for our
Aside from a Friday night deluge and some public transportation problems, the music festival gets a big thumbs up from fans and local businesspeople, who said this year’s event exceeded last year’s edition and their expectations. — PAGE 3
Promoter C3 aims to duplicate Oceans Calling’s success with a weekend of country music on the concert grounds this weekend.— PAGE 6
County renews contract with company cited in ongoing wrongful death lawsuit — PAGE 23
Ocean City’s tough-ontraffic Special Event Zone could be called into play for next year’s Bikefest, following a recommendation from the Motor Event Task Force. — PAGE 16
By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor
(Oct. 4, 2024) While rain and flooding caused delays during the festival’s first day, officials and business owners report they were better prepared for the second installment of Oceans Calling, which brought more than 50,000 attendees to town each day over the weekend.
Following the success of last year’s Oceans Calling Festival, the outlook going into last weekend’s three-day event seemed bright for event promoter C3 Presents and the Town of Ocean City. And while rain and flooding led to significant logistical issues Friday, officials report the event was largely celebrated by concertgoers and business owners.
“I think the entire Oceans Calling weekend was a huge success,” Mayor Rick Meehan said this week. “Again we had concert attendees from every state and it looked like everyone enjoyed the event. The weather didn’t cooperate Friday night but the concert goers hung in there and they were rewarded with great weather Saturday and Sunday. The band
lineup was awesome, and the crowds were polite and just enjoying themselves.”
Like last year, rain moved through the area during the first day of Oceans Calling. However, heavy downpours started in the early evening and continued throughout the night, leaving attendees soaked as they made their way out of the festival footprint at the conclusion of day one. Additionally, the weather led to a 45-minute delay in Friday night’s headliner, Blink 182, taking the stage. Due to the delay and lack of communication from the festival, thousands of attendees left Friday night before the band took the stage around 10:20 p.m.
As a result of the rain and flooding, Transit Manager Rob Shearman said concertgoers moved in and out of the festival grounds in patterns the city’s transportation department did not anticipate. Despite preparations, he said buses were overwhelmed on Friday evening.
“Friday night was certainly the most
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By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor
(Oct. 4, 2024) Following an Oceans Calling weekend that attracted huge crowds, officials and community members are now preparing for the inaugural Country Calling Festival.
Beginning Friday, national country acts will take the stage at the firstever Country Calling Festival. Held Oct. 4-5, the event will feature more than 25 artists on three stages at the south end of Ocean City. The festival will kick off Friday with performances by Eric Church, Jelly Roll, Riley Green, Warren Zeiders, Clint Black, Martina McBride, The Red Clay Strays, Needtobreathe, Kylie Morgan, Ella Langley, Alexandra Kay, Hueston, Jimmy Charles and Will Jones. And on Saturday, the event will conclude with performances by Tyler Childers, Lainey Wilson, Bailey Zimmerman, Brothers Osborne, Dwight Yoakam, Tanya Tucker, Parmalee, Paul Cauthen, Alana Springsteen, Nikki Lane, Dasha, Drayton Farley, Aidan Canfield and Waylon Wyatt.
Earlier this year, promoter C3 Presents shared plans for a two-day country music festival to follow its popular Oceans Calling event. As the
first music festival concluded Sunday, officials with C3 Presents and the Town of Ocean City began preparing for what will be another sold-out event this weekend.
Same festival setups
Officials say Country Calling will utilize the same setup as Oceans Calling. The Boardwalk from 27th Street to North Division Street will be open to the public throughout the festival. However, the Boardwalk south of North Division Street, and businesses in that area, will be included in the festival grounds and will only be accessible to festival goers.
Festival gates open at noon until 11 p.m. Friday and Saturday, and food, drinks and merchandise can be purchased from vendors and Boardwalk businesses. Jolly Roger at the Pier
will be included in the festival footprint, as well as Thrasher’s French Fries, Dumser’s Dairyland, The Dough Roller, Dolle’s and numerous other popular establishments.
Officials report the Boardwalk will fully reopen to the public on Oct. 6, while the downtown beach will reopen in stages as areas are cleaned. Alternate transportation encouraged for second festival weekend
Similar to Oceans Calling, concertgoers can expect travel delays as they make their way to and from Country Calling this weekend. Officials urge attendees to walk, bike or utilize public transportation, as parking will be limited and road closures will be in effect.
“We anticipate a steady flow of vehicle and pedestrian traffic through-
out the day,” a notice to media outlets reads. “The majority of the traffic congestion is anticipated after the festival. We will have an alternate traffic pattern established to allow for additional pedestrian walkways, and the ability to stage multiple Beach Buses along Baltimore Ave. for those wishing to take the bus back. To avoid congestion, take a stroll along the Ocean City Boardwalk or visit a downtown business outside of the festival footprint.”
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 Country Calling, 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.
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 the same road closures and alternate traffic patterns that were implemented for last week’s Oceans Calling Festival. 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.
Public Service Commission to hold virutal hearing this month on company request
By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor
(Oct. 4, 2024) A proposal from US Wind to expand its project off Maryland’s coast will be the subject of a public hearing later this month.
On Wednesday, Oct. 16, the Maryland Public Service Commission will hold a virtual hearing on US Wind’s request to revise and expand its offshore wind project, located in federal waters roughly 10 miles from Ocean City’s shoreline. The proposal comes five months after Gov. Wes Moore signed House Bill 1296 into law, facilitating the evaluation and approval of revised offshore wind projects.
“In its review of US Wind’s applica-
tion, the commission will evaluate the project’s environmental, health, and economic benefits, as well as the bill’s impacts to Maryland utility ratepayers,” a notice reads.
Earlier this year, Danish company Ørsted announced plans to reposition its Skipjack Wind project, which was set to bring a 966megawatt project off the Delmarva coastline. To that end, legislation – cross-filed as House Bill 1296 and Senate Bill 1161 – was introduced during the 2024 General Assembly session, requiring the Maryland Public Service Commission to open a revised
round-two proceeding and authorize certain offshore wind projects to submit revised plans for project schedules, sizes and pricing, among other things.
‘The bill does not restart the process for the projects. Merely, it allows limited alterations to already approved plans, including the adjustment to turbine placement, generating capacity, installation dates and pricing within the existing statutory limits.’
Del. C.T. Wilson (D-28)
“Revisions outlined in House Bill 1296 seeks to streamline the approval process for revised project schedules and pricing, ensure the project is located in the authorized wind energy area, and those possessing offshore wind renewable energy credits can move forward expeditiously,” Del. C.T. Wilson (D-28), the bill’s sponsor, said in a hearing last winter. “Moreover, the bill does not restart the process for the proj-
ects. Merely, it allows limited alterations to already approved plans, including the adjustment to turbine placement, generating capacity, installation dates and pricing within the existing statutory limits.”
From the outset, officials with Worcester County Government and the Town of Ocean City have opposed the legislation, arguing the bill would increase the state’s subsidy to US Wind and increase the cost to ratepayers. Supporters, however, said the bill would allow offshore wind developers to overcome economic challenges and meet scheduling and pricing requirements set by state law.
A virtual hearing on US Wind’s revised project is now scheduled for Oct. 16, beginning at 6:30 p.m. The livestream can be found on the Maryland Public Service Commission’s YouTube Channel, and those wishing to speak must email kimberly.schock@maryland.gov by noon on Friday, Oct. 11. Participants will receive an email with a link to the online platform.
“In the first two offshore wind rounds (2017 and 2021), US Wind was awarded offshore wind renewable energy credits (ORECs) to support projects of more than 1,056 MW,” the notice reads. “In what is known as a Revised Round 2 proceeding, US Wind’s application seeks the authority for a 1,710 MW build-out of its entire federal lease area. 840 MW is proposed for OREC Round 1 and 870 MW is proposed for OREC Round 2. This new combined project increases the total capacity of US Wind’s Maryland offshore wind portfolio by more than 600 MW, and absorbs the capacity left over when, in January of this year, Skipjack Offshore Energy LLC relinquished the ORECs it had been awarded in the first two rounds.”
In addition to the virtual hearing, the Maryland Public Service Commission will accept written comments, which can be sent by mail, or electronically through the commission’s online portal, by Nov. 1. Mail can be addressed to Andrew Johnston, Executive Secretary, Maryland Public Service Commission, William Donald Schaefer Tower, 6 St. Paul Street, 16th Floor, Baltimore, MD 21202. All comments should reference Case No. 9666.
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Jump in ER, hospital costs result in 9% increase for medical plans, officials say
By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor
(Oct. 4, 2024) Resort leaders this week agreed to renew health benefits offered to city employees, but at a rate increase that will cost the town more than $797,000.
During Tuesday’s work session, Katie Callan, the city’s human resources director, and Joshua Weaver, senior financial analyst for Bolton, the agency that negotiates plans on the city’s behalf, came before the Mayor and Council with a request to renew Ocean City’s health plans for 2025. While the city’s insurance carrier, CareFirst, had presented a rate increase of more than 21%, officials say they were able to renegotiate that increase to just over 9%.
Callan noted that the rate change is the largest Ocean City has had in the last decade. She said the increase was driven by ER costs (up 27%), outpatient hospital costs (up 62%), and primary and specialist costs (up 50%).
“Also, the total amount spent by our members for all medical and pharmacy services increased, and our large
claimants – defined as those members who have claims in excess of $100,000 – also increased …,” she said. “Looking back over two years, you can see the number of large claimants increased from 10 to 14 and the cost of those claims increased from $1.84 million to about $2.75 million.”
Callan told officials that medical and drug claims per employee, per month, had increased more than 19%. When asked what was driving that increase, Weaver said it was a number of factors.
“I guess there’s one in particular that is a mental health patient and that’s been an ongoing large claim for a while. I know that they’re on a medication that is more expensive. That’s been one of the driving reasons,” he said. “Then also, the nature of large claimants is always at the very least somewhat random. And so you’ll see large fluctuations from year to year as well. But this has been the largest that we’ve seen over the past four or five years.”
Weaver said CareFirst had initially proposed a 21.7% increase in its medical, prescription and vision rates, but that Bolton had been successful in renegotiating that premium increase to 9.3%. As part of that process, he
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Continued from Page 13
said his company was also able to negotiate other fee increases, saving the city more than $100,000. However, he said he was recommending officials increase out-of-pocket maximums on the city’s HSA and PPO plans, which he said would help reduce the cost of the renewal increase.
“These changes will, however, have minimal impact on our members since very few members ever hit the out of pocket maximum,” Callan added, “less than 3%.”
Callan also highlighted a 5.3% renewal increase in the city’s dental plan, as well as increases in minimum deductible limits for employees on the HSA plan. After a lengthy presentation, she recommended the council renew its health plans with CareFirst, approve increases in out-of-pocket maximums for the city’s High Deductible Health Plan and PPO plan, and fully fund the High Deductible Health Plan deductible for participants, among other things.
Council Secretary Tony DeLuca, however, questioned if staff had sought out bids from other companies, such as Aetna or United. While Bolton had been successful in renegotiating the renewal increase with CareFirst, he argued another company could have presented a lower rate.
“Why didn’t you bid it out to anyone else?” he asked.
Callan said the city had issued a request for proposals in 2021 and that CareFirst had provided the most competitive rate. She added that the renewal rate proposed for the coming year continued to be lower than the national average of 9.7%
“That was a projection from earlier in the year, and in reality the national trend is much higher than that. It’s up into the double digits,” she said. “But I understand what you’re saying. We do need to bid the services periodically to make sure we have the best costs.”
With no further discussion, the council voted unanimously to approve the renewal recommendations.
By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor
(Oct. 4, 2024) Owners of manufactured homes are encouraged to attend a virtual meeting regarding ongoing insurance issues.
On Wednesday, Oct. 23, the Maryland Insurance Administration will hold a virtual hearing to gather public input on the lack of available insurance coverage for mobile homes in Worcester County and surrounding coastal areas. As part of the meeting, the administration is inviting insurance carriers to talk about the factors contributing to the issue and present possible solutions.
“We do have this on the radar,” Del. Wayne Hartman said in an interview this week.
In recent weeks, the Town of Ocean City and the Worcester County Commissioners have reached out to state representatives on behalf of local property owners struggling to secure insurance for their older manufactured homes. For some, the change has resulted in the loss of a home sale, as the buyer could not find a homeowners insurance policy required by the mortgage company. For others, it has resulted in dropped coverage.
From Ocean City’s Montego Bay community to Worcester County’s two campground subdivisions –White Horse Park and Assateague Pointe – officials say owners are struggling to find insurance. Hartman said the issue has since been presented to the Maryland Insurance Administration, which has agreed to hold a public hearing this month.
“We’ve started looking into the problem,” he said. “We had one constituent case where we worked with the Maryland Insurance Administration to get them help. We’re also working with the Town of Ocean City to make sure that homes classified as manufactured homes are actually that. Sometimes, they are stick-built and are classified as manufactured.”
Hartman said he has also been in contact with the Maryland Joint Insurance Association (MJIA), which he said offers coverage to property owners who are unable to obtain insurance elsewhere. He noted that the MJIA’s rules included a carveout for manufactured homes in Ocean City. However, the insurance association requires that the structures be built in compliance with the Southern Standard Building Code, which he said is no longer in use.
“If the property is in Ocean City, they will insure a manufactured home …,” he said. “What I’m asking the Maryland
speed, accidents would be designation goal
By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor
(Sept. 27, 2024) Officials will consider a special event zone for next year’s OC Bikefest event after a resort task force agreed this week to forward a favorable recommendation to the Mayor and Council.
While the Town of Ocean City has never enacted a special event zone for OC Bikefest, officials say they will now consider it after receiving several complaints from the public during this year’s motorcycle event. While acknowledging that police activity remained rather consistent this year, Ocean City Police Chief Ross Buzzuro told members of the Ocean City Motor Event Task Force Thursday that more could be done to improve public safety for future events.
“I think in the best interest of public safety moving forward we should strongly consider a special event zone, to at least lower a few speeds,” Buzzuro said. “If we can lower the number of accidents, it’s well worth it.”
Simply put, the special event zone – created in 2018 and improved in 2020 – allows the Town of Ocean
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tion to do is to amend MJIA’s policy to honor the Southern Building Code, as well as the International Building Code, which is the current code … They are telling me they can fix this administratively.”
In the meantime, the public is invited to attend Maryland Insurance Administration’s virtual hearing, which will be held Oct. 23 from 1011:30 a.m. To access the hearing, visit https://maryland-insurance.zoomgov.com/j/1611256331, or dial 646828-7666 and enter the meeting identification number, 161 125 6331. Those wishing to comment during the meeting can register by emailing listening.sessions@maryland.gov. Written comments will also be accepted at the same email address through Nov. 6.
“They are doing this through Zoom,” Hartman said. “I asked them to come down and take public comments live … If this is not well attended – for some it can be challenging to use Zoom – they will honor my request to hold one in person.”
City to reduce established speed limits and enhance penalties during the city’s motorized special events. The designation has been largely effective in curbing reckless and illegal driving and stopping the unsanctioned popup car rally that took over the resort in years past.
On Thursday, however, the city’s task force convened to discuss whether a special event zone was now needed for OC Bikefest. Several incidents during the event, including a hit-and-run incident that critically injured a local teen, resulted in community members calling on officials to implement the same designation it used during spring and fall Cruisin’ events.
“I know we had some perceived issues, but there were issues with Bikefest this year,” Mayor Rick Meehan said at the beginning of the task force meeting. “And I think it's important that we have the chief address them, address the event, and address what recommendations he has moving forward.”
For his part, Buzzuro said calls for service were nearly the same when compared to the 2023 bike event, and
that arrests and DUIs had even decreased. He noted that unlike other motorized events, Bikefest was relatively unproblematic.
“Basically 99% of those motorists that operate motorcycles are operating them properly,” he said. “So the problems that we have associated with some of the other motor events are virtually non-existent. They're in no way pervasive. At best they're sporadic.”
However, Buzzuro said there were some issues identified during this year’s motorcycle event. He said he was most concerned about the number of collisions, noise complaints and bike thefts that occurred, as well as the presence of large bike groups.
“I want you to understand that we have a criminal element that does come into town during bike week,” he said. “Outlaw bikers come from near and far.”
In terms of accidents, Buzzuro said 19 out of the 37 reported during the event were classified as serious. But he said most of those serious incidents were not the result of irresponsible or aggressive driving.
“Some of them, interestingly enough, were because of sun glare, or
they couldn’t stop their vehicle in time,” he explained.
He also highlighted the 11 motorcycle thefts that were reported during Bikefest, as well as the growing popularity of the yearly event. When asked about the criminal element associated with Bikefest, Buzzuro said the police department did monitor two biker groups in town for the event.
“I don't want to get into the specifics, but we have one or two groups,” he said. “I don't want to narrow it down, but the one that we've had to keep more of a close eye on, we did have a significant issue with them a couple of years ago. This group –and this is just one small facet of the total operation – but that's a group we keep a very, very close eye on, and that requires a number of officers to work in a plain-clothes capacity.”
Several attendees of Thursday’s task force meeting said they wanted to see the town implement a special event zone for future Bikefest events. After further discussion, the task force agreed to make a recommendation to the Mayor and Council that a special event zone be implemented for Bikefest in 2025.
By Brian Shane Staff Writer
(Oct. 4, 2024) Ines Salla came to the U.S. this summer from Bulgaria to work on a J-1 visa, both as a hotel clerk and a waitress. After a month on the job, when a young couple sat down in her restaurant section to order drinks, she carded them to make sure they were legal.
But the pair of diners at Trattoria Lombardi’s weren’t 21, and they weren’t ordinary restaurant-goers. They were planted by the police, as part of a routine compliance check to catch liquor licensees in the act of selling to minors.
“I failed to notice that their IDs were vertical,” Salla wrote in an apology to authorities, explaining she was overwhelmed and tired on the day.
“After taking their order, I was feeling unwell and went to the bathroom. When I returned, the report was already being filed by a man and the police were present.”
Lombardi’s was among a dozen establishments in Ocean City cited by Worcester County authorities for liquor license violations where police caught them selling to minors. The county’s oversight body, the Board of License Commissioners (BLC) ended up issuing $500 fines for each violation at its Sept. 16 meeting.
Such citations go hand-in-glove with the efforts of the Ocean City Police Department, who routinely employ underage cadets or proxies to attempt purchasing alcohol.
Officers send in the youths with legitimate identification that makes it clear that they’re not 21. These are vertical ID cards and come stamped with a notice of “under 21 until (date);” the state Department of Motor Vehicles only issues horizontal cards for those 21 or older.
Vertical IDs, which are not exclusive to Maryland, are problematic for liquor licensees.
Some restaurants said that any servers who field a vertical ID from a guest ordering alcohol must bring that ID to a manger on duty, and then the manager makes the call whether to serve them. Many of the restaurant managers and owners who testified at the BLC meeting in Snow Hill said, simply put, they do not accept vertical IDs as a matter of policy.
This is the case at the familyfriendly Lombardi’s, according to Kimberly Holloway, herself a 40-year employee. She said eagle-eyed managers are always keeping tabs on tables where alcohol is being served.
There even have been situations where families come to celebrate a 21st birthday – and management must refuse service because the kid has a vertical ID.
“And, unfortunately, they become upset,” she told the BLC at the citation hearing. “We explain, this is our solid policy, because of a problem we’ve had previous. We refuse service even when an entire family is sitting at a table.”
Being vigilant includes the latest technology. In addition to ID scanner devices, Lombardi’s servers use a mobile app to verify whether an ID is real, and to whom it belongs. The app is called V mos. With one snap of a smartphone camera, it will give the
correct name and date of birth associated with that ID.
“Because, all of our employees –whether we want them to or not –have the phone in their pocket, and they’re able to access that app and can scan an ID immediately,” Holloway said.
Notably, there were several J-1 students mentioned for failing to properly card underage restaurant guests among these police-led compliance checks.
At the Tipsy Taco, located at 8th Street and the Boardwalk, a J-1 food runner on June 20 decided to take on the duties of a server, and ended up serving alcohol to a minor.
“It was basically negligence on our part, for not being very close to them at the moment,” Tipsy Taco owner Franco Fidanza told the BLC. “We were right there, right in front of us, and he just went to serve it. No excuse, but of course, in their country you can drink at 15 years old. It’s a big challenge – language barrier, training barrier. It’s something we have to enforce, a lot of training.”
Fidanza owns the restaurant as a part of the Lankford Hotel. He also noted that the establishment had only been licensed for a month, and as a result, some employees had not gone through a legally required alcohol cer-
tification course. A specific electronic device used for checking drivers’ licenses was not yet on premises, and only had been ordered after this citation.
At Pizza Tugos on 116th Street, the server was a female J-1 from the Dominican Republic. On her very first day of work, she was shadowing another employee who was alcohol-certified. Both examined the ID card provided by the underage guest, and both thought it was okay, according to attorney Hugh Cropper for Pizza Tugos.
Tugos was fined $1,000 for two violations. The new store policy is, if servers are given a vertical ID, they have to run that by the manager on duty, Cropper noted.
