12/27/2024 OC Today-Dispatch by OC Today-Dispatch

2024’s top 10 includes tram death, Walsh, wind, election

By Steve Green Executive Editor

(Dec. 27, 2024) Of the thousands of headlines that appeared on these pages through 2024, here’s a look at our newsroom’s “Top 10” stories of the year for the Ocean City area. Photos from the year’s highlights will follow throughout the rest of this week’s publication.

1. Boardwalk tram fatality leads to service suspension

The most heartbreaking story of the year, but it’s also one with major longterm ramifications for Ocean City. A 2year-old Lower Shore boy was killed on Aug. 20 around 8 p.m. when he was hit by a southbound Boardwalk tram.

The investigation into the incident resulted in the tram service being abolished for the season and most likely not returning in 2025, according to city officials. A lawsuit is likely, but Ocean City is also investigating how to logistically keep the tram service going in years ahead due to many questions surrounding the Jeep-led trolley. There are many complications surrounding the tram all brought to light by last summer’s tragedy.

2. Tyler Walsh collision shocks school, full community

Just 10 days into his junior year at Stephen Decatur High School, Tyler Walsh’s life changed forever. Walsh was

struck by a speeding motorist on Sept. 13 on Coastal Highway, resulting in serious injuries that required months of hospitalization and continued rehabilitation.

Michael Scot Schneider, 51, of Ballston Spa, New York, was charged with multiple offenses, including driving under the influence and failure to remain on the scene of an accident resulting in bodily injury or death.

In the weeks and months that followed, the community turned out to raise more than $100,000 for the family while Walsh recovers from his injuries. An effort is underway to renovate Walsh’s home with a handicap ramp and other improvements for his eventual return.

Schneider has a motions hearing scheduled for Jan. 15, 2025 with a jury trial to follow in February.

3. Offshore wind opposition continues amid approvals

More than 50 stories appeared in the paper on this topic with the most significant news coming in recent weeks. Following Ocean City’s official announcement to sue the government over the wind farm process, governments in Worcester County and Sussex County each made plays this month to stall and potentially even stop the process. Worcester wants to try and block an op-

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Tram fatality, Walsh collision top 2024 news

erations facility in West Ocean City by negotiating with the existing property owners who are under contract with US Wind. Sussex County officials said no to a zoning request to allow a key facility to be built in Dagsboro. Additionally, President-elect Trump has vowed at the federal level to stop all offshore wind with an executive order.

4. Short-term rental changes eyed in Ocean City

About two dozen stories were written on Ocean City’s efforts to get a handle on short-term rentals, the popularity of which has clearly impacted the local hotels. Of late, the big news is the Ocean City Planning Commission’s recommendation to the Ocean City Mayor and Council to eliminate short-term rentals in the R-1 residential district within three years. The council is expected to weigh

the recommendation in the first quarter of 2025.

5. Commissioners, school board continue budget squabbles

Off and on over the last two years, the divide between the Worcester County Commissioners and the Worcester County Board of Education has been a major story. One year after providing the lowest level of funding allowed by law, called Maintenance of Effort, the County Commissioners in May in a divided vote increased education spending, but about $2 million under the requested amount from the Board of Education. At the commissioners’ last meeting of the year on Dec. 17, officials had a tense conversation about school system funding in light of significant increases in property tax and income tax revenues coming to the county.

6. Music festivals bring economic development, here to stay

in Ocean City

On the heels of a successful first year, Oceans Calling Festival returned in September followed the next weekend by the first Country Calling Festival. Both festivals were sold out within a day. The success led to the birth of a new spring event called Boardwalk Rock being planned for mid-May 2025. The music festival’s date resulted in Cruisin’ and Springfest being changed. Tickets did not sell out as fast for the new Boardwalk Rock event as its predecessors.

7. Elections: OC mayor reelected, school board incumbents retain seats in heated races

A contested mayoral race in Ocean City has been rare, but it happened this fall when Councilman Peter Buas gave up his council seat to challenge long-time Mayor Rick Meehan. It was the closest election battle Meehan has faced as mayor, but in

the end Meehan won his 10th term. Also re-elected were Councilmen Tony DeLuca and John Gehrig and joining the council were Jake Mitrecic and Larry Yates. On the school board front, incumbents Jon Andes, Elena McComas and Donald Smack were able to keep their seats despite a divisive campaign season.

8. Mobile home insurance worries OC property owners

In recent months, the Town of Ocean City and the Worcester County Commissioners have called on state representatives to help local property owners struggling to secure insurance for their older mobile and 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, which is required by the mortgage company. For others, it has resulted in dropped coverage. Since news first broke last summer, the issue has been elevated to the Maryland Joint Insurance Association and Maryland Insurance Administration, which held a public hearing this fall in an effort to find potential solutions.

9. AGH, TidalHealth announce merger intentions

No jobs will be lost. It’s what both sides promise if AGH and TidalHealth go forward with merger intentions in 2025. In December, officials from both hospitals expressed excitement when a letter of intent was signed to bring AGH into the TidalHealth system. A due diligence period is currently underway with plans to make the transaction official in the spring of 2025.

10. New Buckingham Elementary finally a go

It will not break ground util the spring of 2027 at the earliest, but Maryland and county officials were able to agree to funding terms for a new Buckingham Elementary School to be built in Berlin. The county will fund a majority of the construction, but the state will chip in enough to make the project doable for the county. The year began with the project much in doubt as state officials maintained the school was not crowded enough and other schools in the area had capacity. Many months of discussions led to a change in direction with the announcement in November a new school agreement is in place.

Honorable mentions:

First-degree murder case in OC; public school safety concerns aired by state’s attorney, sheriff; Decatur captures backto-back state football titles; commissioners say no to public comments; Baltimore Avenue secures $20 million in federal funding; seasonal officer program ends in OC; misconduct investigation within OCPD; OC police chief announces immediate retirement; slow summer for OC businesses; Saute Café arsonist released; daycare workers charged with assault; newspapers merge; beach medical waste source unknown; Knupp saga continues with fiscal abuse alleged; county blocks Diakonia project on Route 611; sports complex remains OC priority; and

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SNOWY

SCENE Ocean City received a healthy dusting of snow throughout the afternoon of Jan. 15. The

beach is pictured downtown.

Charlie B • Tribal

French Dressing Habitat

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Ruby Rd Democracy

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*Basics, Year Round, New 2025 As Marked

WOLF MOON

(Left, U.S. Rep. Andy Harris (R-1), left, converses with U.S. Rep. Chris Smith (NJ-4)

The Worcester County community showed up in waves and plunged into the winter ocean to support Atlantic General Hospital on New Year’s Day in front of the Princess Royale Hotel.

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HUMPBACK WHALE

A deceased humpback whale is pictured on Jan. 31 on Assateague Island National Seashore.

PENGUIN SWIM

JOINT MEETING

FAIRNESS IN GIRLS SPORTS

MASTER PLAN DISCUSSION

Sen. Mary Beth Carozza (R-38C) speaks during a February press conference in Annapolis about the Fairness in Girls Sports bill, which she sponsored in the Senate. Pictured are Kathy Szeliga (R7A), who sponsored the bill in the House, and a group of supporters. The bill would require high school interscholastic or intramural athletic teams or sports be designated based on biological sex, specifically regarding women’s teams.

Scott Fox of Mead & Hunt, right, talks to a South Point resident about the development of the Worcester County Greenways Master Plan during a public input meeting Feb. 20 at the Berlin library.

The Ocean City Mayor and Council meet with members of the Ocean City Planning Commission in February to discuss a variety of current issues facing the resort.

RETIREMENT OBSERVED

OCPD Corporal Sydney Findley’s retirement was celebrated at City Hall earlier this year with colleagues, family members and the Mayor and Council.

CLEAN, BUT CHILLY Walkers on the beach and Boardwalk enjoyed a blue-sky Saturday morning stroll in Ocean City last February.

STOCKTON FIRE

The charred remains of two campers that caught fire in February on a property in Stockton are pictured. One person died in the blaze.

SNOWY OWL SIGHTING

A snowy owl looks out over its winter hunting territory on Assateague Island after migrating down from its arctic breeding grounds in Canada and possibly Greenland. This migration doesn’t always happen every year, but photographer Alan Sklar came across this one in February.

SCHOOL SAFETY CAMPAIGN

The Worcester County Board of Education defended public safety in local schools after criticism from the Sheriff’s Office and State’s Attorney’s Office in public videos posted on Facebook. “We don’t know what has motivated law enforcement to publicly and aggressively defame our school system but I’m here to tell you we can’t stand for it,” Superintendent of Schools Lou Taylor said at a press conference March 1.

CHECK PRESENTATION

Members of the American Legion Post 166 recently presented a $1,000 check to the Worcester County Youth and Family Counseling Services. Pictured, from left, with the check, are Post donations committee member Ben Dawson, clinical psychologist Jennifer Leggour, Director of Worcester Connects Kayla Figueroa and Post donations committee member George Spicer.

BIRTHDAY ESCORT

Pellinger’s 11th birthday was celebrated in grand style in mid-March at Berlin Intermediate with a police escort from his Berlin

to school where he was greeted by the

school’s students and faculty.

MONSTER TRUCK

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WIND OPPOSITION

PROM PROPOSAL

The monster truck “Sarge” is pictured in March driving under the downtown pier in preparation for a new October event, which was canceled later in the year.

Berlin officials and state representatives gathered in March to kickstart demolition work at the former Tyson Foods plant on Old Ocean City Boulevard.

PROJECT BEGINS

Maryland DHCD Secretary Jake Day speaks at Heron Park in Berlin on March 7 before officials ceremoniously began demolition efforts at the former home to Tyson Foods.

Berlin resident Gussie Sholtis takes

with the sledgehammer at the March 7 demolition kickoff at Heron Park.

ST. PATRICK’S PARADE

Mother Nature provided a beautiful day in March for the Delmarva Irish-American Club’s annual St. Patrick’s Parade and Festival. More than 90 entries participated this year in the parade, which started at 57th Street and wrapped up at the 45th Street shopping center. Pictured are some of the scenes captured along the parade route as well as festivities at the parade headquarters.

FOSTER CARE MONTH

Terry and Alison Tinker were recognized last week the Worcester County Commissioners as the 2024 Worcester County Foster Parents of the Year. Alison Tinkler is pictured with members of the Department of Social Services that were also recognized as a part of May being National Foster Care Month.

MATHIAS HONORED

In April, the Democratic Central Committee of Worcester County presented Jim Mathias, a former Ocean City mayor and state senator, with a Lifetime Achievement Award at its Kennedy King Annual Dinner.

YEAR’S THIRD FOAL

Assateague Island National Seashore’s third foal of the year was born in April to Susi Sole, who is 9 years old. The foal represents Susi Sole’s fifth foal in as many years. Seashore officials remind visitors to maintain a school bus length’s away – approximately 40 feet — from all horses.

MOUNTED UNIT GROWS

The Ocean City Police Department announced the newest addition to its mounted unit. Buckshot is current mounted unit member Storm’s older brother. The horses grew up together at DGS Shire farm. Buckshot was trained by Jerald Sams and Cynthia Sparks of Mounted Patrol International, LLC in Manor, Texas. Pfc. Christian Rodden and Buckshot were out and about exploring downtown Ocean City and the beach in April.

BERLIN MURAL

Artist Olga Deshields is pictured restoring an advertising mural that dates back to at least the 1950s. The Town of Berlin used grant funding to complete the restoration in April.

TEACHER OF YEAR

Gabrielle Remington, Worcester County’s 2024 Teacher of the Year, is pictured accepting her award at an April celebration.

SPRINGFEST OPENING

The Town of Ocean City invited the OC Stars choral group from Ocean City Elementary School to help cut the ribbon at Springfest’s opening day in May.

BOARDWALK CRUISIN’

A daily Boardwalk parade, one of the highlights of the 33rd Annual Endless Summer Cruisin’ event, is pictured.

PARK OPENING

Officials celebrated the transformation of the Bayside Park at 3rd Street with a ribbon cutting ceremony in May. Some local students were also given the opportunity to try out the new inclusive playground set during the festivities.

FUNDING DEMONSTRATION

CATCHING WAVES

Pro-school funding demonstrators in May lined the streets across from the county’s government office building, where the Worcester County Commissioners were to take testimony on their budget.

NEW FOAL

Assateague Island National Seashore’s third foal of the year was born last spring to Susi Sole, who is 9 years old. The foal represents Susi Sole’s fifth foal in as many years.

