Ocean City magazine May 2010 by Ocean City Magazine

Ocean City may 2010

premier issue -$3.95

IN THE SALT SPRAY an Eco-Tour Adventure

magazine

So, You Think You Can Lifeguard?

Stef’s Must Haves Shop Downtown

Shopping•Dining•Events•History and More in America’s Greatest Family Resort

Coconut Shrimp Crab Cake

940 Boardwalk, Ocean City End of Ocean Colony Walk (609) 399-2400 www.hulasauces.com

Firecracker Shrimp Fried Jumbo Oysters Grilled Ahi Plate Salmon Teriyaki Hawaiian Chicken Pulled Pork Plate Delicious Fresh Salad Shrimp Scampi Hula Burger Ahi Burger Huli Cheese Fries Kids Items

Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s where the locals eat!

EAT INSIDE, OUTSIDE, OR TAKE HOME!

may Ocean City

features

In the Salt Spray 22 Hole Lotta Love 26 All CAPs 32 So You Think You Can Lifeguard? 28

things to do

May Calendar 13 Soifer’s Seven 14 Local Ocean photo pages 15 & 41 Kid Calendar 43

shopping

Stef’s Must Haves 16 The Shopping Guide 17 Trends 20

dining

In the Kitchen 5 The Dining Guide 9 Famished Foodie 8 Recipe 7

accommodations Staying Over 46

the rest

Notes from the Beach 4 OC Quiz/Word Search 44 You In Ocean City 50 It’s History 48 Arts & Culture 38

In the Salt Spray See story on page 22. Photo by

Bill Stuempfig

Notes from the Beach

Welcome to Ocean City magazine

ELCOME to the first ever issue of Ocean City magazine! It’s my best intention to put out there (and into your hands) a brilliant publication about all there is to do, see, learn and experience in and around Ocean City, NJ. I LOVE Ocean City and, since you picked up this glossy and are reading, you must love it too. We are all indeed lucky to live, vacation, hang in these parts – on the edge of America. It’s cool out here, partly because of the sea breezes, partly because of the people and places. Ocean City is America’s Greatest Family Resort. Why? Because it’s a downhome small town that just happens to be a world-class island vacation destination. Read Fred Miller’s history column this month to learn just how long OC’s been using its ubiquitous slogan. Ocean City was recently named Number One Beach in New Jersey and Number One Shopping District at the Shore. If you’ve spent time in the boutiques along Asbury Avenue or on the silky beaches, then you know. If you haven’t, then what are you waiting for? Hurry up and get there! Bring this magazine with you. Soft sand awaits on the beach and fabulous shopping and dining awaits downtown. Ocean City truly has everything for everybody. Sweet! I have many smile-worthy memories of Ocean City from my childhood. My mom Claudia, dad Joe, and my Aunt Jane often vacationed here in the summer; renting a beachfront or bayfront home for weeks at a time with me along for the ride. We’d stay outside till the sun went down, boat the back bays, ride bikes on the boards, swim the lagoons, ride the City Jet at Wonderland, and eat Johnson’s Popcorn and Mack and Manco Pizza until we were good and full. I feel comfort in Ocean City. It’s the same town of

Getting ready to jump in the lagoon on Walnut Road in 1983

my childhood. Sure, some things have changed, that’s bound to happen, but the Ocean City icons are still there. Last week, I went to Mack and Manco with my two children. And this summer I’ll take them to Wonderland Pier. That makes me smile. Speaking of Ocean City traditions... Laura Kiniry writes about a Boardwalk institution known for its amazing donuts...of course, we’re talking about Brown’s. Read about it on page 26. Then go get a donut... maybe I’ll see you in line. On page 48, Pam Mood takes on culture in the OC. Check it out. In the very back of the magazine, you’ll find a fun feature called “You in Ocean City.” Send your favorite photo taken on the island and it just might be made into the “cover.” Enjoy the issue and please send your thoughts, comments, good cheers, and photos to ocnjmagazine@comcast.net. Happy May!

contributors NJ NATIVE LAURA KINIRY honed her incredible Skeeball skills at Ocean City’s Jilly’s Arcade, and spent some of her best summers along West Avenue. The Garden State guidebook author now writes for publications that include American Way, Bicycling, Make, and Preservation.com from her home in San Francisco, though she’s still a frequent shore visitor. Laura wrote the Brown’s Donuts (page 26) and CAP (page 32) stories in this issue.

FRED MILLER AND HIS WIFE SUSAN have written seven books on local history including: Ocean City – America’s Greatest Family Resort and Ocean City Beach Patrol. Besides his writing, Fred is busy with the following organizations: Cape May County Culture and Heritage Commission (secretary); Ocean City Historic Preservation Commission; Ocean City Historical Museum (past president); and the Ocean City Lifesaving Museum (board of directors). See his story on page 48.

Ocean City

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In the Kitchen

Chef Andy Yoa ISLAND GRILL

Bill Godfrey discovers this local chef’s got game

FINALLY caught up with Island Grill owner/chef Andy Yoa after a photo shoot one fine April morning. We’d been trying to meet up for a week or two, but he was getting ready to open his restaurant. He’s also president of the Ocean City Restaurant Association so he was really busy. But we finally sat down for coffee on Asbury Avenue and chatted about how he came to have kangaroo on his menu. That’s right, kangaroo. Andy’s Island Grill is one of the only places I know – wait – it is the only place I know that has an exotic game menu available to diners. We’re talking bison, kangaroo, stuff like that. But don’t fret folks, Andy has a traditional menu too – crabcakes, steaks, fresh fish – that should definitely be enjoyed at least once during your stay in Ocean City. Great food, al fresco tables, nice guy in the kitchen… what more do you want? Oh yeah, wild game menu. And a private island with a lot of fish jumping onto your hook. Read on! OCmag: Hi Andy, thanks for your time. Andy: Happy to be here.

