Downtown Ocean City has something for everyone
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Downtown, Boardwalk are the places to be for food, shopping, special events o visit to Ocean City is complete without spending time on our fabulous Boardwalk and in the downtown area. Looking for a delicious meal? If it’s breakfast, lunch, dinner or just a treat, downtown Ocean City has a restaurant to meet your needs. Whether you’re looking for a quick bite or a leisurely meal, fine dining or budget friendly fare, downtown has it all. Enjoy some Boardwalk eats while
watching the waves roll in. Explore a block or two off the boards or go bayside and you’ll find some local favorites. Looking for fun? Downtown OC has you covered! Amusement parks, museums, arcades, bike or Segway rentals are sure to provide hours of fun. Water sports abound in downtown — fishing, watercraft rentals, parasailing, sightseeing, or just sitting by the dock of the bay. If you’re looking for public parks, downtown Ocean City offers Sunset Park, Somerset Plaza and the inlet area, all of which host many special
events throughout the year. The downtown recreation complex on Third Street includes a ball field, tennis and basketball courts, as well as the Ocean Bowl Skate Park, the oldest public operating skate park in the country. Variety is the name of the game when it comes to shopping in downtown Ocean City. Looking for the perfect souvenir from your OC vacation? Need new surfing gear? Looking to bring your friends and co-workers a sweet treat from your vacation? From high-end jewelry to graphictees, knick-knacks to fine arts, you
can find it all here in downtown Ocean City. Spend some time exploring the Boardwalk shops as well as those off the beaten path. With so much to see and do in downtown Ocean City, why not just stay where you play? Downtown offers a number of hotels and motels that range in style and rate to accommodate a full variety of needs. You can find establishments that offer daily rates to weekly rates — some even offer seasonal rates. Take a vacation from your car, park it and forget about it! On your next trip downtown, take Continued on Page 9
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Ocean City Today/Discover Downtown
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4 Seasons Pizza OC .........................................................................12 Marina Deck Restaurant...................................................................15 9th Street Tap House.......................................................................12 Monkey Doodles Children’s Boutique.............................................5
Atlantic Gold Jewelry........................................................................3 M.R. Ducks Bar & Grille.................................................................16 BackShore Brewing Company.......................................................15 Mr T’s....................................................................................................5 Brass Balls Saloon.............................................................................17 OC Bayside Rentals..........................................................................17
Buddys Crabs & Ribs..........................................................................4 OC Ministries Jesus at the Beach...................................................20 Candy Kitchen....................................................................................13 OC Ministries Son Spot .................................................................22 Caruso’s Pizza....................................................................................16 Ocean City Boardwalk Segway.....................................................20
Chef Riddle Restaurant & Lounge................................................21 The Ocean Princess............................................................................21
Chesapeake Ghost Tours..............................................................14 OC Screams Haunted House...........................................................23 Crab Stop............................................................................................14 Park Place Jewelers...........................................................................7
Doggie Style Canine Cafe...............................................................5 Pickles Pub.............................................................................................8 The Dough Roller.................................................................................10 Purple Moose Saloon........................................................................13
Frog Bar & Grill...................................................................................7 Quiet Storm Surf Shop........................................................................2
The Green House...............................................................................18 Sharkys Paninis & Ice Cream...........................................................16 Grottos Pizza......................................................................................6 Sopranos Pizza..................................................................................13 Inspired Thrift Shop............................................................................18 Sunglass City.................................................................................... 24
Jewel of Ocean................................................................................8 The Kitchen Restaurant................................................................... 22 Jewel of Ocean ..............................................................................19 Treasure Island Country Store........................................................5
Life Saving Station Museum............................................................19 Trimpers Amusements.........................................................................9
Malibus................................................................................................11 Wokenfuss........................................................................................ 23
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July 2017
FAMILY FRIENDLY Start your Day -- Overlooking the Inlet & Bay!
Full Breakfast Menu 8 AM – 11 AM OC’S Best “Build Your Own”Home-made Omelettes
All DAY All Night All the Time At the Inlet Village
$5.00 Orange Crush $2.75 Bud Light Bottles
Brew with a View
$1.75 Natural 806 S. Atlantic Ave. Light Ocean City, MD 21842
$3.00 Froggy Shooters
410-289-FROG Free Parking Food & GREAT
Too!
for Customers at the Frog Bar
Home of the Famous OPEN DAILY Portabella Mushroom & Swiss Burger!
