. Briceno then used his share to purchase luxury items, invest in crypto-currency and lease office space to run a poker room.

Briceno’s Katy, Texas, home was searched in June 2022, during which time law enforcement seized numerous bank records, money order and pawn shop receipts, documents for various shell businesses, and various electronic devices containing messages and audio recordings of evidentiary value. And on Feb. 20, 2024, Briceno’s new home, also located in Katy, was searched, and he was arrested.

Briceno faces a maximum possible sentence of 20 years in prison followed by up to three years of supervised release. His sentencing is scheduled for Oct. 24.

United States Attorney for Maryland Erek L. Barron commended the United States Secret Service and the Worcester County Sheriff’s Office for their work in the investigation. Sheriff Matt Crisafulli this week also recognized the lead investigator in the case, Detective Tom Moore.

“The case is still ongoing at this point,” he said. “I applaud Detective Moore for his diligence in helping to bring this case forward for prosecution. Detective Moore worked in conjunction with the Secret Service on this investigation. These types of investigations are lengthy and are successful with strong support from our allied partners.”

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Dredging slated for inlet ahead of Open tournament

(July 26, 2024) The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers was set to begin conducting dredging operations this week in the Ocean City inlet.

According to a news release from the Maryland Department of Natural Resources Fisheries, the work was set to begin on Wednesday, July 24, and last until next Tuesday, July 30.

The project will focus on two priority areas from the last round of inlet dredging (unless a survey indicates otherwise), and the junction between the Isle of Wight and inlet channels.

People were urged to be mindful of the wake while traveling near the work site.

For more info, contact the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers dredge through marine band radio VHF-FM channels 13 and 16.

Outage affected some fire alarms

Continued from Page 6

with a feature that automatically called the fire department when activated.

“As a result, there is a potential for delay in fire department response,” a news release from last Friday reads. “Occupants of buildings experiencing a fire alarm activation and/or fire are always encouraged to immediately evacuate and then dial 911 to ensure the prompt response of the fire department.”

Whittington said this week the outage affecting such fire alarms systems has been resolved. However, he said the OCFD had taken proactive steps to inform the public in the hours following the incident.

“The goal was to ensure that building occupants were aware they needed to manually call the fire department if their fire alarm system activated, as the auto-dialers were not automatically contacting 911,” he said.

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PHOTO COURTESY MARYLAND DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES FISHERIES

Flocks of seagulls are pictured flying around over the water in the Ocean City inlet. A dredging protect was expected to commence this week and last through July 30 in the area.

DeLuca, Leukel join Yates in fall Ocean City council race

By Mallory Panuska Ames Digital Editor

(July 26, 2024) Ocean City’s upcoming council election is starting to heat up with two more candidates throwing their hats in the ring ahead of the fall filing deadline, creating a total pool of three people vying for four seats.

City Clerk Diana Chavis said in an email this week that incumbent Councilman Tony DeLuca and longtime local resident George Leukel have joined retired police captain Larry R. Yates on the local ticket.

Yates filed in January, shortly after the filing period opened.

The election is set for Nov. 5, with the filing deadline for candidates Oct.

8. By Oct. 1, any sitting council member who wants to run for mayor must resign.

Four at-large council seats — currently held by DeLuca and Councilmen Peter Buas, John Gehrig and Frank Knight — will be on the November ballot, along with Mayor Rick Meehan’s seat.

The seven council seats are staggered and elected every four years, while the mayor is elected every two years.

All positions are non-partisan.

The deadline to register to vote in the upcoming election is Oct. 15. For more information, visit oceancitymd.gov/oc/departments/cityclerk/election/.

By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor

(July 26, 2024) How, or if, Worcester County could do more to regulate solar projects on agricultural land was a topic of discussion at last week’s commissioners meeting.

Last Tuesday, the Worcester County Commissioners invited Maryland Association of Counties (MACo) Executive Director Michael Sanderson and Intergovernmental Relations Director Dominic Butchko to speak on utility scale solar systems and the pressures they place on the county’s agricultural land. Sanderson said despite his association’s efforts to fight for Maryland’s counties in the preservation of agricultural activities, state interest in reaching renewable energy targets continues to be a challenge.

“It’s a major issue,” he said. “It has

been for a number of years. It’s still alive and the temperature continues to escalate.”

In recent years, commissioners have expressed concerns regarding solar projects being developed on prime agricultural lands. Currently, county code permits utility scale solar systems in several zoning districts, so long as the lot exceeds 50 acres, according to a memo sent to the county commissioners. However, the Maryland Public Service Commission has the ultimate authority on projects more than two megawatts.

So anything below that, you’re in control,” Butchko told commissioners last week. “Anything above that, you have to get a Certificate of Public Necessity and Convenience from the Public Service Commission.”

Sanderson said rural counties like

Worcester are starting to feel the pressures of solar development, as their low-lying farms – relatively close to both the roadway and the power grid –are appealing to companies. Rather than go through local approvals, they are going to the state, which has set its own renewable energy targets.

“It didn’t take long for us to realize this was not just a Kent County problem or not just a Caroline County problem, it was definitely the whole of the Eastern Shore and really more,” he said. “Almost every place that’s heavy in agriculture is starting to feel this pressure.”

Officials noted that the state has set a goal that 14.5% of all energy generated by 2028 come from solar. And within the Maryland General Assembly, several bills have been introduced to limit a county’s authority over solar projects.

“We are in jeopardy of seeing what little guidance we have at the local government be eroded even further,” Sanderson said. “So the trend line on this issue is worrisome, and our forecast in the General Assembly is we think we are on the losing side of this debate. If there are changes in the law, they look like they’re heading in the direction of more and faster clean energy sources and development, as opposed to more restrictions and limitations and slowdowns.”

Butchko noted that the Maryland Public Service Commission does consider local input when approving a Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity, or CPCN. However, he said local governments were more or less stripped of their autonomy.

“You do have some input through state processes to say we don’t want it here, we have this policy, we want this setback,” he explained. “The state does consider that in their approval, but I think there were about 100 CPCNs, only two of them, give or take, have gotten denied.”

Butchko told commissioners that MACo continued to work toward compromise. However, he said solar legislation was becoming “more aggressive.”

“I don’t want to give you too much hope because there’s a lot of pressure,” he said. “The state is under a lot of pressure from the environmental community, the state’s under a lot of pressure from the energy industry. We don’t have the best card of hands here.”

Commissioner Chip Bertino questioned if the November election could impact what happens to solar in Maryland. Butchko said it likely wouldn’t.

“There might be some changes on the periphery, especially like federal subsidies,” he replied. “But Maryland has made both the General Assembly and this current administration a very big commitment to hitting 100% renewable energy. Even if there is a change at the federal level, I doubt that that would change anything at the state level.”

Worcester County Chief Administrative Officer Weston Young asked MACo

SAND BAR SATURDAYS

Hundreds of folks typically converage on the exposed sand bars north of the Route 50 Bridge during low tide afternoons. Pictured here was a scene earlier this month as recreational boaters anchored to celebrate time off.

PHOTO COURTESY CONNIE ALDERFER

County receives ag solar update

Continued from Page 14

representatives if the state’s solar policies were contradictory to its conservation and housing efforts. Butchko argued the state was giving counties conflicting objectives.

“I can tell you that your association is making the state policymakers very aware of the conflict that they’re creating,” he said.

Last week’s discussion comes nearly two months after Worcester County agreed to rescind its denial letter to the Public Service Commission for a solar project in Snow Hill, officially settling an administrative appeal that Chaberton Snow Solar LLC filed in circuit court last year. The commissioners voted against the project with little discussion other than concerns about equipment disposal decades down the line, prompting the property owner, Charles Waite, to openly question the elected officials.

“Worcester County’s director of development and review, Jennifer Keener, explained the Maryland Public Service Commission will decide the future of the solar project. However, upon review of the commissioners’ vote and a clear precedent that a 10-15 acre solar application is already in existence just yards over the property line from the future site, I believe the voters and community should expect a motion to reconsider this project from one of the commissioners from the prevailing side,” Waite said.

LAW FIRM OFFICE CELEBRATED

The Greater Ocean City Chamber of Commerce celebrated Cockey Brennan & Maloney PC’s new location in West Ocean City at 12216 Ocean Gateway on July 16 with a ribbon cutting ceremony. For 15 years, CBM has provided representation to clients throughout Maryland while retaining its Eastern Shore roots. Pictured, left to right, are attorneys Heather Konyar, Ashley Bosche, Thomas Maloney, Taylor Mooney, Robin Cockey, Laura Ryan, Mark Brennan and Peter Golba.

Ocean City police hands out bicycle lights to J-1 students

(July 26, 2024) On the evening of July 19, members of the Ocean City Police Department teamed up with a local restaurant near 32nd Street to help equip its J-1 seasonal workers with bicycle lights.

According to a news release, more than 15 LED bicycle lights were distributed in an effort to enhance public safety and employee well-being. The lights, now in use, significantly increase bicycle visibility at night, promoting highway safety and ensuring a safer environment.

The Town of Ocean City’s Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Committee, known as BPAC, has been a driving force in uniting the community to promote highway safety. The group coordinates with community mem-

bers, town officials, department and public safety employees, and the Maryland Department of Transportation to develop safer, more accessible biking and pedestrian infrastructure and initiatives. The committee also coordinates the town’s bicycle light program with the police department.

Sgt. Nathan Kutz, vice president of the BPAC and supervisor of the

Parents believe day care center hid alleged abuse

By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor

(July 26, 2024) Parents are coming forward with what they believe is an intentional lack of communication from the Berlin Activities Depot regarding allegations of abuse against a former daycare worker, but the facility reports it has continued to be transparent throughout the investigation.

Two former daycare workers are facing several charges stemming from a child abuse investigation within the infant classroom at the Berlin Activities Depot. As the two cases continue to work through the legal system, parents are sharing their frustrations with the facility’s handling of the alleged abuse.

“We want some accountability from the daycare and staff there that, frankly, tried to brush it under the rug,” said one parent, who agreed to speak on the condition of anonymity as to not identify her child.

Last November, the Worcester County Sheriff’s Office launched an investigation into the local daycare after law enforcement and Child Protective Services were notified of an eight-month-old who had been admitted to Atlantic General Hospital with a broken tibia.

The sheriff’s office alleges video footage of the infant classroom revealed that a daycare worker, Heather Ward, 40, of Berlin, had caused the child’s injuries and showed other concerning interactions with several other infants under her supervision.

As a result, a grand jury in March indicted Ward on 90 charges, including 10 felony counts of child abuse and 80 misdemeanor counts of second-degree assault. And in June, another classroom worker, Catherine Deutsch, 32, of Berlin, was arrested on 11 charges of failure to report child abuse/neglect and four charges of neglect of a minor.

As parents of the nine identified victims await trials for both cases,

PHOTO COURTESY OCEAN CITY

Ocean City Police Seasonal Officer Alex Campos and Public Safety Aide Cassadi Sangrey attach a light to a local J-1 student employee’s bicycle during a recent safety initiative.

Situation ‘taken a huge toll on us’

Continued from Page 20

some have come forward with documents and emails detailing the daycare’s handling of the situation. While an investigation was launched in early November, they say they were not notified of Ward’s termination until Nov. 30, and that the investigation was not formally acknowledged until Dec. 19, when owner Carmella Solito, COO Jocelyn Snelsire and Director Rosemary Mohr issued their letter to parents. Both Snelsire and Mohr are no longer employed at the Berlin Activities Depot.

“While some parents may not agree, the Solitos have tried to be as transparent as possible throughout the matter involving both Ms. Ward and Ms. Deutsch,” a statement from Steven Rakow, attorney for Carmella and Mark Solito and the Berlin Activities Depot, reads. “Let me set the record straight by stating that the allegations against Ms. Ward were provided to all parents in writing back in November 2023. Because Ms. Ward was under investigation by law enforcement, but had not been charged, there was little that my clients could disclose at the time; however, it is important to note that all documents, emails, reports to state agencies, and videos were turned over to the state to assist in its investigation. That in-

vestigation has led to the charges against not only Ms. Ward, but also recently against Ms. Deutsch.”

Parents, however, say they are upset by the lack of communication provided to them as part of the investigation. They pointed to a Nov. 16 site visit pertaining to the Ward investigation, during which the Office of Child Care found the daycare noncompliant with several regulations, including supervision, food preparation, diapering procedures and rest time safety, to name a few. While the state’s report was filed on Nov. 21, one parent said they were not notified of any issues until Dec. 14, when a message was sent regarding the discontinued use of baby blankets. In videos presented in court last week, Ward was seen covering the heads of some of the alleged victims with baby blankets.

“They emailed everyone about blankets in December, even though they signed off on the infraction in November,” said another parent, who also spoke on the condition of anonymity.

In January, Solito signed a compliance agreement acknowledging the compliance issues. In total, the state recorded 10 violations pertaining to Ward’s time in the infant classroom, although officials did not make a de-

termination of injurious treatment based on footage from a Nov. 1, 2023, video they were shown.

“We were not able to determine if there was injurious treatment,” the report reads. “The teacher, Heather Ward was not all that gentle with the children and there was 1 occasion when she did pick up a child 8 months old from their crib using the child’s hands, so that the child was hanging, and there was another time when she picked up a child from a crib, her hands under the child’s armpits and flipped the child onto their stomach. To us, it looked as though HW was just trying to get the job done, not a lot of TLC, robotic like.”

Parents argue the daycare had also failed to report the alleged abuse at the outset of the investigation. One parent said she was unaware of the allegations until a detective had reached out to her in December. Another heard of the situation through other parents who had already been contacted by the sheriff’s office.

“At this point there was still no abuse known to us, why [Ward] left, what was happening,” said a third parent. “We were so confused, because everyone loved Heather.”

Each of the parents interviewed

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Attorney defends Berlin center

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detailed the videos they were shown of interactions between Ward and their children. One parent said her child, who was between the ages of seven and 12 months at the time of the alleged abuse, now fears certain routines such as changing clothes and bathing. Another said her child has since been hospitalized for optic nerve pressure she believes is related to the incident.

“He’s in therapy, we are all in therapy,” she said. “It’s taken a huge toll on us.”

A third parent said her child would come home with unexplained bruises. She said it wasn’t until February that the department of social services and the sheriff’s office had made contact.

“We knew something was going on, but we were pretty naive to it …,” she said. “I wasn’t expecting for them to tell us my daughter was a victim of abuse.”

On Dec. 19, staff sent a letter to parents detailing the abuse investigation, as well as the findings of the state site visit. The letter reports the education facility had terminated the employee involved and was working with both the Office of Child Care and the local law enforcement.

“We have been fully cooperative with all requests from all local agencies throughout this process and have

been waiting further instruction/information from CPS on how and what we could do or say to anyone about this ongoing investigation,” the letter reads. “We sincerely apologize for any unintentional angst or worry this situation has caused, and we are wholeheartedly committed to improving our relationship with all families and provisioning the very best care we can to all children entrusted to our care.”

Rakow continued to reiterate those sentiments this week, stating, “The Solitos understand the frustration and concerns that all parents have regarding their children’s care at the Berlin Activities Depot. For over 25 years, Carmella Solito has coached children’s gymnastics, created a positive learning environment for children, and run a childcare center.”

He continued, “The incident with Ms. Ward is the first time Mrs. Solito’s business has ever had an employee charged with any type of child abuse. The Solitos and the Berlin Activities Depot continue to cooperate with law enforcement and state agencies that oversee childcare centers to ensure state laws are followed, including all mandatory reporting requirements and infractions corrected promptly. The Berlin Activities Depot provides quality childcare services and will continue to do so going forward.”

LED safety lights given to workers

Continued from Page 20

Ocean City Police Department’s Traffic Safety Unit, encourages Patrol Officers to conduct regular bicycle, scooter, and pedestrian enforcement. “The Police Department is perfectly positioned to work in unison with the BPAC to promote highway safety,” Kutz said in the release. “Patrol Division Officers have the ability to enforce violations of the motor vehicle law to address unsafe pedestrian, scooter, and bicycle violations. The primary way to do this is through the issuance of a traffic warning coupled with education about the law. Placing a bike light on a bicycle at night is an added bonus. The BPAC and its supporters have been instrumental in making all of this a success.”

From Jan. 1 to July 19, the police department distributed over 370 bicycle lights to riders. The effort was made possible by cash donations to the BPAC from the Surf Inn of Ocean City, American Legion, American Legion Leathernecks, Walmart, the First State Marine Corps League and Ocean City Development Corporation. The Ocean City Chamber of Commerce also donated bicycle lights for distribution.

Stay informed with our digital newsletter

Interested in getting more information more quickly than our weekly OC TodayDispatch delivers? Our five-days-a-week digital newsletter might be just what you need. We have developed an in-your-morningemail product (with updates for breaking news) and invite you to give it a try.

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

Runaway Bride anniversary events planned at museum

By Tara Fischer Staff Writer

(July 26, 2024) The Calvin B. Taylor House Museum in Berlin is celebrating the 25th anniversary of the release of “Runaway Bride,” starring Julia Roberts and Richard Gere, with an exhibit and a movie showing Saturday.

The iconic movie was filmed in Berlin in 1998 and released on July 30, 1999. Paramount Studios produced the film, turning the downtown area into Hale, Maryland, the motion picture’s setting.

On Saturday, July 27, Worcester GOLD (Giving Other Lives Dignity), a group dedicated to providing emergency financial assistance to county residents in need, is hosting a “Fun Run/ Walk” through Main Street to

commemorate the film’s release. The race will begin at 8:15 a.m., and participants are encouraged to wear wedding and bridesmaid dresses and tuxedo t-shirts to remain on theme. The event will start and end at the Calvin B. Taylor House Museum.

Attendees are encouraged to stop into Taylor House following the run. According to museum President Melissa Reid, inside the facility is an exhibit with donated items from the film, including a script and an extra costume. The museum is also hosting a lawn viewing of “Runaway Bride” on July 27 at 8 p.m. Soda and popcorn will be for sale.

“In the late 1970s and early 1980s … businesses were small and just starting to open again on Main Street,” Reid said. “’Runaway Bride’ provided so much to both the town and many of those small businesses … it gave the town economic stability to allow us to build a thriving small town and America’s Coolest Small Town. The movie gave us a platform to continue sustainable growth.”

The museum president also noted the movie increased tourism, as so many people wanted to check out the spots where Roberts and Gere lived and filmed.

The idea for the movie on the lawn was conceived when museum officials learned that the Town of Berlin Arts and Entertainment District arranged one-hour guided walking tours that pass iconic locations and buildings from the movie. These events are scheduled for Aug. 8, 13, 20 and 27. Reservations can be made by calling 410-629-1716.

Reid said that many buildings were empty when she was growing up in Berlin, and the historical architecture was covered up. “Runaway Bride” renewed a sense of community that has remained everlasting since. The town even received movie copies early and had its premiere.

The museum president said much of the town rode on school buses into West Ocean City to watch the film for the first time.

“The first scene shows an overhead shot of Main Street, and when that came up on the screen, the whole theater was clapping and cheering,” Reid said. “It was so fun to see the movie and see Berlin and the changes from then to now. It is a time capsule of Berlin history.”

Berlin citizens and residents of the surrounding areas are encouraged to visit the pop-up museum and come out to watch the movie on the Taylor House lawn. Both events are free and open to the public.

“Berlin is thriving because we still have that sense of collective community,” Reid said. “’Runaway Bride’ is the perfect way to keep that community going.”

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Peach Festival eyes 16th edition in Berlin on Aug. 3

By Tara Fischer Staff Writer

(July 26, 2024) Berlin’s Calvin B. Taylor House’s 16th annual Peach Festival is expected to draw thousands of attendees to browse the fruit-themed booths and shops on the museum’s lawn. The event is slated for Saturday, Aug. 3, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

The Peach Festival is held yearly to celebrate the history of Orlando Harrison and the Harrison Brothers Nurseries in Berlin, which at the time “dominated the United States’ peach market,” the municipality’s website states. The farm, which developed many varieties of peaches and other fruits, was founded in the late 1800s and, season-dependent, created between 250 and 500 jobs in and around the town.

Taylor House President Melissa Reid said that the nursery was once the largest fruit-order company in the world. The orchids had catalogues that people would write to, requesting fruit and trees.

While Worcester County’s fruit nursery is no longer here, Harrison’s home, Windy Brow, also called the Orlando Harrison House, still stands near the railroad tracks in Berlin. The annual Peach Festival honors the her-

itage the fruit farm and its founders cultivated in the town.

Reid noted the event had roughly 3,000 attendees last year. Officials hope to reach a similar number this time around.

“It is the biggest event in Berlin,” Reid said.

Local peaches and peach-flavored slushies will be for sale. The Salisbury University communications department helped develop a brand-new festival t-shirt. According to Reid, the students created an image, which the event organizers adapted for the garment. Local books on Berlin history, totes, and mugs will also be available.