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OCmag: Let’s start with your kitchen credentials – where’d you learn to cook and run such a great restaurant? Andy: I went to Johnson and Wales in Providence, Rhode Island, but I’ve been working in restaurants for a long time. I grew up and went to school Above, Andy Yoa gets fired up at Island Grill. Below, delish fare. in West Deptford, but I spent all my give – that makes it all worth while. summers in Ocean City. I helped a friend OCmag: Let’s talk about your wild game open a french fry stand on the Boardwalk, menu. Now that’s cool. worked in a few places around Ocean Andy: We’re a little unique. On the City, did an internship at a Bucks County weekends we offer a lot of wild game Holiday Inn – steaks and seafood and a – antelope kangaroo, moose, alligator, lot of catering there – and opened the elk. And most restaurants do a catch of Island Grill a year after college in 1996. the day, but we pride ourselves on doing OCmag: Have you always wanted to be a eight to 15 exotic fish every day during chef? the summer. It keeps us on our feet. Andy: I’m told that in kindergarten I OCmag: What was the inspiration for the played with the little plastic kitchens and game menu? I’ve known since sophomore year in high Andy: There’s only so many ways to cook school that this is what flounder, and since Ocean City is a dry I wanted to do. town, we have to think outside the box OCmag: What’s the best in order to draw people onto the island part of being a chef? and be unique, so I thought, “let’s do (A look of puzzlement something different.” comes across Andy’s OCmag: Do you eat everything on the face) game menu? Andy: Hmm… all the Andy: Yes. And as for the game, I’ve guests that come back, never had anyone say “I don’t like this.” the repeat business and p Continued on page 7 the compliments they

Ocean City

2010

In the Kitchen p From page 5

I had a woman come in one time and buy several pounds – we also sell the game menu raw – she had a lady’s club and she put it out and everybody enjoyed it. Then she told them what it was. They all loved it. I think they may have been thinking “how could you do that?” but… It doesn’t have a real gamey flavor. Ostrich, venison, antelope – they’re healthier than turkey. We’re talking half the cholesterol of turkey. Kangaroo is 98 percent fat-free; it’s a red meat. A lot of the wild game I get is either from Texas or New Jersey, so it’s really fresh. OCmag: What do you do when you’re not in the kitchen? Andy: Work on items to get more people into the restaurant. OCmag: And now for something completely different. If you could fly anywhere in the world today for dinner, where would you go? Andy: Hmm… Caribbean OCmag: Is that for the food or for the sun or both? Andy: Everything. OCmag: What’s your favorite spot? Andy: Barbados is nice, but anywhere the fish are is my favorite. I love to go fishing. I would sit on a private island, fish all day, eat the fish at night – that’s all you need.

Ocean City Publishers Stef and Bill Godfrey

Stuffed Flounder Cousin’s Restaurant, 104 Asbury

8 - 3oz flounder filets 1/2 lb small shrimp, peeled & deveined 1/2 lb bel paese cheese, chopped 1 cup marinara sauce 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil 1 tsp garlic powder 1 tsp onion powder 1 tsp black pepper 2 cups fresh baby spinach, chopped 1 tsp fresh parsley chopped 1) Saute shrimp and spinach in olive oil, set aside to cool. When cool add cheese, garlic powder, onion powder and mix well. 2) Divide mixture evenly in center of each flounder filet and roll into bundle. 3) Place bundles in casserole and top with marinara sauce. 4) Bake at 350 degrees for 15 to 20 minutes. 5) Remove from dish carefully and serve on platter, topping with remaining sauce from casserole dish. Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley.

Editor Stef Godfrey Advertising Manager Bill Godfrey Contributing Writers Laura Kiniry, Fred Miller, Pam Mood Contributing Artists/Photographers Marie Natale, Eric Weeks

Ocean City magazine is published six times a year. 4,000 copies are distributed all around Ocean City and its surrounding communities. Cover price is $3.95. To purchase a copy or get an annual subscription for $20, call (609) 675-0867 or www.ocnjmagazine.com ocnjmagazine.com

Ocean City

Cousin’s Chef/Owner Bill McGinnity

Famished Foodie

Scully’s Asbury Cafe Al Dente finds a “great little gem” downtown

UCKED away in the section of Asbury Avenue between 9th and 10th Street is a great little gem of a restaurant called Scully’s. I could’ve called it a trattoria, an Italian restaurant that’s simple in style, because Scully’s has primarily a casual menu. I could’ve called it a pizzeria because if they only served pizza, they would supply many contented customers, or maybe I could’ve called it “New American” cuisine. Whatever the label, Scully’s manages to do it all and do it well. Upon entering the dining room, you can’t help but notice the “Old World” inspired art on the walls and stylish seating. Even the silverware is distinctive – heavy-handeled, pewterlike stainless steel with a scroll design at the bottom. Scully’s is a place that obviously cares about attention to detail. We were immediately greeted and shown to our table. Our hostess was also our server, bus, and take out person. We dined during the lunch hour, but found that the menu was not limited to just lunch items. Our server gave us a list of specials and immediately took our drink order. I started with an appetizer of nori wrapped tuna that was dipped in a tempura batter. The tuna was sushi grade, crisp on the outside and served rare on the inside. The roll sat in a pool of thickened soy sauce accompanied by pickled ginger, wasabi and marinated cucumber salad over rice. The portion was very generous, enough

to share. The presentation was beyond amateur; colorful, almost a work of art, the bright pink pickled ginger, the deep purple of the tuna, and the light green of the wasabi paste all neatly and symmetrically composed on a rectangular plate. My guest ordered the white bean, broccoli rabe and sausage soup. We noted the difference in the size of the vegetables, a real homemade touch. Our waitress offered

my guest fresh grated cheese for the soup. This is a sign of a true Italian restaurant. We did have trouble finding the broccoli rabe in the soup, however there seemed to be something that looked and tasted like escarole. Did it matter? Not to us, it was just like grandma used to make. The next course was the pizza. I’ve had many pies from Scully’s and today my dining partners really wanted to see how the white pie stacked up. Everyone was pleased. A chewy, semi-thick crust with lots of flavor and not overpowered with garlic. Slices were devoured with no take-home that day. Our main course was the chicken