FROGGY HOUR 8 PM – 9 PM Miller Lite $1 Drafts • Bud Lite $1 Drafts $5.00 Pitchers At the Inlet Village 806 S. Atlantic Ave. Ocean City, MD 21842 410-289-FROG Free Parking for Customers at the Frog Bar
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VOTED "BEST SPORTS BAR 2017"
706 Philadelphia Ave 410-289-4891
HAPPY HOUR MON-FRI 3-6 29 DRAFTS ON TAP
Always Rotating Local and National
MOST POOL TABLES IN TOWN HOME OF PASADENA’S LAST OC SHOWS! SPECIALS
MONDAY: 55¢ wings all day/night with purchase of beverage
10pm Karaoke with DJ Jeremey $3 Corona/Corona Lights
TUESDAY: $1.50 Tacos til 3pm with purchase of beverage
10pm Beats by Adam Dutch $2 Presidente, PBR, and Natty Boh Draft
WEDNESDAY: 1/2 price 1/2lb burgers all day/night with purchase of
beverage. 7pm-close Local Pint Night-keep the glass
THURSDAY: 10pm Beats by WAX. $2 domestic bottles $3 grenades $4 Hoop Tea/ Fireball
FRIDAY: Flashback Friday's @ 10pm Beats By Jermey 80s/90s $5 Orange Crushes
SATURDAY: Live on Stage: 7/1: Chris Diller • 7/8: City Painted Green
7/15: Higher Education • 7/22: TBA • 7/29: Bond & Bentley
SUNDAY:11:30am-4pm $5 Bloody Mary's/Mimosas •10-close Late Night Happy Hour Drinks
8TH STREET LIQUORS OPEN DAILY UNTIL 2AM ALL YOUR PARTY/CELEBRATION NEEDS (please drink responsibly)
LIVE ENTERTAINMENT
6/30: Higher Education 7/1: Chris Diller 7/4: Pasadena 7/8: City Painted Green
7/14: Chris Diller 7/15: Higher Education 7/22: TBA 7/29: Bond and Bentley
July 2017
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Somerset Plaza outlines summer entertainment
For its 15th year, a series of free special events will take place on select Sundays at Somerset Plaza on Somerset Street. The plaza is between the Boardwalk and Baltimore Avenue. Somerset Plaza is a semi-pedestrian street that is closed to all vehicular traffic during these special events. Music events start at 3 p.m. The OC Cruzers will display their custom cars during these events. July 16 — Rob Fahey, rock. Aug. 1 — Blake Haley, acoustic/country/rock. Sept. 10 – One Night Stand, classic rock. Sept. 24 — (only OC Cruzers car display).
Discover downtown Continued on Page 9 note of the public art projects as well as the many buildings of historical significance. Plan to attend one of the many special events that are hosted throughout the summer season, and shoulder seasons, as well. For more information, visit www.ocdc.org or call 410-289-7739. Ocean City Development Corporation (OCDC) is a nonprofit organization charged with revitalizing downtown Ocean City.
Somerset Plaza between the Boardwalk and Baltimore Avenue, sees mostly foot traffic, as access by cars is limited. Pictured is an OC Cruzers event.
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Ocean City Today/Discover Downtown
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Ocean City Today/Discover Downtown
Another jewel in downtown: Sunset Park
Sunset Park, located along South Division Street between Philadelphia Avenue and the bay in downtown Ocean City, offers something different for the visitors and residents of Ocean City. Sunset Park has evolved into a great venue for special events of all sizes and varieties. Free music, Shakespeare plays, and other events are on the 2017 schedule. The park sits at the original location of the railroad bridge entering Ocean City from Old Bridge Road in West Ocean City. This railroad bridge was destroyed by the 1933 storm that hit Ocean City. However, the new park is designed with railroad style features, including the design of the restroom building, trellis, and the bricks located on the perimeter of the park are from the original train station once located along S. Philadelphia Avenue. This linear park contains a lighted entertainment stage, restrooms, environmental plaques, nice landscaping and a short pier that provides fantastic views of the bay. Sunset Park is highlighted by a 60-foot-tall tower that is lit at night and can be seen from the Route 50 Bridge as well as other downtown locations.
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SUNSET PARK PARTY NIGHTS 7-9 p.m.