“You do your best to make sure everybody adheres to the policy,” he said. “Apparently two employees who looked at this, they both adhered to the policy. They just didn’t do the math right.”
This J-1 student lost her job at Tugos and went off to apply for a job at Nick’s House of Ribs – which also happens to be owned by Pizza Tugos founder Scott Heise. When he spotted her at Nick’s, he fired her a second time, according to Cropper.
At Dead Freddie’s on 64th Street, a J-1 server provided alcohol to three
people at a table – two of them being female underage police cadets – despite already having been trained on alcohol service, according to the BLC hearing.
That server was fired on the spot and evicted, mid-season, from employee housing, according to liquor license holder Stephen Carullo. He told BLC members that this J-1 student also had signed a “promissory note,” stating he’d be responsible for paying any fine levied as a result of serving an underage guest.
Carullo also said Dead Freddies incentivizes fake ID collection by providing servers $25 for every fake ID they collect, and a $1,000 bonus for passing a compliance check with a cadet. “It’s about the fastest $1,000 you’re going to make doing the job,” he said.
He added that “we’re working on” a policy of automatic deportation with visa sponsorship companies, if any of his J-1 servers get caught serving to minors.
Other Ocean City establishments cited by the BLC at their Sept. 16 meeting for failing a summer 2024 compliance check – ones that did not involve J-1 students – included Late Night Liquor & Kegs, Leon’s at the Beach, Brothers Bistro, Bad Monkey, Jackspot, The Greene Turtle, and Guidos Burritos.
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By Brian Shane Staff Writer
(Oct. 4, 2024) Worcester County officials unanimously voted to renew the service contract for the medical provider at the county jail, even as that provider is a plaintiff named in a pending $5 million wrongful death lawsuit.
When asked during a public comment period at their Oct. 1 meeting whether they were aware of the lawsuit, or why the commissioners supported the contract renewal, only Commissioner Joe Mitrecic responded.
“Many lawsuits are filed for different reasons,” he said. “It doesn’t mean they’re substantiated. That’s all that we can really talk about here. Just because the lawsuit was filed doesn’t mean that it was substantiated. And they have done a good job for us over the years.”
Jennifer Albero of Delmar is the plaintiff in a federal lawsuit filed earlier this year. Her son Kyle Arthur, 36, took his own life in the jail on Sept. 10, 2021, after suffering the effects of opiate withdrawal. The complaint names Worcester County, Wellpath, and other individual medical providers and jail personnel as defendants.
Albero in the suit claims her son would not have hung himself in his cell had guards kept a closer watch on him
as being suicidal. The suit also alleges that Wellpath’s medical providers did not meet the standard of care for a prisoner in custody who is coming down from opioids. She is seeking $5 million in compensatory damages.
Kyle Arthur was on probation for prior burglary charges when he was arrested Sept. 9, 2021, for driving under the influence of drugs. Arthur was brought to the jail and did not survive 24 hours in police custody.
The lawsuit alleges that, according to video evidence, the guard who should have been making his rounds every 30 minutes instead only entered Arthur’s cell block three times during an eight-hour shift. That guard was the one who eventually found Arthur in a jail cell hanging from his bedsheets.
The lawsuit also claims when Arthur started to go into withdrawal, his heart started racing 160 beats per minute, and that medics offered only aspirin and motion sickness pills when they could have provided antiwithdrawal medication.
Defendants have responded with a motion to dismiss, saying in their rebuttal that jail workers are not liable because government employees doing their job are immune from prosecution.
The plaintiff’s most serious com-
plaint is that Wellpath failed to provide state-required withdrawal protocols, known as “medication-assisted treatment,” or MAT for short.
However, the defense in its most recent rebuttal is arguing that the government, not Wellpath, is responsible for funding, implementing, and overseeing MAT protocols, according to court documents.
Based in Nashville, Wellpath employs 15,000 people at more than 130 facilities in 37 states. On its website, Wellpath calls itself a “national leader in developing and offering MAT services to prevent and treat substance abuse disorder (SUD) … We aim to treat addition, change lives, break the cycle of recidivism, and heal communities.”
Tuesday’s contract renewal — the county has worked with Wellpath
since 2011 —was approved at the written request of Warden Tim Mulligan for $1.8 million. Mulligan attended Tuesday’s commissioners’ meeting to present the contract renewal as an agenda item.
When Commissioner President Chip Bertino called upon the contract renewal as an agenda item to be heard, he spent exactly 20 seconds to hear motions to approve and to guide the body to pass it – all before Mulligan had even made his way to the lectern to speak.
“Let’s do this, so we can get him out of here, and he can get back to work,” Bertino said, taking a motion to approve from Commissioner Caryn Abbot and a second from Commissioner Ted Elder. No further discussion ensued. The vote was unanimous.
emergency equipment.
(Oct. 4, 2024) A motorist driving three times the stated speed limit was arrested last week in Berlin for traffic violations as well as carrying a weapon as a felon.
Officers with the Berlin Police Department (BPD) observed a vehicle in the area of Route 50 and Route 346 shortly after midnight on Sept. 25 that appeared to be traveling above the posted speed limit. Officers were able to obtain a speed reading of 120 mph and attempted to stop the vehicle using their
According to the BPD press release, the vehicle disregarded the officer’s attempts to stop the vehicle and engaged in numerous traffic violations throughout the Town of Berlin and into Worcester County. Officers continued to follow the vehicle until it ran off the road in the area of Ironshire Station Road and Libertytown Road. The driver of the vehicle, who was later identified as Fredrick Lewis Strobel III, 27, of Berlin, fled on foot from the vehicle.
Officers were able to locate Strobel hiding in a wooded area after a search ensued and placed him under arrest. Multiple agencies assisted in the search for Strobel including the Maryland
State Police, Worcester County Sheriff’s Office, Maryland State Police Aviation and the Pocomoke City Police Department.
Along with 20 traffic violations, Stroblel was charged with possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, possession of a rifle by a convicted felon, possession of ammunition by a convicted felon, illegal possession of a regulated firearm, possession of a rifle by a disqualified person, possession of CDS with a firearm, possession of CDS - not cannabis, possession of CDS paraphernalia and resisting arrest.
Strobel is currently being held without bond at the Worcester County Detention Center.
State, defense continue to negotiate in neglect case
By Bethany Hooper Associate Editor
(Oct. 4, 2024) Plea negotiations are underway for a former childcare worker charged with neglect and failure to report child abuse following an investigation into an infant classroom at the Berlin Activities Depot.
While a jury trial was scheduled to start Wednesday, a circuit court judge earlier this week granted a motion to postpone proceedings in the case against Catherine Deutsch, 32, of Ocean Pines, who was arrested earlier this summer on 11 charges of failure to report child abuse/neglect and four charges of neglect of a minor stemming from a child abuse investigation at the Berlin daycare center. In her motion to the court, Worcester County Assistant State’s Attorney Pam Correa noted that “the parties are engaging in plea negotiations and have arranged additional proffer sessions in order to reach an agreement.”
Last November, the Worcester County Sheriff’s Office launched an investigation into the Berlin Activities Depot after law enforcement and Child Protective Services were notified of an eight-month-old who had been admitted to Atlantic General Hospital with a broken tibia. The sheriff’s office alleged that video footage of the infant classroom revealed Heather Ward, 40, of Berlin, had caused the child’s injuries and showed other concerning interactions with several other infants under her supervision.
As a result, a grand jury in March indicted Ward on 90 charges, including 10 felony counts of child abuse and 80 misdemeanor counts of second-degree assault. And in June, Deutsch, who worked alongside Ward in the infant classroom, was arrested on 15 misdemeanor charges. Ward now awaits sentencing after entering an Alford plea to nine misdemeanor counts of second-degree assault. In her motion this week, Correa acknowledged plea negotiations are also moving forward in Deutsch’s case.
Deutsch’s trial has been rescheduled to Nov. 12-13.
(Oct. 3, 2024) Main Street America has announced Berlin Main Street as a 2025 Great American Main Street Award (GAMSA) semifinalist. This prestigious award is the nation’s top award recognizing communities for their excellence in comprehensive preservationbased commercial district revitalization.
A jury of professionals and leaders in the fields of community and economic development and historic preservation convened to review a nationwide pool of applicants. After thoughtful deliberation, the jury unanimously selected eight semifinalists that demonstrate exemplary use of the Main Street Approach™ to lead community-based transformation strategies in their downtowns.
Along with Berlin, the other semifinalists are from Denison, Texas, Easton,Pennsylvania, Farmington, Michigan, Jefferson, Iowa, Raton, New Mexico, Vicksburg, Mississippi and Wytheville, Virginia.
“I am honored to congratulate the eight Main Street organizations as 2025 Great American Main Street Award semifinalists and to celebrate their incredible accomplishments,” said Main Street America President and CEO Erin Barnes. “This year’s semifinalists demonstrate exceptional achievements in reenergizing their downtowns through inclusive, collaborative organizing and innovative economic development, arts and culture, and historic preservation initiatives.”
Collectively, the 2025 GAMSA semifinalists have generated over $695 million in local reinvestment, helped open 975 net new businesses, facilitated the creation of 7,190 net new jobs, catalyzed the rehabilitation of 1,568 historic buildings, and leveraged 333,050 volunteer hours.
“We couldn’t be more thrilled to announce that our Main Street program has been recognized as one of the top eight in the entire country. Being a semi-finalist for this award is a testament to our businesses, volunteers and the amazing support we receive from our Mayor and Council,” said Ivy Wells, director of Economic and Community Development for Berlin.
“This recognition highlights the dedication of our Economic and Community Development team, town employees, local businesses, volunteers, and the residents who make our Main Street vibrant. Their commitment to fostering a thriving downtown is what sets Berlin apart, and this achievement belongs to all of us. Together, we’ve built something truly special, and it is an honor to have Berlin’s hard work recognized at the national level,” said Berlin Mayor Zack Tyndall.
The 2025 Great American Main Street Award ceremony will be held in Philadelphia, on April 7, 2025, where three semifinalists will be recognized as
(Oct. 4, 2024) Celebrate maritime history during Harbor Day at the Docks on Saturday, Oct. 12, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. This free, family-friendly festival will take place along Sunset Avenue in the West Ocean City commercial harbor.
Complimentary bus service will be available to shuttle patrons to and from the OC Park n’ Ride to the event parking lot.
“Harbor Day at the Docks is such a unique Maryland’s Coast event,” Recreation and Parks Director Kelly Rados said. “It allows the opportunity to not only celebrate our maritime history but to educate attendees and bring some recognition to all things marine and coastal through demonstrations, activities, vendors and the food.”
Festivities kick off at 10 a.m. with the
Blessing of the Fleet, followed by live musical performances by the Funsters, and the Jimmy Charles Band will be taking the stage at noon. At 2:45pm a crab cake eating contest will take place on the main stage, and participation is available on a first-come, first-served basis where you can test your competitive eating skills against Jimmy Charles himself.
Other activities will include local fisherman displays, vendor demonstrations, nautical artisans, educational exhibits, and activities galore for children.
There will be plenty of vendors selling scrumptious foods and refreshing beverages with a special brew, Harbor Daze from Burley Oak brewing company. The Coast Guard will provide on-site water safety information and Coast Guard boat tours.
By Tara Fischer Staff Writer
an individual in tennis are $295, $200 for platform, and $200 for pickleball.
(Oct. 3, 2024) Officials from the Ocean Pines Racquet Sports Center are proposing a two-sport membership option.
The OPA facility offers tennis, pickleball, and platform tennis.
At a Wednesday, Sept. 25 OPA Budget and Finance Committee meeting, representatives Karen Kaplan, the president of the platform tennis club, and Donna Frankowski, the pickleball club secretary, presented their proposal for altering the racquet center’s fee structure by adding twosport membership options to be considered for next year’s budget.
Currently, racquet participants may purchase a single-sport membership for either pickleball, tennis or platform tennis or an umbrella three-sport fee structure and choose the family or individual package within those options.
Players who wield their paddles for two sports have few options under this structure. They can purchase the individual combination three-sport membership for $440 or pay for two packages, which may be cheaper or more expensive than the umbrella deal, depending on the sports. Ocean Pines resident membership rates for
Currently, the three-sport combo option for an individual gives residents a discount of 36.6% off the total price of purchasing all three sports packages separately. If approved, the proposed twosport categories, which Kaplan described as pickleball plus tennis, tennis plus platform tennis, and pickleball plus platform tennis, would offer a 25% discount.
Racquet leaders hope introducing new options at a lower price will encourage participants who focus on one sport but are interested in a second game to increase their membership. While Budget and Finance Committee Chair Doug Parks argued that in this case, individuals may bite the bullet and purchase the three-sport deal, resulting in additional revenue for the association, Frankwoski maintained that might not be financially sound for everyone.
For instance, to play pickleball and platform tennis, individuals would have to pay for the two memberships separately, at $200 each, or get the three-sport at $440. The representatives argue that a discount like the three-sport combo package should be applied to two-sport rates.
“I have people that say, ‘Come and join the platform tennis,’ and I have not
tried it yet, but I do know there are a lot of two-sport players, tennis and pickleball is one, and pickleball and platform is the other,” Frankowski said. “I looked at this and thought, ‘Well, if I play platform, I could get a platform membership, and it is the same as pickleball.’ I also realized that a three-sport membership is $440. For me to play two sports, that umbrella, the three-sport, would not be an option for me because I would be paying more…If I wanted to try the platform, I would have to pay another $200, so I would be less inclined to, but if there is an incentive, like a 25% discount, that is worth it to give it a try for a year and if I don’t play all the time that is okay because I am not spending as much.”
The presenters believe the twosport options would yield more memberships than the umbrella package.
According to Kaplan, 92% of the 455 current racquet center memberships fall under the single-sport category. Only 35, or 8% of paying participants, opted for the three-sport option.
The platform president also maintained that not all of those 35 memberships are taking advantage of the full package benefits.
“I have access to the membership list and the three-sport combo membership list; at least 10 of those members or memberships are not playing three sports,” she said. “They are paying for the three-sport option but
only focusing on one or two sports.”
She noted adding a two-sport deal would encourage more people to scale back from the three-sport package to the middle tier or the singlegame purchasers to up their membership to try out a new game. The hope is the change will increase paying racquet participants.
During the fiscal year 2025 budget process, the OPA Board of Directors voted to do away with the single membership options and only offer the three-sport deal. The racquet center community pushed against this move, and at a Feb. 29 special meeting, the neighborhood’s governing body agreed to reinstate the individual choices and include the full package.
The racquet representatives only offered a proposal for individual twosport memberships at the Sept. 25 meeting. However, Kaplan intends to present a similar draft for a two-sport family package to the finance committee before the budget process begins.
Parks noted the racquet center is “in the black” this year and is hesitant to change anything. Still, the committee was receptive. The group asked Kaplan and Frankowski to survey members to determine if the twosport memberships was feasible.
“I think it is going to be chance,” Parks said. “… From an offerings perspective, I think it could be considered.”
By Tara Fischer Staff Writer
(Oct. 3, 2024) A new plant nursery has opened in Berlin.
String and Petals Nursery, a gardening venture located at 9040 Worcester Highway (Route 113), officially welcomed flora enthusiasts on Saturday, Sept. 14. The shop will be open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday and is closed on Mondays.
With autumn in full spring, owner Stephanie Graves said the nursery currently has fall offerings like mums, pansies, pumpkins, perennials, plants returning each year, and pollinators.
“Perennials and pollinators are what I started with,” Graves said. “I love pollinator gardens, so I was just looking for anything that attracted pollinators, like dianthus and Russian sage … That is a lot of what I have right now, many perennials that attract pollinators. When we came out here and started working and putting everything together, there was not a pollinator in sight. I did not see a bee or a butterfly. But as soon as the truck arrived, within 30 minutes, butterflies and bees were everywhere. I want to bring that to everybody’s yard.”
Graves said she is considering the plant site’s “grand opening” next spring. As the gardening industry
slows down this time of year, she is using the lull to set everything up and iron out new business kinks so they can hit the ground running come April.
For instance, the shop’s on-site building is being completed and is awaiting electricity.
“It took longer to get a building permit than I thought. Then our building was supposed to arrive a couple of weeks ago and would be late. Then it just showed up one day,” Graves said. “… There are all these steps that I wanted to work through now, so everything will be done in the spring.”
Strings and Petals Nursery intends to remain open through December. In the lead-up to the holiday season, the flora store will sell Christmas trees and wreaths and close as the festive supplies run out.
Inventory will grow in January, February and March on a small plot of land in Bishopville, provided by a couple Graves met at the Ocean Pines Farmers’ and Artisans’ Market. The nursery will then reopen for the spring in April. During this season, the owner said she would like to prioritize shade plants. She also hopes to eventually introduce a ‘cut your own flower garden’ where customers can come in and choose from different cup sizes to fill with the vegetation.
Graves is originally from Birmingham, Alabama. She attended the University of Maryland, where she met her husband. After a few moves throughout the two states, the pair finally settled on the Eastern Shore in December 2023.
The nursery owner, who has a professional background in training and development, has been gardening for the past 10 years.
“My dream has been to make my everyday job plants,” she said. “…We had moved here, and I had been saying that I wanted to open a nursery, but it seemed like such a big undertaking. It did not seem like something I could possibly do.”
After striking inspiration from YouTuber the Savvy Dirt Farmer, Graves started off small. She began selling at the Ocean Pines Farmers’ and Artisans’ Market, the market at Windmill Creek, and a small flea market at the Uptown Emporium parking lot earlier this year.
“I could not have done this without the community,” Graves said.
The owner is also excited about the connections this job will foster with other Worcester County residents and visitors.
“I have people that come in that are super experienced and teach me things, and I love learning,” she said. “And then I love teaching others. We have people that come in and say, ‘I kill everything I
plant.’ So, then we have a conversation about the soil they have. Do they have sun? Do you have shade? Some of us underwater or overwater. I try to help them find something that works for them.”
Graves said she hopes to one day launch area-wide events to unite the county.
“Right now, I am just trying to get everything started, but in a couple of years, I want to see what I can do for the community instead of what the community can do for me,” she said.
Strings and Petals Nursery also sells crocheted creations, as Graves makes yarn flowers and succulents, which she
said have been a big hit. The gardener will also be at the Wool and Fiber Expo at the Ocean City Convention Center the weekend of Jan. 17 to teach a few classes on the needlework activity.
The business venture was one of passion for Graves.
“I have always looked forward to the little things in life,” she said. “… I do not feel like the big things in life are always the most important. The best things are the tiny moments that add up, and that is what I love about gardening. All those tiny moments, seeing things grow and change year to year as your garden changes.
By Tara Fischer Staff Writer
(Oct. 4, 2024) Test scores released last month reveal that Worcester County Public Schools are outperforming systems across the state.
On Tuesday, Sept. 17, Coordinator of Research and Student Information Tom Hamill gave an in-depth presentation to the Worcester County Board of Education regarding statewide performance data on English Language Arts (ELA) and mathematics assessments administered in spring 2024.
The Maryland Comprehensive Assessment Program (MCAP) scores released by the Maryland State Department of Education showed Worcester County Public Schools at the top in both content areas.
In ELA, WCPS had the highest proficiency level of all state school systems,
with 69.4% of students receiving passing marks, a three or a four, in the 2024 spring exams. This is 21 percentage points higher than the state average of 48.4%.
Hamill broke the data down even further. Fourth-grade ELA saw a 10.16% increase in passing scores from 2022, when 62.5% reached proficiency, to 2024, when that figure rose to 72.69%. Sixthgrade ELA also saw a dramatic rise from two years ago, when 60.4% of the young learners reached a three or four on the assessment, to this year, when 72.59% met grade-level standards.
While most grade levels have improved, ELA eight and ten saw a nominal decrease in scores from 2022. The former fell from 69.2% to 68.32%, while the latter dipped from 71% to 70.43%.
Hamill also notes that fifth-grade ELA remains an outlier. In Worcester County,
the MCAP indicated that only 56.48% of students in grade five demonstrated proficiency. The other grade levels, however, all showed nearly 70% pass rates.
“For the most part, for ELA, we are near 70% proficiency in all but grade five,” he said. “You’ll see that fifth grade is a statewide, maybe national, concern.”
In math, Worcester’s scores, 39.3% of students performing at proficiency or above on the assessments, earned them the second-place slot behind Howard County, whose pass rates came in at 41.1%. The Maryland average in this category was 24.1%.
All grade levels in this category improved from 2022. For instance, math four rose from 42.4% to 57.37%, and math six increased from 23.4% to 36.72%.
Stephen Decatur Middle School had the highest math eight scores in the state
out of about 800 schools, Hamill said, with nearly 56% of its eighth-grade students receiving proficient marks in the assessments.
“One thing I would like to point out is when we get into math six, seven, and eight, there is a downward trend in proficiency rates at the state level, one that we are not experiencing. One that we are overcoming,” Hamill added. “As a district, we are bouncing back from that fifth-grade inflection point.”
According to Hamill, to grade the MCAP exams, the state determines the difficulty of the questions and examines how each student performed on each one to create a scale score.
“So, in practicality, you might be looking at a test with 50 questions, a student getting 20 questions right, and that is translated into them passing, depending on how the test works out,” Hamill said.