Ocean City

paisano sandwich and the roasted atlantic salmon. The sandwich is a fried chicken cutlet with sautéed spinach, roasted red peppers, provolone cheese and long hot peppers, served on a semolina roll; a great Italian combination and large enough to share. The salmon arrived hot and cooked to perfection, not raw in the center nor dried out. It was served with a mushroom and sundried tomato confit and topped with gorgonzola cheese. I was a little skeptical about the pairing of a sweettasting fish like salmon and blue cheese. Usually I consider blue cheese to be the perfect accompaniment to steak or a burger, but soon realized this was a chef I could trust when pairing food. When it came time to order dessert, we asked our server if the choices were homemade and she replied honestly, “No we don’t make them here. A family friend creates and delivers them.” Since I find it very refreshing to find homemade goodies at any restaurant, we placed our order. We enjoyed the cannoli, which was perfectly crisp on the outside and filled with a sweet, delicate and creamy ricotta cheese filling. I could see myself meandering in just for coffee and dessert after some shopping on Asbury Avenue. Our multi-tasking server was very attentive, and experienced with service and completely familiar with Scully’s menu. The portions, service and fine food enables Scully’s to remain open in the off season. I’ll be back for seconds, and recommend Scully’s to anyone in town seeking a great ItalianAmerican family dining experience at a reasonable price.

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The Dining Guide

CHATTERBOX RESTAURANT Big. Pink. Legendary. 500 9th Street, 399-0113. See ad page 10.

Bill Godfrey’s useful, slightly quirky guide to dining out in and around Ocean City ALL NATURAL AWARD WINNING PIZZA The name says it all. Good stuff. 1136 Asbury Avenue, 391-2212. BENNIE’S BREAD AND ROLLS Magnificent bread, Italian pastries, cakes, and Italian pie – yum! 1159 Asbury Avenue, 398-9450. BERENATO’S CORNER DELI Joe told me to put him in the guide – or else. Please go eat there. Or else. 47 Atlantic Avenue, 3992751. BLOOM ‘N TULIP A full menu of fantastic fare, just steps from the beach. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner. 1001 Ocean Avenue, 399-4953.

BOYAR’S MARKET Famous for their party trays, they also have great sandwiches for a smaller crowd. 1340 Asbury Avenue, 3981343. BROWN’S RESTAURANT Unbelievably fresh donuts. Breakfast and lunch. Stand behind the yellow line for your safety – lotta traffic on the boards in the morn. St. Charles and Boardwalk, 391-0677. CAFE BEACH CLUB Outstanding views and great food. 1280 Boardwalk, 398-7700. CASA DEL DOLCE House of Sweets. 947 Asbury, 398-9300.

COUSIN’S RESTAURANT – Varied and sophisticated menu. Outside dining too. 104 Asbury, 399-9462. See ad page 11. DEL’S OCEANSIDE GRILL – A top-notch menu sure to please adults and the kiddies too. Great food on the Boardwalk. 934 Boardwalk, 399-3931. See ad page 35. DEFUSCO’S TRATTORIA New this year. But owner/chef Lou De Fusco makes great stuff so we’re waiting with anticipation. 8th and Asbury in the Crown Bank building. p Continued on page 10

Al Dente’s Five Food Finds Breakfast bites around the OC in May

Pecan coffe cake at Positively Fourth Street

Sausage gravy over homemade biscuits at OC Surf Cafe

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Cranberry Walnut muffins at Bennie’s Bread and Rolls

Ocean City

Warm cinnamon sugar donuts at Brown’s

Scones at Who’s on First

The Dining Guide p From page 9

EMILY’S OCEAN ROOM CAFÉ At the famous Flanders Hotel. Open year round. 719 E. 11th Street, 398-5700. EXPRESS PIZZA & SUBS My friend Travis swears by this place – and I trust Travis. 719 E. 11th Street, 398-5700. FLIPPERS GRILLE Outside on the pool deck at the Port-O-Call Hotel. Burgers and such with nice outside tables. Perfect if you want to take a break from the beach. Lovely views. 1510 Boardwalk, 399-8812. F&M RESTAURANT Good food and a nice outside dining area on Asbury Avenue. 1200 Asbury Avenue, 391-0800. GEORGE’S CANDIES AND BREAKFAST GRILL Fantastic breakfasts, even better

macaroons (it’s true). Great ice cream too. 700 Boardwalk, 398-4444.

LUIGI’S ITALIAN RESTAURANT Can’t miss this place as you come into town. 300 Ninth Street, 399-4937.

HULA RESTAURANT AND SAUCE COMPANY Great cook, great staff, great food. Breakfast, lunch and dinner from 8am-9pm. Shakkah brah. One of the best. 940 Boardwalk, 399-2400. See ad on inside cover.

MACK & MANCO PIZZA An Ocean City icon. Three locations on the boards. 7th, 9th, and 12th streets. 399-2548. MCGLADE’S ON THE BAY Great deck, great food. 228 Bay Avenue, 399-5588.

