9/27/2024 OC Today-Dispatch by OC Today-Dispatch

Wind lease area studied

that’s

After success of last year’s event, city, promoters, fans believe music fest strikes the right chord. — PAGE 3

officials want more public input before deciding on occupancy and length of stay restrictions for short-term rentals. — PAGE 6

Three-day festival returns to Ocean City for second year

By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor

(Sept. 27, 2024) More than 50,000 concertgoers will converge in downtown Ocean City this weekend for the return of the Oceans Calling Festival. While rain is possible this weekend, as was the case for two of three days last year, officials continue to prepare for an influx of visitors to Ocean City ahead of the second annual Oceans Calling Festival. Held Sept. 27-29, the three-day festival will feature more than 30 performances on three stages at the southern end of the beach and Boardwalk.

The festival kicks off Friday with performances by Blink-182, Cage the Elephant, Sublime, 311, O.A.R., The Revivalists, The Darkness, Sugar Ray, Larkin Poe, Tonic, Phillip Phillips, Winona Fighter, Vincent Lima and Stolen Gin. On Saturday, festivities continue with performances by The Killers, The Offspring, Rebelution, The Beach Boys, Young the Giant, The All-American Rejects, The Hives, Grouplove,

Switchfoot, The Beaches, Trevor Hall, Brett Dennen, The Samples, Katelyn Tarver and Glom. The festival will conclude on Sunday with Dave Matthews Band, Mt. Joy, Counting Crows, Boyz II Men, Barenaked Ladies, Blues Traveler, Pigeons Playing Ping Pong, Guster, Big Head Todd and the Monsters, Lisa Loeb, Jade Bird and Stephen Kellogg. The festival will also feature Jolly Roger rides, food vendors, guest appearances and cooking demonstrations by chefs Robert Irvine, Amanda Freitag and Marc Murphy with host Jason Biggs.

Tickets went on sale in late February and sold out a week later. Officials earlier this month said more than 50,000 tickets were purchased this year, meaning community members can expect a busy weekend in Ocean City.

Boardwalk included in festival footprint

Last year, the festival promoter partnered with the town and local businesses to include a portion of the Boardwalk in its festival footprint. And by and large,

See OCEANS Page 80

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Short-term rental regs advance to hearing

back on both of those,” Commissioner Joel Brous said.

By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor

(Sept. 27, 2024) Planning officials say they want more public input before deciding on occupancy and length of stay restrictions for shortterm rentals.

Earlier this month, the Mayor and Council agreed to forward two proposed short-term rental regulations to the Ocean City Planning Commission for further review. One restriction would set a minimum length of stay for short-term rentals in the R-1 residential and MH mobile home districts, while the other would set occupancy for rentals in R-1 and MH districts to two people per bedroom plus two additional guests, and no children counted toward the limit.

As both regulations had a zoning component to them, both were presented to the town’s planning commission at a meeting last Tuesday. However, after hearing from shortterm rental owners, commission members directed staff to prepare ordinances that could be presented for a public hearing.

“I think it’d be good to hear feed-

Planning and Community Development Director George Bendler told the commission last week that staff were working internally to develop short-term rental regulations. He said the two before the commission were being presented for further discussion.

“We are not voting on an ordinance, we’re not enacting an ordinance,” he said. “This is basically a discussion of where we move forward with this topic.”

Bendler said the first regulation being proposed would set a minimum length of stay between five and seven days for short-term rentals in the R-1 and MH districts. He said officials believe setting a longer length of stay would cut down on short-term rentals being used for things like bachelor and bachelorette parties.

For his part, Commissioner Palmer Gillis said he supported instituting a minimum length of stay, as it protected homeowners in residential neighborhoods. He added the restriction would only impact about 230 licenses out of the nearly 9,000 that currently exist in town.

“I’ve watched a community, a neighborhood dissolve and be compromised because of short-term

rentals in another city nearby here,” he said. “I think we need to do everything we can do to protect the singlefamily zoning district, which is R-1. I’m not sure about the MH.”

Others, however, argued a minimum length of stay would hurt shortterm rentals. Commission Chair Joe Wilson said the length of vacation stays have declined in recent years.

“I personally do not like the minimum length of stay,” he said. “As someone who’s in the vacation rental industry, I can tell you the average length of stay has been decreasing over time. The days of having someone stay here for seven days in a row are gone. It’s just not here.”

Those concerns were echoed by other commission members, as well as short-term property owners who came out last Tuesday to voice their opposition to the proposed regulations. OC Beachfront Rentals owner Steven Lasik said the city should take another approach in regulating rental properties.

“I think holding the landlords accountable is the best answer,” he said. “The policies on the books, I think, are pretty good, if they are followed.”

The commission also reviewed the city’s proposal to implement new occupancy limits for short-term rentals. While occupancy is currently deter-

mined by the size of a bedroom, Bendler said what is being proposed would make occupancy easier to enforce.

During public comments last week, resident Pam Buckley, a former planning commission member, voiced her support for the proposed regulations. She said more could be done to ensure the safety of residents in the R-1 neighborhoods.

“I have no problem putting a seasonal tenant in an R-1 district, but I do have a real issue with weekend rentals …,” she said. “I want to feel safe, and that’s my main thing in the R-1 district.”

After further discussion, the commission directed staff to bring back two proposals – one that sets new occupancy calculations in the R-1 and MH districts while finding a creative method for penalizing landlords who don’t follow the regulations, and another that sets a five-day minimum length of stay, in season, for rentals in the R-1 and MH zones. Commissioners also encouraged R-1 and MH residents, as well as those who operate short-term rentals in those zoning districts, to attend a future public hearing on the matter.

“I think occupancy is the problem in R-1 …,” Commissioner Janet Hough said. “I think that’s more important than the minimum length of stay, is the occupancy.”

BOEM reports no plans to issue leases close to shore

By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor

(Sept. 27, 2024) Hundreds of community members, joined by local and state representatives, gathered at the convention center this week to learn more about a new ocean area being studied for offshore wind energy development.

On Tuesday, the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM) hosted an informational meeting at the Roland E. Powell Convention Center to gather public feedback on a new call area in the Central Atlantic region.

David MacDuffee, the chief of the Project and Coordination Branch in the Office of Renewable Energy Projects at BOEM, said comments gathered through Oct. 21 will ultimately be used to develop draft wind energy areas off the coast.

“What we’ll do with all this information is make sure that any areas deemed not suitable for wind energy development are taken off the table and that we narrow down the area …,” he said. “So we start very large, all the way up to the state-federal water boundary. We’re not proposing to issue wind leases that close to shore. In fact we’re not proposing anything at this point. No decisions have been made.”

Last month, BOEM announced a call area for a second offshore wind sale in the Central Atlantic. The second call area spans more than 13 million acres off the coasts of New Jersey, Delaware, Maryland, Virginia and North Carolina, and starts roughly three-and-a-half miles from Ocean City’s shoreline.

The announcement has since launched a 60-day comment period, during which BOEM has scheduled a series of public meetings in all five affected states. In Maryland, more than 500 individuals registered ahead of this week’s informational session at the convention center. However, not

all were happy with the meeting’s “open house” format, which featured information tables, displays and an area to submit comments.

“I want to thank everyone who came out to the BOEM meeting tonight at the Convention Center,” Ocean City Mayor Rick Meehan said in a social media post Tuesday. “This meeting was about a new proposed area designed for possible wind farm leases as close as 3.5 miles off of our coast. Unfortunately, BOEM decided this meeting would be for informational purposes only and not a true public hearing. I know that this left many that attended frustrated but your presence to support the town’s position in opposition was important and thank you.”

MacDuffee said Tuesday’s meeting was the start of what will be a multiyear process of analyzing public comments and data, narrowing its focus and developing draft wind energy areas, which will initiate another round of public comments. He said information BOEM has already received from its existing lease area off Maryland’s coast will also be used in the evaluation process.

“We then issue draft wind energy areas …,” he said. “We’ll put those out for public comment, and people can tell us if we got it right or if there is additional information to consider. So we’ll have other opportunities for the public, stakeholders, to review those draft areas before a decision is made to finalize those wind energy areas.”

From there, MacDuffee said BOEM could identify proposed lease areas.

“We may determine that it’s not suitable for leasing, and we just stop the process,” he explained.

Since the second call area was announced last month, state, county and municipal officials have gone on the record to oppose the project. Terry McGean, city manager for the Town of

See OFFICIALS Page 16

SUBMITTED PHOTO/OC TODAY-DISPATCH

Opponents of offshore wind development near Ocean City’s coast are pictured in front of the Roland E. Powell Convention Center on Tuesday.

Employee housing requirements questioned

Officials say certain parking restrictions prevent owners from developing projects

By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor

(Sept. 27, 2024) Resort planners will consider a parking revision when it comes to employee accessory housing.

The Ocean City Planning Commission last week agreed to hold a public hearing on an ordinance that will revise parking requirements for employee accessory housing. Planning and Community Development Director George Bendler told the commission questions have recently been raised about the effectiveness of the town’s new employee housing code.

“We have not had any current

projects utilized through the zoning code yet,” he explained. “We have had a lot of potential applicants come before us who wanted to do accessory employee housing … We want to give employee housing, but where we are with parking, it’s just not balancing.”

To support employee housing projects, Bendler suggested a revision that would allow a parking reduction to one space per sleeping room for the first four sleeping rooms, and then one-quarter space per additional sleeping room thereafter. He said another option was to allow applicants to submit an alternative parking plan, which could include options for parking permits or off-site parking.

“We wanted to see what the consideration was,” he said. “Accessory [housing] is what we’re talking about, not for standalone. If you want to do

a standalone project, we believe what we’ve put in front of you, what we’ve adopted, is fair.”

Bendler said the city had received a lot of interest from hoteliers interested in developing accessory housing for employees, but that certain parking requirements had limited their ability to move forward. He questioned if any commission members had interest in advancing the issue to a public hearing.

“I think it’s worth discussing,” Commission Chair Joe Wilson said. “To me, if we’ve only had one project come through that didn’t even utilize the parking incentive, I think it’s worth taking another look at.”

After further discussion, the commission voted unanimously to forward the issue to a public hearing.

The commission last week also

agreed to hold public hearings on two other ordinances. The first ordinance would require applications for improvements greater than 500 square feet – rather than the current 250 square feet – go before the planning commission for approval, while the second ordinance would allow for tandem parking in residential areas.

“What staff explained to me is that the town has always allowed a simple family home to have stacked parking, it just wasn’t in the code,” attorney Maureen Howarth said. “So it’s something they want to reflect in the code as it exists today.”

Bendler said that the topic of tandem parking was discussed earlier this year, when a townhouse project utilizing tandem – or stacked – parking was brought before the city for approval. While tandem parking requires approval from the city’s board of zoning appeals, a code amendment would make it a permitted use in residential areas, so long as tandem parking spaces are not shared with other properties and that no more than one space is stacked behind the other.

“This gives us a lot more clarification so you don’t have to send someone who wants to do tandem parking to the [board of zoning appeals],” he said.

Commissioner Palmer Gillis said he had concerns about the changes being proposed, as the minimum width for the open parking space was set at nine feet. He said he wanted to see spaces at least 10 feet wide.

“I don’t know of many jurisdictions that allow less for an open-surface parking lot,” he said.

Bendler, however, noted that the parking dimensions were already included in the current code. He said the ordinance would add language allowing for tandem parking.

“This has been adopted as the current code …,” he replied. “That’s our base parking standard in the town.”

With no further discussion, the commission agreed to move forward with the two public hearings, which will be held on Oct. 22.

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Beaches, ocean reopened after medical waste found

(Sept. 27, 2024) Ocean City and surrounding beaches were officially reopened on Friday after closing for nearly a week because of medical waste, like syringes and needles, washing ashore in some areas. Officials are still unsure of the source.

According to a news release from Ocean City Emergency Services Director Joe Theobald, high tides that swept in for several days eliminated the waste discovered in the sand last weekend.

“Ocean City Emergency Services, in collaboration with the Worcester County Health Department and Environmental Programs, has conducted thorough water testing, and the results show the water is within normal levels,” Theobold said in the release. “We are confident that it is now safe to reopen the ocean for swimming and surfing.”

He added that the source for the waste was “still unknown,” but that staff were working with officials from Maryland, Delaware and Virginia to determine the cause.

Assteague Island National Seashore officials released a similar update on the beach and ocean Friday.

“In consultation with the multiple state and federal agencies, we are pleased to report that swimming and ocean access can now be permitted on

the lifeguarded beaches in both Maryland and Virginia,” the release said.

Other areas, such as the Oceanside Campground Beach and South Beach at Assateague, were also set to reopen Saturday morning.

Visitors are advised to wear shoes on the beach as a precaution.

“We have done an intensive cleanup effort-but the risk is not zero,” the release said.

The release added that the Maryland Oversand Vehicle area also remained closed over the weekend because of “major washouts and flooding” and the North End of the island was closed to visitors because a larger amount of medical and other waste was reported on the shore in the area.

“It is likely that it will remain closed for at least another week, possibly longer, as cleanup will begin after the other, more visited areas are completed,” the release said.

The source of the waste, which consisted of used needles, hygiene products, smoking products, and miscellaneous plastics, is unknown. Most of it came ashore Sunday, Monday or Tuesday of last week.

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Officials oppose second call area

Continued from Page 10

Ocean City, told the Mayor and Council last week he had also shared the town’s stance at a recent virtual meeting hosted by BOEM.

“I firmly stated our position opposing any visible turbines,” he said. “Many others also spoke at that task force meeting in opposition to the call area.”

BOEM’s announcement that it would be hosting a public meeting on a new call area came one week after the federal agency approved US Wind’s plans for approximately 114, 938-foot-tall wind turbines, which will be located in a lease area roughly 10 miles from Ocean City’s coastline. For that project, the city has announced its intention to sue BOEM.

“Our job is to follow the Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act, which is the law Congress passed,” MacDuffee said this week in response to the pending litigation. “It gave the Department of the Interior jurisdiction to issue leases for energy development. So we follow that statute, as well as our regulations. We take very seriously the reviews that we do, particularly as projects are proposed and come in. The environmental analysis and the technical analysis that’s conducted is very rigorous. We just follow the process.”

Knupp paid back funds, will step away from foundation

By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor

(Sept. 27, 2024) Tiffany Knupp, the founder of a nonprofit organization dedicated to raising charitable funds in her son’s name, will be placed on probation after entering an Alford plea this week to one of nine charges filed against her in an embezzlement case.

In Worcester County District Court Tuesday, Knupp, 43, entered an Alford plea to theft $1,000 to under $25,000, one of nine charges filed against her following an embezzlement investigation involving the Gavin Knupp Foundation, a nonprofit she helped start following her son’s death. As a condition of her year-long probation, Knupp will pay $6,500 in restitution and will

separate herself from the nonprofit, which will be dissolved.

“The foundation has done tremendous work. It helped a lot of people,” Knupp’s attorney, Thomas Maronick Jr., said following Tuesday’s court proceeding. “And if there’s some good that’s a part of this, everything that the foundation has done to help people, those funds will be donated to other charities of the board’s choosing. So this is a situation where good will continue to be done.”

In an Alford plea, the defendant maintains their innocence but acknowledges that the prosecution has enough evidence to convict them should their case proceed to trial. In court this week, Maronick said his client had made a

See FOUNDATION Page 22

Impact on harbor worries many

Continued from Page 18

and unfinalized guidance.”

Lapp said in her July letter of refusal that neither BOEM nor the states have the authority to require wind developers to compensate commercial fishing operators for anything via the RFA route.

“The RFA is purely a creation of policy with no legal authority backing it or,

importantly, protecting those impacted by it,” she said. “It is clear that BOEM, developers, and the states collaborated on this approach behind closed doors from 2021 onwards, in order to fill a “gap” that legislation does not address. And since no authorizing legislation exists, there is no way to litigate if the RFA should fail commercial fisheries.”

2 x 6.28

Foundation must be dissolved

Continued from Page 20

mistake and was willing to enter an Alford plea to theft, with the remaining charges to be indefinitely postponed.

“The reason she is here today is she wasn’t diligent enough in writing checks out,” he told the judge.

Last December, during a divorce proceeding in Wicomico County, it was revealed that Knupp had used the foundation’s funds to pay her personal attorney, according to charging documents filed this summer. An investigation into the foundation’s bank account showed two payments – one for $2,500 and another for $4,000 –were made to her attorney’s law firm.

The investigation also revealed other questionable payments, one involving the foundation’s charitable contribution to a local family, and another involving proceeds from shirt sales. As a result, nine charges – including felonies of embezzlement, theft $1,500 to under $25,000, and theft scheme $1,500 to under $25,000 – were filed against Knupp.

“Between January 1, 2023, and December 29, 2023, Tiffany embezzled a total of $12,625 by exploiting her position as the president of the Gavin Knupp Foundation,” the charging documents read.

During Tuesday’s court proceeding, special prosecutor Wessman Garner of Somerset County said none of the

money used to pay Knupp’s divorce attorney had been approved by the foundation. “At no point did any of the board members give Ms. Knupp permission to use those funds …,” he said.

As a result of Knupp’s Alford plea, Judge Daniel Mumford placed Knupp on unsupervised probation for one year and ordered that she be removed from the foundation and its bank account. Mumford also ordered that she pay the agreed-upon restitution of $6,500 and dissolve the Gavin Knupp Foundation, with all remaining funds to be distributed to local charities.

“I think the Alford plea was appropriate in this case,” Mumford said.

Maronick said Tuesday he was pleased by the outcome in his client’s case. He said for the most part, Knupp had already complied with most of the conditions outlined by the judge.

“Obviously, we would have loved to have had a not guilty acquittal of all charges, have the state dismiss the charges. That wasn’t in the cards,” he said. “But this offer was too much to turn down. As Judge Mumford said today, he believed the Alford plea was appropriate. We believe the same as well.”

While Knupp’s case has concluded, the case against Mailloux continues to move forward in Worcester County Circuit Court. A motions hearing is set for Nov. 21, and a 13-day trial has been scheduled for next March.

Day care abuse case moved to Circuit Court

By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor

(Sept. 27, 2024) The case against a former Berlin daycare worker accused of child abuse will be forwarded to Worcester County Circuit Court as a result of a criminal indictment filed this week.

On Monday, Lionel Evans, 57, of Princess Anne, was indicted in Worcester County Circuit Court on charges of second-degree child abuse, second-degree assault and reckless endangerment. While Evans was set to appear in district court for a preliminary hearing Tuesday, his attorney, Thomas Maronick Jr., said the case will now be forwarded to the higher court. An initial appearance has been scheduled for Oct. 9.

“What happened today with Mr. Evans is the case was indicted to circuit court,” he said. “What that means is they have presented his case to a grand jury, presenting just the state’s information. What’s important with that is that the defense has not had an evidentiary hearing. We’ve not had a chance to present evidence, we’ve not had a chance to challenge any of the evidence … All they’ve done is accuse him of a crime, and it’s been forwarded to the high court.”

Last month, Berlin police launched an investigation after the

parent of a four-year-old attending the Berlin Activities Depot reported an incident that occurred at the facility’s playground on Aug. 13. The parent told officers Evans, a gymnastics coach at the Berlin Activities Depot, had grabbed his child by the back of his neck, leaving a red mark, scratches and bruising. The parent said his child was not listening and had run away from Evans on the playground.

“Child protective services was contacted, and a forensic interview was conducted on August 14, 2024,” a statement of charges reads. “The child disclosed during the interview that he had marks on his neck. The child stated that Lionel (Evans) did it while he was playing on the playground. The child stated that Lionel (Evans) put his hand around the child’s neck and that it caused his neck to hurt. The child stated that afterwards, he was crying and Lionel stated to the child he was going to be in timeout for what he did.”

Police report the footage obtained from the Berlin Activities Depot showed the child running toward the playground equipment and Evans chasing after him. According to charging documents, Evans grabbed the child by the back of the neck, and the child fell to the ground. Police

said Evans was also seen “forcefully grabbing the child’s right upper arm and lifting him to his feet.”

As a result of the investigation, Evans was arrested on one felony charge of second-degree child abuse and one misdemeanor charge of second-degree assault, and a preliminary hearing was set for Sept. 24 in Worcester County Circuit Court. Maronick said this week his client’s arrest has resulted in his termination from the Berlin Activities Depot and his suspension from USA Gymnastics.

“He came here because he wanted to share that knowledge and expertise and help kids to become the best that they can be,” he said of his client’s employment with the Berlin Activities Depot. “And these allegations have been devastating. Not only does he deny them,

BETHANY HOOPER/OC TODAY-DISPATCH

Attorney Thomas Maronick Jr., pictured with his client Lionel Evans, disputed the charges against Evans in statements made to the press after his case was moved to Circuit Court.

Cause probed in abandoned Pocomoke structure blaze

(Sept. 27, 2024) Shortly after midnight on Sept. 17, Worcester County Emergency Services received 911 calls reporting a structure fire at 305 Second St. in Pocomoke City and dispatched multiple departments to respond.