Kai Sommers is pictured competing in May’s Mid-Atlantic Surfing Championships.

FIRST MARLIN RELEASE

The captain and crew of the Fish On are pictured in June at Sunset Marina after catching and releasing Ocean City’s first white marlin of the season.

Things I Like...

By Steve Green

A Winterfest stop every year

Warm Christmas Days

Giving gifts

Packing shorts for a vacation

When data backs an opinion

When locals open a new business

Days off during the holidays

When forecasted snow actually happens

Teamwork in an office setting

Thick coffee mugs

A clean work desk to start the week

vanishing vanishing OCEAN CITY

With Bunk Mann

Ocean City’s beach and Boardwalk had a different appearance in the years prior to World War II. This photo looks north from Talbot Street. The Boardwalk in those days was narrow and raised about four feet above the beach. On a hot day, bathers would sit under it in the shade and enjoy a picnic lunch. People dressed up to walk on the Boardwalk in that era. As can be seen in this circa 1940 photo, even in mid-day women wore high heels and men wore long sleeved shirts and ties. The attire was even more formal in the evenings. The beach was narrow and waves often rolled up to the Boardwalk on high tide. It was well into the 1950s until the rock jetty at the Inlet caused lots of sand to build up at the south end of Ocean City. Today the beach in this location is nearly eight times as wide as it was 80 years ago.

The tower-like structure in the background was built by the Coast Guard to watch for both boats and swimmers in distress. It was removed at the end of World War II.

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

NATURAL BEAUTY

A June sunrise is pictured on Assateague Island with some Assateague Island residents enjoying down time before the tourists arrive. Ocean City is in the background.

FIRE CAMP FUN

Participants in this summer’s Ocean City Fire Department Junior Fire Camp are pictured spraying a fire hose.

by Steve Green

TThe Adventures of Fatherhood

he holiday buildup combined with the typical workload got the best of me this week. Therefore, I’m cheating a bit this week and looking back at some past Christmas reflections in this space. Forgive me for slacking but here goes with some memories.

2009: A morning spent in the emergency room will surely make this a Christmas I will never forget.

My oldest son, Beckett is affectionately referred to around the house as “bruiser” because of his beefcake mentality. He’s a tough little boy with a disposition to match. I find him hilarious, particularly during meals of late when he consistently points to the high-chair tray and says “down, down, down,” meaning he wants the food put down in front of him now or at least at a quicker clip. He continued to live up to his nickname on Christmas Day when a mishap involving a box, containing a Diego toilet, and a wall led us to the ER.

Christmas morning was a wonderful time, and, although Beckett is just 19 months old, he seemed to be enthralled with what transpired in the house from the time he went to bed on Christmas Eve to the next morning. The transformation was not lost on him. Carson, the 7-week-old, on the other hand, slept through all the excitement nearby.

After Beckett rummaged through some of the bigger toys and some of his new and cherished board books, we decided to open some gifts ourselves. There we were enjoying the excitement of Christmas morning when we spotted Beckett standing atop the box, which was about eight inches off the floor. This was nothing new and situations like this play out repeatedly around our house.

However, as luck would have it, just before I could get to him to bring him off the box, he clumsily fell backwards,

hitting the wall with his head.

The only unusual aspect of this tumble was the fact he hit the corner of the wall. It was a direct hit, splitting open his head with a sizable gash. He takes harder falls daily in his numerous jaunts around the house, and I was initially unaware how serious it was because he quickly stopped crying.

Unfortunately, a few seconds after the fall, I turned him so my wife could look at the back of his head and she noticed he was bleeding heavily. A few minutes later, we were on our way to AGH.

The entire ER experience and stitching lasted less than two hours, and it was a small blip on what was a busy Christmas day.

2012: Christmas can be stressful for parents of little ones, but it’s also the most special time of year and well worth any anxiety that it brings.

There we were at 7 on Christmas morning in our new holiday pajamas Pam buys each year, waiting for our boys to join us. Pam had already been up for more than an hour in case Beckett wandered downstairs before us.

The boys had already had a full Christmas and I think it caught up with them. Due to our large family, we had already had two Christmas celebrations that apparently tired them out.

Either way, a few minutes after 7 that morning, Pam and I were in their rooms pulling off their covers and reminding them what day it was.

It only took the one reminder for their excitement to return and ignite their curiosity of whether Santa had come. We should all be able to bounce out of bed as fast as they did and to be that nimble on our feet at 7 in the morning.

Once they were up, their enthusiasm was awesome to witness.

In his typical fashion, Beckett was the most anxious and enthusiastic to see what Santa brought him and his brother, Carson, who has adopted a

more subdued approach to most things in life.

Once the great revealing took place, the kids went about opening their presents.

Beckett’s aggressive style was on full display, ripping open the gifts at a frenetic pace, commenting on what he saw and then moving on to the next wrapped box. Some gifts slowed him down more than others, while some, such as clothes and books, barely stopped him in his tracks.

On the other hand, Carson was methodical and probably would have been happy with his one large gift — a standup kitchen set, complete with burners, a refrigerator, microwave and other items. He loved it and at least initially did not seem too interested in the other gifts under the tree. Eventually, he turned his attention to them. It was a good thing because his big brother seemed intent on opening them as soon as we were distracted.

For Beckett, the thrill is the opening of the gifts to see what he received and playing with them later, while Carson is more deliberate and seems to prefer to spread out the actual opening to enjoy the toys one-by-one as they are received. It sums up our kids and their unique personalities well actually.

Once all the gifts were opened and we forced breakfast on them, we pulled our annual Christmas morning surprise on them. Each year we hold back a big gift from Santa until later in the morning. One year, for example, it was a backyard trampoline.

While the entire morning is befitting of videotaping, it’s this surprise that I think is the most treasured moment of the day because they truly were surprised. It started snowing a couple hours later.

(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.)

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Best Beats On The Beach

Who’s Where When

CAPTAIN’S TABLE

410-289-7192

15th & Boardwalk In The Courtyard Marriott Fridays & Saturdays: Phil Perdue on Piano

COINS PUB

410-289-3100

28th Street Plaza On Coastal Hwy. Friday, December 27: Opposite Directions

Saturday, December 28: Lost Figures

Tuesday, December 31: First Class

CRABCAKE FACTORY BAYSIDE

302-988-5000

37314 Lighthouse Rd., Rte. 54, Selbyville, DE Friday, December 27: Monkee Paw

Wednesday, January 1: Neil Helgeson

CRAWL STREET TAVERN

443-373-2756

Wicomico St., Downtown O.C. Friday, December 27: Mercury Agenda Saturday, December 28: Schizophrenic Boogiemen Tuesday, December 31: NYE - Schizophrenic Boogiemen

FAGER’S ISLAND

410-524-5500

60th St., In The Bay Friday, December 27: The Chest Pains & DJ Vybe Saturday, December 28: Big Machine & DJ RobCee Monday, December 30: Tranzfusion

Tuesday, December 31:

DJ Greg, DJ Stinson & Radio Hero

GREENE TURTLE WEST

410-213-1500

Route 611, West OC Saturday, December 31: DJ Hook

HARBORSIDE 410-213-1846

South Harbor Rd., West End O.C. Fridays: DJ Billy T

DJ ROBCEE Fager’s Island: Saturday, December 28

BEATS BY STYLER Pickles Pub: Sundays & Wednesdays

DJ BILLY T Harborside: Fridays, Tuesday, December 31 & Wednesday, January 1

PHIL PERDUE

Captain’s Table: Fridays & Saturdays

DJ DEOGEE Pickles Pub: Fridays & Thursdays

DJ HOOK Greene Turtle West: December 31

DJ MARY JANE Seacrets: Friday, December 27

DJ WAX Harborside: Saturday, December 28

FULL CIRCLE

Buxy’s Salty Dog: Saturday, December 28

Seacrets: Tuesday, December 31

MONKEE PAW

Crabcake Factory Bayside: Friday, December 27

TRANZFUSION

Fager’s Island: Monday, December 30

FIRST

CLASS Coins: Tuesday, December 31

SCHIZOPHRENIC BOOGIEMEN

Crawl Street Tavern: Saturday, December 28 Tuesday, December 31

PICKIN’ PARTY

Harborside: Sunday, December 29

Who’s Where When

Saturday, December 28:

Rogue Citizens & DJ Wax

Sundays: Pickin’ Party

Tuesday, December 31

& Wednesday, January 1: DJ Billy T

Thursdays: Dust N Bones Duo

PICKLES PUB

410-289-4891

8th St. & Philadelphia Ave.

Fridays: Beats By DeoGee

Saturday, December 28:

Black Dog Alley

Sundays: Beats By Styler

Mondays: Karaoke w/ Wood

Tuesdays: Beats By Rampage

Wednesdays: Beats By Styler

Thursdays: Beats By DeoGee

PURPLE MOOSE SALOON

410-289-6953

Between Caroline & Talbot Sts. On The Boards

Saturday, December 28: Boh Daddies

Tuesday, December 31: Dwayne Wilson Band

SEACRETS

410-524-4900

49th St. & Coastal Hwy.

Friday, December 27:

Full Circle Duo & DJ Mary Jane

Saturday, December 28: John McNutt Band, DJ Flight, DJ Cruz, DJ C-Miller & Red Dirt Revolution

Monday, December 30: Opposite Directions & DJ E-State

Tuesday, December 31: DJ Davie, DJ Cruz, DJ Bobby O, DJ Connair, Full Circle, Kono Nation, The Way Outs & Garden State Radio

Wednesday, January 1: The Way Outs

Thursday, January 2: Carley Twigg

DWAYNE WILSON

Purple Moose: Tuesday, December 31

BLACK DOG ALLEY Pickles Pub: Saturday, December 28

Dining Guide

■ PRICE RANGE: $, $$, $$$

■ RESERVATIONS: Reservations accepted

DOWNTOWN

South end to 28th Street

■ BUXY’S SALTY DOG SALOON

DRY DOCK 28

28th Street, Ocean City, 410-289-0973, buxys.com, drydockoc.com

Destiny has a new home in Ocean City. From the ‘burgh to the beach, Buxy’s is your home away from Pittsburgh. Come see what all the locals already know and have known – Buxy’s is the place to come to meet friends, relax and be social with no attitudes. House specialties include “The” Cheesesteak Sub, Primantistyled sandwiches, pierogis, egg-rolls and homemade crab dip. Dry Dock also features a full menu with soups, salads, kick starters, pierogis and craft pizza.

■ CAPTAIN’S TABLE

15th Street and Baltimore Avenue, in The Courtyard by Marriott, Ocean City, 410-2897192, captainstableoc.com

$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar

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

■ COINS PUB & RESTAURANT

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

$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar

American style local restaurant serving seafood, steaks and chefs specials. Check out the off season weekday specials. Early bird; daily, 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, 410-2893322, 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.

■ PICKLES PUB

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

$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar

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

■ PIT & PUB

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.

MIDTOWN

29th to 90th streets

■ 32 PALM

32nd Street in The Hilton, Ocean City 410289-2525, 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, 410524-7171, 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.

■ FAGERS ISLAND

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

$$ | Full bar

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

■ HOOKED

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

$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar

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

■ LONGBOARD CAFÉ

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

$$-$$$ | Full bar

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

■ MARLIN MOON RESTAURANT

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

$$ | Full bar

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

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

$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar

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

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

The Carousel Oceanfront Resort offers a family friendly casual dining experience with their Reef 118 restaurant. Offering dinner Thursday through Sunday from 5-9 p.m., featuring AYCE Crab legs for $54.95. Serving breakfast on Saturdays and Sundays from 8 a.m. to noon. Their new "Go for 2" happy hour features $10 appetizers as a buy one get one free. $1 oysters during all open hours. They are now taking reservations for the Thanksgiving buffet and also offering Thanksgiving take-out meals for $189.99 for 6 people and are featuring the Funsters for their NYE entertainment.

■ 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, 410250-4900, 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.

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

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

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

Reservations | Kids’ Menu

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

OCEAN PINES

■ CLUBHOUSE BAR AND GRILLE

100 Clubhouse Drive, Ocean Pines 410-6417222, Oceanpinesgolf.org/dining $$ | Full bar

Indoor and outdoor dining with sweeping views of the 18th green and pond, the Clubhouse Bar and Grille serves freshly prepared breakfast and lunch items with a full bar menu. Open: Thursday through Sunday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. (Kitchen closes at 4 p.m.)