ISLAND GRILL A wide variety of seafood and steaks, big dining rooms. Exotic game menu too. 100 Atlantic, 391-9616. See ad page 6.

OCEAN CITY COFFEE COMPANY The prefect cup of coffee. Fresh noshes too. 928 Boardwalk, 399-5533.

JAY’S CRABSHACK Awesome crabcakes, Old Bay fries, kid friendly, cute staff. Go Huskies. 737 Asbury, 399-4022.

OC SURF CAFÉ - Very good – so good it’s “sick.” Surf inspired cuisine in a cute setting. 715 8th Street, 391-9555.

JOHNNY B. GOODE ICE CREAM PARLOR My in-laws love this place – and I love my in-laws. 14th and Asbury, 525-0646. See ad next page.

OVES SEAFOOD RESTAURANT Awesome. Seafood for breakfast, lunch and dinner. I like it. 4th and Boardwalk, 398-3712.

ThE varsiTy inn Great Kids Menu Open daily for B & L! Garden Salads - Cinnamon Bun French Toast - Homemade Soups and Chili - Varisty Burgers 605 8th Street, OC 609-399-1500 for take out

An Open Air American Bistro

voltaco’s Italian Foods to Take Out

lasagna • Baked Ziti • Hoagie Trays • Chicken Parm • Subs Cheesesteaks

957 West Avenue, OC

609-399-0753•609-399-0743

Same Family Owned Since 1954

Ocean City

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The Dining Guide THE PINK PARROT GRILLE Great ocean views at the Port-O-Call Hotel. Kid friendly but tasty enough for the adults in your group. Breakfast and lunch. 1510 Boardwalk, 399-8812. PINO’S GRILLE AND TRATTORIA Fresh and tasty Italian food. 3401 Asbury, 3995575. PREP’S PIZZERIA AND DAIRY BAR Superior thin-crust pizza. Sandwiches and salads too. Plus an ice cream bar! Lots of seats as well. 1004 Boardwalk, 398-0636. RANDAZZO’S RESTAUARNT Pizza, steaks, hoagies and fine Italian food at two locations. Asbury Avenue between 7th and 8th streets and 34th and West Avenue, 814-1600. READY’S COFFEE SHOP Old school. Really good old school. 415 8th Street, 399-4418.

RED’S JERSEY-MEX Superior Mexican/ Southwest food. Other local chefs eat here. That’s always a good sign. 11th and Haven, 399-2272.

UNCLE BILL’S PANCAKE HOUSE An Ocean City favorite. Legendary breakfasts and lunches too. Two locations. 2112 Asbury, 40th and West, 398-7393.

SACK O’ SUBS Subs of course. Sacks optional. Really yummy good food. 926 Asbury Avenue, 525-0460.

VARSITY INN A locals’ favorite. Open every day till 2pm. 605 E. 8th Street, 399-1500. See ad page 10.

SCULLY’S ASBURY CAFÉ Ocean City’s newest family tradition. Breakfast, lunch and dinner. Try the ahi tuna rolls. 955 Asbury Avenue, 391-1111.

VOLTACO’S What? You didn’t already know about this place? Now you do. Great Italian food. 957 West Avenue, 399-0753. See ad page 10.

SZECHWAN GARDEN Best Chinese place on the island. 503 9th Street, 398-5456.

WARDS PASTRY Freshly baked goodies and treats – now that’s what vacation is all about! 730 Asbury Avenue, 3991260.

THE SINDIA RESTAURANT Great American cuisine and your meal includes everything – dessert too (really good dessert). Serving breakfast, lunch and dinner. New outside deck too. 801 Plymouth Place, 399-1997.

YIANNI’S CAFE Fresh and delicious. Inspired by the Island of Crete, Yianni’s birthplace. 841 Asbury Avenue, 391-1113.

Family Entertainment Nights malts • shakes • sundaes • cones

Karoake, Sock Hops and Magic Shows!

14th & Asbury

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Ocean City

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•Barks on the Boards - Noon MEMORIAL DAY Music Pier •Huw Priday Tenor Concert •Memorial Day Service - 11am - 7pm Tabernacle 30 Veteran’s Park 31

•Martin Z. Mollusk Day - 11am 9th Street Beach

•Unlocking of the Ocean and Business Persons Plunge - Noon. Moorlyn Terrace & Beach

For more information and details on all events, visit www.ocnj.us

•Walk For Lupus Now - 10am Music Pier Moorlyn Terrace & Boardwalk •Ocean City Triathlon/ Duathlon 6am-Noon

•Mother’s Day Flower Giveaway at Boardwalk & Downtown Shops

MOTHER’S DAY

mayevents 1

•Saturday Movie at Library Annex - 2pm

•American Heart Assoc. HeartWalk •Saturday Movie at Library Annex - 2pm •NYC Bus Trip - departs at 8am at 10th & Haven

•Saturday Movie at Library Annex - 2pm

•Spring Fling Alumni Day and Flower Sale at Humane Society - 10-2pm 1 Shelter Rd. •Saturday Movie at Library Annex - 2pm •Mother’s Day Flower Giveaway at Boardwalk & Downtown Shops 8

•Spring Block Party - 9am Downtown 5th - 14th streets •Boardwalk and Downtown Merchant Table Sales •Saturday Movie at Library Annex - 2pm

Soifer’s Seven

May’s Must-Attend Events

OC Publicist Mark Soifer’s list of events to attend in the month of May

May kicks off with the city’s popular mile-long Spring Block Party, Saturday, May 1. Established in 1983, Block Party has grown into one of the largest events of its kind at the Jersey Shore featuring over 300 crafters, an array of food, entertainment, a new car show and free pony rides for the children. Event hours are 9am till 5pm. The festival extends from 5th to 14th streets on Asbury Avenue in the Downtown. Store owners feature specials, one-of-a-kind crafters offer loads of interesting items. Entry is free. Boardwalk merchants tie into the event with table sales May 1-2 from 6th to 14th streets on the boards.