According to a news release from the Worcester County Fire Marshal’s Office, firefighters from Pocomoke City Volunteer Fire Company were the first on scene and encountered a twostory residence heavily engulfed in fire.

It took firefighters from multiple companies in both Worcester and Accomack counties hours to fully bring the fire under control. Due to the advanced stage of fire and dangerous conditions, the release said firefighters conducted exterior suppression activities and worked quickly to prevent the fire from spreading to adjacent homes. At least two of the surrounding homes were damage, but were largely spared due to firefighting efforts. Worcester County Fire Marshal’s Office investigators learned that the house was uninhabited at the time and was undergoing renovations. The structure was a complete loss, as it collapsed during the fire, leaving only charred remnants behind.

The cause of the fire remains under investigation. Investigators are requesting that anyone with information, including pictures and/or video, contact the Worcester County Fire Marshal’s Office at 410-632-5666 or firemarshal@co.worcester.md.us. Tips may also be submitted anonymously to the Maryland Arson Hotline at 800-492-7529.

Evans disputing assault charges

Continued from Page 23

but the fact is he is on suspension as far as his association with USA Gymnastics now because of these charges … Obviously he wants to get past these charges and go back to what he does really well, helping kids and helping them grow.”

Evans has continued to deny the allegations, and several parents and children at the Berlin Activities Depot have voiced their support for the former gymnastics coach. Since Evans’s arrest, Berlin Activities Depot owner Carmella Solito has invited parents to view video footage of the incident.

“Our center remains committed to providing the highest standard of care for your children,” the message reads. “We are continuously evaluating and improving our practices to ensure we meet and exceed all safety and care requirements set forth by the state of Maryland for childcare.”

Evans’s arrest came on the heels of another child abuse investigation, which resulted in two former daycare workers at the Berlin facility being arrested earlier this year. On Aug. 19, Worcester County Circuit Court Judge Brian Shockley found Heather Ward, 40, of Berlin, guilty of nine counts of second-degree assault on which she had tendered an Alford plea, which acknowledges that the state has enough evidence to prove Ward guilty beyond a reasonable doubt should the case proceed to trial. The remaining 81 counts in her case, including 10 felony charges, were not prosecuted as part of Ward’s plea agreement with the state. In June, a second 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. A trial in that case will be held next month.

PHOTO COURTESY WORCESTER COUNTY FIRE MARSHAL’S OFFICE

A structure on Second Street in Pocomoke is pictured fully engulfed in flames after catching fire after midnight Sept. 17.

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ACCESSIBILITY & TRANSPARENCY

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Purnell upset over Pocomoke funding twist

By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor

(Sept 27, 2024) County officials have agreed to reassign some of the infrastructure grants it recently provided to Pocomoke City to the newly formed Pocomoke City Development Corporation.

Last month, the county received a request from Pocomoke City to repurpose $145,083 in unused infrastructure grants it had received in fiscal years 2023-2025. At its Sept. 17 meeting, however, the Worcester County Commissioners voted 5-2, with Commissioners Joe Mitrecic and Diana Purnell opposed, to reallocate $96,766 of that funding to the Pocomoke City Development Corporation, a new nonprofit formed to aid business owners and homeowners in revitalizing the town.

“Every town that has gotten these

grants has used that money,” Purnell said. “Maybe they had a time when they didn't use it. But now that they want to use it, and they have a project that they want to use it on, and we take it away from them, there's something wrong with that picture for me.”

In the last three fiscal years, the county has granted the City of Pocomoke with more than $145,000 – $46,807 in fiscal year 2023, $49,959 in fiscal year 2024 and $48,317 in fiscal year 2025 –for various infrastructure projects throughout town. However, Chief Administrative Officer Weston Young told the commissioners last week that Pocomoke has yet to utilize its funding.

“Typically if the money isn't spent it goes right back to our general fund,” he explained. “In the case of the fiscal year 2023 and 2024 amounts, we encumbered that due to the significant

turnover with Pocomoke City. We have several emails and calls that, generally, went unanswered during time periods where they didn't have a finance person or they didn't have a clerk or they, you know, they went without a city manager for some time.”

In August, Pocomoke Mayor Todd Nock penned a letter seeking the commissioners’ approval to repurpose its unspent grant awards for fiscal years 2023-2025 and to utilize it for street repairs within the municipality. But Young told the commissioners last week that the county had also received a funding request from the Pocomoke City Development Corporation.

“We have a request from Pocomoke City to repurpose the fiscal year 2023, 2024 and 2025 infrastructure grants,” he explained. “This is changing from the previously stated projects to the

repair of the streets and roads within the city. In addition, we've received an email from the newly incorporated Pocomoke City Development Corporation, a 501c3 asking for funding for restoration projects within the city.”

With both requests presented, Commissioner Caryn Abbott made a motion to reallocate fiscal years 2023 and 2024 funding to the newly developed nonprofit. She said Pocomoke had been made aware of the grant funding available to the municipality, but that the money had not been used.

“Now you know, they claim they've never heard anything about it,” she said.

“They heard it from me, they heard it from our staff. They have no receipts for those years. So the money is staying in Pocomoke with PCDC, and it will be used to benefit the people of Pocomoke.”

While Mitrecic said the county could consider providing a grant to the development corporation, he said he didn’t support taking infrastructure funding away from Pocomoke City. Purnell agreed.

“We have never done this before with money that's given to towns,” she said. “They use that money for their purpose and what they want to use it for.”

Abbott’s motion, seconded by Commissioner Jim Bunting, passed in a 5-2 vote. At the end of last week’s meeting, Purnell said she was upset

Diakonia expands homeless services to three counties

By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor

(Sept. 20, 2024) Members of Diakonia’s Rapid Response Team are now working fulltime to assist homeless individuals in the tri-county area.

In April of 2023, Diakonia launched its Rapid Response Team, a pilot program in which members are dispatched as soon as law enforcement, EMTs, hospitals, or other service providers identify new homeless individuals. Earlier this month, however, the nonprofit announced the program is now fully operational in Worcester, Wicomico and Somerset counties.

“We were operating every day of the week, we just weren’t able to respond to all the calls with boots on the ground,” said Vance Larson, team leader. “Now, we have that capability.”

For years, Diakonia has been a member of the Worcester County Homeless Outreach Team (HOT), a multi-agency effort to connect homeless individuals with local resources. Working alongside HOT members and local agencies, Larson, Program Coordinator Stephanie VanGasbeck, and Rapid Response Team member Rick Hamilton spend their week responding to the needs of individuals experiencing homelessness and connecting them to local resources. In its first year, the program aided 319 people.

“The model of the HOT Team wasn't able to keep up with the need,” Larson said. “So this allowed us to get a more realistic depiction of what's happening in the county.”

Rapid Response Team members say a majority of the homeless individuals they encounter are struggling with substance use and mental health disorders. Others, they add, are victims of trafficking or domestic violence, or have lost homes due to rising rent.

“Homelessness is very fluid,” Larson said. “We have a lot of people that we work with, which we call the hidden homeless. These are people who are hopping from hotel to hotel, paycheck to paycheck. They sleep a night in the car, then they go to the hotel, and then they couch surf.”

Larson added, “We're passionate about this work and we care immensely about the population,” Larson said. “We know that sometimes very bad times fall on some very good people, and some people lose their way. And that's OK. We're not about judging them. We're going to help them.”

Community members wishing to support the Rapid Response Team can visit diakoniaoc.org, click on the “Donate Now” button, and specify “Rapid Response Team” in the comment section of the donation form.

• 6 BR/6 BA

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Berlin chamber plans two new events for ‘25 calendar

By Tara Fischer Staff Writer

(Sept. 26, 2024) The schedule for the Berlin Chamber of Commerce’s 2025 events is set.

The organization will host a spring celebration on Saturday, April 19, the Saturday before Easter, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Jazz and Blues on Saturday, May 3, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., or the rain date of Saturday, May 10; Spring Cruisers on Saturday, May 17 from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.; the Bathtub Races on Friday, June 20 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.; and a new music concert event, with specific planning still in progress, on Saturday July 12 from noon to 5 p.m.

Another occurrence to be added to the 2025 lineup is Chili and Chili Peppers, a day filled with chili and chili pepper competitions, music, and vendors, which will take place on Saturday, Aug. 23, from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. A smalltown event – this year called the Small Town Block Party and previously known as the Small Town Throw Down — is scheduled for Saturday, Sept. 6, from noon to 5 p.m. The Fiddler’s Convention will kick off on Friday, Sept. 19 and conclude on Saturday, Sept. 20, fall cruisers is expected for Saturday, Oct. 11, from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m., and Octoberfest is slated for Oct. 18 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. The Fiddler’s Convention has

rain dates of Friday, Sept. 26, and Saturday, Sept. 27.

Alcohol will be served at Jazz and Blues, the July 12 music concert, the chili and chili pepper competition, the Sept. 6 small-town event, the Fiddler’s Convention, and Octoberfest.

At its Monday, Sept. 23 meeting, the Berlin Town Council unanimously approved the chamber of commerce’s 2025 schedule, and beer, wine, and liquor permits for the six aforementioned events.

Councilmember Steve Green noted Ocean City and the special event promoter rescheduled the 2025 Cruisin’ from May 15-May 18 to May 1-4 and questioned whether the Berlin Chamber of Commerce was still confident that its cruisers event, set for May 17 would have the same draw without the Ocean City event.

Chamber Director Rebecca Patrowicz, who started in the position on Sept. 11, confirmed that she and her team believed the Berlin cruiser day would still bring in a crowd. She added that the Jazz and Blues, set for Saturday, May 3, the same weekend as Ocean City’s 2025 Cruisin’, will remain on the set date, as it has traditionally occurred during the month’s first weekend, and people like and are accustomed to it.

By Tara Fischer Staff Writer

(September 20, 2024) Worcester Technical High School will now offer students a fresh pathway into the music industry.

At their Tuesday, September 17 meeting, the Worcester County Board of Education heard a presentation from Coordinator of Instruction Tamara Mills regarding the facility’s new digital audio and video production program. The class will allow students to pursue careers or further their education in the music and video industry.

Mills highlighted a few of the jobs made possible by the skills learned in a production program, including broadcast, sound, and video technicians, music and video editors, film and video camera operators, sound and audio engineers, announcers, DJs, lighting and stage engineers, analysts and journalists, photographers and videographers, and music supervisors.

Mills noted that while these jobs may be difficult to find on the Eastern Shore, “technology is advancing, and this area is growing.”

Chief Safety and Academic Officer

Annette Wallace highlighted Pocomoke High School alum Andrew Baylis, who is a producer on country music singer Jelly Roll’s album “Whitsitt Chapel,” which is currently nominated for Album of the Year at the upcoming CMA Awards, scheduled for Wednesday, Nov. 20 at 8 p.m.

“We have a Pocomoke High School graduate right now in line for a very big national award for a program just like this,” Wallace said. “…The program that Tamara is presenting, if he had had an opportunity at this program, I’m sure this would have been something he would have been very plugged in.”

Wallace continued, adding that Worcester County Public Schools’ chief goal is to ensure that each student is involved in and “plugged into” an extracurricular or organization outside traditional academics.

The program, which was launched this year, currently has 15 enrolled students. Mills said that the school system received $500,000 from the Maryland State Department of Education’s Innovation Grant to get the class off the ground. The funding was a “startup” that was used to retrofit the classroom and television studio but will sustain the instruction for the foreseeable future.

“It is done,” Mills said. “We have the program…we were able to, within the staff positions we had, move folks around to be able to supply the teacher, but after this, there is no more grant money for this particular project, but it is good to go for quite a few years.”

Audio and video course reviewed

The digital audio and video production initiative is important for student engagement. According to Mills, participation in the arts, particularly instrumental and choral music, has decreased since the COVID-19 pandemic.

She also said that students are showcasing an interest in alternative forms of music, apart from the traditional band, orchestra, or choirs, like the digital media side of the industry. The county intends to use the new program to reach the state-mandated goal that 45% of graduates leave high school with an Industry Recognized Credential (IRC) or an apprenticeship.

As with any career and technical education initiative, Mills said that the digital audio and video production class has partners. Organizers have met with Salisbury University Music Department Chair Dr. Colleen Clark, Suzanna Mallow, SU’s music production and sound technician, and Lynn Patterson, a professor of practice and consultant at Towson University.

WTHS is working with industry members, such as Mike LeCates from Mid-South Audio, a recording studio in Milton, Delaware, regional multimedia artists Dave Messick and Mo Waters, and Dr. Paul Tooker from the Freeman Arts Pavilion, to further the program’s reach.

Upon completion of the Worcester Tech course, participants may also receive four credits for Salisbury University’s Introduction to Music Technology class and will receive certification in Adobe Premiere Pro.

Mills maintained that the new program is an addition to the county’s artistic groups, not a replacement.

“We want students in there who love music,” she said. “But not everyone loves music in the same way. This program is not to take away our bands at the home schools or to poach their students…we offer this program in the morning and the afternoon so they can still have band or chorus at their home school if that fits in their schedule… what we are looking for are students who love music but are not plugged in yet. Who loves music in a less conventional way or loves the new technology piece of music.”

The board is excited about the possibilities this new addition to the tech school will create for the young learners.

“There are a lot of students out there that are going to be very happy with this opportunity because it is going to open up a window for them to explore some of their dreams,” Todd Ferrante, the board president, said.

Questions about the digital audio and video production program can be sent to Mills at TJMills@worcesterk12.org or Worcester County Public Schools Coordinator of Instruction Brian Phillips at BCPillips@worcesterk12.org.

#TYLERSTRONG SUPPORT GROWS

Volunteers Mike DePalma and Erin Shimko manned a booth in honor of Tyler Walsh last Saturday during the Berlin Fiddlers Convention. The volunteers worked the booth spreading awareness to event attendees about the collision that hospitalized Walsh, a 16-year-old junior at Stephen Decatur High School, and sold #tylerstrong T-shirts. Numerous monetary donations were presented at the booth that will be shared with the Walsh family during this time of need. Shirts can be purchased with profits directed to the Walshes at https://tylerstrong.square.site. STEVE GREEN/ OC TODAY-DISPATCH

“In the end I believe my generation will surprise everyone. We already know both political parties are playing both sides from the middle and we’ll elect a true outsider when we fully mature. I wouldn’t be surprised if it’s not a business tycoon who can’t be bought and who does what’s right for the people. Someone like Donald Trump as crazy as that sounds.” ~Kurt Cobain, 1993

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N.Y. RESIDENT WINS VACATION

Throughout the summer season, the Coconuts Beach Bar & Grill at the Castle in the Sand Hotel held a Tipsy Tuesday Contest. Each of the week’s winning contestants were eligible to be entered into a grand prize drawing held last Sunday afternoon. The grand prize is a five-night vacation at the Green Turtle Club in the Bahamas for two people. As is tradition, each of the week’s summer contestants were invited – and given a free night at the Castle -- to attend the drawing with the last turtle in the pool declared the winner. The grand prize winner was East Greenbush, N.Y. resident Craig Rounds. Pictured, above from left, are Jeff Hicks, food and beverage manager; winner Rounds; Olivia Tracy, manager; Josh White, assistant food and beverage manager; and Jeremy Johnson, assistant general manager.

STEVE GREEN/OC TODAY-DISPATCH

Proposed Berlin community center feasibility study OK’d

By Tara Fischer Staff Writer

(Sept. 26, 2024) The proposed Berlin Community Center off Flower Street is set to undergo a feasibility study.

The creation of the Berlin Community Center has been a goal for the Town of Berlin for decades. Over the last year, numerous efforts have been made, agreements reached and funding secured, as the process continues to inch forward.

At its Monday, Sept. 23 meeting, another big step took place, as the Town Council unanimously approved Haley Architecture for the project’s first phase, a feasibility study and preliminary design services.

The feasibility study will not exceed $103,880. Funding for this project stage comes from the $100,000 awarded by the Community Development Block Grant Program, which the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development provided to the town.

The state’s financial assistance will pay for almost the entire feasibility study, and town funds will cover the difference.

The proposed community center is to be placed at 130 Flower Street, formerly the site of Flower Street School, a learning institution that operated in the early 20th century. Through a partnership between the Town of Berlin, Berlin Community

Improvement Association (BCIA), SHOREUP! Inc., and the Worcester County Commissioners, officials have combined four parcels on the Flower Street site to be used for the new facility.

The community center will offer meeting rooms, recreational space, and fitness and sports-related activities to town and county residents.

The feasibility study to be completed by Haley Architecture will include gathering community input, evaluating community needs, defining the program, and “ultimately providing a roadmap to the eventual final design and construction of a new community center for the Town of Berlin,” the company’s proposal reads.

The scope of the initial feasibility assessment will include a community input summary, a space needs spreadsheet, a site analysis, an operational evaluation from physical, security and efficiency perspectives, cost estimates for site, building and systems construction, project timelines and a preliminary conceptual massing and site design.

According to the proposal, Haley Architecture will “perform site visits to identify existing features and constraints of the site and prepare an existing conditions exhibit showing site access and circulation, utility availability, roads and right of way, structures, sidewalks, and pedestrian cir-

Meetings part of community input

culation, topography, environmental features, slopes, etc. on the site…”

The firm will also “provide a preliminary engineering review study for the new community center from available jurisdictional records for the property to understand its development potential based on the client’s desired development program, site development standards, utility availability and upgrade requirements for proposed uses.” This includes a preliminary evaluation of existing site access, as well as parking and stormwater management and drainage design requirements.

In the feasibility study proposal, Haley Architecture promises to perform an initial site visit to determine existing conditions and provide a “pre-design narrative project summary outlining the project history, findings from the landscape architect’s site investigation including photo documentation of existing condition and opportunities, proposed scope of work, and design recommendations that serve the proposed uses on site and meet applicable code requirements.”

An interior design team will facilitate communication and gather information from the community center committee members and the residents of Berlin to recommend spatial arrangements and square footage allocations.

Berlin and Worcester County residents are encouraged to participate in a community survey to indicate to the town and developers what amenities, like fitness classes, health and wellness services, arts and crafts workshops, social events, and educational programs, they would like to see at the center. The questionnaire, which is still open and can be found at berlinmd.gov/community, will be consolidated by Salisbury University’s Business, Economic, and Community Outreach Network (BEACON) and turned over to Haley Architecture to consider for the design of the site.

The architectural firm will also confer with the community through in-person gatherings and focus groups.

“The survey will just be a piece of the feasibility study,” said Daniele Haley of Haley Architecture. “The feasibility study will start to be informed by the survey, but we will also hold community meetings, two bigger ones where we invite everyone to come … and a smaller committee put together. The idea is to try to get these ideas to create a clear, defined path forward that has a clear size and budget attached to it.”

Upon the conclusion of the feasibility study, which is expected to take roughly 90 days, Haley Architecture will provide the town with a report with recommendations and options for building the community center.

Berlin officials added that in an effort to fund the community center, they applied for federal earmark funding and were approved for $479,000 for the project. However, the town will not know for sure if the money will come through until the federal budget is passed in December.

The town is excited the creation of the community center continues to progress.

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Museum’s events slate for 2025 approved

concerts on the second Sunday of each summer month, are slated for June 8, July 13, Aug. 10, and Sept. 14. These events begin at 6 p.m. and conclude around 7:30 p.m.

By Tara Fischer Staff Writer

(Sept. 26, 2024) Berlin’s Calvin B. Taylor House Museum’s schedule of events is set for next year.

At the Berlin Town Council’s Monday, Sept. 23 meeting, the governing group unanimously passed the nonprofit museum’s proposed dates for 2025 events.

The museum will host a pig roast on Saturday, April 19, from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m., the beloved Peach Festival on Saturday, Aug. 2, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., and the Book Festival on Saturday, Oct. 18, from noon to 4 p.m. The “Second Sundays at the Museum,”

Alcohol will be permitted and served at the pig roast, the Book Festival and the summer concert series. Adult beverages will not be available at the Peach Festival.

The council expressed excitement at the museum’s 2025 schedule and the culture the facility continues to bring to Berlin.

“The museum is such a jewel for the Town of Berlin,” Councilmember Steve Green said. “It has been that way for a long time, but there is this new energy surrounding it … the Peach Festival is the hallmark event, but the concerts on the lawn where you have toddlers to 75-year-olds and

kids running around the lawn … it is a special place, and I am really proud of what you guys have done.”

Melissa Reid, president of the Taylor House, added that the museum showed “Runaway Bride” on the facility’s lawn on July 27 in honor of the movie’s 25th anniversary. The film, starring Julia Roberts and Richard Gere, was shot mainly in the Town of Berlin in 1998 and released to theaters on July 30, 1999.

Movies on the lawn were summer staples of the museum many years ago but have since fizzled out. Movies were once held on Jefferson Street on a blow up screen as well, but inconsistent attendance led to them being scrapped. However, community residents received the “Runaway Bride” movie showing well, and organizers are planning to bring the film tradi-

tion back.

