Invitation to join party for primary Editor, Hey, Independent, Libertarian and Unaffiliated voters. It’s unfair that you have no voice in our gubernatorial election on Tuesday June 23, 2026. You are locked out — 22% of Marylanders, one million people, have no affiliation with either the Republican or Democrat party. As the polarization of both… Read more »
News
Joanne Breedlove
Joanne Breedlove Berlin Joanne Isabel Miller Breedlove, (age 96) of Berlin and formerly of Takoma Park, died Monday, Feb. 2, 2026. Born in Chicago, Ill., Aug. 4, 1929, she was the daughter of Josephine H. Miller and Elmer Frederick Miller. She grew up in Zionsville, Ind., where she graduated high school in 1947 and then… Read more »
02/12/2026 Bayside Editorial: Ocean City stumbles in Berlin presentation
Ocean City stumbles in Berlin presentation No one can blame the residents of Flower Street, the Berlin mayor and Town Council, or even some individuals connected to the two Stephen Decatur schools on Seahawk Road for opposing Ocean City’s plan to build a sports complex on the eastern edge of town. Because the proposed site… Read more »
Ocean Pines plans events over winter
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 »
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 »