“With the MCAP, the math side, in particular, is all computer-adapted at this point. What is happening is the students answer a question; if they get it right, the next question is supposed to be a little harder, and if they get that one right, the next one is a little bit harder, and if they get that one wrong, it goes back a little bit. It uses that to figure out where that student is in terms of a score.”
To better understand student performance, WCPS officials examine how its internal metrics, such as grades from iReady assessments, compare with the MCAP marks.
iReady is a personalized online learning program for reading and mathematics that allows teachers to determine their students’ needs. In math and ELA, kids in grades three through eight are given assessments through the platform three times a year.
“From that, we are able to get a sense for when kids are on grade level or not on grade level and may need additional support,” Hamill said.
However, math scores from the iReady and the MCAP exams deviate when compared.
Looking at the winter iReady assessment, which happens roughly a month before MCAP, the research and student information coordinator said that nearly 60% of math five students demonstrated
nearly or mid-grade level. However, this translated into only 43% of an MCAP pass rate.
Math six iReady scores came in at 55%, which dipped to 35.46% on the MCAP, and math seven’s 52% proficiency rate on the winter preliminary assessment fell to 39.53% on the spring exam.
Still, Worcester County’s test scores came out on top, even on a question-byquestion basis. Looking at problems one through 49 of an assessment provided by the state, ranked from easiest to most difficult, Hamill presented a graph to the board that compared the percentage of students throughout Maryland and at the county level that answered each inquiry correctly.
In almost every case, the percentage of Worcester test-takers who got each question right was higher than the state percentage.
“Even when talking about the really difficult questions…our students are still outperforming the state on those really difficult questions,” Hamill said.
Based on Worcester’s economically disadvantaged rate, the anticipated level of proficiency is around 50%. However, for third-grade reading, for example, more than 70% of students are at a passing rate based on MCAP scores.
Hamill references Pocomoke Elementary School, which he defines as an “extreme outlier”, and compares their performance to if the Stephen Decatur
High School football team was to beat the University of Maryland Terps.
“You would expect the Terps to win,” he said. “They have a lot of advantages… you would expect by nature of those advantages that they have to succeed. If SDHS could beat on the Terps, it would be noteworthy…so when I point out a school like PES, that is what I think of… somehow this county has managed to make it to that poverty is not prophecy.”
WCPS Superintendent Lou Taylor said he attendeda superintendent meeting shortly after the scores came out, where roughly six other school system leaders asked him about Worcester’s key to success.
“The secret sauce,” he maintained, is the depth of their educational strategies, which the system continues to adapt, and the attention to the individual student. The transition from looking at the class as a whole to breaking it down to each learner, he said, began under former superintendent Dr. Jon Andes, who was appointed to the role in 1996 and served for 16 years, and currently acts on the Worcester County Board of Education.
“We are constantly looking at individual student achievement and making determinations at the classroom and school level of what services we can localize to move that student forward,” Andes said. “It does not matter if the student is proficient or wherever they happen to be. We are going to work … we are hungry to make a difference.”
• 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 vanishingoc.com. Visit the website for further information and photos.
Worcester Prep Head of School Dr. John McDonald has announced James Haley, Lydia Schwartz and Allen Zhang have been named Commended Students in the 2025 National Merit Scholarship Program. Commended Students placed among the top 50,000 students who entered the 2025 competition by taking the 2023 Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test. Pictured, from left, are Head of Upper School Carol Evans, Schwartz, Haley, Zhang and McDonald.
(Oct. 3, 2024) There will be a ribbon cutting event for the unveiling of a new Storybook Walk on Sunday, Oct. 13, 11 a.m. at Ocean City’s newly renovated downtown Bayside Park located on 3rd Street.
What started as an idea to further promote local stewardship and awareness surrounding trash clean ups, has metamorphosed into a multi-partner endeavor to bring a story to life. Maryland Coastal Bays Program, in collaboration with the Town of Ocean City, Plak That, 1% for the Planet, and Di angelo Publications, has implemented a Storybook Walk for the locally authored “Keep Our Beaches Clean! What If Everybody Did That?” at the newly renovated Bayside Park at 3rd Street in downtown Ocean City.
Storybook Walks typically feature large scale pages of a book chronologically placed along a trail, or, in this case, a bayside boardwalk. This specific walk spotlights, “Keep Our Beaches Clean! What If Everybody Did That?”, a book written by an inspiring class of Showell Elementary School second graders in collaboration with professional surfer Kelly Slater. The book was released this past spring by Di angelo Publications. Mackenzie Keyser, the facilitating teacher from Showell Elementary said, “the students and I are so thrilled, and honored, to have ‘Keep Our Beaches Clean! What If Everybody Did That?’ made into a Storybook Walk! Our hopes are that through this extension of the book, children from all over will be eager to help do their part to keep our beaches clean.”
As they approach the Storybook Walk, visitors will encounter a panel that outlines how to use the walk. As they continue, readers will embark on a story about how the choices we make can impact the beach and the critters that live there. It ends with a panel that includes a QR code that links to more resources such as a lesson plan that compliments the book. These panels were created with ideas from all the partners and brought to life by local graphic designer Mark Huey. The event will feature guest speakers, including Keyser, an official ribbon cutting, and a book signing by the student authors themselves. There will be books on site for purchase from Coastal Bays, or attendees can bring their own to get signed. For more information contact Liz Wist at the Maryland Coastal Bays Program at lwist@mdcoastalbays.org.
charming Colonial home features built-in seating at the front stoop, brick walkways, picket fencing, lamp post & long driveway. The exterior was fully painted, water heater, front-loading washer and all windows were replaced in 2023, a new roof in 2015. Includes a beautiful brick wood-burning fireplace, an island in the kitchen, & LVP flooring. Plenty of outdoor space on the 13x10 screened porch, or in the rear yard with shed. Located on a lovely cul-de-sac street!
a look at this comfortably sized 1-level home with Brand new carpeting, vinyl plank flooring & driveway gravel. Sellers have replaced the flex duct, insulation, & vapor barrier. Nicely sized rooms, crown molding, breakfast bar, bow window & pull-down attic storage. A concrete walkway surrounds tasteful landscaping and leads to a 20x10 screened porch, storage shed and cleared rear yard. $324,900
(Oct. 3, 2024) Taylor Bank officials were recently joined by community members for a groundbreaking ceremony to celebrate the commencement of construction of Taylor Bank’s newest branch in Cape Charles.
The Cape Charles branch will constitute the bank’s 12th full-service branch location, along with its recently established Loan Production Office in Salisbury.
Across from the Cape Charles Harbor and just a few blocks from the Cape Charles beachfront, the new branch will
be centrally located in the Cape Charles Main Street business district.
“We’re proud of our commitment to serve local communities since 1890 and are thrilled to join the Cape Charles community,” Raymond M. Thompson, president and CEO of Taylor Bank, said. “We look forward to continued success as we serve and support our valued customers in Cape Charles and the neighboring Northampton County, building strong relationships and supporting the community every step of the way.”
(Oct. 4, 2024) The Art League of Ocean City has announced a new building-wide art show at the Ocean City Center for the Arts with the theme “The Red Thread: The Common Thread of Connection Through Art,” curated by Deborah Rolig of Berlin. The opening is First Friday, Oct. 4 and features extended hours from 5-8 p.m.
The public is invited to attend this free event on 94th Street bayside with refreshments sponsored by PKS Investments and complimentary hors d’oeuvres. The Saltare in Elementis Dance Collective will perform during the First Friday opening party.
“The Red Thread holds significance in many cultures, all sharing the same basic theme – connectivity,” Rolig said. “In this building-wide show, artists share their own interpretations of the Red Thread that flows through us and intertwines with others to weave the scarlet tapestry of lives. We invite the public to wear red or a red rose to the First Friday opening to show their connection to others.”
Exhibiting artists in the Thaler Gallery are Rolig, Dee Gray, Seth Apter, Heather Bailey, Beth Deeley, Janice Elder, Raye-Valion Gillette, Garry Moore, Brian Robertson, and Twisted Stitchers. The Sisson Galleria hosts an all-media group show interpreting the Red Thread theme, and the Art League will award cash prizes to the winners.
The Spotlight Gallery will exhibit student artwork created during after-school art clubs at Buckingham Elementary and Berlin Intermediate Schools. Studio E presents the Community Weaving Project led by fiber artist Deeley. Rolig will present her jewelry creations in the Artisan Showcase.
Special “Red Thread” events continue throughout the month. A free Yoga and Sound Healing Workshop with Chrissy Ehrhart and Jared Rowan is on Oct. 8, 68 p.m. Dr. Judy Pierson presents a free discussion, “The Weave is Strong: The Power of Connection,” on Oct. 10, 6-8 p.m. Nancy Mitchell leads the “Muse to Muse: Ekphrastic Creative Writing Deep Dive Retreat and Reading” on Oct. 13, 14 p.m.
by Steve Green
guilty pleasure of mine continues to be reading the website, raisingteenstoday.com. This fun little nugget popped up this week.
It was a listing, titled Things No One Tells You About Raising Teenagers.
1. You’ll go broke paying for groceries, braces, car insurance and new cell phones
2. That your teen’s favorite responses will be, “I’ll do it later,” “I’m too tired,” “oh … I forgot,” and “Good.”
3. That you’ll start missing them long before they move out.
4. That they’ll be too freaking tired to do anything during the day, but too wired to sleep at night.
5. You’ll spend 86% of your time driving them and their friends to Timbuktu.
6. That they’ll develop a major hoodie and foodie obsession.
7. That your mere existence could annoy or embarrass them.
8. That you can’t you use proper punctuation when texting them or they’ll think you’re nagging or being salty.
9. How sweet, funny and kind they are … when they want to be.
10. That even though they drive you bonkers at times, one day you’ll wake up and realize they’re one of your very best friends.
I have some more to add to the list, so here goes.
11. The answer is always “yes,” to is your room clean, but the reality is always far different until coercion.
12. No matter how exhausted, they refuse to go to bed early in the summertime because they do not have school.
13. Showering immediately after working out and getting off a shift at a restaurant is out of the question.
14. Despite the rude treatment given to parents, you will hear constantly how well-mannered and polite they are to other people.
15. Cursing one time around them will result in them thinking they have full license to do so anytime. This, I heard from a friend.
16. Under absolutely no circumstances will they ever stand next to you at a concert. You may even see them standing by themselves across the way.
17. A surefire way to get teens and their friends out of the pool is to lay on a lounge chair nearby.
18. Discrimination is rampant when it comes to vegetables.
19. When talk of leaving the house comes around, it’s best to ask a simple question: ‘are you ready to walk out the door right now?’ If the answer is yes, don’t believe it.
20. Normal times to eat breakfast, lunch and dinner are not important.
21. Some conversations take a turn to the ugly without any warning.
22. Silence should not be reason for concern.
23. When they are looking at their phones, there’s no reason to try and start a conversation.
24. A breath test will truly determine if the teeth have been brushed.
25. They will not want their pictures taken now, but they will later be glad to see how much they have changed over time.
26. Boy/girl teen relationships are complicated and can change drastically from morning to night.
27. Phone calls are the fastest way to get a hold of them, followed by text messages. Most teens don’t know how to reply to an email evidently.
28. They are far more likely to try a new food for a stranger.
29. You can never be prepared for exactly how uncool they can make you feel.
30. Rides to and from wherever they want to go are more expected than appreciated.
31. They hide their love.
32. Teen siblings will pummel each other for no reason at all, but will stand up for each other no matter.
33. Showers will average about 10 minutes depending on the level of their perceived exhaustion.
34. Taking an Uber alone is a goal, but not paying for it.
35. Manual labor around the yard is expected to be rewarded.
36. Knocking and waiting a few seconds before opening a closed door is best for all.
37. Relaxing at home involves pajama pants and no shirt.
38. Giving advice is a surefire way to get the opposite choice chosen.
39. If let on their own, packing for a trip will only involve clothes for one day.
40. Nine times out of 10 you will just do it after getting so tired of waiting for the clothes in the dryer to get folded.
41. Clothes will disappear every single day.
42. Biking somewhere is always cooler than walking.
43. Always empty pockets from their clothes because there could be surprises.
44. It’s more likely than not they will not flush the toilet.
(The writer is the executive editor of OC Today-Dispatch. He and his wife, Pamela, are proud parents of two boys. This weekly column examines their transition into parenthood and all that goes along with it. E-mail any thoughts to editor@mdcoastdispatch.com.)
By Dave Dalkiewicz Contributing Writer
(Oct. 4, 2024) Despite October being an Autumn month, there will still be plenty of warm comfortable days, enough to make it easy to hang out on the beach. This, coupled with ocean temperatures hovering around 70, will make going for a swim still easily doable. There are no surfing restrictions at this time of the year so surfing is allowed at any time. Surfers can also act as unofficial lifeguards, especially due to the Ocean City Beach Patrol ending its “season” Sunday, Sept. 22.
Surfers can play an important role in aiding a swimmer in trouble. Surfboards are excellent floatation devices and most surfers are, at least, more than adequate swimmers Many surfers have tales of helping a distressed swimmer.
During the season, the “unofficial lifeguard” issue was certainly a factor in the before 10 a.m. and after 5:30 p.m. time slots. Within those hours, the beach patrol was on duty with no surfing allowed except for the two rotating beaches and an area downtown, between the pier and the north inlet jetty, on weekdays. Please remember that the idea of surfers as lifeguards is unofficial. Surfers may be able to assist a swimmer or fellow wave rider in trouble but there is no sanction by the Town of Ocean City. Basicall, the ocean and beach are wide open and anyone capable should be willing to assist a fellow ocean goer in need of help, or at least place a 911 call.
The autumn has been labeled as one of the area’s shoulder seasons and can easily be considered the best one by residents or visitors. Whether the activity is in the ocean or otherwise, hopefully one can take the time to savor all it has to offer.
— Dave Dalkiewicz is the owner of Ocean Atlantic Surf Shop in Ocean City
By Steve Green
Relaxing at home after a music festival
Birds following a tractor in a field
A hot shower on a cold morning
Cruising through the West Ocean City lights
Wings and football Sundays at home
Warm soccer games in October
Kids in Ravens jerseys
My son’s love of steamed shrimp
The temperature swings of fall
Remembering naps with my kids
A weed-less flower bed (for a day or two)
The Stowaway Motel was built by Bill Carrier in 1956 and occupied the entire ocean block between 21st and 22nd streets. It was the largest motel in Ocean City in the 1960s with 120 units spread throughout three sections. Home to the biggest pool on Motel Row (local kids would sneak into swim in the summer) and the famous Hide-A-Way Lounge, the Stowaway was a popular place for 30 years.
The Stowaway Motel was torn down following the 1995 season and was replaced after several long construction delays by the 12story Grand Hotel in 2001.
To purchase one of Bunk Mann’s books, click over to www.vanishingoc.com. Postcard from Bunk Mann’s collection
SUBMITTED PHOTOS/OC TODAY-DISPATCH
The Believe In Tomorrow Foundation hosted its annual Beach Bash last month at Seacrets, featuring numerous drawings and food provided by more than a dozen local restaurants. Hundreds of individuals turned out to support the nonprofit at one of the fundraising highlights of the fall season. Above left, from left, are volunteers Gene Ringsdorf, Judy
Norm Disney, Maureen McGorry and Bernie McGorry. Above right are Amanda Koontz, foundation program advancement associate, and Mary
BLU CRAB HOUSE COURTYARD
410-289-3322
24th Street & Coastal Hwy.
Thurs., Oct. 10: Kevin Poole
BUXY’S SALTY DOG & DRY DOCK 28
410-289-BUXY
28th Street Coastal Hwy.
Sat., Oct. 5: TBA
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., Oct. 4: Endless Ember & Fil Rhythm
Sat., Oct. 5: DJ Connair & Silver Heart
Sun., Oct. 6: Pistol Whipped
COCONUTS BEACH BAR
410-289-6846
Oceanfront At Castle
In The Sand Hotel
37th & 38th Streets
Fri., Oct. 4: Darin Engh & Monkee Paw
Sat., Oct. 5:
Chris Diller Duo & Kevin Poole & Joe Mama
Sun., Oct. 6: Aaron Howell Duo & Colossal Fossil Sauce
Thurs., Oct. 10: On The Edge
COINS PUB
410-289-3100
28th Street Plaza
On Coastal Hwy.
Fri., Oct. 4:
Shortcut Sunny
Sat., Oct. 4: DJ Giddy Up & First Class
CRABCAKE
FACTORY BAYSIDE
302-988-5000
37314 Lighthouse Rd., Rte. 54, Selbyville, DE
Fri., Oct. 4: Jack Bannon
Wed., Oct. 9: Fil Rhythm
CRAWL STREET TAVERN
443-373-2756
Wicomico St., Downtown O.C.
Fri., Oct. 4:
No More Whiskey
Sat., Oct. 5:
Fuzzbox Piranha
THE DUNEHOUNDS
Pickles Pub: Saturday, October 5
SCHIZOPHRENIC BOOGIEMEN
The Wedge: Sunday, October 6
MAKING WAVES
Fager’s Island: Saturday, October 5
OPPOSITE DIRECTIONS
Harborside: Sunday, October 6
Fager’s Island: Monday, October 7
FULL CIRCLE DUO
Seacrets: Thursday, October 10
CECILIA’S FALL
Harborside: Saturday, October 5
FAGER’S ISLAND
410-524-5500
60th St., In The Bay Fri., Oct. 4:
Denium N Lace, The All Star Band & DJ RobCee
Sat., Oct. 5: Making Waves, The Loop & DJ Groove Mon., Oct. 7:
Opposite Directions Band & DJ RobCee
GREENE TURTLE WEST
410-213-1500
Route 611, West OC Sat., Oct. 4: TBA
HARBORSIDE 410-213-1846
South Harbor Rd., West End O.C.
Fri., Oct. 4: DJ Billy T Sat., Oct. 5:
Cecilia’s Fall & DJ Bigler Sun., Oct. 6:
Opposite Directions
Wed., Oct. 9: DJ Billy T
Thursdays: Dust N Bones
PICKLES PUB
410-289-4891
8th St. & Philadelphia Ave.
Fridays: Beats By DeoGee
Saturday, Oct. 5: The Dunehounds
Sunday, Oct. 6: Beats By Styler
Mondays: Karaoke w/ Wood
Tuesdays: Beats By Wood Wednesdays: Beats By Styler Thursdays: Beats By DeoGee
PURPLE MOOSE SALOON
410-289-6953
Between Caroline & Talbot Sts. On The Boards Fri., Oct. 4: Mark Bray & The Saltwater Cowboys Sat., Oct. 5: Dwayne Wilson
SEACRETS
410-524-4900
49th St. & Coastal Hwy. Fri., Oct. 4: DJ Flight, Element K Duo & Red Dirt Revolution
Sat., Oct. 5: DJ E-State, DJ Cruz, DJ C-Miller, Faith Noel, Late Last Night & Turn The Tide
Thurs., Oct. 10: Full Circle & DJ Connair
THE WEDGE
410-289-5121
806 S. Atlantic Ave. Sun., Oct. 6: Schizophrenic Boogiemen
Thurs., Oct. 10: Jack Worthington
The American Association of School Librarians (AASL) formally commends the Worcester County Public Schools Media Expo, approving a resolution made by the Maryland Association of School Librarians (MASL), an AASL Chapter.
AASL annually recognizes outstanding programs, events, and products nominated by AASL Chapters for their support of the school librarian profession and the learners the profession serves.
The expo is facilitated by school librarians to celebrate students’ use of media and technology to meet educational goals and creatively communicate with local and global communities. The most recent expo inspired more than 300 students to submit more than 600 projects across CAD, coding, digital design, interactive media, photography, podcasts, and videos to showcase their knowledge and understanding of innovative forms of technology.
“Thank you, Worcester County Public Schools Media Expo, for highlighting the importance of technology and media integration in preparing students for career and college readiness,” said MASL President Stacey Nunn. “Your ability to engage and impact over 300 students through a program with a legacy of more than fifty
years is truly inspiring to both students and school librarians in the surrounding area. The opportunity to create and showcase innovative projects demonstrates how accessible technology can be a powerful motivator in helping students achieve their academic goals.”
The Maryland Association of Elementary School Principals (MAESP) recenty announced Pocomoke Elementary School Principal Joshua Hamborsky as one of 14 elementary school principals in the state to be honored with the 2024 Connected School Leader Award.
Hamborsky and the entire cohort of winners will be honored at MAESP’s conference in November. The awardees also will participate in the Connected School Leader speaker series, a virtual speaker sessions for school leaders across the state.
Wor-Wic Community College was one of only two community colleges in Maryland, and one of 258 campuses across the nation, to be designated as a Voter Friendly Campus by the Fair Elections Center’s Campus Vote Project and Student Affairs Administrators in Higher Education (NASPA).
The initiative recognizes institutions that have planned and implemented practices that encourage their students to register and vote in elections. Its goal is to bolster colleges and universities’ efforts to help students overcome barriers to participating in the political process.