Reid maintained that the event would include entertainment. Visitors can enjoy musical stylings by George and Pat Bilenki of the local Bilenki Duo, catch a cooking demonstration by Worcester Technical High School culinary and pastry arts teacher Chef Phil Cropper, and witness a performance by magician Magic Jack. The museum president also said that food will be available made by the WTHS students.

Amateur bakers will have the chance to participate in a peach piebaking competition. The registration deadline is Thursday, Aug. 1, and only 12 entries will be accepted. The Taylor House’s website says that the desserts must be delivered on the day of the festival between 9 a.m. and 10 a.m. Competitors must include a list of the ingredients.

Reid said there will be an adult and children’s pie-eating contest. Contestants will be judged on who can eat one pie “down to the tin” the fastest. Participants can sign up on the day of the event. The winner of the kids’ competition will receive an Island Creamery gift card, while the champion of the older age group will be given a free Peach Festival t-shirt.

The Briddell Family Foundation, founded by a Berlin family with roots from the 1870s, will have a table on the lawn. Reid said that the family still has descendants in the area and has formed a group focused on literacy and advocating for higher education.

The foundation’s official website describes itself as an organization that works to “aid the community in … humanitarianism, benevolence, education, and scholarship gifts.” Festival-goers will have the chance to learn more on Aug. 3.

The Peach Festival will feature Baked Desserts Café’s peach dumplings, flowers from Bay Street Blooms and kid’s games set up on the lawn. Attendees can purchase the official Berlin flag, and profits from the sales will help fund the proposed community center.

“This is our largest fundraiser, so we rely on people coming out,” Reid said.

On July 20, members of Ocean City Jeep Club gathered for their fifth annual School Supply Run. Worcester Youth and Family Counseling Services members joined

needed school supplies to help local children when they start the upcoming school year.

Berlin, Gillis to negotiate park building sale

By Tara Fischer Staff Writer

(July 26, 2024) The Berlin Mayor and Council unanimously voted to enter extended negotiations with Palmer and Sandy Gillis of Coastal Ventures Properties regarding purchasing and redeveloping Heron Park’s parcel 57.

Councilmembers Steve Green, Jack Orris, and Jay Knerr voted to move forward with the Gillises at the Monday, July 22 meeting of the Mayor and Council. Vice President Dean Burrell and Councilmember Shaneka Nichols were absent from the gathering. Though he does not have a vote, Mayor Zack Tyndall said he supported the direction.

A year’s worth of negotiating with Coastal Venture Properties (CVP) ended last summer in a 3-2 vote with

Knerr, Burrell and Nichols in favor of moving away from the Gillis direction and Green and Orris in favor of continuing on with CVP.

On Monday, the Mayor and Council heard casual presentations from the Gillises and local developer Jack Burbage on each party’s intention to re-engineer the former Tyson Foods processing plant on parcel 57 at Heron Park, which is currently undergoing demolition. The venture comes as the town hopes to improve the site’s aesthetic and usability. A minimum price of $1.2 million was set for the space to include 15 sewer EDUs.

At the July 8 meeting, the group discussed potential uses for the area. Initially, they determined that businesses that would compete with downtown Berlin, like retail and

restaurants, were off the table. However, upon further conversation, the body agreed to open the scope of possibilities. The only “hard nos” were storage facilities, chicken plants and chain operations.

“I want something that we are excited about,” Tyndall said at the previous meeting. “I want something that is going to fit Berlin, that has some energy around it, it fits our needs …”

The consensus of the dialogue was that anyone who wished could come forward with their plans at the July 22 session. However, the survivability of downtown Berlin should still be somewhat considered.

The group chose the Gillises for further solo conversations because their portfolio includes the redevelopment of structures like the ones

found on parcel 57.

“I am leaning towards Gillis due to his history with reusing these industrial buildings,” Green said. “I also trust he and his team knows how important it is for us not to hurt downtown.”

Green’s motion carried with Knerr and Orris in agreement.

Palmer and Sandy Gillis’ rough plan considers using the space for potential fitness, retail, professional offices, food services, and other commercial operations.

Conversations on July 8 maintained that mixed-use facilities with commercial space on the ground floor and apartments and offices above are a priority. The Mayor and Council noted on July 22 that this intention remains their preference.

“If there is a way to incorporate a housing component, that will strengthen the plan with our colleagues that are not here,” Tyndall said, addressing the Gillises.

Palmer Gillis argued that finding people to rent apartments on twostory buildings with a long walkup is impractical.

“It is not like walking up three or four steps; it is three flights,” he said. “It sounds simple, but it does not function well.”

Still, the developer agreed to consider incorporating residences and is open to further discussions.

“The consensus at our last meeting was for a mixed-use project so housing is important and was cited as important by our colleagues who are not here tonight,” Knerr said.

Palmer Gillis maintained that during negotiations, he and the town must understand the site’s uses, when rezoning will occur, the arrangement of a traffic study with the Maryland State Highway Administration, the scope of the ongoing demolition, and the entry and exit points.

Gillis’s plan emphasizes the need to conduct a traffic study with the Maryland State Highway Administration to accommodate access to Heron Park and the future skate park and public works facility planned for the surrounding areas. Palmer Gillis said that this task must be completed during school to account for the increased congestion. A comprehensive plan will be submitted to the SHA for comments and approval.

Additionally, Palmer Gillis hopes to understand, through further negotiation, the scope of the ongoing demolition of the old food processing plant. He noted that knowing the timeline and ongoing work at the site, which will determine redevelopment parameters, is vital to drafting a plan. He stressed the town and his company must work cohesively together through the hurdles in the future but stopped short of committing to

Demo change approved with shorter timeline

has outlined.

In related news, the council voted at the July 22 meeting to approve change orders for the ongoing demo project to account for additional areas to be addressed and torn down that were discovered during the current work. The contractor, JNT Enterprises, proposed an extra 45 days, extending the project to September 17. The governing body agreed to the add-ons, granting that the extension be decreased to 30 days.

“I want to see the 45-day extension reduced,” Green said. “I noticed at

the project that they are on-site, doing a lot of work, and then there are windows of time where not much is happening. I think sometimes it’s a considerable amount of time.”

The change order motion increases the contract amount by $27,995 for a total contract sum of $375,054. Knerr motioned to approve the change order with the 30day timeline with a second by Orris and support by Green.

While the town chose the Gillises for further negotiations, local developer Jack Burbage submitted a letter

asking to be considered. His associate, Samantha Pielstick, read the letter.

“May I suggest that you listen to the interested parties and what they have to offer before you decide what you do not want in the park,” his written statement reads. “I am referring to storage.”

The developer argued that a competing retail space would jeopardize downtown Berlin, as businesses “work hard to make ends meet” when it is not summer or the Christmas season.

Burbage also asked that the coun-

cil pause the sale of parcel 57 until the demolition of the processing plant is complete. He said it would be difficult for architects to design a plan without clear parameters.

However, the town favored the Gillises as potential developers.

“Burbage’s letter did not fall on deaf ears,” the mayor assured. “We will use it as guidance as we progress with the project.”

Palmer and Sandy Gillis are scheduled to meet with the Berlin Mayor and Council again on Aug. 26 at 5:30 p.m.

COASTAL DRIVE BERLIN

Snipe signs to be removed in Aug.

By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor

(July 26, 2024) Crews with Worcester County Public Works will begin removing snipe signs from the public right-of-way next week.

Beginning Aug. 1, any off-premises signs attached to trees, poles, stakes, fences or other objects will be removed as part of a new county effort to clean up the public right-of-way. Following a three-month period, Worcester County will begin issuing fines.

“Snipe signs are not permitted in any public right-of-way, which is either state or county-owned land,” a news release reads. “Under State law … the County is authorized to remove these signs. This includes commercial and political signs. All signs removed will be destroyed. Beginning Novem-

ber 1, a $25 per sign civil penalty will be issued for every snipe sign removed.”

Earlier this month, Public Works Director Dallas Baker gained approval from the Worcester County Commissioners to implement a pilot program to remove snipe signs from public land. He said the program would be an effort to assist the State Highway Administration in cleaning up the state rights-of-way.

“So, we’re asking for commissioner approval to start a pilot program to remove snipe signs,” he said at the time. “Those are the small roadside signs typically seen advertising services or sales of homes, that kind of thing, that have been illegally placed within state right-of-way. The state has the ability to delegate that authority to remove the signs to the

counties. They’re understaffed.”

Baker told the commissioners the public works department had received complaints regarding snipe signs along major roadways in Worcester County. He proposed a three-month period to remove and dispose of snipe signs before issuing fines.

The commissioner ultimately voted to proceed with the pilot program, but to have the public works department implement a similar policy for county rights-of-way. According to the news release, snipe signs will be removed from the public right-of-way beginning Aug. 1, with fines to be implemented in November.

Any questions can be directed to Worcester County Public Works at 410-632-5623.

WCPS gets $400K for after school, summer programs

Berlin Intermediate, SDMS to benefit from donation

(July 26, 2024) Worcester County Public Schools has been awarded a 21st Century Community Learning Centers Programs for the Future grant to provide after school and summer academies at Berlin Intermediate School and Stephen Decatur Middle School, through its North End STAR (Students That Are Ready) program.

The grant is renewable for a threeyear period, if continuation funds are approved annually.

The STAR program will support the school system that has recently met financial challenges in funding out-of-school time programming at these schools.

The money will provide academic support and interventions in literacy and math, as well as enrichment components for students in the areas of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math), health and wellness, arts and culture and more. Tutoring, homework help, and appropriate meals will also be offered in the program.

“We are very excited to receive this news,” Superintendent Lou Taylor said in a news release. “Being able to provide continued out-of- schooltime programs for all our schools has become increasingly difficult in our current economic climate. This will allow us to offer additional programs at two of the schools, which were cut due to reductions in local funding. We are very happy to be able to continue providing these learning opportunities to the students at Berlin Intermediate and Stephen Decatur Middle.”

The school system’s 21st Century Community Learning Centers programming not only provides academic and enrichment support to students, but also provides families with services for assistance and learning, provides opportunities for collaboration and partnership between schools and important community resources, and provides behavioral health services to students in need.

With the new grant for the 202425 school year, WCPS will have three active grants supporting out-ofschool programming at nine schools: Buckingham Elementary, Pocomoke Elementary, Pocomoke Middle, Pocomoke High, Snow Hill Elementary, Snow Hill Middle, Snow Hill High, Berlin Intermediate, and Stephen Decatur Middle schools.

The 21st Century Community Learning Centers grant program is designed to provide academic enrichment opportunities during nonschool hours for children.

Arts council issues awards in ‘Vacation Memories’ show

(July 26, 2024) The Worcester County Arts Council recently announced the winners in the juried art competition, “Vacation Memories.”

Entries in the competition are featured in the exhibit at the Arts Council’s Gallery at 6 Jefferson Street in Berlin, and consist of 31 pieces of artwork submitted by 20 artists with work in all media. Entries were judged by local artist and former art educator Clytie W. Taylor.

The following artists received awards: First Place — Karen Lembo, “Gwangju Night Alley” (mixed media)

Second Place — Ellen Scott, “Go with

the Flow” (watercolor)

Third Place — Judy Benton, “Culture Enjoyed in San Padro Guatemala” (mixed media)

Honorable Mention — Tia Tuvesson, “See You Next Year” (photo on metal)

Honorable Mention — Brigitte Bowden, “Moon Glow over Palms” (oil)

Honorable Mention — Rebekah Simonds, “Swim II” (acrylic)

The exhibit will be on display through Sept. 2. The artwork is available for purchase.

Gallery hours are 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., Tuesday through Sunday.

PHOTO COURTESY WORCESTER COUNTY ARTS COUNCIL

Pictured, from left, are “Vacation Memories” winning artists Tia Tuvesson and Karen Lembo; show judge Clytie W. Taylor; and winners Ellen Scott, Brigitte Bowden and Rebekah Simonds.

Lt. Ginnavan’s life membership began in ‘83

years.

When asked his reason for joining the OCVFC Calvin replied:

By Steve Price Contributing Writer

(July 26, 2024) This week we are pleased to recognize Ocean City Volunteer Fire Company Life Member Calvin Ginnavan Jr.

Calvin worked for the Ocean City Recreation and Parks Department retiring as the parks superintendent in 2017 after 37 years of service.

Calvin originally moved to Ocean City from Baltimore County to help in the family business. He and his wife, Carol, now reside in West Ocean City where they have lived for the past 41

“Being a fireman always interested him from a young age mainly because my grandfather (on my father’s side) was a member of the Baltimore City Salvage Corporation as the Driver of Truck #3. However, my dreams of being a fireman did not come true until moving to Ocean City in the Spring of 1980. At that time, I worked with a Recreation and Parks employee who was a member of the OCVFC. That employee explained how exciting the fire service was and how friendly the members were. The fellowship I found within the volunteer fire company was the best. I never regretted joining the OCVFC –

making life-long friends and serving my community.”

Calvin joined the OCVFC in 1983 as a firefighter and was assigned to Aerial Tower #705 where he later was appointed lieutenant serving under the leadership of Capt. Nelson Wright. Lt. Ginnavan was active for 15 years. He requested and was granted life membership in 1997.

Lt. Ginnavan recalls the tragic Sauté Café fire on the morning of July 16, 1983, as the most significant event of his time with Ocean City Volunteer Fire Company. He had only been in the OCVFC for a short period of time and responded to the fire on Tower #705. From his vantage point in the “basket” above the building, he quickly realized the seriousness of the fire and the challenges faced by the firefighters in attempting to rescue their fellow firefighter and extinguish the blaze. Even today, many years after fire, the loss of one of our own reminds Ginnavan of the dangers of firefighting even with the best of training.

Ginnavan cites his greatest accomplishment in the fire service as being an active firefighter assigned to Tower #705 during his entire years of service. He is proud of his involvement in the many rescues and responses to major structure fires as a crew member and later as the lieutenant on the aerial tower.

Given the opportunity to pass on advice to members of our OCVFC Cadet Program, or other young men and women with an interest in the fire service, Lt. Ginnavan said, “The OCVFC has one of the best training programs for a volunteer fire company anywhere in the state. The training is designed to ensure your safety on the fireground, and safety is always a top priority. We have many dedicated members with years of “on the job” experiences. Listen to their guidance and follow their recommendations and you will enjoy you career as a volunteer or career firefighter. The fellowship found in the OCVFC is not something found in many careers, do not take it for granted. You will establish friendships that will last forever.”

We thank Lt. Ginnavan for his many years of service and commitment to the safety and well-being of our residents and the many visitors to our resort community.

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

Calvin Ginnavan Jr.

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Combines, crab races, county fair scheduled for Ag Week

(July 26, 2024) From Aug. 3-11, Worcester County will be celebrating Agriculture Week with an array of events and activities.

“From combines to crab races to countywide fairs, farm life will take center stage for this weeklong celebration,” Melanie Pursel, director of Worcester County Tourism and Economic Development, said in a news release. “We invite everyone to come out and discover the people, places, and festivals that make up the heartbeat of our vibrant, rural Worcester County farming community.”

The 24th annual Blessing of the Combines begins at 11 a.m., Aug. 3, in Snow Hill. The grounds will rumble, as fleets of 13-ton combines and farm equipment roll into town. Celebrating local agriculture and honoring farm families. The event will include a petting barnyard, live music, pedal tractor pull, hayrides, food, and beverages. View the schedule at blessingofthecombines.org”www.blessingofthecombines.org.

From 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Aug. 3, the

annual Peach Festival will be held on the Taylor House Museum lawn in Berlin. The event will feature live music and kids’ activities. Peach pies, peach slushies, and more will be available to buy. Learn more about this sweet event at taylorhousemuseum.org”www.taylorhousemuseum.org.

Experience beekeeping at BayBees Honey, at 11244 Hall Road in Whaleyville on Aug. 4. Learn why everyone should be a beekeeper and how to make honey products. The cost is on special for $35 per person. RSVP online. Available spots are first come, first served.

From 2-4 p.m., Aug. 4, take a behind-the-scenes tour of ice cream making operations at Worcester County’s last working dairy farm, Chesapeake Bay Farms, at 4111 Whitesburg Road in Pocomoke. All participants will receive a free waffle cone upgrade with any ice cream purchase.

From 3-5 p.m., Aug. 5, watch crab races, learn about scallops and bivalves, and paddle out on the bay at Baywater Landing, at 3908 Bayside Road in Snow Hill. Visitors will learn about the seafood industry and the

ACTIVITIES Page 42

Activities planned for Aug. 3-11

Continued from Page 41

aquaculture business.

Then at 6 p.m, Aug. 5, children ages 8-12, can dive into STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics) at Peach Oak Farm, at 10839 St. Martin’s Road in Berlin. Participants will explore the process of the four-chambered stomach. Space is limited. RSVP at 443-397-2113.

From 2-4 p.m., Aug. 6, see a Japanese kokedama making demonstration and shop the pottery studio at Libelle Homestead, at 8152 Libertytown Road in Berlin. Parking is limited to 20 vehicles. Wear comfortable shoes. Heels are not permitted in the greenhouse.

From 2-6 p.m., Aug. 7, view life on a working horse farm at Rusted Star Ranch, at 8616 Cedar Lane Road in Berlin. There will be an open house and free kids’ activities. Children must wear closed-toed shoes for pony rides in the arena.

From 3-6 p.m., Aug. 8, take part in a fiber processing workshop at Marshall Creek Farm, at 9048 Marshall Creek Road in Newark. Signature cocktails and light refreshments will be provided. The cost per person is $55. Sign up online.

Then at 6:30 p.m., Aug. 8, indulge in Practice Where You Peach yoga at Bennett Orchards, at 31442 Peachtree Lane in Frankford, Delaware. Afterward, enjoy complimentary gather alfajores and pick-your-own quarter-peck bag of peaches. Space is available for 75 individuals. The cost is $45 per person. Tickets are available online.

From 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., Aug. 9, savor fresh, delicious tomatoes and learn about the harvesting process at Cross Farm, at 9933 Pitts Road in Berlin. An heirloom tomato tasting event will be hosted by The Blacksmith Restaurant.

The grand finale of Agriculture Week includes not one, but two fairs.

From Aug. 8-11, visit the Great Pocomoke Fair, at 2037 Broad Street in Pocomoke. Witness Bullride Mania Rodeo Company cowboys tame their steeds. Then take in carnival rides, games, live entertainment, and more.

From Aug. 9-11, take in the Worcester County Fair, at John Walter Smith Park at 6022 Public Landing Road in Snow Hill. This fair celebrates the fruits of harvest, handiwork of local artisans, and the prowess of farmers, young and old alike, who raise crops and blue-ribbon quality livestock.

Both fairs will include live entertainment, kids’ activities, farm animals, and farm-fresh food and beverages. View the schedule of events at worcestercountyfair.org”www.worcest ercountyfair.org.

Agriculture Week in Worcester County – hosted by WCTED in partnership with the Worcester County Department of Recreation and Parks — is also a great time to explore the local farmers markets.

“Shopping at area farmers markets is a great way to eat healthy and support local farm families,” WCTED Advertising and Destination Marketing Specialist Brianna Dix said in the release. “Discover fresh farm-to-table foods and crafts from local artisans at the farmers markets that operate in each of the seven districts within Maryland’s Coast.”

Farmers markets schedules are as follows:

• 8 a.m. to 1 p.m., Saturdays, the Ocean Pines Farmers and Artisans Market takes place at White Horse Park

• 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., Sundays, the Berlin Farmers Market takes place on Pitts, Commerce, and Main streets

• Noon to 5 p.m., Thursdays, the Snow Hill Farmers Market takes place at the Green Street Parking Lot.

• 7 a.m., Fridays, the Pocomoke Farmers Market takes place at 3 Market Street

• 8 a.m. to noon, Tuesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays, and Sundays, the Ocean City Farmers Market takes place at Gold Coast Mall

Learn more about Agriculture Week activities at visitmarylandscoast.org, or visit the individual Facebook event pages. For additional information, contact Dix bdix@co.worcester.md.us or 410-6323112 x2123.

PHOTO COURTESY WORCESTER COUNTY GOVERNMENT

Pictured, front row from left, during an Agriculture Week proclamation are WCTED Advertising and Destination Marketing Specialist Brianna Dix and Director Melanie Pursel, Claire Rush of Baywater Landing, and WCTED Business Development and Retention Specialist Michele Burke. Pictured, second row from left, are Lauren Pascarella of BayBees Honey, Shawn and Carol Cross of Cross Farms, Worcester County Recreation and Parks Superintendent Jacob Stephens and Lee Beauchamp of Baywater Landing. Third row, from left, are Commissioners Caryn Abbott, Jim Bunting and Joe Mitrecic, Commissioner President Chip Bertino, and Commissioners Eric Fiori, Ted Elder and Diana Purnell.

