November/December Ocean City Magazine by Ocean City Magazine

Ocean City NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2017

Americaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Greatest Family Resort

2 OCEAN CITY MAGAZINE

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2017

Contents

November/December 2017

The Season of Giving

Ocean City Restaurant Association donates the proceeds from its Chili Chowder Festival to the OCFD Charitable Foundation. Photo by Stefanie Godfrey

Features 46 A Step Back in Time

48 Have a Seat 50 Tales From the Beach 52 Look & Sea

In Every Issue 5 44 54 65

Letter from the Editor Activity of the Month Good Karma Last Shot

Shore Eats 6 8 10 14 16

In the Kitchen Battle Chili Famished Foodie Sunday Girl Eats Dining Guide

Local Ocean 18 18 19 20 21 22 26 28

Adorable Creature Ocean City Employees Ocean City Girl The Interview November/December Events Snapshots It’s History Scott Troxel

On The Beach 56 58 60 61

Book of the Month Word Search Ocean’s Eleven Quiz Activities Guide

Services

62 Pets for Adoption 63 Services Guide 64 Real Tour

Shopping OC 30 32 38 40 42 44

The Look Gift Guide Shop Guide Flying Carp Kennedy Upholstery Ocean City Style

On the Cover Watercolor artist Marie Natale paints a gingerbread City Hall in the spirit of the holiday season in Ocean City.

We are the perfect gift! Give them Ocean City, all year long!

r o f 2 $2 ! s e u s s i x i s

Subscribe online at ocnjmagazine.com

From the Editor A time to chill... The leaves are falling… the air is crisp, and I’m seeing tons of memes about Christmas being 12, 11, 10 weeks away… it must be autumn. November and December are when we all take a collective deep breath from the frenetic energy of summer. I know, it’s hard to beat summer. Summer is magic… a time when you’re on the My son Salem and his baby cousin go, outside all the time, on Wyatt enjoy a beach day in OC on the beach, in the ocean, you October 7, a new record for us name it. But autumn and winter don’t just bring us chilly weather, they give us time to chill, at least a little more time to chill (looking at you soccer mom and dad). It’s time to sit by the fireplace and laugh about how much we did this summer. Time to relish in the fun we had throughout the year and the festivities we have planned for the holidays. Though these next few months are considered the off season here in the OC, it’s wrong to think the town shuts down. Quite honestly, it’s far from it. Holiday season in Ocean City has its own magic. When the gorgeous decorations go up along Asbury Avenue and the Boardwalk, it’s something to behold. And the sight of rows of garland sweeping across the tops of the street is definitely a selfie waiting to happen. Events like Earlier Than the Bird Shopping Extravaganza, Christmas in the Downtown, and the train show at the Music Pier are filled with charm. You can even get your photo taken with the head elf and take a free horse and carriage ride. Inside this issue, you’ll find many more events, a giant holiday gift guide, interviews, gorgeous photos, and stories on the people that make Ocean City America’s Greatest Family Resort. So grab your cup of cocoa, sit by the fire and read our last issue of the year. Whether you’re reading it on paper or screen, I hope you enjoy. And if you do take that selfie or any other OC photo, tag us #ocnjmagazine. See you soon,

New Contest!

Spot the Surfer We've hidden a surfer in one of the ads in this issue. Email us with the ad he is surfing on. A winner will be chosen from the correct entries to win a

$50 gift card to Cousin's Restaurant

Here's what it looks like in the ad A bigger version to help you Email your answer to editor@ocnjmagazine.com Contest ends December 31

Follow OCEAN CITY MAGAZINE on... oceancitymagazine

ocnjmagazine

Stef Godfrey, Editor

Need more Ocean City magazine?

Visit OCNJmagazine.com Pinterest pinterest.com/ocnjmagazine Facebook facebook.com/OceanCityMagazine Instagram instagram.com/ocnjmagazine

Shore Eats

In the Kitchen

Ivy Pho Where it isn’t just about the food, it’s about the experience. By Sam Florio

“ Chef Bryan and his fiancee Ivy were adamant about bringing their Vietnamese culture to Ocean City”

HAVE been teaching myself the ins and outs of cooking and food for the last year or so. One thing I have learned through writing about my trials and tribulations in the kitchen is that eating isn’t just about the food. Eating is about the experience. When I think about my favorite memories from my 25 years of life so far, food is almost always involved. Christmas Eve and Christmas are completely centered around food. My family sits in their Sundaybest around the Christmas table laughing and reaching over each other to spoon out pasta, laughing and telling stories.

6 OCEAN CITY MAGAZINE

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2017

Ivy Pho at 403 E. 14th in Ocean City is an experience. Chef Bryan Pham doesn’t mind if you aren’t familiar with Vietnamese food. His fiancee Ivy Tory will greet you with a smiling face, and both of them will answer any questions you have. Bryan and Ivy want you to sit down at their tables with your mom after getting your nails done or with your friends after shopping Downtown and enjoy the food. I spent the morning with Chef Bryan at Ivy Pho learning all about Beef and Chicken Pho so that you can have your own experience with family and friends and maybe even make it at home. Chef did not hold back too many recipe

details when it comes to Pho, but you have to get to Ivy Pho as soon as possible to try their spring rolls and peanut sauce (a secret recipe he was not willing to share!) Ivy Pho begins with a 20 (yes, 20) gallon pot to make their broth for the next day. The broth takes seven hours on the stove. It is refrigerated for twenty-four hours to completely meld the flavors and create a savory, flavorful broth that is perfectly warm and cozy. “We have 20 pounds of beef bones which we bring to boil. I add sugar, ginger, onion and some herbs. I also use a little bit of anise seed. Everything sits together for many hours. The

20 gallons reduces to about 15. We refrigerate for 24 hours before ready to serve.” I followed him to the stove as he began heating the premade broth from days prior. As that warmed on the burner in the kitchen, he walked over to a massive bucket of rice noodles in water. Chef Bryan removed two servings of rice noodles adding, “I am going to put rice noodles in at the end. The noodles must not cook too hot or too long. They will get mushy and not be enjoyed!” He prepared two bowls. One bowl for beef pho and one for chicken. The beef is kept very cold so that it can be sliced so thin you can almost see through it. A pile of rice noodles, a few meatballs, and the thin, raw, beef slices are laid gently into the bowl. Chef Bryan ladled the very hot broth onto the meat and we watched it cook right before our eyes. The beef Pho is garnished with green onion, cilantro, and crispy fried onions. Chef Bryan and Ivy were adamant about bringing their Vietnamese culture to Ocean City, but they wanted to make a few changes. The chicken dish is an important addition to their menu for all of its health benefits. They only use chicken breast, no fat, and the bowl of Pho is packed with vegetables. “In Vietnam they use a lot of fat and oil from whole chicken, chicken skin and bones in their Pho. We found out that Americans really like to eat healthy and do not like all of those oils. For my dish at Ivy Pho, I soak broccoli and bok choy for a minute or so in very hot water. I add them to the dish with rice noodles. We add the chicken and the broth at the end.” We walked into the restaurant to place them on the table so that I could photograph them

in the gorgeous natural light that fills Ivy Pho. Chef Bryan continued to tell me how important the broth is in Vietnamese cooking. “We like to add things to the dish for flavor, but never IN the broth. We like to keep the broth very simple. For example, I have given you a plate of basil, but in Vietnam we take a spoonful of the Pho, and then we bite the basil. This is so the basil does not change the flavor in your bowl, just in your mouth.” Insisting that I try everything, Chef Bryan pulled out chopsticks, hoisin, fish sauce and every accoutrement on the table so that I could experience the food exactly as he wanted. I asked question after question. “Fish sauce is very important in Vietnamese cooking?” and he responded with a contagious smile, “Oh yes. Add a little bit in your bite and it makes you feel warm with so much flavor. It is so good!” With each explanation and answer, I could sense that Chef Bryan was reliving his memories and experiences through his food. I was so full by the time I left that I couldn’t thank him enough. I felt like I had just spent an hour with Chef Bryan in the kitchen of his private home, and I think you will feel the

same way when you have your own experience at Ivy Pho. Chef Bryan and Ivy have created a Vietnamese restaurant that makes you feel cozy, at home, and like they have created each dish just for you. I would tell you to try everything on the menu, but the pho and the spring rolls are the first thing you should ask for when you walk into the restaurant. Don’t forget extra peanut sauce! You won’t be disappointed.

Shore Eats

Battle Chili

A little more spicilicious!

Knockout chili here!

Now that it’s nearly winter, my body goes into some weird, constant cold state, where I’m always on the verge of a total shiver meltdown. That said, I tend to gravitate towards warm foods to keep me sane. Enter chili from Red's Jersey Mex. Now, I’m already well-versed in soup from Red’s. Usually I get the chicken corn chowder or the tomato bisque, but today I was into something a little more spicilicious. And that is exactly what I got when I ordered the chili con carne. Reds brought out a cup of chili piping hot, the way soup of any sort should be served. There are optional

I’m most impressed with this chili’s sincerity. This ancho chipotle turkey chili is some gooooood chili. The first taste on the tongue is warm and full and definitely not too acidic. After that the flavors continue to expand, sort of like my belt line. The vegetables, including the green peppers add a lovely freshness to the mix and have such a nice texture – not mushy but just enough firmness to give this chili a bite. I really like the use of turkey here. I find some beef chilis are overpowered by beef’s robust flavors but the turkey here is sweet and hearty at the same time. The beans were tender yet firm and tasty so

She Said cheese and onion toppings (both free) and since I like options, I chose both. From the first bite, the mix of the seasoned beef and kidney beans paired with the raw onion and creamy cheese made me wish I could cook like Reds. It had a spicy bite to it that only grew as you kept on eating. Reds uses a blend of spices including cayenne pepper and guajillo chili powder to create that classic, warm spicy chili taste that Americans have been craving since the 1700s. The cup also came with crunchy homemade chips on the side, perfect for dipping... ole!

Reds Jersey Mex 206 E 11th Street, Ocean City

He Said they were obviously cooked to order for the chili and not canned. Owner Jon Talese tells me he’s going for several layers of flavors with this brew. He uses Mexican cumin, simmers the veggies for 100 years to break them down and adds secret ingredients to make the whole thing pop. The ancho and chipotle chilis complement each other well and add a freshness that goes way beyond simply using chili powder for flavor. Knockout chili here. Order several quarts for your next football game and be a hero.

Jon and Patty's 637 Asbury, Ocean City

>>>> Thank you for battling it out with us this year. See you in 2018 for more epic food fights! 8 OCEAN CITY MAGAZINE

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2017

Try "The Best Balsamic Vinegar EVER" @ The Tasting Bar

Aged Balsamic Vinegars & Crème Glazes EVOO & Infused Olive Oils Imported & Wisconsin Cheeses-Spreads Sea Salts & Rubs Local & Artisan Honey Gift Box Sets & Gift Baskets OPEN YEAR ROUND

709 ASBURY AVENUE  OCEAN CITY NJ 609-525-0339  CITY2SHOREGOURMET.COM

FRESH DOUGH MADE DAILY! HAND TOSSED PIZZA CHEESESTEAKS HOAGIES • WINGS

elivery Pick Up or D Est. 1988

44 ROUTE 9 MARMORA, NJ

KIRKSPIZZA.COM • 609-390-1845

CLOSING FOR RENOVATIONS ON 10/16/17

OPEN DAILY THROUGH 11/26/17

BREAKFAST WITH SANTA! CHRISTMAS EVE 9AM-12PM 9

Shore Eats

Famished Foodie

THE PUB AT GREATE BAY

Get your Scottish accent on... it's time for comfort food by the links

’VE always liked the Pub at Greate Bay Country Club. I’ve played golf at the club a few times and I always had a nice meal after my round (love playing golf there as well). I think the Pub is an underappreciated little spot with a lot to offer. So on a cool autumn Sunday I headed out with Batgirl for a sort of “date afternoon” without the kids. If we’d had time I would have made Batgirl play 18 with me. Instead we settled for the best part of a golf outing – lunch afterwards. The Pub at Greate Bay is open to the public. Did you know that? Greate Bay is a private club requiring membership, but the Pub is open to everyone. I’m assuming many people don’t realize this cozy little eatery is an option so they don’t pay it much attention. But that’s a mistake because the service is friendly, the food is tasty and well-prepared, and there’s a full bar with plenty of good beers on tap; perfect for a mellow Sunday afternoon. I’m a fan of a good pub and as we walked

10 OCEAN CITY MAGAZINE

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2017

in there was football on the TV (as well as golf ) and there were a few golfers sitting at the bar. It’s a lovely ambiance and is reminiscent of neighborhood pubs in Scotland, the birthplace of golf. I was so immersed in the setting that I toyed with the idea of speaking with a heavy Scottish brogue for the rest of the afternoon. So for instance “I’m going to the pub over there” became “am gan tae the poob oor air.” But Batgirl got one taste of my bad accent and put a stop to that nonsense quickly. The décor is old-school pub with lots of wood and a grand bar. It’s warm and welcoming with big windows allowing a good view and natural light, but it’s also bit quirky and dark, like a good pub should be. There are several beers on tap to choose from and you could spend an enjoyable afternoon

with your wife or mates watching football, having lunch and drinking beer. The menu is standard tavern fare; burgers, several nice salads including an Asian Salmon salad, a few hot sandwiches, and deli sandwiches. Nothing too fancy but in my experience, Greate Bay usually serves a good meal, whatever it may be. I ordered a bacon cheeseburger and Batgirl ordered the chicken noodle soup and a saltimbocca flat bread pizza. Batgirl danced with the idea of a nice Sunday afternoon libation, but we still had things to do so we ordered a couple of Pellegrinos and sat back for some easy conversation and a little football. This is a quiet joint with a few TVs behind the bar, so we’re not talking a made-for-TV sports bar. I usually eat here after a round of golf and that’s what the Pub appears designed for – golfers to have lunch and a beer – but we like to try new places and this place has a nice view and is conducive to easy conversation so

>>>> Pub Grub The Pub at Greate Bay sits next to the golf

course with plenty of good views, libations, and eats

Quality Products Since 1988 Send a little love from the jersey shore this holiday season

We Ship A N YW H E RE in the USA !

Corporate Discounts Available!

Order Online mallonsbakery.com Stop in or

Call today!