July 6 – Oh Boy (Tribute to Buddy Holly) July 13 – Tranzfusion (Rock). The Vault (103.5 & 106.1 FM) as event sponsor. July 20 – Lauren Glick (Blues, Soul, Rock). July 27 – British Invasion Experience (Beatles Tribute Band) Aug. 3 – Full Circle (Blues, R&B, Rock). Aug. 10 – Blind Wind (Bluegrass, Americana, Rock). Aug. 17 – Eclipse (Journey Tribute Band). The Vault (103.5 & 106.1 FM) as event sponsor. Aug. 24 – Sir Rod (Rod Stewart Tribute). Aug. 31 – Funk Shue (R&B, Funk, Soul). Irie Radio (98.1 FM) as event sponsor. All events are free and attendees are recommended to bring their own seating. Beverages, including beer and wine, to be sold by O.C. Rec Boosters.
Sunset Park, a little gem downtown that hosts special events throughout the year.
For the past 10 years, the Ocean City Development Corporation (OCDC) and Town of Ocean City have worked with various local nonprofit organizations to bring free music concerts to Sunset Park, Ocean City’s newest public park. These concerts will be performed on Thursday evenings in July and
August starting at 7 p.m. Local nonprofit organizations sponsor individual events and performances throughout the year. Sunset Park is a beautiful setting and can even be rented out for private uses such as weddings and other private events. If interested in renting this space
one can contact the Town of Ocean City’s Recreation and Parks Department at 410-250-0125. So, make sure that you check out some of the special events at Sunset Park this summer. You can access information on music events at www.ocdc.org or www.ocean.com. Or call the OCDC at 410-289-7739.
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Downtown Dining Guide I CREDIT CARDS: V-Visa, MC-Master Card, AE-American Express, DIS-Discover I PRICE RANGE: $, $$, $$$ ____________________________ I 9TH ST. TAPHOUSE @ Paradise Plaza Inn, Ocean City 443-664-2641 / www.octaphouses.com / $$ / V-MC-AE-DIS / No reservations required / Children’s menu / Full bar / Open 7 days, 8 a.m. to 1 a.m. Enjoy breakfast, lunch and dinner just off the boardwalk in Ocean City, Md. With 22 beers on draft; beer is one of the main ingredients at the 9th Street Taphouse Bar and Grille. Serving a unique American style food, great staff and located right off the boardwalk in Ocean City, Md. What could be more fun? I BACKSHORE BREWING COMPANY, between 9th and 10th streets on Boardwalk, Ocean City 410-289-0006, 410-289-0008 / $-$$ / V-MC-DIS / No reservations required / Children’s menu / Full bar / Serving breakfast 8 a.m., Friday through Sunday. Open Monday through Thursday, 11 a.m. to 2 a.m. Indoor and outdoor seating. Enjoy boardwalk and ocean views. Featuring steam pots, tacos, burger and fresh seafood. Come see what all the buzz is about. I BRASS BALLS SALOON, Boardwalk, between 11th and 12th streets, Ocean City 410-289-0069 / $-$$ / V-MC-AE-DIS / Reservations suggested for parties of 10 or more / Children’s menu / Full bar / Serving breakfast, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. and full menu till 11 p.m. and limited menu after that till 1 a.m. Casual dining on the Boardwalk overlooking the beach. Happy Hour, Sunday through Friday, 3-6 p.m. I BUDDY’S CRABS & RIBS, Wicomico Street and the Bay, Ocean City 410-2890500 / www.buddysoc.com / $$ / V-MC-AEDIS / Children’s menu, under 6 EAT FREE / Full inside and outside bar / Bayfront dining.