MEMORY LANE WEST OCEAN CITY BRAND-NEW UPSCALE HOMES

• OPTIONS RANGE BETWEEN 3 BRs & 3.5 BAs to 6 BRs & 6.5 BAs

• PRIMARY BEDROOM has SITTING ROOM & COFFEE BAR

• EN SUITE BATH for EACH BEDROOM

• CUSTOM SHUTTERS & SHADES

• OPTIONS ARE AVAILABLE on the TO-BE-BUILT HOMES

• CLOSE TO RETAIL SHOPPING, POPULAR RESTAURANTS & BARS

FIRE EXTINGUISHER

TECHNICIAN: Full or Part Time, No Wknds, No Nights, Will Train. Must have good driving record & some Basic Mechanical Skills Perfect for Retirees. Small local company, 30 yrs. serving Delmarva. 410-641-4411

NOW HIRING

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

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

FIRE ALARM TECHNICIAN: Full Time position. Exp. w/Low Voltage a plus but will train. Some Electrical/ Mechanical Skills Are Req. Must have good driving record. Mon.-Fri., Paid Vacation and Holidays. Small local company. 30 yrs. serving Delmarva. 410-641-4411

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

Pool -

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

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

COMMERCIAL

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

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.

WANT TO BUY

WANTED TO BUY: Vintage signs, old advertising items, military memorabilia, antique toys, decoys, and small antique items. Call/text, 443-880-3082

YARD SALE

Yard Sale - Sat., July 27th, 8am-5pm. Large Yard Sale, head to toe women’s apparel and accessories, household and other, etc., 11 & 13 Trinity Place, Ocean Pines, MD

HUGE YARD SALE 7/27-7/28 8605 CARIBBEAN DR., OC,MD

Furniture, sports, equipment, bikes, vintage items, clothing, medical supplies/equipment, elder care equipment. 2006 Sea Hunt, Triton 220cc, Yamaha F150 engine, 2020 Venture trailer. $29,900. Call 410-708-8280. FREE SAILBOAT 1976, 27’ Catalina Yachts. Call for details, 443-880-7453.

RENTALS

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

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

McCabe, Weisberg & Conway, LLC

312 Marshall Avenue, Suite 800 Laurel, MD 20707

www.mwc-law.com

SUBSTITUTE

TRUSTEES’ SALE OF IMPROVED REAL PROPERTY

5 EVERGREEN COURT BERLIN, MD 21811

Under a power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust from Kelley E. Galyen a/k/a Kelley E. Gaylen, dated December 26, 2006 and recorded in Liber 4859, folio 684 among the Land Records of Worcester County, MD, default having occurred under the terms thereof and at the request of the parties secured thereby, the undersigned Substitute Trustees will offer for sale at public auction at the Circuit Court for Worcester County, at the Court House Door, One W. Market St., Snow Hill, MD 21863, on

AUGUST 13, 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 $8,000 at the time of sale. If the noteholder and/or servicer is the successful bidder, the deposit requirement is waived. Balance of the purchase price is to be paid within ten (10) days of the final ratification of the sale by the Circuit Court for Worcester County, Maryland. Interest is to be paid on the unpaid purchase price at the rate of 5% per annum from date of sale to the date the funds are received in the office of the Substitute Trustees, if the property is purchased by an entity other than the noteholder and/or servicer. If payment of the balance does not occur within ten (10) days of ratification, the deposit will be forfeited as liquidated damages. The purchaser agrees that the property may be resold pursuant to an order of court, waives personal service upon themselves and/or any principal or corporate designee of any documents filed regarding the failure to pay the purchase price within ten (10) days of ratification and expressly agrees to accept service by first class mail of said documents at the address provided by the purchaser in the Memorandum of Sale. The purchaser will not be entitled to any surplus or profits arising from the resale even if they are the result of improvements made by the purchaser. There will be no abatement of interest due from the pur-

chaser in the event settlement is delayed for any reason. Taxes, ground rent, water rent, and all other public charges and assessments payable on an annual basis, including sanitary and/or metropolitan district charges, and front foot benefit charges, if applicable, to be adjusted for the current year to the date of sale, and assumed thereafter by the purchaser. Condominium fees and/or homeowners association dues, if any, shall be assumed by the purchaser from the date of sale. The purchaser shall be responsible for the payment of the ground rent escrow, if required. Cost of all documentary stamps, transfer taxes (including agricultural transfer taxes, if applicable), and all settlement charges shall be borne by the purchaser. The sale is subject to a post sale audit of the loan, including but not limited to an analysis of whether the borrower entered into a loan modification agreement, filed bankruptcy, reinstated or paid off the loan prior to the sale. The Substitute Trustees will convey either insurable or marketable title. If the Substitute Trustees are unable to convey insurable or marketable title or, the post sale audit concludes that the sale should not have occurred, or the sale is not ratified by the court for any reason, the purchaser’s sole remedy in law or equity shall be limited to the refund of the deposit without interest even if the purchaser has made improvements to the property. Upon refund of the deposit, the sale shall be void and of no effect, and the purchaser shall have no further claim against the Substitute Trustees. Purchaser shall be responsible for obtaining physical possession of the property. The purchaser at the foreclosure sale shall assume the risk of loss for the property immediately after the sale. (Matter #2013-42873).

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

OCD-7/25/3t

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

FORECLOSURE

SALE

31 MYSTIC HARBOUR BLVD. BERLIN, MARYLAND 21811

By virtue of a Statement of Lien recorded among the Land Records of Worcester County, Maryland, and pursuant to an Order of the Circuit

Court for Worcester County, Maryland in Case No. C-23-CV-24000122, the undersigned Trustee will offer for sale at public auction in front of the property located at 31 Mystic Harbour Blvd., Berlin, Maryland 21811, on

FRIDAY, AUGUST 9, 2024 AT 9:00 AM

ALL that certain lot or parcel of land lying and being situate in the Tenth Election District of Worcester County, Maryland, which is more particularly designated as Lot Number 246, in Block J, Section 3-B, in Mystic Harbour, as shown on the plat entitled Mystic Harbour Subdivision Section 3B recorded among the Land Records of Worcester County, Maryland in Plat Book No. 139, folio 69, et seq.

The property will be sold in an as is condition and subject to conditions, restrictions and agreements of record affecting the same, with no warranties or guarantees, and will be sold subject to a Deed of Trust recorded among the aforesaid Land Records in Liber No. 5509, folio 192, said Deed of Trust having had an original principal balance of $210,000.00 on May 24, 2010. The Trustee reserves the right to reject any and all bids.

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

For more information, call: James E. Clubb, Jr. Trustee

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.

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,

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

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,

A.M.

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-

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

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).

COHN, GOLDBERG

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.

Laura H. G. O'Sullivan, et al., Substitute Trustees OCD-7/18/3t

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

OCD-7/18/3t

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 Worcester County. 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

OCD-7/11/3t

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

OCD-7/11/3t

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 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

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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.

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.

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

OCD-7/18/3t

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

OCD-7/18/3t

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

OCD-7/18/3t

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

OCD-7/18/3t

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 OCD-7/18/3t

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

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MICHAEL B. MATHERS ESQ. WEBB, WILBER, DOUSE, MATHERS & ILLUMINATI, 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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JAMES E. CLUBB JR, ESQ 108 N 8TH ST. OCEAN CITY, MD 21842 SMALL ESTATE

NOTICE

OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

To all persons interested in the estate of MIRIAM O WERTHEIMER Estate No. 20260 Notice is given that SYLVIA W VOREAS whose address is 603 LASSWELL CT SW LEESBURG, VA 20175-5023, HEDI W FORTUNE whose address is 5802 WOOD LAUREL CT BURKE, VA 22015-2921 were on JULY 18, 2024 appointed personal representative(s) of the small estate of MIRIAM O WERTHEIMER who died on JUNE 14, 2007 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 claims will be barred unless the creditor presents the claim within thirty days from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. Any claim not served or filed within that time, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter.

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

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BEFORE THE PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION OF MARYLAND

IN THE MATTER OF CHABERTON SOLAR SNOW LLC’S APPLICATION FOR A CERTIFICATE OF PUBLIC CONVENIENCE AND NECESSITY TO CONSTRUCT A 4 MW SOLAR PHOTOVOLTAIC GENERATING FACILITY IN WORCESTER COUNTY, MARYLAND CASE NO. 9714

NOTICE

OF PUBLIC COMMENT HEARING

An evening public comment hearing in the above-entitled matter is scheduled for Monday, August 19, 2024 at 6:30 p.m. at Worcester County Library - Snow Hill Branch, Snow Hill Meeting Room, 307 N. Washington Street Snow Hill, Maryland 2186, via In-Person and virtual platform, concerning Chaberton Solar Snow LLC’s application for a Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity (CPCN) from the Maryland Public Service Commission.

The hearing will be live streamed and members of the public can participate virtually. If you would like to participate virtually, please send an email to psc.pulj@gmail.com by 12:00 Noon on August 16, 2024. Otherwise, you may watch the public hearing on the Public Utility Law Judge (PULJ) Division’s YouTube Channel, https://bit.ly/2X6wLiP.

Written comments on the proposed Project may be submitted on or before August 23, 2024 electronically through the Commission’s Public Comment Dropbox, which can be accessed through the Commission’s website at www.psc.state.md.us, or by first-class mail with the Commission’s Chief Clerk, Jamie Bergin, Maryland Public Service Commission, 6 St. Paul Street, 16th Floor, Baltimore, Maryland 21202. All comments must include reference to Case No. 9714

Pursuant to the Commission’s March 13, 2020 Notice of Waiver and Relaxed Filing Requirements, no paper copies need to be submitted if the filing is public in nature and no more than 25 pages in length. The Commission encourages parties to use the Commission’s “e-file” system for filing. Instructions for e-filing are found under the “Tools” section of the Commission’s website under the “Make a Public Comment” tab. Which can be accessed via the following link: https://www.psc.state.md.us/make-apublic-comment/.

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IN THE ORPHANS’ COURT FOR (OR)

BEFORE THE REGISTER OF WILLS FOR WORCESTER COUNTY, MARYLAND

IN THE ESTATE OF: WILLIAM EMORY SHOCKLEY JR.

ESTATE NO. 20279

NOTICE

OF JUDICIAL PROBATE

To all Persons Interested in the above estate:

You are hereby notified that a petition has been filed by Thomas J. Kokilis, Esq., 110 North Washington Street, Suite 500, Rockville, MD 20850 for the appointment of a personal representative. A hearing will be held at One W. Market Street, Court Room 4, Court House, Snow Hill, MD 21863 on August 20, 2024 at 10:00 a.m.

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

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

Phone: (410) 632-1529

Newspaper designated by personal representative: Ocean City Digest

Publication Date: July 25, 2024

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NOTICE

OF PUBLIC HEARING WORCESTER COUNTY BOARD OF ZONING APPEALS AGENDATHURSDAY,AUGUST 8, 2024

Pursuant to the provisions of the Worcester County Zoning Ordinance, notice is hereby given that a public hearing will be held in-person before the Board of Zoning Appeals for Worcester County, in the Board Room (Room 1102) on the first floor of the Worcester County Government Center, One West Market Street, Snow Hill, Maryland.

6:30 p.m. Case No. 24-49, on the lands of Greg Haltom, on the application of Paradise Energy Solutions, requesting an after-the-fact variance to the left side yard setback from 20 feet to 17.14 feet (encroaches 2.86 feet at furthest point) for an existing ground mounted solar array in the A-1 Agricultural District, pursuant to Zoning Code §§ ZS 1-116(c)(4), ZS

1-201(b)(5), ZS 1-305 and ZS 1-349, located at 3633 Payne Road, Tax Map 101, Parcel 47, Tax District 1, Worcester County, Maryland.

6:35 p.m. Case No. 24-50, on the lands of Farmer’s Bank of Willards, on the application of Jamie Covington, requesting a special exception to construct a freestanding, non-monument sign in the C-2 General Commercial District, pursuant to Zoning Code §§ ZS 1-116(c)(3), ZS 1210(d)(3) and ZS 1-324(c)(4)B.4, located at 9701 Stephen Decatur Highway, Tax Map 26, Parcel 203, Lot 22A, Tax District 10, Worcester County, Maryland.

6:40 p.m. Case No. 24-51, on the lands of Berlin Fire Company, on the application of Jamie Covington, requesting a special exception to construct a freestanding, non-monument sign in the C-2 General Commercial District, pursuant to Zoning Code §§ ZS 1-116(c)(3), ZS 1210(d)(3) and ZS 1-324(c)(4)B.4, located at 10837 Ocean Gateway, Tax Map 20, Parcel 122, Tax District 3, Worcester County, Maryland.

6:45 p.m. Case No. 24-48, on the lands of Box 64 B Selbyville, LLC, on the application of Kristina Watkowski, requesting a variance to the Atlantic Coastal Bays Critical Area regulations to exceed the allowable 100 foot tidal wetland crossing by 135 for a proposed 3 foot by 235 foot walkway over tidal wetlands, pursuant to Natural Resources Code §§ NR3-125(b)(1), Zoning Code §§ ZS 1-116(m)(1) and ZS 1-305(p)(3), located on Jarvis Road, about .43 miles north of Collins Road, Tax Map 9, Parcel 287, Lot 4, Tax District 5, Worcester County, Maryland. 6:50 p.m. Case No. 24-52, on the lands of Murphy Family Revocable Trust, on the application of Hugh Cropper, IV, requesting a modification to extend a waterfront structure in excess of 125 feet by 17.7 feet for an existing pier and platform extending a total of 142.7 feet channelward, pursuant to Natural Resources Code §§ NR 2-102(e)(1) and Zoning Code §§ ZS 1-116(n)(2), located at 11524 Bay Point Lane, Tax Map 50, Parcel 2, Lot 2A, Tax District 10, Worcester County, Maryland.

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B. RANDALL COATES ESQ COATES, COATES, & COATES 204 WEST GREEN STREET P O BOX 293 SNOW HILL, MD 21863

NOTICE

OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS To all persons interested in the estate of DEE MATTHEW COLE Estate No. 20277 Notice is given that FRANCES W COLE whose address is 5505 DOUBLE BRIDGES RD SNOW HILL, MD 21863-2525 was on JULY 15, 2024 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of DEE MATTHEW COLE who died on JULY 01, 2024 without a will. Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal representative or the attorney.

All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent's will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 15th day of 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 OCD-7/25/3t

KIRK G. SIMPKINS ESQ

SIMPKINS & SIMPKINS, P.A. P.O. BOX 550 PRINCESS ANNE, MD 21853

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

To all persons interested in the estate of VERNON RALPH ROTHSCHILD Estate No. 20280 Notice is given that ELIZABETH ROTHSCHILD whose address is 300 MILL STREET UNIT C & D SALISBURY, MD 21801 was on JULY 15, 2024 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of VERNON RALPH ROTHSCHILD who died on JULY 01, 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.

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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RACHEL B HARRIS ESQ PO BOX 62

POCOMOKE CITY, MD 218510062

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

To all persons interested in the estate of DEBORAH JOYCE ARNOLD Estate No. 20246 Notice is given that ZACCHEUS ARNOLD whose address is 2921 MISTWOOD FOREST DR CHESTER, VA 238317043 was on JULY 16, 2024 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of DEBORAH JOYCE ARNOLD who died on JANUARY 30, 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 16th 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

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SMALL ESTATE

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

ESTATE NO. 20278 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF BARBARA SUE JAHN FRAZIER

Notice is given that Ian Frazier, 7362 Timmons St., Pittsville, MD 21850-2014, was on July 15, 2024 appointed personal representative of the small estate of Barbara Sue Jahn Frazier who died on April 21,

2024, without a will.

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

All persons having any objection to the appointment 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.

Ian Frazier 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 25, 2024

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SMALL

ESTATE NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE NO. 20282 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF JAMES FRANCIS TIERNEY

Notice is given that John H. Tierney, 12 Dockside Ct., Berlin, MD 21811-1821, was on July 17, 2024 appointed personal representative of the small estate of James Francis Tierney 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 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.

John H. Tierney 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 25, 2024

OCD-7/25/1t

Law Offices of Jeffrey Nadel 4041 Powder Mill Road, Suite 200 Calverton, Maryland 20705 240-473-5000

Jeffrey Nadel Scott Nadel Daniel Menchel 4041 Powder Mill Road, Suite 200 Calverton, MD 20705

Substitute Trustees

Plaintiff v. Steven Craig Tamalavicz, Jr., PR for the Estate of Kathleen Joyce Tamalavicz aka Kathleen J. Tamalavicz

12212 Cygnet Lane Bishopville, MD 21813

Defendant(s) IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR WORCESTER COUNTY, MARYLAND Civil No. C-23-CV-24-000064

NOTICE

Notice is hereby given this 22nd day of July, 2024, by the Circuit Court for Worcester County, that the sale of the property mentioned in these proceedings, made and reported, will be ratified and confirmed, unless cause to the contrary thereof be shown on or before the 19th day of August, 2024, provided a copy of this notice be inserted in a weekly newspaper printed in said County, once in each of three successive weeks before the 12th day of August, 2024.

The Report of Sale states the amount of the foreclosure sale price to be $211,000.00. The property sold herein is known as 12212 Cygnet Lane, Bishopville, MD 21813. Susan R. Braniecki Clerk of the Circuit Court True Copy Test: Susan R. Braniecki Clerk of the Circuit Court Worcester County MD

JOHN P CUSTIS ESQ

CUSTIS LAW OFFICE

1408 S SALISBURY BLVD

SALISBURY, MD 21801-7127

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

To all persons interested in the estate of MARY ELIZABETH WARD

TILGHMAN AKA: BETTY W TILGHMAN Estate No. 20285 Notice is given that HOWARD VICTOR TRADER whose address is 4025 STOCKTON RD POCOMOKE CITY, MD 21851-2649 was on JULY 22, 2024 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of MARY ELIZABETH WARD TILGHMAN who died on MARCH 05, 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 22nd 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 OCD-7/25/3t

SHAFFER LAW OFFICE

PATRICK D. HANLEY JR. 836 S. MAIN ST., STE. 101 BEL AIR, MD 21014-4169

NOTICE

TO CREDITORS OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE ESTATE NO. 10851

NOTICE IS GIVEN that the Chancery Court of Sussex County, Delaware appointed Trudy Jones LaGarde, 4822 Old Sharptown Rd., Laurel, DE 19956-4016 as the Personal Representative of the Estate of James Lewis LaGarde who died on March 09, 2024 domiciled in Delaware, America.

The Maryland resident agent for service of process is Patrick D. Hanley, Jr. whose address is 836 S. Main St., Ste. 101, Bel Air, MD 210144169.

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.

Trudy Jones LaGarde

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 25, 2024

OCD-7/25/3t

STEPHANIE SCALES SHERRIN ESQ.

SCALES LAW GROUP 11032 NICHOLAS LANE, STE. A202 BERLIN, MD 21811

NOTICE

OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 20287 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF DOROTHY L. SAMUELS

Notice is given that Barbara A. Nester, P.O. Box 1178, Prince George, VA 23875-1000, was on July 22, 2024 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Dorothy L. Samuels who died on June 21, 2024, with a will.

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

All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent’s will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 22nd 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 pre-

sented or filed on or before that date, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter. Claim forms may be obtained from the Register of Wills.

Barbara A. Nester

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 25, 2024

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B. RANDALL COATES ESQ. COATES, COATES, & COATES 204 WEST GREEN STREET P.O. BOX 293 SNOW HILL, MD 21863

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 20284 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF KATHLEEN MARIE RICHTER

Notice is given that Charles W. Ritcher, 617 Salt Spray Rd., Unit 1, Ocean City, MD 21842-5079, was on July 22, 2024 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Kathleen Marie Richter who died on June 29, 2024, without a will.

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

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

Charles W. Ritcher 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 25, 2024

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NOTICE

OF PUBLIC HEARING BOARD OF ZONING APPEALS TOWN OF OCEAN CITY, MARYLAND

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

Thursday, August 8, 2024 AT 6:00 PM

Pursuant to the provisions of Section 110-93(2), Powers of the Code, an appeal of Section 110-94(2)(b) has been filed to request a special parking exception from design standards to allow for a parking space to be 8.08’ X 20.0’ rather than 9’ X 20’, as required by Code. The site of the appeal is described as Lot 12B, Section B, of the Warren’s Park Co-op Plat. It is further described as being located on the north side of Middle Way Lane and is locally known as 42 Middle Way Lane in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.

APPLICANT: LARRY HOLDREN (BZA 2698, #24-09400020)

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-7/25/2t

PHOTO COURTESY BONNIE PATANIA FOX ON THE WATER

While standing on a piling along the bay in Ocean City, this trespassing fox seems unfazed by the homeowner nearby taking its picture.

New Wor-Wic program

Wor-Wic Community College recently started the Fins to the Finish Line initiative, a pilot program that provides $125,000 in funding, as well as support and training in the Scaling Up College Completion Efforts for Student Success program aimed at improving college completion and economic mobility for students.

Wor-Wic is one of three community colleges in the pilot program. A total of 50 students are expected in the first cohort this fall.

To start, eligible participants will be selected from a group of near-full-time students. Students should have good academic records and will need to meet certain milestones to receive incentives, such as checking in with their academic advisers throughout the semester.

Wor-Wic has also recently added new, flexible scheduling options, including a reorganized night class schedule that enables students who work during the day to go to school full-time at night. Online, hybrid and seven-week class options give students many different scheduling choices that flex around their needs.