14th & Bay Ocean City NJ 1-888-880-2867 Open Fridays, Saturdays & Sundays Nov 24-Dec 15 Open Daily Dec 15-Dec 23

$1 OFF

WHOLE PIZZA OR MERCHANDISE

Now taking reservations for holiday parties,

BY SHOWING THIS AD* AT OUR NEW 9TH STREET LOCATION

birthday parties & private events

*NO COPIES ACCEPTED OCGB 2017

AT 9TH & BOARDWALK!

3 Locations on the Ocean City Boardwalk 8th and Boardwalk • 9th and Boardwalk • 12th and Boardwalk Free delivery anywhere in Ocean City, call 609-399-2548

Or try our 4th location in Somers Point Ocean Heights Shopping Center • 609-927-9900 Visit us online at mancospizza.com or facebook.com/MancosPizza • Follow us on Instagram @mancomanco 11

game on. Our server Erin brought out the soup first. “There’s a lot of chicken in this soup which I like and the broth is very flavorful. The carrots are cooked properly and it’s just good soup,” said the Girl Wonder. Greate Bay usually attracts good chefs and Chef Ulrich Lohs recently joined the Greate Bay Kitchen under Executive Chef Jack Whelan. Whelan is the former executive head chef and founder of The Viking Cooking School at Harrah’s Resort and Lohs was executive chef at the original Golden Nugget, Hilton and Atlantic Club for 34 years. Between the two of them, these guys have about 300 years of kitchen experience. Soon enough my burger and Batgirl’s pizza arrived. I like good pub food. This is not haute cuisine, just good comfort food. But don’t get me wrong, I expect quality food wherever I go, whether it’s gourmet dining or pub fare. My burger was just what I was hoping for; a nice eight ounce, Black Angus patty with lettuce, tomato (no onion for me) cheddar and bacon. Let’s break it down. Let’s start with an often overlooked facet of a good burger, the bun. Big and soft (I might describe it as a brioche bun) with a rich taste, this bun held up well to the juiciness of the burger. Too often the bun goes soggy, but this one was a good choice. The burger itself was really juicy so obviously some thought went into choosing a beef patty with the proper fat content (too little fat, too dry). Cooked just right with a little pink inside, this burger had plenty of flavor. I also noticed that the bacon was crispy. It should also be noted the accompanying pickle slices were cold and crisp and the fries were yummy. Very important that the pickles are cold. Batgirl seemed to enjoy her flatbread pizza. “This is really good. I’ve never had a flatbread pizza like this before. There’s cauliflower and prosciutto and a little bit of sauce and some ricotta I think. It’s very crispy with a nice hint of saltiness and it’s creamy too. Greate Bay has a pleasant vibe and the view of the golf course from the Pub is a nice touch. The golf course, built in 1923 by noted architect Wille Parks and redesigned in 1972 by Tom Fazio, is well known in the area for being challenging yet friendly. It’s definitely one of my favorites. The scenery is great and the course is meticulously maintained. The rest of the facility has options for weddings and large events and also boasts a 12 OCEAN CITY MAGAZINE

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2017

fairly large social calendar for members. Be you a golfer, a Scotsman or just a plain old hungry person, the Pub at Greate Bay could be a good spot for a good meal and nice conversation on a sunny afternoon. The Pub at Greate Bay is located at Greate Bay Country Club, 901 Mays Landing Road, Somers Point. For more information, www. greatebaycountryclub.com.

HOLIDAY HOURS Dec 29-Jan 1• 7am-2pm Closed Dec 4-28 Over 40 Varieties of Pan Fried Omelettes! 13 Varieties of Waffles! 609-391-0222 • 709 E. 9th Street One Block from Boardwalk

@augiesomeletteandwafflehouse

730 Asbury Avenue 609-399-1260 Pies Scrapple Pies Cinnamon Buns Homemade Donuts Cakes For Every Occassion Our Delicious Butter Cookies

Two Locations to Serve You

OPEN YEAR ROUND Monday-Friday: 7am-6pm Saturday: 7am-5pm Sunday: 7am-2pm

Wards Pastry

556 Sea Isle Blvd., Ocean View 310 North Railroad Ave., Rio Grande

We have FRASIER FIRS!

SEY MEX J ER CAFE

(Formerly Rojo’s)

E S T A B L I S H E D

2 0 0 4

Great Jersey Fresh Mexican Cuisine • Tacos, Burritos, Quesadillas, Fresh Salads, Platters, Seafood, Chicken, Sandwiches, Vegetarian Dishes, & Gluten Free Menu Available

EAT IN, TAKE OUT, FREE PARKING, FREE DELIVERY • WiFi • Cash Only • ATM 11 th St. & Haven Ave • 609-399-2272 • redsjerseymex.com 13

These r t eats are ld in co best made wever, o weather, h at hold h t t le â&#x20AC;&#x2122;t don the you back on ys! a d warmer

SUNDAY

Sand Tarts

These cookies are sure to be a hit come Christmas time! INGREDIENTS

2 cups flour, plus extra flour for rolling out the dough 1/2 teaspoon baking powder 1/2 teaspoon baking soda 1/2 teaspoon salt 2/3 cup butter, softened 1 cup sugar

1 egg 2 tablespoons milk 1 teaspoon vanilla 3-4 (or more if needed) egg yolks, lightly beaten (do this right before baking the cookies) Mixture of cinnamon and sugar

Combine flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl. In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugar. Add one egg, milk, and vanilla, and beat until well combined. Add the dry ingredients, in increments, to the butter and sugar mixture and mix over medium speed. Form the dough into a ball and wrap in plastic wrap. Chill overnight. When you are ready to bake the cookies, preheat oven to 400ÂşF. Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface. You want to keep the dough cold so roll it out in sections, while keeping the unused portions in the fridge till needed. The dough should be no more than a 1/4" thick or thinner if you can get it that thin. Cut out cookies using various shaped cookie cutters. Place on cookie sheets and brush with the egg yolk and sprinkle with a generous amount of the cinnamon sugar mixture. Bake for 5-7 minutes until golden brown. Cool briefly on the cookie tray and then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. *Recipe note: These cookies are best made in cold weather. If you find that the dough is sticking due to warmer temps, you can add additional flour while rolling out the dough. Be careful not to add too much as this will alter the consistency of these thin, crispy cookies. Enjoy! Follow Sunday Girl on Instagram @sundaygirleats and www.sundaygirleats.wordpress.com.

14 OCEAN CITY MAGAZINE

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2017

Girl

EATS

BENNIE’S BREAD & Italian Market Everything Tastes BETTA on a Bennie’s Roll

1159 Asbury Avenue, Ocean City, NJ 609-398-9450 • www.benniesbread.com

Old World Hearth Baked Bread • Homemade Italian Food Brick Oven Pizza • Breakfast Sandwiches • Lunch Specials

Open: Fri-Sat 8am-6pm & Sun 8am-4pm! Thanksgiving week open Wed 8am-5pm Thanksgiving day open 7-10am

Shore Eats The Dining Guide BURGERS l FRIES l CHEESESTEAKS CJs Corner Grill Creative and tasty plates for breakfast and lunch. 701 Shore, Somers Point. 927-4701. Chatterbox Thickest shakes on the island and homemade soups. 500 E. 9th, 399-0113. Del’s Oceanside Grill Menu is time-tested and sure to please adults and kiddies alike. 934 Boardwalk, 399-3931. Flippers Grill Outside at Port-O-Call Hotel. Burgers, etc. 1510 Boardwalk, 399-8812. Jilly’s Ice cream and fries... best day ever! Ice cream, 1172 Boardwalk. Fries, 1034 Boardwalk. Curly's Fries Little pillows of carb heaven. These fries rock. 822 & 944 Boardwalk, 398-1972.

BREAKFAST l SWEETS

Positively Fourth Street Breakfast and lunch. Dinner in season. Innovative dishes. 400 Atlantic, 814-1886.

Island Grill Seafood and steak, open for breakfast, lunch, dinner. 1st & Atlantic, 3919616.

Wards Pastry Butter cookies, sticky buns, scrapple pie. 730 Asbury, 399-1260. Open year round.

Jay’s Crabshack 737 Asbury, 399-4022. Open year round.

Yoasis This froyo is good for you. Trust us. 838 Asbury, 525-2100. Yoasis Beach Bowls Fro yo, acai bowls, pitaya bowls, smoothies. 1242 Boardwalk, 938-0898. Starbucks You know. 1061 Asbury, 938-6905.

Ocean City Restaurant Association Member restaurants all over the island. Eatinocnj.com.

Bennie’s Bread and Italian Market Fresh bread, pastries, brick oven pizzas, sandwiches, and tomato pie. 1159 Asbury, 3989450.

Oves Restaurant Fresh seafood dinners, homemade apple cider donuts. 4th & Boardwalk, 398-3172.

A La Mode Fresh, homemade ice cream. 55th & West, 398-2207. Aunt Betty’s Ice Cream Shack Seriously fresh ice cream. Even treats for your doggies. 2100 Asbury; 40th & West. 398-4001; 398-4005.

Manco & Manco Pizza Three locations on the Boards. 7th, 9th, and 12th Streets. New 9th Street location now open! 399-2548.

Augie's Omelette and Waffle House Big, delicious breakfasts. 709 E. 9th, 391-0222.

GLOBAL CUISINE l SEAFOOD

Browns Restaurant Hot donuts worth walking nearly the entire span of the Boardwalk just to get one, or ten. St. Charles & Boardwalk, 391-0677. Fractured Prune Donut Shoppe Hot, custom made donuts. Thousands of combinations. 1225 Asbury, 399-0482; 3339 West, (267) 614-6295. Johnny B Goode Waffles, ice cream, family entertainment. 14th & Asbury, 525-0646 & 34th & West, next to Hoy’s, 525-0648. Johnson’s Popcorn One whiff of this corn a cookin, and you'll be hooked. 1368 Boardwalk, (800) 842-2676. Open year round. Mallon’s Sticky Buns Fresh, gooey buns. 1340 Bay Avenue, 399-5531, 410 55th Street, 399-7220. Ocean City Coffee Company The perfect cup of coffee. 9th & Boardwalk, & 1066 Boardwalk, 917 Asbury, 399-5533. Open year round.

16 OCEAN CITY MAGAZINE

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2017

Mildred's Strathmere Restaurant Italian specialties, seafood. 901 Ocean Drive, Strathmere 263-8203.

PIZZA l BREAD l ROLLS

Kirk’s Pizza We love the chicken cheesesteak with fried onions and the chicken fingers. White pizza, too! 44 Route 9, Marmora. 390-1845.

Barefoot Market Scones, bread, coffee, artisan lunches. 241 West, 399-0221.

Jon & Patty’s Healthy, creative bistro fare. New second floor seating. 637 Asbury Avenue, 3993377. Open year round.

Adelene Serving breakfast and lunch daily. Gorgeous beachfront space. 1510 Boardwalk, (800) 334-4546. Casaldi's Cucina Classic Italian dishes. 199 New Road, Linwood. 365-8260. Cousin’s Varied and sophisticated menu. Outside dining, catering too. 104 Asbury, 3999462. Crab Trap Seafood, prime rib, steak and pasta dishes. 2 Broadway, Somers Point, 927-7377. Emily’s Ocean Room Cafe High tea all summer, breakfast and lunch year round. 11th & Boardwalk, 398-5700. Open year round. Frankie's on the Bay Large menu with lots of options to create your perfect dish. 1050 Bay, 399-2520. Hula Restaurant and Sauce Company Tasty Hawaiian cuisine. We love the Firecracker Shrimp. 940 Boardwalk, 399-2400.

Red’s Jersey-Mex Superior Mexi/Southwest food. Gluten-free menu. 11th & Haven, 3992272. Spadafora's Restaurant & Clam Bar Famous dockside fresh local flavor. 843 Atlantic, 3986154. Spadafora's Seafood Market Large, fresh selection of takeout fish and shellfish. 932 Haven, 398-6703. Tomatoes High-end fare and sushi. 9300 Amherst, Margate. 822-7535. Tuckahoe Inn Back Bay Cafe with live music, Boat Bar. 1 Harbor Road & Route 9, Beesley’s Point, 390-3322. Open year round. Uncle Bill’s Pancake House Legendary breakfasts, lunches. 2112 Asbury, 40th & West, 398-7393. Open year round. Voltaco’s Everything Italian. Sandwiches, dinners, sauces. 957 West, 399-0753. Yianni's Cafe Hot Bagels and More Greekinspired dishes. Two locations. 841 Asbury & 1735 Simpson, 391-1113. La Fontana Delicious Italian cuisine; outdoor dining. 5000 Landis Avenue, Sea Isle City; 486-6088;1 S. Commonwealth, Strathmere, 263-7700. Varsity Inn Breakfast, Lunch. Baked Jersey Tomato Soup - yum! 605 East 8th, 399-1500.

Open Every Day Serving • Lunch from 11:30am • Dinner from 4pm • Early Birds Daily 11:30am til 5pm • Sunday Morning Breakfast 9am - 12pm

É F A C Y A BACK B

Call toda book y to your Holi day Part y!

Casual Fa

mily Rest

n from 1p u S & t a S om 5pm • r f i r F d e W d - Sun e W ic s u M Live

Banquets

aurant

& Par ties

1 Harbor Road & Route 9, Beesley’s Point (Just outside Ocean City) 609-390-3322 • www.tuckahoeinn.com

- Open All Year Round -

Overlooking the Scenic Greate Egg Harbor Bay

Local Ocean

NOT -SO ADORABLE CREATURE OF THE MONTH

Spider Crab Photographed by Stef Godfrey

Also known as the portly spider crab or the ninespined spider crab, the common spider crab is a long-legged and slow-moving crustacean that covers itself in algae and small debris as a defense against predators. Spider crabs belong to a group known as "decorator crabs:" the crab's main defense against predation is ability to camouflage itself with various spines and tubercles, algae, debris and small invertebrates. When startled, it will wave its pincers over its head in a warning gesture. These crabs are sluggish and unaggressive scavengers with poor eyesight. Sensitive tasting and sensing organs located on the tips of its walking legs allow the common spider crab to identify food in the water or mud as it walks. It will often feed on large starfish. - chesapeakebay.net

cute If you snap a t, o sh re tu crea to nd se editor@ com ocnjmagazine.

>>>>•<<<< OCEAN CITY EMPLOYEES Sam Florio interviews a few hard workers around town

right now but I like it.