All crabs steamed-to-order, ribs, fresh seafood, pastas, burgers, sandwiches, salads and more. NO GRATUITY REQUIRED. CARRY OUT CURBSIDE food/beer/wine available. Open Monday through Thursday, 4 p.m. and Friday through Sunday, open 11:30 a.m. a and offering happy hour 2 for 1 drinks open to close. I CARUSO PIZZA, Wicomico Street and Boardwalk, Ocean City 410-289-1990 / oceancitymdpizza.com / V-MC-AE-DIS / No reservations required / Children’s menu / Dine in, carry out. Open 7 days, 10 a.m. to midnight. Ocean City traditional pizza on the boardwalk serving pizza, 16 inch subs, calzones and strombolis and fresh squeezed lemonade. I CHEF'S RIDDLE, 203 N. Baltimore Ave., Ocean City 443-373-2012 / www.chefsriddle.com / $ / V-MC-AE-DIS / No reservations required / Children’s menu / Inside and outside dining. Serving breakfast at 7 a.m. Special events. House Specialties include banana French toast, Paris French toast , Ukrainian potato cakes and three different variations of eggs benedict. Go online to chefsriddle.com for more information about Chef's Riddle where the customer is King. I DOUGH ROLLER, South Division Street and Boardwalk 410-289-3501; 3rd Street and Boardwalk 410-289-2599; 41st Street and Coastal Hwy. 410-524-9254; 70th Street and Coastal Hwy. 410-524-7981 / www.DoughRollerRestaurants.com / $ / VMC-AE-DIS / No reservations required / Children’s menu / Ocean City’s favorite family restaurant for more than 35 years. Great kid’s menu. Dayton’s Fried Chicken available at South Division, 41st and 70th streets. Breakfast served daily at 3rd, 41st and 70th streets. Order online for carryout at both Coastal Highway locations.
I FROG BAR, Inlet Village, Ocean City 410289-3764/ $ / V-MC-AE-DIS / No reservations required / Children’s menu / Serving breakfast, lunch and dinner. Open daily from 8 a.m. to 2 a.m. and parking at the Inlet Village parking lot (under the bar) is free for bar patrons. Great place to sit and have a beer and relax. Enjoy appetizers, salads, sandwiches, burgers, chowders while enjoying the view of the inlet and Assateague Island. I GROTTO PIZZA, 14th Street on the boardwalk, Ocean City 443-664-2617 / www.grottopizza.com / $-$$ / V-MC-AE-DIS / No reservations required / Children’s menu / Full Bar / OC’s newest spot to watch people on the boardwalk, indoor dining and deck dining. Serving lunch and dinner. Open 7 days. I KITCHEN RESTAURANT, Corner of Philadelphia and Wicomico streets, Ocean City 410-289-2226 / $ / V-MC-DIS / No reservations required / Children’s menu / Free parking for customers. Open for breakfast and lunch, 7 days a week. Homestyle cooking, family atmosphere and reasonable prices. Breakfast features huge omelets, homemade creamed chipped beef, delicious French toast and Momma’s Homemade Greek Pastries. Fresh produce from our own gardens. I M.R. DUCKS, Talbot Street and the Bay, Ocean City 410-289-9125 / www.mrducksbar.com/ $ / V-MC-AE-DIS / Children’s menu / Full bar / Serving classic Eastern Shore pub fare in our outside open bar and dining deck. Open 7 days, 11:30 a.m. to 2:00 a.m., Memorial Day thru Labor Day. I MARINA DECK, 306 Dorchester St., Ocean City 410-289-4411 / www.marinadeckrestaurant.com / $-$$ / V-MC-AE-DIS / Reservations accepted for large parties / Children’s menu / Full bar / Ocean City, Maryland's #1 Seafood restaurant! Check out our delicious AYCE Menu: Steamed shrimp, BBQ
ribs, and blue crabs and crab legs. Relax and enjoy your dinner while the kids play in our brand new multi-level kid’s area! Join us for lunch and dinner in our dining room or on our open air, roof top deck or at the Wild Pony Bar for our signature cocktails and breathtaking Assateague Island view! I PICKLES PUB, 706 Philadelphia Ave., Ocean City 410-289-4891 / www.picklesoc.com / $-$$ / V-MC-AE-DIS / No reservations required / Children’s menu / Full bar / Open 7 days a week, ALL YEAR LONG, 11:30 a.m. to 2 a.m. Serving food til 1 a.m. Free parking across the street. Daily food and drink specials. Entertainment five nights a week. Most pool tables in town. Liquor store attached. Game room. Large parties welcome. Voted best sports bar 2017. Home of Pasadenas last OC shows. 29 drafts on tap. Carry out "just deliveries" available. I SHARKY’S PANINIS & ICE CREAM, 12 Somerset St., Ocean City 410-390-5989 / www.facebook.com/sharkyspaninis / $ / VMC-DIS / No reservations required / Children’s menu / Outside seating. Serving breakfast all day. Grill-pressed panini sandwiches, vegan and vegetarian options along with soft-serve ice cream. Open weekends in May and 7 Days a week in June. We are located in the Ocean City inlet and just off the boardwalk. I SOPRANOS, 100 S. Baltimore Ave., Ocean City 410-289-7492 / $ / V-MC-AE-DIS / No reservations required / Children’s menu / Open 7 days a week, 8 a.m. to 3 a.m. Serving breakfast, lunch and dinner. Our restaurant offers authentic Italian food featuring subs, sandwiches, burgers and pizza at family friendly prices. One block off the boardwalk between Caroline and Talbot streets. Eat in, carry out and free delivery available.
