March 22, 2021
Thank you to Bob McKinley for sharing this picture of the US Coast Guard conducting training near the Ocean Pines Marina.

Have a photo that you'd like to share with your neighbors? Email info@oceanpines.org.
COVID-19 Updates
For the latest information from the Ocean Pines Association regarding Coronavirus (COVID-19), visit
Recent News
Special Board meeting, March 26
The Ocean Pines Board has scheduled a special meeting on Friday, March 26 at 11 a.m. in the East Room of the Ocean Pines Community Center. Read more.
Highlights from March 20 OPA Board meeting
Video for the March 20 Ocean Pines Association Board meeting is now available online. The meeting was held virtually using Microsoft Teams. Read more.
March 20 Board meeting briefs
The Ocean Pines Board discussed several items during a public meeting on Saturday, including short term rentals, the availability of investigation reports, a handicapped playground and Board self-evaluation. Read more.
Officials break ground on major drainage improvement project in Ocean Pines
Worcester County, Ocean Pines and other stakeholders on Wednesday officially broke ground on the Bainbridge Pond project designed to reduce flooding in an area considered among the worst in the community in terms of drainage. Read more.
Drainage improvement project starts, some road closures will occur
Ocean Pines started work on the Bainbridge Pond drainage improvement project last week, and some road closures will be necessary because of the construction. Read more.
Public hearing scheduled
The Ocean Pines Board has scheduled a public hearing on March 27 at 9 a.m. in the community center, on a proposal submitted in a petition for a referendum. Read more.
Assessments due May 1
The Ocean Pines Association recently mailed assessments with an incorrect due date of March 31, 2021. The correct due date is May 1, 2021. The Association will not charge any late fees prior to that date. Read more.
Platform Tennis Club to honor Freeman with memorial tournament, fundraiser
The Ocean Pines Platform Tennis Club will host its third annual benefit tournament on April 24, at the Ocean Pines Racquet Center. This year, the club has dedicated the tournament to Jim Freeman, an active platform tennis member who passed away on March 15 after a battle with cancer. Read more.
Yacht Club ballroom gets touchup, courtesy of Public Works team
Ocean Pines Public Works recently finished several renovations at the Yacht Club, designed to get the ballroom ready for upcoming weddings and special events. Read more.
High Sheriff Trail road closure March 22-26
Drainage improvements on High Sheriff Trail in Ocean Pines will require a temporary road closure, starting on March 22. Public Works Director Eddie Wells said his department would replace failing culvert pipes with larger ones, if nearby utilities allow for it. Read more.
Comcast expands service to more than 8,000 homes in Ocean Pines
Comcast today announced it has completed construction in Ocean Pines – expanding the company’s advanced fiber-optic network to 8,352 homes. Read more.
Comcast Update: March 22
Comcast has completed its construction in Ocean Pines and is moving to the restoration process beginning March 22. Read more.
Ocean Pines now hiring
The Ocean Pines Association is now seeking front desk personnel, an IT manager, lifeguards and swim instructors. Read more.
Worcester County economic future hinges on broadband infrastructure
Worcester County Commissioner Chip Bertino has provided a commentary about the importance of having in place broadband accessibility for all Worcester County residents. Read more.
MD 90 to close March 22-25
The Maryland State Highway Administration has announced that it will close MD 90 for cleaning and repairs during the overnight hours of March 22-25. Read more.
Volunteers needed for historic event honoring veterans
Volunteers are needed to guide visitors through The Wall That Heals exhibit. The three-quarter scale replica of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, D.C., will be hosted in Ocean Pines April 22 to April 25 at 1 p.m. Read more.
Worcester Health expands COVID-19 vaccinations to Phase 2
The Worcester County Health Department, based on direction from the State of Maryland, is expanding COVID-19 vaccination coverage to include all adults age 60 years old and older. Read more.
Governor Hogan announces vaccine eligibility timeline for all Marylanders
Governor Larry Hogan last week announced that, based on the state’s accelerating vaccination rate and an anticipated increase in supply from the federal government, the State of Maryland will enter Phase 2 of its vaccine distribution plan early this week. Read more.
Board and Administration