■ OCEAN PINES YACHT CLUB

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

$$-$$$ | Full bar

The Ocean Pines Yacht Club offers casual coastal cuisine for lunch and dinner in a beautiful bayfront setting. Fresh seafood, signature drinks, live music and more. Closed Sunday, Dec. 22 through Thursday. Dec. 26. Reopening Friday Dec. 27 through Sunday, Dec. 29. Then open for private ticketed event upstairs in the ballroom on New Year’s Eve and Jan. 1, New Year’s Day at 11 a.m. for 50% off all food, while supplies last.

WEST OCEAN CITY

■ BREAKFAST CAFE

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

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

■ CANTINA LOS AGAVES MEXICAN GRILL

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

$$ | Kid’s menu | Full bar

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

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

This classic ice cream shop is a tradition for many families. Voted O.C.’s “Best Ice Cream” for the past 20 years, Dumser’s is celebrating decades of serving the shore, and the ‘40sstyle 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

■ 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, Phillystyle cheese steaks, various seafood, kids menu plus full breakfast menu.

■ DIRTY HARRY’S

100 Coastal Highway, Fenwick Island, DE, 302-539-3020, Beach-net.com/dirtyharrys

$ | Kids’ Menu | Full bar

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

Proudly serving West Ocean City since January 1999, The Greene Turtle features a beautiful 80-seat 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. MondayWednesday: 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.

FENWICK ISLAND

STRAWBERRY MOON RISING

June’s full moon, known as the “Strawberry Moon,” is pictured rising over downtown Ocean City.

Coloring Contest Winners

Thank you to all the wonderful artists for participating in the Newspaper Coloring Contest.

Below are the winners.

Winner Ages 3-6Winner Ages 7-11Winner Ages 12 & Up

Jace Frantz Age: 6

Maisie Gill Age: 10

Dale Mary Tubbs Age: 79

OC CELEBRATES 4TH

PATRIOTIC PARADE

A SUCCESSFUL

BBBS GOLF BENEFIT

TALL SHIP VISITS OC

The members of team Shattered Glass, the first place gross winners of the Big Brother Big Sisters of the Eastern Shore’s 17th Annual Eastern Shore Golf Classic are pictured receiving prizes from tournament co-chair John Petito.

HUNT

An osprey prepares for liftoff after landing a nice snapper blue for lunch in the bay behind Ocean City.

Residents of the Mallard Island neighborhood off 15th Street in Ocean City demonstrated their patriotic spirit during the annual summer parade held on July 4.

A Spanish galleon replica makes her way to port on June 28, where she was moored at Third Street.

ARIES – Mar 21/Apr 20

It’s easy for your mind to wander and get caught daydreaming, Aries. You could be feeling a little restless and in need of a change. A vacation or a night with friends may just do it.

TAURUS – Apr 21/May 21

Taurus, even if you are trying to save money, this week some situations will arise that will require you to open your wallet. This is why you have an emergency fund.

GEMINI – May 22/Jun 21

Gemini, sometimes people do not know which side of you they might encounter and might keep you at arms’ length as a result. Try to be more open this week.

CANCER – Jun 22/Jul 22

Exciting things are on the horizon, Cancer. This might be something you have been anticipating for some time.

LEO – Jul 23/Aug 23

Leo, this week you might need to stick up for someone or fight for a cause you believe in, even if it adversely affects your popularity. Stand your ground in these situations.

VIRGO – Aug 24/Sept 22

Virgo, you might want to swallow your pride and ask for help rather than trying to do everything on your own. Going it alone hasn’t helped you in the past, so why should it now?

LIBRA – Sept 23/Oct 23

Someone steps in and helps you along at work, Libra. Instead of feeling he or she took liberties, thank this person for giving you the extra boost you likely needed at the time.

SCORPIO – Oct 24/Nov 22

Scorpio, try to look at a situation from a new angle and then you might get some of the answers you desire this week. Is someone acting out of character?

SAGITTARIUS – Nov 23/Dec 21

Learn how to deal with conflict in a productive way, Sagittarius. Then you won’t get bogged down by others when they are going head-to-head. Aries might play a role this week.

CAPRICORN – Dec 22/Jan 20

This week you may find that all of your efforts to build up to a pinnacle moment perhaps didn’t give you the feelings you desired. Try getting back to basics.

AQUARIUS – Jan 21/Feb 18

Aquarius, something that has been stretching on for quite some time finally gets finished, giving you the closure you need. Share the news slowly with others.

PISCES – Feb 19/Mar 20

Pisces, if what you are doing right now is giving you gratification, you might not need to make many big changes in the weeks to come.

PUBLIC SAFETY EXPO

A VISIT WITH POPSICLES

The Ocean City Fire Department’s annual public safety expo did not disappoint June 21 with local and state first responders and other staff and personnel showing off the amenities and equipment they use daily to keep the community safe. The event consisted of K9 demonstrations featuring the Maryland State Police Office of the Fire Marshal Accelerant Detection Dogs, emergency vehicle tours, health and safety demonstrations, interactions with first responders, and more at Northside Park on 125th Street. Pictured are some scenes from the event.

Margaret Mudron of the Ocean City-Berlin Rotary Club finished out the school year with visits to the club’s adopted kindergarten and pre-K classes at Ocean City and Showell Elementary schools. Students enjoyed popsicles from Jun & Juice during the visit.

Calendar

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

Fri., Dec. 27

SO GOOD! THE NEIL DIAMOND EXPERIENCE

turing BYOP Doubles, four game round robin. Six games guaranteed. Sign up and pay on the Scoreholio app. Food and beverages will be credit card only. Additional events are cash only.

ALL-YOU-CAN-EAT BREAKFAST BUFFET

Ocean City Performing Arts Center, 4001 Coastal Highway, Ocean City. 7 p.m. Featuring Robert Neary performing Neil Diamond’s hits. Cost is $35 and $45. Tickets: https://www.etix.com/ticket/p/922410 53/so-goodthe-neil-diamond-experience-ocean-city-oc-performing-artscenter.

2ND ANNUAL OCMD CORNHOLE TOURNAMENT

Roland E. Powell Convention Center, 4001 Coastal Highway, Ocean City. Featuring Switch Night with advanced and social switches. Eight games guaranteed. Sign up and pay on the Scoreholio app. Food and beverages will be credit card only. Additional events are cash only.

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 your own tile set. 410-524-1818, www.worcesterlibrary.org

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

FARMERS & ARTISANS MARKET

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

Sun., Dec. 29

2ND ANNUAL OCMD CORNHOLE TOURNAMENT

ARTSY HOMESCHOOLERS

Worcester County Library - Snow Hill Branch, 307 N. Washington St., 11 a.m. Every fourth Friday, come for an art project that includes everything from painting, writing, crafting and more. For ages 6-18 years. 410-632-3495, www.worcesterlibrary.org

SCHOOL’S OUT SWITCH SESSION

Worcester County Library - Snow Hill Branch, 307 N. Washington St., 2 p.m. Come play Nintendo Switch on the big screen and hang out with other kids and tweens. For ages 6-18 years. 410-6323495, www.worcesterlibrary.org

KIGHTS OF COLUMBUS BINGO

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

Sat., Dec. 28

2ND ANNUAL OCMD CORNHOLE TOURNAMENT

Roland E. Powell Convention Center, 4001 Coastal Highway, Ocean City. Fea-

Roland E. Powell Convention Center, 4001 Coastal Highway, Ocean City. Featuring singles, four game round robin into double elimination brackets. Sign up and pay on the Scoreholio app. Food and beverages will be credit card only. Additional events are cash only.

BERLIN FLEA MARKET

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

SEWING FOR A CAUSE

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

JEHOVAH’S WITNESSES MEETING

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

Mon., Dec. 30

NOON YEARS COUNTDOWN

Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 11 a.m.-noon. Countdown to 12 Noon and celebrate the coming year. Enjoy activities for all age groups throughout the whole library. Play games, make party hats and more. For families.

Continued on Page 46

www.worcesterlibrary.org, 410-5241818

FIBER ARTS

Worcester County Library - Pocomoke Branch, 301 Market St., 2-6 p.m. Bring your own fiber art project (crochet, knitting, etc.) and join in for a casual meet up to work on projects. 410-957-0878, www.worcesterlibrary.org

CANCER SUPPORT GROUP

John H. “Jack” Burbage, Jr. Regional Cancer Care Center, 9707 Healthway Drive, Berlin, 3-4 p.m. Those newly diagnosed, in treatment or in remission are welcomed. Friends and family members are encouraged to participate. 410641-2626

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

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

Tues., Dec. 31

NEW YEAR’S EVE FIREWORKS

Ocean City beach near Dorchester Street, 11 p.m. Welcome the New Year with fireworks at midnight in two locations, Downtown Ocean City and Northside Park. https://www.ococean.com/event/newyears-eve-fireworks/1805/

NEW YEAR’S EVE

Historic Downtown Berlin, 124 N. Main St., 6 p.m. Family friendly event with music and fun and a ball drop at 6 p.m. Why, 6 p.m.? Because that’s when it’s midnight in Berlin, Germany! Many restaurants/bars in town to spend the rest of your evening.

HANUKKAH MENORAH LIGHTING

The Inn Berlin, 15 Harrison Ave., 5 p.m. Join in to light the menorah. There will be potato latkes, sufganiyot and dreidels. Outdoor event. www.berlinmainstreet.com

SENSORY STORY TIME

Worcester County Library - Berlin

Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 10:30 a.m.

Stories, songs and fingerplays. For ages 0-5 years. 410-641-0650, www.worcesterlibrary.org

PLAY TIME

Worcester County Library - Pocomoke Branch, 301 Market St., 10:30 a.m. Join in for a variety of activities and toys. Play and socialize with other families. For ages 0-5 years. 410-957-0878, www.worcesterlibrary.org

BEACH HEROES-OC

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

JEHOVAH’S WITNESSES MEETING

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

TAKE OFF POUNDS SENSIBLY

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

OC KNITTING CLUB

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

ZUMBA TONING TUESDAYS

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

WEIGHT MANAGEMENT AND WELLNESS GROUP

Tuesdays - Holy Trinity Cathedral, 11021 Worcester Highway, 2-2:45 p.m. Use the weight loss program/app/plan of your choice. Free and open to everyone. 410-641-4882, www.htcanglican.org/activities.

Wed., Jan. 1

31ST ANNUAL PENGUIN SWIM

Princess Royale Oceanfront Resort, 9100 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, Noon. Advance check-in held Dec. 31 from 2-4 p.m. Event day registration and check-in from 9-11:30 a.m. Advance online registration is recommended: https://aghpenguinswim.org. Cyber Swim: #OCPenguinSwim. 410-641-9858

Thurs., Jan. 2

CPAP MASK FITTING

Atlantic General Hospital’s Sleep Disorders Diagnostic Center, 9733 Healthway Drive, Berlin. Free clinic for patients who are having trouble adjusting to their CPAP equipment. Appointment required: Robin Rohlfing, 410-641-9726.

STORY TIME: WINTER WONDERLAND

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 10:30 a.m. Songs, stories and crafts. For ages 0-5 years. 410-208-4014, www.worcesterlibrary.org

STORY TIME: I’M GOING TO BUILD A SNOWMAN

Worcester County Library - Snow Hill Branch, 307 N. Washington St., 10:30 a.m. Stories, songs and rhymes. For ages 0-5 years. 410-632-3495, www.worcesterlibrary.org

CHESS CLUB

Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 10:30 a.m. Looking for a quiet place to play some chess? Come to the Ocean City Branch and bring your boards. All are welcome. 410-524-1818, www.worcesterlibrary.org

REVITALIZE, RENEW, REFRESH: NEW YEAR’S SOUND BATH

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 1 p.m. Sound bath and vision boards with Debby Wolski. Bring any pictures you may want to use, but materials also provided. 410-208-4014, www.worcesterlibrary.org

POCOMOKE BRANCH BOOK CLUB: ‘THE BOOK THIEF’ BY MARKUS ZUSAK

Worcester County Library - Pocomoke Branch, 301 Market St., 2 p.m. Drop by to pick up a copy of the book in advance. 410-957-0878, www.worcesterlibrary.org

MAGIC THE GATHERING

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 3:30 p.m. Experienced and novice players welcome. BYOC recommended. For ages 1218 years. 410-208-4014, www.worcesterlibrary.org

ONGOING EVENTS

WINTER TRAIN GARDEN

Ocean City library, 10003 Coastal Highway, December through Jan. 4. Visitors of all ages will delight in interacting with buttons that activate accessories and sounds. A scavenger hunt for young patrons will also be available. 410-5241818

TEENY ART

Snow Hill library, 307 N. Washington St., during December. A themed craft program available in the teen section all month long. December Teeny Art is “Trees.” For ages 12-18 years. 410-6323495

WINTERFEST OF LIGHTS

Northside Park, 200 125th St., Ocean City, 5:30-9:30 p.m. Open Wednesday through Sunday, Nov. 21 through Dec. 22. Open daily Dec. 23-31. Cost is $6 for adults and free to those 11 years and younger. Tour through thousands of sparkling lights and animated Christmas

scenes. Pets welcome on Wednesdays. Scooter rentals ($10/two hours) and wheel chairs available on site: Scooters4-Rent.com, 302-280-6203. For more info: 410-289-2800, https://www.ococean.com/winterfest/. Weather cancellation hotline: 410-250-2124.