Franco Madrid, Drip n’ Scoop

Kayla Haberstroh, LEH Soap

Colleen Doucette, Yoasis

What are you up to during the off season? I live in Northfield. I have been working here for about a year. I basically just go to the gym, school and work

Where are you from? I am from Long Beach Island. I just moved here a few months ago.

How long have you been working here? I am actually kind of new. I have been working here for about a month.

Where do you go to school? I am currently going to ACCC to study health sciences. I would like to be a nutritionist. What advice would you give someone who eats too many Drip n Scoop Doughnuts? Hmm.. I would probably start them off with running a mile. At the gym I do a lot of compound movement workouts. Favorite thing on the menu? The Nitro Coffee is the best thing on the menu, or the s’mores doughnut. Cats or dogs? Dogs. I have a dog! He is a mix, and his name is Fuzzer. What TV show are you binging right now? Definitely The Walking Dead.

18 OCEAN CITY MAGAZINE

Really? What is the best place you’ve discovered in OC? I am so surprised by all of the little mom and pop shops around here, and I love them all. I just love the feel of it. Do you work here year-round? Yes I do. I go to Stockton University and I am studying business management. What do you want to do when you graduate? Well, I am a junior so I should probably figure that out! I am a global studies minor also. I feel like I have a lot of options. Cats or Dogs? I love dogs! My dog is a mix. His name is Clifford. What TV show are you binging right now? I just finished Game of Thrones. I stood in a three-hour line for the GoT themed bar in DC. I am a big fan! Favorite OC Boardwalk snack? Fudge Kitchen. The plain chocolate fudge is my favorite.

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2017

What are you doing outside of Yoasis? I am going to school at Stockton University and studying Business Management. Do you know what you want to do? I am planning on going to law school at Rutgers and studying corporate Law. So what is your favorite Yoasis combo? Cookies and cream yogurt with cookie dough and Oreo toppings. Cats or Dogs? Dogs, but I have a cat named Hazel... haha. What’s your favorite movie? Well, I love The Notebook because what girl doesn’t love The Notebook. I also am a Harry Potter nerd. I love all of the movies. Favorite thing to do in OC on a rainy day? Hmm.. probably eat the firecracker shrimp at Hula Grill.

In the Know with Ocean City Girl Welcome back and happy fall everyone. The 2017 summer season is over and our fall season is upon us. I love this town year round and while the sun, sand and surf of summer time has started fading away it leaves us brisk bay breezes, cool walks on the beach and crisp waves to celebrate nothing less than perfection year round. Now, it’s time to get ready for the harvest of fall festivities and the holiday happiness before year's end and first night fireworks to welcome in 2018! Let’s grab our apple cider and curl up on the bench by the boards and take a look at our last two questions for this season. Dear Ocean City Girl, Are there any celebrities or famous families from Ocean City? Signed, Stargazer Dear Stargazer, Thank you so much for writing in. There are several famous people who were born in our town as well as a few who came to visit. The three most famous celebs I know of who were born here are Gay Talese, Sammy Krost and Kurt Loder. Mr. Talese is a non-fiction writer who used to write for the New York Times and Esquire magazine. He is a 1949 grad of Ocean City High School, wrote for the Ocean City Sentinel-Ledger and is best known for his works on singer Frank Sinatra and baseball legend Joe DiMaggio. Kurt Loder is also a journalist and TV personality. Mr. Loder graduated Ocean City High School in 1963, was the editor of Rolling Stone magazine, served in the US Army and was on MTV News in the '80s. Sammy Krost is an Instagram star and NYU grad with many celebrity friends including singer Selena Gomez. Celebrities who have come to visit the island that I know... Guy Fieri and Grace Kelly. Guy Fieri from the Food Network made a trip to Piccini’s at 13th and West for his show Diners, Drive-ins and Dives. Grace Kelly and her family made Ocean City their summer home. She practically grew up here not just visiting for years, but her family had a home on the beach at 26th Street. Last but not least is Susan Adair from Crazy Susan’s Cookie Company at 13th and West. Susan had a reality TV show on Food Network called, “Tough Cookies”

Dear Ocean City Girl, I was wondering with all the happenings in the world today, are there any charities that give back to Ocean City? Signed, Charity Dear Charity, This was a great question and made me think; that’s always a good thing. We have many local charities who give back to our community, we also have tons of local businesses that work hard to provide for their community and friends and neighbors. Here are a few I found... Waves of Caring has an annual toy drive that started over 30 years ago to help less fortunate kids have a good Christmas if their family is unable to provide. They also branched out to create Holiday Helpings to provide food for needy families as well. Then we have the Ocean City Education Foundation which is a program that raises money to build and grow educational services for students that are enrolled in Ocean City's public schools. Finally, we have University of the Nations Student Mobilization Center of Youth With a Mission. This is a mission program for kids to meld their Christian backgrounds into their field of study in college and share that with those less fortunate in other areas of the world. If you want more info about this company you can visit their website at ywamocnj.org. There are also food banks, community closets, and many other charity groups. The Ocean City Fire Department also has its own charitable foundation that gives their money to local needs.

>>>> Have a question for Ocean City Girl? Email editor@ocnjmagazine.com

The Interview We tune in to see what's next for OC Pops Maestro Bill Scheible retirement and was selected out of a pool of 25 candidates. As the conductor, what was your vision for the Pops? When I was playing as a student, singers came to Ocean City to perform, but they had to pay for their own accommodations and earned practically no money. I felt like we needed to start a volunteer group, so I started Friends of Ocean City Pops. A big goal of the program was to raise money for accommodations, so performers could benefit financially from their performances here as well as having a successful gig. Have the goals of the Friends of the Pops evolved since its founding? The Friends of the Pops still raises money for accommodations, but now we are also branching out. This fundraising committee has allowed us to expand our musical library, as well as enriched the experience within the Music Pier. It’s helped us create the Broadway Series, the Children’s Lollipop Series, and most importantly, fund musical education in the surrounding area.

LIFETIME of experience and a great love of music have given Bill Scheible the privilege to be the conductor and artistic director of the Ocean City Pops. The maestro of the Pops has put on fantastically entertaining shows for 32 years, but now his era is coming to a close as he announces his retirement. Ocean City Magazine wanted to catch him to see what he has taken from that experience of a lifetime, and where he intends to go next. What initially got you into music? My dad introduced me to the trumpet. We played together in church. My brother and I joined the Philadelphia Boys Choir when I was 11. What are some necessary skills for being a maestro? You need the skills to understand music, but you have to enjoy variety. You have to be very open to exposing people to variety. I keep in mind to not think of it as a heavy job. It has to be a light and fun experience for the audience. How many instruments do you play? Trumpet is my main instrument, and I play a little piano. I can also play all the brass instruments enough to teach the kids in school. Where has your musical career taken you? When I was a boy in my church choir I travelled to a festival in Vienna and Prague. After college I played for a symphony choir in Venezuela that took me all over South America. How were you introduced to Ocean City Pops? My family always vacationed in Ocean City. The summer before I went to college, my dad heard there was an opening for a trumpet player. I auditioned with the conductor, John Warrington, and got in. I applied to the conductor position after the following conductor Frank Ruggieri announced his

20 OCEAN CITY MAGAZINE

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2017

What are some highlights of conducting for the Pops? I loved when we brought in (Broadway-star) Hugh Panaro. He was phenomenal in presentation. He connected with everyone for a terrific night. If you could learn an instrument, what would it be and why? Study more piano. I only studied a bit in college, but would like to go back. There is so much great music written just for piano. What is the most expensive piece of equipment you’ve bought? I once spent $300 on a trumpet mouth piece. I’m lucky with the trumpet being an inexpensive instrument. What did you want to be when you grew up? Did you always want to work with music? I thought of going into the ministry before I was involved in music. I was heavily involved in the church when I was a boy. Do you have children, and are they interested in music? I have a son, who is a professor of film critique in London. He played oboe, but was more interested in media and film studies. Who is your inspiration? A few teachers I had the privilege to study under when I was in high school – Sigmund Hering, a great trumpet arranger, as well as Jerry Schwartz, the first chair trumpet of the New York Orchestra. I was lucky to have on the trumpet some really fine teachers. Gilbert Johnson was also a huge influence in my life. What are your future plans? I want to study Spanish and Portuguese so I can better communicate with friends in Brazil. I was bitten by the travel bug when I was younger and love the cultures there. But I will also be going to Temple University in Philadelphia, my alma mater, to supervise the music program. - Text by Nick Matousch

Local Ocean November/December Events Food Cupboard and the Atlantic City Rescue Mission. For more information call 609-3652239. November 18 "EARLIER THAN THE BIRD” DOWNTOWN SHOPPING EXTRAVAGANZA 8am-12pm. Get out earlier than the bird and jump start your holiday shopping the weekend before Thanksgiving. Shop in your pajamas, early bird shopping specials.

November 3- 4 THE GREATER OCEAN CITY THEATRE COMPANY’S JUNIOR COMPANY PRESENTS PETER/WENDY Featuring students in 6th-12th grades. In this lyrical, atmospheric interpretation of Peter Pan, Jeremy Bloom strips the familiar story down to its emotional essence. A low-tech, inventive adaptation that pays homage to the darker themes of J.M. Barrie's original, Peter/Wendy will mesmerize audiences of all ages. Both shows at 7:30pm at the Ocean City Music Pier. Tickets are $10. To purchase call 609-399-6111 or at oceancityvacation.com/boxoffice. November 4 TRAIL OF TWO CITIES- RUN/WALK Over the 9th Street Bridge from Ocean City to Somers Point. Registration 7am, Run/Walk at 8am. November 4-5 QUIET FESTIVAL A new take on our celebration of quiet things. November 11 VETERANS DAY PROGRAM 11am at Ocean City Tabernacle, 550 Wesley Avenue. November 11-12 HOLIDAY CELEBRATION FINE ARTS AND CRAFTS Over 75 fine artists, photographers and handcrafters at the Ocean City Music Pier on the Boardwalk between 8th & 9th Streets. Hand crafted, artisan made items of every description from Christmas trees, ceramics, American Doll Clothes, jewelry to stained glass, candles, pet treats and art that can be framed while you browse. Gourmet food treats are yours for the tasting. Every offering is handmade in the USA by the seller. Your $3 admission benefit the Ocean City

November 18-19 CHRISTMAS ART AND HANDCRAFT FESTIVAL 10am-5pm. Over 75 fine crafters, artists, photographers and gourmet food specialists at the Ocean City Music Pier. Everything for the holidays including magnificent wreaths, floral decorations, jewelry, custom gift baskets, wooden toys, glass, blankets, metal art, dog and cat apparel and treats, floral décor, soaps and lotions. Every item is made in the USA by the seller. Your $3 admission benefits the Atlantic City Rescue Mission, Ocean City Food Cupboard and the American Red Cross. For more information, call 609-365-2239. November 18-19, 25-26 FREE HORSE & CARRIAGE RIDES Noon-3pm, in front of City Hall, 9th & Asbury Avenue. November 24 CHRISTMAS IN THE DOWNTOWN “Our Miracle on Asbury Avenue” 2-5pm. Join the merchants and Chamber in kicking off an oldfashioned downtown Christmas. December 1 CHRISTMAS PARADE 6pm on Asbury Avenue from 6th-11th Street. Registration information at www.ocnj.us/ Christmas-Parade. December 2-3 TRAIN SHOW Music Pier, Moorlyn Terrace & Boardwalk, 10am-4pm, Saturday and Sunday. Admission is $3 for adults and $1 for children. For more information, call 609-399-6111. December 2-3, 9-10, 16-17, 23 FREE HORSE & CARRIAGE RIDES Noon-3pm, in front of City Hall, 9th and Asbury Avenue.

December 31 FIRST NIGHT NEW YEAR'S EVE CELEBRATION A complete schedule of entertainment leading up to fireworks at midnight. January 1, 2018 FIRST DAY AT THE BEACH 2pm at the Music Pier, Boardwalk & Moorlyn Terrace. Featuring Ocean City’s first dip in the ocean for the New Year. January 1, 2018 5K BOARDWALK RUN 1pm on the Ocean City Boardwalk. For more information on these events, call 1-800-BEACH.

Don’t Miss Your Chance to See Santa!

Breakfast with Santa from 8-11am

November 25 & December 9 Sunrise Cafe November 26 & December 10 - Arlene's December 3 & 16 - Yianni’s December 2, 17 & 23 Jon and Patty's

Photos with Santa November 25-26 December 2, 3, 9, 10, 16, 17, 23 Noon-3pm at the Music Pier. For more information call, 1-800-BEACH-NJ

Local Ocean Snapshot

Fall Block Party

22 OCEAN CITY MAGAZINE

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2017

Opposite page clockwise from top left: Kaia Chew, Cove Chew, Darrah Ostrander, Lily Bechtold; Grace Thompson and Madison Majors; Debbie Moreland, Connie Boens and Leslie Clarke; Wyatt, Benji & Graham Tolson; Tara Puhalski, Shane Matthews, Marshall Young, Kristina Young, Sabrina Marziano and Aaron Palermo; Cate Chamberlain. This page clockwise from top left: Ann Condella, Bria Condella, Liz Stamm & Anna Stamm; Greg, Sarah & Emma Rodriquez; Alexis & Alanna Okeefe and MacKenzie Thurlow; Taylor and Stephanie Wittstock; Hannah Bromhead, Hope Bromhead, Grace Bromhead and Samantha Anderson; Estelle Gimbel, Shea DeMarco, Kierstyn Kuehnle and Riley Robinson. Photos by Kerri Janto. 23

Local Ocean Snapshot

Clockwise from top: Grace Dunn, Owen Dunn & Milana Dunn; Jonathan Dzwonar, Jeremiah Johnson, Jeff Pinkerton & Bob Kern; Christa Carideo & Nickolas Cardini; Tony Polcini & Sean Dwyer; Luisa Rivera, Ethan Stokes, Elizabeth Murray; Hannah Meck, Derek Meck, Truman Horst, Cliff Horst & Ella Horst. Photos by Kerri Janto.

24 OCEAN CITY MAGAZINE

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2017

On the Boardwalk

Clockwise from top: Jim Kolea, Ollie Hudak, Jack Kolea & James Kolea; Jim & Debi and Chase Hannigan; Eryn Mera, Adeline Mera, Maisie Mera & Emily Fredrick; Jim, Lily & Katie Boyle; Laura Lynch, Tegan Baumann, Julie Brown; Mark Cohen, Jane Burgos, Skylar Cohen & Jill Schrader. Photos by Kerri Janto.