Special Board Meeting
Friday, March 26 at 11 a.m.
Ocean Pines Community Center East Room

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Public Hearing - Referendum Petition
Saturday, March 27 at 9 a.m.
Ocean Pines Community Center

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Town Hall Meeting - Short Term Rentals
Saturday, April 17 (Time TBD)

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Advisory Committee Members Needed
The Communications, Aquatics, Strategic Planning, By-Laws and Resolutions, and Marine Activities advisory committees are seeking new members. If you are interested in participating in any of these committees, please email Michelle Bennett at mbennett@oceanpines.org.
Upcoming Events
fun! Camp Ocean Pines
Registration packets for Camp Ocean Pines are now available through the Recreation and Parks Department. Registration for Ocean Pines residents will be accepted beginning March 22, registration for the public will be accepted beginning March 29. Read more.
register! Total Body Fitness
This full-body workout includes kickboxing, dance and Tabata, a form of interval training. High-energy and super fun! New sessions will be held on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays from 10-10:45 a.m. beginning March 22 and Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9-9:45 a.m. starting March 23 at the Sports Core Pool. Call 410-641-5255 to register. Read more.
yoga_instructor_help.jpg
drop in! Hatha Yoga
Hatha yoga is the most widely practiced form of yoga in America and uses postures, breathing techniques and meditation. Classes are held on Mondays through March 29 from 11 a.m.- noon at the Community Center. $13 drop-in fee per class. Call 410-641-7052 for info. Read more.
drop in! AM & PM Zumba
Try this low-impact, high-energy aerobic exercise program - right in Ocean Pines! Classes are held at the Community Center on Tuesdays from 8:30-9:15 a.m. and Wednesdays from 4:30-5:15 p.m. $6 per class, or sign up for an entire session - new sessions begin March 30 & 31. Call 410-641-7052 for info. Read more.
play! Adult Co-Ed Softball
This fun adult league returns to Ocean Pines on Wednesday evenings from April 7-May 26. Register your team now! Call 410-641-7052 for info. Read more.
learn! American Red Cross Lifeguard Certification
Registration is now underway for Ocean Pines Aquatics' American Red Cross Lifeguard Certification class April 16, 17, 18, and 25. Participants must be 15 years of age by completion of the last class. Discounts for Ocean Pines swim members and residents! Read more.
free! Timeless Tennis Clinics
Timeless Tennis offers everything you love about tennis on smaller, screened platform tennis courts. Give it a try at free clinics offered April 8 and 15 at 6:30 p.m. and April 9 and 16 at 1 p.m. at the Ocean Pines Racquet Center. Read more.
shop! Spring Flea Market
The Recreation and Parks Department will host its Spring Outdoor Flea Market on Saturday, April 17 from 8 a.m.-noon in White Horse Park. Vendor spaces are available! Call 410-641-7052 for more info. Read more.
register! Aqua Cross Training
This total-body workout combines cardio fitness with strength toning using our aqua bikes and trampolines. Class meets on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 7-7:45 a.m. at the Sports Core Pool. Register now for the new session beginning April 20! Read more.
register! Pool Operator Re-Certification Class
Ocean Pines Aquatics will offer a Pool Operator Re-Certification Class on Wednesday, May 5 from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. at the Community Center. Call 410-641-5255 to register or for more information. Read more.
register! 2021 Summer Classic Pickleball Tournament
Ocean Pines Pickleball will host its 2021 Summer Classic tournament on June 12 (men's and women's doubles) and June 13 (mixed doubles) at the Ocean Pines Racquet Center for ages 16+. Multiple skills and age brackets. Read more.
new! Pickleball Clinics
Join Instructor Jacob Cook (USPTA/PPR) to learn proper strokes and strategies. Separate clinics for beginners and intermediate players will be held on Saturdays at the Community Center. $15 per session. Spaces are limited! Call 410-641-7052 to register. Read more.
free! Medicare Basics Seminar
Learn about the health insurance program facilitated by the federal government at this free seminar on Tuesday, March 23 from 3-4:30 p.m. at the Community Center. Presented by Carrie Dupuie with Raymond James Financial Services. Call 410-641-7052 to reserve your spot.
free! Homebuyers Seminar
Learn how to buy your dream home at this free seminar on Thursday, April 8 at 7 p.m. or Saturday, April 10 at 10 a.m. at the Community Center. Presented by Engel & Volkers Ocean City and First Choice Lending of NJ Inc. Call Jessica Gresczyk at 717-855-4566 or 410-520-4555, or email jessica.gresczyk@evrealestate.com by April 5 to reserve a spot. Read more.
See what else is happening in Ocean Pines!