For more information about the Fins to the Finish Line program, students can contact the academic advising center at academicadvising@worwic.edu or 410-572-8725.

Students enrolling for the first time will meet with an enrollment coach, then speak with an academic advisor. The application deadline for fall classes is Aug. 23.

August Craft Fair

The Pine’eer Craft Club will host its annual August Craft Festival from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., Aug. 3, in both the Ocean Pines Community Center and White Horse Park.

A tradition in the community for nearly five decades, the event will feature dozens of local artisans and crafters selling 100% handmade items and unique home décor.

The Kiwanis Club will sell lunch items during the festival, and craft club members will host a bake sale featuring a variety of sweet treats that sell out each year.

The event is free and open to the public and offers free parking. There is no rain date, and the festival will go on, rain or shine.

Coming up, the craft club will host the annual Holiday Craft Fair on Nov. 2. Space for the event is already sold out.

Anyone interested in joining the club should contact Sherry Waskey at sherwaskey@gmail.com for more information.

Since its inception, the craft club has donated nearly $185,000 back to Ocean Pines. The club has been proudly

handcrafting in Ocean Pines for 50 years.

For more information, visit oceanpines.org/web/pages/artisan-gift-shop or search Ocean Pines Pine’eer Craft Club on Facebook.

New MSO board member

Ocean Pines resident Rebecca Pille was recently elected to the Mid-Atlantic Symphony Orchestra Board of Directors.

Pille’s professional career spans nearly four decades in federal service and one decade in higher education.

During her 25-year focus on organization development and change, and individual development and behavior change, Pille became a recognized leader in workplace wellness. She led, designed, and delivered holistic health programs and services to a global workforce toward the end of her federal service career (1978-2015).

Currently, as an adjunct associate professor at the Maryland University of Integrative Health, Pille teaches courses on integrative health sciences. She has also chaired the University’s Health and Wellness Coaching Department (201621) and the Faculty Senate, and is a published academic researcher and a peer reviewer for Health Literacy Research and Practice.

Rebecca’s formal education includes a doctorate in psychology, a master’s degree in applied behavioral science,

and a bachelor’s degree in Soviet Area studies and Russian language.

Pille is also is a member of The Parke’s Design Review Committee, supporting her local neighborhood. She is now eager to re-engage her love of music by volunteering her services to the Mid-Atlantic Symphony Orchestra.

Park ribbon cutting

Members of the public are invited to join the Worcester County Commissioners and county school officials as they cut the ribbon for the new basketball courts and park at Pocomoke Middle School at 11 a..m., Tuesday, July 30.

Following prior project delays, the new facility is now officially open. It consists of a basketball play area, that can be used as either two courts or one, and one mini-pitch for soccer.

The new facility, named Warrior Courts at Stephen H. Long Memorial Park, is recommended for both children and adults to use and is open to the public outside of school hours and when organized sports programming is not taking place.

Worcester County Recreation and Parks professionals contracted with Surface Solutions, Long Fence, and Musco to complete the project..

Learn more about Worcester County Recreation and Parks’ parks and programs at worcesterrecandparks.org, or on social media at #PlayMDsCoast.

Drinking violations distract guards from life-saving jobs

By Kristin Joson Contributing Writer

(July 26, 2024) The beach may seem like a great place to relax and enjoy alcoholic beverages; however, it is both illegal and unsafe to do so.

Given the combination of heat, the dehydrating and disorienting effects of alcohol, and impaired judgment, you can understand why Ocean City does not allow alcohol on its beaches. Alcohol depletes your body of the vital fluids it needs to keep you up and running throughout the day, and it can also give swimmers a false sense of confidence when it comes to ocean swimming.

Almost every guard has a story about rescuing a swimmer who drank too much alcohol. A person who has a healthy understanding of the ocean and their own swimming ability might not usually head out very far, but after a few drinks (Liquid Courage) they might find themselves feeling braver. They may take other uncharacteristic risks, such as riding a wave into shallow water. Alcohol and water just do not mix. Years ago, a young man celebrating his high school graduation had one

too many drinks and took a headfirst dive into two inches of water; he is now paralyzed from the neck down. Last year, a young adult (under the age of 21) was reported to have consumed too much alcohol, swam against his friends’ advice, and his body was recovered an hour later. These are avoidable tragedies at the hands of alcohol that not only affect the person’s judgment, but also friends and family who must deal with the loss.

Intoxicated swimmers’ reaction time and physical ability are diminished and often lead to the person finding themselves in trouble in the water. If this occurs between the hours of 10 a.m. and 5:30 p.m. they will be lucky enough to be rescued by a lifeguard, although the individuals are often transported to a medical facility for further evaluation. Although we do a very good job of keeping people safe while we are on duty - regardless of how reckless they are (poor decision making) - we unfortunately respond to several off-duty “swimmer in distress” calls each season, some of which are fatal and almost all are alcohol related. If you’re going to drink, don’t swim or drive, and use caution crossing the highway. Most pedestrian accidents that occur each season involve alcohol on the

Alcohol, ocean unsafe to mix

part of the driver or the victim or both.

In addition to water-related accidents, heat-related illnesses also have a direct correlation to alcohol consumption. Historically, as temperatures rise throughout July, so do our onshore medical emergencies. Some alcohol-related incidents can be related to events up to 12 hours before the incident.

In addition to Maryland’s drinking laws, you might not be aware that Ocean City has its own laws and ordinances. Those that relate to alcohol are:

Public Consumption of Alcohol has been reclassified (2012) as a Criminal offense and may lead to your arrest.

Consuming alcohol in public by ANYONE is prohibited.

Carrying an open container of alcohol is a violation. This includes the beach areas, sidewalks and the Boardwalk.

Using false identification to purchase alcohol or enter a bar, is a criminal offense that can result in a fine and/or loss of license.

If your beverage is in a glass container, you are also guilty of violating an additional ordinance (No glass containers are allowed on the beach).

You should note that the law is specific about the consumption of alcohol and has nothing to do with the container it is in (except that glass is also prohibited). Pouring a beverage into a cup is not ac-

ceptable. Some patrons know the law but choose to disobey and take their alcohol to the beach, then attempt to hide the behavior from the Beach Patrol, which is in charge of enforcing Ocean City’s ordinances on the beach. I often find it ironic that a 30 or 40-year-old beach patron will try to hide beer from an 18-year-old lifeguard. The behavior means the lifeguard must then divide their time dealing with challenging patrons and watching the water at the same time. When an SRT leaves the stand to enforce the law (part of their responsibility) which the person is usually already aware of, that causes the surrounding SRTs to not only have to guard their water but now they have the added responsibility of the now vacant stand. Help your SRT so they can concentrate on their primary responsibility of keeping people safe in the ocean, by not attempting to get away with breaking the law.

Obey the laws, listen to your lifeguard, and keep alcohol off the beach. Violation of these laws may require another trip to Ocean City for a court date. Please do your part to keep everyone safe when it comes to alcohol, and always remember “Keep your feet in the sand until the lifeguard’s in the stand!” As added protection for you and your friends, always locate the nearest stand with a guard and swim on that beach.

Who’s Where When

BLU CRAB HOUSE COURTYARD

410-289-3322

24th Street & Coastal Hwy.

Fri., July 26: Bryan Russo

Sat., July 27: Matt Tichon

Sun., July 28: Monkee Paw

Wed., July 31: Cup Of Joe

Thurs., Aug. 1: Matt Tichon

BUXY’S SALTY DOG & DRY DOCK 28

410-289-BUXY

28th Street Coastal Hwy.

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 26: Funk-Shuè & Pistol Whipped

Sat., July 27: The Dunehounds & Dust N Bones

Sun., July 28: Fil Rhythm Band & Al Jesson

Mon., July 29: Dave Sherman & Sydney Smith

Tues., July 30: Ray Holiday & Endless Ember Duo

Wed., July 31: Fil Rhythm & Dust N Bones

Thurs., Aug. 1: Steve O’Boyle & One Night Stand

COCONUTS BEACH BAR

410-289-6846

Oceanfront At Castle

In The Sand Hotel

37th & 38th Streets

Fri., July 26:

Darin Engh & The Mercury Agenda

Sat., July 27: Kevin Poole & Joe Mama & The Bills

Sun., July 28: The Bilenki Duo & Moonstone

Mon., July 29:Nate Clendenen & Remy & Lyons

Tues., July 30:

Matt Tichon Solo & Shortcut Sunny Wed., July 31: Jack Bannon & The Lime Green Band

Thurs., Aug. 1: Kevin Poole Solo & Carly Twigg

COINS PUB

410-289-3100

28th Street Plaza

On Coastal Hwy.

Fri., July 26: Tear The Roof Off Sat., July 27: Jim Long & No More Whiskey

Thurs., Aug. 1: DJ Giddy Up Every Sun.: DJ Wax

CRABCAKE FACTORY BAYSIDE

302-988-5000

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

Sun., July 28: Rick & Regina

Wed., July 29: Chis Diller

CRAWL STREET TAVERN

443-373-2756

Wicomico St., Downtown O.C.

Fri., July 26: Bill Dickson & MTT

Sat., July 27: Dale & The Z Dubs w/Michael Sky (Ticket Event)

FAGER’S ISLAND

410-524-5500

60th St., In The Bay

Fri., July 26:

Denim N Lace, DJ RobCee & Radio Hero

Sat., July 27: Other Brother Darry, Radio Hero & DJ Dnial

Best Beats On The Beach

KEVIN POOLE & JOE MAMA Coconuts Beach Bar: Saturday, July 27

THE HARBOR BOYS Pickles Pub: Saturday, July 27

ROGUE CITIZENS

Harborside: Saturday, July 27

Fager s Island: Monday, July 29

DALE & THE ZDUBS

Crawl Street Tavern: Saturday, July 27 (Ticket Event)

THE DUNEHOUNDS

Carribbean Pool Bar: Saturday, July 27

NO MORE WHISKEY Coins Pub: Saturday, July 27

OPPOSITE DIRECTIONS

Harborside: Sunday, July 28

RICK & REGINA Crabcake Factory: Sunday, July 28

Who’s Where When

Sun., July 28: DJ Mary Jane & Captain Fantastic

Mon., July 29:

Petty Coat Junction, DJ N9NE & Rogue Citizens

Tues., July 30: DJ RobCee Latin Night

Wed., July 31: DJ Wax & DJ Hector

Thurs., Aug. 1: DJ Groove & Josh Christina

GREENE TURTLE WEST

410-213-1500

Route 611, West OC Sat., July 27: TBA

HARBORSIDE 410-213-1846

South Harbor Rd., West End O.C. Fri., July 26: DJ Billy T Sat., July 27: DJ Bigler Sun., July 28:

Opposite Directions & 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 27:

Harbor Boys & Pasadena

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 26 & 27: Doc Marten & The Flannels

Sun. & Mon., July 28 & 29: Awaken

Thurs, Aug. 1: High Voltage - AC/DC Tribute

SEACRETS

410-524-4900

49th St. & Coastal Hwy.

Fri., July 26: Full Circle, DJ E-State, DJ Connair, DJ Bobby O, 9 Mile Roots & Coming Alive

Sat., July 27: DJ Cruz, DJ Connair, DJ Bobby O, DJ Flight, DJ Davie, Coming Alive, Screaming Monkeys & Cherry Crush

Sun., July 2: Triple Rail Turn, DJ Mary Jane, DJ Connair, DJ Ernesto, Zion Reggae Band & Black Hole Sons

Mon., July 29: Blake Haley, DJ Mary Jane, DJ E-State, DJ Wax & Element K

Tues., July 30: DJ Wax, Opposite Directions, DJ Connair, DJ Flight & Turning The Tide

Wed., July 31: DJ E-State, Full Circle Duo, DJ Cruz, DJ Mary Jane, The Benderz & Big Something (Ticket Event)

Thurs., Aug. 1: John McNutt Duo, DJ Cruz, DJ Connair, DJ C-Miller, Feel Free & Kristen & The Noise

THE WEDGE

410-289-5121

806 S. Atlantic Ave.

Fri., July 26: Lime Green & True Country

Sat., July 27: Rymac & Kasey & Jasmine

Sun., July 28: Jason Lee

Mon., July 29: Steve Bowers

Tues., July 30: Troy Mawyer

Wed., July 31: Bryan Dorsey & Jack Bannon

Thurs., Aug. 1: Kasey Briggs

VISTA ROOFTOP

410-390-7905

13801 Coastal Hwy.

Friday, July 26: Steve Kuhn

(AC/DC TRIBUTE) Purple Moose: Thursday, August 1

Things I Like...

By Steve Green

The high road when others go low

Glenn Close in “Hillbilly Elegy” movie

Learning the stories behind the Olympics athletes

Breakfast for dinner

A breeze out of the east on a hot day

Sea glass hunting on an island

Movies with my teens on a rainy day

Local corn on the cob

The exhaustion after a water park day

A weekend of no shoes

Sand piles in my truck

vanishing vanishing OCEAN CITY

WITH BUNK MANN

Ocean City’s original Pier building was completed in 1907 on the Boardwalk at Wicomico Street.

In addition to shops and a dancing pavilion, it also featured a theatre and several refreshments stands. It was also the entrance to the Ocean City Fishing Pier.The building was raised 10 feet above the beach and built on wooden pilings. Part of it actually extended over the water as the beach was very narrow in that era.

The original Pier building had its share of misfortune. In 1918, a snowstorm caused its roof to collapse and the theatre was replaced by a bowling alley. On Dec. 29, 1925, the ill-fated building burned down and was replaced by the current Pier building in 1929.

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

Legion Leathernecks group celebrates first anniversary

(July 26, 2024) The American Legion Post 166 Leathernecks recently celebrated their first anniversary during the Maryland Department of the American Legion annual convention in Ocean City.

The group formed when the Marine Corps League directed the First State Detachment to end its charitable fundraising and volunteer activities in Ocean City and Worcester County. The detachment had been successfully conducting the activities for 33 years without objection from the Marine Corps League national headquarters.

Over the years, along with volunteering to support local civic organizations,

the detachment had raised and distributed close to $100,000 to veterans and local charities in the two-state region.

In response, a number of members of the detachment formed the Post 166 Leathernecks to continue supporting veterans and local charities in both states, Maryland and Delaware. Commander Bob Broderick said in a news release that the members could not be more thrilled to be a part of the Ocean City American Legion family.

“It simply made no sense to us to have an artificial boundary imposed after 33 years of supporting veteran and their families, and local civic organizations in Ocean City, Berlin, Worcester

Members of the American Legion Post 166 Leathernecks set up a tent at the recent prayer service for the country held at the Worcester County Veterans Memorial in Ocean Pines. The group recently celebrated its oneyear anniversary.

Services donated; money raised for veterans, charities

County, Maryland, and Southern Sussex County, Delaware,” he said. “So many have relied on us in the past and we were not going to simply walk away.”

During the Leathernecks’ first year, the group raised money for the Semper Fi & America Fund, which helps combat wounded veterans and their families. It also supported the Believe In Tomorrow Foundation, which has respite home facilities in Ocean City and Fenwick Island, with manpower and financial donations.

The Leathernecks also participated in the Worcester County Veterans Memorial Service, the Bethany-Fenwick Island Chamber of Commerce’s Selbyville Old Timers Day, and held the 2nd annual Military Veteran’s Golf Tournament at the Ocean City Golf Club. Recently, donations were sent to Worcester GOLD, the Cricket Center, and Delaware/Maryland Eastern Shore Easter Seals to support the group’s veteran’s rehabilitation services.

The Leathernecks also helped set up tents and seating at the Worcester County Veterans Memorial when Marie Gilmore, foundation president, and Sen. Mary Beth Carozza (R-38) organized a unity prayer service for the country in the aftermath of the attempted assassination of former President Donald Trump. They also distributed water to attendees who braved 90-degree-plus temperature to participate in the program.

The group’s membership is growing and can include any member of Post 166, whether a veteran, an Auxiliary member, a Son of the American Legion, or an American Legion Rider.

“It’s not just a Marine Corps outfit. Everyone who wants to be a part of supporting our veterans and their families and giving back to community organizations are welcome to join,” Milt Warren the Leathernecks sergeant-at-arms, said in the release.

Meetings are held at 10 a.m., the first Thursday of each month, at Post 166 at 2308 Philadelphia Ave. in Ocean City.

by Steve Green

NThe Adventures of Fatherhood

ow that my son will be a high school junior, I look back at the days of youth sports with varying perspectives. I miss the experience but not the juggling and sacrifices that come with the commitment.

Beckett, 16, grew up playing numerous youth sports including travel soccer for six years. We chose to not participate in anything during the summer months, but from what I see on social media many parents around here are either mid-summer travel season or just wrapping it up. I hope they are spending this money and dedicating all the time because their child wants to do it and not for other reasons connected to unfair expectations and delusions of grandeur.

Over the last few weeks, I have run into travel sports parents in different states of panic and disarray around Berlin. One parent was running out of Food Lion with three cases of Gatorade his wife committed his family to bringing to a lacrosse tournament in Virginia Beach. On another weekend day, another buddy I giggled with had two bags of fried chicken in his arms on the way to a softball tournament in Delaware. When he asked where I was going, I told him I was heading to the beach with family. If his hands were not full, he said a shove of jealousy was coming my way. I clearly recall the mixed emotions he probably had while driving away from the beach toward Frederica, Del. to sweat his butt off watching his daughter compete.

Over the last year or so, as Beckett has turned to focusing on high school sports and other endeavors, Pam and I often remark how we don’t miss the travel sports days. We don’t have regrets about participating, but I confidently can say I am glad they are behind us.

We have a lot of memories from watching our son grow up with a group of other boys. There were good coaches. There were poor coaches. Over time all that blends away into some highlights of your son’s personal achievements while re-

membering the tournament when his team went undefeated and won it all as well as the tourney when they got pounded and didn’t score one goal in four games at a soccer tournament. Some photos are looked back more fondly than others. I truly loved watching my young son compete and still do today as a teen.

An article on parentingteensandtweens.com caught my attention this week on this topic about the bittersweet feelings. Written by Christine Carter, the piece shares some interesting perspectives. I’m not quite as nostalgic about the youth sports days as she is but her points are compelling.

It is hard when this parenting season ends.

… This crazy, stressful, and exciting life of being a sports parent will eventually finish. The reality of this end of an era will hit hard, and you’ll feel the swell of sadness and maybe a little relief as you think through all the details of what this means for your life. … Whatever the case, life will be so very different for both of you.

… You’ll reflect on your life that was always jam-packed with busy schedules where your kid’s sport took up tons of your time. You will remember feeling exhausted from long days and stressed from fitting in all in and spent from weekends of travel.

And you’ll wonder what you will do with all those free nights and weekends, now that you won’t spend them at countless competitions and events?

It all went by so fast, as you supported your kid through all their training and hard work while they grew up doing something they love.

… You’ll remember the endless rides you gave, and all the carpools too, taking your kid to every practice and meeting and special event and program, until they could finally drive themselves.

No more idling in parking lots, waiting for your kid to come out, or getting up before dawn to take them to early-morning workouts.

… No more long-distance travels, your car packed with overnight bags, coolers of drinks, and tons of snacks.

No more venturing out in the rain, sleet, snow, or the sweltering sun to show up for your kid. No more dressing in layers of winter gear or slathering sunblock to withstand the harsh conditions for hours and sometimes days of competitions.

There will be no more sports fees, uniforms and costumes to buy, and spending on gas and hotels. No more ticket purchases for every season and fundraising donations–and you can’t imagine the money you will save.

You won’t have to work all the volunteer jobs, prepare team meals, or show up at all the program’s activities and mandatory meetings too. Your calendar will be empty of all the things sports parents do, and you wonder what you’ll do with all that free time you’ll have now.

… You’re so grateful for all they experienced, however long their sports career was. You just want your kid to be happy, whatever they choose to do. This is how life goes as a parent: we love what they love. And this is how our kids grow up and learn who they are and discover their strengths and passions.

As our kids get older, they start paving their own path they want to follow, and there are many off-ramps to take until they discover the perfect road to travel. And we are still there for it all, still cheering them on along the way.

No matter what sport or activity they’ve been involved in or for how long, closing this chapter of their life and turning the pages to see what comes next, is scary and exciting.

It’s okay for you to feel sad, too.

The days will be so different, and you both will have some adapting to do.

Being a parent of a teen athlete requires serious commitment and sacrifice, but you loved every minute of supporting your kid.

(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.)

Gymnastics coach attended Olympic Trials

(July 26, 2024) From June 27 to July 1, Carmella Solito, the coach and owner of Twisters Gymnastics in Berlin, attended the US Olympic Team Trials Gymnastics trials in Minneapolis, Minnesota, where roughly 40 athletes were narrowed down to represent the United States Women’s Gymnastics Team.

According to a news release, Solito participated as an “industry expert” in the third-level consultant group. During the trials, she played a key role in the national coaches and industry training, leading workshops and running booths focused on gymnastics and children’s activity centers.