“We did the ‘Runaway Bride’ movie this summer for the 25th anniversary, which was hugely popular,” Reid said. “We had an outpouring of excitement that there was a movie back in Berlin, so we are in discussions with our board of directors about starting to do movies again at the museum. That is something we will see going forward, so hopefully, we will probably do two or three next summer during the season.”

The Taylor House has already scheduled a Halloween-themed movie at the museum event. On Sunday, Oct. 13, at 7 p.m., the center will play “The Legend of Sleepy Hollow.” The film will be shown on the lawn, and attendees are encouraged to bring a chair or blanket. The event is free, but snacks will be for sale, and museum donations are welcome.

At least one elected official was delighted to see the movie at the museum event return to the Taylor House.

“I am very excited about all these events, but I am particularly excited about the movies,” Councilman Jack Orris, a member of the Taylor House board, said. “… It is a nice addition and an event held in the past that is missing and would be welcome back.”

Oceans Calling Recoverry

Councilmember Shaneka Nichols suggested that the museum consider showing local movies, like “Ping Pong Summer,” a 2014 independent film that premiered at the Sundance Film Festival and was set and shot in Ocean City, as well as Violets Are Blue, which was filmed in the Ocean City area and released in 1986.

Reid also added that in 2026, the Taylor House is partnering with Salisbury University to honor and celebrate the 250th anniversary of the United States of America. She expects that the museum, in collaboration with SU, will host a whole year’s worth of activities and events.

Upcoming Calvin B. Taylor House ongoings can be found on the museum’s website and social media.

THERAPY DOGS VISIT

Ocean City Elementary School recently had some very special visitors, therapy dogs, Tiffany and Winston, a pair of Cavalier King Charles spaniels, who are part of Pets on Wheels of Delmarva. Tiffany and Weston are pictured during their visit with OCEs students and teachers.

SURF CLUB DONATION

DAWG TEAM APPRECIATED

FEATURED SPEAKER

MIDDLE SCHOOL DONATION

PHOTOS COURTESY OCEAN CITY ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

PHOTO COURTESY OCEAN CITY SURF CLUB

The Ocean City Surf Club donated $1,000 to Ocean City’s Fire Station 3 Fund for furniture for the new Fire Station. Pictured, from left, with the check are Public Information Officer Ryan Whittington, OC Surf Club Vice President Rusty Ruszin, Fire Chief Richard Bowers and OC Surf Club President Tommy Vach.

PHOTO COURTESY DAVID J. LANDIS SR.

Members of the Kiwanis Club of Ocean Pines-Ocean City’s Dawg Team were recently thanked for their work selling concessions at community events to raise money for high school scholarships, school Kiwanis clubs and local service organizations. Pictured, holding thank you mugs with President Bob Wolfing, far left, are team members Tom Flanagan, Mary Page, Ron Wildgust, John Hulit, Doug Ege and Sarah Walker.

PHOTO COURTESY DAVID J. LANDIS SR.

Latrice Price of Infinite Legacy is pictured with Kiwanis Club of Ocean Pines-Ocean City President Bob Wolfing, left, and Kiwanis member Jack McLaughlin at a recent club meeting where she served as the guest speaker.

PHOTO COURTESY DAVID J. LANDIS SR. FINANCIAL SPEECH

Kiwanis Club of Greater Ocean Pines-Ocean City guest speaker Carrie DuPuie, a Raymond James financial advisor, is pictured with Club President Bob Wolfing member John Hulit at a recent meeting.

PHOTO COURTESY RANDY’S CREW

Jackie Siejack

RESCUE EFFORTS RECOGNIZED

At the Sept. 17 Worcester County Commissioners meeting, area firefighters, EMS, and police from multiple agencies were honored. On Aug. 4, members of the Berlin Fire, Ocean Pines Volunteer Fire, Showell Volunteer Fire, Ocean City Volunteer Fire, Maryland State Police, Worcester County Sheriff’s Office, Worcester HAZMAT team, Worcester County Emergency Services, Berlin Police and Ocean Pines Police responded to a collision on Route 50 involving a car and a tanker truck, which resulted in hazardous materials spilling from the tanker and the car becoming engulfed in flames.

• The history of Ocean City, Md., from its beginning in the 1870s to the present day. Over 500 photo images.

• A hardbound, 220-page coffee table book featuring cover by noted artist Paul McGehee.

• Over seven years in the making with personal memories of Ocean City’s locals and visitors. Recall your own favorite memories of Maryland’s famous beach resort.

• Revisit the old restaurants and long-vanished hotels, relive summer nights on the Boardwalk, go fishing on the ocean or the bay, and learn about the fires and storms that changed the town forever.

Vanishing Ocean City is available for $49.95 at select locations in Ocean City, Berlin, Ocean Pines and Salisbury. It can also be ordered online at vanishingoceancity.com. Visit the website for

and photos.

by Steve Green

IThe Adventures of Fatherhood

t’s been a while since I have rattled off some “I see you” parenting moments, so here goes this week. I intend this as more of a “I see you and I feel you” type of observations. We are all in this parenting journey together and a bit of recognition and appreciation goes a long way.

• I see you … parents waiting in the car early in the morning while your teen runs into Dunkin’ for a snack or drink. Some of you are on your phones. Some of you are talking to others in the car. Some of you are surely wondering why this stop is even necessary and whether outside drinks are even permitted in school. In particular, I see you, a father, just looking straight ahead in a trance, seemingly enjoying the tranquility of the moment.

• I see you … fathers independently entertaining requests from children while asking, “what did your mom say?” The question is asked often by parents who often get played like a fiddle by their kids. In my household, I often question Beckett when he asks whether I was the first to be broached with the request. It’s not uncommon for teens to not like an answer from one parent and then rework the context and the ask the other parent to see if the answer changes. I have been burned on this numerous times with the result being stink eyes from the teen and the wife. Therefore, while the question of “can we go get my girlfriend so we can watch a movie in the den” may seem banal, there’s almost always something else to the matter. It’s why the question is almost always asked, “did you ask your Mom this already?” It’s called parenting shopping.

• I see you … wondering if Homecoming is more about you as parents or the kids themselves. This crossed my mind a few times last week, as Pam focused on all the details involved with Beckett going to his junior Homecoming with his girlfriend. There was

more to it than I realized, although I evidently had been briefed.

• I see you … driving away from school. While I don’t know your specific circumstances, I feel certain there are a few deep breaths being had. In my case, with two teenagers, the drop-offs at school are not always joyful and lovely. Sometimes there’s mutual silence on the ride. Sometimes reminders provided are met with eyerolls and a bit of something I call, “teenitude.”

• I see you … sports parents standing off by yourself because you don’t trust yourself enough not to say (shout) aloud what you are thinking. This could just be me so maybe it should be “I see me.”

• I see you … teachers walking in a group after school as I wonder whether it’s a moving self-help therapy session or good old-fashioned venting. No matter the specifics, there’s passion involved, and the steps are being well taken.

• I see you … dad sitting at the bar with a carryout bag for the family at home next to you on one side and a cocktail on the other.

• I see you … dad pushing a stroller with a little one at a Berlin event while a mobile kid darts over unexpected to who knows who and why.

• I see you … teachers seemingly starting each day with fresh perspective and positivity. This can’t be easy –especially on Mondays — but I know it’s appreciated.

• I see you … folks wondering why showers take a minimum of 15 minutes for teens. I have gotten to the point I can tell he’s actually not even in the shower and is walking around his room. He says it takes a while to get warm. I say that’s nonsense and then we argue over why he says I always think he’s lying.

• I see you … teens strategizing together like a bunch of masterminds. Only time will tell what it’s about, the goal of the session and how it will impact me. Or maybe it’s just about girls

and has nothing to do with me.

• I see you … girl dads. One of my oldest and best friends has two teenage daughters. We often commiserate about the differences between girls and boys. I remember how his girls were so well behaved on the beach as little ones, while my boys –who are only 19 months apart in age –were the polar opposite. Nowadays, as I think about the boys inevitably dating my buddy’s daughters, I wonder about the feelings that girl dads must work through. Whenever he and I wander into this conversation, his hands inevitably go to his face as he shakes his head in bewilderment of how life got to this point.

• I see you … parents at stop lights with multiple kids in the vehicle starring at electronics. I believe I know exactly what you are thinking as you stare straight ahead, but I wonder if the radio is on or whether each electronic is playing different sounds and videos.

• I see you … recreation league coaches doing the best you can on the sidelines and wondering why I volunteered for this role on Saturday mornings after working all week. The answer is love, and it’s a super thing.

• I see you … exhausted parents on the beach sitting in your chairs grateful for whatever is in the cup next to you and siblings to entertain each other.

• I see you … mothers catching your breath while slowly walking through the grocery store aisle after work. I assume there’s an enjoyment of the peace and quiet after a long day before heading home with a load of groceries and responsibilities.

• I see you … parents in the waiting room at the dentist hoping there’s no cavities for the kid but also okay if there is to send a message about subpar brushing and flossing.

(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.)

Art League invites artists to submit for future shows

(Sept. 27, 2024) Art League of Ocean City officials are inviting artists to submit pieces for upcoming shows at the Ocean City Center for the Arts.

For all shows, artists should check out the requirements, entry fees, and how to enter at OCart.org/call-for-entries, or by calling center for the arts at 410-524-9433.

The deadlines for entering October’s “The Red Thread” exhibit, curated by Deborah Rolig, of Berlin, are Sept. 29-30. The Red Thread holds significance in many cultures as a symbol of connectivity. Submitted artwork must have a touch of red as a symbol of unity and solidarity within the arts community. Entries should be dropped off at the arts center at the appointment time made online.

The annual “Shared Visions” show, in which artists and writers collaborate, has an entry deadline of Oct. 14, and all entries are submitted online. The art league will curate a selection of artwork, and writers will choose a piece as inspiration for their poetry or short prose. All media is eligible.

The deadline for the art league’s annual Holiday Artisan Fair is Oct. 18. The event will feature handcrafted jewelry, glass, ceramics, sculpture, fiber arts, and local authors/illustrators.

The entry window for the Art League’s Annual Members Juried Art Show is open from Oct. 7 through Nov. 4, and entries are to be submitted online. Artists may enter up to two pieces.

A group show in November called “The Art of Gratitude” has entry dates of Oct. 27-28 with in-person drop-off at the arts center by appointments made online. Artists are tasked to create work to express thanks, including abstract interpretations, or capturing moments of beauty or meaningful objects.

The annual “Small Works” show in Studio E during December has in-person drop-off dates of Dec. 1-2 at the arts center by appointments made online. Art must be no larger than 12 inches in any direction and be priced for holiday giving.

Drop-off appointments and more information, including hanging requirements, are available at OCart.org/call-for-entries, or by calling 410-524-9433.

Another auxiliary member with deep roots

By Steve Price Contributing Writer

(Sept. 27, 2024) Again, this week we are pleased to recognize another member of the Ocean City Volunteer Fire Company Ladies Auxiliary, Life Member Patsy Elliott Adkins.

Patsy is a native of Ocean City and grew up on Golf Course Road in West Ocean City. Her family represents yet another of the many families that have for generations provided service to the Ocean City community through their commitment to our volunteer fire company.

Patsy’s father, William Thomas Elliott Jr., was a member of the OCVFC in the 1950s before dying at a young age. Her uncle, Charles Elliott, was a Gold Badge member of the OCVFC

and served many years as chief engineer for the volunteer fire company.

Another uncle, Robert “Bob” Murray, was a life member of the OCVFC.

Additionally, her husband, John Paul “J. Paul” Adkins, is a life member and past president of the OCVFC. Their son, John Paul Adkins II, was a member of the OCVFC Cadet program for three years before tragically passing away at the age of 17.

Patsy joined the OCVFC Ladies Auxiliary in 1980. She said she joined the OCVFCLA to serve her community and support members of the OCVFC. She also enjoys the fellowship she shares with other members of the organization.

Patsy has served in many leadership roles during her years in the

OCVFCLA – she has served as the Ladies Auxiliary chaplain for over 25 years. She currently serves on the board of directors; chairman of the Nurturing Committee; member of the Fundraising Committee and serves on the John Paul Adkins II Scholarship Committee.

She previously served as the liaison to the OCVFC Cadet Program for the Ladies Auxiliary. She has been recognized as the Member of the Year and also the recipient of the Lifetime Achievement Award.

Patsy said the most significant event of her years with the OCVFCLA was her response, along with other members of the Ladies Auxiliary, to a wooded area near Parsonsburg to assist with a search for an elderly gen-

tleman lost in the woods. During the early evening hours and throughout the night, the ladies provided food and beverages to fire department personnel, police officers and other first responders involved in the extensive search. The gentleman was found unharmed at daylight the following morning.

Adkins’ greatest accomplishment (shared by her husband) is the establishment of the Cadet John Paul Adkins II Scholarship following the loss of her son in 2001. This scholarship has provided several cadets with financial support for post-secondary studies.

When asked to share one piece of advice with our young members, as well as others with an interest in the fire service, Patsy said: “To give of yourself by helping others during their time of need; supporting other members; and interacting positively like a family. It is very rewarding if those things are accomplished.”

We thank Patsy Adkins and all of the members of the Ocean City Volunteer Fire Company Ladies Auxiliary for their outstanding support of the OCVFC, our cadet program, and the Sacca and Adkins Memorial Scholarships.

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

Patsy Elliott Adkins

Spiced butternut squash shortcake perfect fall dish

By Deborah Lee Walker Contributing Writer

(Sept. 27, 2024) They say time is a passage of no return: but at the ripe age of 66, I beg to differ.

As a young child, I could not wait to grow up — there is a big difference between 10 years old and 10 1/2 years old.

As the grandfather clock of time progressed, joy, tears, and wisdom were the secret ingredients to maturity.

Individuality is essential, but family is the recipe that holds generations to come. As place settings around the table become empty, the miracle of life replaces them with new beginnings.

Heirloom recipes connect the past with the future and have earned their right in the cookbook of tradition. Strawberry shortcake was always popular with my family.

According to “The Delicious History of Strawberry Shortcake,” by Yolk Ideas, the earliest known shortcake recipe dates back to 1588 from an old English cookbook. The treat was popularized when William Shakespeare used the name Alice Shortcake in “Merry Wives of Wisdom.”

Originally, shortcakes were made with biscuits and paired with fresh berries and whipped cream. The contrast of textures and flavors kept the sweet course in the forefront of popularity during the spring and summer months. Today, it is accepted to serve strawberry shortcake with some form of sponge cake.

Fall is officially here and menus should reflect the change in seasons. A spiced butternut squash shortcake is a delectable spin on the customary strawberry shortcake.

The butternut squash filling is seasoned to taste like a pumpkin delight. Store-bought biscuits can be baked in less than ten minutes, which gives the dessert a crispy foundation. Homemade or storebought whipped cream ties it together. Sprinkles of a pecan crumble add crunchiness and a garnish of goodness.

As a tip, butternut squash has a creamy texture and is the preferred squash for this dessert.

Steaming the butternut squash also keeps the fruit moist. Believe it or not, but squash is botanically classified as a fruit, and not a vegetable.

Combining the squash with a can of pumpkin pie filling yields a tasty, structured consistency.

The following recipe will yield more squash filling than you need. I like to freeze the leftover filling for future use. In the long run, it saves you time.

In conclusion, if one adores the warm spices of fall, consider a spiced butternut squash shortcake for your final course.

Popular seasonal tastes combine

Spiced Butternut Squash Shortcake

Butternut Squash Filling

1 (5) pound butternut squash

1 (15 oz.) pumpkin pie filling

½ teaspoon each ground cinnamon and ground ginger

¼ teaspoon each ground allspice, ground nutmeg, and ground cloves few pinches of table salt

1. Remove skin and stringy flesh of squash.

2. Cut into 2-inch chunks and steam in a steamer until fork tender.

3. Place cooked squash, pumpkin pie filling, and spices in a medium-large bowl. Using a hand-held blender, puree the filling until very smooth.

4. Place filling in a large sieve, then position sieve over a large bowl. Place a saucer on top of the filling and press down so the juices are forced through the sieve. Do this several times and allow the mixture to sit in the sieve while finishing the recipe.

Pecan Crumble

1 cup toasted pecans

1 cup ginger snaps

½ cup crystalized ginger cubes

1. Using a food processor, pulse the

pecans until they are chopped. Place in a pie plate. Using the food processor again, pulse the ginger snaps until they form a crumb-like texture. Place in the pie plate. Again, use the food processor, and break down the ginger cubes until finely chopped. Place in pie plate and mix ingredients until fully combined.

Biscuits

1 can regular or grand biscuits

1. Follow instructions on biscuit package. Allow to cool and split in half. Set aside.

Whipped Cream

8-ounce container or 6.5 canister of store-bought whipped cream Presentation

Place the bottom of the biscuit on the serving plate. Top with whipped cream and then butternut squash filling. A dollop of whipped cream is followed by the pecan crumble.

Secret Ingredient – Fall

“If a year was tucked inside of a clock, then autumn would be the magic hour.”

— Victoria Erickson

Who’s Where When

BLU CRAB HOUSE COURTYARD

410-289-3322

24th Street & Coastal Hwy.

Fri., Sept. 27: Aaron Howell Duo

BUXY’S SALTY DOG & DRY DOCK 28

410-289-BUXY

28th Street Coastal Hwy.

Fri., Sept. 27: Jack & T

Sat., Sept. 28: Uprizing

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., Sept. 27: Royal Flush Band & Permilla Project

Sat., Sept. 28: The Runner Ups & Groove Joose

Sun., Sept. 29: Dust N Bones & DJ Connair

Thurs., Oct. 3: Chris Diller

COCONUTS BEACH BAR

410-289-6846

Oceanfront At Castle

In The Sand Hotel

37th & 38th Streets

Fri., Sept. 27: Darin Engh & Homeskool Dropouts

Sat., Sept. 28: Heather Vidal & Sister Midnight

Sun., Sept. 29: Hurricane Kevin & The Big Laird Band

Thurs., Oct. 3: Kevin Poole & Joe Mama

COINS PUB

410-289-3100

28th Street Plaza

On Coastal Hwy.

Fri., Sept. 27:

Opposite Directions

Sat., Sept. 28: DJ Giddy Up & Dust N Bones

CRABCAKE FACTORY BAYSIDE

302-988-5000

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

Fri., Sept. 27: Jason Lee

Wed., Oct. 2: Keith White Duo

CRAWL STREET TAVERN

443-373-2756

Wicomico St., Downtown O.C.

Fri., Sept. 27: Higher Education & Over The Bridge

Sat., Sept. 28: Chuck Treece

Best Beats On The Beach

HIGHER EDUCATION

Crawl Street Tavern: Friday, September 27

Pickles Pub: Saturday, September 28

PICKIN’ PARTY

Harborside: Sunday, September 29

OPPOSITE DIRECTIONS

Coins

THE RUNNER UPS

Carribbean Pool Bar: Saturday, September 28

BAD W/ NAMES

Fager’s Island: Saturday, September 28

OVER THE BRIDGE

Crawl Street Tavern: Friday, September 27

Pickles

Who’s Where When

FAGER’S ISLAND

410-524-5500

60th St., In The Bay Fri., Sept. 27: Decade80, DJ RobCee & John Frase Project Sat., Sept. 28: Vertigo Red, DJ RobCee & Bad w/ Names Mon., Sept. 30: Lowercase Blues & DJ Wax

GREENE TURTLE WEST

410-213-1500

Route 611, West OC Sat., Sept. 28: DJ Hook

HARBORSIDE

410-213-1846

South Harbor Rd., West End O.C.

Fri., Sept. 27: DJ Billy T Sat., Sept. 28: TBA & DJ Bigler Sun., Sept. 29: Pickin’ Party

Thursdays: Dust N Bones

PICKLES PUB

410-289-4891

8th St. & Philadelphia Ave.

Fridays: Beats By DeoGee

Saturday, Sept. 28: Over The Bridge & Higher Education

Sunday, Sept. 28: Beats By Styler & Rockstead

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., Sept. 27: P-Funk North Sat., Sept. 28: LNJ Sessions

SEACRETS

410-524-4900

49th St. & Coastal Hwy. Fri., Sept. 27: John McNutt Band, DJ Davie, DJ Connair, Lights Out By 8, DJ C-Miller, DJ Bobby O & The Way Outs

Sat., Sept. 28: DJ E-State, DJ Cruz, DJ C-Miller, South Penn Dixie, 7 Deadlies & Screaming Monkeys Thurs., Oct. 3:

Opposite Directions, DJ Connair & Triple Rail Turn

THE WEDGE 410-289-5121

Saturday, September 28

806 S. Atlantic Ave. Sun., Sept. 29: TBA

KEVIN POOLE & JOE MAMA Coconuts Beach Bar: Thursday, October 3

AARON HOWELL DUO

Blu Crabhouse: Friday, September 27

Pub:

THE WAYOUTS

Seacrets: Friday, September 27

Pub: Friday, September 27 Seacrets: Thursday, October 3

JACK & T

Dry Dock 28: Friday, September 27

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. Breakfast on weekends, 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 Monday through Wednesday at 4 p.m. and Thursday through Sunday at 11:30 a.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. Open Thursday through Sunday, 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 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.

