By Tara Fischer Staff Writer The Ocean Pines Recreation and Parks Department is rolling out a variety of activities this winter into spring, offering residents opportunities to stay active, socialize, and enjoy family-friendly entertainment. One of the highlights is the Men’s 4-on-4 Basketball League, which kicks off on March 19. Games will be held on… Read more »
News
Tree City USA designation a possibility for Town of Berlin
By Tara Fischer Staff Writer During a meeting last month, the Berlin Parks Commission discussed pursuing Tree City USA recognition, a program that encourages communities to prioritize planting and caring for trees. The discussion followed a presentation by Greg Eastman of the Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) Forest Service. During the meeting, Eastman outlined… Read more »
At 107, he really has seen it all
WWII veteran wounded 82 years ago at Anzio soldiers on in Ocean Pines By Tara Fischer Staff Writer Later this month, Ocean Pines resident, World War II veteran and Purple Heart recipient John Edward Romm Jr. will do something only a very few people have done: celebrate his 107th birthday. Romm, now closing in on… Read more »
OPA’s public works building to host fire trucks for now
By Tara Fischer Staff Writer All equipment from the Ocean Pines Volunteer Fire Department’s South Station has been relocated to the community’s Public Works building as construction on the new facility nears. A press release issued by the Ocean Pines Association last week indicated that firefighting devices stored in the soon-to-be-replaced firehouse at 911 Ocean… Read more »
Accused coach, teacher cleared of all charges
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 »
Berlin seeks resident input on Route 113 reconnection efforts
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 »
Joann Katherine (Hesse) Wengert
Joann Katherine (Hesse) Wengert Ocean Pines Joann Wengert passed away on January 17, 2026, at the age of 77. Born on Oct. 25, 1948, She was the compassionate and caring wife of George “Tom” Wengert for 58 years; a loving mother to two sons, Chris Wengert and Josh Wengert (Staicia); an affectionate grandmother to Morgan,… Read more »
Peggy A. Janis
Peggy A. Janis Berlin Peggy Ann (Herzog) Janis passed away on Friday, January 23, 2026 in Annapolis, Maryland, with her daughter, Jennifer, by her side. She was eighty-three years old. Peggy embodied love and gentleness in everything she touched and built a life of courageous devotion. Her five kids learned from her steady hands and… Read more »
Deborah Wooten
Deborah Wooten Bishopville It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Deborah Carl Wooten, of Bishopville, who departed life on January 16, 2026, at the age of 77. Born February 25, 1948, in Takoma Park, she was the middle child of seven siblings and the beloved daughter of the late Howard Frederick… Read more »
02/05/2026 Bayside Editorial: At age 107, he’s seen it all and then some
At age 107, he’s seen it all and then some The question isn’t what you would give a 107-year-old person for his birthday, but what someone of that age might be able to give you. And the answer is: Perspective. It’s impossible to imagine the things Ocean Pines resident John Edward Romm Jr. has seen… Read more »