Local Ocean It’s History Right: In 1913, Howard S. Stainton bought his first store seen here on the left with the awnings next to the Ocean City Title and Trust Company. Below: A full page ad in the July 3, 1940, Ocean City Sentinel-Ledger told customers what they could expect at the new store.

Stainton’s Department Store

Stainton’s store prospered throughout the Great Depression and continued to prosper even with the opening of enclosed shopping malls - it continues to this day, now known as Stainton’s Gallery of Shops.

26 OCEAN CITY MAGAZINE

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2017

By Fred Miller

N APRIL 13, 1913, Howard S. Stainton bought Emma Morris Corson’s dry goods store at 808 Asbury Avenue. It was the beginning of what would become the largest department store in Cape May County. The store was always busy in the summer, but thanks to Stainton’s business sense, the store did well the rest of the year. He bought 810 Asbury Avenue in 1916 to meet the demands of the people. Christmas season was as busy as summer as people came to shop. Stainton advertised, “Weatherman predicts that cooler weather will follow. Warm underwear, hosiery, etc., will be needed. Our stock offers and unusually fine selection.” The December 7, 1922 Ocean City Sentinel advertisement reported the store would be open every evening until Christmas. The ad told of good deals on leather goods, stockings and neckwear. “In the eyes of men, neckties hold first place as Christmas gifts. And because this is true we have arranged a sale which should bring every person in Ocean City here for Xmas neckwear.” Stainton’s store continued to prosper even during the Great Depression, and he knew he needed a bigger building. The headline of the July 3, 1940, Ocean City Sentinel reported, “Resort’s Big New Department Store

Stainton’s Annex on West Avenue included Toyland.

The three-story department store opened on July 3, 1940.

Formally Opens Today; Climaxes Merchandising Career Begun Here 28 Years Ago.” A full page ad in the newspaper told people what to expect: “STAINTON’S new department store is dedicated to sound principle of offering the finest quality merchandise at reasonable prices, with an efficient, dependable and courteous service.” In 1947, the Stainton’s Annex opened behind the department store on West Avenue. It carried furniture, bedding, floor coverings and appliances. It also included Stainton’s Toyland where Santa would greet the children and listen to what they wanted for Christmas. Many wanted the Lionel train they saw displayed in the front of the store. Stainton’s continued to prosper even with the opening of enclosed shopping malls. The biggest blow to the business came on June 24, 1979 with the death of Howard S. Stainton. The Ocean City Sentinel-Ledger on June 26 reported: “An era came to an end in Ocean City at 4:23 p.m.

Above: This ad, in the December 7, 1922 Ocean City Sentinel, reported the store was open every evening until Christmas.

Left: Howard S. Stainton showing a Sunbeam Electric Blanket to interested shoppers.

Sunday with the death of Howard S. Stainton.” The article reported on the 93-year-old legend: “True to form Stainton, despite his failing health, could be seen walking the floors of his department store at 8th Street and Asbury Avenue practically right up to the day before he died, familiar to those residents and visitors who looked forward to seeing him in the store in his black suit, black hat, white shirt and black tie.” You can still get what you want at Stainton’s Gallery of Shops.

Local Ocean

SCOTT TROXEL By Lauren Avellino Turton

From filmmaking student to furniture salesman to marketing guru, Scott Troxel’s first love has always been artwork. The 40-something’s now pursuing his passion full time, and creating for collectors both near and far - from the Jersey Shore to Europe and Canada. Scott’s road to success within the art world was a windy one. The Montgomery County, PA native attended Temple University where he earned a filmmaking degree. “Its funny, in high school I was an art major, and began moving in that direction in college, but I had some bad experiences with some professors,” he said. “My roommate was a radio, TV and film major, and used to bring his cameras home. I became intrigued by moving images, and the visual creativity and accessibility of it. I could just go out on the street, shoot it, then edit it my way. That was very appealing.” Once he graduated, Scott didn’t pursue video production, but instead went to work in the furniture industry. “Then I got a job in the Ocean City area with a wetsuit company. I handled sales, brand management, and product development. I gained experience in industrial design, and creating designs for retail. I’d been married and raising two kids by then, and I was satisfied with my work. Developing graphics and packaging provided me with a great creative outlet.” Four years ago, Scott came across an article featuring Lance Balderson, a Philly native, now based in Upper Township. Balderson has become an esteemed artist, with work on permanent display at the world-famous Philadelphia Museum of Art. He now teaches art out of his home, and is a member of the Ocean City Arts Center and Ocean City Fine Arts League. “I started going to some of his classes and painting with Lance. He encouraged me to enter my work into the League’s monthly competition, which I did. My return back to art just snowballed from there. Call it a sort of ‘mid-life

28 OCEAN CITY MAGAZINE

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2017

crisis,’ if you will,” he laughed. “Art was something that was always within me, but I buried it for a while. I can remember during family trips, always dragging everyone to the art museums in whatever city we were visiting, New York, Chicago, wherever.” As he threw himself into his artwork, he was still working his other job full time. “I’ve been fortunate enough to work from home, so during the day, I’d tackle my marketing, branding, and graphic design tasks, then work on pieces of art at night,” he said. At first, Scott would paint on canvas using abstract impressionism as his inspiration. “It’s kind of like Jackson Pollock’s method,” he explained. “I start to paint, and see where it takes me. The process determines the outcome, and I just paint until it’s finished. If I don’t like something, I can paint over it and begin again.” Craving a new and different challenge, Scott moved into wall sculptures. “My neighbor is a contractor in Ocean City, and I noticed he would throw away scraps of wood, so I’d take it. He has a professional woodshop, and taught me how to use the equipment. I found it a really cool process, much different than painting. That led me to mixed media,” he said. “I love the physicality of crafting wall sculptures, the cutting, the painting.” Scott’s creative process is a calculated one, he says. “I sit back and look at the materials I have. I use a lot of exotic woods, like mahogany and walnut. I get a mental visual, which gets the ball rolling,” he explained. “Then, I sit down and , using Photoshop or Illustrator, I come up with the concept. Call it a ‘schematic’ or ‘blueprint’ which maps out the shapes and colors. I print it out, and start cutting away. The finished piece ends up being about 60 to 70 percent of the original plans. That’s where the artistic part comes out, to work on the fly.” Modern art is Scott’s favorite, he says, and that inspires his wall sculptures. “It’s interesting. Modern art can be rustic when you combine materials. I appreciate the organic quality of the woods, and the modernness of the pure white, man made composite decking. The inherent texture of wood, combined with paint and other man made materials, allow me to explore the concepts of old and young, worn versus new, organic versus man made, and the past versus the present and future. I look to capture a sense of time in my work and often combine the feeling of different eras within a single piece. ”

Scott says he has a few select pieces that are most significant to him. The Voyager series, he said, are transitional pieces that ultimately opened his eyes, and gave him confidence that art could become his full time career. Voyager4 is a large mixed-media wall sculpture, constructed from two layers of MDF board with solid African mahogany, wood stain, and acrylic paint. Both futuristic and retro, Voyager4 is reminiscent of the furniture designs of the Mid-Century Modern Art Movement. “Feedback from curators and the art community was so positive,” he said. “Internally when I’m usually finished a piece, I feel I’m 90 percent there, but it could be better. “In the Voyager pieces, I say ‘it couldn’t be better. That I’ve achieved what I wanted to achieve.’ I find I’m learning more and more the more work I complete.” Scott attributes much of his financial success and widespread popularity to online sales, coupled with his extensive marketing and branding experience. “I have a unique choice of medium,” he explained. “Not as many artists use mixed media, but more so watercolor. That definitely helped propel my business.” Online art galleries, including UGallery and Saatchi Art, have given Scott’s business quite the boost and recognition, so once given global publicity, Crate and Barrel got on board with Scott’s work. “UGallery formed a relationship with Crate and Barrel, and placed 15 to 20 pieces of mine on their online gallery. They send out emails all over the world, from San Francisco to Bangkok - anyone can buy my pieces. Crate and Barrel’s main goal was to bring the art gallery experience to the comfort of collectors’ own homes, and to feature custom made works of art that aren’t mass produced.” Scott also works regularly with several local interior design firms on custom commissions for homes in Cape May and Atlantic County areas. The firms include Dompierre in Marmora, Surroundings in Northfield, and Stone Harbor’s Summer House Design Group. His wall sculpture House of Cards2 was a custom piece for a beach front home in Stone Harbor, commissioned by Summer House Design Group. Custom commissions are available through both those companies, or Scott directly. Find him on the web at scotttroxelart.com or on Instagram @scotttroxel.art. Scott’s artwork is also available at a host of local galleries, including Nashville North Studios in Linwood, Ocean City Fine Arts League, and The Holtzman Gallery at Ocean Club in Atlantic City.

THE LOOK

30 OCEAN CITY MAGAZINE

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2017

Winter is for style and comfort... Head

into this holiday season with confidence and a classic, cool look Kelly Tjoumakaris is wearing a racerback camisole by Cami NYC, Jude Skinny jeans by Black Orchid Denim, and vegan leather jacket by Dex. All from Seagrass Boutique. Lily Tjoumakaris is wearing jeans and a top by Joules from Sea Oats. Photo by Sam Florio. Styling by Sam Florio and Kevin Heck owner of Seagrass Boutique.

Gift Guide!

NOVEMBER / DECEMBER MUST HAVES

1. Seventh Street 720 Asbury 609-398-7070

All things Skaterboy... or girl.

32 OCEAN CITY MAGAZINE

2. Jillyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 1048 Boardwalk ShopJillys.com

Get yourself your own custom shirt... what will it say?

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2017

3. Henrys 1236 Boardwalk 609-398-4238

You never know what treasure is inside.

Sports bra photo courtesy of Swoob

4. Yes She Can 30 Tuckahoe Road 609-478-3266 Now you can be hot... and hot while you workout.

1. Bohemian Mama 741 Asbury 609-938-6466 Kid poof shoes are faboo... and these boho bags beg to be brought back to your giftee.

2. Sneaker Shop 704 Asbury 609-391-5223 Treat yo self or your bestie to some cool new gear.

3. Seagrass Boutique 409 E. 8th Street 609-938-2398 These shirts speak for themselves. The language is love.

November/ December MUST HAVES 3

1 1. Artisan 918 Asbury 609-398-5661

The perfect gifts for your kids and their teacher.

34 OCEAN CITY MAGAZINE

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2017

2. LEH Soap 937 Asbury 609-938-2222

Give men this charcoal soap or beard wash. It's a win win.

3. Blue Lotus 813 Asbury 609-391-5210

Rainbow fluffy soap and a bubble mask... that can only mean one thing. Bathtime!

1. Island Beach Gear 2 W 9th Street 609-788-3836

2. Animal House 705 Asbury 609-398-3771

You need mermaid fins. Repeat after me... I need mermaid fins. And a retro speaker for the beach.

I'm pretty sure your dog has already eared this page for the unicorn fleece. And perhaps these large stuffies.

It’s the Best Time of the Year!

Blue Lotus

Find great gifts for any age for all budgets

Gypsea Inspired Fashion Handmade Sea Glass Jewelry Saltwater Bubbles Body Line Aromatherapy and Smudge Handmade Jewelry Plants and More

813 Asbury Avenue, Ocean City, NJ 08226

609.391.5210

Shop all day, all week online!

For the Holiday! SINCE 1972

Two Locations • Twice the Selection! 1236 Boardwalk • 952 Boardwalk

Facebook: Blue Lotus www.bluelotusocnj.com Instagram: bluelotusoc

ART ON ASBURY A GALLERY of local Artists featuring fine art in all mediums Monthly Exhibits - Classes Kids Create - Thursdays 10am-noon

608 Asbury Ave. Ocean City, NJ 609-814-0608 www.oceancityfineartsleague.org

Open Daily

Spirit Jersey ALEX AND ANI Authentic Apparel

Made exclusively for Ocean City and for Henry's Also available online at www.henrysoc.com

If you know Ocean City, you know Henry’s!

November/ December MUST HAVES 2

1. Flying Carp 225 West 609-741-7717

A Chirpie Bird, Mini Gurgle Pot and a travel wine glass that's actual glass? Gift the trifecta and you'll be the best gift giver ever.

Think Holiday Gift Giving

2. Red Tulip 920 Asbury 609-399-0155

These stylish magnetic bracelets are darling and can help relive joint pain... I've never met a more useful piece of jewelry. Bravo.

Artisan

We Wrap Everything!

BODY PRODUCTS

3. Fine Arts League 608 Asbury 609-814-0308

Small bowls are the perfect gift... useful and cute. Just like you.

4. Cricket Box 810 Asbury 609-391-0055

The Jingle pillow is for my couch. It was such a good couch this year. And the Cats Meow is for me too. I was good too! - Stefanie Godfrey

Daily til 6pm Sundays 5pm

 SOAP SHOP 

Handmade Soaps • Facial & Body Products Natural ~ Organic ~ Vegan & Gluten Free Men’s Soaps & Shave Products Bath Salts & Bombs

Ocean City’s

Soap Shop

Wedding Favors ~ Bridal Shower Gifts 9 1 8 Asb ury Av en ue • O c e a n C i t y, N J • 6 0 9 - 3 9 8 - 5 6 6 1

Fisherman’s Cove

Hello Shopping Read the Shopping Section in the Welcome to Ocean City Guidebook for details, photos, brands, and more about your favorite shop. Or your soon-to-be favorite.

Purchase or read online at www.ocnjmagazine.com

36 OCEAN CITY MAGAZINE

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2017

A True One-Stop Shop With Everything You Need For The Beach Lifestyle

Cruise season

apparel & aCCessories

lidays Happy How and a Year! barkin’ New

Brands For Men, woMen & kids! Coolibar prAna

Salt Life Hang Ten

Baggu Sperry

Oofos Drycase

Havaiana’s... & More!

Footwear SPF Clothing Yoga & Fitness Hats • CoverUps Sunglasses • Bags

705 Asbury, OC • 609-398-3771

Capt. Scraps Attic & Capt. Scraps Antiques gifts, collectibles, jewelry, artwork, garden decor & more

sHop online 24/7!

Always buying gold, silver, & vintage items. We do estate sales!