Click the links to learn more.
Dine in Ocean Pines
Ocean Pines Yacht Club

Open
Thu-Sun at 11 a.m.

LAST DAY
Friday, March 26 Starting at 4 p.m.
1/2-Price Dinner Entrees

The Clubhouse Bar and Grille

Open
8 a.m.-5 p.m.

Indoor & Outdoor Dining



Yacht Club Lunch Specials 11 a.m.-4 p.m.
through April 25
Live Music at the Yacht Club
March 26, 5-8 p.m. | Zander Jett
March 27, 5-8 p.m. | Jack Bannon
Community & Organization News
Upcoming Events/Meetings
Pine'eer Artisan Gift Shop Open, Accepting New Crafters
The Pine'eer Artisan Gift Shop features handmade creations from local crafters and artisans, including fun and functional home items such as quilted table runners and placemats, cork trivets, hand-painted porcelain, embroidered towels, glass cheese trays and tea lights, stained glass night lights, lit bar bottles, crocheted crab coasters, hand-thrown pottery, unique crocheted afghans, decorative pillows and much more. The gift shop is open Saturdays 9 a.m.-3 p.m. and Sundays 10 a.m.- 3 p.m. Masks are required, and both cash and credit card payments are currently accepted. The gift shop is now accepting new crafter applications in various areas. For more information, contact Diane Denk at dianedenk@comcast.net or Kimberly Perrone at perrone4499@gmail.com. The shop is located in White Horse Park next to the Ocean Pines Administration Building.

Kiwanis Mask Fundraiser
The Kiwanis Club of Ocean Pines is selling handcrafted COVID-19 masks for $10 each or $25 for three as a fundraiser to support vital community projects. There are 4 mask sizes - adult (large), medium (for women and teenagers), child (7-12 years old) and small child (3-6 years old). The masks are made in Maryland with fabric and supplies from other small businesses in our community and come with an adjustable elastic band. There are a variety of themes to choose from including sports teams (Ravens, Steelers, Capitals, Orioles), music groups, and nautical and animal motifs. Contact Steve Cohen at 301-667-3099 or stevecohenjd@gmail.com for purchase information.

Shepherd's Nook & Flea Market Open
The Shepherd's Nook and Flea Market at the Community Church at Ocean Pines and Sarah's Pantry are open. All facilities require that masks be worn inside. The Nook will be restricted to 8 customers entering at a time and the flea market will be limited to 5 customers at a time. The direct phone number for the Nook and Sarah's Pantry is 410-641-8392. Hours of operation are Wednesday through Saturday, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Ocean Pines Anglers Club Asking for Catch Data
Members of the Ocean Pines Anglers Club are asking local anglers to log and submit their catch data, to help improve statistics that govern recreational fishing. To view the form, visit https://fishinoc.com/fish-data.

Monthly: Women's Club of Ocean Pines Meeting / 10-11 a.m.
The Women's Club membership year began in September and is ongoing. Dues are $10 per year. For memberships, contact Joyce Piatti at 410-302-0559 or japiatti@aol.com, or mail dues to her at 12 Chatham Court, Ocean Pines, MD 21811. For more information about the Women's Club, contact President Karin Benton at 610-730-6706 or karinhessbenton@gmail.com.