Ocean City Today/Discover Downtown
July 2017
DINE IN! CARRY OUT! FREE DELIVERY!!
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OPEN 7 DAYS 8AM – 3 AM
410-289-7492 PIZ A
NOW Serving Breakfast • New Breakfast Menu!
1 BLOCK OFF BOARDWALK BETWEEN CAROLINE & TALBOT ST
100 S. Baltimore Ave • Ocean City, MD
EVERY DAY SPECIALS Double cheeseburger +fries+soda... only $6.99 7" sub+fries+soda.... only $10.99 2 Slices of pizza + soda.... only $6.99
ON THE BOARDWALK
MONDAY TUESDAY ALL YOU CAN EAT PASTA BUY LARGE PIZZA 99 GET 2ND HALF OFF
$10.
WEDNESDAY dine in only. excludes holidays
THURSDAY
ALL APPETIZERS
dine in only. excludes holidays
dine in only. excludes holiday excludes calamari & chicken wings
$7.
(410) 289-6953
dine in only. excludes holidays
ALL 14” SUBS 99
BETWEEN CAROLINE & TALBOT STREETS
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www.purplemoose.com .....
LIVE ENTERTAINMENT .....
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Ocean City Today/Discover Downtown
July 2017
Public invited to watch artists Paint OC Wet paint sale again part of Art League’s annual plein air event set for Aug. 9-13
The Art League of Ocean City invites the public to view art being created on the spot during the 12th annual plein air event — “Artists Paint OC” — Aug. 9-13. The public is also invited to view and collect the art during the Wet Paint Sale on Saturday, Aug. 12 at the Ocean City Center for the Arts, 94th Street, bayside. “En plein air” is a French expression that means “in the open air,” used to describe the art of painting outdoors. Plein air events take place wherever the scenery is inspirational, artists congregate to paint it, and watchers gather to see the painters make art right before their eyes. Baltimore Magazine listed “Artists Paint OC” in their “50 Reasons Why We Love Our Beach.” The annual event brings in 50 plein air painters and features many popular regional artists as well as painters from around the country. Artists will paint Wednesday through Saturday at picturesque spots around the resort. The Art League’s Facebook page will list some locations. On Saturday, Aug.12, the artists will bring their best work to the Ocean City Center for the Arts to be
judged and participate in the Wet Paint Sale that evening. The Wet Paint Sale from 6-8 p.m. is free and open to the public — in 2016 drawing a crowd of more than 300 — and an opportunity to collect original artwork of local scenes at affordable prices. The Wet Paint Sale continues at the Arts Center on Sunday, Aug. 13 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday morning’s Quick Draw Contest wraps up the event. Artists will gather in downtown Ocean City and paint against the clock from 9-11 a.m. At 11 a.m. they will return to the boardwalk at South Division Street where their work will be judged and winners announced. The public may purchase the art off-the-easel until 1 p.m. The Ocean City Development Corp. sponsors the Quick Draw Contest. The plein air artwork will be on exhibit at the Ocean City Center for the Arts through the end of August. Ocean City Mayor Rick Meehan believes many visitors are surprised to learn the resort has a vibrant and active arts community, and the annual plein air event reinforces that awareness. “I cannot think of a more picturesque setting than the scenic views of Ocean City to inspire their creativity,” Meehan said. “I look forward to watching these events grow as our residents and visitors realize that art
Duane Sabiston shows his technique to Rachael Moore during 2016’s Quick Draw Competition on a Sunday morning on the Boardwalk.
is alive in Ocean City.” More information is available at www.artleagueofoceancity.org or by calling the Ocean City Center for the Arts at 410-524-9433. The Ocean City Center for the Arts at 502 94th Street is the home of the Art League of Ocean City, a nonprofit organization dedicated to bringing the visual arts to the community through education, exhibits, scholarship, programs and commu-
nity art projects. Financial support comes primarily through membership dues from individuals and corporate sponsors. Funding for exhibits is also provided by the Community Foundation of the Eastern Shore, the Worcester County Arts Council, Maryland State Arts Council and the National Endowment for the Arts, organizations dedicated to cultivating a vibrant cultural community where the arts thrive.