Wor-Wic was evaluated based on a written plan for how it planned to register, educate and turn out student voters, how it facilitated voter engagement efforts on our campus and a final analysis of its efforts, which it continues to maintain. During National Voter Registration Day recently, Wor-Wic held an event on campus in tandem with the Wicomico County Board of Elections to allow students to register to vote.
“We are proud to be a place where students can feel their voices are heard,” said Deborah Casey, Ph.D., president of Wor-Wic. “We feel it is im-
portant for our students to be engaged in their democracy and is in keeping with our ethos of being a community-focused institution.”
The institutions designated Voter Friendly Campuses represent a wide range of two-year, four-year, public, private, rural and urban campuses, collectively serving over 3.5 million students. Fair Elections Center is a national, nonpartisan voting rights and legal support organization that works to eliminate barriers to voting and improve election administration across the United States.
The following represents a collection of releases received about local students being recognized.
• More than 9,000 University of Maryland Global Campus students were named to the Dean’s List for the
summer 2024 term including Yonas Amare of Snow Hill, Cybersecurity Technology; Khaleel Collick of Snow Hill, Communication Studies BA; Daniel Del Camp of Ocean City, Cybersecurity Mgt & Policy 2nd; Kathleen Ewing of Ocean City, Social Science BS; Donald Giles of Berlin, Cybersecurity Technology; Bridget Kemp of Berlin, Graphic Communication BA; Alexis Million of Berlin, Accounting BS; Dean Rill of Ocean City, Health Services Management BS; Angela Robinson of Ocean Pines, Communication Studies BA; and Devon Tingle of Ocean City, Web and Digital Design • Southern New Hampshire University’s 2024 President’s List included
local students Levente Szentkereszti of Ocean City and Adam Shanklin of Ocean Pines.
• Marlee Roberts of Berlin has begun higher education studies at Albright College, pursuing a Bachelor of Arts degree as a member of the class of 2028. A graduate of Stephen Decatur High School, Roberts is studying Theatre and Studio Art at Albright. Roberts is joined by more than 400 first year and transfer students.
• James Madison University recently welcomed the class of 2028 including Amanda Berry of Ocean City who is majoring in Biology, and Ella Gaddis of Berlin who is majoring in Nursing.
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By Deborah Lee Walker
Contributing Writer
(Oct. 4, 2024) Is perfection possible?
That being said, is flawlessness even plausible when it comes to cooking?
The prophetic challenge of a chef is to incite distinction with every dish. Time and tradition are combined in the maze of antiquity and the rewards of a region are the roots for generations to come. The question is, “How can one embellish or glorify past favorites so anticipation reigns supreme?”
With that thought in mind, the subject of the day is a cheese ball. Do not be fooled by the appearance of simplicity; a fine line differentiates straightforward-
ness from sophistication.
One might be wondering how a modest cheese ball can be indicative of complexity. Choice is understood as variation permeates the theme of today. Cheese balls, cheese logs, and even a cheese filling that has been refrigerated in a seasonal mold are possibilities when presenting the popular appetizer.
The sticky consistency of cream cheese-based cheese balls is the “glue” for a number of crispy coatings such as crispy bacon, toasted pecans, sesame seeds, and pomegranate seeds.
The Eastern Shore is known for its fresh seafood and a cheese ball with seafood is fitting for the coastline of Delmarva. But the piece de resistance is the presentation. Let us take a detailed look at a Harvest Cheese Ball with a Surprise.
Cheese is the star of the recipe. If one is on a diet, you may want to look the other way. Cream cheese, spicy pepper Jack, and sharp cheese are a blend of delicious merriments.
Cream cheese not only adds essence but acts as a binder. Lemon juice, hot sauce, and prepared horseradish adds a nice zest to the binder and cuts some of the richness.
Pepper Jack and sharp cheese are variables of different degrees but their individual components blend to a spec-
trum of perfect harmony. Toasted pecans, crispy bacon, sauteed scallions, and roasted peppers adds coarseness and highlights the flavor profile.
The cheese ball filling is delicious on its own, but the addition of seafood enhances sophistication and character and is perfect for the upcoming holidays. Crab, shrimp, or scallops are possible options.
Pumpkins are synonymous with the fall and Thanksgiving and what would be more fun than to shape the cheese ball
See A SEASONAL Page 55
ARIES – Mar 21/Apr 20
Even though you told yourself you’ll just suck it up and get through the week, you’re having a change of heart, Aries. Some modifications are necessary to navigate the waters.
TAURUS – Apr 21/May 21
Taurus, all bets are off this week, especially if you’ve been smoothing over your emotions to get along with someone close by. All true feelings are bound to come to the surface.
GEMINI – May 22/Jun 21
This week you may not be feeling like yourself, Gemini. Low energy have you feeling out of sorts. Spend some time with a close friend to get things back on track.
CANCER – Jun 22/Jul 22
Cancer, your friends always have your back, but this week there is a disruption in your crew. Someone isn’t playing nice, but a few words from you will smooth things over quickly.
LEO – Jul 23/Aug 23
You are anxious to get started on an exciting project, Leo. Others on your team may need a dose of inspiration. It could be up to you to motivate the troops.
VIRGO – Aug 24/Sept 22
Virgo, you made a commitment to keep things toned down. Enjoy the slower pace and take note of how the lack of hustle and bustle suits you.
LIBRA – Sept 23/Oct 23
Normally you’re satisfied to let someone else take the lead and make all of the decisions, Libra. This week you might need to be the one taking a leadership role.
SCORPIO – Oct 24/Nov 22
A surprising bit of information may be brought to your attention, Scorpio. You might be up for a promotion or an exciting change could be coming in your personal life.
SAGITTARIUS – Nov 23/Dec 21
Don’t stop now when you are so close to the finish line, Sagittarius. It may be a busy week ahead, but you will reap the rewards of your labors. Remain patient.
CAPRICORN – Dec 22/Jan 20
Take inventory of your romantic relationship, Capricorn. You might need to put in a little extra effort if things haven’t been as smooth as you would like. Don’t give up on this.
AQUARIUS – Jan 21/Feb 18
Aquarius, you are working at keeping everyone on the same page. Continue to emphasize the importance of teamwork. Others notice and appreciate your efforts.
PISCES – Feb 19/Mar 20
Continued from Page 54
into the shape of a pumpkin. While this idea is not new, the addition of seafood and a coating of crushed Old Bay cheese
curls is very fitting for the Eastern Shore.
Ingredients
¾ pound bacon, cooked and finely chopped
½ cup pecans
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
¼ cup scallions, finely chopped
1/8 cup fresh minced parsley
¼ cup jarred roasted peppers, finely chopped
12 ounces whipped cream cheese
¼ cup half and half
2 teaspoons favorite hot sauce
2 teaspoons prepared horseradish
few splashes fresh lemon juice
½ teaspoon garlic powder
kosher salt to taste
½ cup pepper Jack cheese, shredded
1 cup sharp cheese, shredded 1/3 cup chopped cooked crab meat, shrimp, or scallops
2 cups Old Bay cheese curls
1 bell pepper stem
1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Toast pecans, finely chop and set aside.
2. In a small sauce pan, heat butter over medium heat. Sauté scallions, parsley, and roasted peppers for 5 minutes. Place on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any remaining liquid.
3. Place cream cheese, half and half, hot sauce, prepared horseradish, lemon juice, garlic powder, and salt in a medium mixing bowl. Using a hand- held blender, combine mixture until well blended.
4. Add bacon, pecans, and cooked
veggies to the mixture.
5. Gently fold in seafood.
6. Divide mixture into 2 even balls.
7. Place cheese curls in a Ziplock bag, and using the back of a skillet, press down until curls form a powder.
8. Roll cheese balls in cheese curl powder, then wrap each ball in plastic wrap. Place 4 rubber bands evenly around each cheese ball to create the lines of a pumpkin. Refrigerate overnight.
9. Carefully remove rubber bands and plastic wrap. You may have to add a touch more coating. Place bell pepper stem on top and serve with favorite crackers.
Secret Ingredient – Specificity
“I always wanted to be somebody, but I realized I should have been more specific.”
— Lily Tomlin
It is not possible to make it all the way through your to-do list this week, so plan on some carryover to the next, Pisces. Space out your work so you don’t get too overwhelmed.
■ PRICE RANGE: $, $$, $$$
■ RESERVATIONS: Reservations accepted
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.
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.
■ 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.
■ CLUBHOUSE BAR AND GRILLE
100 Clubhouse Drive, Ocean Pines 410-641-7222, Oceanpinesgolf.org/dining
$$ | Full bar
Indoor and outdoor dining with sweeping views of the 18th green and pond, the Clubhouse Bar and Grille serves freshly prepared breakfast and lunch items with a full bar menu. Open: Monday through Sunday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
■ OCEAN PINES YACHT CLUB
1 Mumford Landing Road, Ocean Pines 410-6417222, www.OPYachtclub.com
$$-$$$ | Full bar
The Ocean Pines Yacht Club offers casual coastal cuisine for lunch and dinner in a beautiful bayfront setting. Fresh seafood, signature drinks, live music and more. Open: Thursday, 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.; and Sunday, 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.
■ BREAKFAST CAFE
12736 Ocean Gateway, Route 50 east, West Ocean City, 410-213-1804, breakfastcafeofoc.com
All the traditional breakfast options available here in a casual, diner setting. Open daily closing at 2 p.m.
■ CANTINA LOS AGAVES MEXICAN GRILL
12720 Ocean Gateway #7, West Ocean City 410390-3914, cantinalosagaves.com
$$ | 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.
By Steve Price Contributing Writer
(Oct. 4, 2024) This week I take great personal pride and pleasure in recognizing Rita J. Villani, life member of the Ocean City Volunteer Fire Company Ladies Auxiliary, and a true matriarch of the Ocean City community.
Rita was born on November 30, 1927, in Washington, D.C. She began dancing at the age of five, performing for our troops and even met “Ladybird” Johnson at the White House. She was so little, she had to dance on a table to be seen. She is tremendously proud of her early career as a professional dancer from 1944-1946 (under the stage name of Karen Ray) with the Radio City Music Hall Rockettes in New York City.
She and her family spent their summer vacations visiting Ocean City and staying at the Villa Nova Cottages in West Ocean City. It was there that Rita met her future husband, Angelo M. Villani. She and Angelo were married on November 7, 1949. She owned and operated the Rita Villani Dance Studio on Elm Street in West Ocean City from 1951-1957. In 1959, she and Angelo opened the Villani Real Estate Office at 63rd Street in Ocean City where she worked as the Rental Manager until their retirement in 1989. They raised
two daughters, Karen and Anita, and greatly influenced both as to the importance of community service. Rita joined the Ocean City Volunteer Fire Company Ladies Auxiliary in 1952. She was presented a plaque on April 2, 2022, recognizing her 70 years of Active Service in the OCVFCLA. When asked why she joined the OCVFCLA, Rita replied, “I wanted to help carry on the Villani family tradition of serving the Ocean City community as a member of the Ocean City Volunteer Fire Company.” (Rita’s husband, Angelo, as well as his brothers, Tony, and Sam, all served for many years as members of the OCVFC). Rita was always willing to participate in the many fundraising projects for the organization. In fact, she cites the on-stage performances of dancers from her senior groups during Sunfest and Springfest with the proceeds being donated to the OCVFC as her greatest accomplishment as a member of the Ladies Auxiliary. Rita also directed many benefits for the Volunteer Fire Company including variety shows and even a “womanless” beauty contest. All the participants of the event
were men from the OCVFC. She also especially enjoyed marching with her fellow OCVFCLA members in the many holiday and firemen parades on the Eastern Shore.
When asked to “pass on” one piece of advice with those who may have an interest in joining the OCVFC Ladies Auxiliary, Rita replied, “You will be joining one of the best and most worthy organizations possible. This organization will provide you an opportunity to serve your community while also assist-
ing the men and women of the OCVFC.”
We especially thank Rita Villani for her long and devoted commitment to serving her community and members of the OCVFC. We thank all of the members of the Ocean City Volunteer Fire Company Ladies Auxiliary for their loyal support of the OCVFC and our Cadet Program.
For membership information or to learn more about your volunteer fire company, please visit www.ocvfc.com
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.
COUNTRY CALLING FESTIVAL
Downtown Ocean City, 401 S. Atlantic Ave. Tickets are sold out. To join the waitlist: www.countrycallingfestival.com.
FREE COMMUNITY FLU CLINIC
Ocean Pines Community Center, 235 Ocean Parkway, 8 a.m.-1 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
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
SURVIVAL SPANISH: SPORTS
Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 1 p.m. Learn about the Spanish vocabulary for all things sports. 410-208-4014, www.worcesterlibrary.org
FIRST FRIDAY OPENING RECEPTION FOR OCTOBER EXHIBITS
Art League of Ocean City, 502 94th St., 5-8 p.m. Meet the artists, enjoy hors d’oeuvres, and see the new exhibits by a variety of local artists. Free event. All are welcome. Thaler Gallery: The Red Thread — Deborah Rolig, Dee Gray, Seth Apter. 410-524-9433
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
COUNTRY CALLING FESTIVAL
Downtown Ocean City, 401 S. Atlantic Ave. Tickets are sold out. To join the waitlist: www.countrycallingfestival.com.
BETHESDA UMC ANNUAL FALL BAZAAR & FESTIVAL
Bethesda United Methodist Church, 406 N. Division St., Salisbury, 6:30 a.m.-2 p.m. Bethesda UMC will have a Yard
Sale, Silent Auction, Raffles, Cake Walk and lots and lots of Homemade Food available for purchase. 410-742-8855
THE PARKE GARAGE SALE
The Parke at Ocean Pines, 2 Arcadia Court, Berlin, 7:30 a.m.-noon. Held in the driveways of residents. Maps will be available at the main entrance of the Parke at Central Parke west and south Ocean Parkway. Rain date is Oct. 6. 410208-4994
FREE COMMUNITY FLU CLINIC
Gudelsky Family Medical Center (DriveThru), 10614 Racetrack Road, Berlin, 8 a.m.-noon. 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
WOR-WIC 5K HERO RUN
Wor-Wic Community College, 32000 Campus Drive, Salisbury, 9 a.m. Checkin and registration begin at 8 a.m. Featuring 5K Hero Run, 2-mile walk and 2024 First Responder Team Cup Challenge. Entry fee is $25 or $35 after Oct. 2 and $5 for kids’ event. www.worwic.edu/5K, 410-334-2965
18TH ANNUAL CRUIZERS FOR CHRIST CAR SHOW
Whaleysville United Methodist, 11716 Sheppards Crossing Road, Whaleyville, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Trophies awarded to Top 20 and Best in Show, silent auction, gospel music and food for purchase including scrapple sandwiches, hamburgers, hot dogs and baked goods. Entry fee is $15.
SATURDAY WRITERS
Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 10 a.m. Novice and established writers gather to share their writing projects. Structure includes critiques and appreciation, market leads and writing exercises. Drop ins welcome. 410-641-0650
CRAFTY SATURDAY: HISPANIC HERITAGE MONTH
Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Create a craft and discover more about Hispanic culture. For ages 0-5 years and 6-11 years. 410-208-4014, www.worcesterlibrary.org
TECH CLINIC
Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 11 a.m.-2:30
p.m. Stop by and ask questions related to your devices and technology services. 410-208-4014, www.worcesterlibrary.org
GOSPEL CELEBRATION OF THE LIFE AND MUSIC OF REV. CHARLES ALBERT
TINDLEY, DD
New Bethel United Methodist Church, 10203 Germantown Road, Berlin, 12-3 p.m. A day dedicated to the hymns, vision and history of Rev. Tindley. Free event and all are welcome to come celebrate and sing. Hot dogs available for purchase. 410-641-0638, germantownschool@gmail.com
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.
BLESSING OF THE PETS
Church of the Holy Spirit Episcopalparking lot, 10001 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, 12 p.m. In honor of St. Francis of Assisi. Pets should be on leashes or otherwise under their owners’ control. All pets welcome. Photos of departed pets and stuffed animals also welcome. 410-723-1973
ANNUAL BLESSING OF THE ANIMALS
St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, 3 Church St., Berlin, 2 p.m. Come for a brief prayer service and then get individual blessings for your pets. Pets in photos or in person are accepted.
CRAB FEAST
Church of the Holy Spirit Episcopal, 10001 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, 2-5 p.m. Crabs, fried chicken, corn on the cob, hush puppies, lemonade, iced tea, soda and desserts. Carry-out available. Cost is $45 for adults and $20 for kids 6-10 years. Tickets: lloydm119@gmail.com. 443-235-8942
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
STORY TIME: FIRE SAFETY
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
FIESTA FLAVORS WITH PLAZA TAPATIA
Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 2 p.m. Join in for a food demonstration and some tastings. Registration required: 410208-4014. www.worcesterlibrary.org
GREAT BOOKS DISCUSSION
Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 2:30 p.m. Group meets twice a month to discuss selections from the Great Books Foundation. Focusing on “On the Tranquility of the Mind” by Seneca. 410-208-4014, www.worcesterlibrary.org
CAREGIVER SUPPORT GROUP
John H. “Jack” Burbage, Jr. Regional Cancer Care Center, 9707 Healthway Drive, Berlin, 3-4 p.m. Providing a safe place for caregivers how share similar challenges and rewards of providing care for adults who have any type of serious illness. Nicole Fry, nfry@atlanticgeneral.org, 410-641-2626
CITIZEN RESEARCH PROJECT KICK-OFF
Worcester County Library - Snow Hill Branch, 307 N. Washington St., 3 p.m. Also held via Zoom. The program will discuss the important role of everyday citizens in identifying women of history and the resources available to them. 410-632-3495, www.worcesterlibrary.org
WARHAMMER
Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 4 p.m. Use the library’s armies or bring your own. Tutorials and demos will be available, so novices and veteran players alike are welcome. For ages 12-18 years. 410-6410650, www.worcesterlibrary.org
LEGO STEAM CHALLENGE
Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 4:30 p.m. Join in for a Lego challenge event. All materials provided. For ages 6-11 years.
CALENDAR
410-208-4014, www.worcesterlibrary.org
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
ONE MARYLAND ONE BOOK TED TALK
Worcester County Library - Snow Hill Branch, 307 N. Washington St., 5:30 p.m. Listen to and discuss the different TED talks about the 2010 Haitian earthquake. 410-632-3495, www.worcesterlibrary.org
BRIDGE
Mondays - Ocean City 50plus Center, 104 41st Street, Ocean City, 12:30-3:30 p.m. Reserve a spot: Tish, 410-8043971. www.Worcoa.org/oceancity
DELMARVA WOMEN’S A CAPELLA CHORUS
Mondays - Ocean Pines Community Center, 239 Ocean Parkway, 6:00-8:00 p.m. All ladies who love to sing invited. Mary, 410-629-9383 or Carol, 302-2427062.
OVEREATER’S ANONYMOUS
Mondays - Worcester County LibraryOcean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 7-8 p.m. No dues or fees. 410-459-9100
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 WTH A HERO
Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 10:30 a.m. Story time featuring a community hero. For ages 0-5 years. 410-641-0650, www.worcesterlibrary.org
STORY TIME @ THE DELMARVA DISCOVERY MUSEUM
Delmarva Discovery Museum, 2 Market St., Pocomoke City, 10:30 a.m. Stories, songs, crafts and a visit with the animals. A different animal will be featured every month. For ages 0-5 years. 410957-0878, 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
LET’S MAKE … MODERN ART WALL HANGINGS
Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 2 p.m. Your wired sculpture will be unique and fun
to build. All materials provided. Call 410-641-0650 or visit www.worcesterlibrary.org to register.
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
PARKINSON’S SUPPORT GROUP
Atlantic General Neurology at the Atlantic Health Center, 9714 Healthway Drive, Berlin, 3:15-4 p.m. Providing discussions and support, along with education on exercise, nutrition, coping techniques, medications and developments in treatment. Kay Kinnikin, 410641-4765, kkinnikin@atlanticgeneral.org
LEAF PRINTS
Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 4:30 p.m. Create beautiful artwork using leaves. For ages 0-5 years. 410-641-0650, www.worcesterlibrary.org
SAFE BOATING COURSE
Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 6-9 p.m. Classes held Oct. 8, 9 and 10. Cost is $20 for all three evenings. Register: Barry Cohen, 410-935-4807, CGAUXOC@gmail.com.
SONG CELEBRATION
Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 6 p.m. Bring a song and share it with other players and writers. Originals encouraged. Listeners welcome. 410-641-0650, www.worcesterlibrary.org
BOOK CLUB: ‘WHAT STORM, WHAT THUNDER’ BY MYRIAM J.A. CHANCY
Tides & Vine, 106 W. Green St., Snow Hill, 6 p.m. Pick up your book at the Snow Hill Library then meet for a discussion at Tides & Vine. Must be at least 21 years of age. 410-632-0650, www.worcesterlibrary.org
ATLANTIC COAST SPORTFISHING ASSOCIATION MEETING
American Legion Synepuxent Post 166, 2308 Philadelphia Ave., Ocean City, 7 p.m. Guest speakers will be Bonnie Erwin and Ryan Comer from “Fallen Outdoors Maryland/Delaware.” The public is invited. Food and refreshments available at 6:15 p.m.