PRE-HOLIDAY SHOWING

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

CREATIVITY CORNER

Berlin library, 220 N. Main St., during January. Students engage in STEAM-related projects and crafts. For ages 12-18 years. 410-641-0650

I SPY LIBRARY SCAVENGER HUNT

Pocomoke library, 301 Market St., during January. Drop by to complete the I Spy Library game and enter for a chance to win a puzzle prize. For ages 6-18 years. 410-957-0878

SCAVENGER HUNT: SNOWMAN HUNT

Ocean Pines library, 11107 Cathell Road, during January. Find the snowmen in the children’s area to win a prize. For families. 410-208-4014

TEENY ARTS

Snow Hill library, 307 N. Washington St., during January. A themed craft program available in the teen section all month long. January’s Teeny Art is “Pop Art.” For ages 12-18 years. 410-6323495

TEEN TIMESHARE

Ocean Pines library, 11107 Cathell Road, during January, 3 p.m. to close. Drop in and create a seasonal craft or study for a test in your own teen area. For ages 1218 years. 410-208-4014

JANUARY INSPIRATION CHALLENGE

Snow Hill library, 307 N. Washington St., during January. Art, photography or poetry competition for all ages. Pieces will be displayed in the library for viewing and voting by age bracket. The theme is “Memories.” Due by Jan. 29. 410-632-3495

QUEEN OF HEARTS

Weekly virtual drawings on Tuesdays at 5:30 p.m. Winner receives 60 percent of jackpot. www.opvfd.com/queen-ofhearts. Sponsored by the Ocean Pines Volunteer Fire Department.

Crossword answers from page 42

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

Call

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

YR LONG TERM RENTAL

3BR, 2.5BA, Townhome Avail. Immed. New Construction. Town of Berlin.

$2,500/mo. + utils. (1 year)

$2,400/mo. + utils. (2 year) 410-430-2118

WEEKLY RENTALS

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

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

2 Office/Retail Spaces available in West Ocean City. Approximately 1656 sq. ft. and 1728 sq. ft. Call 443-497-4200

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

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

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

MISC./OTHER

How far must I go? Perhaps to follow a star, Then a humble barn. Forgiveness to see, True Love to behold!

MISC. FOR SALE

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

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

FOR SALE

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

VEHICLES WANTED

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

www.octodaydispatch.com

REAL ESTATE We Buy Houses for Cash AS IS! No repairs. No fuss. Any condition. Easy three step process: Call, get cash offer and get paid. Get your fair cash offer today by calling Liz Buys Houses: 1-866-541-7929 SERVICES

DENTAL 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

1099 WINTERSON ROAD, SUITE 301

LINTHICUM HEIGHTS, MARYLAND 21090 www.cgd-law.com/sales

SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEES' SALE OF

IMPROVED REAL PROPERTY

27 ISLAND EDGE DRIVE, UNIT 27C OCEAN CITY, MD 21842

By authority contained in a Deed of Trust dated November 30, 2005 and recorded in Liber 4598, Folio 750, among the Land Records of Worcester County, Maryland, with an original principal balance of $615,200.00, and an interest rate of 6.500%, default having occurred thereunder, the Substitute Trustees will sell at public auction at the Courthouse door for the Circuit Court for Worcester County, One West Market Street, Snow Hill, MD 21863, on

January 6, 2025 AT 11:00AM

ALL THAT FEE SIMPLE property more fully described in the aforesaid Deed of Trust. The property being sold is a condominium unit and all common elements appurtenant thereto.

Terms of Sale: The property will be sold “as is” subject to any conditions, restrictions, easements and agreements of record affecting same with no warranty of any kind. A deposit of $42,000.00 by certified funds only (no cash accepted) required at time of auction. Balance of the purchase price to be paid within 10 days of ratification of sale by the Court, with interest at the note rate from date of sale to settlement. If settlement is delayed for ANY reason, there shall be no abatement of interest or taxes. All private utility, water and sewer facilities charges, front foot benefit payments, ground rent, or condo/HOA assessments, not otherwise divested by ratification of the sale are payable by purchaser without adjustment. Real estate taxes and all other public charges, or assessments, to be adjusted as of date of sale. Transfer and recordation taxes, and all other costs incident to settlement, shall be borne by purchaser. Purchaser shall be responsible for obtaining physical possession of the property.

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

determines that the sale should not have occurred, the sale shall be null and void, and purchaser's sole remedy shall be the return of deposit without interest.

Richard E. Solomon, et al., Sub. Trustees Tidewater Auctions, LLC (410) 825-2900

www.tidewaterauctions.com

OCD-12/19/3t

BWW Law Group, LLC 6003 Executive Blvd., Suite 101 Rockville, MD 20852 (301) 961-6555

SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEES' SALE OF REAL PROPERTY AND ANY IMPROVEMENTS THEREON

102 HINGHAM LANE, UNIT #27

OCEAN

PINES A/R/T/A BERLIN, MD

21811

Under a power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust dated January 16, 2004, recorded in Liber 4023, Folio 42 among the Land Records of Worcester County, MD, with an original principal balance of $308,360.00, default having occurred under the terms thereof, the Sub. Trustees will sell at public auction at the Circuit Court for Worcester County, at the Court House Door, One W. Market St., Snow Hill, MD 21863, on

JANUARY 7, 2025 AT 4:05 PM

ALL THAT FEE SIMPLE LOT OF GROUND, together with any buildings or improvements thereon located in Worcester County, MD and described as Unit Number 27, of "The Townes at Innerlinks a Condominium" and more fully described in the aforesaid Deed of Trust.

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

Terms of Sale: A deposit of $25,000 in the form of certified check, cashier's check or money order will be required of the purchaser at time and place of sale. Balance of the purchase price, together with interest on the unpaid purchase money at the current rate contained in the Deed of Trust Note, or any modifications thereto, from the date of sale to the date funds are received by the Sub. Trustees, payable in cash within ten days of final ratification of the sale by the Circuit Court. There will be no abatement of interest due to the purchaser in the event additional funds are tendered before settlement. TIME IS OF THE ESSENCE FOR THE PURCHASER. Adjustment of all real property taxes, including agricultural taxes, if applicable, and any and all public and/or private charges or assessments, to the extent such amounts survive foreclosure sale, including water/sewer, ground rent and front foot benefit charges, to be adjusted to date of sale and thereafter assumed by purchaser. Pur-

chaser is responsible for any recapture of homestead tax credit. All transfer taxes and recordation taxes shall be paid by Purchaser. The purchaser shall be responsible for the payment of the ground rent escrow, if required. Condominium fees and/or homeowners association dues, if any, shall be assumed by the purchaser from the date of sale. Purchaser is responsible for obtaining physical possession of the property, and assumes risk of loss or damage to the property from the date of sale. The sale is subject to post-sale audit of the status of the loan with the loan servicer including, but not limited to, determination of whether the borrower entered into any repayment agreement, reinstated or paid off the loan prior to the sale. In any such event, this sale shall be null and void, and the Purchaser's sole remedy, in law or equity, shall be the return of the deposit without interest. If purchaser fails to settle within ten days of ratification, subject to order of court, purchaser agrees that property will be resold and entire deposit retained by Sub. Trustees as liquidated damages for all losses occasioned by the purchaser's default and purchaser shall have no further liability. The purchaser waives personal service of any papers filed in connection with its failure to settle within ten days of ratification and expressly agrees to accept service by first class mail at the address provided by the Purchaser as identified on the Memorandum of Sale. The defaulted purchaser shall not be entitled to any surplus proceeds resulting from said resale even if such surplus results from improvements to the property by said defaulted purchaser. Sub. Trustees will convey either marketable or insurable title. If they cannot deliver one or the other, or if ratification of the sale is denied by the Circuit Court for any reason, the Purchaser's sole remedy, at law or equity, is return of the deposit without interest. (Matter No. 358190-2) Howard N. Bierman, Carrie M. Ward, et. al., Substitute Trustees

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PROPOSAL

SOLICITATION

P04-25 – Canoe, Kayak, and StandUp Paddleboard Concessions

The Mayor & City Council of Ocean City is seeking Proposals from qualified and experienced Vendors to provide for the Canoe, Kayak, and Stand-Up Paddleboard Concessions and for said work to conform with the Proposal Documents.

RFP Documents for the Canoe, Kayak, and Stand-Up Paddleboard Concessions 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 RFP’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.

A pre-proposal meeting will be conducted on THURSDAY, DECEMBER 5TH, 2024 AT 2:00PM AT NORTHSIDE PARK, WEST CONFERENCE ROOM, 200 125TH STREET, OCEAN CITY, MARYLAND, 21842. The last day for questions will be on THURSDAY, DECEMBER 19TH, 2024, AT 3:00PM. Addendum will be posted by close of business on FRIDAY, DECEMBER 20TH, 2024

Sealed RFP Documents are due no later than TUESDAY, JANUARY 7TH, 2025, BY 3:00 PM. RFP submissions will be opened, read aloud, and then remanded back to staff for further review at the PROCUREMENT OFFICE CONFERENCE ROOM, ON THURSDAY, JANUARY 9TH, 2025, AT 10:00AM. RFP’s are to be submitted to the Procurement Office located at 214 65th Street, Ocean City, MD 21842, and the name of the Solicitation (Canoe, Kayak, and Stand-Up Paddleboard Concessions) must be noted on the outside of the package.

Late RFP Documents will not be accepted.

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

OCD-12/5/5t

HEATHER R. KONYAR, ESQ. COCKEY, BRENNAN & MALONEY, P.C. 313 LEMMON HILL LN SALISBURY, MD 21801-4238

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 20441 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF JESSIE R. SELBY

AKA: JESSIE CARTER SELBY

Notice is given that David C. Selby, P.O. Box 211, Pocomoke City, MD 21851-0211 and Steve W. Selby, P.O. Box 211, Pocomoke City, MD 21851-0211, were on December 03, 2024 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Jessie R. Selby who died on February 16, 2019, 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

Mayor & City Council Ocean City, Maryland

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 3rd day of June, 2025.

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

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

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

David C. Selby

Steve W. Selby

Personal Representatives

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: December 12, 2024 OCD-12/12/3t

Mayor & City Council

Ocean City, Maryland

BID SOLICITATION

P05-25 – Landscape Maintenance Services – Public Works South Tram Facility and Bayside Park

The Mayor & City Council of Ocean City is seeking Proposals from qualified and experienced Vendors to provide for the Landscape Maintenance Services – Public Works South Tram Facility and Bayside Park and for said work to conform with the Proposal Documents. BID Documents for the Landscape Maintenance Services – Public Works South Tram Facility and Bayside Park 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 third-

party service. Vendors are responsible for ensuring the completeness and accuracy of their Completed Proposal Documents.

The last day for questions will be on TUESDAY, JANUARY 7TH, 2025, AT 3:00PM. Addendum will be posted by close of business on THURSDAY, JANUARY 9TH, 2025. Sealed BID Documents are due no later than THURSDAY, JANUARY 16TH, 2025, BY 3:00 PM. BID submissions will be opened, read aloud, and then remanded back to staff for further review at the PROCUREMENT OFFICE CONFERENCE ROOM, ON FRIDAY, JANUARY 17TH, 2025, 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 (Landscape Maintenance Services – Public Works South Tram Facility and Bayside Park) 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. OCD-12/12/5t

CHARLES T. CAPUTE ESQ. MCALLISTER, DE TAR, SHOWALTER & WALKER LLC

100 N. WEST STREET EASTON, MD 21601-2710

NOTICE

OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 20444 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF OLIVIA HARRISON PHILLIPS

Notice is given that Brice S. Phillips, 3203 Menia St., Riva, MD 21140-1238, was on December 04, 2024 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Olivia Harrison Phillips who died on August 31, 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 4th day of June, 2025.

