Silver Spring, Maryland: Memorial Bust To the Homeless Mayor

Norman Lane, a homeless man, became known as the "Mayor of Silver Spring." His favorite slogan is inscribed on the base of his bronze bust: "Don't Worry About It."

Mayor Lane Memorial Alleyway is a pedestrian walkway centered on a bust of the late Norman Lane, who was homeless and frequented the area, became known as the "Mayor of Silver Spring." His favorite slogan is inscribed on the pedestal: "Don't Worry About It."

The alley, which runs between a number of businesses and restaurants on Georgia Avenue, was named after Mayor Lane as well.

Visitors should commemorate Mayor Lane by eating at the nearby Quarry House Tavern, where the Mayor frequently drank. A former speakeasy, it is located underground, at the corner of Georgia Ave. and Bonifant St. Everything on the menu comes with tater tots.

For those preferring classier fare, the newly opened Piratz Tavern across the street offers a pirate theme, and is a popular DC-area gathering place for pirate reenactors. One of the bartenders lost an eye in a sword fight and was forced to wear a patch; if you see someone firing a musket on the tiki-festooned patio, don't be alarmed - they're squibs.

Developers concerned with "perceptions of safety" want to partially close the alleyway and turn it into a loading dock for name-brand retail shops. The memorial walkway with bust still remains.