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 Continued on Page 60
Outside Play Sets • WiFi Security Cameras • TV Mounting
FOR FASTEST SERVICE: We need your address & contact information and exact brand name, model #’s and quantity. Email us a copy of your receipt/pictures.
Sasha@AtlanticAssemblers.com 302-569-9732
Continued from Page 59
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.
BARIATRIC SUPPORT GROUP
Meets online via Zoom the first and second Wednesdays of each month. For non-surgical patients. Atlantic General Bariatric Center, 410-641-9568
AARP MEETING
Ocean City 50plus Center, 104 41st St., 10 a.m. Refreshments served at 9:30 a.m. Flu shots provided by the Coastal Drug Pharmacy. Guest speaker will discuss “Aging and Alzheimer’s.” New members welcome. Bob McCluskey, 410-250-0980
BABY TIME
Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 10 a.m. Songs, stories and giggles. For ages 0-2 years. 410-208-4014, www.worcesterlibrary.org
MERRY MAKERS: SHELL TRINKET DISHES
Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 11 a.m. This adult craft class will decoupage printed napkins onto shells to make beautiful trinket dishes. Supplies provided and space limited to 10. Register: 410-2084014. www.worcesterlibrary.org
BOOK CLUB: “WHAT STORM, WHAT THUNDER” BY MYRIAM J.A. CHANCY
Snow Hill 50plus Center, 4767 Snow Hill Road, 11 a.m. Stop by the Snow Hill Library or the 50plus Center for a copy of the One Maryland One Book then
On September 26, students in Mrs. Marshall’s first grade Class at Ocean City Elementary School celebrated John Chapman’s birthday. The students read about how he got the nickname Johnny Appleseed, explored different apple tastes, and experimented with different apple treats.
meet for a great discussion. 410-6323495, www.worcesterlibrary.org
TABLE TOP ROLE PLAYING GAME
Worcester County Library - Snow Hill Branch, 307 N. Washington St., 5 p.m. Come play a selected role-playing game for adults and teens. Limit 10. Registration required: 410-632-3495. www.worcesterlibrary.org
SEA GLASS ART
Worcester County Library - Pocomoke Branch, 301 Market St., 5 p.m. Design your own sea glass art piece. All supplies provided. Registration necessary: 410957-0878. www.worcesterlibrary.org
ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE: SHAPING THE FUTURE
Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 5:30 p.m. Learn about AI and its impact on the future. 410-641-0650, www.worcesterlibrary.org
WONDERLAND PARTY OF THE YEAR
Embers @ District 224, 2305 Philadelphia Ave., Ocean City, 6-9 p.m. Alice in Wonderland themed fundraiser. Cost is $150. Tickets: https://givebutter.com/ALOCPartyoftheYear2024. Online auction: https://givebutter.com/c/ALOCPartyoftheYear2024/auction. 410-524-9433
STEP INTO SALSA: BEGINNER LESSONS Healing Arts Center, 617 Franklin Ave., Berlin, 7:30 p.m. Learn basic Salsa moves with Amanda Showell from Dancing on the Shore. Classes held Oct 9, 16, 23 and 30. Registration required: 443-783-6164. 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.
27TH ANNUAL ENDLESS SUMMER CRUISIN’
Roland E. Powell Convention Center, 4001 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Also held in the Ocean City Inlet Parking Lot. Admission is $15, Thursday-Saturday and $10, Sunday. Free to those 13 years and younger. Schedule: https://specialeventpro.com/endlesssummer-cruisin.
STORY TIME: LEONARDO THE TERRIBLE MONSTER
Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 10:30 a.m. Can Leonardo learn to be scary or become something even better? Songs, a story and a craft. For ages 2-5 years. 410208-4014, www.worcesterlibrary.org
PLAY TIME
Worcester County Library - Snow Hill Branch, 307 N. Washington St., 10:30 a.m. Join in for a variety of activities and toys. Play and socialize with other families. For ages 2-5 years. 410-632-3495, www.worcesterlibrary.org
GROWING UP WILD: LOOKING AT LEAVES
Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 4 p.m. Learn all about leaves through a variety of activities. For ages 6-11 years. 410-6410650, 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
SEA GLASS ART
Worcester County Library - Snow Hill Branch, 307 N. Washington St., 5 p.m. Design your own sea glass art piece. All supplies provided. Call 410-632-3495 or visit www.worcesterlibrary.org to register.
SUN RECORDS LIVE! THE CONCERT Ocean City Performing Arts Center, 4001 Coastal Highway, 7 p.m. In honor of Sun Records and founder Sam Phillips. Prices are $35, $45, $55. Tickets: https://www.etix.com/ticket/p/5414244 6/sun-records-live-the-official-concertocean-city-oc-performing-arts-center.
BEACH SINGLE 55 PLUS MEET AND GREET
Thursdays - Harpoon Hanna’s, Fen wick Island, DE, 4-6 p.m. 215-385-4993, BeachSingles.org
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.
Crossword answers from page 54
Worcester Prep is seeking qualified seasonal coaches for the following sports:
We are seeking highly motivated and self-driven coaches to join our team. The ideal coach will have a passion for coaching young athletes, with a focus on developing their athletic abilities and character.
For more information, please scan the code or visit our website.
worcesterprep.org/about/employment
Worcester Prep is a fully-accredited Pre-k through grade 12 independent school located in Berlin, MD.
Assistant, Associate, or Full Professor: Physician Assistant- Faculty Position
The School of Pharmacy and Health Professions at the University of Maryland Eastern Shore e invites applications for the position of Assistant, Associate, or Full Professor in the Master of Physician Assistant Studies Program. This is a fulltime, tenure-track, 12-month position.
The position will report to the Program Director and will collaborate with other PA faculty, and staff to support the program’s mission and ensure compliance with ARC-PA accreditation standards. The program is dedicated to allotting time and resources for the professional development of all faculty and staff. Salary and rank for the position is commensurate with experience and qualifications.
Responsibilities
• Teach courses as assigned by the Program Director or Didactic Education Director.
• Supervise students in both didactic and clinical courses and activities.
• Assist with admission, application review and interviews.
• Maintain licensure and/or certification in discipline.
• Develop and coordinate course design, course delivery, and participate in the evaluation of didactic and clinical curriculum.
• Provide guidance to faculty/ course directors in the development, implementation and evaluation of student performance.
• Participate in student academic advising.
• Participate in service to the department, School, University and community.
• Scholarship in the discipline is expected.
• Perform other program and department level duties as assigned.
Required Qualifications
• Master’s degree from an ARC-PA accredited program.
• Current NCCPA certification.
• Two to three years of clinical experience.
• Current license or eligibility for licensing as a physician assistant in the State of Maryland.
Salary Commensurate with education, experience, and qualifications
Job posting link: https://umes.peopleadmin.com/ postings/3895
ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT
Great communication and customer service skills.
Excellent computer skills. Willing to train to book travel and leisure trips, create Marketing and promotional advertising campaigns and email blasts. Hiring immediately. Pls. include your email and phone. 410-213-9330
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.
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
RENTALS
SWANN KEYS: 3/2 turnkey canal front home with bulkhead. Available 9/19/2024-5/31/2025. $1150/month + elec. Call 443-278-3993, leave message.
WINTER RENTAL DOWNTOWN OC, BAYSIDE 1BR, 1BA. Fully furnished. Private parking. Avail. 11/14/30. $915 + elec., cable incl. 410-603-9453
(6 months, Nov.-May) 2 BEDROOM $1,500 per mo. Utils. incl. (elec./cable/internet) No smoking/No pets Bayshore Estates, Plover Drive 410-524-0295
Or Contact Our Office at 410-352-9800
The Coastal Point has an opening for an experienced salesperson to join a team dedicated to providing exceptional local news coverage.
Responsibilities include:
■ Servicing existing customers and generating new business while providing top-notch customer service.
■ The ability to sell print and digital products while meeting deadlines.
■ Collaborate with our creative team to create compelling ads tailored to clients’ needs and budgets.
■ Meet and exceed sales targets and goals.
Ideal candidate should be highly motivated, positive attitude, good communication skills, organized and detail oriented. Computer skills with Microsoft office and reliable transportation are necessary.
Please send resume to adsales@coastalpoint.com
YEAR-ROUND RENTAL, DOWNTOWN OC, BAYSIDE
1BR, 1BA. 3rd Floor. Completely Renovated! Fully furnished. Private parking. $1,950. Includes Elec., Cable, Internet.
410-430-7675
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
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.
MISC. FOR SALE
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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
WINTER RENTAL Large 1BR, 1BA Condo. 2 floors, close to Northside Park, 127th Street.
$1,000 per mo. + elec. Refs. & sec. dep. 267-254-0111
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
WEEKLY RENTALS
$300-$500 per week. October-May. 301-331-2209
Seeking YR & Seasonal Rentals! Call Howard Martin Realty 410-352-5555.
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.
Houseshare. Furnished rooms in South Ocean Pines. All inclusive.
$800 per month. Year-round. No smoking. No pets. Call 443-880-2317.
16 ACRES
Perked, surveyed and ready to build your own private oasis, dream home, man cave, horse farm, etc. Just outside of Bishopville on Rt. 610. Close to tax free shopping, schools & hospital. $325,000 Call Howard Martin Realty, 410-352-5555.
Commercial Space for Lease. 2-3 Units available, can be divided or joined. Approx. 800-1000 sq. ft. ea. Busy major road in Town of Berlin. Call 443-880-8885 for more information.
Industrial 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
SERVICES
MG IMPROVEMENTS, LLC Handyman Services 410-916-1405
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
INSURANCE from Physicians Mutual Insurance Company. Coverage for 350 plus procedures. Real dental insurance - NOT just a discount plan. Do not wait! Call now! Get your FREE Dental Information Kit with all the details! 1-855-337-5228 www.dental50plus.com/ MDDC #6258 Advertise in MDDC 410-723-6397
We are looking to get as many
ble. Your
as
will be
deductible. Contact Gary at 443-975-3065.
MGImprovements00@ gmail.com Over 40 Years Experience! Do you have an old bicycle not being used? It could mean a world of difference to a hard-working
Allow me to kneel, Gently rebind your sandal, So I may follow!
McCabe, Weisberg & Conway, LLC
312 Marshall Avenue, Suite 800 Laurel, MD 20707
www.mwc-law.com
Under a power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust from Kelley E. Galyen a/k/a Kelley E. Gaylen, dated December 26, 2006 and recorded in Liber 4859, folio 684 among the Land Records of Worcester County, MD, default having occurred under the terms thereof and at the request of the parties secured thereby, the undersigned Substitute Trustees will offer for sale at public auction at the Circuit Court for Worcester County, at the Court House Door, One W. Market St., Snow Hill, MD 21863, on
OCTOBER 22, 2024 AT 3:55 PM
ALL THAT FEE SIMPLE LOT OF GROUND AND THE IMPROVEMENTS THEREON situated in Worcester County, Maryland and more fully described in the aforesaid Deed of Trust. The property is improved by a dwelling. The property, will be sold in an "as is" condition and subject to conditions, restrictions, easements, encumbrances and agreements of record affecting the subject property, if any, and with no warranty of any kind.
Terms of Sale: A deposit in the form of cashier's or certified check, or in such other form as the Substitute Trustees may determine, at their sole discretion, for $8,000 at the time of sale. If the noteholder and/or servicer is the successful bidder, the deposit requirement is waived. Balance of the purchase price is to be paid within ten (10) days of the final ratification of the sale by the Circuit Court for Worcester County, Maryland. Interest is to be paid on the unpaid purchase price at the rate of 5% per annum from date of sale to the date the funds are received in the office of the Substitute Trustees, if the property is purchased by an entity other than the noteholder and/or servicer. If payment of the balance does not occur within ten (10) days of ratification, the deposit will be forfeited as liquidated damages. The purchaser agrees that the property may be resold pursuant to an order of court, waives personal service upon themselves and/or any principal or corporate designee of any documents filed regarding the failure to pay the purchase price within ten (10) days of ratification and expressly agrees to accept service by first class mail of said documents at the address provided by the purchaser in the Memorandum of Sale. The purchaser will not be entitled to any surplus or profits arising from the resale even if they are the result of improvements made by the purchaser. There will be no abatement of interest due from the pur-
chaser in the event settlement is delayed for any reason. Taxes, ground rent, water rent, and all other public charges and assessments payable on an annual basis, including sanitary and/or metropolitan district charges, and front foot benefit charges, if applicable, to be adjusted for the current year to the date of sale, and assumed thereafter by the purchaser. Condominium fees and/or homeowners association dues, if any, shall be assumed by the purchaser from the date of sale. The purchaser shall be responsible for the payment of the ground rent escrow, if required. Cost of all documentary stamps, transfer taxes (including agricultural transfer taxes, if applicable), and all settlement charges shall be borne by the purchaser. The sale is subject to a post sale audit of the loan, including but not limited to an analysis of whether the borrower entered into a loan modification agreement, filed bankruptcy, reinstated or paid off the loan prior to the sale. The Substitute Trustees will convey either insurable or marketable title. If the Substitute Trustees are unable to convey insurable or marketable title or, the post sale audit concludes that the sale should not have occurred, or the sale is not ratified by the court for any reason, the purchaser’s sole remedy in law or equity shall be limited to the refund of the deposit without interest even if the purchaser has made improvements to the property. Upon refund of the deposit, the sale shall be void and of no effect, and the purchaser shall have no further claim against the Substitute Trustees. Purchaser shall be responsible for obtaining physical possession of the property. The purchaser at the foreclosure sale shall assume the risk of loss for the property immediately after the sale. (Matter #2013-42873).
Laura H. G. O'Sullivan, et al., Substitute Trustees
OCD-10/3/3t
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.
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.
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 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.
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 cred-
itor 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.
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
OCD-9/19/3t
OF PASSAGE OF BILL 24-07 WORCESTER COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
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
OCD-9/19/3t
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
All persons having claims against the decedent must file their claims with the Register of Wills for WORCESTER COUNTY with a copy to the foreign personal representative on or before the earlier of the following dates:
(1) Six months from the date of the decedent’s death; or
(2) Two months after the foreign personal representative mails or delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claim within two months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. Claims filed after that date or after a date extended by law will be barred.
TERRI WESTCOTT, Register of Wills for Worcester County ONE W MARKET STREET ROOM 102 - COURT HOUSE SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1074 OCD-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
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:
= Boardwalk One Condominium
Clerk of the Circuit Court for Worcester County, MD 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
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).
public-comment/. Commenters using the Public Comment Dropbox for the 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
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.
MAUREEN
COATES, COATES, & COATES, P.A.
RAYMOND D. COATES JR., ESQ. 6200 COASTAL HIGHWAY, SUITE 300 OCEAN CITY, MD 21842
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: 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.
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
Susan R. Braniecki
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-a-
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
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
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.
OCD-9/26/2t
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
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
AUTH: Ross Buzzuro Chief of Police
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.
OCD-9/26/2t
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 appointed 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.
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.
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
OCD-9/26/3t
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 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
OF APPOINTMENT
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS
To all persons interested in the estate of W WAYNE ALAN HARRISON Estate No. 2 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 W WAYNE ALAN HARRISON who died on A 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 1 19th day of M 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.
TERRI WESTCOTT, Register of Wills for WORCESTER COUNTY ONE W MARKET STREET ROOM 102 - COURT HOUSE SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1074 OCD-9/26/3t
RAYMOND D. COATES JR, ESQ COATES,COATES, & COATES, P.A.
6200 COASTAL HIGHWAY, SUITE 300 OCEAN CITY, MD 21842
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS
To all persons interested in the estate of R RICHARD M CERV Estate No. 2 20361 Notice is given that D DOUGLAS ELMER CERV whose address is 300 MULBERRY DR CHRISTIANSBRG, VA 24073-4708 was on S SEPTEMBER 20, 2024 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of R RICHARD M CERV who died on S 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 2 20th day of M 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.
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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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.
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.
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
OCD-9/26/3t
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
OF PUBLIC HEARING FOR AGRICULTURAL EASEMENT ACQUISITION WORCESTER COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
The purpose of this public hearing is to hear comments on petitions to sell an agricultural easement to the Maryland Agricultural Land Preservation Foundation (MALPF) on the following properties in Worcester County:
1. Guy, Larry Dean and Deborah, TM 99, P 27; Hall Road, Pocomoke City; 96.75 acres
2. Maddux, Percy, S., TM 91, P 59; New Bridge Road; 144.92 acres
3. Maddux, Percy S., TM 99, P 49; 1226 Colona Road, Pocomoke City; 130.02 acres
The public hearing on these applications will be held on TUESDAY, October 15, 2024 at 10:30 A.M. in the Commissioners’ Meeting Room, Room 1101 –Government Center One West Market Street, Snow Hill, Maryland 21863
Additional information is available for review at the Department of Environmental Programs, Worcester County Government Center, Suite 1306 (3rd floor), One West Market Street, Snow Hill, Maryland, 21863 during regular business hours of 8:00 am to 4:30 pm . Questions may be directed to Katherine Munson, Planning Manager, by calling (410) 632-1220, extension 1302 or email at kmunson@co.worcester.md.us
THE WORCESTER COUNTY COMMISSIONERS OCD-10/3/2t
OF PROPOSED CHANGE IN ZONING
NORTH SIDE OF CROPPER’S ISLAND ROAD EAST OF US ROUTE 113 (WORCESTER HIGHWAY), NEWARK FOURTH TAX DISTRICT WORCESTER COUNTY, MARYLAND
Pursuant to Section 1-113 of the Worcester County Zoning Ordinance, Rezoning Case No. 446 has been filed by Mark Cropper on behalf of Island Resort Park, Inc. and Ewell Family Revocable Trust, property owners, for an amendment to the Official Zoning Maps to change approximately 196.11 acres of land located on the northerly side of Cropper’s Island Road, Newark, east of US Route 113 (Worcester Highway), in the Fourth Tax District of Worces-
ter County, Maryland, from A-1 Agricultural District to A-2 Agricultural District. The Planning Commission has given a favorable recommendation to the rezoning application. Pursuant to Sections 1-113 and 1114 of the Worcester County Zoning Ordinance, the County Commissioners will hold a
PUBLIC HEARING on
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 6, 2024 AT 10:30 A.M. IN THE COUNTY COMMISSIONERS’ MEETING ROOM
WORCESTER COUNTY GOVERNMENT CENTER –ROOM 1101 ONE WEST MARKET STREET SNOW HILL, MARYLAND 21863
At said public hearing the County Commissioners will consider the rezoning application, the staff file on Rezoning Case No. 446 and the recommendation of the Planning Commission, any proposed restrictions on the rezoning, other appropriate restrictions, conditions or limitations as may be deemed by them to be appropriate to preserve, improve, or protect the general character and design of the lands and improvements being zoned or rezoned or of the surrounding or adjacent lands and improvements, and the advisability of reserving the power and authority to approve or disapprove the design of buildings, construction, landscaping or other improvements, alterations and changes made or to be made on the subject land or lands to assure conformity with the intent and purpose of applicable State laws and regulations and the County Zoning Ordinance.
Maps of the petitioned area, the staff file on Rezoning Case No. 446 and the Planning Commission’s recommendation, which will be entered into record at the public hearing, are on file and available to view electronically by contacting the Department of Development, Review and Permitting, Worcester County Government Center, One West Market Street, Room 1201, Snow Hill, Maryland 21863 Monday through Friday from 8:00 A.M. and 4:30 P.M. (except holidays), at (410) 632-1200 as well as at www.co.worcester.md.us.
THE WORCESTER COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
OCD-10/3/2t
Bale Processor
Worcester County is seeking Bids from qualified Vendors to purchase a Bale Processor in conformity with the requirements contained herein Bid Documents.
Bid Documents for the above referenced project may be obtained from the Worcester County Commissioner’s Office by either e-mailing the Procurement Officer, Nicholas Rice, at nrice@co.worcester.md.us or by calling 410-632-1194 during normal business hours, or via the County’s Bids page on the County’s website. Vendors are responsible for
checking this website for addenda prior to submitting their bids. Worcester County is not responsible for the content of any Bid Document received through any third party bid service. It is the sole responsibility of the vendor to ensure the completeness and accuracy of their Completed Bid Documents.
The last day for questions will be noon on Wednesday, October 9, 2024. Sealed Bid Documents are due no later than 3:00pm on Wednesday, October 16, 2024, and will be opened and read aloud in the Office of the County Commissioners, Worcester County Government Center – Room 1103, One West Market Street, Snow Hill, Maryland 21863.
Late Bid Documents will not be accepted.
Envelopes shall be marked " Bid Solicitation – Bale Processor”, in the lower left-hand corner.
Minority vendors are encouraged to compete for award of the solicitation.
Nicholas W. Rice, CPPO, CPPB, NIGP-CPP Procurement Officer Worcester County, Maryland OCD-10/3/1t
REGAN J. R. SMITH ESQ. WILLIAMS, MOORE, SHOCKLEY & HARRISON LLP
3509 COASTAL HIGHWAY
OCEAN CITY, MD 21842
OF APPOINTMENT
NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 20366 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF WADE NEFF ROTH
Notice is given that Debra Mullen, 315 5th St., Walnutport, PA 18088-1318, was on September 24, 2024 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Wade Neff Roth who died on June 25, 2024, with a will.
Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal representative or the attorney.
All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent’s will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 24th 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 Reg-
ister of Wills.
Debra Mullen
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: October 03, 2024
OCD-10/3/3t
SMALL ESTATE NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE NO. 20347 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF CHRISTOPHER MICHAEL BRANTNER
Notice is given that Candy Brantner, 103 Nancy Ave., Berlin, MD 21811-1027, was on September 09, 2024 appointed personal representative of the small estate of Christopher Michael Brantner who died on July 22, 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.
Candy Brantner 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: October 3, 2024
OF APPLICATION FOR ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE LICENSE
Application has been made by the Undersigned for a "B" B/W /L 7 Day and Request to designate as Multiple License #2 for a Class: "B" BEER-WINE-LIQUOR License: 7 Day, By: Marc Anthony Custodio, 10215 Golf Course Road, Ocean City, Maryland 21842; Sherri Elizabeth Custodio, 10215 Golf Course Road, Ocean City, Maryland 21842.
For: Don't Be Jelly, LLC
For the premises known as and located at:
T/A: Jolly Jellyfish Beach Club 9800 Coastal Highway Ocean City, Maryland 21842
There will be a public hearing on the application in the Board Room, Room 1102 in the Government Center, Snow Hill, Maryland, on: October 16, 2024 @ 1:00 P.M.
The Board welcomes written or oral comment at said public hearing from any interested party.
OCD-10/3/2t
OF APPLICATION FOR ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE LICENSE
Application has been made by the Undersigned for a Transfer of a "B" B/W/L 7 Day and Request to designate as Multiple License #3 for a Class: "B" BEER-WINE-LIQUOR License: 7 Day, By: Meghan Leigh Newberger, 475 Dueling Way, Berlin, Maryland 21811; Heather Welch, 6834 Shockley Road, Snow Hill, Maryland 21863; Jason Welch, 6834 Shockley Road, Snow Hill, Maryland 21863.
For: Oaked at the Globe, LLC
For the premises known as and located at:
T/A: Oaked at the Globe 12 Broad Street Berlin, Maryland 21811 Formerly: Braddah Barney's LLC
There will be a public hearing on the application in the Board Room, Room 1102 in the Government Center, Snow Hill, Maryland, on: October 16, 2024 @ 1:10 P.M.
The Board welcomes written or oral comment at said public hearing from any interested party.
OCD-10/3/2t
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS
To all persons interested in the estate of L LORRAINE G. SIGISMONDI Estate No. 2 20355 Notice is given that PHYLLIS LARKINS HACKEL whose address is 985 COUNTRY CLUB DR., WOOSTER, OH 446911409 was on S SEPTEMBER 25, 2024 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of L LORRAINE G. SIGISMONDI who died on A AUGUST 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 2 25th day of M 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.
TERRI WESTCOTT, Register of Wills for Worcester County ONE W MARKET STREET ROOM 102 - COURT HOUSE SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1074
OCD-10/3/3t
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS
To all persons interested in the estate of J JOHN COLEMAN TIMMONS Estate No. 2 20365 Notice is given that L LINDA L. TIMMONS whose address is 7276 CHERRIX RD., SNOW HILL, MD 21863-4176 was on S SEPTEMBER 24, 2024 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of J JOHN COLEMAN TIMMONS who died on J JULY 05, 2024 with a will.
Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal representative or the attorney.
All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent's will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 2 24th day of M 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.
TERRI WESTCOTT, Register of
Wills for Worcester County ONE W MARKET STREET
ROOM 102 - COURT HOUSE
SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1074
OCD-10/3/3t
To all persons interested in the estate of J JOSEPH GEORGE COOK Estate No. 2 20363 Notice is given that DANA LYNN FELTON whose address is 4540 LASATER TRL., COLORADO SPGS., CO 80922-1619 was on S SEPTEMBER 24, 2024 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of J JOSEPH GEORGE COOK who died on S SEPTEMBER 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 2 24th day of M 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.
TERRI WESTCOTT, Register of Wills for Worcester County ONE W MARKET STREET ROOM 102 - COURT HOUSE SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1074 OCD-10/3/3t
TO CREDITORS OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVES ESTATE NO. 20369
NOTICE IS GIVEN that the C CIRCUIT court of W WINCHESTER CITY, VIRGINA appointed J JENNIFER P. SCHAEFER whose address is 301 TAMARACK CIR., WINCHESTER, VA 22602-6764 as the P PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE of the Estate of THERESA ANN PEACHEY AKA: THERESA MARKS PEACHEY who died on O OCTOBER 21, 2023 domiciled in V VIRGINIA, VIRGINA, USA
The Maryland resident agent for service of process is J JAMES E. CLUBB JR. whose address is 1 108 8TH ST., OCEAN CITY, MD 218423831. At the time of death, the decedent owned real or leasehold property in the following Maryland
counties: W WORCESTER
All persons having claims against the decedent must file their claims with the Register of Wills for WORCESTER COUNTY with a copy to the foreign personal representative on or before the earlier of the following dates:
(1) Six months from the date of the decedent’s death; or
(2) Two months after the foreign personal representative mails or delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claim within two months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. Claims filed after that date or after a date extended by law will be barred.
TERRI WESTCOTT, Register of Wills for Worcester County ONE W MARKET STREET ROOM 102 - COURT HOUSE SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1074 OCD-10/3/3t
SMALL ESTATE NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS
To all persons interested in the estate of M MARIAN JEAN THOMPSON Estate No. 2 20321 Notice is given that L LAUREN BAUER whose address is 5657 COLUMBIA RD., APT. 303, COLUMBIA, MD 210441988 was on S SEPTEMBER 24, 2024 appointed personal representative(s) of the small estate of M MARIAN JEAN THOMPSON 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 shall file their objections with the Register of Wills within 30 days after the date of publication of this Notice. All persons having an objection to the probate of the will shall file their objections with the Register of Wills within six months after the date of publication of this Notice.
All persons having claims against the decedent must serve their claims on the undersigned personal representative or file them with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates:
(1) Six months from the date of the decedent’s death; or
(2) Thirty days after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claim within thirty days from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. Any claim not served or filed within that time, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter.
TERRI WESTCOTT, Register of Wills for Worcester County ONE W MARKET STREET
OF PUBLIC HEARING
MAYOR & COUNCIL OF SNOW HILL, MARYLAND, TUESDAY, OCTOBER 29TH, 2024 at 5:00pm
Pursuant to the provision of the Snow Hill Town Charter Section 108 and Section 4-304 of the Local Government Article of the Annotated Code of Maryland notice is hereby given that a PUBLIC HEARING is scheduled on Tuesday, October 29, 2024, at 5:00 p.m. at the meeting of the Mayor and Council of Snow Hill at the Old Fire Hall, 212 West Green Street, in Snow Hill, Maryland,21863. The purpose of the Public Hearing is for public comment on:
1. Charter Resolution 2024-01, Amend Sections 18(b) and74(a)(3) of the Town Charter of Snow Hill to include the head of the Planning, Zoning, and Building Department in the list of department heads.
2. Charter Resolution 2024-02, Amend Section 11 of the Town Charter of Snow Hill to revise and clarify the process for adopting ordinances.
3. Charter Resolution 2024-03, Amend Section 13 of the Town Charter of Snow Hill to revise and clarify the process for referendums.
4. Charter Resolution 2024-04, Amend Section 58 of the Town Charter of Snow Hill to eliminate the requirement that a bond shall be submitted to referendum.
The public is cordially invited to attend and offer comments. For further information concerning this public hearing, please contact the Town Manager’s Office, 103 Bank Street, Snow Hill, Maryland, 21863, #410-632-2080.
OCD-10/3/2t
RKW LAW GROUP
DIANE S. KOTKIN ESQ. 10 N. JEFFERSON ST., STE. 200 FREDERICK, MD 21701-3500
TO CREDITORS OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE ESTATE NO. 20370
NOTICE IS GIVEN that the Orphans’ court of York County, Pennsylvania appointed Mark C. Magness, P.O. Box 313, Bel Air, MD 21014-0313; Catherine M. Young, 3017 Rocks Rd., Jarrettsville, MD 21084-1714 as the Executors of the Estate of Charles R. Magness Sr. who died on December 06, 2023 domiciled in Pennsylvania, America.
The Maryland resident agent for service of process is Diane S. Kotkin whose address is 10 N. Jefferson St., Ste. 200, Frederick, MD 21701-3500. 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 Worces-
ter 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.
Mark C. Magness
Catherine M. Young
Foreign Personal Representatives
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: October 03, 2024
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 22, 2024
At 7:00 PM
To consider amending Chapter 110, entitled Zoning, Article V, entitled Supplemental Regulations, Division 3, entitled Off-Street Parking, Section 110-935, entitled Design Standards, to allow tandem parking design, which does require another vehicle to be moved, to satisfy a portion of required residential parking (not including hotel and motel uses).
APPLICANT: PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION (PZ FILE #24-14100005) At 7:05 PM
To consider amending Chapter 110, entitled Zoning, Article II, entitled Administration and Enforcement, Division 8, entitled Site Plan Review, Section 110-184, entitled Amendments and Additions to allow Zoning Administrator to exempt minor structures less than 500 gross square feet from Planning Commission review in certain circumstances.
APPLICANT: PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION (PZ FILE #24-14100006) At 7:10 PM
To consider amending Chapter 110, entitled Zoning, Article V, entitled Supplemental Regulations, Division 1, entitled Generally, Section
110-886, entitled Employee Housing- Accessory and Non-Accessory, and Division 3, entitled Off-Street Parking, Section 110-932, entitled Minimum Number of Spaces, to allow, in certain circumstances, leased off-street parking to satisfy requirements for accessory employee housing, and to allow a reduction in required parking spaces for accessory employee housing.
APPLICANT: PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION (PZ FILE #24-14100007)
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.
AND ZONING COMMISSION
JOSEPH P. WILSON, CHAIRPERSON
MAUREEN HOWARTH, ESQ., ATTORNEY OCD-10/3/3t
Mayor & City Council Ocean City, Maryland
P02-25 – Eagles Landing Golf Course Improvements
The Mayor & City Council of
Ocean City is seeking Proposals from qualified and experienced Vendors to provide for the E Eagles Landing Golf Course Improvements and for said work to conform with the Proposal Documents.
BID Documents for the E Eagles Landing Golf Course Improvements 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 T THURSDAY, OCTOBER 24TH, 2024, AT 3:00PM. Addendum will be posted by close of business on T TUESDAY, OCTOBER 29TH, 2024
Sealed BID Documents are due no later than T TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 5TH, 2024, BY 3:00 PM. BID submissions will be opened, read aloud, and then remanded back to staff for further review at the P PROCUREMENT OFFICE CONFERENCE ROOM, ON FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 8TH, 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 (EEagles Landing Golf Course Improvements) 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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The TidalHealth Foundation is excited to announce a $100,000 matching gift challenge, thanks to a generous commitment from Sandy and Palmer Gillis, in support of its Drive for Mobile Mammography campaign to raise $1,000,000 for a mobile mammography unit. This initiative aims to expand access to life-saving breast cancer screenings in our communities.
Beginning Oct. 1, every dollar donated to the Drive for Mobile Mammography campaign will be matched by Sandy and Palmer Gillis up to $100,000. This matching contribution is being made in memory of Sandy's mother, Carol Carbine, who passed away in 2021 after a courageous battle with breast cancer. This match means that the impact of every contribution during the month of October will be doubled up to $100,000, bringing the Foundation closer to reaching its $1,000,000 goal to purchase and equip the mobile mammography unit.
“We are deeply grateful to Sandy and Palmer for this extraordinary act of generosity,” said Jessica Hales, TidalHealth Foundation president. “This matching gift provides an incredible opportunity to amplify the support
of our donors and make a direct impact on the health and well-being of women across our region.”
The mobile mammography unit will be equipped with state-of-the-art technology and staffed by trained healthcare professionals. It will travel throughout Sussex County, Delaware, and Worcester, Wicomico and Somerset counties in Maryland, ensuring that women who might not otherwise receive regular screenings are given the opportunity to detect breast cancer at an earlier and more treatable stage.
The matching gift challenge runs until Oct. 31, or until the $100,000 match is fully utilized.
Chesapeake Home Services has welcomed Steve Morrison as its new general manager. With over 10 years of experience in the HVAC industry, Morrison brings a wealth of knowledge and leadership expertise gained from collaborating with well-established companies.
Morrison will oversee all aspects of Chesapeake Home Services' operations, including front-line HVAC service, sales, plumbing, warehousing, and installation. He is focused on transparency and setting a clear vi-
sion for growth. He believes in creating an environment where staff feel empowered to contribute to the company’s overall success.
“We are thrilled to welcome Steve to the team,” said Kevin Bowman, president, Chesapeake Home Services. “His experience combined with his leadership skills will be a tremendous asset as we continue to grow and enhance our services. We are confident that Steve’s expertise and vision will help lead Chesapeake Home Services to new heights.”
“My experience allowed me to make a meaningful contribution towards helping companies grow from
modest beginnings to impressive successes,” Morrison said. “Chesapeake Home Services reminds me of a young Hutchinson. At Chesapeake Home Services, we have an opportunity to achieve similar growth. I have seen it happen.”
Advisor Shelby G. Tomlinson of NAI Coastal along with Principal and Broker Chris Davis announced the successful sale of 733 S. Salisbury Boulevard, the historic home of Kitty’s Flowers. Tomlinson and Davis repreContinued on Page 74
By Lauren Bunting Contributing Writer
MarylandHomeownership.com is a resource to help Marylanders navigate their home ownership journey with ease. The site is owned and managed by Maryland REALTORS®, the professional trade association that represents, educates, and provides guidance to its 28,000-plus members across the state.
One element on the website is a monthly webinar series entitled “Your Homebuying Keys”. Dan Patrell, director of strategic communications at Maryland REALTORS®, said, “This series has grown in popularity because of the solid information that comes from every panel. This includes our host, Lisa May, Director of Advocacy and Public Policy, as well as qualified REALTORS® who specialize in working with the first-time homebuyers, and experts from Freddie Mac and the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development.”
May added this about the webinar, "Entering the housing market in today's
9am-4pm, Sat 11am-
9am-4pm, Sat 11amFriday10am-Noon110
environment can be really daunting for a first-time buyer. We began 'Your Homebuying Keys' as an entry point for you to begin your homeownership journey. Our industry experts walk you through the homebuying and mortgage approval process, highlight fantastic grants and programs just for Maryland buyers, and answer your specific questions. It's free, there's no commitment, and you walk away with great information to help you on the path to homeownership."
REALTORS® can use this site to help their clients on their home journeys, whether it's buying or selling a home. Members can also "co-brand" the toolkits with their business logo, and can encourage their first-time buyer clients to sign up for free webinars, featuring member experts, plus guests from Freddie Mac and the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development. (The tool kits are available in English or Spanish.)
Lauren Bunting is the Broker of Record for Keller Williams Realty of Delmarva in Ocean City, Maryland.
Continued from Page 73
sented the sellers in this notable transaction, which marks the latest achievement in a series of successful deals that Tomlinson has facilitated for Kitty’s Flowers over the past few years.
“Shelby has been instrumental in helping us achieve our business growth and goals over the last few years,” said Ross Bradford of Kitty’s Flowers. “Her dedication to ensuring that every move we made was well thought out gave us the confidence we needed, knowing she always had our back, no matter what happened.”
In 2022, Kitty’s Flowers realized that their production needs had outgrown their Salisbury location, requiring a larger space to meet the demands of their growing multi-location business. Tomlinson was pivotal in securing a 12,000-square-foot warehouse to support their production, which now serves their four retail locations.
Following the successful relocation of their production facility, Kitty’s Flowers was ready to sell the long-standing retail space at 733 S. Salisbury Boulevard and downsize to a smaller storefront. Tomlinson and Davis worked collaboratively to represent Kitty’s Flowers in the sale of the 4,400-square-foot retail location, situated prominently on the bustling South Salisbury Boulevard.
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By Brian Shane Staff Writer
(Oct. 4, 2024) A proposed utilityscale solar power project on the edge of Berlin has been rejected by Worcester County leaders, though it still has a chance of being kept alive by state officials in the long run.
The developer, TurningPoint Energy, presented plans Tuesday for a 35-acre solar panel farm to the Worcester County Commissioners, who unanimously voted to reject the proposal.
District 3 Commissioner Eric Fiori expressed concerned about putting a renewable energy project on a site already designated for future growth and residential development.
“We have very limited access to public water and sewer in many of our districts,” he said. “So, we’re moving this large parcel – which was obviously by its zoning code, you know, designated for residential –pulling it, and putting solar panels on this particular property. It’s really kind of affecting the way we’ve planned the growth of Berlin and growth of Worcester County. I think there’s a lot of better sites than this particular one.”
The five-megawatt project slated for a triangular site off Old Ocean City Boulevard had been in the works for about 18 months. Documents provided by TurningPoint describe the site as having solar panels 15 feet tall, and about 4-by-8 feet in size. Construction would take about six to nine months. The project would connect to Delmarva Power conduits.
The solar farm would have a life expectancy of 35-40 years. Contingency funding to cover the cost of the county’s eventual decommissioning of the solar farm at the end of its useful life is a planning requirement of the developer.
TurningPoint could have started by applying for a solar farm certification from the state’s Public Service Commission (PSC), the body that oversees such projects in Maryland. Instead, it chose to open a line of dialogue first with county officials, according to Jennifer Keener, Worcester County’s director of development review and permitting.
Now, given officials’ rejection of the proposal, Keener said the county will prepare a letter sharing the commissioners’ views, which then will be sent to the PSC.
Regardless of the commissioners’ rejection, the project on its face likely faced an uphill battle anyway: Keener reported that the developer’s plans do not comport with Worcester County’s current zoning regulations – solar farms also aren’t allowed in any residential district without exception – or
Paid for by Peter Ayers Wimbrow III
By Brian Shane Staff Writer
(Oct. 4, 2024) A six-figure gift to Worcester County’s recreation department will pay tribute to a local family while breathing new life into a Pocomoke City public park.
County officials signed off Tuesday on receipt of a $438,342 donation from the Heather Leigh and Christopher Robbin Hill Foundation. Funds will go toward the purchase and installation of a new facility at Newtown Park. Worcester County officials said it will be the largest-ever county-owned playground.
“It’s a really sad story with a happy ending because we were able to make somebody’s dreams come true,” said Kathleen Palmer with the Hill Foundation.
This project comes with a one-ofa-kind theme – a focus on Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics, or STEM for short. Having a playground with STEM themes and brain-teasing activities encourages children to start learning and reaching for the future at a young age, according to the foundation.
Turning this dream into a reality
See FOUNDATION Page 78
Continued from Page 75
its comprehensive plan, which favors residential growth.
“Given the location of the property, it’s not consistent with our comprehensive plan. It’s in a growth area. I don’t find it consistent with our zoning because it’s in a zoning district that we don’t allow them in,” Keener told the commissioners Tuesday.
Despite local rejection of the proposal, the PSC could still green-light the project as it sees fit. Maryland courts held in 2019 that the PSC has final say in the siting of utility-scale projects, preempting local zoning. From there, a site plan would be subject to approval by the county’s Technical Review Committee and the Planning Commission, and would be subject to a public hearing.
TurningPoint Energy is a privately-held developer of large-scale solar farms, with eight of the company’s 25 total projects completed in Maryland. The company also has solar farms built in New Mexico, Rhode Island, Maine, Virginia, Pennsylvania, Colorado, and Texas.
Its largest project to date, a 200megawatt solar farm in New Mexico, went online June 1 and the company is now making plans to expand into Illinois and Delaware, according to information on its website.
(Oct. 4, 2024) The next Maryland Safe Boating Course is set for 6-9 p.m., Oct. 8-10, at the Ocean Pines Library.
The rouse offers a Maryland boating certification, which is NASBLA approved and valid in all states, and taught by certified instructors from the Ocean City Coast Guard Auxiliary. All of the required material is covered, along with information on local waters and nautical navigation.
The Maryland Boating Safety Education Act requires that any-
one born after July 1, 1972, must possess a Maryland Basic Boating Safety Certificate to operate a boat in the state of Maryland.
A fee of $20 covers the cost of the course and materials.
Checks should be made payable to: USGCAUX 12-05 and mailed to USCGAUX 12-05, P.O. Box 1682, Berlin, MD 21811
Payment via PayPAL is also accepted.
For more information, contact Barry Cohen at 410-935-4807 or email CGAUXOC@gmail.com.
Continued from Page 77
was the culmination of a lifelong goal of the late Leona and Bob Hill of Pocomoke City. The couple navigated their way through two deep family tragedies, the first when they lost their son Christopher at age 4 to meningitis.
His sister, their daughter Heather, graduated from Pocomoke High School and went on to work in the field of medical research, specifically to look for cancer cures. Heather lost her battle with ovarian cancer at age 34. Having a scientific theme for the playground was Heather’s idea.