3071 Route 9, Seaville, NJ • 609-624-0111

* 602 Washington Avenue, Woodbine, NJ • 609-861-3800

retail loCation open Year round MondaY - saturdaY witH Free onsigHt parking 2 W. 9th St., Ocean City, NJ 08226 • 609.788.3836 • IslandBeachGear.com

The hardest part is picking The hardest part is picking your favorite... The Thehardest hardestpart partisispicking pickingyour yourfavorite... favorite...

. .i.t e . . . e r t i o r v r of a uv ry of a u o g y ckin k ipnig c i s i p !i t o n ! n t pi sa r t d o r t a t a i r s p d e ra yT Ta d ehsatr d M y r a e e a h p h M AeC a The T Cap A BEING MADE!

See it

The hard

favorite...

HEN CN Open Year Round. T I E K H M ayl lw h e r e ! ETC G r e el t t D I S n U ahli p a n e ! Ea s h iKnS tgrteoeWt eMsCandy Your LD1F3GWHoliday r A N ywhe n • I U n o 5 a t F G m g & p I o n i i c e h . L R A v e n u W a shhe n s• W e s OIN a c h A 513e k i t cHeadquarters! TOHRE7I2G 8 B ee n u e• &f u d ge n s . c o m

v h T HE72880B0e-a2ec3h- •FAu df gued g e k i t c

CHEN

Mall anywhere!

The Original Fudg The Original Fudge Kitchen The TheOriginal OriginalFudge FudgeKitchen Kitchen Web

s it e

s it e Web

b Fa c e

Website

80 1-800 -23-FUDGE Fa c e

800 d g Boardwalk, Ocean City

-Fu 0 -23

ook

book

1-800 -23-FUDGE 1-800 -23-FUDGE

800 Boardwalk, OceanTHE City

(Across from the Music Pier!)

1-800 -23-FUDGE fudgekitc hens.com 72 fudgekitc hens.com We ship any where! 800-23-F

800 Boardwalk, Ocean CityCity 800 Boardwalk, Ocean fudgekitc hens.com fudgekitc hens.com

Facebook

We ship any where! We ship any where!

Shopping OC Store Guide DOWNTOWN

HOME GOODS l JEWELRY

Shop Ocean City! OC’s Downtown is ready for you! Shop. Dine. Relax. 6th-14th streets on Asbury Avenue.

Blind Express 916 Asbury, 399-9940. Butterfly Boutique 1125 Asbury, 391-0812.

APPAREL l SHOES Alyse’s Shoes 951 Asbury, 391-8859.

August Heart 715 Asbury, 399-1565.

Blue Lotus Eclectic, Gypsea-inspired finds for home and body. 813 Asbury, 391-5210. Bohemian Mama 741 Asbury, 938-6466. Bowfish Kids Adorable children’s fashion. 956 Asbury, 938-1901. Flying Carp Clothing Gallery 745 Asbury, 391-1546. Could Be Yours 716 Asbury, 703-4457. Colette 900 Asbury, 525-0911. Donna Gay Dillon 725 Asbury, 399-0082. Pappagallo 744 Asbury, 398-4009. Gatherings/Bag Room 700 Asbury, 938-0691. Sunseekers 751 Asbury, 399-1640. Ta Dah Shops on the nine and ten block of Asbury, 398-6771. 7th Street Surf Shop Clothing, sunglasses, surfboards. 720 Asbury, 398-7070. Sea Oats 710 Asbury, 398-8399. The Red Tulip Lovely jewelry and accessories. 920 Asbury, 399-0155. Seagrass Boutique Chic womens clothing. 409 8th, 938-2398 Stainton’s 810 Asbury, 545-8681. ART GALLERIES Fine Arts League Local art available for purchase. 608 Asbury, 814-0308. BEAUTY Lindsy James Salon 945 Asbury, 525-9900. Artisan Body Products Handmade soaps, facial/body products. 918 Asbury, 398-5661. BOOKS l CDS l OFFICE Sun Rose Words & Music Books Music, CDs, office supplies. 756 Asbury, 399-9190. DEPARTMENT STORES B&B 827 Asbury, 391-0046. FLORIST Spinning Wheel 858 Asbury, 398-1157.

38 OCEAN CITY MAGAZINE

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2017

P. Francis 846 Asbury, 399-5570. Stingray Lovely home accents. 854 Asbury, 399-0660. Cricket Box Your favorite store at the shore. 810 Asbury, 391-0055.

PET SHOP Animal House Everything for your pet including Made-in-the-USA products. 705 Asbury, 398-3771. SPORTS l ATHLETIC WEAR Harbor Outfitters 625 Asbury, 938-0175. Sneaker Shop 704 Asbury, 391-5223. Rock Tackle 711 Asbury, 938-9285. SWEETS AND TREATS Rauhauser’s 721 Asbury, 399-1465. Cake Studio 1046 Asbury, 231-1851. City2Shore Gourmet Balsamic vinegars, infused olive oils, more. 709 Asbury, 5250339. THINGS TO DO Glazed Over 704 Asbury, 398-8880. VARIETY l BEACH ITEMS Hoy’s 5 & 10 7th & Asbury, 398-Hoys. Island Beach Gear Stop by on your way to the beach! 9th & Bay, 788-3836.

BOARDWALK APPAREL Jilly’s T-Shirt Factory Get your Phillies at Jilly’s and lots more. 762, 936 and 1048 Boardwalk, 385-1234. BEAUTY LEH Soap Handmade soaps and body products. 1312 Boardwalk. New location on Asbury open year round. HOME GOODS l JEWELRY Henry’s OCs Landmark Jeweler OC hook bracelet, Alex & Ani, more. 1236 Boardwalk, (800) 214-4435. RENTALS Surf Buggy 8th & 12th on the Boardwalk. Cribs, strollers, TVs, coolers, bikes. 976-5679.

SURF SHOP/SUNGLASSES Heritage Surf Shop Big selection surf fashions and gear. 14th & Boardwalk, 391SURF. SWEETS AND TREATS Fudge Kitchen Candy that melts in your mouth. 800 Boardwalk, 398-7457. Mallon's Sticky buns, donuts, and more! 1340 Bay, 399-5531. Shriver’s Salt Water Taffy Taffy, fudge, candy. 9th and Boardwalk, 399-0100. Shriver’s Gelato Only gelato on Boards. 9th and Boardwalk, 399-0100. VARIETY/BEACH ITEMS Jilly’s $1 Store One dollar! 1044 Boardwalk, 399-1234.

BAY/WEST AVENUE & SIDE STREETS BIKES Tuckahoe Bike Shop Sales, service and rentals. Nice guys too. 1214 West Avenue, 398-9700. RENTALS Relax Concierge Rent linens, and more online and at 232 West, 601-5077. SURF Heritage Surf Shop Big selection surf fashions and gear. 744 West, 398-6390. HOME GOODS l JEWELRY Flying Carp Gift Gallery Jewelry, cards, gift, home decor. 225 West, 741-7717.

ON THE WAY TO OC SPORTS TackleDirect The finest in fishing tackle and value. 6825 Tilton, EHT, 788-3819. Tuckahoe Bike Shop Modern bikes, old-fashioned service. 2151 Route 50, Tuckahoe, 628-0101. ANTIQUES/GIFTS Capt Scraps Antiques, gifts, jewelry. 3071 Rte 9, 624-0111.

Asbury AVE. 6-14th • OVEr 100 shOps & cAfés

Downtown for the holiDays November 18 • 8am - noon

December 1 • 6pm

shop in your pJs.

Asbury Avenue 6th to 11th streets

EarliEr than thE bird Shopping Specials, Prizes and Discounts! Noon-3pm Free Horse & Carriage Rides & Free Photos with Santa!

November 24 • 2-5pm

“Our MiraclE On asbury avEnuE”

Christmas in the Downtown november 25

christMas ParadE December 31

First night nEw yEars EvE cElEbratiOn

For details call 1-800-BeachNJ or visit firstnightocnj.com

January 1 • noon-3pm

First day shOPPing sMall businEss saturday Extravaganza Shop local. Shop small. Downtown Shopping Specials. Free Horse & Carriage Rides.

Breakfast with Santa

Every Saturday & Sunday-8am-11:30am Saturday, 11/25-suNrisE cAfé, 1200 Asbury Sunday, 11/26-arlene’s on asbury, 624 Asbury Saturday, 12/2-Jon & patty’s coffee bar & bistro, 637 Asbury Sunday, 12/3-yiANNi’s cAfé, 841 Asbury Saturday, 12/9-suNrisE cAfé, 1200 Asbury Sunday, 12/10-arlene’s on asbury, 624 Asbury Saturday, 12/16- yiANNi’s cAfé, 841 Asbury Sunday, 12/17- Jon & patty’s coffee bar & bistro, 637 Asbury Saturday, 12/23-Jon & patty’s coffee bar & bistro, 637 Asbury

EvEry saturday & sunday starting nOv. 18 at city hall FrEE hOrsE & carriagE ridEs bEginning at nOOn!

rewarD eVeryone on your “nice” list A Downtown Ocean City Card available at the city hall welcome center & route 52 welcome center.

DownloaD the new ocean city Vacation mobile app for special offers anD upDates!

Shopping OC

TRENDS FLYING CARP

Flying Carp returns to Ocean City.

AURA ROSSI has resurrected the beloved Flying Carp Gift Gallery in a new location, but with a similar spirit. Her sister, Lisa Fuschillo, opened the Flying Carp on Asbury in 2006, after working in Nada Conway’s original Flying Carp Clothing Gallery for about a decade. There, Lisa took over more and more of the jewelry and gifts part of the business, until she eventually split off and started her own store. Nada’s clothing store, which she opened in 1987, continues at 745 Asbury Avenue. But Lisa closed her store the winter after Hurricane Sandy, for what she described as a combination of reasons. “She did offer to me to take it over,” Laura said. “I wasn’t really feeling it was the right time. My kids were younger then. I had just taken on a management position at the veterinary hospital, so timing just didn’t feel right.” Years passed before that timing felt right. Laura opened the newest version of the Flying Carp for Memorial Day weekend this year, at 225 West Avenue, a spot she readily admits is off the beaten path for Ocean City retail. She said she talked it over with her sister, who said the foot traffic downtown was not as important as the dedicated regular customers. Being on West, in a block that mixes retail, residential and medical offices, means a bigger store for cheaper rent, and she sees potential in the site. “I’m kind of drawn to something that’s untapped or that some people might be a little nervous to do. But I do have to say I would not be here without Barefoot Market,” she said. Jennifer Bailey, who has operated several cafes in Ocean City, opened her coffee house and market across the street from the new site of the Flying Carp several years ago, drawing customers away from the beaten paths of the Boardwalk and Downtown. “I’m not this trailblazing pioneer. If she wasn’t here, I don’t think I would have considered it.” Carp regulars are ecstatic, Laura said, and want

40 OCEAN CITY MAGAZINE

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2017

Laura Rossi

to know what’s coming to the block next. Part of her reason for opening the store, she said, was that she felt like there was a void in Ocean City without it. When she’d want to buy a special gift, a card or an unusual piece of jewelry, she thought there wasn’t anything that exactly fit the bill. “I worked alongside of Lisa when she had the Flying Carp. I was mostly behind the scenes and filled in when she was out of the country,” Laura said. “I enjoyed it and got to know her customers.” She adds that she doesn’t like to use the word customers, suggesting there was a stronger relationship with the people who shopped at the Flying Carp. “I’m not just selling you a necklace. I don’t know, I’m selling you a little bit of everything,” she said. For her first summer, she included many of the artists and brands that did well for Lisa. “I went with a handful of lines that were

mainstays for the Carp. A lot of artists that made one-of-a-kind pieces that did really well,” she said. “And then peppered in my personality into the rest. “I wanted to open the Carp like it closed yesterday, with a little bit of my flair.” So what’ different? “I think I’m a little bit more rustic. We’re both into that one-of-a kind thing,” she said. Through the interview, a steady stream of Jerry Garcia music wafts from a speaker, and there are occasional interruptions by another change from the old Flying Carp. Zen, Laura’s amiable and imperturbable German shepherd, occasionally requests some attention. She said so far, everyone has loved the dog. “They love him. They come to see him and they’re upset when he’s not here, which is rare. I think he makes people comfortable,” she said. “Tons of people on vacation that don’t have their pets. It just gives you that little bit of dog hair on your clothes that you miss.” One of the customers in the store, visiting Ocean City from the Midwest with her friend, adds that she thinks he’s beautiful.

The Flying Carp Gift Gallery is located at 225 West Avenue.