UPTOWN 91st to 146th streets

■ ALBERTINO'S BRICK OVEN & EATERY

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

$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar

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

■ CAROUSEL OCEANFRONT HOTEL & CONDOS

118th Street, Ocean City 800-641-0011, www.carouselhotel.com

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. Open: Monday through Sunday, 8 a.m. to 6 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 8 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.; and Sunday, 11 a.m. to 8 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.

‘The start of surfing season’ cheered annually by locals

By Dave Dalkiewicz Contributing Writer

(Sept. 20, 2024) The passage of Labor Day is a significant time in our area, as I’m sure it is in other parts of the country. At this point we’re a few weeks past it but it has both official and unofficial aspects. It’s a federal holiday with U.S. government offices and most state offices closed along with banks and the like though many workers are still expected to show up as they would on any other Monday.

This year, Labor Day fell on Sept. 2 with students returning to school the next day. In a resort economy, such as we have, it’s another workday and hopefully a prosperous one for business owners and tipped employees. Labor Day falls on the first Monday of September every year regardless of the date. Its history dates back to the late 1800s when many states in our country had already enacted a “Labor Day” due to the efforts of labor activists. For those not having to work it can be a three-day weekend and a time for friends and family to get together and celebrate. Some communities will even have parades and other civic activities.

For the surfer, it’s a time of lessening restrictions with more chance for beaches to be “modified” with surfing being allowed. This will generally be done on weekdays, depending on weather and water conditions, and the number of people on the beach and/or in the water. September will frequently become more active with statistics showing historically more ocean activity and the possibility of good surf.

People living in the area, as well as visitors, will think of Labor Day as the end of the summer season and the start of what has come to be known as a shoulder season. Meteorologists like to think of September as the first month of fall or autumn, though astronomically the fall or autumn season began on Sept. 22.

Even the weather seems to know it’s Labor Day with the atmosphere becoming more comfortable with temperatures falling off to more reasonable levels and especially the humidity following right along. Some surfers will even regard September as “the start of surfing season.”

So whether you’re back to school, getting a needed break from work, surfer or not, the autumn season of change will hopefully be a good one.

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

CROSSWORD

HOMECOMING

Worcester Prep’s Upper School dedicated the second week of September to celebrating Homecoming. Festivities kicked off Sept. 16, with an activity-packed Spirit Week. The celebration culminated with an alumni/family cookout and home games for varsity volleyball and boys’ and girls’ soccer on Sept. 20, followed by the homecoming dance on Sept. 21.

Head of School Dr. John McDonald and WPS parent Patrick Montague are pictured manning the grill, from which they served hundreds of hamburgers and hot dogs to the crowd at the cookout.

The WPS Class of 2028 sponsored the kids’ activities during the homecoming barbecue. Pictured are Freshmen Rani Yonker and Wesley Wisniewski, who helped run the face painting station.

WPS Athletic Director and Assistant Head of School Mike Grosso is pictured chauffeuring Mallard mascot Jake Timmons between the three concurrent varsity matches to help spread school spirit.

ARIES – Mar 21/Apr 20

Aries, a difficult problem may require you to take a step back and think about a different approach. Start fresh in a few days.

TAURUS – Apr 21/May 21

A happy accident reconnects you with someone you haven’t seen in quite a while, Taurus. The rekindled relationship may lead to something even more concrete over the coming weeks.

GEMINI – May 22/Jun 21

Gemini, there is so much going on right now you may feel like your head is spinning. Start dividing your tasks into a more manageable list and see if others can pitch in.

CANCER – Jun 22/Jul 22

Cancer, take a few days to mull over a financial situation that worries you. Is there another way you can approach it? Can you find an influx of capital to make things more manageable?

LEO – Jul 23/Aug 23

It is time to make a decision after working through various scenarios, Leo. Plans need to be made and it will take time to sort through all of the details. Everything will work out.

VIRGO – Aug 24/Sept 22

It’s time to be honest with yourself, Virgo. Are you just telling people what they want to hear or are you truly ready to make a change? You may need to prove it to others for them to trust you.

LIBRA – Sept 23/Oct 23

Libra, share enjoyable experiences with others. Your travels may prove a source of inspiration for others who simply need a nudge to get out of their comfort zones.

SCORPIO – Oct 24/Nov 22

Carefully word your next email or text and read it over several times, Scorpio. There is a fine line between being firm and coming across as domineering. You don’t want to offend.

SAGITTARIUS – Nov 23/Dec 21

Sagittarius, a relationship may have ended in one respect, but the connections you share may keep you tied together for some time. Find a way to be friendly and civil at all times.

CAPRICORN – Dec 22/Jan 20

Put others first this week, Capricorn. Set aside your own list of tasks and figure out how you can lend a helping hand to a family member or friend.

AQUARIUS – Jan 21/Feb 18

Sometimes you need reassurance that you are doing a good job, Aquarius. Rest assured that you are giving it all you have and that has not gone unnoticed.

PISCES – Feb 19/Mar 20

Pictured, from left, are this year’s Paint Worcester County award winners and presenters, Gerilyn

Plein air contest winners named

(Sept. 27, 2024) Local and regional plein air artists from four different states painted their hearts out from Sept. 1520 and competed for cash prizes in the Paint Worcester County plein air event sponsored by Worcester County Arts Council.

The event, presented in partnership with the Worcester County Library Foundation, culminated last Friday, Sept. 20, at the Berlin Library branch with an open to public art sale and exhibit showcasing pieces created during the week. Completed artwork was judged by award-winning plein air artist Jim Rehak. The competition awarded $2,650 in cash prizes.

The winners were:

First Place: “High Tide” by

Rhonda Ford, of Easton Second Place: “Harvest Sun” by Ed Lewandowski, of Bridgeville, Delaware

Third Place: “Last Light” by Homer Proctor, of Seaford, Delwaare Honorable Mention: “Welcome Home” by Lori Yates, of Easton Maryland Legislators’ Choice: “North Eastern” by Gerilyn Gaskill, of Georgetown, Delaware Worcester County Commissioners’ Choice: “Rain, Fog Again” by Nancy Fine, of Hampstead Library Foundation Choice: “Windmill Creek Winery” by Judith Loeber, of Millsboro, Delaware Berlin Mayor’s Choice: “Sam & Sam Get Married” by Taylor Collins,

of Dover, Delaware

Horizon Farm Choice and Artists’ Choice: “Harvest Sun” by Ed Lewandowski, of Bridgeville, Delaware

WCAC Board of Directors Choice: “Squirrel!!” by Matthew Amey, of Berlin

The selection of paintings created during the event will be on public display at the Worcester County Library, Berlin branch until Oct. 22. All artwork is available for sale.

For more information on exhibited artwork, or to make a purchase, contact the Worcester County Arts Council at 410-641-0809, or curator@worcestercountyartscouncil.org

Pisces, it is time to make a decision about an issue with two seemingly good solutions. You’ve given things ample consideration, so trust your instincts.

Gaskill, N. Taylor Collins, Judith Loeber, Rhonda Ford, Nancy Fine, Lori Yates, Ed Lewandowski, Berlin Mayor Zack Tyndall, judge Jim Rehak, Mathew Ames, Sen. Mary Beth Carozza, Homer Proctor, Library Foundation President Carol Rose, and WCAC Executive Director Anna Mullis.

PHOTO COURTESY WORCESTER COUNTY ARTS COUNCIL

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., Sept. 27

OCEANS CALLING FESTIVAL

Downtown Ocean City. Tickets are sold out. Traffic, transportation and parking information: https://www.oceancity.com/transportation-and-parking-information-foroceans-calling-festival-2024/.

MAHJONG CLUB

Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 10:30 a.m. Join in for a fun morning of playing tile Mahjong. Feel free to bring our own tile set. 410-524-1818, www.worcesterlibrary.org

SEPTEMBER HOMESCHOOL CREATIVE WRITING

Worcester County Library - Snow Hill Branch, 307 N. Washington St., 11 a.m. A creative writing program that will help students with their vocabulary, imaginative thinking, literary. knowledge and social enrichment. For ages 8 years and older. 410-632-3495

SURVIVAL SPANISH: MONTHS AND SEASONS

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 1 p.m. Join in to learn about the Spanish vocabulary for special times of the year. 410-2084014, www.worcesterlibrary.org

HOMESCHOOL CAFÉ

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 1:30 p.m. Come see what’s brewing at the library and join in some STEAM activities. For ages 6-11 years. 410-208-4014, www.worcesterlibrary.org

KIGHTS OF COLUMBUS BINGO

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

Sat., Sept. 28

FURNACE TOWN RENAISSANCE FAIRE Furnace Town Historic Site (Nassawango Iron Furnace), 3816 Old Furnace Road, Snow Hill, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Jesters, mead, feasting, music, magic, mirth, merriment, dazzling costumes, merchants and treasures. Cost is $15 for adults, $10 for those 5-14 years. www.furnacetown.org/event

OCEANS CALLING FESTIVAL

Downtown Ocean City. Tickets are sold out. Traffic, transportation and parking information: https://www.oceancity.com/transportation-and-parking-information-foroceans-calling-festival-2024/.

ALL-YOU-CAN-EAT BREAKFAST BUFFET

Whaleysville United Methodist, 11716 Sheppards Crossing Road, Whaleyville, 7-10 a.m. Menu includes pancakes, bacon, sausage, scrapple, scramble eggs, chipped beef, hash brown potatoes, toast, fruit and assorted beverages. Cost is $10 for adults and $5 for children.

BOOK SIGNING FOR DR. CLARA SMALL

New Bethel United Methodist Church, 10203 Germantown Road, Berlin, 10 a.m.-noon. Book signing for Dr. Clara Small’s newly release book, “Compass Points Volume 4.” The book highlights the contributions of African Americans to Eastern Shore life. 410-641-0638

FARMERS & ARTISANS MARKET

Saturdays - White Horse Park, 239 Ocean Parkway, 9 a.m. to noon. Shop for everything from fresh local produce to unique handmade artisan goods. Open to the public.

Sun., Sept. 29

OCEANS CALLING FESTIVAL

Downtown Ocean City. Tickets are sold out. Traffic, transportation and parking information: https://www.oceancity.com/transportation-and-parking-information-foroceans-calling-festival-2024/.

FURNACE TOWN RENAISSANCE FAIRE

Furnace Town Historic Site (Nassawango Iron Furnace), 3816 Old Furnace Road, Snow Hill, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Jesters, mead, feasting, music, magic, mirth, merriment, dazzling costumes, merchants and treasures. Cost is $15 for adults, $10 for those 5-14 years. www.furnacetown.org/event

5TH SUNDAY SERVICE

St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, 3 Church St., Berlin. The church will have one service at 9:30 a.m., followed by a pot luck brunch. Bring your favorite brunch item.

BOWLING FUNDRAISER

Eastern Shore Lanes, 1834 Market St., Pocomoke City, 2-4 p.m. A portion of the proceeds will be shared with Village

Neighbors during this 2-hour fundraiser event. $10 per person/hour. 410-9570775

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. 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

THE ART OF BERLIN

Sundays through October - The Berlin Welcome Center Lot, 14 S. Main St., 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. The Merry Haven presents A Local Makers Market.

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., Sept. 30

STORY TIME: DOWN ON THE FARM

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

BINGO

The Chincoteague Center, 6155 Community Drive, 1-3 p.m. The Island Community House, in partnership with Village Neighbors, welcome all to play bingo for some amazing prices. Play is $5 per card. Cash only. 757-336-1993

YOGA CLASS FOR VETERANS AND THEIR FRIENDS AND FAMILY

Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 4:30-5:30 p.m. Specializing in working with those in the Military and First Responder Communities. Free event. Vance Row, YR Yoga Rescue, www.yoga-rescue.com, yogarescueinfo@gmail.com

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

Atlantic General Hospital, Conference Room 1, 9733 Healthway Drive, Berlin, 5-6:30 p.m. Take Off Pounds Sensibly is a weekly support and educational group promoting weight loss and living a healthy lifestyle. Rose Campion, 410641-0157

THE ART OF TISSUE PAPER FLOWERS

Worcester County Library - Snow Hill Branch, 307 N. Washington St., 5:30 p.m. Learn to make festive flowers that are part of Mexican paper art traditions. Registration required. 410-632-3495, www.worcesterlibrary.org

BRIDGE

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

DELMARVA WOMEN’S A CAPELLA CHORUS

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

OVEREATER’S ANONYMOUS

Mondays - Worcester County LibraryOcean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 7-8 p.m. No dues or fees. 410459-9100

Tues., Oct. 1

POP-UP FARMERS MARKET

Flower St. field across from Henry Park, 125 Flower St., Berlin, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Farmers Market Nutrition Program (FMNP - WIC & seniors) checks and WIC Fruit & Vegetable checks welcome here.

STORY TIME: FARM ANIMALS

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

STORY TIME: ‘AUTUMN’

Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 10:30 a.m. Stories, songs and fingerplays. For ages 0-5 years. 410-641-0650, www.worcesterlibrary.org

BABY TIME

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

OC KNITTING GROUP

Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 10:30 a.m. Do you love to knit or crochet? Bring whatever project you happen to be working on. 410-524-1818, www.worcesterlibrary.org

MASTER GARDENERS PLANT CLINIC

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 11 a.m. Master Gardener Ginny Rosenkranz talks about all things plants. Bring ques-

Continued on Page 60

CALENDAR

tions and feel free to show your plants as well. 410-208-4014, www.worcesterlibrary.org

CHAIR YOGA

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

Certified yoga instructor, Therese O’Boyle, teaches this class that stretches and strengthens in a gentle manner. Registration required: 410-524-1818. www.worcesterlibrary.org

ANIME CLUB

Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 4 p.m.

Monthly themes will include trivia, games, Japanese snacks and art exploration. For ages 13-16 years. 410-5241818, www.worcesterlibrary.org

PREHISTORIC PASTIMES: DINOSAUR STEAM

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 4:30 p.m. Forge fossils, build a bone body and more. For ages 6-11 years. 410-2084014, www.worcesterlibrary.org

MUSICAL JOURNEY WITH MATTHEW

Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 6:30 p.m.

Take an excursion through well-known musical works of Central and South America and witness how such music melted into the jambalaya of the Southeastern United States. All ages. 410-6410650

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., Oct. 2

EASTERN SHORE SEWISTS

Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 10 a.m. Promoting the needle arts through sewing education, activities and textile crafts. For artisans of all skill levels. 410-6410650, www.worcesterlibrary.org

MUSIC AND MOVEMENT

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

FREE COMMUNITY FLU CLINIC

Stevenson United Methodist Church, 123 N. Main St., Berlin, 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Providing flu vaccinations for those ages 13 years and older. No appointment required. High-dose vaccines available and billed to Medicare or insurance for those 65 years and older. www.agh.care/flu

PUZZLE SWAP

Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 1-5 p.m. Bring gently used puzzles (in original boxes) and leave with a new-to-you puzzle. Don’t have a puzzle but still want one? That’s OK too. 410-641-0650, www.worcesterlibrary.org

EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS: A ONE

MARYLAND ONE BOOK EVENT

Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 2 p.m. Talk about how to be ready in an emergency situation. One lucky winner will receive a survival pack. 410-632-3495, www.worcesterlibrary.org

BUG-OUT BAG ESSENTIALS

Worcester County Library - Pocomoke Branch, 301 Market St., 4 p.m. What supplies are needed in a 72-hour emergency supply backpack. Make your own first aid kit. Sample some survival food packets. For ages 12-18 years. Registration necessary: 410-957-0878.

QIGONG AND TAI CHI FORMS

Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 5:30 p.m. Safe, slow moves to improve balance and dexterity. Start creating a healing environment for health conditions. Great for beginners. A six-week course. 410-641-0650, www.worcesterlibrary.org

KIWANIS CLUB MEETING Wednesdays - Ocean Pines Community

Center, 239 Ocean Parkway, 8 a.m. Doors open at 7:30 a.m. Third Wednesday meetings are offsite and information can be found on the website and Facebook. www.kiwanisofopoc.org.

Thurs., Oct. 3

FREE COMMUNITY FLU CLINIC

Pocomoke City Volunteer Fire Company, 1410 Market St., 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Providing flu vaccinations for those ages 13 years and older. No appointment required. High-dose vaccines available and billed to Medicare or insurance for those 65 years and older. www.agh.care/flu

STORY TIME: GOLDILOCKS AND THE THREE DINOSAURS

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

STORY TIME ‘BABY BEAR COUNTS ONE’

Worcester County Library - Snow Hill Branch, 307 N. Washington St., 10:30 a.m. Stories, songs and rhymes. For ages 2-5 years. 410-632-3495, www.worcesterlibrary.org

CHESS CLUB

Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 10:30 a.m. Looking for a quiet place to meet new friends and play some chess? Bring your boards. 410-524-1818, www.worcesterlibrary.org

DYLAN, CASH AND YOUNG: JERRY LEE ADKINS IN CONCERT

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 2 p.m. Adkins to perform classics made famous by Bob Dylan, Johnny Cash and Neil Young — three rebels who redefined modern music. 410-208-4014, www.worcesterlibrary.org

ONE MARYLAND ONE BOOK DISCUSSION: ‘WHAT STORM, WHAT THUNDER’

Worcester County Library - Pocomoke Branch, 301 Market St., 2 p.m. Join in for this community read. Books are available at the library’s circulation desk. 410-957-0878, www.worcesterlibrary.org

MAGIC THE GATHERING

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 3:30 p.m. Battle it out with sorcery, dragons and giants. Experienced and novice players welcome. BYOC recommended. For ages 12-18 years. 410-208-4014, www.worcesterlibrary.org

PILATES, BARRE, TONING

Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 4:30 p.m. Focus on strength, flexibility, breathing and full body alignment. Both are low impact. Done while standing, sitting or holding on to a chair. 410-641-0650, www.worcesterlibrary.org

BEACH SINGLE 55 PLUS MEET AND GREET Thursdays - Harpoon Hanna’s, Fen wick Island, DE, 4-6 p.m. 215-385-4993, BeachSingles.org

ONGOING EVENTS

BERLIN PUMPKIN SCAVENGER HUNT

Find all of the painted pumpkins for your chance to win $100. Pick up and return your entry form at the Berlin Welcome Center foyer. Open 24/7. Contest runs Oct. 1-30.

PRE-HOLIDAY SHOWING

Ocean Pines library, 11107 Cathell Road, Oct. 1-Dec. 31. A pre-holiday showing of original art work. 410-208-4014

OCTOBER INSPIRATION CHALLENGE

Snow Hill library, 307 N. Washington St., Art, photography or poetry competition for all ages. The theme for October is “Sticks and Stones.” Due by Oct. 23. 410-632-3495

BANNED BOOKS WEEK ACTIVITIES

Ocean City library, 10003 Coastal Highway, Sept. 23-28. Celebrate your freedom to read with several activities about banned and challenged books. For ages 6-11 years and 12-18 years. 410-5241818, www.worcesterlibrary.org

FALL-TASTIC SCAVENGER HUNT

Berlin library, 13 Harrison Ave., Berlin, Sept. 23-30. Get outside and explore the library’s backyard this fall. Complete the hunt to win a prize. For ages 0-5 years and 6-11 years. 610-641-0650, www.worcesterlibrary.org

BOOK CHARACTER SCAVENGER HUNT

Ocean City library, 10003 Coastal Highway, Sept. 16-27, all day. Stop by to grab a scavenger hunt sheet and search the Kids and YA area’s for book characters. Finish the hunt to reveal a secret message. For ages 0-5 years and 6-11 years. 410-524-1818

FIND A SUMMER STAR IN BERLIN

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

Crossword answers from page 56

SEPTEMBER 27, 2024 OC Today-Dispatch 61

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 co. 30 yrs. serving Delmarva. 410-641-4411

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

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

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.

A-1 Sanitation Service is a family owned and operated business that has been servicing the tri-state area for over 55 years. We are looking to hire a long-term, full-time Portable Toilet Technician (NON CDL). Job duties will include cleaning portable toilets on a route from our Frankford location. Must have clean driving record, valid DOT medical card, and provide exceptional customer service to our clients. Good pay with experience, paid weekly. Benefits include health insurance, paid. holidays, paid vacation and sick time, and a retirement savings plan. Please email your resume to info@a1sanitation.com Pay: $19-$21/hour to start

Servers, Maintenance Manager, Line Cooks, Painters, Maintenance Staff, Plumber, Security, Carpenters and more. Apply in person or online at seacrets.com

Well-appointed Bay Front Home for rent in West Ocean City. 3900 sq. ft. featuring 4BR, 2.5BA, and in-ground pool with newly renovated pool house. $4,250/month. Call Moses: 410-449-1434.