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

Brice S. Phillips

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: December 12, 2024. OCD-12/12/3t

NOTICE TO

HOLDERS OF CLASS “B”, “C” AND “D” ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE LICENSES ISSUED BY WORCESTER COUNTY

Pursuant to the Alcoholic Beverages Article, Section 33-2006 of the Annotated Code of Maryland, the Board of License Commissioners for Worcester County has determined that all premises holding a Class “B”, “C”, and “D” Alcoholic Beverage Licenses shall be permitted to sell alcoholic beverages for ON PREMISES CONSUMPTION ONLY until 4:00 a.m. on January 1, 2025.

This notice shall not be construed as enlarging or broadening any other privilege conferred under said license except the (2) two additional hours of sale for ON PREMISES CONSUMPTION ON NEW YEAR’S EVE

BOARD OF LICENSE COMMISSIONERS FOR WORCESTER COUNTY, William E. Esham, Jr., Chairman R. Charles Nichols, Member Mary W. Pusey, Member ***************** April R. Payne, License Administrator OCD-12/12/3t

Mayor & City Council Ocean City, Maryland

BID SOLICITATION

P06-25 – Northside Park Ceiling Grid Replacement

The Mayor & City Council of Ocean City is seeking Proposals from qualified and experienced Vendors to provide for the Northside Park Ceiling Grid Replacement and for said work to conform with the Proposal Documents.

BID Documents for the Northside Park Ceiling Grid Replacement may be obtained from the Town’s Procurement Department by either emailing 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. A pre-proposal meeting will be conducted on TUESDAY, JANUARY 7TH, 2025 AT 10:00AM AT NORTHSIDE PARK, WEST CONFERENCE ROOM, 200 125TH STREET, OCEAN CITY, MARYLAND 21842. ATTENDANCE IS MANDATORY PER FORM OF BID. The last day for questions will be on THURSDAY, JANUARY 16TH, 2025, AT 3:00PM. Addendum will be posted by close of business on MONDAY, JANUARY 20TH, 2025.

Sealed BID Documents are due no later than THURSDAY, JANUARY 23RD, 2025, BY 3:00 PM. BID submissions will be opened, read aloud, and then remanded back to staff for further review at the PROCUREMENT OFFICE CONFERENCE ROOM, ON FRIDAY, JANUARY 24TH, 2025, 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 (Northside Park Ceiling Grid Replacement) 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. OCD-12/12/6t

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

ANDREW J. BRENNER, et al. 6003 Executive Blvd., Suite 101 Rockville, MD 20852

Substitute Trustees/ Plaintiffs vs.

FREDERICK E. WILLIAMS (DECEASED) 807 Market Street Pocomoke City, MD 21851 Defendant(s) IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR WORCESTER COUNTY, MARYLAND Case No. C-23-CV-24-000165

NOTICE

Notice is hereby given this 6th day of December, 2024, by the Circuit Court for Worcester County, Maryland, that the sale of the property mentioned in these proceedings and described as 807 Market Street, Pocomoke City, MD 21851, made and reported by the Substitute Trustee, will be RATIFIED AND CONFIRMED, unless cause to the contrary thereof be shown on or before the 6th day of January, 2025, provided a copy of this NOTICE be inserted in some weekly newspaper printed in said County, once in each of three successive weeks before the 30th day of December, 2024. The report states the purchase price at the Foreclosure sale to be $58,000.00.

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-12/12/3t

K. ALICE YOUNG, ESQ. NUSINOV SMITH, LLP

2800 QUARRY LAKE DRIVE, SUITE 160

BALTIMORE, MD 21209

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 20447

TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF EDWARD J. KNEAVEL

AKA: EDWARD JOHN KNEAVEL

Notice is given that Joseph E. Kneavel, 2931 Winters Chase Way, Annapolis, MD 21401-7285, was on December 09, 2024 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Edward J. Kneavel who died on October 26, 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 9th day of June, 2025.

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

Joseph E. Kneavel

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: December 12, 2024 OCD-12/12/3t

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

Estate No. 20438

TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF

JEANNETTE NICHOLS MURRAY

Notice is given that Kristin Cole

PUBLIC NOTICE

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

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

These three weeks of notification begins on DATE: 12/20/2024

All vehicles will be sold at auction on-line at www.govdeals.com. For details call 410-723-6643.

AUTH: Michael Colbert I-Chief of Police

Murray, 22A Williams St., Berlin, MD 21811-1247, was on December 06, 2024 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Jeannette Nichols Murray who died on November 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 6th day of June, 2025.

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

Kristin Cole Murray 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: December 12, 2024. OCD-12/12/3t

REENA J. PATEL ESQ. LAW OFFICE OF MARIANNA BATIE 1321 MOUNT HERMON RD., STE. B SALISBURY, MD 21804-5303

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

To all persons interested in the estate of LINDA M. GALE Estate No. 20436 Notice is given that KIMBERLY GALE PATRICK whose address is 85 HIGH SHERIFF TRL., BERLIN, MD 21811-2045, COURTNEY GALE whose address is P.O BOX 192, BISHOP, GA 30621-0192 were on DECEMBER 06, 2024 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of LINDA M. GALE who died on NOVEMBER 20, 2024 with a will.

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

All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent's will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 6th day of JUNE, 2025

(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

OCD-12/19/3t

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-12/12/3t

BID SOLICITATION

Lewis Road Gravity Sewer System and Pump Station

Worcester County is seeking Bids from qualified Vendors to contract for the construction of the Lewis Road Gravity Sewer and Pump Station 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.

A pre-bid conference will be held on site at Worcester County Depart-

ment of Public Works, 1000 Shore Lane, Berlin, MD, on January 9, 2025, at 10:00am. The last day for questions will be January 22, 2025. Sealed Bid Documents are due no later than January 29, 2025, at 2:30pm, 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 – Lewis Road Gravity Sewer System and Pump Station”, 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-12/19/3t

LOUIS J. WEINKAM JR., ESQ.

WEINKAM & WEINKAM, P.A.

1002 FREDERICK ROAD

CATONSVILLE, MD 21228

NOTICE

OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 20452 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF CHARLES TROY HANNA

Notice is given that James Hanna, 941 Elm Ridge Ave., Baltimore, MD 21229-4838, was on December 11, 2024 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Charles Troy Hanna who died on November 25, 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 June, 2025.

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

James Hanna 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: December 19, 2024 OCD-12/19/3t

STEPHEN J. REICHERT ESQ. 2221 LAKE AVE. BALTIMORE, MD 21213-1015

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE

ESTATE NO. 20457

Notice is given that the Probate Court of Travis County, Texas appointed Teresa C.Y. Hvizdos, 821 Post Oak Dr., Dripping Spgs., TX 78620-4110 as the Indepent Executor of the Estate of Robert P. Youngberg AKA: Robert Perrin Youngberg who died on January 07, 2022 domiciled in Texas, USA.

The Maryland resident agent for service of process is Stephen J. Reichert whose address is 2221 Lake Ave., Baltimore, MD 21213-1015.

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.

Teresa C.Y. Hvizdos

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: December 19, 2024. OCD-12/19/3t

RACHEL B HARRIS ESQ

LAW OFFICE OF RACHEL B. HARRIS, LLC

P O BOX 62

POCOMOKE CITY, MD 21851

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

To all persons interested in the estate of JOHN FRANCIS MANNIEL III Estate No. 20459 Notice is given that DIANA TOLEDO MARTIN whose address is 619 HILLCREST DR POCOMOKE CITY, MD 218519507 was on DECEMBER 17, 2024

appointed Personal Representative of the estate of JOHN FRANCIS MANNIEL III who died on NOVEMBER 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 17th day of JUNE, 2025.

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

TERRI WESTCOTT, Register of Wills for WORCESTER COUNTY ONE W MARKET STREET ROOM 102 - COURT HOUSE SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1074 OCD-12/26/3t

NOTICE

OF PUBLIC HEARING WORCESTER COUNTY BOARD OF ZONING APPEALS AGENDA

THURSDAY JANUARY 9, 2025

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. Case No. 25-5, on the lands of Mary and John Cosentino, requesting an after-the-fact variance to the side yard setback from 8 feet to 7.49 feet (to encroach 0.51 foot) for an existing accessory structure 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 18 Tail of the Fox Drive, Tax Map 16, Parcel 46, Section 9, Lot 575, Tax District 3, Worcester County, Maryland.

6:35 p.m. Case No. 25-2, on the lands of Fedale Berlin LLC, on the application of Matt Wiley, requesting a special exception to allow the expansion of a nonconforming use and structure in order to construct a roof over a proposed 6’ x 20’ porch addition to a single-family residence in the C-2 General Commercial Dis-

trict, pursuant to Zoning Code §§ ZS 1-116(c)(5), ZS 1-122(d)(1), ZS 1116(c)(3), ZS 1-210 and ZS 1-305, located approximately 1,600 feet west of Herring Creek Lane between Grays Corner Road and U.S. Route 50, Tax Map 26, Parcel 347, Tax District 10, Worcester County, Maryland.

6:40 p.m. Case No. 25-3, on the lands of William Cross and Joseph Hodski, on the application of J. Stacey Hart & Associates, Inc., requesting a variance to the side lot line setbacks on Lots 330 & 331 from 6 feet to 0 feet for a proposed shared dock in the R-3 Multi-family Residential District, pursuant to Zoning Code §§ ZS 1-116(n)(3), ZS 1207(d)(6), and ZS 1-335, and Natural Resources Code §§ 2-102(e)(2) , located at 154 & 253 Teal Circle, Tax Map 16, Parcel 41, Section 4, Lots 330 & 331, Tax District 3, Worcester County, Maryland.

6:45 p.m. Case No. 25-4, on the lands of Kathy and Carmine Picarelli, on the application of Josette Wheatley, requesting two (2) afterthe-fact variances to each side lot line setback for an existing dock and two (2) variances to each side lot line setback for a proposed floating dock from 6 feet to 3.15 feet (to encroach 2.85 feet) for each structure on the property’s north side and from 6 feet to 1.23 feet (to encroach 4.77 feet) for each structure on the property’s south side in the R-2 Suburban Residential District, pursuant to Zoning Code §§ ZS 1-116(n)(3), ZS 1206(d)(6), and ZS 1-335, and Natural Resources Code §§ 2-102(e)(2), located at 14 Drawbridge Road, Tax Map 16, Parcel 42, Section 5, Lot 98, Tax District 3, Worcester County, Maryland.

6:50 p.m. Case No. 24-74, on the lands of Nancy and William Jenkins, on the application of Kristina Watkowski, requesting a variance to reduce the Atlantic Coastal Bays Critical Area Buffer from 100 feet to 23.65 feet (to encroach 76.35 feet) for a proposed patio and fence in the R2 Suburban Residential District, pursuant to Zoning Code §§ ZS 1116(m) and ZS 1-305 and Natural Resources Code §§ 3-104(d)(4) and NR 3-111, located at 12406 Coastal Marsh Drive, Tax Map 33, Parcel 281, Lot 56, Tax District 10, Worcester County, Maryland.

6:55 p.m. Case No. 25-1, on the lands of Gary and Tracy Desjardins, on the application of Kristina Watkowski, requesting an after-thefact variance to reduce the Atlantic Coastal Bays Critical Area Buffer from 100 feet to 31.9 feet (to encroach 68.1 feet) for an existing paver patio and walkway in the E-1 Estate District, pursuant to Zoning Code §§ ZS 1-116(m) and ZS 1-305 and Natural Resources Code §§ 3104(d)(4) and NR 3-111, located at 11323 Newport Bay Drive, Tax Map 50, Parcel 50, Lot 14, Tax District 10, Worcester County, Maryland.

7:00 p.m. Case No. 25-6, on the lands of DW RE Holdings, LLC, on the application of Hugh Cropper, IV, requesting a special exception for proposed outdoor batting cages and two (2) variances to the 100 foot setback from an arterial highway for batting cages from 100 feet to 20.2

feet (to encroach 79.8 feet) and for a relocated storage shed from 100 feet to 38.8 feet (to encroach 61.2 feet) in the C-2 General Commercial District, pursuant to Zoning Code §§ ZS 1-116(c)(3), ZS 1-116(c)(4), ZS 1210(c)(1), and ZS 1-305(b)2, located at 9810 Hammond Road, Tax Map 9, Parcel 378, Lot 1, Tax District 5, Worcester County, Maryland.