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Ocean City Today/Discover Downtown
Page 15 ADVERTISEMENT
Backshore’s Back, Alright! Familiar faces, the laid back vibe, and oceanfront craft beer keep it a must-see in OC OCEAN CITY, MARYLAND
By NATE TODD
he Backshore Brewing Co. crew is finding that more and more customers are returning each year to have their favorite beers, or to see what they’ll attempt next. Head Brewer Mathew Shockley and Manager/Assistant Brewer Nathan Todd brew on a daily basis and are constantly experimenting with new flavors and styles. Backshore has six beers on tap that are always changing. Whatever your taste in beer, you will find one to fall in love with. Styles range from complex, to rare, to mild summer ales used as ‘gateway’ flavors to lure the masses into the craft beer world. There’s also a nitro line that hosts beers infused with coffee or seasonally aged in bourbon barrels. Samples of all six craft beers are served in skateboard flights that come in various colors. Backshore has also started doing monthly small batch bottle releases. The first was a 12.3 percent Triple IPA called “Danger Zone” that was released during this year’s Air Show. The labels were hand drawn by Shockley and all bottles were filled, capped and labeled right in the tiny brewery, located on the Ocean City Boardwalk at 10th Street. They plan to release a different style of their choosing once every month, featuring more of Shockley’s art. The iconic painted VW bus has
T
Backshore Brewing Co., located next to Hammerheads on the Beach, serves samples of its craft beer, also known as flights, in skateboards of various colors.
turned the brewery into the perfect vacation photo opportunity. Tourists line up every day in the summer to sit inside the bus for photos, while sipping the awardwinning beers that have made Backshore a craft beer destination. The brewery also serves up more than just delicious beer; a full menu is available, as well. Favorites include specialty personal pizzas, and braided pretzels served with “Downtown Sugar Brown”-infused beer cheese or topped with delicious crab dip. In addition to the ever-changing six taps of craft beer, Backshore Brewing Co. continues to create new flavors of its Hoop Tea, a wildly popular alcoholic tea drink. Aside from the Sweet Lemon Tea and White Mango, two new flavors have been released this year in pouches. A Watermelon Mint Green Tea and Peach Tea Lemonade can be found wherever Hoop Tea is sold. The tea is 4 percent alcohol and almost entirely organic. It is now being distributed in more than five states.
913 Atlantic Ave., Ocean City, MD 410-289-0008
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July 1st - As If 5pm
July 2nd - Over Time 4pm July 5th - Batman 5pm
July 6th - Jimmy Charles 6pm July 7th - Johnny Bling 6pm
July 9th - Bo Dickerson 4pm July 12th - Batman 5pm
July 13th - Poole Brothers 6pm July 14th - Kevin Poole 6pm July 15th - The Klassix 5pm July 16th - Bird Dog 4pm July 19th - Batman 5pm
July 20th - Steve Ports Duo 6pm July 21st - Side Project 6pm
July 22nd - Dr. Harmonica 5pm July 23rd - Tranzfusion 4pm July 26th - Batman 5pm July 28th - As If 6pm
July 29th - Bonedaddys 5pm July 30th - The Racket 5pm Aug. 2nd - DJ Batman 5pm
Aug. 3rd - Monkee Paw 6pm
Ocean City Today/Discover Downtown
July 2017
July 2017
Ocean City Today/Discover Downtown
Jody Veader, left, and Betsy Harrison, volunteers from the Art League of Ocean City, painted the first utility box downtown in 2004.