Martin Z. Mollusk Day, Thursday, May 6. The city’s relatively famous hermit crab creeps out onto the th 9 Street Beach at 11am and attempts to see his shadow. If he does, summer comes a week early to this family resort. The Ocean City High School Band plays “Pomp and Circumstance” as characters follow Martin to the beach. This has been going on since 1974 and Martin has always seen his shadow.

Mother’s Day Weekend, May 89. Mothers are always special in Ocean City, named the Number One Family Beach Resort in the Nation by the Travel Channel. All moms are presented flowers at participating Boardwalk and D o w n t o w n stores during the weekend.

Ocean City provides its Boardwalk and facilities to over 30 charitable

Ocean City

organizations for fundraising walks during the year. In May, there are two: The Walk for Lupus on May 16 and the American Heart Association Walk May 22. For information, call the Public Relations Office, (609) 525-9300.

Barks on the Boards is one of the few opportunities you have to walk your dog on the Boardwalk and benefit the Ocean City Humane Society, a no-kill shelter. Event starts at noon, May 30 in front of the Music Pier, Boardwalk and Moorlyn Terrace. There’s a pet contest and lots of fun for the doggies and you, too. Entry fee is $15. Registration starts 11:30am. Call (609) 398-4200 or go to www.hsocnj. org.

6 7

The City’s Annual Memorial Day Service will be held on May 31, starting 11am at Veterans Memorial Park, 5th and Wesley Avenue. Business Person’s Plunge into the Ocean on May 28 at noon, call (609) 525-9300, free Saturday movies at Ocean City Library, call (609) 525-9444, Ext. 351, free Huw Priday Tenor Concert at Tabernacle, May 30, call (609) 399-1915. For a list of Ocean City 2010 events and concerts, go to www. ocnj.us or call (609) 525-9300.

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Local Ocean

Chamber of Commerce Meeting March 15, 2010

Midge Grunstra and Nicholas Marotta

David Repici and Mike Lloyd

Councilman Keith Hartzell and Councilwoman Susan Sheppard

Jane Davis, Pam Grites, Jennifer Simon, Eric Weeks, Erin Visalli, Rudy Foschi

Aimee Schultz, Marcia Shallcross, Shawnda McGinnis, Flat Lauren, Barbara Brown

William J. McMahon Jr., Maura McMahon Primus, Scott Halliday, Tom Aromando, U.S. Representative Frank LoBiondo, Bill McMahon, Michele Gillian, Kim Davidson

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Ocean City

Stef’s Must Haves

DOWNTOWN 16

Ocean City

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT 1. Hobo wallets from Flying Carp Clothing Gallery. Say it with me, “ruching is my friend.” It’s fabulous even on wallets as seen here. $72. 745 Asbury Avenue, (609) 391-1546. 2. Hand-crafted chocolates from Laura’s Fudge. Yes, sugar, I love you. Especially when you’re in the form of dark chocolate truffles and white chocolate bark with chocolate chips. $16.99/lb. 935 Asbury Avenue, (609) 399-0616. 3. Hopscotch from Butterfly Boutique. Somehow my handrawn hopscotch boards don’t look quite so cute as this foam version. Or so pink. Hop on. $25. 943 Asbury Avenue, (609) 391-0812. 4. Le Mystere bra from Gabrielle & Co. This bra should be mandatory for every woman. I’ve never looked or felt better while I wear it. Say bra! $60. 810 Asbury Avenue, (609) 3991008. 5. Fabulous turned leg chair from Interiors By Joann. Walking into this shop is like being in heaven. A gorgeous, seriously well-appointed heaven. Really, that’s what it should be, no? The legs have casters too! $1699. 757 Asbury Avenue, (609) 399-4600. 6. Antique glasses from Two Tin Crows. Whether you scoop in ice cream or pour some simple water, these amazingly detailed glasses make everything more special. How fab is the square base? So! $15.99 each. 754 Asbury Avenue, (609) 391-1998. 7. Brazilian agate coasters from JaTori Gems. Just when you think coasters are ho hum, out comes these intricate beauties. Full of passion and color. Sorta like you! $55/set of 4. 920 Asbury Avenue, (609) 391-6571.

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The Shopping Guide PHONES

DOWNTOWN

WE R WIRELESS Your local premium Verizon Wireless Retailer. Great selection and customer service. 641 Asbury, 545-8731. See ad page 47. ANTIQUES & COLLECTIBLES

THE GINGHAM WHALE Antiques, Shore Things and a lot more. 636 Asbury, 391-0996. See ad this page. BICYCLES ANNARELLI’S BICYCLES A huge selection of bikes; repairs. 1014 Asbury, 399-2238. BOOKS/CDS/OFFICE SUN ROSE WORDS & MUSIC Your best source for books, music, CDs and office supplies. 756 Asbury, 399-9190. CANDY

LAURA’S FUDGE A very sweet treat, made with the finest ingredients. 935 Asbury, 399-0616. See ad page 20.

La Bottine Boutique 1033 Asbury Ave. OC (609) 399-6400

Jersey Girl Jewelry Franco Sarto Chinese Laundry Latico Bags Sacha Too

CHILDREN’S APPAREL SEA OATS CHILDREN’S SHOP, 710 Asbury, 398-8399.

THE FLYING CARP GIFT GALLERY A special selection of handcrafted jewelry, cards and gifts. 939 Asbury, 464-2608.

DEPARTMENT STORES B&B DEPARTMENT STORE Big selection, great prices, open year round. 827 Asbury, 391-0046.