Laura still works with Cape Veterinary Hospital, where she’s worked for about seven years, and she still does some dog training, something she’s done for more than 20. She and her husband, Ryan Hickey, live offshore with their two daughters, three dogs, a rabbit and a flock of chickens. “They all have names,” she said. The family eats the eggs, but the chickens are safe. Laura and one of her daughters are vegetarians. She said when one of the hens slows down in her laying, they offer encouragement. “Come on, girls.” Her daughters, Lilly and Sofia, are another reason she reconsidered the store, Laura said. “Having a 14-year-old and a 17-year-old daughter, I wanted to show them anything’s possible. You’re not stuck in a certain career,” she said. Opening a store seems like the opposite end of the career spectrum to her from her work in the veterinary hospital or as a trainer. Laura expects Christmas to be a big season at the store. One item that’s done great through the summer is a bird-shaped bottle topper that chirps as wine pours though it. They can be included with a bottle of wine for a more special gift. Called a Chirpy Top, they sell for $25. “I can’t keep them in stock,” she said. “It’s made by the Gurgle Pot people. Of course, everyone knows gurgle pots.” The fish-shaped ceramic pitchers have long been a signature piece at the Flying Carp. When filled with water, it makes a loud gurgling noise when the water is poured out, to the endless amusement of kids and most adults at dinner parties. “That’s been killer this summer. As you can see, it’s done well for me, too. I only have two left. They have been great. They’re just kind of timeless.” A melamine platter showing a colorful map of New Jersey has been very popular. They are made by a company that manufactures dinnerware for yachts, she said, so they are unbreakable. She’s also stocked kitchen boas, worn in the kitchen instead of a towel over the shoulder, they allow a cook to hold warm dishes or to wipe her hands. Plus, they’re fun, Laura said. She had a

display stand with boas printed with “Will cook for wine.” “It’s a really great gift, as a housewarming or a hostess gift,” she said. The Kitchen Boa sells for $24, and it’s $38 for the platter. For trends in jewelry, Laura says big, bold, colorful pieces are in. She mentioned one of the artists she carries in the shop, Angela Duffin, as a good example of someone making dramatic, color pieces. - Text and photos by Bill Barlow

Our NEW SHOP along OC’s Asbury Avenue is OPEN YEAR ROUND

937 Asbury, Ocean City (609) 938-2222 • lehsoap.com 41

Shopping OC

IN THE BIZ

Kennedy Custom Upholstery In Ocean City, an outpost of old-school workmanship Text and photos by Bill Barlow

EARDED, with a knot of long hair and a surf shop T-shirt, Trevor Kennedy may seem like a surprising standard bearer for old school craftsmanship. “I’ve never met anybody my age that has my experience, because I learned an old-school trade,” he said. He and his wife, Rebecca, are sitting on a custom sofa in the Kennedy Custom Upholstery shop at 3314 Simpson Avenue, in an incongruous retail outpost off 34th Street called Trader’s Lane. They opened the storefront in 2011, with Trevor’s workshop next door, after launching the business from the garage of their Somers Point home. “I’ve been doing it my whole life. I grew up in the upholstery business with my stepdad,” he said. “I was 16 when I got my first job, and I actually collected the check from the customer.” Learning that way, he gained extensive experience, while someone made sure things were done right. As he put it, he didn’t have to make every mistake, because someone had already made them for him. “But you really have the breadth of knowledge, that you can do anything that comes your way,” added Rebecca, at the start of a conversation about their business, and some of what’s been lost in a disposable culture. “Sometimes, because of his age, people think he hasn’t been doing it that long.” Trevor started helping out when he was still a child. Now 37, he has decades of experience in the trade. His stepfather’s Salem County business specialized in antique restorations, sometime rebuilding an antique chair from a box of pieces. As a surfer, he came to the shore to be closer to the waves. “I always dreamed about having a shop here.” Before he got to that point, he spent two years working in marine upholstery, outfitting boats. He said he’s done it all at one point or another. He no longer works with boat cushions or does auto work, though. “Can I do it? Yes. Have I done it? Yeah. I grew up doing airplanes, cars. My dad said no to nothing. We did everything,” Trevor said. In their business, they focus on interior furniture, both reupholstering pieces and creating new pieces.

42 OCEAN CITY MAGAZINE

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2017

The repair work is often on sentimental pieces, a chair that was Grandmom’s favorite. Trevor said customers often then want a sofa to match it. They’ve made a connection with a furniture builder they say still works the old way. “We found a niche in the market,” Rebecca said. “They couldn’t find new furniture on the market that was built as well as things that they had previously thrown out.” The Kennedys are working with a builder that still uses kilndried wood and screwed-in corner blocks, hand ties the springs, and offers the attention to detail Trevor said he needs to ensure the piece will often last for decades. “It’s the type of manufacturing processes for furniture that people were used to 25 years ago,” Rebecca said. Aside from automobiles, most people have gotten out of the habit of getting things fixed. For many purchases, it’s just not practical. It might take an hour to mend a torn shirt that can be replaced for $20, and for digital devices, few people have a chance of doing anything but making things worse. Besides, the new model will be released soon anyway. In Ocean City, a few places still make repairs to household items. Frank’s Shoe Clinic, Frank Longo’s shoe shop at 10th and Simpson, comes to mind, and Ulmer’s Appliance Shop at 3130 Asbury. But those have each been in business for decades. Trevor sees a market for good craftsmanship and design, which

>>>> TAKE A SEAT If you’re serious about your furniture and expect nothing less than expert craftsmanship, go to Kennedy Custom Upholstery at 3314 Simpson.

he said is not always as expensive as people expect. He said many people get scared off when they hear about hand-tied springs and kiln dried wood construction, but he said he can sell a custom or semi-custom sofa for $2,600. That’s not the cheapest option, but he said a customer can expect it to last for decades. Some end up paying that or more and see the piece start to come apart in 7 to 9 years. “People are living in a world knowing that new furniture is crap,” Trevor said. He grudgingly acknowledged that there are a couple of good manufacturers. Up to a point. But as someone who grew up taking furniture apart, most new pieces just aren’t the same. “Now people just accept that they have to pay a lot of money for a sofa that might not last that long.” In addition to repairs and new work, they also make custom cushions. Rebecca said with the return of the popularity of eat-in kitchens, they make a lot of cushions for banquettes. Rebecca’s roots are in Ocean City. Her father and brother’s dental practice is next door to the shop. Bob Woolery and Bob Woolery Jr. have an office in the same complex. With family businesses in each of their backgrounds, they weren’t afraid to take the plunge in the upholstery business, she said. Plus,

Trevor added, when they started out there wasn’t much expense, aside from the tools. He already had the experience, and they still order the fabric for each job. “My dad ran his own business. We weren’t as afraid to start one,” Trevor said. He wanted to work for himself. But doesn’t that include some drawbacks? As the boss, every problem becomes your problem. “But I want them to be my problem. I prefer to be the one that’s responsible for it.” They’re joined by one of their employees, Sarah Lacy, who sits nearby through the interview, participating now and then. Sarah came in to the shop looking for a job after Trevor neglected her emails. She helps customers pick out fabrics and is an in-house designer, Rebecca said. “We need to mention Laryn,” adds Trevor. Laryn Crisci has worked at the shop for about two years. “She’s awesome. She runs the logistics. She’s the behind-the-house clutch player that keeps us all in line. She’s very good at things that we’re not.” Rebecca remains involved, but she also has a fulltime job. “I helped Trev start this. We opened the business while I was getting my master’s in interior design at Drexel. So now I work full time as the interior designer at Halliday Architects here in Ocean City.

But I come in during my lunch and I meet with Sarah. I stay involved.” Sometimes, there is some overlap. Rebecca showed a photograph of a living room set created for a Halliday project. She worked with the client to furnish the living room, helping her pick the furniture and the fabrics. “She now has a completely custom furnished living room through us.” There are some pieces Trevor said he just won’t work on. Often, with a piece of furniture manufactured in the past decade, he suggests getting something new. “I’m not going to take the job if it’s not going to outlast you.” “One of the analogies that I use is you wouldn’t fix a 2001 Kia, but you would restore a 1969 Mustang,” Rebecca adds. “Sometimes I’m doing it more for myself than for the client, making sure it’s perfect,” Trevor said. He gestures to the arm of the sofa. “All these folds are within an eighth of an inch of each other when I do them. It’s weird stuff like that, stuff that people never even notice.” “People don’ necessarily know how to get there, but they can see the difference,” Rebecca said. Kennedy Custom Upholstery can be reached at 609399-1098.

Are You Holiday Ready?

409 8th Street OC, NJ 609-938-2398 Next To Ready’s Coffee Shop Winter Hours: Friday, Saturday & Monday 10-5... Sunday 11-4 seagrassboutique.com 43

be a Want to id? a rm e m ios fish Stud Call Bow or 0 1 1 -4 25 at 609-5 m o tudios.c bowfishs

ACTIVITY OF THE MONTH

MERMAKEOVERS

Get ready to flip over this experience at Asbury Avenue's Bowfish Studios

ANS Christian Anderson has nothing on Bowfish Studios. The famed author may have created “The Little Mermaid,” but Bowfish Studios on Asbury Avenue is turning real little girls into mermaids right before their eyes. “I had seen other businesses doing dress up, and they do all the princess stuff. I’m not really a princess-y person so I was trying to find out what would be better at the shore and what’s better than mermaids and sharks and pirates?” asked Caitlin Quirk, owner of Bowfish Kids and Bowfish Studios. “All winter I researched mermaids and how to come up with the perfect mermaid dress-up experience.” And according to friends Snow Godfrey and Katelyn Guyon, she has achieved it. Snow and Katelyn had an appointment for their MerMakeovers on an otherwise ordinary Thursday afternoon. When the girls arrived, they were greeted by their stylists, Catherine and McKenna, who were wearing costumes of their own, an unexpected but brilliant detail. Each girl was asked to choose a mermaid, Waverly, Brighton, or Delancey. This is the mermaid they would transform into. Waverly is a blue mermaid, Brighton purple, and Delancey pink. Snow chose Waverly and Katelyn Delancey. The stylists led the girls back into the dressing 44 OCEAN CITY MAGAZINE

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2017

room area where they were given a Bowfish tee and mermaid tail to change into. Everything about the Bowfish Studios space in the back of the Bowfish Kids retail shop helps get you into the nautical experience. The floor is a shimmery blue green, there is a fish netting and mermaid dolls near the entry, and the dressing room area is decked out with pirate costumes, shark costumes, and tons of mermaid tails. Oh and the entry to the dressing room? A castle, naturally. It appears as if no detail has been left behind. “We’re trying to make it a whole experience. I wanted it to be when you walk in you feel fully like you are part of an experience that you are getting made into a mermaid,” said Caitlin. Us moms had to help the girls into the mermaid tails, an easy change. Once they were in the outfit, the stylists put them into their chairs and fitted them with their very own mermaid fins, which the tail costume stretched over, making them look and act just like mermaids. Then the beauty part of the makeover began. The girls’ hair was braided into intricate designs, tattoos were dotted on their face, along with mermaid scales. And a mermaid isn’t a mermaid without plenty of shimmer and shine. Blue and green glitter and sparkles were placed all over Snow’s hair, face ,and arms. Katelyn, in keeping with their mermaid choices, had pink. Each girl received a shell clip that they were able to take

home as a memento. From the smiles on the girls’ faces, their memory of this experience won’t soon fade away. “I love the mermaid fin,” said Snow. “I love it all,” added Katelyn. “I feel like I did it right when the little girls walk out and say, “I am a mermaid,” said Caitlin. Bowfish Kids started out as Bangles N Bows on the Boardwalk as a retail shop for kids clothes and accessories but moved its location to Asbury Avenue and rebranded to Bowfish Kids in 2015. Earlier this year, Caitlin opened Bowfish Studios in the back of the shop. “My passion is bringing people together. That’s what pushed me to move Downtown. I like the community aspect. My goal is to create something that is more than just a retail store,” Caitlin said. In addition to the MerMakeovers, Bowfish offers a swashbuckler and shark transformation experience. The entire back space itself is transformable as well. “The concept was that I made the space as easy to transform as possible. Everything here is on wheels, I can take it all away,” said Caitlin. “In the off season we’re doing a lot of community events. People who live here year-round, they want a place to congregate. This month we have the zoo coming and are having an essential oils class for parents of newborns and toddlers.” You can have a birthday party at Bowfish too, and have your entire party become mermaids or swashbucklers. “I’m also getting back into my design roots. I’m coming out with a Bowfish line of clothing next year. I’m hoping I can build a big enough business where I can have it support people in this community. I want a whole crew of people I can employ,” said Caitlin. As the most famous mermaid Ariel said, “who says that my dreams have to just stay my dreams.” - text and photos by Stef Godfrey

Still your favorite store at the shore!

Byersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Choice Carolers and enchanting lighted water lanterns are the perfect combination to beautify the holiday season.

810 Asbury Ave., Staintonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Gallery of Shops 609.391.0055 45

A history of Asbury Avenue

By Deborah Worchel Photos courtesy of the Ocean City Historical Museum

ONDON has its Bond Street, Los Angeles is home to the world-renowned Rodeo Drive, New York City shoppers flock to Madison Avenue, and in Boston, a day spent browsing Newberry Street offers a multitude of shopping possibilities. Ocean City’s alliteratively catchy Asbury Avenue has offered visitors an array of shopping and services since its earliest days. The downtown business district shoppers enjoy today evolved through a desire of the founders of Ocean City to provide not only for the spiritual needs of visitors, but for their material needs as well. Though the Ocean City founders wanted to create a religious summer community, they also possessed a high level of business savvy. From the outset, they offered incentives to encourage growth and development. The 1884 Annual Report of the Ocean City Association indicates that Asbury Avenue had been “opened, cleared, 46 OCEAN CITY MAGAZINE

and a roadway graveled from 9th to 12th streets.” Jeff McGranahan, executive director of the Ocean City Historical Museum, pointed out that because development tended to start at the area around what is now the Tabernacle, we can assume that Asbury between 5th and 9th streets would have been cleared and graveled first. In addition to clearing and graveling a roadway, the founders decided in 1883 to offer a 25 percent discount on lot purchases for anyone who would put up a building worth double the value of the lot within one year of purchasing the land. Records indicate the first lot sold by the association was in the 700 block of Asbury Avenue. It began life as Corson Feed and Grain, before becoming Youngs Corson, Auctioneer. By 1896 Youngs Corson was also a real estate agent. The 1893 Ocean City Guidebook and directory supports this, listing a Y. Corson as owning a store and residence at 721 Asbury Avenue. The same directory reveals J.G. Gandy owned a general store at 745 Asbury as well