Painted utility boxes big hit, courtesy of local volunteers One of the most recognizable programs the Ocean City Development Corporation and its Public Art Committee implements is its painted utility box program. Starting back in 2004, the OCDC approached the Art League of Ocean City to join with it in painting several of the downtown Delmarva Power utility boxes throughout the downtown area. The Art League’s Jody Veader, an artist and art teacher, offered to coordinate the project. In 2004, the art league volunteers painted 10 utility boxes, each with an Eastern Shore theme. The first utility box painted was at S. Baltimore Avenue and S. Division Street. The work was done by local artists Betsy Harrison and Veader, both Art League volunteers. Since then, another 15 utility boxes have been painted by volunteer groups and professional artists. In 2005, the four area high schools and their art students painted four utility boxes in one day. Participating were students from Stephen Decatur High School, Worcester Preparatory School, Snow Hill High School and Pocomoke High School. In 2006, students at Cedar Chapel Special School painted a utility box on Somerset Street, and in 2010, several students from Most Blessed Sacrament painted the utility box at Holy Savior Catholic Church on 17th Street. Most painted utility boxes are south of 17th Street, but not all. Bob Torrey, the owner of Happy Jack Pancake House, sponsored a local artist to paint the utility box near his business at 26th Street and Philadelphia Avenue. The utility box at the Ocean City library at Coastal Highway and 100th Street is the most northerly painted box. The most recently painted utility box was completed in May by the
Ocean City Chamber’s Young Professionals group at S. Baltimore Avenue and Caroline Street. For the past year, the Sherwin-Williams Paint Store at 11901 Coastal Highway in Ocean City donated paint and paint supplies to OCDC for these volunteer efforts. Generally, the program works in two ways: 1) completed by volunteers with OCDC providing paint and supplies or, 2) completed by an artist sponsored by a local business or individual. In either case, the OCDC prepares a utility box with two coats of “Ocean City blue” color paint. After painting, the OCDC clear coats the utility box to protect it from UV rays and dirt. Each year the OCDC cleans each utility box and applies a fresh coat of latex clear coat. A 4-inch by 6-inch metal plaque is installed to recognize the sponsor or volunteer group that completed the painting project. The paint on the utility box should last seven to 10 years. The OCDC has started to repaint some of its original painted utility boxes and has several new sponsors participating. Rarely are these utility boxes targets of graffiti. OCDC is appreciative of its partners for making this program a success. This gratitude extends, of course, to Delmarva Power, which owns the utility boxes, and the Art League of Ocean City which has painted many of these utility boxes. The OCDC and art league will be working together to paint additional utility boxes in the downtown area in the near future. This program has turned generic-looking utility boxes, usually located at visible intersections in downtown Ocean City, into a fun and attractive public art program. For more information about the OCDC painted utility box program or sponsorship, call OCDC at 410-2897739 or check out our website at www.ocdc.org.
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Painted utility box by ALOC volunteers in 2004.
Box sponsored by Bank of Ocean City painted in 2015.
Box painted by Ocean City Chamber’s Young Professional group in 2017.
Box painted by Cedar Chapel Special School students in 2006.
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“TO GO” ORDERS CALL 15th Street Shopping Center Ocean City, MD
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July 2017 2017
July 2017
Ocean City Today/Discover Downtown
Box painted by Stephen Decatur High School students in 2005.
Jewel of the Ocean Somerset and the Boardwalk 410.289.4200
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Ocean City Today/Discover Downtown
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July 2017
What’s new in downtown Ocean City this summer? The visual landscape in downtown Ocean City has some noticeable changes. The most obvious change is the new “beach ball” water tower at First Street, constructed in 2016 and functional as of February 2017. Less obvious is what is no longer visible. The water towers at Worcester Street (built in 1955) and 15th Street (built in 1959) were dismantled in February 2017. The colorful new tower not only replaces the two aging towers, but serves as a visual response to the question “Are we there yet?” Another change to downtown that is relatively invisible is the conversion from propane gas to natural gas. Sandpiper Energy, a wholly owned subsidiary of Chesapeake Utilities, has been moving progressively closer and closer to Ocean City over the past few years. Lines were extended beneath the bay floor and although there are only currently approximately 200 residences/businesses fully converted at this time, the expectation is to convert 3,500 accounts over the next few years. A welcome addition to the Boardwalk landscape for families is a new playground located at N. Division Street.
The new Boardwalk playground was officially opened for fun on May 1. There are multiple fenced-in play structures nestled between the Boardwalk and beach. An exciting new free event to downtown Ocean City this summer is “100 Nights of Lights.” Every evening from May 27 to Sept. 2 high powered search lights installed in the area of N. Division Street on the beach light up the sky in a synchronized light show. The shows run nightly every 20 minutes from 9-11 p.m. There are some exciting businesses that are new to the downtown that will add to the already diverse offerings in the area.