IRELAND IMPORTS It’s everything Irish. 711 Asbury, 398-1948.

DOLLS KAY JAY’S DOLL SHOPPE, 737 Asbury, 399-5632.

LADIES APPAREL THE FLYING CARP CLOTHING GALLERY Comfort, quality, timeless design and lots of imagination. 745 Asbury, 391-1546.

FLORIST THE MANIC BOTANIC Voted Best of “The Knot” 2010. 917 Asbury, 391-0311.

DOODLES 714 Asbury, 398-1226.

SPINNING WHEEL, 858 Asbury, 398-1157.

GABRIELLE & CO. A fabulous collection of beautiful things from around the globe. 810 Asbury, 399-1008. See ad page 18.

GIFTS/CARDS/CANDLES/JEWELRY THE BUTTERFLY BOUTIQUE Kids crafts and gifts, specialty invitations, wedding gifts and more. 943 Asbury, 391-0812.

LA BOTTINE BOUTIQUE Stylish shoes, accessories, jewelry, home accents. 1033 Asbury, 399-6400. See ad this page.

P. FRANCIS Heirloom-quality gifts and more. Mariposa. 709 Asbury, 399-5570.

p Continued on page 19

Stylish Shoes Accessories Jewelry Home Accents

The Gingham Whale

Antiques Shore Things Folk Art Furniture Country Cottage Gifts

636 Asbury Ave. Ocean City 609-391-0996

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Ocean City

Want to look 10 pounds lighter and 10 years younger? (We’ll let you in on the secret)

buy bras for your body type Come in to Gabrielle & Co. today for a professional bra fitting and leave looking great and feeling fabulous. 810 Asbury Avenue, Ocean City • www.gabrielleandco.com • 609-399-1008

The Shopping Guide p From page 17

COULD BE YOURS CONSIGNMENT SHOP An awesome collection of name brand clothing at low prices. 716 Asbury, 703-4457.

SURF/WATER SPORTS/ ATHLETIC WEAR HARBOR OUTFITTERS 625 Asbury, 9380175. SNEAKER SHOP 846 Asbury, 391-5223.

TA-DAH 4 stores: 925, 1026, 1028 & 1040 Asbury. 398-6771.

VARIETY STORE & BEACH ITEMS HOYS 5 & 10, 7th & Asbury, 398-HOYS.

COLETTE 900 Asbury, 525-0911.

ISLAND BEACH GEAR 9th & Bay, 7883836.

DONNA GAY DILLON BOUTIQUE 725 Asbury, 399-0082. PAPPAGALLO 744 Asbury, 398-4009. SEASONS OF COLOR / CITRUS 810 Asbury, 398-8100. SOMETHING OLD SOMETHING NEW BRIDAL SHOPPE 1020 Asbury, 399-9340. BEAUTY LINDSY JAMES SALON, 945 Asbury, 5259900.

THINGS TO DO DOWNTOWN GILLIAN’S, 838B Asbury, 391-0060. GLAZED OVER Make your own pottery. Great for kids and adults. 854 Asbury, 398-8880. KIDZ CREATIONS, 811 Asbury, 399-9922 BOARDWALK BIKE/STUFF YOU FORGOT/RENTALS SURF BUGGY CENTERS Two locations; 8th

& 12th and Boardwalk. Cribs, strollers, TVs, coolers, AND bikes (and more). 976-5679. JEWELRY JEWELRY HUT Great owners, superior jewelry. Sunglasses too. 1308 Boardwalk, 399-9634. HENRY’S Ocean City’s Landmark Jeweler. 1236 Boardwalk, (800) 214-4435. FASHION THE SPOT BY JILLY’S Style, attitude, vintage tees, sunglasses and great brands. 762 and 1066 Boardwalk, 385-1234. DOLLAR STORE JILLY’S 99 CENT STORE 99 cents! 1044 Boardwalk, 399-1234. T-SHIRTS JILLY’S T-SHIRT FACTORY Get your Phillies at Jilly’s, personalized tees too. 936 and 1048 Boardwalk, 385-1234. p Continued on page 42

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Ocean City

Trends

Suzanne Matura LA BOTTINE

Suede shoes, espadrilles and clandestine carry ons are hot for spring

E VISITED one of our favorite stores, La Bottine Boutique on Asbury Avenue and asked owner Suzanne Matura her thoughts on the upcoming spring fashion trends. We learned that suede is now acceptable for spring shoes and that espadrilles are back! And if the thought of a $50 charge for a carry-on bag makes you upset, Suzanne has a stylish solution for you!

Suzanne Matura and the mock croc. Opposite Page: Espadrilles

OCmag: Hey, these are very nice bags! Suzanne: Well, now that the airlines have decided to charge for carry-ons, this is the perfect bag to take on a trip. They’re large enough to be a carry-on, but are definitely a handbag. And they fit under the seat. It’s the perfect way to get around the carry-on charge. Plus they look great.

Ocean city

Through the eyes of an artist

Marie natale mariedezines@comcast.net Meet the Artist (609) 399-7628 reception

July 9th, 6:30-8:30pm oceAn city Arts center July 2– July 31, 2010 1735 simpson Avenue, ocean city

Candies • Salt Water Taffy • Fudge Cookies • Choc-Covered fruit Novelty Candy • Macaroons

•

www.marienatale.com

For clAsses, workshops, coMMissions cAll MArie (609)-214-9905

Fine Chocolates, Gift Baskets, US Shipping, Party Trays

1136 Boardwalk, 34th & West, 935 Asbury (609) 399-0616

Ocean City

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Trends OCmag: Who makes them? Suzanne: They are made by Sax in four colors; banana yellow, raspberry, lime, robins egg blue and white. They’re patent leather mock-croc, AND they come with matching wallets!

their flip flops. We also have flip flops by Chinese Laundry with memory foam, meaning you’ll never get a foot impression in your flip flop. The Bernardo flip flops have a special arch support, very nice.