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2017

as a residence on the corner of Asbury and 8th Street. A photograph dated August of 1896 shows the interior of this building, but notes that it is “Gandy’s Oyster House,” indicating that the residence also eventually served as a business. Other early establishments included a “Pioneer Bakery,” owned and operated by Jacob Schuff who, like others, resided in the same dwelling as his business. His advertisement in the 1893 Ocean City Guidebook reads, “Fresh Bread, Pies and Cakes Daily: No cottonseed oil or lard compound… Only the best materials” and adds “Parties and Weddings Supplied. Goods delivered free of charge. Nothing Delivered on Sunday.” The author of the 1893 guidebook highlights his business as well, mentioning that Schuff “has devoted nearly 20 years of his life to his trade, and is thoroughly skilled and practical in all its branches.” In addition to a bakery, Asbury Avenue boasted an ice cream parlor at the corner of 7th Street. Early advertising offers a treasure trove

of historical information (though not always completely reliable), and the 1893 Guidebook spread for I.S. Champion’s Ice Cream Parlor is no exception. From the ad, we learn that I.S. Champion took over the business from F.E. Champion, though the relationship between the two is unclear. We also discover that the business was established as early as 1881 as “The Leading Milk Dealer in Ocean City.” By 1893, it had expanded to a restaurant offering ice cream made on site as well as soft drinks and confections. An 1896 ad in the Ocean City Sentinel proclaimed it a “cool and airy parlor where a corps of attentive waiters are in attendance.” A separate ad in the same paper indicates that I.S. Champion did not inherit the business from a deceased relative, since F.E. Champion advertises in the same paper for his business at 634 Asbury Avenue selling “Pure Spring Water Ice,” “The Best Grades of Coal,” and “Wood: All Lengths Cut to Order.” Much of the early retail development along Asbury Avenue was concentrated in the 700 block. It makes sense, therefore, that Ocean City’s first full time resident doctor would select this location for his residence, office, and pharmacy. Dr. Waggoner’s Seaside Pharmacy at 731 Asbury Avenue offered “Pure Drugs and Medicines, Toilet Goods and Fancy Articles, Whitman’s Confections and Stationary.” Dr. Waggoner had his office in the pharmacy, and served as borough clerk and city councilman early on in Ocean City’s history. Dr. Waggoner’s personal history was featured in the Ocean City Directory, perhaps because of his prominence in the early community, and it is too fascinating not to share it here. Not surprisingly, he originally hailed from Pennsylvania, where he studied medicine in Carlisle before attending and graduating from The University of Pennsylvania. During the Civil War, Dr. Waggoner was appointed assistant surgeon of the 5th Pennsylvania Calvary, served in some other capacities, and was eventually appointed as post surgeon of the United States General Hospital in Beverly, NJ. This was a convalescent hospital established in 1864 for the sole purpose of caring for wounded soldiers until they succumbed to their injuries, recovered enough to return to active duty, or recovered enough from a surgical amputation to return home to their families. The Ocean City Guidebook states Dr. Waggoner “acquired an enviable reputation as a surgeon,” during his time at General Hospital, leaving little doubt that Ocean City’s first doctor performed many amputations during his time at the

hospital. Just like many Civil War era surgeons, he learned his trade on the job and under stress. The Ocean City Guidebook indicates he left the private practice he established in New Jersey after the war to come to Ocean City when it was first planned. Perhaps living in a seaside resort sounded particularly appealing after his experiences during the war. Asbury Avenue was also home to what may have been the first, and was certainly the largest, hardware store in Ocean City in its early days. R.H. Thorn, originally of Philadelphia, was an early business investor in Ocean City, opening a hardware and home furnishings store at the corner of 8th and Asbury in 1885. Initially, he lived in the same building that housed his store. In 1887, however, he purchased two adjoining lots and expanded his store. Another apparent expansion occurred in 1891 when he again purchased more land, some of which was used for his store and some of which was used to build a dwelling for himself across the street. The Annual Report of 1889 sang his praises, proclaiming, “Mr. Thorn now owns the largest establishment of its kind in the city… The stock is constantly enlarged, as the demand steadily increases.” In 1883, the Annual Report of the Founders, written both to report on the progress they had made thus far in developing their seaside resort, but also written to entice more people to come and to invest in the development of the city proclaimed, “Our stores are well supplied and prices are moderate… A family can live the year round at Ocean City cheaper than in most places.” Six years later, the same report envisioned the future, saying, “The capitalist seeking new fields of enterprise, the house holder, the laborer, the student, and the artist will be greeted with a hospitality as universal as it is sincere.” Though the offerings on Asbury have expanded today, one can still find ice cream, confections, hardware, doctor’s services, and restaurants. And hopefully, as you browse and shop, you can discover the optimism and hospitality the founders envisioned.

Young's Pier

Human Roulette 47

Have a seat

Ocean Cityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Bench Dedication Memorial Program by Nick Matousch Photos by Stef Godfrey

48 OCEAN CITY MAGAZINE

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2017

Everyone has a favorite memory of Ocean City. With that memory comes some way of referencing it. Whether that be a favorite tee shirt, or a family photo taken in front of the Music Pier, there is always an object to remind someone of their memorable times here. For some, that object is a dedicated bench, with their memory preserved on it thanks to the Bench Dedication program. The Ocean City Bench Dedications are part of a larger program that helps keep memories alive in Ocean City. By placing plaques on benches, the goal is to memorialize the small moments that residents and visitors have experienced in their time in the town. The program was originally an individual request in 1996 from someone who wanted a bench in their family’s name. The city gladly granted the individual their wish, placing a single bench with a memorial plaque on the Boardwalk. Many quickly saw an appeal to it and called into City Hall, asking for the possibility of getting their own bench. “People started calling in nonstop, wanting a bench of their own,” said Carol Longo, one of the original members of the Bench Dedication Program. “Whether it be where they had their first kiss, where someone met their future husband, people wanted to memorialize their memories of Ocean City.” As a single request grew into a full fledged program, a way of organizing all the requests was established. Any requests for bench dedications were required to fill out an almost mini essay contest like form. Along with the required donation fee, people wanting their own bench would have to list the location, detail what they wanted on a bench, and what it meant to them. All of this information would be then engraved on a plaque and placed on a bench as close to possible to the people’s location requests. “Some people wanted their bench at Fourth Street. Others wanted theirs in

front of the Music Pier,” said Carol. “We couldn’t put a million benches in one location. As we placed the benches, we were realizing the scale of what we were trying to do.” The popularity of the program has led to a number of happy complications. When the bench dedications first started, they were initially going to be dedicated to one party for a limited number of years. This would have helped alleviate the ever growing number of requests that City Hall was receiving for dedications, as everyone and their mother wanted a bench in their name. However, Ocean City’s original dedications were not given a time limit, and the memorials on the benches have remained the same since day one. “The original thought was to do it for a short time,” says Kim Rose, currently in charge of the bench dedications. “Other cities have an eight to ten year lease period. Once an individual’s lease is up, a dedication can be renewed. Otherwise someone else is allowed to have their plaque replace the original on the bench. Ours ended up being if you purchased a bench, it was yours for a lifetime.” Permanent dedications have led to a limited number of spots on the Boardwalk, forcing those behind the program to look for dedication spots elsewhere on the island. The initial solution was to use benches in the Downtown district. Another successful campaign has been brick engravings and plaques on trees in locations around the city, such as Veteran’s Park and the crosswalks. With so many blank brick faces in the city, it seemed like a good idea. But the fascination with the Boardwalk benches has prevailed, potential donors to the bench dedication program insisting to be one of the few hundred benches on the wooden walkway. “You can offer a lot but people want the Boardwalk bench,” said Carol. “That is what people really want.” “With a waiting list of hundreds of applicants, the program is unfortunately now closed,” said Doug Bergen, the

informations officer for the City of Ocean City. When the city decides to open the program again and place more benches, those at the top of the waiting list will be the first to be called. Until then, Doug and Kim hope to come up with an appealing alternative choice to the benches and bricks that will hopefully whittle down this long list. “It is such a wonderful program because people recognize Ocean City as a part of their life," Carol said. The bench dedication program’s successes have helped cherish plenty of memories of those who have made their way through Ocean City. Plaques on many benches recall seashore nostalgia, and they also tribute serious cases that have affected the community. A bench near Wonderland honors a former patron who was victim of the September 11, 2001 attacks in New York. Another plaque near Playland is a mother’s dedication for her young son who passed. The benches do their best not only to memorialize people’s love of the carefree vacations that Ocean City has brought them, but also of townspeople who treasured their time in Ocean City during their life. “People have always been so excited to get a bench dedication spot. They are just so grateful to have a piece of Ocean City,” said Carol. “We used to send a note to people for Christmas, with a detail of the inscription of the plaque.” Remembrance enriches, adding little experiences to the bigger story of Ocean City. The Bench Dedication Program goes a long way towards helping that, ensuring the little moments in the long history of the town are not forgotten. Sharing good times not only helps people remember those times where life was as good as it can get, but the Dedication Program allows people to remember why they enjoy Ocean City so much. Next time you have a seat on the Boardwalk, take a glance and read the plaques on the benches to learn of old memories of Ocean City. Just don’t forget to make memories of your own.

Tales From the Beach:

A gentle story about a gentleman making a day trip by Chris Madison

A 50 OCEAN CITY MAGAZINE

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2017

As I do every weekend morning while down “the shore,” I headed to the Boardwalk, coffee and iPad in hands... to sit under the pavilion at 11th Street to relax, read, listen to the surf. As I approached the covering, I noticed an elderly man sitting on the front bench, looking out at the walkers and bicyclers going by. I was heading to the benches further in, facing towards the ocean, as I normally do... and I had also noticed a young man in his late 20s approaching the pavilion, with a coffee himself.

...the three of us had intersected, the elderly man sitting on the front bench, I passing him heading to a back bench, and the young man about to sit on the same bench as the “old” man. "Excuse me, but is anyone sitting here,” I heard the young man ask as I passed, and the older gentleman answering, “No, make yourself comfortable.” As I settled in to my routine, I overheard the old man ask the younger man if he was down here vacationing. I immediately thought to myself, "thank goodness I didn’t say good morning and get stuck talking to him... I just want to read!" The young man answered with a short “yep, my wife is shopping,”probably hoping this wasn’t going to continue. “That’s nice,” said the old man. “Such a great place to vacation.” Nothing else, nothing more. A pause... and the younger man, almost like he was thinking ‘that was it,’ asked “and yourself, down for a vacation?” “Oh, no.” he answered. “Just a day trip. I live up in Fox Chase in Northeast Philly, so it’s just under a two hour drive for me. But, we used to vacation here every year, one week, long weekends, we loved it.” “You and your family, wife and children would come down?” I heard the young man ask. “Yes, every summer,” he answered. “Is your wife with you today?” “No, Nancy passed away five years ago. she had cancer.” “I’m sorry to hear that... how about your children, do you still come down with them?” the young man asked. "No, our son Tom, he died in a car accident when he was 19, but he loved Ocean City!” I found myself fully listening now to the two men talking. I had even turned around to get another glimpse of them both, a better one than I had when I first passed them. “Oh my, I seem to keep stepping on my tongue. I’m sorry,” apologized the young man. “Oh, no need to apologize, I have wonderful memories of Ocean City. We started coming down when Tommy was only two years old, always stayed on 2nd Street. We’d walk up to the Boardwalk and of course had to stop at Wonderland... couldn’t pass by, to put Tom on the rides. He loved the little boats with the bell. We’d work our

way down the boardwalk, having ice cream, before dinner and Nancy would get so mad at me... eventually we’d make it to Bob’s Grille on 14th Street, get a grilled cheese maybe, then head back. Halfway there I’d be carrying Tom, who was just too little to make it back awake. As he got older he could of course, as we always went to Bob’s for dinner... eventually even Nancy got into our routine of dessert before dinner,” the elderly gentleman laughed as he told the story. The young man now introduced himself... “very nice to meet you Frank, I’m Ben,” said the elderly gentleman. “Please go on Ben,” said Frank, “my wife is a long shopper!” I had turned around, yet again, to take a look at the two men, the older one gazing out on the Boardwalk as he spoke, and the younger one now completely turned sitting, facing him, fully enraptured with the story. “Then after Tom died, well we didn’t come down for a while, hurt too much back then. But one day, we woke up, and said let’s make a day trip to Ocean City. Well, you know, you get in habits, so we parked on 2nd Street, and walked up to the Boardwalk. Of course we stopped at Wonderland, and walked over to the little boats, I’ll admit, we were sad, but we also laughed with memories. We decided to head to Bob’s, and of course had an ice cream on the way... Nancy’s idea this time (he laughed), we would get there, and have our grilled cheeses. Did that for years, never coming back for a full vacation, never seemed right without all of us, just did our day trips. After Nancy passed, well I took off a year or so... but you know, life goes on, so here I am, started on 2nd Street, on my way to Bob’s, afraid to say, but, now I’m the one who gets too tired halfway, so stopped here to rest a bit.” When I had turned, to take yet another glance at Ben, I had now noticed I was not the only one under the pavilion listening to this gentle story being told by this gentleman. There was now a jogger who had stopped to rest, not eager to resume his run, and a middle aged couple as quiet and attentive as you would be in church listening to a sermon... his head slightly cocked to hear better, his wife dabbing at her eyes. It’s hard to describe what I felt at that moment, taking this all in, sadness for sure, but a feeling of love, family? The only

word that comes to mind... I was feeling “humanity,” a rush of humanity enveloping us all that morning. Clearly in my mind, I could see young 20-something Ben walking down the Boardwalk with Nancy, both holding hands with young Tom who was walking between them... this same Boardwalk I myself have walked the past 50 years. Might I have passed them one night, decades ago, not knowing them, their story, or how we might intersect many years later in this pavilion? A young dark-haired woman approached, looking to be eight months with child, and Frank said to Ben, “This is my wife Joan... Joan this is my friend Ben.” “It’s a pleasure to meet you Joan,” Ben said as he slowly stood extending his hand. “Nice to meet you Ben,” said Joan, then asking her husband how long they have known each other. “Just met now,” said Frank. “But I’m afraid it must feel like years, I’ve been talking so much,” added Ben. “So off you two go, lots of memories to make, and it looks like soon to be many more,” obviously referring to their expected baby. “It was very nice talking with you Ben, I hope you enjoy the rest of your day,” said Frank. “The pleasure was all mine Frank, thank you for letting me bend your ear.” They all shook hands saying goodbye, and as the young couple walked down the boardwalk holding hands, Ben watched them with a smile on his face. I felt a loneliness for Ben just then, maybe it was wrong to, maybe Ben was happy in his thoughts, maybe I was lonely in mine... whatever the case, I got up from the bench where I was sitting and walked towards Ben's... and asked, "Excuse me, but is anyone sitting here?" "No," said Ben. "Make yourself comfortable." To which I did, and listened again to a gentle story from a gentleman, making a day trip. Author Chris Madison is a resident of Bucks County, Pa, with a summer home in Ocean City. He's been coming to Ocean City every summer since 1968, as a young child, and now with his family. He is the commercial cirector for the Eastern Region for Graphic Packaging International, a Global Packaging Corporation. Chris is also a freelance writer of short stories. 51

oto our ph y k in h T e? be her should of photos r u o y J to Send City, N Ocean jmagazine. ocn editor@ com 52

OCNJMAGAZINE.COM August 2014

Look & Sea MARIA, MARIA Photography by Kerri Janto

Good Karma

Kookie Kids By Nick Matousch Photos provided by Kookie Kids

“A big idea of the charity is kids helping kids.”