Throughout the five-day event, Solito engaged with business owners,

past Olympians, and fellow coaches, attending numerous activities aimed at promoting the trials, the upcoming Olympics, and the sport of gymnastics.

Solito's involvement in the Olympic trials is a testament to her lifelong dedication to gymnastics, the release said. Her career includes coaching local, regional, and national champions. In 2012, Twisters Gymnastics was named the US Gymnastics Club of the Year, and in 2014, Solito was honored as the US Gymnastics Coach of the Year. She has a total of 19 years of experience as a nationally rated judge for both men’s and women’s gymnastics.

In 2016, Solito shifted her focus to

building a facility, yet her passion for gymnastics remained strong. Since 2017, she has traveled extensively, sharing her expertise and helping gymnastics professionals achieve their goals in coaching that support the mental, social, and emotional development of athletes. This year, Solito has returned focus on coaching the Twisters competitive teams at the Berlin Activities Depot complex.

For more information, contact Twisters Gymnastics at Berlin Activities Depot, 410-629-0878, or email csolito@berlinactivitiesdepot.com.

CROSSWORD

SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH

Carmella Solito, coach and owner of Twisters Gymnastics in Berlin, poses for a photo during the US Olympic Team Trials Gymnastics trials in Minneapolis, Minnesota.

ARIES – Mar 21/Apr 20

Aries, show off your true colors and let others see who you are and what makes you tick. You are given the spotlight right now to shine and get noticed even more.

TAURUS – Apr 21/May 21

The full equation may not be revealed this week until you start to unravel some of the pieces, Taurus. You will need to remain patient as the process plays out.

GEMINI – May 22/Jun 21

Gemini, you are discovering more people you can trust and who have your best interests at heart. Continue to surround yourself with these winning individuals.

CANCER – Jun 22/Jul 22

Right now you have to take a leap of faith if you really want to grow, Cancer. Take a trip somewhere you’ve never visited, learn a new language, or make an effort to meet new people.

LEO – Jul 23/Aug 23

Leo, although you might want to keep your aspirations to yourself, it is helpful if you run your ideas past a few trusted people to see if their enthusiasm mirrors your own.

VIRGO – Aug 24/Sept 22

Virgo, you can certainly proceed according to logic, but you might be better off trusting your gut for the time being. It rarely steers you wrong with the bigger things in life.

LIBRA – Sept 23/Oct 23

Libra, people from all corners will come together to help you out, just when you need it most. Now you will get to realize those people who truly support you.

SCORPIO – Oct 24/Nov 22

Scorpio, you may have been sitting on certain information for a while and are not sure when you will reveal it. You’ll know the right time when it comes around.

SAGITTARIUS – Nov 23/Dec 21

Sagittarius, even if your love life has been a little lackluster, you can rest assured that things will be flowing anew very soon. It’s time to rekindle those feelings of love and affection.

CAPRICORN – Dec 22/Jan 20

Now isn’t a good time to think you can fake your emotions, Capricorn. Others will see right through you and read your mind quite easily. It’s better to be honest and open.

AQUARIUS – Jan 21/Feb 18

Someone you haven’t spoken to in a while might be on your mind, Aquarius. This might be the right time to bridge the gap and open lines of communication.

PISCES – Feb 19/Mar 20

Pisces, it can be difficult to delegate to others and not handle everything yourself. But you have to trust in others and support them if you want them to learn and grow.

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.

A caprese tower topped with burrata

By Deborah Lee Walker

Contributing Writer

(July 26, 2024) Food is a universal necessity and should never be taken for granted.

That being said, it is up to the individual cook to look beyond the basic needs and explore one’s creativeness. A state of mind that promotes a journey of discovery introduces a fresh point of view and originality.

In addition, appreciation for the intrinsic and diversified palates must be taken into consideration. One’s heritage also comes into play. A chef has to balance an array of flavors that influence their interpretation.

Another factor is the plating. The plate is a blank canvass, and a cook must build their vision by evoking and stimulating one’s senses through the use of height, color, and texture. Remember, beautification is just as important as the taste.

A Caprese salad is a classic Italian salad consisting of slices of mozzarella, tomatoes, basil, and olive oil. Believe it or not, but a dish that is so simple, is also easy to botch.

In addition to the tomatoes, mozzarella is the main ingredient so it should be a high-quality variety. The classic recipe calls for fiordilatte, or cow’s milk mozzarella, but you can up the flavor with buffalo mozzarella.

Temperature is crucial to a successful Caprese salad. Keep the mozzarella at room temperature and pat dry the cheese to eliminate excess liquid.

The aforementioned mozzarella philosophy also applies to the tomatoes. Tomatoes should be ripe with a slight crunch and preferably sliced the same size as the mozzarella. Room temperature tomatoes have much more flavor than ice cold tomatoes. Also, cherry tomatoes are an option for variation.

Basil is not only decorative but quintessential for finalization of flavors. Since it tends to wither, add the basil to the salad just before serving.

Again, quality is crucial so top-quality extra-virgin olive oil with a delicate, fruity flavor is a must.

The following recipe, Caprese tower topped with burrata, is dedicated to my dear friend Vasco (Lombardi’s owner Emilio “Vasco” Calcara, who passed away July 19).

Fried zucchini adds texture and highlights the colors of the Italian flag.

The salad is topped with a mound of burrata. Burrata is a fresh Italian cheese made from mozzarella and cream.

Vasco introduced me to burrata and I was instantly in love. The creamy center is delectable indeed and a mouthwatering crown for a Caprese tower. Once you cut into the ball of burrata, it oozes all over the salad for a culinary climatic experience.

Vasco is no longer with us, but his legacy carries on. We will never forget you. Ciao!

Caprese Tower Topped with Burrata

Fried Zucchini

8 slices of zucchini, evenly cut

1 ½ cups flour

1 cup unseasoned panko

2 eggs

2 teaspoons water

canola oil for frying

1. Heat oil in a large sauté pan over medium-high heat until temperature reaches 375 degrees.

2. Prepare dredging station by placing ½ cup of flour in a pie pan or plate. The next step is to whisk the eggs and water in a small bowl. Then combine the remaining flour and panko in another pie pan or plate.

3. Press slices of zucchini in the flour

and shake off any excess flour. This step acts as a glue and allows the egg mixture to adhere better to the egg mixture. Dip zucchini in the egg mixture, allowing excess egg mixture to drip off. Then gently press zucchini slices in the panko mixture, making sure the slices are completely covered.

4. Fry until each side obtains a goldenbrown color, about 3 minutes per side.

5. Place cooked zucchini on a cooling rack.

Caprese Tower

12 slices of thick tomatoes, evenly cut 8 slices of fresh mozzarella

4 mounds of burrata

36 basil leaves

1/3 cup reduced balsamic vinegar

kosher salt and freshly ground pepper to taste

Presentation

1. Place a slice of tomato on an appetizer plate. Top with a slice of mozzarella, followed by 3 basil leaves and a slice of fried zucchini. Repeat this process for a second layer of the tower. The last part of the tower consists of a slice of tomato, 3 basil leaves and a mound of burrata. Drizzle reduced balsamic vinegar over the tower and a light dusting of kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Repeat this process for the remaining ingredients.

Secret Ingredient - Distinction

“Art is anything people do with distinction.” — Louis Dudek

The Art League of Ocean City hosts free art projects for kids and families from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., every summer Saturday at the Ocean City Center for the Arts on 94th Street bayside. On this recent morning, the children created surf and skate boards to coincide with the surf/skate exhibit hanging inside the arts center. They are pictured with their creations.

Derlynne Juma of Ocean City

Jaylyn Muriel, of Reading, Pennsylvania

Ethan Dzhokova of Ocean City

Meagan Denham, of Baltimore

Dylan Rossell, of Ocean City

Kayla Diepold, of Bishopville

PHOTOS COURTESY ART LEAGUE OF OCEAN CITY

Ocean City Greek Festival returns to OC this weekend

(July 26, 2024) This weekend, the annual Ocean City Greek Festival is set to commence at the convention center with a full three days of traditional food and entertainment.

Hosted by St. George’s Greek Orthodox Church, the event is billed as the only Greek festival on Maryland’s Eastern Shore.

Festivities are set from noon to 10 p.m., Friday, July 26; 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., Saturday, July 27; and 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., Sunday, July 28.

St. George’s parishioners will be cooking and serving traditional Greek dishes such as gyro, souvlaki, spanakopita, dolmathes, tiropitas, pastitio, mousaka, lamb shanks, Greek lemon chicken, and loukomathes (Greek donut puffs soaked in honey and cinnamon sugar).

There will also be vendors, such as BLT, Etc selling custom cutting boards and sushi trays from, Gems by Anthony selling jewelry, and Etchings selling various imports and arts.

Attendees can also dance to authentic Greek music of The Golden Flame, which will be performing daily.

The St. George’s Greek Orthodox Church’s festival not only raises necessary operational funds but shares the Greek culture, which strengthens its role in the community.

Entry is free and there will be an ATM on site for food and vendor offerings. Most vendors will also accept cards.

Last safe boating course of season planned on Aug. 3

(July 26, 2024) The U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary will host its final Maryland Safe Boating Course of the year next month.

The on-day course is slated for 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Aug. 3, at the Ocean Pines Library at 11107 Cathell Road.

Taking a safe boating class is the best way to prevent accidents, and learn new skills. Attendees will learn the rules of navigation, knot tying, docking, basic maintenance, safety measures, and more.

The Maryland Boating Safety Education Act requires that anyone born after July 1, 1972, must possess a Maryland Basic Boating Safety Certificate to operate a boat in the state of Maryland. Those who attend the class and pass the test will receive a Maryland Boating Certificate. A fee of $20 covers the cost of the course and materials.

Checks should be made payable to USGCAUX 12-05 and mailed to USCGAUX 12-05 P.O. Box 1682, Berlin, Md. 21811. Payments through PayPal are also accepted.

For more information, or to register, call Barry Cohen at 410-935-4807 or email CGAUXOC@Gmail.com.

Calendar

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

Fri., July 26

ST. GEORGE’S GREEK FESTIVAL

Roland E. Powell Convention Center, 4001 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, 1210 p.m. Featuring a wide variety of authentic Greek cuisine, various vendors and dancing to “The Golden Flame.” Free entrance. 410-524-0990, www.greekfestivalocmd.com

KANIN WREN’S TAYLOR SWIFT EXPERIENCE

Ocean City Performing Arts Center, 4001 Coastal Highway, 7-9 p.m. Kanin’s tribute to Taylor Swift is a must see act. VIP experiences available. Tickets: https://www.etix.com/ticket/p/510680 51/kanin-wrens-taylor-swift-experienceocean-city-oc-performing-arts-center.

11TH ANNUAL HUK BIG FISH CLASSIC

M.R. Ducks, 311 Talbot St., Ocean City. Weigh ins are each day from 4-9 p.m. and the festivities and there are vendors setup at 3 p.m. at the Tournament Village in the parking lot. www.bigfishclassic.com, 410-213-0325

CRAFTY WRITERS

Worcester County Library - Snow Hill Branch, 307 N. Washington St., 11 a.m. Bring out your inner author with creative writing games and craft activities. For ages 8 years and older. 410-6323495, www.worcesterlibrary.org

ARTISTIC ARENA: TREASURE CHEST

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 1 p.m. Decorate a treasure chest and fill it with treasure. All material provided. For ages 6-11 years and 12-18 years. 410-2084014, www.worcesterlibrary.org

SEWING SEEDS OF LOVE

Buckingham Presbyterian Church, 20 S. Main St., Berlin, 1-3 p.m. Summer sewing workshop for ages 8 years and older. The group will be working on a fish backpack. Cost is $20. Register: Debbie, 443-430-4948.

KIGHTS OF COLUMBUS BINGO

Fridays - Knights of Columbus, 9901 Coastal Highway, behind St. Luke’s Church. Doors open at 5 p.m., bingo starts at 6:30 p.m. Light snacks available before bingo and at intermission. 410-524-7994

FRIENDS OF THE OCEAN PINES LIBRARY

ANNUAL BOOK SALE

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 6-8 p.m.

Friends only night. Pay $5 each or $10 per family at the door. Thousands of books for sale, most priced at $2.50 or less. The specials room will be open. 410208-4014, www.worcesterlibrary.org

Sat., July 27

ST. GEORGE’S GREEK FESTIVAL

Roland E. Powell Convention Center, 4001 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Featuring a wide variety of authentic Greek cuisine, various vendors and dancing to “The Golden Flame.” Free entrance. 410-524-0990, www.greekfestivalocmd.com

11TH ANNUAL HUK BIG FISH CLASSIC

M.R. Ducks, 311 Talbot St., Ocean City. Weigh ins are each day from 4-9 p.m. and the festivities and there are vendors setup at 3 p.m. at the Tournament Village in the parking lot. www.bigfishclassic.com, 410-213-0325

FURNACE TOWN SUMMER MUSIC SERIES

Furnace Town Historic Site (Nassawango Iron Furnace), 3816 Old Furnace Road, Snow Hill, 5-8 p.m. Music by The Stringbuzzards (Eastern Shore bluegrass). Beer, wine, burgers and dogs available. Admission cost is $10 for adults and $5 for kids 5-15 years. www.furnacetown.org/events

FRIENDS OF THE OCEAN PINES LIBRARY ANNUAL BOOK SALE

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road. Dealers only from 8-10 a.m. Open to general public from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Thousands of books for sale, most priced at $2.50 or less. The specials room will be open. 410-208-4014

RUNAWAY BRIDE FUN RUN/WALK

Main St., Berlin, 14 S. Main St., 8 a.m.

To participate or sponsor visit www.WorcesterGOLD.org. Info: contact@worcestergold.org, 443-235-6525.

OCEAN CITY CENTURY TENNIS

TOURNAMENT

Ocean City Racquet Center, 104 61st St., 9 a.m. Must sign up as a team. Cost is $40 per team. Register at the Ocean City Racquet Center. https://oceancitymd.gov/ oc/departments/recreation-parks/racquet/, 410-524-8337

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 Assateague Island National Seashore. A different adventure each week. For all ages. 410-641-0650, 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

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 28

ST. GEORGE’S GREEK FESTIVAL

Roland E. Powell Convention Center, 4001 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Featuring a wide variety of authentic Greek cuisine, various vendors and dancing to “The Golden Flame.” Free entrance. 410-524-0990, www.greekfestivalocmd.com

11TH ANNUAL HUK BIG FISH CLASSIC

M.R. Ducks, 311 Talbot St., Ocean City. Weigh ins are each day from 4-9 p.m. and the festivities and there are vendors setup at 3 p.m. at the Tournament Village in the parking lot. www.bigfishclassic.com, 410-213-0325

SUNDAES IN THE PARK WITH FIREWORKS

Northside Park, 200 125th St., Ocean City, 7-9 p.m. Live music by “Guys in Thin Ties” (alternative 80’s band), kidfriendly entertainment, ice cream and fireworks. https://www.ococean.com/ things-to-do/free-family-fun/sundaesin-the-park/

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, distillers, creators and artists. Also free kids art projects, petting zoo, face painting and live music. Today’s market will feature a visit from Santa. https://berlinmainstreet.com/farmersmarket/

BERLIN FLEA MARKET

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

SEWING FOR A CAUSE

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

JEHOVAH’S WITNESSES MEETING

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

Mon., July 29

FRIENDS OF THE OCEAN PINES LIBRARY ANNUAL BOOK SALE

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Enjoy half price on your entire purchase, specials room included. All proceeds benefit the library. 410-208-4014, www.worcesterlibrary.org

STORY TIME: ROBOTS

Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 10:30 a.m. Join in for a silly boot story time filled with store, games and songs. For ages 0-5 years. 410-524-1818, www.worcesterlibrary.org

LOCAL AUTHOR ANDY NUNEZ: PIRATES OF THE EASTERN SHORE

Worcester County Library - Pocomoke Branch, 301 Market St., 4 p.m. Join local author Andy Nunez and sail with some of the greatest pirates of history as you cruise with waters of Delmarva. For all ages. 410-957-0878, 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, 302-242-7062.

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 30

STORY TIME: ‘SENSORY PLAY’

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

STEM ADVENTURE WITH THE SCIENCE GUYS

Worcester County Library - Snow Hill Branch, 307 N. Washington St., 10:30

a.m. Adventure reveals challenges of defying gravity and electrifying obstacles, all while exploring science principles to navigate and escape. For ages 6-11 years. 410-632-3495, www.worcesterlibrary.org

PLAY TIME

Worcester County Library - Pocomoke Branch, 301 Market 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. 410-957-0878, www.worcesterlibrary.org

STEM ADVENTURE WITH THE SCIENCE GUYS

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 2 p.m. Adventure reveals challenges of defying gravity and electrifying obstacles, all while exploring science principles to navigate and escape. For ages 6-11 years. 410-208-4014, www.worcesterlibrary.org

JR. LIFEGUARD CAMP

Ocean Pines Sports Core Pool, 11144 Cathell Road, 5:30-7 p.m., July 30-Aug. 1. Must be a strong swimmer. Ages 7 years and older. Cost is $75 for residents, $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. 410-641-4882, www.htcanglican.org/activities.

Wed., July 31

MOVIES ON THE BEACH

Carousel Oceanfront Hotel & Condos, 11700 Coastal Highway, Ocean City. 8:30-11:59 p.m., Featuring “The Little Mermaid (Live Action).” Enjoy free movies on the beach every Wednesday through the summer. Movie lineup: https://www.ococean.com/things-todo/free-family-fun/

ADVENTURE BACK IN TIME TO FURNACE TOWN

Furnace Town Historic Site (Nassawango Iron Furnace), 3816 Old Furnace Road, Snow Hill, 9:45 a.m.-1 p.m. Tour through time and soak in the history of this outdoor museum that recreates a 19th century community. Registration required: 443-783-6164.

PLAY TIME

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 10 a.m. Join in for imaginative play and social interaction. For ages 0-5 years. 410-2084014, www.worcesterlibrary.org

STEM ADVENTURE WITH THE SCIENCE GUYS

Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 10:3011:30 a.m. Adventure reveals challenges of defying gravity and electrifying obstacles, all while exploring science principles to navigate and escape. For ages 6-11 years. 410-524-1818, www.worcesterlibrary.org

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, HARRY!

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 11 a.m. Accio patrons! Join in for a spellbinding adventure with crafts and fun games. For all ages. 410-208-4014, www.worcesterlibrary.org

MOVIE MATINEE

Worcester County Library - Pocomoke Branch, 301 Market St., 2 p.m. It’s The Boy Who Lived’s birthday. Celebrate with a movie, crafts and light refreshments. For all ages. Registration required: 410-957-0878. 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 - Worcester 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.

PAINT & SIP

Ocean Pines Community Center, 235 Ocean Parkway, 6-8 p.m. Cost is $27 and includes wine and crackers. Register: 410-641-7052.

Thurs., Aug. 1

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 “Hot Sauce Band” (classic favorites with a spicy twist). 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 “The Swingtime Dolls.” Free familyfriendly entertainment. Bring chairs and blankets. BYOB permitted, concessions for sale. Held Thursdays through Aug. 22. 410-641-7052

CPAP MASK FITTING

Atlantic General Hospital’s Sleep Disorders Diagnostic Center, 9733 Healthway Drive, Berlin. For patients who are having trouble adjusting to their CPAP equipment. The service is free but requires an appointment: Robin Rohlfing, 410-641-9726.

PEACH FESTIVAL 2024!

St. Peter’s Lutheran Church, 10301 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Peaches, ice cream, smoothies, flea market, vendor tables, silent auction, food, kids activities and health fair. Holiday room and music. Book and media room. 410-524-7474, http://www.stpetersoc.com

SPIDER-MAN DAY

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 10:30 a.m. Discover Spider-Man’s origins and celebrate him on National Spider-Man Day. Come dressed as your favorite Spiderman. For ages 6-11 years. 410-208-4014

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

OC CHESS CLUB

Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 10:30 a.m. Enjoy a relaxing game of chess every Thursday at the library. 410-5241818, www.worcesterlibrary.org

STEM ADVENTURE WITH THE SCIENCE GUYS

Worcester County Library - Pocomoke Branch, 301 Market St., 2 p.m. Adventure reveals challenges of defying gravity and electrifying obstacles, all while exploring science principles to navigate and escape. For ages 6-11 years. 410-

957-0878, www.worcesterlibrary.org

STEM ADVENTURE WITH THE SCIENCE GUYS

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

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

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

CHOOSE YOUR OWN ADVENTURE

Pocomoke library, 301 Market St., during August. Choose a mystery adventure from the display to read. Fill out the brief form inside and return it to the library to be entered into the drawing for a prize. 410-957-0878, www.worcesterlibrary.org

CREATIVE KIDS CORNER

Ocean City library, 10003 Coastal Highway, during August. Come grab an art kit to create at the library or take it with you. Most supplies included. For ages 05 years and 6-11 years. 410-524-1818, www.worcesterlibrary.org

STREAM STATION

Berlin library, 13 Harrison Ave., during August. Kids up to 11 years can visit the STEAM Station to take part in crafts and activities exploring science, technology, reading, engineering, art and math. Take a craft kit home too. 410-641-0650, www.worcesterlibrary.org

TEEN STREAM STATION

Berlin library, 13 Harrison Ave., during August. Each hands-on activity will focus on art, math, science, engineering or technology. Create jewelry using binary code, construct a flying glider, design your own city out of recycled material and more. For ages 11 years and older. 410-641-0650, www.worcesterlibrary.org

Crossword answers from page 70

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Ocean City Award

For the third consecutive year, Nurse Professionals Home Care has been selected for the 2024 Ocean City Award in the Home Care category by the Ocean City Award Program. The selection also places Nurse Professionals Home Care into the Business Hall of Fame.