7:05 p.m. Case No. 25-7, on the lands of DW RE Holdings, LLC, on the application of Hugh Cropper, IV, requesting a special exception for an outdoor commercial recreation establishment (baseball practice infield), a special exception to allow a 20-foot high fence, and a variance to the 100 foot setback from an arterial highway for a baseball backstop from 100 feet to 25.27 feet (to encroach 74.73 feet) in the C-2 General Commercial District, pursuant to Zoning Code §§ ZS 1-116(c)(3), ZS 1116(c)(4), ZS 1-210(c)(1), ZS 1305(b)2 and ZS 1-305(k)(3), located on the east side of Worcester Highway approximately 500 feet south of Hammond Road, Tax Map 9, Parcel 378, Parcel 2, Tax District 5, Worcester County, Maryland.

OCD-12/26/2t

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS

SALE OF FORMER SNOW HILL FIREHOUSE

The Town of Snow Hill is seeking proposals from professional real estate companies/agents to represent the Mayor and Council of Snow Hill in the sale of the former Snow Hill Firehouse, located at 212 West Green Street. The property is further identified on State Department of Assessments & Taxation Tax Map 0200, Grid 0009, Parcel 0105. The structure was built in 1950 and is located on a lot consisting of 11,471 square feet and is zoned B-1 Downtown Shopping District. The Town commissioned two separate appraisals of the property within the last two years, and they are available for your review. Interested respondents should submit five (5) sealed paper proposals marked SEALED PROPOSAL: FIREHOUSE SALE LISTING, including: 1) company name & address; (2) name of the agent that will be handling property; (3) qualifications of firm and agent; (4) list of sample clients; (5) proposed commission percentage; (6) proposed length of listing agreement; and (7) your detailed methodology and strategy for marketing and selling the property to the greatest benefit of the citizens of Snow Hill. Proposals are due at the Snow Hill Town Hall, 103 Bank Street, Snow Hill, Maryland 21863 no later than 4:00 p.m. on Friday, January 10, 2025. Emailed submissions will not be accepted. The RFP response shall be signed and dated by an authorized agent, with legal authority to bind the same. The Town administration expects to

make a selection promptly thereafter. A complete copy of the Request for Proposals may be found on the town web site at www.snowhillmd.gov. For further information, contact Administrative Coordinator Kandice Ringenary at 410-632-2080. Rick Pollitt, Town Manager. OCD-12/26/1t

MAYOR AND COUNCIL OF SNOW HILL NOTICE

OF PROPOSED LEGISLATION ORDINANCE 2024-17

NOTICE is hereby given by the Mayor and Council of Snow Hill that Ordinance 2024-17 was introduced for first reading at their regular meeting on December 10, 2024. A fair summary of the ordinance is as follows: An ordinance to amend CHAPTER 134, ENTITLED PROPERTY MANAGEMENT, ARTICLE II, ENTITLED VACANT NON-RESIDENTIAL AND MIXED OCCUPANCY BUILDING REGISTRATION OF THE CODE OF THE TOWN OF SNOW HILL, MARYLAND to amend the fee for the registration of a building is: first year registration - $500, Second year registration - $1000, Third year registration - $2000 and fourth and subsequent years registration$4000. The second reading will take place on January 14, 2025 at the regular Town Hall meeting. A complete text of the ordinance is available for review at Town Hall, 103 Bank Street, Snow Hill, MD 21863.

OCD-12/26/1t

MAYOR AND COUNCIL OF SNOW HILL NOTICE

OF PROPOSED LEGISLATION ORDINANCE 2024-18

NOTICE is hereby given by the Mayor and Council of Snow Hill that Ordinance 2024-18 was introduced for first reading at their regular meeting on December 10, 2024. A fair summary of the ordinance is as follows: An ordinance to amend CHAPTER 131, ENTITLED PENALTIES, FEES, FINES AND OTHER CHARGES, SECTION 1318, ENTITLED DOCKING FEES OF THE CODE OF THE TOWN OF SNOW HILL, MARYLAND to eliminate monthly and yearly use of the Town of Snow Hill waterfront property and to eliminate all such charges and the charge for daily docking. The second reading will take place on January 14, 2025 at the regular Town Hall meeting. A complete text of the ordinance is

available for review at Town Hall, 103 Bank Street, Snow Hill, MD 21863.

OCD-12/26/1t

MAYOR AND COUNCIL OF SNOW HILL NOTICE OF PROPOSED LEGISLATION ORDINANCE 2024-19

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.

Richard Craig Davidson Jr. Clinton William Davidson Personal Representatives 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:

December 26, 2024. OCD-12/26/3t

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

NOTICE

OCD-12/26/1t

NOTICE is hereby given by the Mayor and Council of Snow Hill that Ordinance 2024-19 was introduced for first reading at their regular meeting on December 10, 2024. A fair summary of the ordinance is as follows: An ordinance to amend CHAPTER 162, ENTITLED STREETS AND SIDEWALKS OF THE CODE OF THE TOWN OF SNOW HILL, MARYLAND to eliminate overnight use of the Town of Snow Hill waterfront property and to regulate the daily use of the waterfront property. The second reading will take place on January 14, 2025 at the regular Town Hall meeting. A complete text of the ordinance is available for review at Town Hall, 103 Bank Street, Snow Hill, MD 21863.

JAMES W. ALMAND ESQ

AYRES JENKINS GORDY & ALMAND, PA

6200 COASTAL HIGHWAY, SUITE 200 OCEAN CITY, MD 21842

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 20453 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF RICHARD CRAIG DAVIDSON SR.

Notice is given that Richard Craig Davidson, Jr., 27852 Davidson Ln., Frankford, DE 19945-3853; and Clinton William Davidson, 10228 Bishopville Rd., Bishopville, MD 21813-1210, were on December 18, 2024 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Richard Craig Davidson Sr. who died on October 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 18th day of June, 2025.

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

(2) Two months after the personal representative mails or otherwise

OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 20458 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF RICHARD RUSSELL HARTLEY Notice is given that Bryan M. Hartley, 16 Sloop Ln., Berlin, MD 21811-1608, was on December 19, 2024 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Richard Russell Hartley who died on September 23, 2024, with a will. Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal representative or the attorney.

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

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

Bryan M. Hartley

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: December 26, 2024

OCD-12/26/3t

DAVID C. HARTY, ESQ. 8843 GREENBELT RD PMB 125 GREENBELT, MD 20770-2451

NOTICE

TO CREDITORS OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE ESTATE NO. 20462

NOTICE IS GIVEN that the Superior Court of District of Columbia county, District of Columbia appointed Sharon Banks Duncan, 14601 Locustwood Ln., Silver Spring, MD 20905-6423 as the Personal Representative of the Estate of Vera Jiggetts Banks who died on August 31, 2023 domiciled in District of Columbia, America.

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

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

Sharon Banks Duncan 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: December 26, 2024. OCD-12/26/3t

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARINGS BOARD OF PORT WARDENS

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

located at 301 Baltimore Avenue, Ocean City, Maryland.

Thursday, January 9, 2025 2:00 PM

PW 24-001 A request has been submitted to install one boatlift on existing pilings not to exceed 17’ channelward. The site of the proposed construction is described as being located at 501 SEAWEED LN LOT 1 Parcel # 9927A-1 in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.

OWNER: David Freebery

APPLICANT: Kayla Short

PW 25-002 A request has been submitted to remove an existing floating dock, and install one boatlift with associated pilings not to exceed 12’9” channelward. The site of the proposed construction is described as being located at 608 OSPREY RD UNIT 4 Parcel # 5249 -4 in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.

OWNER: Ken Berger

APPLICANT: Kayla Short

PW 25-003 A request has been submitted to remove existing pier and one PWC float; construct a new 2.5’ x 20’ pier and install one boat lift with associated pilings a maximum channelward extension of 20’. The site of the proposed construction is described as being located at 121 70TH ST UNIT 4 Parcel # 6641 -4 in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.

OWNER: Il H. Pak

APPLICANT: J. Stacey Hart, Inc.

PW 25-004 A request has been submitted to install one boat lift with associated pilings a maximum channelward extension of 40’. The site of the proposed construction is described as being located at 425 14TH ST UNIT 107 – Slip 31 Parcel # 3486 -107 in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.

OWNER: Randal & Heather

Newcomer

APPLICANT: J. Stacey Hart, Inc.

OCD-12/26/2t

Mayor & City Council Ocean City, Maryland

BID SOLICITATION

Turf Fertilization and Weed Control Services

The Mayor & City Council of Ocean City is seeking Proposals from qualified and experienced Vendors to provide for the Turf Fertilization and Weed Control Services and for said work to conform with the Proposal Documents.

BID Documents for the Turf Fertilization and Weed Control Services 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.

A pre-proposal meeting is not applicable for this RFP. The last day for questions will be on TUESDAY, JANUARY 14TH, 2025, AT 3:00PM Addendum will be posted by close of business on TUESDAY, JANUARY 21ST, 2025

Sealed BID Documents are due no later than THURSDAY, JANUARY 23RD, 2025, BY 3:00 PM. BID submissions will be opened, read aloud, and then remanded back to staff for further review at the PROCUREMENT OFFICE CONFERENCE ROOM, ON TUESDAY, JANUARY 28TH, 2025, 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 (Turf Fertilization and Weed Control Services) 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. OCD-12/26/5t

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

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

Thursday, January 9, 2025 at 6:00 PM

Pursuant to the provisions of Section 110-93(3), Powers, of the Code, an application has been filed in accordance with the provisions of Section 110-95(1)(a) requesting a variance to the minimum yard requirements to allow the depth of two lots to be less than 100’ as required by Code Section 110-276(2). These new lots, Lot 1A and Lot 2A, will be created by the proposed resubdivision of Parcel 9999, Lots 1, 2 and 3 of Block E, as shown on the attached Subdivision Plat. The site of the appeal is described as Lots 1, 2 and 3, Block E of the Oceanbay City Plat; further described as located on the corner of Chesapeake Drive and Bering Road, and locally known as

401 Bering Road, in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.

APPLICANT: HUGH CROPPER, IV, ATTY FOR VASILIOS D & JENNIFER L KIRITSIS – (BZA 2707 #24-09500005)

6:10 PM

Pursuant to the provisions of Section 110-93(2), Powers, of the Code, an application has been filed in accordance with the provisions of Section 110-94(2)(b) requesting a special parking exception to design standards of Code Section 110-935(i)(1) to allow tandem parking so that one of the two required parking spaces on the driveway is behind the singlecar garage, restricted for use of that dwelling unit only. The site of the appeal is described as Tax Map 0115, Grid 10, Parcels C and D of the OCTC Holdings, LLC, Plat, further described as located on the west side of Coastal Highway between 94th and 99th Streets, and known locally as 9507 Coastal Hwy, in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.

APPLICANT: JOSEPH E MOORE, ESQ., for OCTC HOLDINGS, PARCEL C, LLC & PARCEL D, LLC –(BZA 2706 #24-09400027) 6:20 PM

Pursuant to the provisions of Section 110-93(2), Powers, of the Code, an application has been filed in accordance with the provisions of Section 110-94(2)(b) requesting a special parking exception to design standards of Code Section 110-935(i)(1) to allow for enclosed garages with one (1) parking space to have an 8foot clear garage door opening instead of 10 feet as required for a reduction of 2 feet, for the proposed 116 townhouses on both Parcels C and D. The site of the appeal is described as Tax Map 0115, Grid 10, Parcels C and D of the OCTC Holdings, LLC, Plat; further described as located on the west side of Coastal Highway between 94th and 99th Streets, and known locally as 9507 Coastal Highway, in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.

APPLICANT: HUGH CROPPER, IV, ATTY FOR OCTC HOLDINGS, PARCEL C, LLC & PARCEL D, LLC – (BZA 2709 #24-09400028) 6:30 PM

Pursuant to the provisions of Section 110-93(2), Powers, of the Code, an application has been filed in accordance with the provisions of Section 110-94(2)(b), requesting an after-the-fact special parking exception to allow one of two required offstreet parking spaces to be 16.50’ in length so that the landing and steps may remain as constructed. The site of the appeal is described as Lot 14, Block G of the Oceanbay City Plat; further described as located on the south side of N. Pacific Avenue, and known locally as 607 N. Pacific Ave, in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.