Escapomania – At 6 Second Street (between Baltimore Avenue & Boardwalk). Ready. Solve. Escape. For those of you unfamiliar with this popular trend, according to their website, “Escape room is a real-life escape game. You have to escape the mystery room by solving a series of multitask puzzles, finding hidden clues and eventually get out in time. You have 60 minutes to escape. The clock is ticking, so be quick! Or… you could be trapped inside forever!”
JESUS AT THE BEACH FESTIVAL FREE ADMISSION
July 31, August 1 & 2 Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday 23rd Annual - 2017
PRAISE, WORSHIP, PRAYER, HOLY SPIRIT MINISTRY at the Ocean City, Maryland Convention Center. Daily from 10AM - 1PM
PRAISE MUSIC on the Beach at North Division Street in Ocean City, MD. Nightly from 7PM - 10PM
For more information: JesusAtTheBeach.org or call 410-289-1296 Sponsored by Jesus At The Beach, Inc., and Son’Spot Ministries, Inc.
Ocean City’s new water tank sports a beach ball design.
For more information, call 443856-9241 or visit www.escapomania.com Captive Escape Room - 101 S. Baltimore Avenue (corner of Caroline Street & S. Baltimore Ave - 1 block from Boardwalk). According to their website, “Captive is North America’s most intense and unique live escape room experience. You and your team will have to navigate through a labyrinth of logical, physical, and investigative puzzles in order to find your way out. Captive is designed to provide a chal-
lenging and incredibly fun outlet for teams of all levels, but be warned, our rooms are quite realistic and are not for the faint of heart.” For more information, call 410289-1294 or visit www.captiverooms.com Bad Ass Bikes – 9 Somerset Street (just off the Boardwalk on the pedestrian Somerset Plaza). “We have The Baddest Bikes at the Beach! We carry some of the most sought after, highly collectable, eye catching and awesome riding bikes. So come start your morning off with
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Downtown gains new shops, sites
the coolest bikes at the beach and also check out some of our cool parts and accessories, including our own line of LED lighting for your Bad Ass Bike along with our custom shirts and hats.” For more information, call 410289-1108 or visit www.badassbikesinc.com, Puff Cigar Lounge and Humidor – 210 Talbot Street. “Welcome to Ocean City’s premier lounge and walk-in humidor… Puff Cigar is a trendsetting Cigar Lounge and Humidor, offering our first-rate products and exceptional customer service to shoppers in our brand new shop. We’re a business made up of innovators and forward-thinkers, with the drive and wherewithal to constantly improve every shopper’s experience.” For more information, call 410390-7077 or visit www.puffsessions.com Jasmine Nail Salon – 107 Somerset Street. The only nail salon in downtown Ocean City. Their website states “Our cool and friendly atmosphere is designed to make you feel relaxed and refreshed. Jasmine Nails offers a wide selection of nail care and beauty services including full or partial Manicures, Pedicures, Nail Art, Waxing, Eyelash
New for the kids is this playground on the Boardwalk at N. Division Street.
extensions and much more.” No appointment necessary, but reservations are welcomed. For more information, call 410289-2700 or visit www.jasminenailsoc.com Chef’s Riddle – 203 Baltimore Avenue. Chef’s Riddle, a new restaurant in the downtown area, is sure to become
a favorite spot for breakfast and lunch. Chef owned and operated with a focus on fresh, quality ingredients. Open daily 7 a.m. to 3 p.m., with breakfast until 11:30 a.m. Eat indoors, or enjoy your meal on the outside deck. For more information, call 443-373-2012 or visit www.chefsriddle.com Ocean 13 – 13th Street & Board-
walk. Fast becoming a local favorite, check out Ocean 13, on the boards at 13th Street. “Ocean 13 offers the best bites at the beach, ice cream, and a full bar! From specialty breakfasts, to the best in adult libations, we’re your one stop shop!” For more information, call 410-289-6213 or visit www.ocean13ocmd.com.
Serving Breakfast Daily at 7AM
House Specials •••
include
•••
Banana Bread Toast Chesapeake Benedict •••
and
•••
Ukrainian Potato Cakes 203 N. Baltimore Ave. Between 2nd & 3rd St. Downtown OC MD | 443 373 2012 chefsriddle.com
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The most famous of all of Ocean City’s attractions is, of course, the Boardwalk, which accommodates millions of people every year.
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