DOWNTOWN OC, YR RENTAL

Bayside Townhouse on water. 3BR, 2.5BA, boat slip. $1,900 per mo. 410-390-1752

House For Yearly Rent. 4BR, 3.5BA, Garage, West OC. No smoking/pets. $2750/mo. + electric. Available November 1. Call 410-213-1633.

WINTER RENTAL

Nice 2BR, 2BA, on the water in Ocean City, MD. $1,450 per mo. + utils. Call Karen, 443-880-5727.

WINTER SEASONAL RENTAL (4 months) 2 BEDROOM $1,500 per mo. Utils. incl. (elec./cable/internet) No smoking/No pets Bayshore Estates, Plover Drive 410-524-0295

WEEKLY RENTALS

$300-$500 per week. October-May. 301-331-2209

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

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

New Construction Rentals Available in WOC. Year round / winter rental / furnished / unfurnished. No smoking/pets. Call 410-213-1633 for information.

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

RENTALS

OCEANS CALLING 9/27-9/29

COUNTRY CALLING 10/4-10/6

OC RENTAL, 127TH ST.

$300/night, Sleeps 6. 267-254-0111

YEAR ROUND IN WEST OC 2BD/1BA Cottage, unfurnished, central HVAC & W/D. Occp. lmtd. to 2. No smoking/pets. Ref. & credit ck. req. $1,200/mo. + utils. 410-202-6353

MISC. FOR SALE

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

Get DISH Satellite TV + Internet! Free Install, Free HDDVR Upgrade, 80,000 OnDemand Movies, Plus Limited Time Up To $600 In Gift Cards. Call Today! 1-855-4076870

FOR SALE

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

VEHICLES WANTED

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

for 350 plus procedures. Real dental insurance - NOT just a discount plan. Do not wait! Call now! Get your FREE Dental Information Kit with all the details! 1-855-337-5228 www.dental50plus.com/ MDDC #6258 Advertise in

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 Space Yard and Storage Shed. Approx. 10x25+/Route 90/Bishopville. Call 443-497-4200.

2 Office/Retail Spaces available in West Ocean City. Approximately 1656 sq. ft. and 1728 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.

The contents of mini storage units will be sold online at Lockerfox.com. Ocean City Mini Storage. Units to be auctioned; S102-S311-S635-L3-L12O25-O40-O145-O151O175-B28-B69-B57. Units are being sold due to nonpayment of rent. Common items in units are household items, furniture, tools, fishing equipment, paintings, antique and vintage items.

Date: Friday, September 27th, 2024 Time: 10:00 am This will be an online auction. Please go to Lockerfox.com and register. Feel free to call 410-2132029 for any questions regarding the online auction.

JAMES W. ALMAND, ESQ

AYRES, JENKINS, GORDY & ALMAND, PA

6200 COASTAL HWY., SUITE 200 OCEAN CITY, MD 21842

TRUSTEE’S SALE OF CONDOMINIUM UNIT

In accordance with the order in Case no. C-23-CV-24-000102 in the Circuit Court for Worcester County, the Trustee named below will sell at public auction to the highest bidder on Monday, September 30, 2024, at 4:00 p.m., at the front door of Borderlinks I Condominium Unit No. Bn/40, 438 Ocean Parkway, Ocean Pines, MD, all that property designated as Borderlinks I Condominium Unit No. Bn/40, together with an undivided percentage interest in the common elements, as established by Declaration and Bylaws recorded among the land records of Worcester County in Liber No. 380, folio 369, et seq., as amended, and as further described in a deed recorded at Book: 7865, Page: 463, et seq., in “AS IS” condition, SUBJECT to all the liens, covenants, agreements, conditions, easements and restrictions as may appear among the land records of Worcester County, Maryland.

A deposit of $25,000.00 in cash or certified check will be required of the Purchaser at the auction. (A deposit will not be required if the successful bidder is the Plaintiff/secured party in this foreclosure action.) The balance in cash or cashier’s or certified check shall be paid within 20 days of final ratification of the sale by the Circuit Court for Worcester County, said balance to bear interest at the rate of ten percent (10%) per annum from the date of sale to the date of payment. Time is of the essence for the Purchaser. All real estate taxes, wastewater and water charges, condominium assessments and Ocean Pines Association assessments shall be adjusted as of the date of sale and assumed thereafter by the Purchaser. All settlement costs, including recordation and transfer taxes and recording fees, shall be paid by the Purchaser. Possession will be given upon payment in full of the purchase price. If Purchaser fails to pay the balance of the purchase price when due, the deposit shall be forfeited and the property resold at the risk and cost of the defaulting Purchaser.

For further information, you may contact Spencer Ayres Cropper, Trustee, 410-723-1400.

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REGAN J. R. SMITH ESQ WILLIAMS,

MOORE, SHOCKLEY & HARRISON LLP

3509 COASTAL HIGHWAY

OCEAN CITY, MD 21842

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 20340

TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF EMILIO VASCO CALCARA Notice is given that Maria Venina

Marques Figueiredo, 9005 Mediterranean Dr., Ocean City, MD 218425043, was on September 05, 2024 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Emilio Vasco Calcara who died on July 19, 2024, with a will.

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

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

Maria Venina Marques Figueiredo 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: September 12, 2024

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NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 20325 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF F. RICHARD PATSCHORKE

AKA: FRITZ R. PATSCHORKE

Notice is given that Michael Paul Patschorke, 965 Kiefer Trails Dr., Ballwin, MO 63021-6078, was on August 30, 2024 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of F. Richard Patschorke who died on July 24, 2024, with a will.

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

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

Michael Paul Patschorke

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: September 12, 2024

OCD-9/12/3t _________________________________

Terrapin Certificates, LLC c/o James F. Truitt, Jr. 20 East Timonium Road, Suite 100 Timonium, Maryland 21093 Plaintiff v. Anthony M. Soletto, Jr. Pamela E. Rubio-Soletto Nancy J. Rubio 9 127TH ST., UNIT 203 and Worcester County, Maryland (for Maryland Annotated Code 14-1836(b)(1)(V) purposes only) and

Any and all person having or claiming to have any interest in the fee simple in the properties and premises situate, lying and being in the County of Worcester described on the Tax Rolls Worcester County Collector of State and County Taxes for said County known as: 9 127th St., Unit 203, Ocean City, MD 21842, 10th (Tenth) Election District, described as follows: All that lot of land and imps described as Starfish V Condominium, Unit 203. IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR WORCESTER COUNTY IN EQUITY

Case Number: C-23-CV-24-000180

ORDER OF

PUBLICATION

The object of this proceeding is to secure the foreclosure of all rights of redemption in the following property 9 127th St., Unit 203, Ocean City, MD 21842 in the County of Worcester, sold by the Collector of Taxes for the County of Worcester and the State of Maryland to the Plaintiff in this proceeding:

All that lot of land and imps described as Starfish V Condominium, Unit 203.

The complaint states, among

other things, that the amounts necessary for redemption have not been paid.

It is thereupon this 9th of September, 2024 by the Circuit Court for Worcester County, Ordered, That notice be given by the insertion of a copy of this order in some newspaper having general circulation in Worcester County once a week for three (3) successive weeks, warning all persons interested in the property to appear in this Court by the 8th day of November, 2024, and redeem the property 9 127th St., Unit 203, Ocean City, MD 21842 and answer the complaint or thereafter a final judgment will be entered foreclosing all rights of redemption in the property, and vesting in the Plaintiffs title, free and clear of all encumbrances.

Brian D. Shockley JUDGE

True Copy Test: Susan R. Braniecki Clerk of the Circuit Court Worcester County MD

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Terrapin Certificates, LLC c/o James F. Truitt, Jr. 20 East Timonium Road, Suite 100 Timonium, Maryland 21093 Plaintiff v.

Lia Lujan

Melanie Cummings, Trustee First Alliance Bank, FSB Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc.

Wells Fargo Home Mortgage n/k/a Wells Fargo Bank, NA, Servicer 722 MOORING RD., UNIT A305 and Worcester County, Maryland (for Maryland Annotated Code 14-1836(b)(1)(v) purposes only) and

Any and all person having or claiming to have any interest in the fee simple in the properties and premises situate, lying and being in the County of Worcester described on the Tax Rolls Worcester County Collector of State and County Taxes for said County known as: 722 Mooring Rd., Unit A305, Ocean City, MD 21842, 10th (Tenth) Election District, described as follows:

All that lot of land and imps described as The Chateau Condominium, Unit A-305. IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR WORCESTER COUNTY IN EQUITY Case Number: C-23-CV-24-000171

ORDER OF PUBLICATION

The object of this proceeding is to secure the foreclosure of all rights of redemption in the following property 722 Mooring Rd., Unit A305, Ocean City, MD 21842 in the County of Worcester, sold by the Collector of Taxes for the County of Worcester and the State of Maryland to the Plaintiff in this proceeding:

All that lot of land and imps described as The Chateau Condominium, Unit A-305.

The complaint states, among other things, that the amounts necessary for redemption have not been

paid.

It is thereupon this 9th of September, 2024 by the Circuit Court for Worcester County, Ordered, That notice be given by the insertion of a copy of this order in some newspaper having general circulation in Worcester County once a week for three (3) successive weeks, warning all persons interested in the property to appear in this Court by the 8th day of November, 2024, and redeem the property 722 Mooring Rd., Unit A305, Ocean City, MD 21842 and answer the complaint or thereafter a final judgment will be entered foreclosing all rights of redemption in the property, and vesting in the Plaintiffs title, free and clear of all encumbrances.

Brian D. Shockley JUDGE

True Copy

Test: Susan R. Braniecki

Clerk of the Circuit Court Worcester County MD OCD-9/12/3t

D. NICOLE GREEN, PA

D. NICOLE GREEN ESQ.

300 EAST MAIN STREET SALISBURY, MD 21801

NOTICE

TO CREDITORS OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE ESTATE NO. 20344

NOTICE IS GIVEN that the Chancery court of Sussex County, Delaware appointed Kenneth R. Kordek, 913 E. Grove St., Delmar, DE 19940-1309 as the Personal Representative of the Estate of Arlene Joan Conway who died on March 22, 2024 domiciled in Delaware, America.

The Maryland resident agent for service of process is D. Nicole Green whose address is 300 E. Main St., Salisbury, MD 21801-4925.

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.

Kenneth R. Kordek

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: September 12, 2024

OCD-9/12/3t

REGAN J. R. SMITH ESQ WILLIAM, MOORE, SHOCKLEY & HARRISON LLP 3509 COASTAL HIGHWAY OCEAN CITY, MD 21842

NOTICE

OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

Estate No. 20050 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF JOSEPH A. KUHL

Notice is given that Joan P. Terciak, 418 Erie St., Holbrook. NY 11741-2927, was on January 19, 2024 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Joseph A. Kuhl who died on January 16, 2024, with a will.

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

All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent’s will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 19th day of July, 2024.

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

Joan P. Terciak 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: September 12, 2024 OCD-9/12/3t

Terrapin Certificates, LLC c/o James F. Truitt, Jr. 20 East Timonium Road, Suite 100 Timonium, Maryland 21093

Plaintiff v.

Bernard H. White, III

Loretta M. White

4000 COASTAL HWY., UNIT 317 and Worcester County, Maryland (for Maryland Annotated Code 14-1836(b)(1)(v) purposes only) and

Any and all person having or claiming to have any interest in the fee simple in the properties and premises situate, lying and being in the County of Worcester described on the Tax Rolls Worcester County Collector of State and County Taxes for said County known as: 4000 Coastal Hwy., Unit 317, Ocean City, MD 21842, 10th (Tenth) Election District, described as follows: All that lot of land and imps described as Ocean Point No. 2 Condominium, Unit 317 IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR WORCESTER COUNTY IN EQUITY

Case Number: C-23-CV-24-000172

ORDER OF

PUBLICATION

The object of this proceeding is to secure the foreclosure of all rights of redemption in the following property 4000 Coastal Hwy., Unit 317, Ocean City, MD 21842 in the County of Worcester, sold by the Collector of Taxes for the County of Worcester and the State of Maryland to the Plaintiff in this proceeding:

All that lot of land and imps described as Ocean Point No, 2 Condominium, Unit 317

The complaint states, among other things, that the amounts necessary for redemption have not been paid.

It is thereupon this 9th of September, 2024, by the Circuit Court for Worcester County, Ordered, That notice be given by the insertion of a copy of this order in some newspaper having general circulation in Worcester County once a week for three (3) successive weeks, warning all persons interested in the property to appear in this Court by the 8th of November, 2024 and redeem the property 4000 Coastal Hwy., Unit 317, Ocean City, MD 21842 and answer the complaint or thereafter a final judgment will be entered forectosing all rights of redemption in the property, and vesting in the Plaintiffs title, free and clear of all encumbrances.

Brian D. Shockley JUDGE

True Copy Test: Susan R. Braniecki Clerk of the Circuit Court Worcester County MD OCD-9/12/3t

NOTICE OF PASSAGE OF BILL 24-07

Take Notice that Bill 24-07 (Electrical Standards – Permits and Inspections) was passed by Commissioners Bertino, Bunting, Elder, Fiori, Mitrecic, and Purnell on September 3, 2024.

A fair summary of the bill is as follows:

§ BR 2-219(f)(1). (Repeals and reenacts this section to increase the amperes of an electrical installation that is permitted to be completed by a licensed and registered electrician without the requirement for a permit.)

This bill becomes effective fortyfive (45) days from the date of its passage.

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

THE WORCESTER COUNTY COMMISSIONERS

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JOHN F. ROBBERT ESQ. CHESAPEAKE LEAL COUNSEL LLC

29 ATLANTIC AVE., STE. H OCEAN VIEW, DE 19970-9155

NOTICE

OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 20349 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF PATRICIA A. ABEND

Notice is given that Melissa Virtue, 31039 Surfbird Way, Millsboro, DE 19966-7379, was on September 11, 2024 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Patricia A. Abend who died on May 13, 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 11th day of March, 2025.

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

livery 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.

Melissa Virtue

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: September 19, 2024

OCD-9/19/3t

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

Estate No. 20350

TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF JERRI LYNN DICKINSON

Notice is given that Gregory Stepanek, 4 East Wind Dr., Berlin, MD 21811-9627, was on September 11, 2024 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Jerri Lynn Dickinson who died on August 21, 2024, without a will.

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

All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent’s will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 11th day of March, 2025.

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

Gregory Stepanek

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: September 19, 2024

PUBLIC NOTICE

The motor vehicles described below have been abandoned. The owners and lien holders are hereby informed of their right to reclaim the vehicles upon payment of all charges and costs resulting from the towing, preservation, and storage of the vehicles.

The failure of the owners or lien holders to reclaim the vehicles within three weeks of notification shall be deemed a waiver by the owners or lien holders of all rights, title and interest and thereby consent to the sale of the vehicles at public auction or to have it otherwise disposed of in a manner provided by law.

These three weeks of notification begins on (#6) DATE 09/20/2024

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AUTH: Ross Buzzuro Chief of Police

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVES

ESTATE NO. 20345

NOTICE IS GIVEN that the SUPERIOR court of NEW CASTLE, DELAWARE appointed ELIZABETH LOSITO whose address is 302 SOUTHERN RD., WILMINGTON, DE 19804-1026 as the PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE of the Estate of MICHAEL J. HOOD who died on APRIL 01, 2024 domiciled in DELAWARE, USA

The Maryland resident agent for service of process is TRACY COLBURN whose address is 267 THOMAS JEFFERSON TER ELKTON, MD 21921-5167. 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

itor presents the claim within two months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. Claims filed after that date or after a date extended by law will be barred.

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

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PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

Pursuant to the provisions of Chapter 110, Zoning, of the Code of the Town of Ocean City, Maryland, notice is hereby given that a public hearing will be conducted by the Planning and Zoning Commission in the Council Chambers of City Hall located at 301 Baltimore Avenue in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland on:

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 8, 2024

At 6:00 pm

Pursuant to the provisions of Chapter 110, Division 6. Changes

and Amendments, Section 110-143. Procedure for map amendments, of the Code of the Town of Ocean City – an application has been filed to rezone the eastern ½ of Tax Map 111, Parcel 4234, Block 7, specifically Lots 7, 8, 9, 10, 11 and 12, from R-3, General Residential zoning district to LC-1, Local Commercial zoning district. The entire property, described as Tax Map 111, Parcel 4234, Block 7, Lots 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11 and 12, is located between Philadelphia Avenue and Baltimore Avenue and 21st and 22nd Streets, and locally known as Phillips Plaza Shopping Center, master address being 2100 Philadelphia Avenue and associated parking, in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.

APPLICANT: HUGH CROPPER, IV, ESQUIRE, ATTORNEY FOR JAMB, LLC – (FILE #24-14100004)

No oral or written testimony will be accepted after the close of the public hearing.

Public hearings that are not completed at one meeting may be continued without additional advertised notice provided the Commission Chairperson announces that the hearing will be continued and gives persons in attendance an opportunity to sign up for written notice of the additional hearing dates.

For further information concerning this public hearing, please contact the Department of Planning and Community Development, Room

242, City Hall, 301 Baltimore Avenue, Ocean City, MD 21842. Phone 410-289-8855.

PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION

JOSEPH B. WILSON, CHAIRPERSON MAUREEN HOWARTH, ATTORNEY OCD-9/19/3t

COUNCIL OF CO-OWNERS OF BOARDWALK ONE, INC. P.O. Box 762

Ocean City, Maryland 21843 PLAINTIFF, v.

High Hopes, Inc., et al., DEFENDANTS. IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR WORCESTER COUNTY STATE OF MARYLAND CASE NO. C-23-CV-24-000014

NOTICE

By the Circuit Court for Worcester County, Maryland this 11th day of September, 2024, that the foreclosure sale of the properties mentioned in these proceedings, made and reported by Ayrika Fletcher, Trustee, be RATIFIED AND CONFIRMED, unless cause to the contrary thereof be shown on or before the 14th day of October, 2024, provided a copy of this Order be inserted in some weekly newspaper printed in Worcester County, Maryland once in each of three successive weeks, before the 7th day of October, 2024.

The Report of Sale filed in the above case states the amount of the sales to be as indicated below for the referenced time-share interval:

TIMESHARES PURCHASERS: BW1 = Boardwalk One Condominium

True Copy Test: Susan R.

Braniecki

Clerk of the Circuit Court Worcester County MD OCD-9/19/3t

BEFORE THE PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION OF MARYLAND

US WIND, INC’S QUALIFIED OFFSHORE WIND PROJECT’S COMPLIANCE WITH CONDITIONS APPROVED IN 2017

SKIPJACK OFFSHORE ENERGY, LLC AND US WIND, INC.’S OFFSHORE WIND APPLICATIONS UNDER THE CLEAN ENERGY JOBS ACT OF 2019

CASE NOS. 9628 & 9666

NOTICE

OF VIRTUAL HEARING FOR PUBLIC COMMENT

US Wind has filed an application with the Public Service Commission of Maryland requesting authority to revise the schedule, size, pricing, and turbine selection for its offshore wind power project to be located in a federal lease area off the coast of Maryland. Notice is hereby given that a hearing for the purpose of soliciting comments from the public on US Wind’s application will be held on Wednesday, October 16, 2024, at 6:30 p.m. via virtual meeting.

Any person who wishes to speak at the hearing shall send an email to kimberly.schock@maryland.gov by 12:00 noon on Friday, October 11, 2024. Organizations or other entities are strongly encouraged to coordinate and consolidate their comments in a meaningful manner in order to avoid repetitive comments, and they may indicate that they are representing other individuals in their remarks. Participants will generally be asked to speak in the order in which the Commission received the requests.

The virtual hearing will be conducted through a remote meeting platform. People who have requested to speak at the hearing will receive an email with a link to the virtual hearing in order to participate. Anyone wishing to observe the live stream of the public hearing may do so via the Commission’s YouTube channel (https://www.youtube.com/c/MarylandPSC).

first-time are required to complete a one-time registration. All comments must include a reference to “Case No. 9666.” If submitted by first-class mail, comments must be addressed to Andrew S. Johnston, Executive Secretary, Maryland Public Service Commission, William Donald Schaefer Tower, 6 St. Paul Street, 16th Floor, Baltimore, Maryland 21202. OCD-9/19/2t

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARINGS BOARD OF ADJUSTMENTS AND APPEALS

TOWN OF OCEAN CITY, MARYLAND

Pursuant to the provisions of Chapter 2 Administration, Article IV, Division 5 of the Code of the Town of Ocean City, Maryland hereinafter referred to as Code, same being the Board of Adjustments and Appeals Ordinance for Ocean City, Maryland, notice is hereby given that public hearing will be conducted in the Council Chambers of City Hall located at 301 Baltimore Avenue, Ocean City, Maryland.