Anita Logsdon Battista is the president and owner of Nurse Professionals Home Care.

Each year, the Ocean City Award Program identifies companies that we believe have achieved exceptional marketing success in their local community and business category. These are local companies that enhance the positive image of small business through service to customers and the community. The companies help make the Ocean City area a great place to live, work, and play.

Various sources of information were gathered and analyzed to choose the winners in each category. The 2024 Ocean City Award Program focuses on quality, not quantity. Winners are determined based on the information gathered both internally by

the Ocean City Award Program and data provided by third parties.

TidalHealth recognitions

TidalHealth Primary Care and TidalHealth Specialty Care recently announced that Tara Bonnaville and Latisia Holland are the Team Members of the Month for June.

Bonnaville is a certified clinical medical assistant at TidalHealth Gastroenterology in Ocean Pines.

She was nominated by RN Brenda Smith for demonstrating the values of accountability, quality and service

“Tara has been an exceptional team player at our office, always helping as needed. When we are shortstaffed, she has taken on extra responsibilities helping me while I cover other duties for other providers,” Smith said. “She has also been instrumental in training and being a preceptor to new hires. Many of us go to Tara first when there is a computer

issue. Tara consistently goes above and beyond in her duties, not only excelling in her own tasks, but readily helping her coworkers. Her ability to multitask and prioritize ensures our office operates smoothly and efficiently, contributing to the overall quality of patient care. I can always count on her to go the extra mile.”

Holland is a patient service representative at TidalHealth Gastroenterology in Ocean Pines.

She was nominated by Jacqueline Steele for demonstrating the value of accountability.

“Latisia is a great co-worker. I started working for TidalHealth at the end of February and she has trained me very well on my job,” Stelle said. “She is patient while training me as I ask her several questions. I have learned a lot from her, especially with EPIC. The patients really like her, and she has a great personality. Latisia is very pleasant to patients on the phone and in person. She is a great asset to TidalHealth.”

REAL ESTATE MARKETPLACE

Tara Bonnaville

Latisia Holland

Advantages of solar systems

By Lauren Bunting

Contributing Writer

(July 26, 2024) Solar panels on a home can be a great selling advantage, one that provides very affordable utility bills.

This type of technology is called a solar photovoltaic, or PV, panel system, or solar system. Solar systems may include all components, solar panels, inverters, charge controllers, batteries, battery charge controller, backup generator, solar array disconnect, power meter, power converter and cables, if applicable, that are presently in place on the property.

But, the finances of a solar system can be complicated so full disclosure on the system and any remaining loan payments, lease payments, transfer fees, or warranties should be fully disclosed when a property is listed.

The financial status of a solar system can be any of the following:

• Owned by seller free and clear (not subject to an existing lease, power purchase agreement or loan

• Subject to an existing lease agreement, power purchase agreement (PPA) or financed by an unpaid loan

An agreement in the contract of sale needs to be specified as to who will be paying for any remaining balance left on a solar loan, or whether an existing lease agreement needs to be as-

sumed by the buyer. This is a negotiable element of a contract of sale, so it is possible that the seller pays off the solar system financing or buy outs/pre pays the remainder of the solar system lease or PPA and shall include the solar system as part of the sale of the property and convey the system to the buyer at closing.

The other option is the seller can require that the buyer pay any remaining loans or lease agreements. But, it is important that the seller delivers to the buyer the most recent version of the solar system lease, PPA, or solar system financing and all of the solar system documents along with the contact information to the solar system company or loan servicer, as the new buyer will need to obtain approval to assume the lease or loan. This process can be time consuming, so starting this early in the sale process is essential.

Buyers can also impose a buyer review period or due diligence to give them time to review the documents and terms of the solar system. This is the timeframe when the buyer can review the costs, insurability, operation and/or value of the solar system. This may include, but is not limited to: age, maintenance, solar company or loan servicer fees, end of lease terms, output and production guarantees, utility bills, grid tie-in, payment increases, warranties, homeowner’s insurance coverage, and taxes.

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

Lilley heading to Paris

Continued from Page 3

ballet, and I competed competitively in both of them. Then when they started skateboarding, it was a no-brainer. I was going to try it.”

Her hard work would soon pay off. In 2018, while driving across the country with her family, Lilley was invited to join a skateboarding competition for girls out in California. It was there, she said, that she set her sights on becoming a top skateboarder.

“When I got there and saw the level of girls’ skateboarding, I was in complete shock. I couldn’t believe it …,” she said. “I didn’t know girls could skate this good, and I didn’t know it was possible because I’d never seen it growing up on the East Coast. It was just so inspiring and motivating to watch.”

In 2018, Lilley moved to Oceanside, Calif., where she would spend the ensuing years training and competing alongside other athletes. Today, she is ranked No. 14 globally and third in America. And while her career is marked by several accomplishments – including placing second at both the 2023 X Games Japan and the 2023 Red Bull Bowl Rippers France — she said this week she is eager to prove herself on the world’s biggest athletic stage.

“It’s such a high just being there and competing and meeting all these amazing athletes and being on the biggest stage, showing and doing what I love and hopefully inspiring other young girls to get out there and skateboard as well,” she said. “It’s gonna be so hard to just come home from that.”

Lilley added that she was eager to return to her hometown, where friends and family still live.

“I grew up skating at Ocean Bowl Skate Park. It’s such a cool little park and it’s such a good community there,” she said. “Everyone’s so supportive, and it was such a great place to start skateboarding.”

The women’s park skateboarding competition begin Aug. 6.

Berlin asked to support state’s ‘bottle bill’

Environment club says drink container deposit will limit plastic pollution

By Tara Fischer Staff Writer

(July 26, 2024) Representatives from the Lower Eastern Shore Group of the Maryland Chapter of the Sierra Club urged the Berlin Town Council to advocate for the passage of the Beverage Container Recycling, Refund, and Litter Reduction Program when the 2025 session of the Maryland General Assembly kicks off in January.

The group’s vice chair, Jacky Grindrod, and executive committee member, Cindy Dillon, addressed the Berlin Mayor and Council during the public comments section of their Monday, July 22 meeting.

“I know that is typically not what you are working on, but I am aware that the opinion of the Berlin council is very valuable when talking with state legislators who will be responsible for passing this bill,” Dillon said, addressing the body.

The Sierra Club is an environmental organization that describes itself as dedicated to “exploring, enjoying, and protecting the wild places of the earth; practicing and promoting the responsi-

ble use of the earth’s ecosystems and resources; educating and enlisting humanity to protect and restore the quality of the natural and human environment; and using all lawful means to carry out these objectives.”

Grindrod and Dillon, members of the Lower Eastern Shore chapter, presented themselves as a “useful resource for Berlin and its areas when environmental issues arise.”

They introduced the “Bottle Bill” to the council and asked the local government to push for its passage in January. The legislation calls for placing a 10—to 15-cent deposit on all beverage containers, including plastic, glass, and metal, at the initial purchase. The money would be refunded to the buyer when the materials are returned for recycling.

Larger venues, such as restaurants, bars, and hotels, would not have to deliver their containers anywhere. They would receive their deposits back when the system operators picked up the drink cases.

The bill, which Dillon maintains would be self-financing from registration and producer fees, raw material sales, penalties, and unclaimed deposits, aims to address the nearly four billion containers that end up in landfills, waterways, and streets in Maryland every year.

‘The real success comes from actually and permanently reducing the amount of virgin plastic used in manufacturing products. We need to improve the recyclability of the products and increase their recycling capture.’

Jacky Grindrod,

vice chair, Maryland Chapter of the Sierra Club

According to the executive member, approximately 5.2 billion beverage vessels are sold in the state annually, but only 23% are recycled. States with deposit programs see up to 90% of their drink containers recycled.

like the Bottle Bill would reduce plastic pollution and improve waterways.

“Plastic is made of chemicals and fossil fuels,” she said. “In all its forms, the production, processing, and disposal of plastic causes serious health issues for many people, like asthma, chronic coughing, rashes, and skin allergies…We must work to reduce the amount of plastic currently poisoning us and our children.”

“We can reduce the harm to some degree by using metal drinking cups and reusing single-use plastic bags and straws and takeout containers,” the vice chair continued. “…the real success comes from actually and permanently reducing the amount of virgin plastic used in manufacturing products. We need to improve the recyclability of the products and increase their recycling capture.”

Dillon said that the return methods may be bag drops or reverse vending machines. “There is a variety of technology that would be used for this,” she said.

The potential law was filed as Senate Bill 642 during the 2024 session of the Maryland General Assembly. While the legislation did not pass last year, advocates intend to reintroduce it in 2025.

Grindrod argued that protections

Dillon also noted that the program may even save local governments money. Materials would be diverted from costly landfill incinerators, and town councils could institute their redemption facilities and receive a handling fee per container.

The 2025 Maryland General Assembly’s 90-day legislative session will convene in Annapolis on January 8. Once the Bottle Bill is properly filed, it will receive an identification number.

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Ocean Pines GM provides monthly update

By Tara Fischer Staff Writer

(July 26, 2024) Ocean Pines Association General Manager John Viola gave his monthly report at the Board of Directors Saturday, July 20 meeting, where he addressed maintenance efforts, upcoming renovations, and enhancement initiatives.

The bridge near the golf course is undergoing updates. The wing walls and piles are being replaced, per the Maryland State Highway Administration inspection, for a total cost of $149,500. The OPA board approved the developments at the Sept. 30, 2023, meeting.

Viola said that since the June meeting, it had been brought to his attention that wooden boards at the Beach Club have been popping up, and nails have been exposed. The

general manager noted that he instructed the community’s public works department to repair the unsafe conditions immediately. The issues have since been resolved.

Boards at the Swim and Racquet Club have also been replaced. “We got a couple of emails, and we were on it right away,” Viola said.

Additionally, the association is considering installing jet ski docks at Swim and Racquet, as there are currently a few slips that are too small for boats. While Viola is confident that the initiative will progress, he said he still needs to confer with the appropriate committees.

OPA is addressing safety concerns on a pathway at Swim and Racquet.

Viola said the Aquatics Advisory Committee reported that the area had “major cracks.”

“This walkway was a situation where you could hit your foot or trip,” he said.

While OPA works to get an estimate on a thin layer of asphalt, the uneven surface has been amended with a cold patch.

Additional sand and mulch were installed at the dog park for $5,600, and public works also added mulch to all the playgrounds for $6,900. Inside décor, including panel dividers and artificial plants, was placed in the Yacht Club for roughly $2,000, and the renovated Veterans Memorial Pavilion is on track to be completed by November.

The general manager touched on the cured-in-place-pipe lining

drainage restoration approved at the March 23 meeting. CIPP is a trenchless rehabilitation method used to repair existing pipes.

The contractor, Pelican Underground, began the project on July 19. The areas being updated are 28 Admiral Avenue, 1221 and 1223 Carrollton Lane, Capetown Road, 22 Harpoon Road, 34, 44, and 84 Lookout Point, 57 Ocean Parkway, 7 and 52 Pinehurst Road, 27 and 48 Seafarer Lane, 192 Team Circle, White Horse Drive, and the 18th green and the 10th tee box at the golf course. The initiative yielded a total cost of $210,637.

“We all believe this was the best thing we ever did for our pipes,” Viola said.

Route 589 path for biking, walking remains local goal

By Tara Fischer Staff Writer

(July 26, 2024) Worcester County Bike and Pedestrian Coalition Chair

Patti Stevens updated the Ocean Pines community on the group’s accomplishments and priorities at last weekend’s Ocean Pines Association Board of Directors meeting.

The organization was formed in October last year to increase road safety for walkers and bikers.

“[Safety] has been an issue that has come out in community surveys, as there has been an increase nationally and state-wide of traffic incidents for bikers and pedestrians,” Stevens said on July 20.

In Ocean Pines, General Manager John Viola nominated Chief of Police Tim Robinson and Public Works Director Eddie Wells to participate in

the coalition. Stevens said with their help, the safety group has “gotten to work.”

Since the coalition’s founding, crosswalks and yellow bike and pedestrian warning signs have been added to the five roads that the Sherwood Forest Trails cross, including Robin Hood Trail. Robinson has also installed speed monitors along Ocean Parkway, which Stevens said have deterred residents and visitors from driving over the limit.

In February, a crosswalk was also implemented on 589 from the South Gate Pond to the Racetrack Road and Manklin Creek intersection. Stevens said that since the path was completed, she has seen OPA residents biking to Food Lion and kids crossing with fishing poles often.

See COUNTY Page 85

VOLUNTEERS APPRECIATED

The Kiwanis Club of Ocean Pines-Ocean does a lot of fundraising to support local youth and the community. On May 2, a successful Bingo Night was held at the Sterling Tavern in Berlin and two Kiwanis Club members who obtained gifts from local merchants and made up baskets as the prizes were issued appreciation certificates. Pictured with their certificates are Tom Flanagan and Kathy Hill, along with Kiwanis Club President Bob Wolfing.

County group focusing on safety

Continued from Page 84

The 589 project was not created solely due to the coalition but rather a collaborative effort from Stevens and her group and citizen, county, and police input. The safety organization's chair said the initiative had been discussed for over 10 years.

In May, Stevens said that she and Robinson worked together on a grant submission to the Maryland State Highway Office and were awarded approximately $5,000 to fund community safety education, a bike rodeo, and the purchase of lights and reflectors.

“About half the J-1 students work in places where the uniform is all black,” the coalition chair said. “McDonalds and the Casino are a few examples. You can’t see them at night. We ordered through this grant reflecting strips and lights that will be given out through the Worcester County Chamber of Commerce, and the police chief and his team will have them in their cars so they can give out lights and reflectors when they see people walking and biking at night.”

Stevens outlined the group's shortterm potential projects, including a

Route 589 trail. This would consist of a 10-foot-wide path set back from the road with a grass or concrete barrier. She also mentioned a six- to sevenfoot-wide Ocean Parkway on-road trail on the existing shoulder. The area is already informally used for pedestrians and bikers; however, colored markings would be added to the lane.

The organization has secured feedback from residents, who note that crosswalks and signs are needed in major recreation areas with “significant bike and walk traffic.” This includes the area across Ocean Parkway by the North Fire Station to White Horse Park.

Citizens have also pushed for a walk and biking route out of South Ocean Pines onto 589, “possibly along the road from Triple Crown to the new light at the Atlantic General Hospital Gudelsky Medical Center.”

The Worcester County Bike and Pedestrian Coalition is dedicated to creating a safe community for nondrivers. Stevens said that the work group has hit the ground running and is lucky to have obtained members who all tirelessly contribute.

CIAL L N COMMER

PHOTO COURTESY DAVIS J. LANDIS SR.

BUDGETS FOR WORCESTER COUNTY

The Worcester County Commissioners adopted the expense budgets for the General Fund on June 4, 2024 and Enterprise Funds on June 18, 2024, all of which became effective as of July 1, 2024.

SOLID WASTE ENTERPRISE FUND

Planning underway for 51st annual White Marlin Open

By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor

(July 26, 2024) Anglers, spectators and tournament organizers eagerly await the return of this year’s White Marlin Open.

The White Marlin Open, the world’s largest offshore billfishing tournament, will return to Ocean City Aug. 5-9. Throughout the week, anglers will have a chance to reel in white and blue marlin, tuna, wahoo, swordfish or dolphin to secure some of the $10.5 million in estimated prize money this season.

“We work very hard year-round to put on a world class event for both our participants and our spectators,” said Sasha Motsko, one of the tournament directors. “We are thrilled and

humbled that we are able to continue on with the event my father started over 50 years ago and look forward to another great year.”

As per tradition, hundreds of spectators will gather at the Ocean City Inlet early Monday morning, Aug. 5, to watch participating boats head out to sea for the first of five fishing days. This year, directors expect more than 400 boats and over 3,500 anglers to compete in the tournament.

“At this time, we have well over 100 boats pre-registered,” Motsko said.

Last year, tournament directors celebrated the event’s 50th anniversary with a new white marlin “Winner Take All” category. Motsko said

See ESTIMATED Page 88

FILE PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH

Some vessels are pictured returning from the fishing canyons off Ocean City on the last day of last year’s White Marlin Open.

the added entry level will once again be offered at the 51st annual White Marlin Open. She also highlighted increases in tuna added entries.

“That could increase the purse for those categories,” she said.

Organizers expect the momentum of last year’s milestone event to continue into 2024. In addition to watching the weigh-ins at host Harbour Island, spectators can also take part in the action at Marlin Fest, which will be held at the Inlet from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. each day of the tournament. The festival footprint has expanded to include live music, food and drinks, vendors and a livestream of the White Marlin Open weigh-ins.

“Families, fishing enthusiasts, and anglers alike are invited to bring beach chairs and blankets to spread out and enjoy music, live streams of the tournament weigh-ins, and views of the boats as they bring in their daily catches to nearby Harbour Island,” a news release reads. “Vendors will be onsite selling a variety of items including official Marlin Fest merchandise and White Marlin Open gear, as well as food and alcohol.”

Marlin Fest will once again support the Ocean City Reef Foundation, an organization dedicated to sustained improvement of recreational fishing and diving in Maryland's coastal waters. The White Marlin Open also invites anglers to donate their catches. This year, the tournament will be partnering with Catch N Carry and the Maryland Food Bank to clean, portion, flash freeze and distribute donated fish directly to local food pantries throughout the Eastern

Shore.

“It's the ongoing support from our fishing community, enduring sponsors, partners, and our enthusiastic fans that transforms this event into something unforgettable every year," Motsko said in the news release.

Held annually in Ocean City, the White Marlin Open awards prize money for catches of white and blue marlin, tuna, wahoo, dolphin and swordfish. Dubbed the “the world’s largest billfishing tournament,” the White Marlin Open has doled out more than $105 million for the top catches since the tournament's inception in 1974.

In its first year, the tournament attracted 57 boats and 150 anglers and paid out $20,000 in prize money. Since that time, however, the White Marlin Open has become the largest billfishing tournament and holds the world record for the most money payouts for any fishing tournament.

Last year, 400 boats and 3,500 anglers participated in the White Marlin Open, and a top prize of $6.2 million was awarded for the heaviest blue marlin. No qualifying white marlin was brought to the scales.

With the tournament just days away, Motsko said excitement is building. But she said it is not too late to participate. She said those seeking a charter or a crew can visit the Facebook page “White Marlin Open Charter Boats and Anglers.”

“It’s a Facebook page that is dedicated to connecting people,” she explained.

For additional information on this year’s White Marlin Open, visit whitemarlinopen.com.

Blood Bank of Delmarva makes ‘urgent call’

Officials seeking donations as surge in usage leads to local inventory shortage

(July 26, 2024) Blood Bank of Delmarva officials recently issued what a news release called an “urgent call” for donations of type O+ and Oblood.

“This dangerous shortage is impacting local hospitals and part of a disturbing national trend, with Type O shortages reported across the U.S.,” the release said. “The current inventory of type O blood is the lowest it’s been since the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic.”

Further complicating the shortage, a surge in blood usage was reported last week. The release said seven massive transfusion protocols occurred across the region. The protocols involve administering 10 or more units of blood to a patient within 24 hours but can require 50 or more lifesaving blood products per patient, placing strain on the supply.

Type O+ is the most common

blood type, representing nearly 40% of the U.S. population. Type O- is the universal blood type and is commonly used in emergency settings.

“A shortage of both types, both locally and nationally, poses serious concerns for our healthcare system, and the need for donors is critical,” the release said.

The regional; blood bank is also seeing typical challenges that accompany the summer. Seasonal travel, school breaks, and a rise in traumatic accidents often strain the blood supply and lead to shortages in the area.

Blood Bank of Delmarva official are calling on anyone with Type O blood to make an immediate donation.

“We are appealing to our community to step up and donate blood, especially those who are type O. The summer months are always a challenging time for the blood supply, but we are currently experiencing an even lower level of this crucial blood type than at the start of the pandemic,” Steve Corse, executive director at Blood Bank of Delmarva, said. “Following the recent surge in blood usage, our local inventory is

critically low, and we need immediate support to ensure that every patient receives the lifesaving care they need.”

Those who want to give blood can find a location online.

Blood donors can give every 56 days, and platelet donors can give twice per month. The Food and Drug Administration recently lifted several blood donor eligibility restrictions. Current eligibility guidelines can be viewed on the blood bank’s website delmarvablood.org or by calling 1-888-8-BLOOD-8.