T THE age of 13, Katie Bowman was eager to get a job. She was not legally allowed to work, however, being too young. Yet she was still determined to do something with her summer. Gathering a handful of kids from the neighborhood, she asked her mother if they could bake in their church’s kitchen, Saint Peter’s United Methodist Church on 8th Street. Her intentions were to sell cookies at the weekly Ocean City Farmer’s Market in the summer, and donate the proceeds to Sean and Colin Randles, two of their friends living with cystic fibrosis. With a lifetime of baking experience, Jennifer Bowman was more than pleased with her daughter’s plan. “I’m in charge of the kitchen at Saint Peter’s. I used to have my own bakery, so I know a lot about baking,” said Jennifer. “They can make

54 OCEAN CITY MAGAZINE

cookies at the church because it is Board of Health approved.” On Mondays in summer the kids can be found at Saint Peter’s hard at work through the majority of the day. Jennifer and a few other helpers from the church arrive at seven in the morning to make enough dough for a few thousand cookies. The kids will come in at nine, and cut cookie dough into any one of five shapes – fish, sunglasses, sailboats, palm trees, and dolphins – and load them onto trays, ready for the oven. After being decorated, they are arranged into packages of about 15 cookies. Each box sells for five dollars a box at the Farmer’s Market at the Tabernacle Grounds on Wednesdays in July and August. “Some people see us and buy a box. Others who are watching their diet or who think the kids are cute will usually leave a donation,” said Jennifer. “The parents, church members and I will supervise and handle the appliances in the

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2017

kitchen,” she added. The Kookie Kids always have help when they are in the kitchen at Saint Peter’s. Parents and church members are present to handle the appliances while the kids work the dough. Guest bakers will also show up to bake. The Randles (the boys the kids originally donated to) are now two steady members of the charity baking club. The structured learning special education students of Ocean City High School came in to help decorate the cookies, adorning last year’s Christmas batch with colorful sugar coatings. “Tom Fredricks at the high school asked if there was anything they can do. So we brought them in to decorate our holiday cookies,” said Jennifer, who added how greatly they appreciate the assistance from the students. A big idea of the charity is kids helping kids. All of the money fundraised by Katie Bowman and her group of friends is allotted toward causes near and dear to them. Whether it be cases right in their backyards or charities far from their neighborhoods, the kids always find somewhere to send the money. Word of those in need usually

comes from Saint Peter’s church. Asher Poolake – a newborn within the parish community – was born with his bladder outside of his body, needing surgery to fix it. The kids, fond of baby Asher, raised $500 to help alleviate the medical costs for his surgery. They have dedicated money towards scholarships, too, as a Dominican girl named Karen is under sponsorship by the kids for her education and learning English in the United States. The weekly sales usually help generate a decent amount of money in a short time frame. Such was the case when a recent Ocean City graduate, Matthew Fumo, had broken his neck in a swimming accident this past summer and needed immediate medical assistance. “The kids decide what to do with the money and who to donate to,” said Jennifer. “I give suggestions, but the kids ultimately decide.” Now two years in, the Kookie Kids have a better feel for what direction to go in the coming years. As time goes on and they gain more experience with the program, the kids continue to become better at figuring where their efforts should be directed. This Christmas, their profits are going towards the victims of Hurricane Marie in the Dominican Republic. The money the kids raised in the summer – in addition to their winter profits – are being directed toward buying clothing, footwear, school supplies, games, and much more for those in need in the south. Though everyone is busy with the school year, they still help bake and fundraise for those in need. Yoasis Frozen Yogurt on Asbury sells the cookies during the Christmas season, helping the kids in their mission. “The weeks we say the money would go specifically to a certain person, our sales and donations go up. So next year I think we are going to know where it will go,” said Jennifer. “I do intend to get structured learning kids back involved. The thing about them is they are hand-capable, not handicapped, and they were awesome to have with us.” Katie is now old enough to work, helping when she can. With the Kookie Kids program doing well, she feels satisfied about her work forming the group. Her sister Kelsea, age 12, is now in charge at the tent at the Farmer’s Market (with the assistance of her mom), and enjoys her time as a salesperson. Putting the youngest Bowman at the forefront has helped her develop socially and taught her to enjoy talking to people. “I really like the selling part. It makes me feel good to raise money for people,” said Kelsea. “I feel better helping a lot of kids who need the help at the time,” said Andi Helpenstine, a neighborhood friend who helps Kookie Kids on a weekly basis. Although school is now in full swing for the kids, they still have their ears and eyes open. They are more than willing and ready to search for the next cause in need of their assistance, and hoping their effort can make a large impact.

On the Beach

BOOK OF THE MONTH Origin Robert Langdon, Harvard professor of symbology and religious iconology, arrives at the ultramodern Guggenheim Museum Bilbao to attend a major announcement – the unveiling of a discovery that “will change the face of science forever.” The evening’s host is Edmond Kirsch, a 40-year-old billionaire and futurist whose dazzling high-tech inventions and audacious predictions have made him a renowned global figure. Kirsch, who was one of Langdon’s first students at Harvard two decades earlier, is about to reveal an astonishing breakthrough . . . one that will answer two of the fundamental questions of human existence. As the event begins, Langdon and several hundred guests find themselves captivated by an utterly original presentation, which Langdon realizes will be far more controversial than he ever imagined. But the meticulously orchestrated evening suddenly erupts into chaos, and Kirsch’s precious discovery teeters on the brink of being lost forever. Reeling and facing an imminent threat, Langdon is forced into a desperate bid to escape Bilbao. With him is Ambra Vidal, the elegant museum director who worked with Kirsch to stage the provocative event. Together they flee to Barcelona on a perilous quest to locate a cryptic password that will unlock Kirsch’s secret.- Danbrown.com

On the 12th day of Christmas, I found at my library 12 new best sellers 11 famous movies 10 children’s classics 9 handy workshops 8 book club meetings 7 music concerts 6 museum passes

Special Holiday event

The Library’s Holiday Festival

5 DVDs 4 puppet shows 3 lectures 2 cooking classes

and a festival by the

ChriStmAS tree.

OCEAN CITY

Visit our website and click FREE PUBLIC “newsletter Sign up” to receive the latest news on our events and programs. www.oceancitylibrary.org | 1735 Simpson Ave. | (609) 399-2434

LIBRARY

56 OCEAN CITY MAGAZINE

Sun., Dec. 3, 1 pm

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2017

CheCk out our new mobile app

Hours:

OCEAN CITY FREE PUBLIC

LIBRARY

monday-Friday 9 am-9 pm Saturday 9 am-5 pm Sunday 11 am-5 pm

On the Beach Word Search

>> WHAT YOU’RE LOOKING FOR TRAIL OF TWO CITIES

MISTLETOE

TRAIN SHOW

CHRISTMAS

EARLIER THAN THE BIRD

TURKEY AND STUFFING

HANUKKAH

OCEAN CITY FIRST NIGHT

DOWNTOWN SHOPPING

HORSE AND CARRIAGE RIDES

CHRISTMAS PARADE

SANTA AND MRS. CLAUS

QUIET FESTIVAL

FIRST DAY AT THE BEACH

BREAKFAST WITH SANTA

MIRACLE ON ASBURY AVENUE

DECORATIONS

MERRY AND BRIGHT

EGGNOG

THANK A VETERAN

SNOWBALL

58 OCEAN CITY MAGAZINE

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2017

Mrs.MARKET Claus’

Mention this ad for $10 OFF

1214 West Ave, Ocean City

(We’re in Atilis Gym and open to the public)

609-816-2244 tanbosstan.com

Come see Mrs Claus at the Ocean City Historical Museum Gift Shop starting December 3 From December 4-8 the Gift Shop is open until 7pm.

1735 Simpson 399-1801 * www.ocnjmuseum.org

11 th Street & The Boardwalk | Ocean Cit y, NJ 08226 | 609.399.1000

Holiday Events at The Flanders Thanksgiving Buffet Dinner

Thursday, November 23rd 12 noon - 3pm

36.95

14.95

per person plus tax & gratuity children under 12

Holiday High Tea

Breakfast with Santa & A Holiday Show

Sunday, December 17th 10am Santa and his Elves will join us for a Breakfast Buffet, pictures with Santa and singing and dancing to the songs of the season!

per person plus tax & gratuity (adults & children)

December 10th & 17th at 1pm

Tea includes a selection of Savories, Tea Sandwiches & Sweet Delights, Entertainment & a Holiday Gift

.95

per person plus tax & gratuity

New Year’s Eve Dinner 5pm - 9pm

New Year’s Day Breakfast Buffet January 1st • 9am - 11am

Reservations required for all events by calling 609.399.1000 • more information at www.theflandershotel.com 59

On the Beach Oceanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 11

Think You Know Ocean City? Sit back, get comfy in your beach chair and see how many questions you can answer!

1 2 3 4

Beach tags are required to be worn by people of what age? What year was the first Trail of Two Cities?

When is the Ocean City Christmas Parade 2017?

What is the name of the Ocean City High School Mascot?

5 6 7 8

True or False... there are water fountains outside the Music Pier?

From what streets does the Boardwalk run?

What does it say across the top of the OC lifeguard stands? Which Boardwalk amusement park had a skating rink in the

1940s?

60 OCEAN CITY MAGAZINE

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2017

9 10 11

For whom is the Welcome Center on the 9th Street Bridge named? What year were the blue laws repealed in Ocean City?

Who painted the famous author mural at the OC Library? Answers on page 61 >

Ocean City

Activities Guide

Atilis Gym OC's newest and largest gym. 1214 West, 545-8830.

Ocean City Arts Center Classes, shows, summer art camp. 1735 Simpson, 399-7628.

Bayview Marina Waverunners, parasailing. 312 Bay Avenue, 399-5100.

Ocean City Historical Museum Check out OC’s past through postcards, photos and exhibits. 1735 Asbury, 399-1801.

Dak’s Kayaks Eco tours. 1101 Asbury, 938-1185 Gillian’s Wonderland Pier Tons of exciting rides. 6th and Boardwalk, 399-7082. Greate Bay Golf Club 901 Mays Landing Road, Somers Point, 927-5071. Greate Bay Racquet and Fitness 90 Mays Landing Road, Somers Point, 925-9550. Jilly’s Arcade Awesome arcade. Ten cent skeeball machines! Find Jackey and see if you can beat her score. 1172 Boardwalk, 385-1234.

Ocean City Library Filled with DVDs, games, and books! 1735 Simpson, 399-2434. OC Municipal Golf Course 12 hole, par 3. 26th and Bay, 399-5762. Ocean City Parasail Safe and fun. 232 Bay, 399-3559. OC Pops An Ocean City tradition. 5259248, oceancitypops.org. Ocean City Tabernacle Shows throughout the summer. 550 Wesley Avenue, 399-1915.

Local Gym and Fitness Ocean City's complete gym. 908 Asbury, 545-8732.

OC Theatre Company Broadway style shows. 1501 West, 525-9300, oceancitytheatrecompany.com.

OC Aquatic & Fitness Center Newlyrenovated. 1735 Simpson, 398-6900.

Pirate Voyages We’re going on a trip on our favorite pirate ship. 232 Bay, 398-7555.

Playland’s Castaway Cove Over 30 rides, two mini golf courses, and Go Karts. 1020 Boardwalk, 399-4751. Totally Tubular Watersports Tubing, wakeboarding, waterskiing. 314 Bay, 3989000. Tuckahoe Bike Shop & Surf Buggy Center Rent bikes. Fun. 1214 West Avenue, OC, 398-9700. Wet N Wild Waverunner Rentals 244 Bay, 399-6527.

Ocean’s 11 Answers 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11.

12 years and up 1990 December 1 Howie True St. James Place to 23rd Street Watch Your Children Playland Former Mayor Roy Gillian 1985 Nancy Palermo and Sue Rau

Retiring at the shore? Don’t leave your assets behind!

If you missed out on our Enjoyable Retirement Solution workshops, it’s not too late to have an enjoyable retirement! Call (609) 486-5073 or visit www.reichassetmanagement.com/contact to schedule a complimentary consultation with retirement specialist T. Eric Reich, CIMA®, CFP®, CLU®, ChFC®.

110 Roosevelt Boulevard, Ste 2W • Marmora, NJ 08223 • www.ReichAssetManagement.com

Securities offered through Kestra Investment Services, LLC (Kestra IS), member FINRA/SIPC. Investment advisory services offered through Kestra Advisory Services, LLC (Kestra AS), an affiliate of Kestra IS. Reich Asset Management, LLC is not affiliated with Kestra IS or Kestra AS. Holiday 2017.indd 1

9/29/2017 4:49:40 PM

OC Services

Humane Society of Ocean City

PETS OF THE MONTH

Women a nd cats will do as they please Robert H einlein

>>>>â&#x20AC;˘<<<<

Dusty -

Attentive and Gentle!

Dusty is a male omani wadi dog who is about 18 months old. He traveled all the way from the Arabian Peninsula in search of his forever home. Dusty is an intelligent and wonderfully happy pooch, possessing a silly playfulness about him. He tends to be a bit shy and timid at first, but responds well to affection and food! Outgoing and well-mannered, attentive and gentle.

Ricky -

A Snuggler!

Ricky is a neutered male shepherd mix about one. Ricky has come from Georgia looking for a forever home. Ricky is sweet, playful, and intelligent and will make an excellent companion for almost any family type or size! He is a young, but calm and gentle. Ricky enjoys walks and running in the yard, chasing balls, and snuggling up next to you!

62 OCEAN CITY MAGAZINE

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2017

Rose - Friendly and Affectionate! Rose is a beautiful solid orange domestic long haired cat. She's about one year old. Rose came to the HSOC as a stray with five kittens. Rose is friendly and affectionate. She's good with other cats and most children, dogs are unknown. Rose would be a wonderful addition to almost any home.

Mary & Ellen -

Sisters!

"Mary and Ellen are female chi-weenies (Chihuahua/Dachshund mix) about two years of age. They are sisters who absolutely love to do everything together! Mary and Ellen run the gamut of typical small dog behaviors, which of course will steal your heart in a moment! They love to play and go for walks... and investigate everything you're doing!

Coffee & Latte - Handsome Brothers! Coffee and Latte are large handsome five year old tabby brothers that were returned to us due to their owners moving and only wanting to take their dogs to their new home and not the cats. In 2012, Coffee and Latte were transferred to us from a shelter in North Jersey that had to make space for new arrivals. It was explained to us that they were born in the

shelter and lived there for almost a year before being transferred to us. Coffee and Latte are extremely affectionate but would prefer to be without dogs. Children over ten and other cats would be okay. We want them to stay together so we are looking for a low activity home willing to give them all the love and attention they deserve.

OC Services