Wednesday, October 2, 2024 At 3:00 PM

BAAV 24-053 A request has been submitted for a variance from TOC Code Section 38-71 (a)(2) East of the dune setback line, a minimum freeboard elevation of 15.7 feet above mean sea level and (3) to reduce the 3’ freeboard elevation requirement in the AO-1 flood zone for ground level enclosure and mechanical equipment. Locally known as 14400 WIGHT ST UNIT 1- parcel number 8971A-1

Owner: Dale Ewing Applicant: Robert Purcell OCD-9/19/2t

COATES, COATES, & COATES, P.A.

RAYMOND D. COATES JR., ESQ. 6200 COASTAL HIGHWAY, SUITE 300

OCEAN CITY, MD 21842

NOTICE

Worcester County.

(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.

Ty Alan Hoke

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: September 26, 2024

OCD-9/26/3t

NOTICE

OF PUBLIC

HEARING WORCESTER COUNTY BOARD OF ZONING APPEALS AGENDA

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 10, 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. Audio and video recording will take place during this public hearing.

The public is invited to view this meeting live online athttps://worcestercountymd.swagit.co m/live

Susan R. Braniecki

Clerk of the Circuit Court for Worcester County, MD

Any person wishing to comment on this matter shall submit written comments electronically or by firstclass mail by November 1, 2024 Comments submitted electronically must be submitted through the Commission’s Public Comment Dropbox, which can be accessed through the Commission’s website at www.psc.state.md.us. Instructions for logging into the Public Comment Dropbox are located 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/. Commenters using the Public Comment Dropbox for the

TO CREDITORS OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE ESTATE NO. 20354

NOTICE IS GIVEN that the Orphans’ Court of Schuylkill County, Pennsylvania appointed Ty Alan Hoke, 16 Bass Ln., Pine Grove, PA 17963-7921 as the Administrator of the Estate of Ruth E. Hoke who died on January 31, 2021 domiciled in Pennsylvania, 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:

6:30 p.m. Re-advertisement of Case No. 24-60, on the lands of Jeremy Ayars, requesting a variance to the front yard setback from 50 feet from the center of the road right-ofway to 38 feet (to encroach 12 feet) for a proposed single family dwelling in the R-4 General Residential District, pursuant to Zoning Code §§ ZS 1-116(c)(4), ZS 1-208(b)(2) and ZS 1305, located at 11812 Steam Mill Hill Road, Tax Map 13, Parcel 64, Tax District 3, Worcester County, Maryland.

6:35p.m. Case No. 24-62, on the lands of Michael Deem, on the application of Robert Bailey, requesting a variance to the rear yard setback from 30 feet to 18.1 feet (to encroach 11.9 feet) for proposed one story deck in the R-2 Suburban Residential District, pursuant to Zoning Code §§ ZS 1-116(c)(4), ZS 1-206(b)(2) and ZS 1-305, located on Meadow Drive, about 1,432 feet south east of Snug Harbor Road, Tax Map 33, Parcel 346, Lot 24, Tax District 10, Worcester County, Maryland.

6:40 p.m. Case No. 24-61, on the

lands of Eric Davis, requesting a variance to a front yard setback from 50 feet to 25.4 feet (to encroach 24.6 feet) for a replacement dwelling in the R-2 Suburban Residential District, pursuant to Zoning Code §§ ZS 1-116(c)(4), ZS 1-206(b)(2) and ZS 1305, located at 10352 Keyser Point Road, Tax Map 21, Parcel 8, Section A, Block 7, Lot 6, Tax District 10, Worcester County, Maryland.

6:45 p.m. Case No. 24-64, on the lands of Ted Shirilla, requesting a variance to the rear yard setback from 30 feet to 10.2 feet (to encroach 19.8 feet) for a proposed open deck in the R-3 Multi-family Residential District, pursuant to Zoning Code§§ ZS 1-116(c)(4), ZS 1-207(b)(2) and ZS 1-305, located at 116 Pine Forest Drive, Tax Map 21, Parcel 309, Section 17, Lot 8, Tax District 3, Worcester County, Maryland.

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BWW Law Group, LLC 6003 Executive Blvd., Suite 101 Rockville, MD 20852

Carrie M. Ward, et al.

6003 Executive Blvd., Suite 101 Rockville, MD 20852

Substitute Trustees/ Plaintiffs

vs.

LILLIAN H. GREY (DECEASED)

8649 Saddlecreek Drive Berlin, MD 21811

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

Case No. C-23-CV-22-000037

NOTICE

Notice is hereby given this 19th day of September, 2024, by the Circuit Court for Worcester County, Maryland, that the sale of the property mentioned in these proceedings and described as 8649 Saddlecreek Drive, Berlin, MD 21811, made and reported by the Substitute Trustee, will be RATIFIED AND CONFIRMED, unless cause to the contrary thereof be shown on or before the 21st day of October, 2024, provided a copy of this NOTICE be inserted in some daily newspaper printed in said County, once in each of three successive weeks before the 14th day of October, 2024.

The report states the purchase price at the Foreclosure sale to be $390,000.00.

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

Test: Susan R. Braniecki Clerk of the Circuit Court Worcester County MD OCD-9/26/3t

MARIANNA BATIE ESQ

LAW OFFICE OF MARIANNA BATIE

1321 MOUNT HERMON RD STE B SALISBURY, MD 21804-5303

NOTICE

OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

To all persons interested in the estate of WAYNE ALAN HARRISON

Estate No. 20357 Notice is given that CAPRI IRENE HARRISON whose address is 112 AUSTIN CIR BERLIN, MD 21811-1057 was on SEPTEMBER 19, 2024 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of WAYNE ALAN HARRISON who died on AUGUST 07, 2024 with a will.

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

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

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

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

6200 COASTAL HIGHWAY, SUITE 300 OCEAN CITY, MD 21842

NOTICE

OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

To all persons interested in the estate of RICHARD M CERV Estate No. 20361 Notice is given that DAVID ELMER CERV whose address is 300 MULBERRY DR CHRISTIANSBRG, VA 24073-4708 was on SEPTEMBER 20, 2024 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of RICHARD M CERV who died on SEPTEMBER 06, 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 20th day of MARCH, 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

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. 20359 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF PATRICIA TYGIELSKI

Notice is given that John Tygielski, 87 Camelot Cir., Berlin, MD 21811-2028, was on September 19, 2024 appointed personal representative of the small estate of Patricia Tygielski who died on August 12, 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 Tygielski 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: September 26, 2024

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SMALL ESTATE NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE NO. 19502 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF ROBERT WEBER SR.

Notice is given that Kimberly Weber, 105 Royal Elm Road, Front Royal, VA 22630, was on March 07, 2023 appointed personal representative of the small estate of Robert Weber Sr. who died on November 10, 2020, 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.

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

Kimberly Weber 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: September 26, 2024

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SMALL ESTATE NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS To all persons interested in the estate of ROLAND H. GOLDSTRAW Estate No. 13135 Notice is given that DAVID GOLDSTRAW whose ad-

dress is 114

NICHOLS MANOR DR., STEVENSVILLE, MD 216662228 was on NOVEMBER 07, 2008

appointed personal representative(s) of the small estate of ROLAND H. GOLDSTRAW who died on AUGUST 11, 2008 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.

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

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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NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARINGS BOARD OF PORT WARDENS

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

Thursday, October 10, 2024 2:00 p.m

PW 24-056 A request has been submitted to install one boat lift with associated pilings a maximum of 20’ channelward of existing bulkhead. The site of the proposed construction is described as being located at 2816 TERN DR UNIT 4 Parcel # 4717 -4 in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.

OWNER: Kirkshill Ent. LLC, c/o Beth Thompson

APPLICANT: J. Stacey Hart & Assoc.

PW 24-057 A request has been submitted to install one boat lift with associated pilings a maximum 18’ channelward of existing bulkhead. The site of the proposed construction is described as being located at 2804 PLOVER DR UNIT

B Parcel # 4950 -330B - in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.

OWNER: Martin Reinsmith

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

PW 24-058 A request has been submitted to install one boat lift with associated pilings a maximum of 35’ channelward of existing bulkhead. The site of the proposed construction is described as being located at 419 14TH ST UNIT 69 Parcel – Slip 70 # 3486 -69 -2A in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.

OWNER: Paul Schlosser

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

PW 24-059 A request has been submitted to repair with vinyl replacement 18” channelward, ~71 lf of deteriorated timber bulkhead; re construct a 6’ x 33’ dock and install a new 6’ x 12’ pier and install one boat lift with associated pilings a maximum of 20’ channelward of existing bulkhead. The site of the proposed construction is described as being located at 616 N PACIFIC AVE Parcel # 9963 -47 in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.

OWNER: Ronald Springer

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

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SMALL ESTATE

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

To all persons interested in the estate of WILLIAM DAVID DENNIS

Estate No. 20358 Notice is given that CHARLOTTE DYSON DENNIS whose address is 314 S. BAY ST., SNOW HILL, MD 12863 was on SEPTEMBER 19, 2024 appointed personal representative(s) of the small estate of WILLIAM DAVID DENNIS who died on SEPTEMBER 15, 2024 with a will.

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

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

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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Mayor & City Council Ocean City, Maryland

BID SOLICITATION

P01-25 – Restoration and Painting of Boardwalk Arches and Sign Towers

The Mayor & City Council of Ocean City is seeking Proposals from qualified and experienced Vendors to provide for the Restoration and Painting of Boardwalk Arches and Sign Towers and for said work to conform with the Proposal Documents.

BID Documents for the Restoration and Painting of Boardwalk Arches and Sign Towers may be obtained from the Town’s Procurement Department by either e-mailing the Procurement Manager, Matt Perry, at mperry@oceancitymd.gov or Dawn Webb at dwebb@oceancitymd.gov, or by calling (410) 723-6643 during regular business hours, or via the Solicitations tab on the Town’s (https://oceancitymd.gov/oc/procurement-bids/) website. Vendors are responsible for checking this website for Addenda before submitting their BID’s. The Town is not responsible for the content of any Proposal Document received through any thirdparty service. Vendors are responsible for ensuring the completeness and accuracy of their Completed Proposal Documents.

The last day for questions will be on THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 26TH, 2024, AT 3:00PM. Addendum will be posted by close of business on FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 27TH, 2024

Sealed BID Documents are due no later than TUESDAY, OCTOBER 1ST, 2024, BY 3:00 PM. BID submissions will be opened, read aloud, and then remanded back to staff for further review at the PROCUREMENT OFFICE CONFERENCE ROOM, ON WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 2ND, 2024, AT 10:00AM. BID’s are to be submitted to the Procurement Office located at 214 65th Street, Ocean City, MD 21842, and the name of the Solicitation (Restoration and Painting of Boardwalk Arches and Sign Towers) must be noted on the outside of the package.

Late BID Documents will not be accepted.

Minority Vendors are encouraged to compete for the Award of the Solicitation.

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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, October 10, 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 (1) a special parking exception from design standards to allow for 2 garaged parking spaces to be 10’ X 17’, rather than 10’ X 20’ as required by Code; and (2) a special parking exception from design standards to allow for 2 garaged parking space to be provided in a tandem stacked configuration. The site of the appeal is described as Lot 6, Block 11, of the Isle of Wight Land Company, Inc., Plat. It is further described as being located on the southeast corner of Coastal Highway and 44th Street and is locally known as 17 44th Street, in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland APPLICANT: HECTOR MORALES (BZA 2700, #24-09400022) AT 6:10 PM

Pursuant to the provisions of Section 110-93(2), Powers of the Code, an appeal of Sections 110-94(3)(c) and 110-94(3)(b) has been filed to request (1) a special yard exception to allow for a proposed dwelling to be 0.24 feet from the front property line; and (2) a special yard exception to allow for a proposed dwelling to be 0.24 feet from the rear property line. The site of the appeal is described as Lot 7A, Section A, of the Warren’s Park Co-Op Plat. It is further described as being located on the south side of Middle Way Lane and is locally known as 13 Middle Way Lane, in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland APPLICANT: ROBERT H. TARR (BZA 2701, #24-09400023) At 6:20 PM

Pursuant to the provisions of Section 110-93(3), Powers of the Code, an appeal of Section 110-94(1)(a) has been filed to request a variance of 2.86 feet from the 10-foot separation distance requirement for a proposed deck to be 7.14 feet from a neighboring dwelling unit. The site of the appeal is described as Lot 2B, 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 22 Middle Way Lane, in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.

APPLICANT: MARK DREXEL (BZA 2702, #24-09500004)

AT 6:30 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 2 out of 6 required offstreet parking spaces related to the creation of 2 new bedrooms within the existing dwelling to be 9’ X 17.5’ rather than 9’ X 20’ as required by Code. The site of the appeal is described as Lot 23, Parcel 3370, of the Neptune Development Plat. It is further described as being located on the east side of Shad Row and is locally known as 1510 Shad Row, in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland

APPLICANT: KRISTINA WATKOWSKI, ATTY. FOR ROGER TERRY BUSH III (BZA 2703, #24-09400024)

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-9/26/2t

SMALL ESTATE NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN

HEIRS

To all persons interested in the estate of JAMES THOMAS KADY Estate No. 20305 Notice is given that KEVIN KADY whose address is 855 MONARCH LN., HUNTINGTOWN, MD 20639-2912 was on SEPTEMBER 17, 2024 appointed personal representative(s) of the small estate of JAMES THOMAS KADY who died on JUNE 01, 2024 with a will. Further information can be ob-

tained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal representative or the attorney.

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

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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NOTICE TO CREDITORS

OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE

ESTATE NO. 20360

NOTICE IS GIVEN that the Surrogate court of Bergen County, New Jersey appointed Joseph Beringhelli, 33 Charwalt Dr., Hawthorne, NJ 07506-3101 as the Executor of the Estate of Rose Beringhelli who died on February 21, 2024 domiciled in

New Jersey, USA.

The Maryland resident agent for service of process is Robert Pineda whose address is 7845 Belle Point Dr, Greenbelt, MD 20770-3338.

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

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

Joseph Beringhelli

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: September 26, 2024

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NOTICE

OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 20362 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF BRENDA BEATRICE HOLDEN

Notice is given that Linda Collins, 5720 Castle Hill Rd., Snow Hill, MD 21863-4434 and Donell Davis, 107 Gunby St., Snow Hill, MD 218631120, was on September 20, 2024 ap-

pointed Personal Representatives of the estate of Brenda Beatrice Holden who died on September 06, 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 20th day of March, 2025.

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

Linda Collins Donell Davis 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: September 26, 2024

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By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor

(Sept. 27, 2024) The Worcester County Commissioners last week agreed to change a land use designation along Route 589.

The commissioners last Tuesday voted 6-1, with Commission President Chip Bertino opposed, to change the land use designation for 15 parcels along Route 589 from agriculture to commercial center. Development Review and Permitting Director Jennifer Keener said the request received a favorable recommendation from the Worcester County Planning Commission earlier this month.

“On Thursday, September 5, the planning commission held a public hearing as required by law to amend the land use map for the 15 parcels that are on Route 589 across from the casino,” she told the commissioners. “They proposed to change it from agriculture to commercial center. That’s their recommendation. It was unanimous.”

In February, attorney Mark Cropper submitted a request on behalf of his client – Racetrack Plaza LLC – to change the land use designation for property his client had purchased on the west side of Route 589, south of Gum Point Road. While the property’s zoning classifica-

tion is C-2 commercial, the land use map remains agricultural.

In May, the commissioners directed staff to present the request to the planning commission, which provided a favorable recommendation the following month to consider a change in the land use designation. And on Sept. 5, the commission held a public hearing, after which a favorable recommendation was provided.

“You have the option to adopt it today, hold your own public hearing if you wish, modify it, or remand it back to the planning commission,” Keener told commissioners last Tuesday.

With no further discussion, the commission voted 6-1, with Bertino opposed, to adopt the amendment as presented.

“I will not be voting for this, as I did not vote for this the first time or the second time,” Bertino said.

REAL ESTATE MARKETPLACE

The 15 parcels in question are pictured in a land use map, which was amended last week at the request of the property owner.

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Pocomoke City solar energy proposal hearing next week

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(Sept. 27, 2024) Local residents and other interested members of the public are invited to comment on a proposal by Pocomoke City Community Energy Initiative, LLC to construct a 5.0-megawatt solar facility in Worcester County.

The virtual hearing is set for 7 p.m., Oct. 2, before Public Utility Law Judge Jennifer J. Grace.

In May, Pocomoke City CEI applied to the Maryland Public Service Commission for what is known as a Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity (CPCN), which grants an applicant the authority to construct an energy generating station or high-voltage transmission line in Maryland. According to the application, the solar facility, intended as part of Maryland’s community solar program, would be built on nearly 36 acres of a 122-acre property at 610 Ocean Highway in Pocomoke City.

To participate virtually, sign up in advance to speak by sending an email referencing Case No. 9740 to psc.pulj@gmail.com, by noon, Oct. 1. Participants will receive an email with the link to join in on the virtual platform. Otherwise, a recording of the hearing will be available on the

Sept. 26 - Oct. 3

Public Utility Law Judge Division’s YouTube channel (MD PSC PULJs) at bit.ly/2X6wLiP

The hearing will include a presentation by the developer, followed by brief statements from the Power Plant Research Program of the Maryland Department of Natural Resources, the Maryland Office of People’s Counsel, and the Commission’s Technical Staff, and an opportunity for members of the public to comment on the proposed project.

Written comments can also be sent electronically through the Commission’s online portal at psc.state.md.us/make-a-public-comment/, or by mail.

Comments sent by mail should be addressed to: Jamie Bergin, Chief Clerk, Maryland Public Service Commission, William Donald Schaefer Tower, 6 St. Paul Street, 16th Floor, Baltimore, MD 21202 (only one copy is required). So that they are noted in the proper case file, all comments should reference Case No. 9740. Along with the online docket, the application is available for public review at the Worcester County Department of Development Review and Permitting, 1 West Market St., in Snow Hill.

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Real estate stats reveal changes from 2023

By Lauren Bunting Contributing Writer

(Sept. 27, 2024) Maryland Realtors recently released housing statistics for August, showing that housing sales fell 5.9% to 6,169 units, versus 6,559 units sold in 2023; the average sales price rose 4.4% to $499,050; and the median sales price grew 2.4% to $415,800, year over year.

tract) continued their rise, with 6,318, a 6.3% increase from last year. Months of inventory rose to two months, while days on market grew to 10 days this August, from eight days in 2023.

Statewide figures show that as sales fell, units pending (houses under con-

The Worcester County specific-stats do show slightly elevated figures for both months of inventory at 3.6 locally, and for days on market, which is sitting at 28 for Worcester County this year as compared to 10 in 2023.

“Interest rates are coming down— as of September 19, the 30-year fixed rate mortgage dropped to 6.09%, which is great,” Chris Hill, the president of Maryland Realtors, said. “As

the Federal Reserve recently cut interest rates by half a percentage point, we’ll see more buyers enter the market. Also, the increase in days on market could indicate that sellers will be more willing to negotiate on price. We will be watching this dynamic very closely.”

Hill added that following August’s changes in residential real estate stemming from the National Association of Realtors’ (NAR) Settlement in the Burnett v. NAR case, Realtors in Maryland are doubling down on transparency in the transaction.

“We’re most of the way there,” Hill

said. “Maryland law has required written buyer agreements since 2016. When we’re transparent, consumers will have a better understanding of the value REALTORS® bring to a client who is buying or selling a home.”

Hill encouraged consumers to visit MarylandHomeownership.com, which has been recently updated with new content — blogs, toolkits, more — to give buyers and sellers resources to make their next home journey easier, clear and rewarding.

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

Members appointed to Berlin commissions

By Tara Fischer Staff Writer

(Sept. 27, 2024) The Berlin Town Council unanimously passed nominations to boards and commissions as presented by Mayor Zack Tyndall at a meeting Monday.

Jamie Manaia will join the Berlin Horticulture Advisory Committee for a two-year term. The meeting document described Manaia as a “human resource executive with progressive HR experi-

ence who enjoys gardening and feels it is important to keep the town looking beautiful.”

Andrea Weeg, the group’s chair, and members Victoria Spice and Georgianna McElroy, are all returning to the Horticulture Committee for an additional two years.

The Berlin Parks Commission will welcome two new members. According to the mayor’s official nomination forms in the meeting packet, recently appointed

member Corey Davis is the founder and director of Swim Ocean City, a nonprofit organization that “trades as Ocean Games.” The charitable group was kickstarted to raise funds and awareness for traumatic brain injuries.

Michelle Gillespie, who is also joining the Parks Commission, moved to the area from Philadelphia in 2006. She has 30 years of experience in public relations, life sciences, and the pharmaceutical sector, with a specialization in patient advo-

cacy and engagement. She is interested in sustainability and the environment.

The newcomers’ term lengths are yet to be determined, as Tyndall notes that the Berlin Parks Commission offers volunteers to serve one or two years on the group.

“We asked the candidates which one they would like, and if they are both interested in two years, we will draw their names out of a hat to decide,” he said. The council passed the appointments.