Saturdays: Optimist Raffle Tickets at the Ocean Pines Farmers & Artisans Market / 8 a.m.-1 p.m.
The Ocean City Berlin Optimist Club will be selling raffle tickets due to the cancellation of this year's Boat Show. First prize is a 19' Sweetwater Pontoon 50hp Suzuki, second prize is a 16' aluminum Starcraft 25hp Mercury and trailer, third prize is a 12' Yamaha jet ski and E-Z jet ski dock, fourth prize is a weekly condo rental during the White Marlin Open plus $1,000 cash and fifth prize is a $1,000 canvas work gift certificate. Tickets are $10 for one, $25 for three and $50 for ten. The drawing will be held May 20. Tickets may also be purchased by contacting Charlie Dorman at 443-880-3602, Lew Frey at 443-365-9689 or freylrf0713@gmail.com, Wayne Cott at 410-289-8271 or Bill Brown at 561-504-5281.

Sundays: Breakfast with the Knights of Columbus / 8:30-11:30 a.m.
Located at 9901 Coastal Highway behind St. Luke's Church. All you can eat. Masks required when walking around. Call 410-524-7994 for more information.

April 1, May 6: Women's Club of Ocean Pines "Cash for Winners" Raffle
Proceeds benefit scholarships and community donations. Only 100 tickets to be sold; 10 chances to win. A $50 cash first prize and $25 cash second prize drawing will he held on April 1. Winning tickets will also be put back for the the next drawing on May 6, which will consist of a $200 cash grand prize and $100 cash second prize. Tickets are $25 each and may be purchased by contacting Irene Daly at 410-790-2192 or ildteach@gmail.com, or Diane McGraw at 410-707-6521 at mcgrawdb@mchsi.com.

April 6-8 (In Person): Safe Boating Class / 6-9 p.m.
The United States Coast Guard Auxiliary will teach the state-mandated Recreational Safe Boating Course at the Ocean Pines Library. The class and certificate are required for boat operators born after July 1, 1972. The class will also be offered June 1-3, July 12-14, and Sept. 7-9. Two one-day classes will be offered on May 8 and Aug. 7 from 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. In-person class instruction will be conducted in accordance with prevailing COVID-19 social distancing guidelines. If classes cannot be held in person, they will be offered online. Additional online classes will be offered Oct. 5-7 and Nov. 2-4. The cost for the course is $20, which includes all course materials. To register or for questions, contact Barry Cohen at 410-935-4807 or cgauxoc@gmail.com.

April 8: Ocean Pines Garden Club Arbor Day Celebration / 10:30 a.m.
The Ocean Pines Garden Club's Arbor Day "Celebration of Life" event will be held on Thursday, April 8 at 10:30 a.m. at Pintail Park in Ocean Pines. During the event, a Yoshino Cherry tree will be planted in memory of friends and neighbors who have passed away in 2019 and 2020. The ceremony will include the Delmarva Chorus, a bagpiper, proclamations by Worcester County and the Ocean Pines Association, as well as recognition of those who have passed. There will be no luncheon this year. A mask and social distancing will be required. The ceremony is open to all.

April 16: Ocean Pines Garden Club Registration Deadline for May Day Community Celebration
Please join the Ocean Pines Garden Club for its third annual May Day Community Celebration on May 1, rain or shine. Show your community support by creating a beautiful basket of fresh flowers and display it in a way that it is visible from the street. The only rule is the basket must contain fresh flowers and greens. Draw inspiration from spring, warm weather and the possibility of being able to move more freely in our world in the very near future. Place a Ziplock bag near your creation that contains 5 copies of your name, address and the inspiration for your creation for the judges.
Baskets must be in place before 9:30 a.m. Judges will visit your display between 9:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. Baskets will be judged on Condition, Distinction, Originality, Color Harmony and Design Balance and Proportion. Around 1:00 p.m., certificates and ribbons will be delivered. All participants will receive certificates of appreciation and winners will receive ribbons. To enter a basket, email your name and address to Anita Roberts at anitain38op@gmail.com before April 16.