OCmag: What’s new in spring shoes? Suzanne: Two years ago they brought in patent leather for winter. This year they’re bringing suede for spring. So there are suede shoes for spring and summer. These are fabulous Anne Klein, modified wedges – a wedge is a very stable shoe – blue leather with white stitching. This modified arch is giving it a whole new look. Espadrilles are back. We have several nice pairs, including a pair that are black with white polka dot bows and a white pair with black polka dot bows. Cute!

OCmag: What’s your favorite spot in Ocean City? Suzanne: That’s a hard one. The beach is my number one spot.

OCmag: Summertime is flip flop time… Suzanne: Of course we have flip flops. We have fabulous flip flops by Yellow Box – they always put a special little twist on

OCmag: Favorite place to eat? Suzanne: Scully’s. Excellent food.

OCmag: Favorite beach? Suzanne: When my kids were younger it was North Street, because there was food there and a bathroom. These days I prefer going down by the bridge because it’s quiet and the beach is expansive so you’re not on top of each other. That’s my favorite now.

p Nature Tours p Kayak/SUP Rentals p Hobie Cat Rentals p Sailing Lessons p Kids Sailing Camp

On the Bay at 316 Bay Avenue, Ocean City (609) 391-7960

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Ocean City

In the Salt Spray

An OC Eco-Tour Adventure By Stefanie Godfrey Photos by Bill Stuempfig

AM a chicken. Not in an existential way or something far out like that, just in a “bawk bawk” scaredy cat fashion. So, when my husband Bill asked me to take a kayak tour of the back bays of Ocean City my first reaction was, “Yay! I can’t wait.” There is something to the art of faking it. Inside I was instantly petrified. To ordinary folks with low levels of neurosis, hopping into a kayak with a paddle and an open stretch of calm waters would inspire peace and relaxation. To me it inspired fear. What if my kayak tumbled over and I couldn’t get back on?! What if while I was standing in the water a crab (or worse) walked over my foot?! Has anyone ever walked a kayak back across the bay? Breathe Steffie breathe. Let it be known that I’ve never been on a kayak before. That gives me some cred, no? I’ve been a passenger on power boats, relaxing and eating a peanut butter and fluff sandwich while cruising the open water with shades, sun and smiles. Being on the water now, though, with no power but my own arms, I was scared of the power boats with the careless, sun drenched sandwich-eating people. What if they ran into me? Or worse, toppled me with their crazy waves? See above paragraphs. Neurosis be damned. On a warmish September day, I drove myself to Bay Cats, got out of the car, and walked straight in to the rustic (and totally cool) little shack on Bay Avenue and introduced myself – suppressing the anxiety like an Oscar winner. I’d like to thank my wonderful husband... oh wait, isn’t this all his fault? Don at Bay Cats has some kind of something about him

that put me at ease. Maybe it was his wry smile, tanned face, chill attitude. Maybe it was the way his eyes sparkled when he spoke of sailing, boating and the water. Whatever it was, my blood pressure lowered with each minute spent in his company. He’s been one with the bay for many years and seems like he hasn’t lost a toe to any rogue crabs. Or worse creatures. Bay Cats, as you can imagine, sits right on the bay, so there was no turning back. The kayak about to become my home for the next two hours was sitting colorful and happy waiting to take the plunge. And, I guess, so was I. During my chat with Don pre-tour, I peeked around Bay Cats. It’s as salty as the sea, with tons of stuff for your eyes to spy – sunfaded Hobie posters, cool back bay maps, a Krups tea kettle with accompanying box of Rosebud tea, anchors, sails, and a well-worn hat. Woah. A hat. That’s probably a big necessity. As I pondered this, I turned to look out at the bay and sure enough, the sun was glaring right back. Oh boy, rookie mistake. How can I sit out on a kayak for two hours in the sun without some protection for my face? Don must’ve seen this conversation happening in my head and as any true gentleman would, he offered his hat. “Here – you can use mine,” said Don, graciously handing over the ecru-colored wide brim with chin strap. Shortly thereafter, Captain Bill Stuempfig came rolling in a little late and a little bleary. Why? p Continued on page 24

An immature osprey flexes its wings

Double-crested cormorants take flight as a seagull looks on from above. p From page 23

“I went to see ZZ Top last night,” he said. Bill is a self-named Bay Rat. He and Don have been cruising the back bays for loads of years and have the sun-drenched faces and serious bay knowledge as proof. As Bill settled in, I introduced myself to the two other people we’d be touring with. Loren and Sylvia, from Doylestown, Pennsylvania, were experienced kayakers. They reassured me this was fun and before I knew it, we were all striding towards the dock. Bill outfitted us with life preservers and paddles, took a blue kayak down, placed it in the water and told me to get in. Hmmm. It’s not as easy as it may seem. But there’s a trick, Bill said. Take your paddle, put it on the dock perpendicular to the kayak, sit down and use it as leverage to hoist yourself in. Okay, that wasn’t so bad. “You go first and we’ll be in the water in about two minutes,” said Bill. And at that point, I’m pretty sure my heart stopped beating for a fraction of time. He was leaving me alone in the water? “Cool,” said I, ensuring another Oscar nom. Very quickly, the kayak was taken away from the dock and

moving around dangerously close to the open bay. So I put the paddle in the water and can you guess what happened? I crashed right into a docked boat. But that was my learning curve and it wasn’t that bad. After my recovery, I rocked the paddle with ease. Bill, Loren and Sylvia got in and off we went into the wild blue yonder. We started straight out of Bay Cats, and as we approached the 9th Street Bridge, we turned left and went underneath, passing the floating cranes and barge set up for construction. Next we went into a small throughway on the other side of the bridge. Once there, we were out of boat range. That area was nice and water sorta calm. Since I was now an experienced kayaker, I knew to face the waves head on and paddle right through them. It’s the paddle that keeps the kayak steady, Bill told me. Nice. Not so nice? The pebble sized blister I burned onto my thumb doing said paddling. After we paddled to the throughway past the 9th Street Bridge and spotted osprey, terns, and a heron in the phragmities and marsh, Loren and Sylvia asked Bill where he kayaks when he’s alone. “Since Stef is a strong paddler, I can show you,” Bill said.