Oceans Calling kicks off Friday

Continued from Page 3

several Boardwalk establishments reported strong sales throughout the weekend.

To that end, representatives with the Town of Ocean City and Spectrum Concessions came before the Worcester County Board of License Commissioners this summer to seek a promoter’s license with the same terms, conditions and layout as last year’s event. While some business owners were leery at first of being included in the festival grounds, officials told licensing officials the promoter had exceeded all expectations in 2023.

“It’s essentially a repeat of the event that took place last year,” Mark Cropper, attorney for Spectrum Concessions, told the board. “And it’s obviously inclusive of the Boardwalk and all the businesses that last year supported the event. All those businesses, likewise, are supporting the event this year.”

Throughout this year’s festival weekend, the Boardwalk from 27th Street to North Division Street will be open to the public. However, the Boardwalk south of North Division Street, as well as Boardwalk businesses in that area, will be restricted to festival goers. Festival gates open at noon until 11 p.m. Friday through Sunday.

Boardwalk businesses located within the festival footprint include Jolly Roger at the Pier, Quiet Storm, Thrasher’s French Fries, Dumser’s Dairyland, The Dough Roller, Dolle’s and many more.

Traffic delays, road closures expected

Concertgoers are encouraged to walk, bike or utilize public transportation when traveling to the festival grounds this weekend. Though arrival was smooth for festival attendees due to disparate arriving times, the mass exodus at the end of the night was chaotic last year, especially after the first night. Tweaks were made to try and address the demand but city transportation remained overwhelmed. City Manager Terry McGean noted earlier this month the city learned a lot from the first year and have revised strategies for this year’s festival.

Parking is available at the West Ocean City Park and Ride, the Ocean City convention center parking lot, and the 100th Street municipal parking lot. Public transportation is available on both the Ocean City Beach Bus, which travels north and south along Coastal Highway, and the West Ocean City Shuttle, which travels to and from the Park and Ride.

Throughout the festival, the Beach Bus will offer an express route with a reduced number of stops to get concertgoers to and from their destination in a timely manner. When leaving the festival each evening, concertgoers can walk to Baltimore Avenue, between Worcester and Talbot streets, to catch the Beach Bus for northbound access.

“Their sole mission will be to load downtown, take the people up north,” Transportation Operations Manager George Peake said last week. “They will

PHOTO COURTESY OF CAMPOS MEDIA

A drone shot shows the crowds spread out through the Oceans Calling Festival footprint. This year the grounds will once again include the Boardwalk from N. Division Street south to the Inlet.

Alternate traffic pattern planned

turn around and come back empty, and so they get right back in line, and load again, and load again. That’s their sole mission for the 8 p.m. to 1 a.m. shift.”

A designated drop-off and pick-up location will also be established in the Boardwalk block of North Division Street for individuals with disabilities. For those using rideshares and taxis, a drop-off and pick-up location will be established at the 4th Street municipal parking lot, located at 409 Baltimore Avenue.

However, officials say drivers can expect road closures and alternate traffic patterns throughout the weekend. The Ocean City Police Department reports alternate traffic patterns will begin at 8 p.m. daily to assist with traffic flow in the downtown area.

Traffic will be prohibited from traveling south of North Division Street, and the southbound turn lane off the Route 50 bridge will be restricted to emergency vehicles, mass transit vehicles and residents. Vehicles will be diverted onto North Division Street and then north on Baltimore Avenue.

A traffic pattern will also be established to direct all southbound traffic on St. Louis Avenue to 2nd Street, then toward Philadelphia Avenue. Southbound traffic on St. Louis Avenue will be restricted to emergency vehicles, residents, employees and patrons of downtown businesses.

Motorists can also expect northbound traffic on Baltimore Avenue, from South Division to Talbot streets, to be reduced to one lane.

“All traffic patterns and closures are scheduled after 8 p.m. each festival day to be fully in place for the event’s conclusion,” a statement from the police department reads. “The traffic patterns will be implemented to allow for the maximum number of mass transit vehicles and provide plenty of space for pedestrians to exit the venue area. The traffic pattern will resume normal after the downtown area is cleared of festival goers.”

Country festival to follow

Building off the success of the first Oceans Calling Festival, officials earlier this year announced a two-weekend festival series would take place in Ocean City this fall. In addition to the second iteration of Oceans Calling, C3 Presents also shared plans for a new Country Calling Festival, to take place Oct. 4-5.

At the end of Oceans Calling, the Boardwalk will reopen to the public. However, closures will be reinstated ahead of next weekend. Similar to Oceans Calling, Country Calling will have three stages within the same footprint. Between the two weekends, the stages will remain set up, officials report.

Headlining this year’s country festival are Eric Church, Jelly Roll, Tyler Childers and Lainey Wilson with additional performances by Riley Green, Martina McBride, The Red Clay Strays, Brothers Osborne, Tanya Tucker and more. For more information, visit countrycallingfestival.com.

Things I Like... vanishing vanishing OCEAN CITY WITH

By Steve Green

Homecoming pictures

The high road as the best road

A freshly cut lawn

Watching a good coach’s speech

My kids unloading the groceries

Transparency

At least two vacations a year

Uninterrupted sleep

Weekends with no plans

Any breakfast meat

A heavy rocks glass

Located on the beach in front of the Plim Plaza Hotel the biblical sand sculptures have been a tourist attraction for over 45 years. Themes such as the Last Supper, Jesus on the Cross, the Magi, and Noah’s Ark inspire and delight thousands of Boardwalk visitors each summer.

The large sculptures began in the early 1970s by artist Marc Altamar and continued under the skilled hands of local craftsman Randy Hofman after Altamar moved to Florida in 1981. Hofman carves the figures using just his hands and a plastic crab knife while a mixture of glue and water helps pressure his artwork. Depending on the weather they can last several weeks.

The biblical sand sculptures are one of the most photographed sights in Ocean City.

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

Photo by Bunk Mann

Council signs off on Berlin special event dates for ‘25

By Tara Fischer Staff Writer

(Sept. 27, 2024) The Town of Berlin’s schedule of events is set for next year.

The Berlin Town Council approved the proposed event dates, presented by Berlin Economic and Community Development Director Ivy Wells at a meeting Monday.

The town will host Berlin Restaurant Week from Jan. 17-23; the Berlin Little League Parade from 8-9 a.m., April 12; Memorial Day at the Monument, 8-9 a.m., May 25; the Memorial Day Parade 6 a.m. to 6 p.m., May 26; Berlin fireworks and the Fourth of July celebration at dusk, July 3; the “Runaway Bride” fun run/ walk, to be referred to as “Runaway Bride Rerun,” 7:45-8:45 a.m., July 26; and National Night Out, 4-7 p.m., Aug. 5.

A Back to School Movie in the Park is set for 7:30 p.m., Aug. 30; Oktoberfest is scheduled for Oct. 18; Truck-N-Treat will kick off at 10 a.m., Oct. 25; the Fall Glow Walk is slated for 5-7 p.m., Nov. 7; Ice Ice Berlin and Tree Lighting will be 5-9 p.m., Nov. 28; the Christmas Parade is at 7 p.m., Dec. 4; and the New Year’s Eve Celebration is to be held at 5 p.m., Dec. 31.

The Berlin Farmer’s Market will welcome patrons each Sunday from May through September. Wells said the date could change, though, as the town is

using this year to determine if the market can extend into October. If the autumnal market is a success, it will be brought back for the 2025 season.

The council also discussed some changes to the proposed schedule.

Berlin Cleanup Day, a communitywide volunteer effort to beautify the town, was initially scheduled for April 27. However, Wells and Public Works Director Jimmy Charles agreed to move the event up to April 12, the week before Easter.

The motion inspired a discussion about possibly doing away with the cleanup project entirely.

“I wonder if the work is helpful or if it is creating more work,” Berlin Mayor Zack Tyndall said. “I wonder if this is a carry-through of something we have done for a long time and if it is actually working.”

Charles noted that volunteerism had dwindled.

Tyndall proposed eliminating the cleanup day and rescheduling Take Pride in Berlin Week, set for April 21-27, to coincide with the town’s birthday at the end of March.

“We can do something more community pride and less labor,” he added.

The council agreed with the mayor’s proposed plan, but no official action was taken.

Opinions

Save commercial fishing industry

Commercial fishing operators working out of the harbor in West Ocean City have been cast adrift, as the push to build an offshore wind farm about 12 miles east of Ocean City has rolled over their concerns.

As was noted in a meeting Tuesday between Department of Natural Resources officials and commercial fishing operators, the construction of a maintenance facility at the commercial harbor could leave the few boats still operating there without space to unload their catch.

No one, outside of the fishing community itself, apparently thought of that problem and one suspects that the state and federal goverments would advise members of that indusry to produce their own solution, which they don’t have the resources to do.

The reason this area’s commercial fishing families are in such trouble as they face wind farm development is that there are so few of them. On the mainland side of this state and beyond, the circumstances of a couple of dozen people aren’t going to be viewed as that big a deal.

Further, the state and federal governments’ total disregard of all local opposition to wind farms within sight of land is not because they disagree with the local stance, it’s because they don’t have to care when so few votes are involved.

If an offshore wind installation actually does rise up off the coast — it’s been 14 years and three presidential administrations in the making, after all — Ocean City will survive.

That may not be the case for West Ocean City’s commercial fishing operations, which have few resources and advocates. Protecting commercial fishing here isn’t simply a business issue, it’s a heritage issue, and maybe if the public and local governments get fully behind it, something might be done to preserve it.

Surely, if the state can go all out to save horseracing as a matter of heritage, as it did many years ago, it can do the same for the commercial fishing industry, especially on the coast.

Among the many things that fascinate me — don’t forget, National Bladder Month is just a few weeks away, so start planning — I’ve taken an interest in the model names of cars.

By Stewart Dobson

In particular, I think about why the manufacturer picked a specific name in the first place.

Take the Subaru Forester, for in stance. Obviously, this name was attached to this vehicle because “Forester” sounds outdoorsy and inviting.

you went the dealership to get a charger for your Charger and told the front desk, “I need a Charger charger.”

“Great great,” the desk person says, “Let me take you to Sales Sales.”

EDITOR STEWART DOBSON; EXECUTIVE EDITOR STEVE GREEN

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Contact News Room: editor@oceancitytoday.net SALES

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Then there’s the Lincoln Aviator, the name of which suggests something adventurous, independent and, possibly, a cool leather coat.

Dodge Ram: That’s easy, because rams are powerful and sturdy, which is how the company wants its pickup trucks perceived.

Then there are car model names that just baffle me, like the Toyota Camry. What is a camry, anyway? It sounds like something someone with a strong Tennessee accent might say:

“Well, dang. Here I’m at the Grand Ol’ Opry and forgot to bring my camry so I could take pitchers.”

Remember the old Pontiac Trans Am? All I can say is that name has been banned in Florida.

On the other hand, I think Dodge is missing a good marketing opportunity by not making an electric Dodge Charger instead of making a Dodge charger for its hybrid vehicle, the Hornet.

I suppose it would be confusing, though, if

The ones that really get me are those employed by the maker of my vehicle, Hyundai. I have a Santa Cruz, which is presumably named after the California beach town. That’s a long, long way from Korea, but marketing figured that I, being a shallow American, would be more likely to buy a car with that name than I would a car named after one of its beach towns like, say, Gangneung.

I’m not making fun of Gangneung, as I hear it’s a great place, but I feel it just doesn’t have that American ring to it like Santa Cruz does, especially if Pearl Jam were to change its “Santa Cruz” lyrics to, “I got a feeling that I just can't lose/Pulling into Gangneung.”

Actually, British and European auto makers figured out the whole naming convention many years ago, when they decided just to call them by letters and numbers — BMW uses X’s and numbers, Mercedes uses C’s, G’s, and E’s, and Jaguar gives its cars an F, E, X, or I.

Generally speaking, though, the idea of car names is to conjure up an image of something desirable, adventurous, powerful, refined, elegant and even economic.

That’s why you generally see model names that involve animals (Cougar, Bronco, Impala) notable locales, (Tucson, Sierra, New Yorker) and fun things to do (Wrangler, Expedition).

And is perhaps why you will never see a car named after a vegetable. I’m pretty sure that the prototype Porsche Potato isn’t going to sell.

Between the Lines

By Steve Green

A case could be made for the issue of short-term rentals being the most discussed matter in Ocean City over the last five years. The topic continually surfaces because there’s no easy way to address a real problem – there are far too many short-term rentals for enforcement to realistically take place.

How to create regulations that can hold homeowners accountable is the major concern with the current discussion. On the table currently is setting a minimum length of stay of five days during the summer for short-term rentals in the R-1 residential and MH mobile home districts. Another proposal sets an occupancy limit of two people per bedroom plus two more guests. The idea is to cut down on the weekend party places near year-round citizens and communities. As to be expected, the regulations are favored by citizens and opposed by investment property owners who bought their units with the sole intent of renting to generate side income. There are about 9,000 rentals that fall under the short-term rental general scope, but Planning Commissioner Palmer Gillis pointed out this week the specific rules under consideration now actually only apply to about 230 licenses due to their locales in the R-1 and MH districts.

Commission members seem to have disparate views. Gillis said, “I’ve watched a community, a neighborhood dissolve and be compromised because of short-term rentals in another city nearby her. I think we need to do everything we can do to protect the single-family zoning district, which is R-1. I’m not sure about the MH.” While real estate broker Joe Wilson countered with, “I personally do not like the minimum length of stay. As someone who’s in the vacation rental industry, I can tell you the average length of stay has been decreasing over time. The days of having someone stay here for seven days in a row are gone. It’s just not here.” In between the points of view seemingly was Commissioner Janet Hough, who said, “occupancy is the problem in R-1. I think that’s more important than the minimum length of stay…”

What matters most to me is whatever is passed be enforceable. Shortterm rentals are here to stay and their impact on hotels will continue to be significant. Passing regulations to hold property owners accountable is a worthwhile goal but only if there’s a mechanism for enforcement. It’s going to cost money.

***

A story in the paper this week that will likely not get much attention involves a land use designation change along Route 589. It’s significant because it will likely result in new development along the corridor’s west side north of the casino and south of Gum Point Road.

Fifteen parcels along Route 589 will be changed from agriculture to commercial following a 6-1 vote by the County Commissioners (Chip Bertino, the Ocean Pines commissioner, opposed). It’s a clerical matter essentially, as the zoning had already been changed to C-2 commercial, but the land use map designated it agricultural. Attorney Mark Cropper, on behalf of his client Racetrack Plaza LLC, reminded the commissioners the change was unanimously supported by the planning commission last week.

What does this mean? A new commercial shopping center, or two, will be coming to the stretch of road.

***

It was a weekend to forget for Ocean City. What transpired two weekends ago with the incidents of Bike Week (particularly the high-profile collision involving 16-year-old Tyler Walsh) and medical waste washing ashore was a public relations nightmare.

A Google News search on the following Monday morning featured dozens of negative news stories from a tourism standpoint, but this is life for a resort area. Millions of dollars in marketing can be quickly undone by current events, resulting in some creative social media takes on the “somewhere to smile about” line used by Ocean City. A friend in the metropolitan New York area sent me a video of the news account involving the medical waste washing ashore in seaside locales, including Ocean City. The first message during the commercial break featured the “somewhere to smile about” marketing. The timing was certainly interesting.

A similar Google News search on this coming Monday morning should feature crowds and the Oceans Calling Festival. It’s just a cycle that comes and goes, but let’s all hope we don’t have too many of those midSeptember weekends. On that note, the motor vehicle task force convened yesterday to discuss the biker event in general as well as whether to apply a special event zone for the weekend in 2025. It seems a logical reaction to be followed likely be deeper dives. More on that next week.

Political advertisement for Harris appreciated

Editor,

Thanks Peter Ayers Wimbrow lll. for your full page ad supporting Kamala Harris.

I agree and to add as a former New York City resident from 1963—I know first hand Trump’s behavior. Anything related to the humanity of others that are not to his liking is his modus operandi to be negative. Examples can be heard and seen in all of his obnoxious verbiage. As an African American I saw and heard all of this in NYC coming forward to being a Berlin resident six years ago. And he still continues. That’s why we need a new positive uplifting humanitarian to lead the country in the White House — Kamala Harris.

Gladys Watson Berlin

Contact governor about wind concerns

Editor,

I recently moved to Ocean City, the fulfillment of a decades long dream. I was able to attend the information session sponsored by the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM).

What I gleaned from the many booths was far worse than I had anticipated. Aside from the devastating and disruptive effects to our delicate marine ecosystems, bird migration, and wind patterns aside from the effects it will have on the local fishing industry, aside from the fact that a

project presented as “green” uses vast amounts of petroleum based products and toxic chemicals that will leech into the ocean, by far the most immediate threat is the visual impact all of those turbines would have off our shoreline. It would be catastrophic and ruin one of the main and cherished features of beautiful Ocean City.

Folks, this must be stopped. It is simply a bad idea. There is no one more than me who would rather simply walk the beach and Boardwalk, ignore this, and let someone else take care of it. However, unfortunately, it will not go away if we simply ignore it.

Residents, businesses, hotels, and tourists, all who love Ocean City and for whom it is your “happy place,”surrounding communities, let your voices be heard. Contact the governor, contact our state representatives, support the efforts of your local officials, and contact saveocencity.org to find out what else you might do. Listen to your gut instincts, Don’t be intimidated by the “experts” and the jargon. Speak out however and whenever you can.

Don’t let it slip off the radar screens and out of the public eye, because that’s exactly what those pushing this project hope for. Then, it will “sneak in under cover of night” and it will be too late. Contact the governor: governor.maryland.gov

Forms (accessgov.com) marybeth.carozza@senate.state.m d.us charles.otto@house.state.md.us Failure cannot be an option. Michael Ryan Ocean City

American soldiers capture old German city

By Peter Ayers Wimbrow III Contributing Writer

This week, 80 years ago, American soldiers of the following divisions were engaged in capturing the 1,900 year old city of Aachen: 1st Infantry; 2nd Armored; 3rd Armored; 9th Infantry; 28th Infantry; 29th Infantry; 30th Infantry.

Aachen is the westernmost German city, located 38 miles southwest of Cologne, along the borders of Belgium and the Netherlands. During the reign of the Emperor, Charlemagne, in the Eighth Century, the city had served as his capital and continued to be the site of the coronation of his successors for the next 600 years. Upon Charlemagne’s death, he was buried in the Aachen Cathedral,

which would see the coronation of 30 German kings and 12 queens. Today Aachen has a population of 240,000.

Eighty years ago, the city had been incorporated into the Siegfried Line, Germany’s defensive system on its western border. At the time, its population numbered about 165,000. Now the Germans were fighting on their home soil. As one German officer commented, “Suddenly we were no longer the Nazis, we were German soldiers.”

By mid-September, the American 1st Infantry Division - “The Big Red One” - commanded by Clarence R. Huebner, had formed a semicircle around the German city. Further Allied advance was limited because supplies were being diverted to Oper-

ation Market Garden. At that time, the city was defended by the 116th Panzer Division, commanded by Gerhardt Wilck. The lull in the fighting allowed the Wehrmacht to reinforce the Aachen defenses. The LXXXI Corps, commanded by Friedrick Köchling began arriving in October. It included the following divisions: 183rd Volksgrenadier and 49th Infantry, both commanded by Wolfgang Lange; 12th Infantry, commanded by Gerhardt Engel; 246th Volksgrenadier Division, commanded by Wilck, who took over command after remnants of the 116th Panzer Division were removed from the city. On October 7, units of the elite SS Liebstandarte Adolph Hitler, commanded by Wilhelm Mohnke, began arriving.

By October 1, “The Big Red One” had been joined by the 30th Infantry Division, commanded by Leland S. Hobbs. Because it consisted of National Guardsman from North and South Carolina and Tennessee, it was known as “The Old Hickory” Division.

The next day, the Ninth Air Force, commanded by Lewis H. Brereton, opened an aerial bombardment with 450 aircraft. Unfortunately, this bombardment failed to register a single direct hit on any German pillbox. After the Air Force had finished, 372 guns began shelling the German positions. Also, that day, “Old Hickory,” began its advance, subduing approximately 50 German pillboxes on its

Continued Page 88

Clarence Ralph Huebner, commander Big Red 1

Budget surplus to help afterschool program shortfall

By Tara Fischer Staff Writer

(September 20, 2024) The Worcester County Board of Education voted to allocate a portion of the projected fiscal year 2024 surplus for after-school programs for the current fiscal year.

According to Chief Financial Officer Vince Tolbert, as the system finalizes its FY24 audit, it anticipates a $800,000 surplus from the unrestricted operating budget, which totaled $125,946,391. Of the $800,000, $567,000 will be set aside as revenue for FY26 to keep the system “revenue neutral in FY26’s budget.”

The remaining $233,000 will be used to fund after-school programs in FY25.

The board’s president, Todd Ferrante, noted that no funding was available for after-school initiatives at Ocean City Elementary School, Showell Elementary School or Stephen Decatur High School.