Brick fundraiser underway for Station 3 furnishments

in the building. The Ocean City Hotel-Motel-Restaurant Association, for instance, sponsored the kitchen.

(July 26, 2024) The new firehouse on 65th Street and Coastal Highway may be a cutting-edge facility, as Ocean City Fire Department Chief Richie Bowers told a moderate gathering of supporters in the apparatus bay last Wednesday, but it’s going to need furnishings and equipment before it can become anything at all.

Hence last Tuesday’s fund-raising pitch and tour of the 23,500-squarefoot structure for local businesspeople and department supporters. Although the Town of Ocean City put up $10.6 million to build Station 3, that doesn’t cover the cost of furniture and equipment needed to make the station functional by this fall.

Ryan Whittington, the department’s community engagement officer, told his audience that the department needs to sell more legacy bricks and tiles to help pay for these improvements. They range in size from 4-by-8 to 12-by-12 inches, materials (brick or granite) and in prices from $100 to $4,000.

The department also continues to sell sponsorships for various rooms

“This is the crown jewel of Ocean City as it relates to public safety, Bowers told the crowd before it departed for a Harrison Group-sponsored reception across the street at the Holiday Inn, where the appeal continued.

In a statement this week, Whittington said the fire department is hoping to achieve its $300,000 fundraising goal through its legacy brick fundraiser, room sponsorships and customizable granite tiles, which will display donors’ messages. Items that need to be purchased include office chairs, tables, operational supplies for logistics and EMS, shelving units, state-of-the-art display screens for computer-aided dispatch, gym and fitness equipment, and training tables and chairs.

“By handling the design, selection, and purchasing internally, OCFD has managed to lower the initial cost estimates from $500,000, saving thousands of dollars that can be redirected to other vital community services,” he said. “We are grateful to the Harrison Group for their recent fundraising event, which has significantly contributed to our efforts. Fundraising will continue through

PHOTO COURTESY OCEAN CITY FIRE DEPARTMENT

The first memorial legacy bricks that have arrived for the new Fire Station 3 on 65th Street are pictured.

Fixtures, equipment needed as facility nears completion

January 2025, allowing community members to be a part of this important project even after the ribbon-cutting ceremony. Expected move in date is September.”

Legacy bricks for the new Ocean City Fire Department’s Fire Station 3, under construction on 65th Street, have begun arriving. The fire department posted a photo on its Facebook page earlier this week of the first pallets of bricks with memorial tributes. The post said that orders placed online before Aug. 1 will be installed before the ribbon cutting for the midtown station, which is tentatively set for October.

The new, state-of-the-art facility, which will replace the station on 74th Street, broke ground in March of last year in front of the Public Safety Building. Crews have been working diligently since to bring the much larger and more advanced building under roof.

When finished, the station will contain a tall and massive four-bay garage equipped to store up to 12 stacked fire apparatus, a decontamination station complete with a full washroom to eliminate risks of can-

cer and other illnesses when personnel return from calls, an enhanced amount of storage space, offices and sleeping rooms, a fitness center, training areas, and more.

After years of planning and discussions, City Council members approved $10.6 million for construction costs in a split majority in late 2022. To supplement the total, community donations and money raised from the memorial brick fundraiser will help pay for furniture, fixtures and equipment. As of last month, Whittington said about 700 bricks dedicated to families, local businesses and individuals had been sold.

The department is also offering room sponsorships, and so far the apparatus bay has been sold for $50,000 to the Bresler family and the Robert I. Schattner Foundation — which is also providing a dollar-fordollar matching grant up to $75,000 for donors donations — and the kitchen has been sold to the Ocean City Hotel-Motel-Restaurant Association.

To learn more about the fundraiser, or to buy a brick, visit www.ocbrick.com.

EXPERIENCE YOU CAN TRUST

ATLANTIC DENTAL COSMETIC

DENTISTRY

Opinions

IT world comes crashing down

Not to suggest that technological advancements aren’t a good thing, but it is more than a little concerning that society is so enamored of the so-called ease of use and efficiency of computer tech that it fails to protect itself adequately in the event that it stops working.

That was the case with last week’s CrowdStrike outage, which trickled all the way down to the local level and knocked out Ocean City’s fire alarm systems and the auto-dialers that contact 911.

To be clear, Ocean City did nothing wrong. The problem was and is that the global network to which its emergency communications are attached is so intertwined that a single glitch in one location becomes everyone’s glitch around the world in a manner of minutes.

Worse, the heart of this network is dependent on just a couple of providers, which means there’s no third-party off-ramp or detour available when things go south.

Inexplicably, society is so confident that something like CrowdStrike’s update misfire will never happen that no one seemed to think that developing an emergency backup might be a good idea.

That, however, is not how the world looks at things these days, as we routinely nest our technological marvels together like multiple plugs in an overloaded socket.

The greater issue businesses, government, the public and the tech industry ought to be addressing is the prevailing belief that digital is automatically better than analog. That isn’t always the case.

The “ease of use” or the personal convenience factor often used to justify a switch to higher tech sometimes doesn’t create less work as much as it shifts the work to someone else.

Nevertheless, society adheres to the belief that new is good and anything less is outmoded, and there’s no denying that our software-driven lives are much better for it.

Except when, unexpectedly, it doesn’t work.

PUBLIC EYE

Sharks on cocaine

If no news is good news, we’re in trouble. I don’t mean trouble with a small “t,” as in discovering a day too late that your dog ate an entire can of peanuts, I mean BIG trouble, as in discovering a day too late, as you stumble toward the coffeemaker in your early morning pitch black house, that not only did your dog eat TWO entire cans of peanuts, but that he or she processed them with great efficiency.

NEWS

EDITOR STEWART DOBSON; EXECUTIVE EDITOR STEVE GREEN

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Contact News Room: editor@oceancitytoday.net

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By Stewart Dobson

Looking at the news of the week, I’d say we need to watch where we’re walking, because things are definitely not right.

To be clear, I am not talking about national politics, which up until recently mostly entailed grumpy old men arguing that they were neither.

No, the scariest news of this past week is that scientists have discovered that the sharks off the coast of Brazil are testing positive for cocaine consumption.

Great. Just great. On top of everything else going on, we now we have hyperactive sharks that will talk your ear off before they eat it.

It’s a fact, according to just-reported research, which found that sharks hanging around the waters off Rio De Janeiro are getting their cocaine from sewer outfall pipes off the coast.

I suppose that’s one way they can save money, but the greater issue is that if sharks have been swallowing cocaine as they go with the flow, so have all the other denizens of

these high seas.

This might also explain another bit of shocking news. Although New Hampshire is a few miles north of Brazil, who’s to say that the humpback whale that came down on the transom of a center console boat up there on Tuesday hadn’t just returned from a wild weekend way down south?

For all we know, it could have gone there, gorged on thrill krill and then declared, “Yeah, well, I’m going to show someone the real meaning of hump day.”

Clearly, the whale saw the boat and made no attempt to avoid it, as it breached right off the vessel’s aft and crashed down on the stern without so much as a “whoops, pardon me.”

Suffice to say the two people on the whaled-on vessel figured their own afts were on the line until a nearby fishing boat rescued them.

So, let’s see we still have killer whales targeting boats off the coasts of Spain and France, cocaine-crazed sharks zipping around the waters of Rio De Janeiro, and an out-ofits-mind whale showing a fishing boat what it’s like to be a right whale in the wrong place. What’s next, shrimp muggings, terrorist trout, perilous perch, haddocks from hell?

I’m telling you, something’s not right and we need to be on alert for the next thing that nature throws at us — like toxic worms crawling all over Houston ... oh wait, that’s happening too.

Now that I think about it, I might stick to politics after all. At least with politics you know that the sharks and humpbacks you might see are probably on someone’s payroll.

Between the Lines

By Steve Green

How could it happen? It’s the natural question many asked after learning Worcester County government was scammed out of $167,000 over the course of several months. It’s an understandable reaction and the answer is unclear, but the county’s statement this week did shed some light on why multiple fraudulent transactions took place between Nov. 20, 2020, and Jan. 21, 2021, ranging from $16.60 to $41,471.94. It appears the fraudulent party invoiced the county for about $167,745 through a business scheme involving shell companies and compromised emails. It’s a bad look for the county, but the silver lining in the whole situation is the Worcester County Sheriff’s Office worked closely with the feds to apprehend the suspect(s).

In a refreshingly transparent statement, Worcester County Chief Administrative Officer Weston Young offered the county’s side to the question of how it occurred. “… The incident allowed a criminal to gain access to parts of the Treasurer’s Office data system, pose as a known county vendor, and illegally acquire county funds. Inconsistencies were noted on the vendor account by county staff, leading to the discovery of the fraud,” he said. “The subsequent criminal investigation, originally led by the Worcester County Sheriff’s Office in conjunction with federal authorities, led to the arrest of two individuals. The county has recovered approximately 80% of the loss and continues to work with federal authorities as they distribute proceeds from the sale of the seized assets purchased with the stolen funds. In addition, the county has made changes to limit outside access to our county systems and further safeguard operations in the future.” ****

Similar to local road work seemingly always happening during the spring Cruisin’ event in May, it may seem odd for the state to conduct Inlet dredging in late July at the peak of boat activity. In the case of this week’s announcement by the Maryland Department of Natural Resources Fisheries about Inlet dredging taking place between July 24-30, it’s welcomed news. For several months, concerns have been aired in the fishing community about depth issues in the Inlet as well as around the entrances to the marinas in West Ocean City. It’s no coincidence — and a good one at that — the dredging work will be completed before the White Marlin Open, Aug. 5-9.

It’s difficult to imagine in 2024 there are homes within a couple miles of municipalities in Worcester County without high-speed internet access. In fact, according to a 2019 Broadband Feasibility Study, there were 6,400 homes and businesses in the county that, “do not have access to internet service that meets the federal definition of broadband.” The study included a map that showed about 80% of the county’s geography does not have high-speed access but it’s a bit misleading due to the rural nature of the county, especially on the western side. Nonetheless, it’s disturbing to know residents who live two miles south or west of Berlin, for example, have been living without a service most take for granted today. The good news is major progress has been made in the last five years. In fact, Worcester County Information Technology Director Brian Jones told the County Commissioners last week there are currently about 1,400 to 1,600 homes or businesses without broadband. Perhaps the best news of all – a point celebrated by Commission President Chip Bertino last week – is the county has only spent about $96,000 on the effort with a bulk of the work funded by grants. The county did in March commit $1 million to the effort to further the project’s reach, but early estimates said it could cost the county as much as $50 million to run fiber to the underserved areas. The project received another wave of grant funding recently as the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development’s Difficult to Serve Properties Grant Program awarded the initiative $1.2 million.

Best wishes and good luck in the Olympics to 17-year-old Ruby Lilley, who learned to skateboard in Ocean City at Ocean Bowl Skate Park. Lilley and her two older brothers were well known to many as outstanding young skaters, but it was the little sister who took her talents to another level when she moved out of the area to California when she was 10 years old. During an interview this week, Lilley said she was excited to complete on the world stage. She is currently ranked third in the U.S. in park skateboarding and 14th in the world. She also gave a shout to her hometown. “I grew up skating at Ocean Bowl Skate Park. It's such a cool little park and it's such a good community there,” she said. “Everyone's so supportive, and it was such a great place to start skateboarding.”

Though the games kick off tonight officially, Lilley is not expected to compete until Aug. 6 when the women’s park skateboarding competition is scheduled to begin. Local watch parties at local watering holes are evidently already being planned.

More attention needed on wind farm accident

Editor,

Raise your hand if you are aware of the environmental disaster that started on July 13 off the coast of Nantucket?

For those who don’t know, a 300foot long blade broke off a turbine in the Vineyard Wind project located between Nantucket and Martha’s Vineyard. This project is less than one year old, and this particular turbine’s construction had just been completed. In fact, the incident happened during the testing phase.

What did this accident teach us? . .. that nothing about offshore wind turbine power plants is “green” or “clean.” In fact, now we know these turbine blades are made of metal and fiberglass-reinforced polyester or epoxy. Carbon fiber or aramid (Kevlar) is also used as reinforcement material. These are materials that will never dissipate or biodegrade. But it’s worse than that - the pieces of the blade (thousands of shards) are in the ocean and will be eaten by whales, turtles and fish. And it is deadly.

What else did we learn? Something a few of us already knew: these companies have one mission - to extract as much money as possible from the American people with no regard for our safety, environment or livelihoods. This is highlighted by the fact that the developer did not inform any authority until Captain Carl Bois, who was tuna fishing at the time, reported debris in the water.

Capt. Bois then had to alert the authorities 48 hours after the disaster, while toxic, dangerous, sharp (many huge) pieces of the blade floated in the water and washed up on the

beach on Nantucket’s southern coast. Further, it took another 24 hours to deploy a clean up crew. By that time, the residents and lifeguards of Nantucket were trying to clean up the mess. The developer, Vineyard Wind, never bothered to tell anyone on Martha’s Vineyard, or the Cape, and they started finding debris there as well. You can find all the details in nantucketcurrent.com. Capt. Bois’ article is dated July 18..

The turbine blade began disintegrating on the evening of July 13 and sent some 17 cubic yards of debris into the ocean. The owners of the Vineyard Wind project did not notify Nantucket officials until Monday 15 , July, at about 5 p.m.

The beaches were closed due to the hazardous conditions.

A few days ago, the rest of the blade (all 300 feet) fell into the ocean and is now lying on the seafloor.

Raise your hand again if you were aware of this event from any of our local news sources - television, print, radio (other than WGMD).

Raise your hand again if you think this is pretty important information locals should have since there is a wind farm planned for 10 miles off the coast of Ocean City.

Frankly, I find it alarming that the only place I have seen local coverage of this disaster is on social media, particularly Facebook pages concerning offshore wind and its dangers. I know of at least one person who contacted a local television station to ask if it would be covered and was told it’s too far away to affect us.

It would seem to me that the residents who live here and whose tax money is substantially funding the Ocean Wind project 10 miles off the Continued on Page 94

Weekend pickleball tourney eyed for Berlin

By Tara Fischer Staff Writer

(July 26, 2024) Pickleball novices and experts alike will have the opportunity to participate in a pickleball tournament this August at the firstever PKLNPALOOZA to benefit Diakonia and youth athletics.

The tournament, slated for Friday, Aug. 16, to Sunday, Aug. 18, is $45 to enter. A portion of the proceeds will be donated to Diakonia, a nonprofit that supports low-income and homeless individuals and families. The rest will be invested in a pickleball club at Worcester Preparatory School.

Friday, the first day of the tournament, will be held at Worcester Prep. The Factory, an indoor sports facility in Frankford, Del., will host Saturday and Sunday.

“We are trying to introduce the

town to pickleball,” Worcester Prep basketball coach and tournament organizer Mike O’Malley said. “The sport is exploding and is on fire and is not slowing down anytime soon.”

The event is open to any skill level. Traditionally, pickleball players are rated 3.0 to 5.0, with 5.0 indicating a high ability at the sport. For this tournament, participants are prompted to enter their scores so the organizers may properly match up opponents.

O’Malley maintained that first-time individuals dabbling in the game who do not have a classification should place themselves as beginners.

“We are opening the tournament up to anyone,” O’Malley said. “Anyone from five to 100 can sign up, any skill level…It is going to be laid back for the whole family.”

The event organizer said that while

the tournament is open to all proficiency levels, the 4.0-up division of matches will be competitive.

“We want people who are just starting to watch these pro players to see the level the sport can reach,” O’Malley said. “Anyone from a child to a professional player in their prime and even grandma and grandpa in their 70s and 80s is welcome.”

To prepare for the event, entries will have the opportunity to participate in a free community pickleball clinic on Thursday, Aug. 1 at Worcester Prep. Some of the region’s best coaches will be there to teach all their tips and tricks.

The tournament's opening night is Friday, Aug. 16 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Organizers will reveal the bracket, host skills challenges, and set up pickle pong, an alternate and non-alcoholic version of beer pong. A happy hour will follow at Sinepuxent Brewing.

The men's and women's doubles are set for Aug. 17, while the youth, family, and mixed doubles are scheduled for Aug. 18. The events on Saturday and Sunday will begin at 9 a.m. At the conclusion of each day, a happy hour like night one will take place, but venues have yet to be nailed down.

“The happy hour is a way to get people together to get drinks, meet everyone, and network with other pickleball players, the fastest growing community in the world,” O’Malley said.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Continued from Page 93

coast of Ocean City should certainly be informed, since there’s a good chance this would happen here, too. It’s probably even more likely here since the developer of the Ocean Wind project, US Wind (an Italian company), is a novice, having never built an offshore wind farm. Yes, our state and federal governments have turned us into guinea pigs.

If you want real, truthful information about the dangers of offshore wind, a great source is actually Facebook. Check out Protect our CoastDelmarva and other pages to find out what every citizen needs to know. Additionally, go to greenoceans.org/, save-the-eastcoast.org/, protectourcoastnj.com/, and keep your eyes out for saveoceancity.com/ where very shortly you will be able to find information on all things offshore wind and how it will affect Maryland and in addition, what Ocean City will do to fight the project.

Carol Frazier Ocean Pines

Berlin Nursing Home care recognized by family

Editor,

We are writing to bring attention to some truly amazing local heroes, who are surely deserving of far more

The event organizer also hopes to secure food trucks for the tournament. Anyone interested in offering their services may contact him at info@pklnpickleball.com.

First, second, and third place in the upper division matches will receive cash prizes. The amount is yet to be determined, but O’Malley hopes these awards will incentivize higherlevel players to register.

The tournament organizer hopes the event will foster a devoted pickleball community in Worcester County. He is even attempting to secure a USA Pickleball certified coach to do a mass rating for the town a few times a year and learn from an expert.

“The sky is the limit,” O’Malley said. “Just look at what the sport has done for entire communities worldwide. I hope this will be a taste of pickleball, and years down the road, we will have more dedicated pickleball facilities and more middle school and high school teams. It is such a unifying sport and has brought so many people together. I want to bring the town together. It’s already so tight knit, but if anything can do it, it’s pickleball. I’m hoping to unleash its powers on Worcester County and Berlin.”

Individuals who have any questions or are looking to register can contact O’Malley directly at info@pklnpickleball.com.

praise and esteem than they usually publicly receive.

Our beloved mother experienced a series of strokes, which caused her to be consigned to long term care at Berlin Nursing & Rehabilitation, in Berlin. The more than two-and-a-half years she was a patient there was obviously a very difficult time for our family.

But we will be forever grateful for the incredibly dedicated staff who were caring for her, as well as every single person who made sure the facility was run from day to day with such professionalism and empathy. From the hard-working and committed administrative personnel, to the nurses and other health professionals who treated our mother day-in-andday-out with such kindness, patience and love, to even the maintenance staff — one of whom (Lincoln), would regularly stop into her room and sing her a song to try to make her smile — we can hardly find the words to express the boundless respect and gratitude we have for each and every one of them.

Our hope is simply to remind everyone that these are the people who see us through the most challenging times in our lives. Please help us give them the recognition that they truly deserve. Thank you so much.

The Scrudato family Ocean Pines

Battles for Guam, Tinian open new frontline

By Hon. W. Newton Jackson III Contributing Writer

Early in World War Two, the U.S. determined that a two-prong attack against the Japanese homeland was necessary. The first objective was the Philippines-Formosa-China Coast triangle. While Gen. Douglas MacArthur and his Southwest Pacific Area forces pushed northwest from New GuineaNew Britain toward the Philippines, the troops were still vulnerable to Japanese air and naval attacks. For that reason, naval strategists decided to open a new front in the Central Pacific Ocean.

The Pacific Ocean is twice as large as the Atlantic Ocean and more than 20 times as large as the continental United States. The western part of the Pacific contains thousands of flyspeck islands collectively known as Micronesia (“Very small islands”).

Their combined land area is fewer than 2,000 square miles, about the size of the state of Delaware. Many are low coral atolls, but a few have volcanic peaks as high as 3,000 feet.

Micronesia begins with the Palau Islands located roughly 500 miles east of the Philippines. From there they stretch eastward nearly 3,000 miles to form the Caroline, Marshall, and Gilbert island groups. Perpendicular to these are the Marianas and Bonins, which string

northward toward Japan. Each island group would be taken by the U.S. at a bloody cost.

The three islands known as Saipan, Guam, and Tinian constitute the Marianas group. They are located in the Philippine Sea (part of the Pacific Ocean). Imagine a line running northeast to southwest. Saipan is at the top followed by Tinian three miles to the south and Guam 120 miles farther south.

The battle for Saipan began on 15 June 1944 and lasted over three weeks. It was a decisive victory for the U.S., but at a cost of 3,478 American lives and 13,208 wounded. Japanese military deaths totaled 23,811, plus countless civilians, many of whom committed suicide when defeat became certain.