APPLICANT: BRYAN J & KIMBERLY HOWLIN – (BZA 2705 #2409400026)

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-12/26/2t

ESTATE MARKETPLACE

MOVIE RUN/WALK

In honor of the 25th anniversary of the release of the movie “Runaway Bride,’ a fun run/walk was organized in Berlin. More than 270 people participated in August, raising about $9,000 for the charity Worcester GOLD.

SUMMERTRADITION

Downtown Snow Hill celebrated its annual Blessing of the Combines on August 3 with a variety of activities and vendors, but the highlight was once again the parade celebrating local farmers.

SUNRISE GLORY

A memorable late August sunrise was taken in by the Reid family from Michigan who enjoyed frontrow seats to one of the most colorful scenes offered by Mother Nature.

MICROBURST DESTROYS PAVILION

The

DAAYY/TIME

Fri-Mon 11am-4pm H Mon-Fri 9am-4pm, Sat 11amMon-Fri 9am-4pm, Sat 11amFriday 1-3pm 2

Saturrdday 11am-1pm 5401

Saturrdday 10am-1pm 107

Saturrdday 11am-1pm 9 46th S

Saturrdday 11am-1pm

Saturrdday 11am-2pm

Saturrdday Noon-2pm

Saturrdday 1:30-3:30pm 202 S.

Saturrdday 2-4pm 116

ADDRESSBR/BASTYLEPRICE

on Harbour erro r, , 120th St., Bayside 1BR/2BR/3BR/4BR+ Condos, T Toowns & SF3pm 12346 Old Bridge Rd, West OC3BR/2BASingle Familystarting at $23 3pm 12346 Old Bridge Rd, West OC2BR/1BASingle Familystarting at $17 261 Charleston Rd., Ocean Pines 4BR/4.5BA Single Family $849,900 Coastal Highway Unit 204, Ocean City2BR/2BACondo$444,900 7 Somerset St. Unit 301, Ocean City3BR/2BACondo$725,000 St., Unit 6 Old Wharf Condos, Ocean City 1BR/1BA Condo $295,995 142nd Strreeet #213, Ocean City 1BR/1.5BA Condo $374,900 19 Liberty Strreeet, Ocean Pines 3BR/2BASingle Family$389,900 73 King Richarrd d Road, Berlin 4BR/2.5BA Single Family $749,900 on Harbour

Sunday Noon-2pm2

Sunday 10am-1pm10

0Nancy Reither/Coldwell

0Katie Landon/Coldwell

5 Steve Grreeen/Coastal Life

0 Laurreen Bunting/Keller W

0Katie Landon/Coldwell

0 Nancy Reither/Coldwell

0Nancy Reither/Coldwell

0Katie Landon/Coldwell Banker Realty

0Nancy Reither/Coldwell Banker Realty

0Katie Landon/Coldwell Banker Realty

4BR/2.5BA d Road, Berlin 73 King Richar

Nancy Reither/Coldwell

remains of the Bishoville Park pavilion that was flattened during a “microburst” in late May are pictured on Aug. 5.

PEACH FEST CROWDS

The Calvin B. Taylor House Museum on August 3 hosted its 16th Annual Peach Festival on its lawn featuring a variety of vendors, including those devoted to all things peach.

AUGUST AIR SHOW

Members of the Italian Air Force’s Freece Tricoloi (or “tri-color arrows”) demo team streak across the sky at the 2024 OC Air Show.

SURFERS HEALING

Over 200 individuals on the Autism spectrum were treated to surf sessions on Aug. 14 in front of the Castle in the Sand Hotel courtesy of Surfers Healing, a traveling surf camp created to show people with disabilities of all ages the wonders of the ocean

FIDDLING FUN

Hundreds of people converged on the Town of Berlin in September for the annual Fiddlers Convention, which featured live entertainment throughout the weekend.

CELEBRATING A GOAL

SHARING LOVE OF MUSIC

Music director Emily Martin with a vibrant class of students at Buckingham Elementary School on Sept. 3.

PUBLIC SCHOOLS HALL OF FAME

The first-ever group of inductees to the Worcester County Public Schools Hall of Fame included Gladys Burbage, Rick Chapman, Roxie Connelly, Coralee Fraschetti, Frederick D. Grant Sr., and Elaine Spry.

Stephen Decatur High School soccer player Emma Walsh, left, is pictured celebrating a goal at a Sept. 16 home game by Samatha Ruppert that she assisted on. Emma’s brother, Tyler, was critically injured the week before in a hit-and-run collision with a motorcyclist.

Mother Nature dialed up a beautiful weekend for Sunfest Kite Festival on Sept. 20 in Ocean City.

Michael DePalma and Erin Shimko volunteered their

Ladies, above, Killers, below left, and The Beaches, below.

BEACH BASH FUNDRAISER

The Believe In Tomorrow Foundation hosted its annual Beach Bash 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. From left, are volunteers Gene Ringsdorf, Judy Jameson, Hank Meixner, Lyn Meixner, Norm Disney, Maureen McGorry and Bernie McGorry.

ANNUAL BLESSING

SUPPORTING CHILDREN’S HOUSE

Amanda Koontz, advancement associate, and Mary Decker Brown, program manager, are pictured.

An annual Blessing of the Animals was held Oct. 6 at St. Paul's Episcopal Church in Berlin, where a macaw parrot showed up for some prayers and blessings.

DOCK DOGS IN RESORT

The National Sportsmen’s Series was in Ocean City at Sunfest for the return of the Dock Dogs event on Oct. 26. Above, Kona soars high with his eye on the prize.

PUPPY SWIM FUN

HOUSEBOAT IN OC

As city officials debated whether to allow houseboats in resort waters, this houseboat was moored Oct. 8 at the Dorchester Street marina, despite a court order to move it. A lawsuit was dropped.

CELEBRATING GRADS

Atlantic General Hospital Foundation’s fourth annual Puppy Swim and Yappy Hour was held Oct. 13 at the 61st Street Marriott in Ocean City.

From left, Anthony W. “Chip” Bertino Jr., president of the Worcester County Commissioners; Sen. Mary Beth Carozza; Dr. Sanjay Rai, secretary of education, Maryland Higher Education Commission; Deborah Casey, Ph.D., president of Wor-Wic Community College; and John T. Cannon, president of the Wicomico County Council pause for a photo before the inauguration ceremony at the Wicomico Youth & Civic Center in Salisbury.

‘GO FINS’

Deborah Casey, Ph.D., celebrates with a “Go Fins!” cheer at the close of her speech at the Wor-Wic Community College inauguration ceremony at the Wicomico Youth & Civic Center in Salisbury.

NORTHERN LIGHTS

Assateague Island provided a dark and perfect view of the Northern Lights in October.

CANDIDATES FORUM

the local IAFF union in Ocean City hosted a candidates forum for Mayor and Council candidates in October. Pictured, from left, are candidates Tony DeSanctis, Jake Mitrecic and Larry Yates.

SWELLTIME

AFTER-SCHOOL ART CLASS

Pocomoke Elementary School held its first after-school art class, an outreach program of the Art League of Ocean City. Instructor Maya Benson and the "Art Blazers" studied artist Alma Thomas, a public school teacher in Washington, D.C. They discussed how her artwork used many colors and different designs, and they used her as inspiration to design art squares.

Surfer Mark Barney of Virginia Beach is pictured inside a swell Oct. 23 near 49th Street.

ELECTION SEASON

BUAS CHALLENGES MEEHAN

Former

MEEHAN PREVAILS

Though

FORUM HELD

Today-Dispatch Editor Stewart Dobson serves as moderator of the October Ocean City forum.

Ocean City Mayor Rick Meehan and Councilman Peter Buas are pictured during the candidate’s forum in October.

Ocean City Councilman Peter Buas gave up a run at his second term on the council to challenge Mayor Rick Meehan for his 10th term as mayor.

it was the tightest contest in his mayoral career, Mayor Rick Meehan, pictured at a candidates forum in October, prevailed over Buas in the November election.

A well-attended Mayor and Council forum was held in Ocean City in October. Pictured, from left, are candidates Tony DeSanctis, Jake Mitrecic, Larry Yates, Denis Jenkins, Councilman John Gehrig, George Leukel and Councilman Tony DeLuca.

MAYOR RE-ELECTED

COUNCIL ADDS 2 NEW FACES

After all the votes were counted after the November municipal election, Ocean City voters re-elected John Gehrig and Tony DeLuca and added newcomers Jake Mitrecic and Larry Yates.

Rick Meehan was sworn in for his 10th term as mayor of Ocean City on Nov. 7 at City Hall alongside his family. Meehan defeated Peter Buas, who gave up his council seat to challenge Meehan for mayor.

Firefighters from multiple departments responded Nov. 30 to a house fire on Twin Tree Road in the Caine Woods neighborhood of Ocean City. Nobody was hurt.

MOON TREE COMES TO SNOW HILL

As a selected recipient of one of NASA’s Artemis I Moon Trees, Snow Hill Middle School received a Loblolly Pine sapling that orbited the Moon aboard the Orion spacecraft during the 2022 Artemis I mission. This rare and historic tree was planted on school grounds Nov. 18, symbolizing the intersection of space exploration and environmental stewardship.

NEW K-9 TEAM UNIFORMS

Members of the Ocean City Police Department’s K-9 team gathered with their partners last week to show off their new green uniforms.

FEMALE VETS CELEBRATED

Germantown School celebrated Women Veterans at a panel discussion on Nov. 9. Pictured, from left, are panelists Grace Cephas, Staff Sgt Army; Gladys Holland, E7 Army; Sherry Elzey, Sgt Army Reserve; Emeritus Professor Dr. Clara Small, History, Salisbury University; Gwen Wise, OS2 Navy; and Pastina Tingle, Petty Officer Navy.

DAY

CULINARY LEADER HONORED

VETERANS

WPS siblings, fifth grader Jace Zervakos (left) and second grader Harper Zervakos (right) of Selbyville, Delaware, spent the morning with their father, CPL Joshua Zervakos of the United States Marine Corps (center), during the annual Veterans Day Program at Worcester Preparatory School.

Worcester Tech’s Phil Cropper (left) is pictured with students Alex Monteverde, Zoey Wissler, and Arian Foreman. Cropper won the Mary Gay Calcott Excellence in Education Award for his innovative plan to use hydroponics to teach sustainable agriculture and

dents.

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Between the Lines

By Steve Green

In the first issue of each year, I toss out dozens of predictions about what I see making news for the year ahead. It’s time to look back on how my predictions for 2024 turned out. It was a down year on the crystal ball front, but I resolve to do better next week with a look ahead to 2025.

On The Money

• The Town of Ocean City did announce an intention to sue the federal government over offshore wind. I was a bit off, however, when I suggested the litigation would slow the offshore wind development process. Throughout most of 2024, US Wind was successful in securing approvals, but this month Worcester and Sussex counties each made decisions to put the project in jeopardy. Next year is shaping up to be a dramatic year on the offshore wind front.

• As predicted, a second music festival did follow up Oceans Calling Festival in October. I was right it did spotlight the country genre but I didn’t know the name, which would later become known as Country Calling.

• The Maryland General Assembly did approve enabling legislation allowing Worcester County, and other counties, to increase the room tax rate from 5% to 6%. Oddly enough no talk on the local front has happened yet about adjusting the rate ahead of next season.

• The Berlin Planning Commission did approve the revised design plans for the new Wawa planned for the corner of Main Street and Route 50. The site has been cleared with construction expected to start in 2025.

• A traffic light was, as I thought, approved for the intersection of Route 50 and Main Street. The traffic light, however, could be another year from being placed at the intersection due to the state’s funding woes.

• The year did end with the Route 90 reconstruction project much in doubt as expected.

• The monster truck event planned in Ocean City for 2024 was scrapped amid concerns.

Off The Mark

• My inclination a plea arrangement would be announced in the Gavin Knupp case turned out to be wrong. I suspected alleged motorist Tyler Mailloux would admit to being behind the wheel of the vehicle that killed Knupp in 2022 in exchange for a short jail sentence. Neither happened. The trial is set for March.

• It was wrong to say the school system would begin a national search in 2024 after Worcester County Superintendent of Schools Lou Taylor would make official his intent “to not serve beyond his current four-year contract, which expires in July 2025.” No such search has been announced.

• Oceans Calling did return with much success and fanfare in Ocean City, but my prediction was off when I said all three days would be beautiful. Friday was a total washout, but Saturday and Sunday were nice.