Tolbert said that financial aid for after-school academies had been reduced in the past few years per the Maintenance of Effort funding formula, the lowest legal monetary amount the local government could provide to the system in FY24.

Tolbert said the funding was requested to be restored in FY25, but the ask was denied. In response to the lack of monetary support, Worcester County Superintendent Lou Taylor recommended that the $233,000 be transferred to the programs.

The board approved the suggestion in a 6-0 vote. Member Donald Smack was absent. Board member Dr. Jon Andes motioned to green light the recommendation, which member Elena McComas seconded.

Taylor maintained that with the board’s approval, the body will take the recommendation to the Worcester County Commissioners to seek their approval.

Eastern Shore

first day. At the end of the second day, “Old Hickory” had lost 300 soldiers. By October 4, total casualties for the Americans were 1,800. The Germans knew they could not hold, so reinforcements were rushed in, which included the 3rd Panzergrenadier Division, commanded by Walter Denkert, and the reconstituted 116th Panzer Division, commanded by Siegfried von Waldenburg. By now “The Big Red One,” had begun its offensive, and within two days had captured the highest ground around the city.

On October 16, the 30th and 1st Infantry Divisions linked up - six days late - and the city of Aachen was surrounded. The cost to the Americans was 400 dead and 2,000 wounded, with most coming from “Old Hickory.” The Germans had suffered 5,700 casualties and the garrison was

reduced to 4,392 combat effectives. That day, First Lts. Cedric A. Lafley and William Boehme and PFC Ken Kading, under a flag of truce, delivered a message from General Heubner to the garrison’s Commander, Col. Leyherr, of the 246th Volksgrenadier Division. The message read that, “The city of Aachen is now completely surrounded by American forces. If the city is not promptly and completely surrendered unconditionally, the American Army ground and air forces will proceed ruthlessly, with air and artillery bombardment, to reduce it to submission.” When the Germans refused, the next day, four groups of the 9th Tactical Air Command’s, P-38s and P-47s dropped 62 tons of bombs on the city. American artillery dumped 169 tons of shells on the city - with little effect. The following day, 99 more tons of bombs and another

5,000 rounds of artillery were dropped on the city.

On October 18, the Hotel Quellenhof, which was acting as the city’s defense headquarters, was assaulted. However, an SS Battalion was able to throw back the assault and even capture several Americans. So the Americans brought up the heavy artillery, literally, and began to pound the hotel with 155 mm guns.

In the meantime, relief attempts were mounted by General Denkert’s 3rd Panzergrenadier and General von Waldenburg’s reconstituted 116th Panzer Divisions, while Field Marshal Gerd von Rundsted, recently reinstalled as Commander-in-Chief, West, reminded, “ . . . the commander of the 246th Volksgrenadier Division - [Gerhardt Wilck] - once more, and with the utmost emphasis, that he will hold this venerable German city to the last man, and will, if necessary, allow himself to be buried under its ruins.”

With the relief attempts failing, Wilck, on the afternoon of October 9, instructed that,

“The defenders of Aachen will prepare for the last battle. Constricted to the smallest possible space, we shall fight to the last man, the last shell, the last bullet, in accordance with the Führer’s orders. In the face of the contemptible, despicable treason committed by certain individuals, I expect each and every defender of the

venerable city of Aachen to do his duty to the end, in fulfillment of our oath to the flag. I expect courage and determination and to hold out.

Long live the Führer and our beloved Fatherland!”

On October 21, Wilck sent out two American prisoners - Staff Sgt. Ewart M. Padgett and PFC James B. Haswell - under a flag of truce, with two German officers in tow. Brigadier General George A. Taylor, assistant commander of “The Big Red One,” accepted the German surrender at 12:05 p.m. on October 21. The ancient capital of Charlemagne’s empire - the First Reich - was now in American hands.

Capturing the city had cost the Americans 5,000 casualties. The Germans lost an equal amount, and 5,600 taken prisoner. Most of the American casualties were suffered by the “Old Hickory” Division - 3,000while “The Big Red One” had at least 1,350. Both the “Old Hickory” and the “Big Red One” received Distinguished Unit Citations for the Battle of Aachen.

NEXT WEEK: WARSAW

Mr. Wimbrow writes from Ocean City, Maryland, where he practices law representing those persons accused of criminal and traffic offenses, and those persons who have suffered a personal injury through no fault of their own. He can be contacted at wimbrowlaw@gmail.com

OBITUARIES

HARRY OLIVER HIGBEE

Cape May, New Jersey

Harry Oliver Higbee, 85, of Cape May, New Jersey, passed away on Thursday, Sept. 12, 2024, at Delmar Manor Assisted Living.

Born in Fortescue, New Jersey he was the son of the late Clarence Addison “Jim” Higbee and Mildred (Cossaboon) Higbee. He was the loving husband of the late Virginia Warren Higbee.

Harry was a graduate of Bridgeton High School, Class of 1957. Harry was a waterman from a very young age. Working with his father on the family party boat, “Bay Sweep,” he eventually became a commercial clammer. There was nothing more that he wanted than to become a commercial fisherman, which he excelled at. He became Captain of the F/V Kathleen Riggin, out of Port Norris for Riggin and Robbins (which eventually became Gortons).

After his father’s passing, he became the owner of the F/V Katie Sharp. Having a work ethic like no other, he eventually purchased the F/V Billy Jo and F/V Debbie & Jeanette. He clammed up and down the coast – from Oyster, Virginia, to Point Pleasant Beach, New Jersey.

While living in Ocean City, he met the love of his life, his wife Virginia.

After retirement, Harry and Virginia could be found fishing and cruising up and down the East Coast on their boat “Eastern Shore,” taking trips with many friends and family. Harry loved teaching his grandchildren to fish and about being on the water, this is where he was most at home.

In the winters, they would head south for Key Largo, Florida. Harry knew no strangers and made friends wherever he went. With the wink of an eye or his quick wit, wherever Harry was, you knew it.

Harry is survived by daughters Jeanette Higbee and Deborah Higbee; and son William “Billy” Higbee (Faith); stepdaughter Virginia “Ginna” Jenkins; grandchildren Jeana, Kenneth (Amy), Tyler, Jodi, Brielle, Matthew (Jessica), Michael (Candice), Charles “Chase” III (Gabrielle) and Jeffrey (Shannon); great-grandchildren Julius, Alayna, Juliana, Abraxus, Cullen, Kingsley, Hannah and Charles IV. He is also survived by his sister, Marilee (Jerry) Bryan; and sisters-in-law Elizabeth “Betty” Higbee, Kathleen “Kay” Biondi and Carolyn Elliott.

In addition to his wife, Virginia, and his parents, Harry was preceded in death by his infant son, Harry Higbee Jr.; and his brother, Clarence

“Bunky” Higbee. He was also preceded by stepchildren Joan “Jody” Jenkins and Charles R. “Buddy” Jenkins Jr.

Our entire family would like to express our thanks and deepest gratitude to the staff of Delmar Manor, Memory Care Facility in Delmar, for their love and care of Harry. A Celebration of Life service will be at 11:30 a.m., Thursday, Oct. 3, at Evoy Funeral Home, 3218 Bayshore Road North, in Cape May New Jersey. Family and friends are invited to pay their respects from 10:30 until the time of service. We ask that you do not wear black as this is a celebration and to share a Harry story.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Harry’s name to The Fisherman’s Memorial, City of Cape May, Finance Department, 643 Washington St Cape May, NJ 08204, or to the charity of your choice. Condolences

may be shared at EvoyFuneralHome.com or BurbageFuneralHome.com

ARTHUR “ART” TERRY COX

Berlin

Arthur “Art” Terry Cox, 80, passed away on Tuesday, May 28, 2024, at Coastal Hospice at the Lake in Salisbury. He was born in New York City and resided in Ocean Pines. He was the son of the late Colin Cox and Mary (Rock) Cox. After graduating from Richard Montgomery High School in 1961, he joined the United States Air Force of which he was a proud member. He served for six years, where he worked as a mechanic on McDonnell Douglas Continued on Page 90

Arthur Terry Cox

Harry Higbee

WHAT TIME IS IT?

Joseph “Jaybird” Eugene Vinciguerra, age 63, passed away on Thursday, August 22, 2024. Jaybird, a Maryland native and life-long resident, was the son of Matthew John Vinciguerra, Sr. and Frances Irma Vinciguerra, both deceased. He is survived by his sister, Debra Vinciguerra, and his nephew, Richard M.D. Husk. Jay is also survived by his large and loving OG family who have loved him & shared his daily life for over 30 years.

Jaybird will always be remembered for his vibrant spirit, and his loyalty and dedication to family and friends. He was a devout fan of all football, but the Redskins were his team for over 50 years, and he rarely missed watching a game. He had a passion for life that touched everyone he met, leaving behind cherished memories and a legacy of love. Jay had many friends from junior high school that became OC residents, continuing their deep and abiding friendships for decades.

His warmth and kindness will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

A memorial gathering to celebrate and honor Jaybird will take place on October 19, 2024, at 4PM on the beach in Ocean City, MD, at 120th Street. Friends and family are invited to bring a chair and join us in celebrating his life and sharing memories.

When tom row starts wi out me, Don’t ink we’re far apart, F every time you ink of me, I am right ere, I’m in your heart.

OBITUARIES

Continued from Page 89

F-4 Phantom II airplanes. He then worked for the United States Postal Service for many years.

After retiring in 1998, Art and his late wife, Angie, moved to Ocean Pines, in 2002. They then began the start of a long career of cruising with the Holland America Line. Some of his favorite places that he traveled were Alaska, Antarctica, and Australia. He was so proud when they received their certificate for 500 days cruised with Holland America.

Art also enjoyed spending the evening with his good friends and family at the Ocean City Marlin Club. Many of his close friends and family would describe him as humble, kind, and always willing to lend a helping hand. He will be missed dearly by his many loved ones.

Art Cox was preceded in death by his wife of 48 years, Angie (Browning) Cox; and stepson Lee Beckley.

Left to honor his memory are his daughter, Shelly (Cox) Sexton; stepson Thom Beckley; step daughtersin-law Teresa (Rice) Beckley and Karen (Obrigkeit) Beckley; son-inlaw Jim Sexton; six grandchildren, Colton Beckley, Jody Barnes, Drew Sexton, Chaz Sexton, Alexis Sexton, and Nicole Sexton; two granddaughters-in-law, Brittany (Long) Sexton and Jordan (Pope) Sexton; grandsonin-law Chris Barnes; four great-

grandchildren, Dylan Barnes, Avery Sexton, Lydia Sexton, and Briella Sexton; his brother-in-law, Pinoake Browning and his wife, Carole Larsen; and his family at the Ocean City Marlin Club.

He was cremated following his death.

A celebration of life will be held fro, 1-3 p.m., Saturday Oct. 26, at the Ocean City Marlin Club.

Letters of condolence can be sent to the family via burbagefuneralhome.com. Arrangements are in the care of The Burbage Funeral Home.

SHIRLEY LAWLER

Ocean Pines/Ludlow, Massachusetts

Shirley Lawler, formerly of Ocean Pines, passed away peacefully at home in Ludlow, Massachusetts, on Aug. 4, 2024.

Born in Haverhill, Massachusetts, on July 14, 1930, she was the the youngest of ten children born to Melvena and William Mourey. Shirley met her late husband, John M. Lawler (Jack), while working at a Springfield movie theatre during high school and was married in 1951.

Jack and Shirley raised their three sons in Severna Park, and moved in retirement to Ocean Pines, where they enjoyed hosting their children, grandchildren and friends at the beach. In retirement, Shirley had many hobbies, including gardening, reading, crossword puzzles, bingo, cross stitching and baking. She also loved to play competitive games, especially Parcheesi.

$1,595.

Shirley was active in the Ocean Pines Widow and Widowers group after Jack died in 2007, often bringing her favorite baked treats to activities. She spent her last six years living in Ludlow, Massachusetts, with her son, Tom, his wife, Kim, and granddaughter Emily.

Shirley was a loving mother to Michael, Jeff and his wife Peggy, Tom and his wife Kim, and her late son David. She was a cherished grandmother to Jennifer Schmith, Carrie Vaught, Mike Lawler Jr., David Lawler, Jamie Diers, Zachary Lawler, Daniel Lawler, Amanda Lawler, Brian Lawler and Emily Lawler. Shirley is also survived by 19 great-grandchildren; numerous nieces and nephews; and other relatives and friends.

She is now at home with her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

There will be a graveside ceremony at 9:30 a.m., Oct. 5, at St. Michael’s Cemetery, 1601 State St., in Springfield Massachusetts. A family and friends gathering will be held following the interment at Villa Rose restaurant in Ludlow, Massachusetts. Memorial donations may be made to Saint Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 Saint Jude Place, Memphis, TN.

Shirley Lawler

Sports & Recreation

Mallards continue winning ways with wins over Dragons

By Susan Taylor-Walls Contributing Writer

(Sept. 27, 2024) The Fighting Mallards of Worcester Prep School in Berlin continued a winning streak when they beat Salisbury School 5-2 last Friday on Homecoming and then won against in a closer contest on Tuesday.

After a rough start, losing to Indian River High School, 5-1, and to Delmar, 5-1, Worcester Prep has righted its ways.

“We started off the season with a slow start as we played two public schools, during the last two games we changed up our configuration to get

things to go our way and it seems to be working out. We had a good day,” said Assistant Coach J.P. McIntyre said.

The Mallards won their third straight last Friday after wins over Holly Grove Christian School 10-0 and Delmarva Christian High School 3-2.

“We wanted to play a full 80 minutes of Worcester Prep soccer,” said McIntyre. “In the first half, we did 30 minutes out of 40 and in the second half we did 33 out of 40.”

They played hard and controlled the ball. They got a little sloppy during the 2nd half. According to coach

McIntyre, “I think we played better today; we had control and we had possession the majority of the game. We had a good day. “

During the first half the Mallards scored 4 goals, two each scored by Seniors Edward Martikyan and Aleksey Klimins. The Dragons solidified their defense allowing only one goal in the second half by Senior Benjamin McGovern.

On Tuesday, the Mallards defeated the Dragons again, but it was closer.

With the squad depleted by injuries and sickness, the Mallards had a rough start falling behind 1-0 at halftime. The second half, however, was owned by Worcester Prep with sophomore Caleb Walston tallying two goals on assists by Jack Adkins and Ben McGovern. The Mallards defense limited the Dragons to no shots on goal in the second half. The win was the fourth in a row for Prep.

The Mallards next home game will be Senior Night on Oct. 1 at 4 p.m.

PHOTOS COURTESY NICK DENNY

PURPLE FOR MASON

On the field, Worcester Prep’s girls soccer team lost last Wednesday, 3-1, to the Salisbury School, but both teams were winners for the hearts they dispayed by wearing purple to support a local boy and his family living with Dravet Syndrome. Above left, senior Jayden Scopp, left, prepares to pass to sophomore Emma Nordstrom. Above right, freshman Elena Gioni sprints down field.

PHOTO COURTESY SUSAN TAYLOR-WALLS

Worcester Prep senior Dillon Scopp makes a save with the help of junior Jake Campbell during the Mallards’ Sept. 20 game against the Salisbury School at home.

PHOTO COURTESY SUSAN TAYLOR-WALLS

Mallard Edward Martikyan takes control of the ball with a header during Worcester Prep’s home game Sept. 20.

Decatur soccer stays hot with 6-0 win over Snow Hill

By Bruce C. Walls Contributing Writer

(Sept. 27, 2024) On a cold and windy Tuesday evening at Louis H. Taylor Field, the Seahawks of Stephen Decatur high school blanked cross-county rival Snow Hill high school Eagles 6-0. The win was the fourth in a row for the Seahawks.

Isaiah Rodriquez booted in the first goal with 16.55 left on the clock in the first half, assisted by Gannon Eastlack. Four minutes later, Juan

Cervantes kicked in the second goal with assistance from Collin Pennington.

“In the first half we just didn’t move the ball as well as I would like,” said Coach J.P. Greenwood. “There is a county rivalry … a lot of my boys attend the tech school together with some of the Snow Hill boys and it got a little personal in the first half.”

At halftime, the score was 2-0.

There was a lot going on in the huddle. Greenwood said, “we talked it

down a little bit and we did much better” in the second half.

Holden Bunting made his first goal with 32 minutes left to play. Meyer Henson kicked in the next goal building the lead to 4-0. A few possessions later, Eastlack took control of the ball and moved it down the field with assistance from Bunting and scored the fifth goa. One minute later Bunting tallied the final goal of the game. Greenwood remarked, “we came in the second half and moved the ball better.” The game’s final score was 60.

Bunting showed leadership in the huddle and on the field, according to Greenwood.

“I stepped up as a senior taking ac-

EXPERIENCE

countability on and off the field. When you do that the entire team gravitates together and it helps everybody have a good mind set…,” Bunting said. “I am taking after the people that lead me by showing how to act on and off the field.”

When discussing Tuesday’s game, Bunting said, ”We keep the game really open. It was a tight game during the first half, and what we did really well was in the second half where we brought our numbers forward making it hard for them to break us down giving us opportunities and we took advantage of them and it went well.”

On Sept. 27 at 5:30 p.m., the Seahawks travel to Pocomoke High School.

PHOTO COURTESY SUSAN TAYLOR-WALLS

Seahawk Holden Bunting is pictured scoring one of his two goals during Stephen Decatur’s game Tuesday against Snow Hill High School.

PHOTO COURTESY SUSAN TAYLOR-WALLS

Seahawk Gannon Eastlack moves the ball down the field for Stephen Decatur’s during Tuesday’s game against Snow Hill High School. He would later score on an assist by teammate Holden Bunting.

PHOTOS COURTESY FISH IN OC

This group, above left, had a great time on the Lucky Break with Captain Jason Mumford landing spot, croaker, blowfish, tautog and sheepshead up to 9.5 pounds. Above right, these ladies landed keeper flounder fishing on the Tortuga out of Bahia Marina.

PHOTOS COURTESY FISH IN OC

This young angler, left, had a great time catching flounder on board the Fish Bound with Captain Kane Bounds. It was quite for this youth angler, above middle, who caught flounder, tog, sheepshead, spot and croaker at the south jetty with Lucky Break Charters. Captain Dave Caffrey of On the Run Charters put this young angler, above right, on a nice 4.5-pound flounder.

Below left, Jeremy Kohr of Kohr Crabbing Supply used the Deadly Tackle Thing a Ma Jig to catch and release some nighttime stripers. Below middle, Ron Edwards and his daughter Piper had a good time catching bluefish with Captain Tony Battista of Saltwater Adventures. Below right, Captain Tony of Saltwater Adventures put his Uncle Bob on some nice bluefish at the Route 50 Bridge.

elcome Oceans Calling atten

We Come see us inside the festiv ndees. al for lunch & dinner!

9/27/2024 OC Today-Dispatch

Wind lease area studied

Three-day festival returns to Ocean City for second year

BREAKFAST

SEPTEMBER

NANCY REITHER-SMITH

Short-term rental regs advance to hearing

BOEM reports no plans to issue leases close to shore

Employee housing requirements questioned

Officials say certain parking restrictions prevent owners from developing projects

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Beaches, ocean reopened after medical waste found

Officials oppose second call area

More questions than answers for fishermen

Knupp paid back funds, will step away from foundation

Impact on harbor worries many

Foundation must be dissolved

Day care abuse case moved to Circuit Court

Cause probed in abandoned Pocomoke structure blaze

Evans disputing assault charges

PUBLIC SAFETY

Purnell upset over Pocomoke funding twist

Diakonia expands homeless services to three counties

Berlin chamber plans two new events for ‘25 calendar

Audio and video course reviewed

N.Y. RESIDENT WINS VACATION

Proposed Berlin community center feasibility study OK’d

Meetings part of community input

Y

Museum’s events slate for 2025 approved

Oceans Calling Recoverry

THERAPY DOGS VISIT

SURF CLUB DONATION

DAWG TEAM APPRECIATED

FEATURED SPEAKER

MIDDLE SCHOOL DONATION

IThe Adventures of Fatherhood

Art League invites artists to submit for future shows

Another auxiliary member with deep roots

Spiced butternut squash shortcake perfect fall dish

Popular seasonal tastes combine

Spiced Butternut Squash Shortcake

Who’s Where When

Best Beats On The Beach

Who’s Where When

Dining Guide

DOWNTOWN

MIDTOWN

FENWICK ISLAND

OCEAN PINES

WEST OCEAN CITY

‘The start of surfing season’ cheered annually by locals

CROSSWORD

HOMECOMING

Plein air contest winners named

Calendar

Fri., Sept. 27

Sat., Sept. 28

Sun., Sept. 29

Mon., Sept. 30

Tues., Oct. 1

CALENDAR

Wed., Oct. 2

Thurs., Oct. 3

ONGOING EVENTS

SEPTEMBER 27, 2024 OC Today-Dispatch 61

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