Berlin, Ocean Pines News Worcester County Bayside Gazette
By Brian Shane Staff Writer Bryon Johnson, a local high school basketball coach accused of sexual offenses against a minor, has been acquitted of all charges. Investigators uncovered “reliable digital forensic evidence” that contradicted earlier accusations leaving prosectors with insufficient proof to proceed with criminal charges, according to Worcester County State’s Attorney Kristin Heiser. “Consistent… Read more »
By Tara Fischer Staff Writer The Town of Berlin is inviting residents to public input sessions to gather feedback on a long-discussed project to improve safety and connectivity along U.S. Route 113. Berlin will begin planning efforts for a potential bike and pedestrian bridge over Route 113. The goal of the project is to explore… Read more »
Glass cremation keepsake wins grant to help company expand with new enterprise By Tara Fischer Staff Writer A new branch of Berlin-based business Jeffrey Auxer Designs will continue to provide memorial glass in remembrance of pets and loved ones to its customers, and, as the winner of a $35,000 competition, advance the brand. About two… Read more »
By Tara Fischer Staff Writer Stephen Decatur High School’s head basketball coach Bryon Johnson was taken into custody last week on charges related to an alleged sexual assault of a minor. Johnson, known in the community as BJ, was arrested on Thursday, Jan. 8 on charges including a felony sex offense in the 3rd degree… Read more »
By Tara Fischer Staff Writer Nearly every establishment in Berlin will welcome patrons with delicious eats and great deals during the town’s tenth annual Restaurant Week. This year’s multiday event will run from Jan. 19 to Jan. 26. Starting this Monday, the town’s eateries will curate reimagined menus and discounts—with the intention of not breaking… Read more »
New legislation requires towns to allow accessory dwellings By Tara Fischer Staff Writer The Berlin mayor and Town Council began early discussions this week on how the town will comply with a new state mandate requiring local governments to allow accessory dwelling units (ADUs), noting that months of work and public comment are ahead. Mayor… Read more »
By Tara Fischer Staff Writer Although the town’s New Year’s Eve ball drop drew a strong turnout, the mayor and Town Council on Monday wondered if a later start time or additional activities could enhance the event and encourage visitors to stay downtown longer. Councilmember Steve Green (the executive editor of this paper), noted that… Read more »
By Tara Fischer Staff Writer The Maryland State Firefighters’ Association (MSFA) is relocating its annual parade from Ocean City to downtown Berlin this summer, citing a consistent decline in participation over the past few years. With Councilmember Shaneka Nichols and Vice President Dean Burrell absent, the Berlin Council unanimously approved a special event request this… Read more »
By Tara Fischer Staff Writer For area residents and visitors who want to ring in 2026 a few hours early, the Town of Berlin is once again hosting its New Year’s Eve ball drop at 6 p.m. on Dec. 31. On New Year’s Eve, Berlin will continue its tradition of dropping a disco ball in… Read more »
By Tara Fischer Staff Writer After months of preparation and securing more than $125,000 in donations, the Stephen Decatur High School marching band has returned from a successful trip to Hawaii, where they performed at the Pearl Harbor Memorial Parade in Honolulu on Dec. 7. On Thursday, Dec. 4, all 37 members of the high… Read more »