Commissioners hurt school support staff Editor, The Worcester County Education Support Professionals Association (WCESPA) is deeply disappointed that the Worcester County Commissioners failed to fully fund the Board of Education’s budget request. This decision has direct consequences—not just for teachers, but for the lowest-paid employees in our schools: the support staff. When funding falls short,… Read more »
News
Jack Colcord
Jack Colcord Berlin John “Jack” Colcord, age 71, passed away on Monday, June 2, 2025, in Berlin. Born in New Haven, Connecticut, he was the son of the late Carl and Ruth (Morris) Colcord. Jack was a beloved husband, devoted father, and dear friend to many. His greatest roles in life were those of husband… Read more »
Karen Mary Pippin
Karen Mary Pippin Berlin Karen Mary Pippin, age 68 passed away unexpectedly Sunday, June 1, 2025 at her home. Born in New York, she was the daughter of the late Andrew Askland and Mary (Daly) Askland. Karen was the wife of the late Herbert Lanis Pippin. Karen was a loving wife, mother, grandmother and friend…. Read more »
06/12/2025 Bayside Editorial: Through heroism, late vet offers perspective
Through heroism, late vet offers perspective Talk about a study in contrasts! All one has to do is look at what’s happening in the country today — political name-calling, bitter divisiveness and extreme positions staked out by the parties involved — and then consider the single-minded selflessness of Lt. George Kerchner at Normandy on June… Read more »
Racquet center sport memberships record sharp decline
By Tara Fischer Staff Writer Racquet center sport membership is down 30% in Ocean Pines, per a review of the homeowner association’s unaudited April financials conducted by the community’s budget and finance committee last week. The committee observed the 30% decrease, which was noted as a significant decline compared to an increase in memberships among… Read more »
OPA early budget review confirms surplus
By Tara Fischer Staff Writer The Ocean Pines Association is operating at a positive variance of around $70,000 with a revenue surplus, according to the community’s unaudited April finances. OPA’s Budget and Finance Committee met last week to review April’s finances. During the evaluation of the unaudited numbers, it was understood that the association is… Read more »
Ballot set for OP board election; Four candidates on ballot in this summer’s contest for three director seats
By Tara Fischer Staff Writer The Ocean Pines Association’s Board of Directors election approaches with four candidates officially registered to run for the governing group’s three open seats. The community’s election committee conducted a drawing last week to determine ballot order and forum seating. OPA’s Board of Directors is a seven-person team tasked with policy… Read more »
Berlin to share cost of traffic study with developer
By Tara Fischer Staff Writer Last week, the Berlin Town Council approved a motion to share the cost of a traffic study on Old Ocean City Boulevard with Coastal Ventures Properties (CVP) for $14,250 as it pertains to the site’s upcoming development. Per the approval, the town will contribute half of the cost of a… Read more »
Pollinator garden tour planned for Saturday; Lower Shore Land Trust’s annual event will feature nine Berlin properties
By Tara Fischer Staff Writer This week, Berlin residents and visitors will have the opportunity to explore the town’s private pollinator gardens, talk to hosts, and learn about how to create spaces that attract the creatures necessary to ensure a healthy ecosystem. The Lower Shore Land Trust, an environmental group covering Worcester, Wicomico, and Somerset… Read more »
Council holds tax rate, looks past concerns; Public hearing on budget Monday
By Tara Fischer Staff Writer The Berlin Mayor and Council presented the municipality’s proposed fiscal year 2026 budget last week, revealing a stagnant property tax rate and additional interest income. The Town of Berlin’s Mayor and Council presented the municipality’s proposed fiscal year 2026 budget on Tuesday, May 27. The document includes a balanced general… Read more »