Worcester County Recreation and Parks worked with playground architect Cunningham Recreation to design a playground that would fit their needs, according to Deputy Director Jacob Stephens. The space will be named in honor of both Christopher and Heather Hill.
Palmer said that the playground will also feature a separate “memory garden” as a place of quiet reflection to honor the Hills. Leona died in 2016 from lymphoma, and Bob died from diabetes complications in 2023.
“These people lost both their children and they managed to keep a smile on their face. They just had a lot of death in their family. They were just two remarkable people, and so the memory garden, I guess, is to honor them, for everything they went through. They keep their faith
and they just always had a smile on their face,” she said.
It took almost 25 years of donations, bingo nights, and fundraising for friends and family to reach the funding amount of $450,000. The Hills left everything they had, including the sale of their house, to the foundation.
“We suddenly had a lot of money, not just a little, but a lot,” Palmer said.
Once they met their fundraising threshold, the foundation needed a site for the playground. Palmer eventually connected with Caryn Abbott, Pocomoke’s representative on the Worcester County Board of Commissioners, who put the foundation in touch with the parks department.
“She said, ‘We have been trying to get this done for this family for years,’” Abbott said. “Once they told me the story, I said, ‘This is something that needs to get done.’ It worked out perfectly.
Abbot added,“It’s sad that the father died in 2023, and it’s just so sad they could not have seen it come to fruition. It’s phenomenal to see the sketches that they did. It’s going to be amazing.”
Money raised toward the playground also will fund scholarships to graduating seniors from Pocomoke High School who wish to pursue a career in a STEMrelated field.
Construction is set to begin this winter with the playground completed by spring, according to Stephens.
By Tara Fischer Staff Writer
(Oct. 4, 2024) The Berlin Town Council will remain as is.
On Tuesday, Oct. 1, Berlin voters headed to the polls to cast their ballots for the town’s only contested race, a match between District 3 incumbent Shaneka Nichols and challenger Daniel Packey.
Nichols held her District 3 seat with 62 votes to capture a second term. Packey received four votes. Nichols defeated Packey in 2020 for her first term.
Nichols is a special education teacher at Worcester County Public Schools and a mother of six. Her roots run deep in Berlin, as 10 generations of her family have lived on Flower Street. Nichols said during the 2020 election that a priority of hers was the construction of a community center. The victor currently sits on the town’s steering committee to further the project.
That community center is nearing fruition, as four parcels of Flower Street property have been combined to create a recreational building through a partnership with the Berlin Community Improvement Association, SHOREUP! Inc., and the Worcester County Commissioners. The site is the former home of Flower Street School, an African American education facility that operated in the first part of the 20th century. Nichols will now get to continue aiding these efforts as she captured a second term Tuesday night.
“This win was huge to continue on to completion of the many projects that we have going on within the Town of Berlin,” she said. “I truly appreciate my constituents support of my return to the council on their behalf. I hear them, and will continue to listen to the many voices of Berlin.”
Challenger Packey moved to Berlin in 2019. He has a background in economics and has taught the subject as a professor in the United States and Australia.
The District 3 match-up was Berlin’s only contested race. District 2 Councilman Jack Orris and Mayor Zack Tyndall were unopposed this year.
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challenging of the three days,” he said. “The effect of the rain changed the movement pattern. People were coming and going at different times than we were prepared for. It was a pretty significant disruption. We did our best to adjust, but the weather often is not always predictable. I also feel like the weather contributed to the overall mood and frustration of attendees. When everyone is drenched head to toe, their patience evaporates, which we understand.”
While acknowledging Friday’s setback, Shearman said the transit system was back on track Saturday and Sunday. He said the city had hired more drivers this year, which had helped in transporting more than 79,000 people throughout the weekend – a 10% increase in ridership from the year prior.
“We had better staffing this year than last year, and I still feel like we could have used more drivers on the road,” he said. “We were fairly overloaded for key movement times, but for the most part I think we improved our service and were much better prepared tactically.”
Shearman said the transit system recorded 29,600 riders on Friday, 26,400 on Saturday and 23,700 on Sunday. City Manager Terry McGean said those transportation numbers even exceeded those reported for the Fourth of July.
“Our city team did a fantastic job all around including carrying over 79,000
bus riders during the three days,” he said. “To put that in perspective, this July 4th (typically our busiest bus day of the year) we had 20,191 riders. We carried 25% more than that every day of the event including almost 30,000 riders on Friday through the heavy rains and flooding.”
Both McGean and Meehan recognized C3 Presents and various city departments for making the weekend a success. Officials, including those in the public safety sector, also acknowledged the attendees at this year’s festival.
“The Oceans Calling Festival was a hit,” Ocean City Police Department Deputy Communications Manager Ashley Miller said this week. “From a public safety perspective, we had very few issues. The crowd that Oceans Calling draws is very respectful. We had many officers throughout the downtown area to assist with pedestrian and vehicle traffic flow. There were some traffic delays, which is expected with any significant event. We could keep traffic moving while ensuring we kept pedestrians safe. Residents and visitors can expect to see the same level of service for the Country Calling festival this upcoming weekend.”
Ocean City Tourism and Business Development Director Tom Perlozzo said 55,000 tickets were sold for this year’s Oceans Calling Festival, and attendance ranged between 49,000 and 50,700 the first two days. He said the event showcased all the city has to offer.
“The weekend was fantastic,” he said. “It’s proven to be a giant economic catalyst and a huge success. Music was awesome and we showed off Oceans City’s beautiful beach and vibe, ‘Somewhere to Smile About.’”
As was the case last year, several businesses in and around the festival grounds – which spanned from North Division Street to the Inlet – reported strong sales throughout the weekend. At Bull on the Beach, Manager Brad Wells said his team had learned from last year’s event and were better prepared to handle the crowds.
“It was an absolutely wonderful weekend,” he said. “We had planned on doing 15% more business than in 2023, and we ended up doing about 18% more each day. That translated to 54.5% over all three days as an increase in business from last year.”
The same can be said for Buxy’s Salty Dog Saloon. Owner Douglas “Buxy” Buxbaum said kitchen hours were expanded, and adjustments were made this year to better serve festival goers walking to and from the Inlet.
“It was a shot in the arm,” he said. “It was busier than summer business. September is running right there with July these days. We just ask that the city keeps it up.”
Kevin Gibbs of The Dough Roller praised officials for putting together an-
other successful Oceans Calling Festival. While his sales were similar to last year, he said operations had improved. This year, staffing at The Dough Roller matched that of a typical Fourth of July holiday.
“Oceans Calling went great,” he said. “It’s gotten better year after year so far.”
Shenanigan’s owner Greg Shockley agreed, adding that business picked up Thursday night and continued throughout the weekend. He said the festival also brought newcomers to town.
“It was a really good crowd, and from my conversations I learned they were from everywhere,” he said. “This event brings people to Ocean City that wouldn’t normally come to Ocean City. That’s one of the hidden benefits, introducing people to Ocean City.”
Michael James, president of James Hospitality, which manages several hotels throughout the resort including the landmark Carousel in north Ocean City, said the economic impact went beyond the three-day festival, as attendees started arriving as early as Wednesday and leaving as late as Monday. He said the Oceans Calling Festival is a welcome addition to the fall special events calendar, particularly following a softer-thanexpected summer season.
“It was a very good weekend and a great crowd,” he said. “And it’s a fantastic event for the town and the business community.”
Susan Jones, executive director for the Ocean City Hotel-Motel-Restaurant Association, said Oceans Calling did exactly what businesses hoped it would do – put heads in beds and people in restaurant seats.
“Overall, I would say it was a wonderful weekend that brought a lot of visitors; many who had no idea Ocean City, Maryland existed,” she said. “Hotels had great crowds and many restaurants I spoke with were pleased with the weekend.”
Several business owners, however, said staffing continues to be a challenge this year. Both Gibbs and Shockley
pointed out those issues could potentially worsen for Country Calling, as most J-1 workers’ visas expire on Oct. 1.
“Staffing is tough,” Shockley said. “We’re at the end of our season with domestic and J-1 workers … It’s a push up. But we shortened our menu and made internal adjustments for not being completely staffed.”
With another Oceans Calling Festival in the books, officials are now preparing for the first-ever Country Calling Festival, to be held Oct. 4-5 within the same festival footprint at the south end of the beach and Boardwalk.
Latvia’s largest city was once part of Sweden, then largest Russian empire port
By Peter Ayers Wimbrow III Contributing Writer
This week, 80 years ago, the Red Army recaptured the 750-year-old city of Riga, which is, and was, the capital of, and largest city in, Latvia. Today, the city has a population of 600,000, which is one-third of Latvia’s population. Less than half of the city’s population are Latvian, while 35.7 % are Russian and 3.6% are Belorussian. The city is located on the Gulf of Riga, at the mouth of the Daugava (Dvina) River.
Latvia had only been an independ-
ent country since the end of WWI in 1918. Prior to that, it had been, from 1611, a part of the Kingdom of Sweden, and then, beginning in 1710 it was incorporated in three stages over 85 years into the Russian Empire. While a part of the Swedish Kingdom, Riga was the largest city in Sweden and later was the largest port in the Russian Empire.
On Oct. 5, 1939, Latvia, with the Red Army at its doorstep, and the German Wehrmacht and the Red Army having just divided Poland between them, executed an agreement
with the U.S.S.R., allowing the Soviets to station troops within Latvian borders.
Similar agreements were reached with the two other Baltic countries of Lithuania and Estonia. Knowing what lay ahead for Latvia, Hitler arranged for the repatriation of all ethnic Germans from Latvia and the other Baltic countries.
By early 1940, 51,000 had been relocated from Latvia to the German Reich. Most were resettled in areas recently incorporated into the Reich from Poland and given homes that had been “vacated” by their Polish owners.
On March 25, 1940, Soviet Foreign Minister Vyacheslav Molotov ob-
Continued on Page 83
(Sept. 27, 2024) Lower Shore Autism Community, Inc.’s application to become a Partner Agency of United Way of the Lower Eastern Shore was approved at the July meeting of the United Way’s board of directors. Highlights of this partnership include:
• Access to ALICE data and Wellness Made Easy information
• Get Connected volunteer recruitment platform
• Inclusion in various United Way activities
• Inclusion in the United Way annual campaign so donors can designate gifts of $50 or more
• Access to funding and fundraising assistance, as well as some financial assistance
Lower Shore Autism Community, Inc. was established in 2021 as a community-based organization serving Dorchester, Somerset, Wicomico, and Worcester counties, starting primarily in Wicomico County, and has been slowly expanding into the rest of the Lower Eastern Shore service area. The organization is a 501(c)(3) organization recognized by the Internal Revenue Service and the Maryland Secretary of State as a registered charity.
The nonprofit currently has seven board members with the potential to add more. A total of 51% of the board must be or have a family member on the autism spectrum.
Events include monthly family support meetings, teen and youth adult social club meetings, a First Responder Meet and Greet (Sept. 15, at Winterplace Park), and Autumn Fall Gathering, a Holiday Gathering, and an Annual Family Fun Day.
For more information, contact Clay Belgie, president, at clay@lsautism.org, or call 443-5235315, or visit lowershoreautism.org or on Facebook.
United Way of the Lower Eastern Shore (headed by Pam Gregory, the president and CEO) is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization serving Dorchester, Somerset, Wicomico, and Worcester counties. The organization is governed by a local volunteer board of directors, who represent all communities served on the Eastern Shore.
The United Way has a Community Impact Committee comprised of local volunteers who invest over 1,100 hours annually to visit and analyze each agency’s application including budgets, programs, and efficiency in meeting local needs. Funds are approved by the board of directors based on annual campaign fundraising and are distributed monthly to approved partner agency programs.
For more information, contact the UWLES office at 410-742-5143, or visit uwles.org.
Continued from Page 82
served that, “. . . the execution of the pacts progressed satisfactorily and created conditions favorable for a further improvement of the relations between the Soviet Union and these States.”
In June 1940, Molotov accused the Baltic states of conspiring against the Soviet Union. As the world’s attention was focused on the fall of France and the sound of German jackboots goose-stepping down the Avenue des Champs-Élysées in the French capital, hundreds of thousands of Soviet troops occupied the three countries, in, “... a “further improvement” of the relations between the Soviet Union and these States.” Elections were held on July 14, with the results announced in Moscow 12 hours before the polls closed!
On July 21, 1940, the Estonian, Lithuanian and Latvian Soviet Socialist Republics were formed and “requested” admission into the U.S.S.R., which was granted, forthwith. They became the 12th, 13th and 14th members, respectively, of the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics, during the first week of August 1940.
Immediately, young men were conscripted into the Red Army, skilled workers were taken to work in Russian factories and the educated were shipped to gulags in Siberia. During the first year of the “dictatorship of the proletariat” in Latvia,
35,000 Latvians were relocated — one way or another.
Elements of Armeegruppe North, commanded by Field Marshal Wilhelm Ritter von Leeb, as a part of “Operation Barbarrosa,” entered the Latvian capital of Riga, on July 1, 1941. Latvians who had been conscripted into the Red Army deserted in droves, with many turning on their erstwhile comrades and capturing various Latvian villages ahead of the Germans. By July 10, the entire country was occupied by the Germans.
The Siege of Leningrad was lifted on Jan. 27, 1944. From that point, the Leningrad Front, commanded by Marshal Leonid Govorov, steadily drove Armeegruppe North, now commanded by Johannes Frießner, back toward Germany. On Feb. 2, 1944, Marshal Govorov’s Leningrad Front assaulted Axis troops on the Narva River, in Estonia.
The Red Army launched Operation Bagration on June 22, 1944, against Armeegruppe Center, which was utterly destroyed. Subsequently, First, Second and Third Baltic Fronts, commanded by Armenian Ivan Bagramyan, Ukrianian Andrei Yeremenko, and Russian Ivan Ivanovich Maslennikov, swung to their right and headed for the Baltic coast.
Gen. Frießner requested permission to withdraw Armeegruppe North to shorten his lines and to avoid being
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The biggest problem with the continuing discussion of wind farm installations off the coast of Ocean City is that it continues to be a continuing discussion.
If the above sentence sounds confusing, it’s no more so than what’s been said about this evolving topic during its 13 years of talks, hearings, promises and revisions.
Outside of Ocean City’s elected officials and numerous businesspeople and residents who oppose having to see anything on the horizon except the occasional passing ship and whatever the natural world provides, those who aren’t sure what to think face a constantly changing circumstance.
For instance, more than a decade ago when then Gov. Martin O’Malley planted his flag on the side of offshore wind energy development, the turbines of choice were 400 feet tall, with 256 feet of that above the water line. Now, from the bottom of the tower to the tip of the rotor it’s 938 feet.
At the same time, the westernmost point of the proposed wind farm project off Ocean City has been quoted as being 10 miles off the beach during the O’Malley administration, then 11.5 miles, followed by 17 miles, then to more than 20. Currently, the closest turbine to the beach would be 10.8 statute miles, according to the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management.
Meanwhile, BOEM has said the western edge of the lease area is (pick one) 8.7 nautical miles, 10 statute miles and 10 nautical miles. As it happens, 8.7 nautical miles is 10 statute miles.
The point is that the turbines have gotten much taller, the possible location of turbines has shifted, and a second possible lease area off the Mid-Atlantic coast is being considered.
Offshore wind development has been tough to track ever since President George W. Bush initiated the push with his signing of the Energy Policy Act.
It’s been tough to keep up, especially for those who want an informed opinion on what will or could happen just off this beach.
When people ask you how you’ve been or how your weekend was, you sometimes wish you could come out with something bizarre, as in anything besides “fine,” “good,” “not bad” or any of the other routinely used but ill-defined terms that don’t really say anything at all.
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By Stewart Dobson
You’d like to say something with impact like, for instance, “Let’s see. On Saturday, I spent the afternoon practicing the sleeper hold on myself, and on Sunday I either misplaced my gall bladder or I was visited by organ harvesters during my mid-afternoon nap. Other than that, pretty good, I guess.”
But no, we don’t want to get into an extended conversation about what we did and where we went on the weekend or any other time of the week, because, frankly, no one wants to hear it.
In my case, a full accounting of the past seven days would take several hours to explain what went wrong and why.
The executive summary, however, is this: My week began with a computer needing a system upgrade that, once completed, rendered it completely useless as far as communicating with the other computers is concerned.
That, of course, led to upgrading the sys-
tems on all the other computers, a task that meant sitting at a desk and watching a tiny readout on the screen that says, “In progress, 37 minutes left,” which, of course, really meant, “This upgrade will finish when it’s good and ready, capiche?”
Somewhere in the course of that period I ate a chicken burrito that should have been carbon dated before I ate it. Otherwise, I would have known its sell-by date came and went right around the time King Richard returned from the Crusades, and thus was more of a museum piece than it was lunch.
I won’t go into the effects, except to say I suspect that the Orioles suffered in similar fashion during their two-game here-and-gone playoff experience this week.
Oh, and the dog bit me. And even though I’ve been told it was probably an accident, I’m not so sure the way things have been going recently.
That would include, the total collapse of one of our network systems, which I understand about as much as the reasoning behind staging a vice-presidential debate that conflicted with “Dancing With the Stars,” one of my favorites.
Okay, not really, because it does seem to me that “Dancing with the Stars” and a vicepresidential debate are similar in that the main contestants in both are people you might have heard of but don’t know why.
So, you ask, how was my week? Oh, fine. Just .... fine.
We invite you to share your opinion, but all letters are subject to verification, so please include your name and phone number. All letters are subject to editing for space and to protect the author and this newspaper from legal action. Email letters to editor@oceancitytoday.net. For questions, call 410-723-6397.
By Steve Green
After last weekend’s Oceans Calling Festival, organizers sent out an extensive survey – featuring about 70 opportunities for feedback in total – to all attendees. It was detailed and shows how much organizers care about the experience. For instance, it asked how much money was spent on alcohol and food through the festival as well as the Boardwalk outlets and offered opportunities for written insights to be shared throughout. It was an exhaustive survey, but I invested time in being constructive because this festival is a huge positive for Ocean City and the area. There were difference experiences betwen the two years, thought. Some of my takeaways from attending all three days this year as well as last include:
• The wet weather of Friday night seemed to have lasting impacts through the whole weekend. On Friday, after a dry afternoon, the rain started about 6 p.m. and did not stop. The heaviest rains began around 8 p.m. and only got worse as the evening went on. The conditions were horrible, and the wind and sideways rain made it difficult to enjoy, and even hear, the music. Though no reason was ever given, Friday night headliner Blink 182 was 45 minutes late taking the stage. The lack of communication upset many folks, understandably, and I was among the thousands who left early due to being soaked and confusion over whether the event was even still on. Workers had no idea either.
• On Saturday and Sunday, the weather was outstanding. Though the festival grounds showed no ill effects of the multiple inches of rain that fell Friday night, sound issues were prevalent on the two main stages on Saturday and Sunday. There were times when my group was standing directly in front of a bank of speakers far from the stage, and we could not hear the band. If attendees were not up close to the stage, the sound was poor. This was unfortunate and a constant complaint heard throughout the event and on social media.
• After attending the two festivals over the last two years, the biggest takeaway was how much more crowded it was this year. Officials maintain only 5,000 more tickets were sold than last year. If that’s true, then there is a security issue because the crowds were far denser than last year. This is an observation shared by most who attended. There is no doubt in my mind far more people were in attendance this year than last year. It’s something officials will need to explore because the experience was different due to the increased number of people. It’s impossible to quantify how many more people were in attendance but it was significant and obvious to those who attended both years. There are far more positives than negatives with this festival, but one shared takeaway was bigger crowds, making traversing between the stages difficult especially with the new and larger blanket area that was poorly located to allow for good flow of attendees. The blanket area should be pushed toward the east near the fencing before the ocean next year.
• Walking around the venue with family members from West Virginia reminded me how special and unique the venue is in Ocean City. The festival grounds run from N. Division Street to the Inlet and include the beach and Boardwalk as well as the rides at Jolly Roger. Listening to national bands while watching the waves crash nearby or the sun setting is special. Furthermore, being able to take a break and enjoy the amusement rides (included in the cost of admission) is super cool. Hearing the positive perspective of visitors was special.
• After two years, there seems to be little Ocean City can do to meet the transportation demands as the festival wraps up each night. The city said it carried approximately 79,000 people on mass transit over the three days, representing about a 10% increase with the average per night ridership of about 26,000. This means the remaining folks either walked, drove or biked. A couple I met Sunday from Syracuse said they gave up on mass transit after the first night. Instead, they walked each night to their hotel at the Aloft stopping along the way at bars for a drink and some food to break up the walk. They acknowledged it was far but “it is what it is,” the woman said before saying, “it’s worth it.” It speaks to the laidback attitude of the festival attendees. My group parked in West Ocean City and made the walk each night. The crowds traversing over the bridge each night was far greater this year.