Guam is 30 miles in length. The U.S. had owned Guam since 1899, but on Dec. 8, 1941, the day after Pearl Harbor, the Japanese invaded the island and defeated its small Marine garrison (one Navy radioman named George Tweed escaped into the bush and lived there for over two and one-half years, helped by the local Guamanians, until rescued when the island was retaken by the U.S.).

The Japanese invaders proved to be merciless and sadistic with the civilian population. Many Guamanians were

executed in front of their families. The local populace was required to bow deeply to Japanese officials and learn Japanese as a language. Many had their property confiscated. In little over two years, most of the native population was living in penal colonies. Despite over four decades of occupa-

tion, the U.S. had very imprecise topographical maps of the island. The invasion commenced on July 21, 1944, although bombardment of enemy fortifications on the island had begun on July 8.

The capital city of Agana was leveled

Continued on Page 96

brutally

Marines stack mortar rounds in preparation for firing a fast barrage on July 30, 1944.

because the U.S. did not want a repetition of the house-to-house fighting which had occurred in Garapan in Saipan. For the first time in Pacific amphibious operations, U.S. naval gunfire and aircraft bombardment on the same coastal area occurred simultaneously.

Several pilots were shot down, but most were rescued by submarines. The Stingray, for example, had already taken aboard three aviators when it received a message to rescue a fourth flier who had parachuted from his plane and was in a rubber raft only one mile offshore.

The deadly Japanese gunners on the beach were attempting to hit him as the submarine approached under the surface, expecting the downed flier to grab ahold of the periscope, but he was unable to do so because of a badly cut hand. After the fourth pass, he finally grabbed it with his good hand while the

submarine, still under the surface, towed him for another hour out to sea before surfacing. The rescue, albeit frustrating, was completed.

Five days after the U.S. landing, Guam was once again under U.S. control, but at a cost of 1,919 killed, 7,122 wounded, and 70 missing. The Japanese dead totaled 10,971, but this figure would rise to 17,238 two months later because many of them took to the woods and caves determined never to surrender. Unlike Radioman Tweed, they received no help from the locals and one-by-one were exterminated by U.S. soldiers when they refused to surrender.

On July 24, 1944, the battle for Tinian began. This island measures 10 miles by three miles in size. The Japanese garrison of 7,000 men there had expected the invasion to occur on the broad beaches of Tinian Town on the southwest side of the island.

To reinforce that erroneous belief, the U.S. battleship Colorado bombarded enemy positions. Hidden and deadly accurate Japanese gunners, however, were able to put 22 holes in her hull, wounding her captain, before the ship could maneuver out to sea. The nearby destroyer Norman Scott was also hit, and its captain killed.

U.S. planners wisely chose to enter at two smaller beaches on the northnorthwestern end of the island, which took the Japanese defenders by surprise. Because Saipan was now under U.S. control, the invasion of Tinian was shore-to-shore instead of ship-to-shore, which meant that unlimited supplies could be ferried across the strait and then carried by amtracs inland instead of being dumped on the beach.

Naval aviators from aircraft carriers also provided close tactical support for the Marine ground forces by bombing and strafing enemy positions and parachuting supplies, another first in amphibious warfare in the Pacific.

U.S. ground forces ashore easily pushed the Japanese defenders toward the southern tip of the island, but, as was always the case, they had to set up

defensive positions to await the inevitable banzai counteroffensive, which typically occurred in the wee hours of the morning.

The last organized enemy suicide attack was made on the night of July 31Aug. 1. When the last battle was over, the Marines had lost 324 men; 1,515 were wounded. Japanese dead totaled over 6,000 men.

With victories in Saipan (the subject of a previous article by this writer) and now Guam and Tinian, the U.S. was in possession of the Mariana Islands. This meant that land-based B-29 bombers flown by the Army could now operate against Japan’s industrial cities. Navy tankers could fill them with all the gasoline they needed while cargo ships could deliver the necessary bombs. Still, naval planners did not expect Japan to surrender any time soon. An advance to the Philippine Islands and ultimately the Japanese homeland islands became necessary. Just over a year later, on Aug. 6, 1945, the Enola Gay would take off from Tinian and drop the atomic bomb on Hiroshima.

Next week: Warsaw Uprising

USS Stingray

OBITUARIES

CHARLES (CHARLIE) H. MCMICHAEL III Ocean Pines

Charles (Charlie) H. McMichael III, of Ocean Pines, passed away peacefully on July 17, 2024, at the age of 74.

Charlie was born in Wilmington, Delaware, on Aug.16, 1949, to the late Alice Phillips McMichael and Charles H. McMichael Jr.

He was proud to have grown up in Wilmington, Delaware, and attended Lore Elementary School, Bayard Middle School and Wilmington High School, graduating in 1968. Many knew Charlie as a force to be reckoned with on the pitcher's mound from Little League to his mid 40s with several no-hitters during high school and semi-pro, where he was scouted by the Philadelphia Phillies.

He was one of the first students to attend Delaware Technical and Community College in 1968 to 1970. After college, Charlie joined the U.S. Navy, completing Boot Camp in San Diego, California, and Machines Mate training in Chicago, Illinois.

He went on to serve on the USS Vogelgesang DD- 862 and the USS Manley, DD940 out of Norfolk, Virginia. During his service he was

awarded the National Defense Service Medal.

Charlie wed his high school sweetheart, the love of his life, and best friend Patricia Gordon McMichael, during his time of service on Sept. 4, 1971. They continued to enjoy 52 years together, with his wonderful sense of humor keeping the laughter in their marriage, even in the hardest of times.

After completing four years in the Navy, Charlie returned to Wilmington, Delaware, where he worked as a painter for the Magnus Construction Company. Shortly after he started his own painting and restoration business, Statewide Restorations, Inc., from which he retired after 35 years in 2019.

He took pride when seeing the transformation from completing repairs and a fresh coat of paint, enjoyed the camaraderie of his employees and construction teams, and the time with the numerous customers' homes he was welcomed into.

Charlie and Patricia moved to Ocean Pines in 2018 to begin the transition from working to retirement. Charlie felt blessed to have moved into not only a great community, but an area where the neighbors quickly became family.

It comes as no surprise to those who met Charlie that he loved the game of golf. Watching the matches

on TV, attending in person, and most of all his time regularly playing on courses from Pebble Beach, California to his backyard in Ocean Pines. He enjoyed walking when he played several times a week, every month of the year. As a member of the Ocean Pines Men's Golf Association, he met so many wonderful people and was honored to be the OPGMA membership chair for the past two years.

Charlie was a talented artistic painter. Beginning in high school and dabbling over the years until retirement when time allowed him to revisit his natural ability to masterfully create dozens of landscapes that adorned their home changing with the seasons.

Charlie is survived by his wife, Patricia Ann Gordon McMichael; their adorable kitty-cat Cece, who was never far from his side; their children, Charles H. McMichael IV (Nattile) and Michelle M. Truban (Allen); grandchildren Mason Truban, Mackenzie Truban and Olivia Davis; sister Alice Walsh (Bill); sisters-inlaw Cheri Gordon-Patterson, Gerilyn Gaskill (Howard), Theresa Davis (James) and Tara Fairchild (Scott); and brothers-in-law John Gordon (Marge), Joseph Gordon (Cheryle) and Deke Moore; and niece Debbie Cormier; along with many nephews, nieces, great-nieces, great-nephews, great-great nieces, a great-great

nephew, and great-great-great nephew.

He was preceded in death by his older sisters Charlotte-Ann McMichael and Betty Johnson.

Throughout the years, Charlie would often give thanklessly to others in random acts of kindness. From surprising families with a Christmas tree/presents, to secretly buying dinners. There isn't anyone he met who didn't become a friend. He epitomized all of the most important qualities of a person - kindness, compassion, understanding and forgiveness. He spread so much love and laughter with his witty sense of humor. "To know him is to love him" couldn't have fit more perfectly.

A Celebration of Life, "Charliebration,” will take place at 3 p.m., July 30, at the Golden Sands Resort, 10900 Coastal Highway, in Ocean City. Parking is off site at St. Peter's Lutheran Church at 10301 Coastal Highway and in the surrounding neighborhood. All locations are a short walk to the resort where you will be assisted to the 22nd floor. Golf attire and bright colors are welcome.

Arrangements are in the care of Eastern Shore Cremation and Funeral Service, 504 Franklin Ave., in Berlin. To send condolences to the family, visit easternshorecremation.com.

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C. McMichael III

OBITUARIES

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JAMES “JIM” R. PARKINSON

Delaware

Jim quietly went to be with our Lord Jesus Christ with his family by his side on the afternoon of July 3. He was born March 10, 1948. Jim led a life full of different adventures. In his younger days, he participated in activities with his two children like, scouts, basketball and little league. Later he enjoyed powersports such as tractor pulling, drag racing, boating and motorcycles. In his middle age years, his interest turned to boarding, raising, training and showing horses with his wife Peggy.

Jim wore many hats, had varied interest and accomplished many goals throughout his life. He was very passionate about others, especially veterans, and showed it through his long tenure as a director of the Legion Riders from Posts 28, 19, and Post 8 in Georgetown, Delaware.

The last few years as Jim was getting sicker he became very close to his children, grandchildren and great grandchildren.

He is survived by his wife Peggy; his son Benny Parkinson (wife Shae);

his daughter Lisa Scarbath (husband Steve); stepson Tracy Townsend; four grandchildren, TJ Parkinson (wife Amber), Megan, Jake and Logan Scarbath; two step-grandchildren, Candice Menard and JR Hall; and six great-grandchildren Bryleigh, Brooke, Blaine, Bella Briella and Madison.

Jim touched many people’s lives and will be missed by all who knew him.

There will be a Celebration of Life/ Memorial Ride held for Jim at noon on Sept. 1 at Wzrd Kustums In Laurel, Delaware The ride will leave at 1 p.m. and end up at American Legion Post 28 in Oak Orchard.

GERALD FRANKLIN ALBRIGHT

Berlin

Gerald Franklin Albright, age 85, passed away peacefully on Monday, July 15, 2024, at Atlantic General Hospital in Berlin.

Born in Hodge, Louisiana, he was the son of the late Gerald Cooper Albright and Marion Poteet Albright.

Gerald was “Jerry” to his many friends. He enjoyed a successful career as a men’s clothing sales representative and an antique dealer. A member of Atlantic United

Methodist Church, he volunteered at the soup kitchen. Jerry was an avid collector of duck decoys, an active gardener, a talented painter, and a patron of the Ocean City Art League.

Jerry attended John McDonough High School in New Orleans, Louisiana State University, and served in the United States Coast Guard.

He is survived by his loving wife of 57 years, Jennifer Lake Albright; and his children, Hoby Albright (wife, Stephanie), Jennifer King (husband, Karl), Christian Albright, and Randolph Albright (fiancé, Julie Anker).

Also surviving are his brother, William Albright (wife, Mary); his sister, Patricia Waltrip (husband, Jerry); and numerous nieces and nephews.

His grandchildren, John, Alexandria, and McKenna King, and Cooper and Cole Albright, held a very special place in his heart. His warmth, kindness, and spirit live on through his family.

Services will be held from 12:30 to 2 p.m., Friday, July 19, with a memorial service at 2 pm, and a reception to follow. Atlantic United Methodist Church is at 105 4th Street, in Ocean City. Rev. George Patterson will officiate.

Letters of condolences can be sent

to the family via burbagefuneralhome.com. Arrangements are in the care of The Burbage Funeral Home. Donations to the Atlantic United Methodist Church Soup Kitchen can be made via atlanticumc.org.

CAROL ANN HAFER

Ocean City

Carol Ann Hafer, 76, of Ocean City, died Thursday, July 18, 2024, at Tidal Health Peninsula Regional in Salisbury.

She was born in Reading, Pennsylvania, and was the daughter of the late Carl Shaner and Mildred (Hornicak) Shaner.

She was a retired personal care aide for Country Meadows in Wyomissing, Pennsylvania. Carol was a member of St. Mary's Star of the Sea Catholic Church in Ocean City, Moose Lodge and American Legion Auxiliary Post #166 in Ocean City. Carol is survived by her husband of 56 years, Richard E. Hafer; three children, Mary Hafer of Berlin, Richard C. Hafer of Collegeville, Pennsylvania, and Jessica Chambers and husband Scott of Wyomissing, Pennsylvania; and two grandsons, Ryan Chambers and Dylan Chambers.

James Parkinson

Gerald Albright

Carol Ann Hafer

OBITUARIES

A funeral service will be held at noon on Friday July 26, at BishopHastings Funeral Home, 19 S. Main Street in Selbyville, Delaware. Friends may call one hour before the service. Entombment will be in Gethsemane Cemetery in Reading at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, donations in her memory may be made to the American Cancer Society, P.O. Box 6704, Hagerstown, MD. 21741.

Condolences may be sent by visiting bishophastingsfh.com.

EMILIO "VASCO" CALCARA

Ocean City

Emilio "Vasco" Calcara, 86, of Ocean City, passed away peacefully on July 19, 2024, in Millsboro, Delaware, with his loving family by his side.

Born in Malo, Italy, on March 15, 1938, he was the son of the late Giuseppe Calcara and Clelia Berti.

Vasco's early life in Italy laid the foundation for a future filled with dedication, hard work, and passion.

After completing his schooling, he served in the military in Italy, which instilled in him a sense of discipline and pride. Just before 1960, seeking new opportunities, Vasco made a life-changing move to the United States.

In 1962, Vasco embarked on a venture that would become his legacy: Lombardi's, a restaurant that quickly became a go-to for residents and tourists alike in Ocean City. Vasco poured his heart into every loaf of bread, every plate of pasta, and every pizza, infusing his Italian heritage into each dish. Lombardi's wasn't just a restaurant; it was a gathering place, a second home for many, and a testament to Vasco's commitment to his craft. He will be deeply missed by his restaurant family and the Ocean City community.

Always showing his style, Vasco believed that a man's shoes should always match his belt. His style didn’t end with his outfits, he also had a love

for Vespa scooters. He owned several throughout his life. He also had a passion for horses and American cowboys which started in his childhood and followed him to his later years. Not only was a horse farm his father’s family business, he himself had a few of his own. He enjoyed buying American saddles and cowboy hats to sell in Italy.

He is survived by his loving wife of 38 years, Maria Figueiredo; and his daughters, Carol Renee Calcara (Philip), Juliana Nela Calcara, and Emanuela Calcara (Edward). He was a cherished Nonno to Emilia, Nicolette, Carolanne, the one on the way, and his great-grandchildren, Jack and Lucian; a brother to Dante Calcara; and uncle to numerous nieces and nephews.

Vasco was preceded in death by his siblings, Giuseppe, Antonia and Vasco.

A funeral service will be held at 2 p.m., Wednesday, July 24, at St. Luke’s Catholic Church, 9903 Ocean Highway in Ocean City. Friends and family are invited to visit an hour prior to the service. Father Paul Jennings will officiate the service.

Arrangements are in the care of Holloway Funeral Home, P.A., 501 Snow Hill Road. Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared for the family at hollowayfh.com.

Emilio Calcara

Sports & Recreation

Over 400 participate in annual kids tourney

By Anna Williams Staff Writer

(July 26, 2024) More than 400 junior anglers participated in last weekend’s 20th Annual OC Marlin Club Kid’s Classic fishing tournament. A total of 73 boats were registered for both offshore and inshore fishing, resulting in a highly successful event at the scales. Kids 19 years of age or younger participated for prizes for their efforts on the water, with a portion of the registration proceeds benefitting the Wish-A-Fish Foundation.

Weigh-ins took place Saturday and Sunday from 3-6 p.m. at Sunset Marina, showcasing a variety of catches in categories for offshore and inshore fish. Playmate and Marli led the pack with impressive 1st and 2nd place finishes in wahoo and tuna. Additionally, flags were flying as Reel Chaos, Pachanga, and Tara Jessica recorded exciting white and blue marlin releases.

The tournament results are as follows:

Wahoo:

1st place: Playmate, 54 pounds

2nd place: Marli 33.5, pounds

Tuna:

1st place: Playmate, 37.5 pounds

2nd place Marli, 37 pounds

3rd place: Gulfstream, 34.5 pounds

Dolphin:

1st place (tie): Playmate and Reel Chaos, 6 pounds

2nd place (tie): Pachanga and Bloodline, 5 pounds

3rd place: Bloodline, 4.5 pounds

Bonita:

1st place: Riled Up, 4.2 pounds

2nd place: Riled Up, 3.6 pounds

3rd place: Riled Up, 2 pounds

Sea Bass:

1st place: Alternating Currents, 2.8 pounds

2nd place: Alternating Currents, 2.2

pounds

3rd place: Alternating Currents, 2.1 pounds

Spot:

1st place: Partnership, 1 pound

2nd place: Miss Mary, 0.5 pounds

Croaker:

1st place: Sea Slammer, 4.4 pounds

2nd place: Collins Catchers, 3.4 pounds

3rd place: First Try, 2.7 pounds

Flounder:

1st place: Sea Slammer, 4.4 pounds

2nd place: Collins Catchers, 3.4 pounds

3rd place: First Try, 2.7 pounds

Mackerel:

1st place: Hix Hooker, 18.5 pounds

2nd place: Nauti Norwegian, 2 pounds

3rd place: Nauti Norwegian, 1.7 pounds White Marlin:

1st place: Reel Chaos, 400 release points

2nd place: Pachanga, 100 release points

Blue Marlin:

1st place: Tara Jessica, 150 release points

The awards ceremony and carnival were held at the OC Marlin Club on Sunday, July 21 from 6-9 p.m. Junior anglers enjoyed dinner and received awards for their accomplishments. Additionally, attendees participated in a dunk tank contest, in which all proceeds benefitted the Franky Pettolina Scholarship Foundation.

The tournament excitement continues this weekend, July 26-July 28, as boats will compete for an approximately $740,000 prize money in the 11th Annual Huk Big Fish Classic tournament. Weigh-ins will be held each day from 49pm at the Talbot Street Pier, where anglers will compete for the largest marlin, tuna, swordfish, sharks and much more. Spectators are encouraged to join the festivities, which will include venders throughout the event starting at 3 p.m.

ESA advocate for Delmarva surf community

By Dave Dalkiewicz Contributing Writer

(July 26, 2024) The Eastern Surfing Association (ESA) is a major advocate for surfing. It’s basically a conservation organization with its most visible aspect being that of competition.

Granted, most waveriding enthusiasts don’t get involved in competition but for those with interest the availability is there. Another notable feature of the ESA is that of community in that it can

bring people together with a common concern.

From my point of view it seems as though any municipality looks more favorably on an activity that is organized. It’s safe to say that it works in this manner with other sports/activities. Most of our society is set up in the way of an organization. Thus, the hours and rotating beaches, when and where surfing is allowed, becomes possible, at least in part, due to the ESA.

Surfing by its very nature is not a team sport. Some events are held in a team format but a team isn’t necessary in order to ride waves — although it’s a

good idea to not surf alone. The old adage, or saying, of “strength in numbers” appears to apply on more than one front.

The idea of a community is apparent in that the vast majority of personnel running the ESA are volunteers. Much work is needed to run an event and it can certainly be a thankless job.

Our area is the Delmarva district. It is one of many. The ESA has districts from the Great Lakes, Maine to Florida, and the Gulf Coast. Started in the 1960s, to my knowledge it is the largest amateur surfing organization in the world.

Regarding competition there are di-

visions for every age group as well as male and female. There is also a bodyboarding category. In short there’s something for everyone who desires to compete or simply wants to get together with other wave riders for some fun and comradery.

Surfer, body boarder and friend John Irwin even expressed an idea of not caring about winning or losing. His feeling? Just to get together with other wave riders. So there you have it, the ESA is a big voice for East Coast surfing, both locally and up and down the eastern part of the United States. For more information visit surfesa.org.

The team of Reel Chaos, far left, is pictured at the scales at Sunset Marina. The Reel Chaos won first place in the white marlin release division as well as tied for first place in the dolphin category. Left, the anglers on the Gulfstream are pictured with their catches including a 34.5-pound tuna that put them on the final leaderboard.

PHOTOS COURTESY OCEAN CITY MARLIN CLUB

FISH IN OC WITH SCOTT LENOX

PHOTOS COURTESY OF FISH IN OC

Captain Austin Ensor of the Primary Search put this offshore fishing charter, above left, on some memories and bigeye tuna of 199 and 234 pounds, respectively. An angler displays a beautiful mahi, above right, he caught while fishing with Captain Monty Hawkins of the Morning Star.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF FISH IN OC

The Split Bill with Captain Andy Butler boated nine yellowfin tuna last week, above left. Captain Willie and Team RoShamBo won the tuna category in the Jimmy Johnson with a beautiful 202-pound bigeye, above middle. Dr. Keith, above right, took the season long lead aboard the Angler with this beautiful almost 7-pound flounder. Below left, these anglers had a great day on the Wound Tight with Captain Shawn Gibson when they landed three yellowfin tuna. Below middle, Captain Brian Porter of the Boss Hogg found this group a white marlin release, some mahi and 10 yellowfin tuna. Below right, Captain Dave Caffrey of On the Run Charters put these ladies on keeper flounder up to 22”.