• The Worcester County Commissioners did not for the second consecutive year approve a Maintenance of Effort budget for the public school system. I thought they would by a 4-3 vote. Instead, by a 4-3 vote, the commissioners approved $105.4 million for the school system. The school system requested $108 million. The approved amount was much higher than the $100 million approved the year before, however.

• Unlike what I thought, the year did include news Buckingham Elementary School will be reconstructed in Berlin. I feared the year would come and go without any significant change in the state’s position on not contributing state funding to the project. The state did agree to commit funding to the new project, but the county will foot a majority of the cost.

• The Maryland General Assembly did not hold a special summer legislative session to address financial budget issues this year.

• President Biden did not defeat challenger Trump in his re-election bid. Instead, Trump soundly defeated Biden’s replacement on the ticket, Vice President Kamala Harris.

• I was happy to be wrong with my prediction Stephen Decatur’s football team would lose in the final four round of the state playoffs. Decatur went back-to-back and capped off an undefeated season earlier this month.

• Long-time Ocean City Public Works Director Hal Adkins did not retire as a I predicted. Instead, it was Ocean City Police Chief Ross Buzzuro who retired unexpectedly.

• Construction of a scaled down project on the former Phillips Beach Plaza site between 13th and 14th streets did not begin in 2024. As the year is ending, demolition of the hotel is underway and site plan approval was extended this month to allow the developer more time.

• The White Marlin Open did not set a new purse and boat participation record in August, but the turnout was still solid. The Waste Knot won $3.7 million with a 77.5-pound white marlin.

• The Ravens did not defeat the 49ers in the Super Bowl. It was the Chiefs who downed the 49ers, 25-22.

YEAR IN PHOTOS

HEAVENLY HATS SPIRIT

Ocean City Elementary School held its annual Heavenly Hats Spirit Day on Nov. 7. For a $1 donation, students, faculty and staff had the privilege of wearing a hat to school. This year, $612.00 was collected for the Heavenly Hats Foundation. Since 2001, the Heavenly Hats Foundation has donated more than 5,800,000 brand new hats to hundreds of hospitals and clinics around the United States to help those battling hair loss associated with cancer treatments. Pictured above left, above right and below right are some spirited displays.

COLLEGE SIGNINGS

A signing ceremony was held in December for Worcester Prep senior student-athletes Ben McGovern (George Washington University, soccer), Emma Zajdel (Washington College, golf) and Mike DePalma (Dickinson College, golf). Above left, the students are seated with their parents around them. Back, from left, are Drs. Scott and Lauren McGovern, Kristen and Edwin Zajdel and Drs. Michael and Errin DePalma. Above right, pictured with the student-athletes are, standing, WPS Head of Upper School Carol Evans, Director of College Counseling Vickie Garner, Physical Education teacher and Varsity Boys’ Assistant Soccer Coach J.P. McIntyre, Head of Middle School and Varsity Boys’ Head Soccer Coach Jake Perry, Assistant Hea d of School/Athletics Director Michael Grosso, Middle and Upper School teacher Hunter Wells, Middle and Upper School teacher Peyton Shockley, Athletic Trainer Drew Oxenrieder, and Head of School Dr. John McDonald.

BLUSTERY RIDE

A man rides his bike Dec. 4 on a cold and quiet Boardwalk morning.

FOOTBALL PLAYERS SIGN

Three Decatur football seniors confirmed their choices in December to play in college. Pictured, from left, are offensive coordinator Russell Croteau, Trybe Wise (Georgetown University), Davin Chandler (Vanderbilt University), and Ethan Bradshaw (Army) and Head Coach Jake Coleman.

AGH PARTNERING WITH TIDALHEALTH?

Atlantic General Hospital and TidalHealth announced Dec. 12 their plans to combine their organizations. Pictured: AGH president and CEO Don Owrey (left) and TidalHealth president and CEO Steven Leonard sign their nonbinding letter of intent. The merger, planned for spring 205, is still pending regulatory review.

COUNTY LOOKS TO BLOCK WIND FARM

Worcester County’s elected officials may rely on eminent domain as a last resort to acquire two West Ocean City commercial seafood wholesalers, for the express purpose of preventing a wind farm developer from getting its hands on the properties. “If US Wind gets the property, commercial fishing goes away. If we own it, we're not going to sell it to anybody,” said Weston Young, Worcester County’s Chief Administrative Officer. After the commissioners approved a resolution Dec. 17 to engage in the sale process, Young said the county is now reaching out to the owners, starting title and appraisal work, and then launching negotiations on a sales price. He declined to say how much the county might be willing to spend, or where the money would come from, because it’s still too early to say.

HARDWIRE EVENT

Senator Mary Beth Carozza presented five surviving police officers with state commendations during a Dec. 10 ceremony at the Pocomoke City headquarters of armor manufacture Hardwire LLC. The officers spoke at the event about how Hardwire’s armor saved their lives.

SITE PLAN EXTENDED

Resort planners in December extended a site plan for a proposed oceanfront hotel, formerly known as the Margaritaville project. On Dec. 17, Hugh Cropper, the attorney representing the developer of a 230-room oceanfront hotel between 13th and 14th streets, came before the Ocean City Planning Commission to seek an extension of the project’s site plan, set to expire in March of 2025. He noted the extension would give his client time as a legal challenge proceeds in the Appellate Court of Maryland. Demolition of the former Phillips Beach Plaza hotel has begin in Ocean City.

SANTA CON VISITORS

CHRISTMAS DRINKS

Tunilo,

OCPD MURDER PROBE

The Ocean City Police Department’s investigation of a fatal pedestrian collision shortly before 5 p.m. Dec, 16 resulted in the arrest of James John Johnson, 57, of Ocean City, on firstdegree murder, second-degree murder, first-degree assault, second-degree assault and possession of a controlled dangerous substance (cocaine). According to the statement of probable cause, a public document reviewed by this newspaper, Johnson intentionally ran over a 59-year-old man in the 92th Street parking lot after he “gestured” at Johnson. According to the court document, a witness told police she saw the pedestrian extend his middle finger to Johnson after he was nearly struck by the southbound motorist on Coastal Highway. Police said officers were called to the strip mall parking lot between 92nd and 94th streets for a report of a serious motor vehicle collision involving a pedestrian. Lifesaving efforts were initiated by Ocean City Emergency Medical Services (EMS) before the victim, James Callahan, according to court records, was taken to Atlantic General Hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries, police said.

HOLIDAY SPIRIT ON DISPLAY

HOLIDAY ATTIRE

group

MRS. CLAUSES FOR SANTA CON

Kaylnn Braughler, Joanne Palluzzi, Shelly Weimer, Karen

Derek and Cahell Fisher from southern Maryland visited the 28th Street Pit & Pub on Dec. 14 for SantaCon in Ocean City.

Cameron

Kierstin Durfee, Justin Durfee, Austin Wolf visited the 28th Street Pit & Pub from Scranton, Pa., for SantaCon in Ocean City on Dec. 14.

Kim Athey, Rodney Snyder as Santa himself, and Dawn Snyder visited the 28th Street Pit & Pub Dec. 14 for SantaCon in Ocean City.

A fun-loving

joined the SantaCon festivities Dec. 14 at Buxy’s Salty Dog.

Callihan, and Kelsee Callihan visited Mother’s Cantina on Dec. 14 for SantaCon in Ocean City.

Sports & Recreation

YEAR IN PHOTOS

STATE CHAMPIONS, AGAIN

Stephen Decatur senior Peyton Travers, left, shows his emotions after the Seahawks captured back-to-back state titles on Dec. 7. Middle, quarterback Johnny Hobgood rushed for 17 yards on the game and passed for 233 yards to lead Decatur to the win. Above right, senior Zakhari Baker caught the game-winning touchdown from quarterback Johnny Hobgood with 1:51 remaining on the clock.

DECATUR FALLS SHORT IN CONFERENCE CHAMPIONSHIP

After both teams won their respective Bayside South regular season crowns, the boys and girls Stephen Decatur lacrosse teams were looking to secure Bayside Conference titles in May at Kent Island. The girls team, pictured on senior night, lost a heartbreaker, 7-6, squandering a two-goal lead with three minutes left to Queen Anne’s, which won its fourth straight Bayside title. Defending state 2A champion Kent Island avenged an earlier loss to the Decatur boys team, crushing the Seahawks 20-14. The Bucs rolled Decatur, jumping out to an early 9-1 lead at one point in the first half. Both Decatur teams secured byes in the state 2A playoffs and lost in the state tourney. The girls team lost in the regional semifinals.

TENNIS CHAMPS

HISTORIC SEASON FOR FIELD HOCKEY

This fall was a history making season for the Stephen Decatur field hockey team, despite losing in the 2A East Region II finals in October to Easton, 2-1. After losing in the Bayside Championship to familiar nemesis Queen Anne’s, 3-0, Decatur rebounded to win the 2A East Region II Semifinal on its home field in Berlin. The 4-0 victory was the team’s eighth shutout game of the season. The Seahawks moved on to the 2A East Region II final but lost a tight contest, Easton 2-1.

ESIAC WINNER

While the girls fell short in their bid at home, Worcester Prep’s boys tennis team captured another ESIAC championship in May. Above left, Aleksey Klimins serves an ace during his singles match. Above right, James Haley follows through on a return during his doubles match.

Worcester Prep’s varsity soccer team is pictured after winning the ESIAC Championship over Delmarva Christian in October. The Mallards beat the Royals three times during the season on the way to an undefeated conference record. It marked the team’s ninth straight conference crown.

DECATUR GOLF FINISHES 6TH IN STATE

Stephen Decatur’s varsity golf team recently finished another stellar fall season, winning its fourth consecutive Bayside Conference Championship after an undefeated 11-0 regular season. In the Class 1A/2A State Championship, the team, coached by Dan Stearman, finished sixth. Senior Clay McCabe was named the Bayside South Player of the Year with a nine-hole season scoring average of 37.7, McCabe finished tied for the 10th in the state championship. McCabe and Sam Boger were each named to the first team of the Bayside All Conference team. Recognized on the conference second team were Brady Cunnane and Jasper Davis. Above left, from left, are varsity team members Lucas Kohut, Brody Kendall, Colin Dang, Cunnane, McCabe (captain), Boger (captain), Davis, Lewis Takacs and Team Manager Frankie Buxbaum.

UNIFIED TENNIS CHAMPS

Members of Stephen Decatur’s Unified Tennis team are pictured with their coaches celebrating their state championship in November in College Park. The win represented the school’s first championship in Unified Tennis. Three weeks earlier, Decatur placed two teams in the top two spots of regionals with the top team advancing to represent the school at states.

UNDEFEATED SEASON FOR WPS

Worcester Prep’s golf team capped off an undefeated 8-0 season this week with a fifth consecutive ESIAC Championship at home course Glen Riddle. The team rolled through much of the conference foes behind dominant performances and low scores. Senior Night festivities were held in October. Senior team members recognized included Frank Miller, Lucas Nicastro, Mike DePalma, Owen West, Aleksey Klimins, Will Wells and Briar Parsons. DePalma was named ESIAC Player of the Year. Named to the All-Conference Team were Kain Crossett, Isha Garg, Aleksey Klimins, Karrigan Russell-Wood and Owen West. Dawson Davis was honorable mention all conference.

CHEER TEAM PLACES 4TH IN STATES

Stephen Decatur’s varsity cheer team advanced to the state competition in November in the 2A division for the Maryland Public School State Cheerleading Association (MPSSCA). In just the team’s third year of competition in the MPSSCA, the team placed second at two invitationals earlier in the season to qualify for the 2A East Regionals. The team then advanced to states in the 2A division. At states, the team placed fourth out of the 32 teams in the 2A division and were just six-tenths away from third place. Pictured, front from left, are Lydia Navarro, Megan Brown, Sadie Glick, Gabby Haley, Olivia Wooden, Alivia James and Amanda Marotta; and, back, Callie Haley, Marley Strickler, Arden Tackas, Dylan Ward, Bella Fernley, Jules Wooden, Ellie Rankin, Brynn Robins and Jayda Taylor. The team is coached by Courtney Nunn.

WPS WINS LAX CHAMPIONSHIP

Worcester Prep defended its home turf last last May against Gunston winning the ESIAC championship. The team is pictured with the hardware.

WMO WINNER

The second day of the 2024 White Marlin Open in August saw the top two finishers in the white marlin and blue marlin divisions weighed in. The tourney’s top prize money winner was team Waste Knot with a 77.5 pound white marlin worth $3.7 million.