• A major takeaway once again from the event is the vast festival tourism impact. Six years ago, the last September weekend in Ocean City was dominated by miscreants in town to cause ruckus with their vehicles and trash the city. Long gone is the H2Oi crowd and replaced by thousands of people looking for a good time with disposable incomes to support nearly all segments of the economy. Amid the downpours of Friday night, strangers giggled together at the absurdity of it all. There we all were as miserable as it gets but laughing because there was nothing else to do with sideways rain caused by blustery conditions.
In a recent editorial you asked your readers to “ask (OC Council) candidates what they’ll do” Great question.
Our current Ocean City Council, in my opinion, puts the interests of developers vastly over the interests of our existing neighborhoods and taxpayers to the point where we, as taxpayers, subsidize developers’ projects and profit. We suffer as these abuses are allowed to continue. As an example, when the town’s own volunteer Planning and Zoning Commission make code change recommendations to improve and protect neighborhoods the recommendations made to the Council, they are basically ignored time and time again. I have over 10 years’ experience with this and the Council and their treatment. Please don’t blame the P & Z commission when you are upset about a project.
Code change recommendations arise when the P & Z Commission sees code abuses and development product type changes which show a need for correction. One clear example is the case with what is occurring
at the North end of our Town and is a complete abuse of the intent of the Council’s adopted comprehensive plan as well as the town’s parking code itself. Does anyone besides the developers think that this is what we want for our Town? Without correction, and the continued poor design and marketing misrepresentation, these types of projects create havoc for existing neighborhoods if allowed to continue without proper code changes. If I lived in Little Salisbury, Cain Woods or other Ocean City similar neighborhoods, I would be deeply concerned about projects like what is being constructed at the North end of town being developed nearby, coming to your neighborhood. Predicting the future, if you think your on-street parking is challenged now, wait until you get the overflow from this type of project as we have experienced in my tiny little neighborhood due to the projects parking deficiencies. This issue and others like them negatively impact the livability and property values of our communities’ neighborhoods. Furthermore as the Council consistantly ignores recommendations from its volunteer committees, volunteerism itself takes a toll and seems to be a waste of time.
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Volunteerism is the glue that binds a community, albeit coaching teams, your church, homeless shelter, fire departments or volunteering for committees of our town. When leadership consistently ignores recommendations, it negatively impacts a tremendous community asset which is that of our citizen input who may just happen to know and understand something that the Council does not. Staff time and expense, legal time and expense, public hearing time and expense and most importantly resident time. When recommendations are rejected, without leadership dialogue, it becomes the beginning of erosion of civic engagement and dialogue. This takes away from the desire to improve our community. A downward spiral that no community wants.
Currently all incumbent Council members, including one council member who is now a mayoral candidate, have rejected protections for our existing neighborhoods and essentially protects the developer community to the detriment of our existing neighborhoods.
So ask incumbent Council members why they refuse to act to correct neighborhood harmful and deficient code. Ask the candidates if they will put our communities existing neighborhoods first and as a priority and act on studied code changes. I support candidates who have the experience and wisdom to see problems before they occur and who act and can see the future instead of reacting to issues after they have become a problem at great expense to our neighborhoods.
Palmer Gillis Ocean City
(The writer is a member of the Ocean City Planning and Zoning Commission.)
Vote no on statewide ballot question in Nov. Editor,
Did you know there are no legal restrictions on abortion in Maryland? Not one.
That being the case, you have to wonder why the Democrats in the legislature have proposed an amendment to the Maryland constitution that will establish abortion as a constitutional right. They can’t seriously think that the State of Mary:land, with its 2:1 Democrat voter majority, will ever pass legislation restricting abortion rights.
This issue will be Question One on the ballot this year. The following is the text of the Reproductive Freedom Amendment:
“That every person, as a central component of an individual’s right to liberty and equality, has the fundamental right to reproductive freedom, including but not limited to the
ability to make and effectuate the decisions to prevent, continue, or end one’s pregnancy. The State may not, directly or indirectly, deny, burden, or abridge the right, unless justified by a compelling state interest achieved by the least restrictive means.”(Bolding intentional).
I humbly ask all readers to carefully consider this amendment and note that there are no age parameters (“Individual” includes everyone, of any age) and that it is very broad in the “right” granted (“Not limited” how? To what?). A Republican Senator offered an amendment to this Reproductive Freedom Amendment that would require parental consent for minors, but this was rejected. Why?
Why was this amendment rejected? Why do some politicians think parents should not know about or participate in their child’s life alternating decisions and who is encouraging these decisions? And, seriously, do you really think this will be limited to abortion?
Even parents who are full-throated proponents of abortion, which is, again, completely unrestricted in Maryland, should be very cautious about this and carefully consider their votes on this amendment to the Maryland constitution.
The purpose of this amendment is to override parents’ rights and to
allow the state, through the public education system, to encourage minors’ life altering decisions without parental knowledge or consent.
Jan Kolesky Berlin
Editor,
Last week’s letter to the editor by Michael Ryan perfectly spells out concerns about construction of wind turbines off the coast of Ocean City. Without question, the turbines will destroy the view of the ocean from the beach, boardwalk and oceanfront buildings.
In that regard, the duplicity of the wind turbine proponents is disturbing. Initial discussion was for turbines of smaller stature placed 24 miles offshore. Subsequently, the size increased dramatically and the proximity to the shore (thus visibility) moved to 10 miles. There is even current talk of wind turbines 3 miles off the coast. The result of construction and location of the turbines will be disastrous for shorebirds, waterfowl, fish migration, and marine mammals. Additionally, commercial fishing will be seriously negatively affected.
What is overlooked is the effect of
locating offices and docking facilities for U.S. Wind is West Ocean City and its harbor. West OC is a working commercial fishing harbor with thriving restaurants, a marina, and launching ramps. U.S. Wind wants to alter the infrastructure of the harbor to accommodate their maintenance vessels. This can result in dangerous boat traffic for recreational boaters. Even worse, a maintenance base would bring a significant increase in truck traffic to the area. Roads cannot bear this.
Citizens of Worcester County, property owners living elsewhere, and visitors who enjoy Ocean City need to make their opposition to wind turbines known by contacting all involved and, if necessary, demonstrating their displeasure when the time arrives.
Dennis
W
Sirman Selbyville, Delaware
Editor,
We’ve all heard the expression “Be careful what you wish for - you just might get it!”
This has come across my mind a few times lately when pondering the Board of Education race here in Worcester County.
Worcester is blessed with a darn good public education system (best in the state by most metrics), which is largely due to parents, the school leadership, including the superintendent and staff, and the elected Board of Education. We also receive, by far, the lowest funding from the state.
That said, do we have problems? Yes. Are some things happening that concern me and others? Yes.
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The vast majority of the problems are created by overbearing state and federal “involvement” in what is, constitutionally, a local matter. The fact is that, for the last few decades, this extra-constitutional involvement has increased to the point that local school districts have very little control over much of anything, from discipline to curriculum. This involvement (a better word is, perhaps, CONTROL) has created a situation that leaves the parents out of a process and decisions that are absolutely within the parents’ purview, and not the concern of the public school system. We also, unfortunately, have a great number of parents who really don’t “parent”, which puts the school system in a bad situation. It is difficult, if not impossible, to teach children who are undisciplined and have no respect for authority or rules.
In 2016, a search for a new superintendent of schools was initiated, coordinated by the Maryland State Board of Education. The applicant pool was whittled down over time to two finalists. I volunteered to serve on the citizen committee considering the qualifications of the applicants. The MSBE’s preference was Dr. Michael Martirano. We (and the other local committees) chose Lou Taylor.Thank God. Mr. Martirano
later took the job of Superintendent of the Howard County school system and a couple of years later was instrumental in adopting a redistricting plan based on family wealth. Yes, I said family wealth.
I believe this is where I point out that Worcester County dodged a very large bullet.
We could very easily have been saddled with Mr. Martirano with his radical ideas and he would have had the full support of the State of Maryland. Think about that for a few minutes.
In closing, I ask - is any school system perfect? No. Is any superintendent, staff member, teacher, board member perfect? No. Are there problems? Yes. But the accusations and criticisms leveled by some county commissioners and citizens and BOE candidates against the school leadership and Board of Education members has been outrageous. I don’t think some of the candidates for the Board of Education understand the delicate dance our Board members must undertake to keep from running afoul of the all-powerful state agencies.
Sometimes I wonder if these candidates understand that we live in Maryland. If you have ever run a business, tried to make a living at farming or commercial fishing, run a local government (such as a County
Continued from Page 82
cutoff and surrounded, which request was denied. After a subsequent request was also denied, Hitler, on July 23, replaced him with Col.-Gen. Ferdinand Schörner.
Gen. Bagramyan’s First Baltic Front reached the 700-year-old town of Tukums on the west side of the Bay of Riga on July 30. This separated Gen. Schörner’s Armeegruppe North from Armeegruppe Center. However, a German counterattack on Aug. 18, closed the gap between the two Armeegruppes by creating an 18mile-wide corridor along the Baltic Sea between the two.
On Sept. 14, 1944, the four Soviet
Continued from Page 86
Commission) you should understand. The state government is all-powerful and has its hands on everything. Add to that the most left-wing Federal Government we have ever had that issues executive orders like toilet paper.
For years I bragged on Worcester County because we always seemed to work together for the best interests of the residents and taxpayers. There was a cohesiveness that was really refreshing. I can’t say I feel that way anymore. Some of the things that have been said to and about leaders in the school district and some board members have been painful to witness. And, in my opinion, completely uncalled for.
Voters should carefully consider their votes in November. The state and federal governments do not take kindly to being challenged, and we could find ourselves in the position of “getting what we asked for.”
Carol Frazier Ocean Pines
We invite you to share it, but all letters are subject to verification, so please include your name and phone number. All letters are subject to editing for space and to protect the author and this newspaper from legal action. Email letters to editor@oceancitytoday.net. For questions, call 410-723-6397.
Fronts, with a combined total of 1,500,000 troops, 17,500 guns and rocket launchers, 3,000 armored fighting vehicles, and 2,600 planes, launched an offensive against Gen. Schörner’s Armeegruppe North.
Three days later, Marshal Govorov’s Leningrad Front broke through the Axis troops on the Narva River, in Estonia, and Gen. Schörner requested, and received, permission to evacuate Estonia. The following evening, Gen. Schörner issued the withdrawal orders. By Sept. 26, Estonia was cleared of Axis soldiers.
The Second and Third Baltic Fronts, commanded by Gens. Yeremenko and Maslennikov began attacking Riga. By Sept. 22, Gen. Yeremenko’s Second Baltic Front was 15 miles from the city. The Latvian capital was defended by II, L and VI SS, Korps, commanded by Wilhelm Hasse, Hans Boeckh-Behrens, and Walther Krüger.
Gens. Hasse and Boeckh-Behrens would die in Soviet captivity. SSObergruppenführer Krüger committed suicide in May 1945 after the surrender. These three corps were a part of Sixteenth Army, commanded by Carl Hilpert. Obergruppenfürher Krüger’s SS Korps composed of the 15th and 19th SS Latvian divisions, commanded by Herbert von Obwurzer and Bruno Streckenbach.
Thus the two divisions of Latvian
soldiers were now defending their nation’s capital against the Red Army’s onslaught.
By Oct. 10, Soviet Fifty-First Army, commanded by Yakov Grigorevich Kreizer, had recaptured the 800year-old town of Polangen on the Lithuanian coast of the Baltic Sea, isolating Gen. Schörner’s Armeegruppe North once again.
In recognition of this state of affairs, Gen. Schörner’s Armeegruppe North was renamed Armeegruppe Kurland, since it was now trapped in the Courland Peninsula. Gen. Schörner decided to withdraw from Riga, after obtaining der Fürher’s permission, in order to shorten the Armeegruppe ’s lines and make its position more defensible. On Oct. 13, units of Gen. Maslennikov’s Third Baltic Front entered the Latvian capital. Subsequently, this Front was eliminated by the Soviet high command and its armies dispersed amongst other fronts.
By the Wehrmacht’s withdrawal, the Red Army was denied the opportunity, and excuse, to turn the Latvian capital into another Stalingrad. The Axis soldiers retreated into the Courland Peninsula, where they would remain trapped until the war’s end, when 190,000 Axis soldiers, including 42 generals and 14,000 Latvians, marched into Soviet captivity.
For their part in the victory, Gens.
Bagramyan and Yeremenko were named Heros of the Soviet Union, and awarded the gold star. Gen. Yeremenko was also awarded his second Order of Lenin. Both generals would become Marshals of the Soviet Union in 1955.
Ferdinand Schörner became the 23rd soldier to receive the Diamonds to his Knight’s Cross, on Jan. 1, 1945, and was promoted to Field Marshal on April 5, 1945. After the war, in August 1951, he was charged by the Soviets with War Crimes, convicted, and sentenced, in February 1952, to 25 years’ incarceration.
He was released in 1955 and charged by West Germany with the execution of German soldiers for desertion, convicted and sentenced to four and a half years in prison. He was released on August 4, 1960.
At his death in 1973, he was the last remaining German field marshal. Gen. Hilpert was charged by the Soviets with war crimes convicted and sentenced to death. He was executed on Feb. 1, 1947.
Next week: Battle of Debrecen 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.
MARGARET A. REEVE-MOHRFELD
Berlin
Margaret A. Reeve-Mohrfeld (Peggy)
age 90, of Berlin, MD died Friday, September 20, 2024 in Hospice care at Atlantic Shores Rehabilitation & Health Center in Millsboro, DE. She was born in New Jersey and was the daughter of late John Wurster and Margaret (Fayter) Wurster.
Peggy was a wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother. She attended St. John Neumann Catholic Church and very active in the Cottages in Berlin where she enjoyed going to Bingo, lunches and monthly birthday parties. She also enjoyed spending time with her great-grandchildren and watching football, especially the Seahawks.
She is survived by three children, Kathleen Storm and husband Geof of Pittsville, Kenneth Reeve and wife Sarah of Polson, MT. and Karen Newman of Centreville, six grandchildren, and six great-grandchildren.
Margaret was preceded in death by her two husbands, Harry Reeve and Christian Mohrfeld; a sister, Elizabeth Hosford; and her beloved dog, April.
The family would like to acknowledge her caretakers and friends Barbara and Donna for helping her living
independently for as long as possible. We also express our appreciation to Accent Hospice and especially her nurse Mellissa for their guidance and support.
A memorial service will be held in the spring. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The Children’s Heart Foundation.
Condolences may be sent by visiting www.bishophastingsfh.com
BARBARA ANN EDMONSTON
Glen Mills, Pa.
Barbara Ann Edmonston, 82, passed away peacefully at home on September 28, 2024, in Glen Mills, Pa. She was born on October 5, 1941, in Cleveland, Tenn. to Garnett and Helen Kidd.
Barbara was a devoted mother, grandmother, and sister. She is survived by her sons, Paul Dusseau (Roberta) of Newark, Del., and Robert Dusseau of Elkton, Md.; her daughters, Julie Sutton (Roy) of Ponte Vedra Beach, Fla., and Theresa Edelsohn (Andrew) of Thornton, Pa.; and her cherished grandchildren, Christopher, Joshua, Nicole, Kaitlyn, Laura, Max, Zachary, Nicholas, Maddie Dusseau, Chelsea, and Morgan Sutton. She was preceded in death by her loving husband of nearly 40 years,
Thomas E. Edmonston III; her brother, Wayne Kidd; and her sons, Kenneth and Michael Dusseau. Barbara was blessed with close friends and a large extended family of in-laws with many nieces and nephews.
Barbara dedicated over 20 years as an accounting clerk at Ferguson Enterprises/Wilmington Supply in Wilmington, Del. before retiring in 2003. After her retirement, Barbara and her husband Thomas spent their golden years in the Ocean Pines community of Maryland. They enjoyed boating, sailing and crabbing. Barbara was a long-time member of the Red Hat Society and enjoyed water aerobics and participating in various charitable causes. In her earlier years, she was an avid bowler and golfer. Known for her love of baking, Barbara brought joy to many gatherings with her delicious treats, leaving lasting memories for family and friends.
Visitation was held on Wednesday, October 2, at The Burbage Funeral Home in Berlin, followed by graveside services at Garden of the Pines
Cemetery in Ocean Pines. Letters of condolence may be sent to the family via www.burbagefuneralhome.com. Arrangements are in the care of The Burbage Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Barbara's favorite charity, St. Jude's Children Hospital.
Florida
Come remember Joyce with her family and friends at
SEAFOOD 12505 Ocean Gateway, Ocean City, MD Sat., Oct. 5, 2024 at 2-4pm
Billie E. Trageser, 94, passed on September 9, 2024 in Ocala, Florida at Grace Hall Hospice, with her loving family surrounding her. She is survived by 5 children, 8 grandchildren and 2 great grandchildren. Her husband Andrew A. Trageser, preceded her in death in 2018. She spent 40 years in Ocean Pines MD. and the last 2 years with her daughter Julie in Ocala, Florida. Cremation followed her death. No service is planned at this time.
Obituary Notices cost $50 per week for Print and Online Publications. E-mail: editor@oceancitytoday.net
Mail: 11934 Ocean Gateway, Suite 6, Ocean City, Md. 21842 Fax: 410-723-6511
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.
By Bruce C. Walls Contributing Writer
(Oct. 4, 2024) Stephen Decatur High School’s varsity field hockey team posted another win last Thursday on their home Louis H. Taylor Field. The 4-2 win over Easton High School improves the Seahawks season to 3 wins and one loss.
“I liked we scored four goals tonight, “ said Stephen Decatur Head Coach Katie Griffin. “We went up to Queen Anne’s last week and we dominated every aspect of the game and lost the game. We had more shots, more corners and dominated every aspect of the game. We had possession of the ball and couldn’t hit the cage. The four goals we got tonight is what we needed.”
In the first quarter with 12:42 minutes on the clock Bailey Griffin put the first score in the box with a corner shot.
Easton fought back when Addison Knox hit the cage. With a little over two minutes left in the first quarter Seahawk Ryleigh Smith, with the assistance of Griffin, scored.
During a hard fought second quarter, with 4:29 minutes, Jill Burton passed the ball to Avari Shoff who stuffed one in for the Seahawks.
Easton came back in the third period with a goal by Maedy Leitzer.
Stephen Decatur’s Marley Rill, assisted by Ava Snelsire, put in the final goal for the Seahawks win 4-2.
Smith made the second goal tonight and showed leadership.
“I think I did pretty good,” Smith said. “There are a couple of things I need to work on especially after Queen Anne’s. We need to work on communication with our back passes and swing.”
On Monday night, the Seahawks won 3-0 against Washington High School advancing to 4-1 on the season.
By Bruce C. Walls Contributing Writer
(Oct. 4, 2024) After four straight wins, Stephen Decatur’s varsity volleyball team lost last Thursday evening at home to Kent Island High School from Stevensville. The defeat left the Seahawks at 4-2 for the season so far.
The Seahawks lost in straight sets but, the first set was close at 18-21. Decatur lost more traction in the second set, falling 11-21, and the third set
ended 4-13.
“I feel the energy was a little manic,” said Coach Sara Patrick. “We could have slowed it down a little and controlled the ball more, have found the holes on the court and if we slowed it down, we would have been more successful in controlling the court.”
Stephen Decatur has some power servers as seen in Kirby Bounds, Hailey Lewis, Alice Bickel and Hayden Esworthy. Combine this with their
front line and you have a team that is hard to beat. The players need to develop better communication and slow it down, according to the squad’s coach.
“I am really very proud of them they fought hard and showed heart, they really wanted it badly,”
said.
The Seahawks played their next home game against Parkside High School on Thursday night.
WPS SENIORS RECOGNIZED
On the annual senior game, Worcester Prep’s
(Oct. 4, 2024) Worcester County Recreation & Parks (WCRP)will hold the 12th annual Tee Off for Youth Golf Tournament Fundraiser at the Ocean City Golf Club on Friday, Nov. 1. Check-in begins at 9:30 a.m., with a shotgun start to follow at 11 a.m.
The cost to participate is $90 per golfer, and all proceeds generated by this event will benefit underprivileged youth who participate in WCRP youth programs, leagues, after school activities, and summer camps. Over
one-third of the children participating in WCRP’s programs are considered underprivileged, and tournament proceeds provide scholarships to assure all children can participate in recreation programs year-round.
Register a team for this year’s Tee Off for Youth Golf Tournament and Fundraiser. Forms to register your four-man scramble are available on the WCRP website or pick one up in person at the Worcester County
Recreation Center, located at 6030 Public Landing Road, Snow Hill, Md. 21863. The registration deadline is Friday, Oct. 25.
Sponsors, auction baskets, volunteers, and donations are needed to run this year’s tournament. Promote your organization by signing up to be a sponsor.
Options include dinner sponsorship, lunch sponsorship, beverage cart sponsorship, tee sign(s) sponsorship, and other donations sponsorships.
“The Tee off for Youth Golf Tournament is the main fundraiser for the Worcester County Recreation Boosters,” Recreation and Parks Director Kelly Rados said. “All proceeds go directly to the Boosters so that they can assist local youth and families to participate in WCRP programs and activities.”
For more information contact Ben Kirk at 410-632-2144, x2520 or bkirk@co.worcester.md.us.
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