Score one for me. Off we went to the right and clear across the bay. It was during this part of the trek that I felt like a Leni-Lenape – totally at one with nature. Once over toward Somers Point, we passed under the 9th Street Bridge again, but this time were treated to a falcon spotting. It was just hanging out on top of one of the giant concrete pilings in the shadows of the bridge above. As we approached one of the bigger islands in the back bay, we paddled close to marsh edge, and saw a tri-colored heron and some cute fish. As we made our way along, Captain Bill found a channel to go down, though it wasn’t one that went all the way through. “Let’s go,” he said, “and you go first.” “What? No. Are you serious?” I asked. “Yes. Go.” So I went, paddling through the tiny channel, sweeping past the soggy marshes with Loren, Sylvia and Bill behind. We glided through looking for turtles (didn’t see any), enjoying the schools of teeny tiny fish swimming to our left. The water was shallow (did you know a kayak can float in 6 inches of water?) and the marshes tall. We winded to the back of the channel and turned around. I didn’t navigate back as well as I did to. Still, I did okay. The next channel was one that cut through, but it was much more narrow and according to the Captain, required a bit more finesse. I got this. Again I pulled the lead and started moving. “Slow down,” directed Bill. This isn’t a race? “Lean out and pull the paddle wide.”

Above: Black crowned night heron. Below: Tri-colored heron

Once I chilled, I enjoyed the ride more, and with Bill’s direction was able to steer just fine and turn the kayak with ease. As the channel opened into the back bay, the waters started getting rough. But this tiny ship and its inhabitant were far from lost. Scared kinda, but not lost. I did yoga breaths and kept my paddle in the water to keep steady. The sounds of the waves hitting the marsh break were calming and the open bay was glistening. Keeping our company was a giant osprey to the right on the marsh edge. Seeing wildlife up close and personal on their turf is a really awesome experience. After taking in the sight of the osprey, our group headed off back across the bay toward Bay Cats. We veered left as we took off to avoid a precarious looking pack of wild waverunners. Once the way was clear we pushed on through the waves and pull of the current. We began heading right so the tide would take us directly into Bay Cats. In we went to the dock and off the kayak. Quite gracefully, I must say. So goes the story of my first kayak experience in the back bays of Ocean City. Out there is a different land with loads of cool characters. It’s one that constantly changes with each incoming and outgoing tide. To take your own eco-tour adventure, call Don at Bay Cats, (609) 391-7960. The island view from the bridge may beckon beach , boards and bathing suits, but the view from a kayak inspires peace and adventure on the open seas. Aren’t we lucky to be able to experience both?

Hole Lotta Love By Laura Kiniry

Photos by Bill Godfrey

N ANY given summer morning, the north end of Ocean City’s Boardwalk between St. Charles Place and 1st Street is bustling. Neighbors chat about the most recent thunderstorm and Hamels’ latest slump. Couples clad in flip-flops and running shoes sip coffee from steaming cups, and occasionally a bicyclist or two carve their way through the crowd. Overall, the mood is jovial, as if this were the scene of a company picnic rather than a line of hungry people waiting to be fed. Maybe the mix of sea breeze and warm sun is softening dispositions. But my gut feeling? IT’S THE DONUTS.

OR MORE than three decades, Brown’s Restaurant has been one of Ocean City’s goto establishments for warm, dense donuts - glazed, rolled, dipped, smelling of chocolate and cinnamon - that melt in your mouth. Literally. These showstoppers are famous as far away as Massachusetts and Hawaii, and have become as much of a local staple as a bucket of Johnson’s Popcorn or a Mack & Manco slice. “I love that they are made fresh on the spot and have a nice cake consistency,” says Becky Thai, a 26-year-old med school graduate from California and bonafide Brown’s fan. “The homemade flavor isn’t overpowering with sweetness. Overall, they’re really well-made donuts.” PennsylvaniateachersHarmonandMarjorieBrownfirstopened Brown’s in 1976, though neither had any restaurant experience at the time. “They figured, what better thing to do with five kids—let’s try and open a restaurant,” says daughterin-law Melissa Brown, laughingly. “It was small enough that I think it wasn’t intimidating for them.” The couple purchased a tiny mom & pop eatery, which they nicknamed “the shack,” along the Boardwalk’s north end, and began serving breakfast and lunch. Harmon later bought a donut machine for variety. It was this investment that would ultimately catapult Brown’s to local landmark status. “The first thing we did when we arrived in Ocean City was wait in line for [Brown’s donuts],” says Becky, “and it was the last thing we did before we left.” Brown’s fried-to-order donuts come in six flavors: plain, honey, vanilla, chocolate, powdered sugar, and the undisputable favorite, cinnamon sugar; and can be ordered individually or in bulk togo. While they’re both satisfying and addicting, Melissa says the true key to the donut’s success is the quality and consistency of their ingredients. “Mom and Dad taught us from the beginning. Everything has to be fresh, and it has to be homemade.” Over the next couple decades, Harmon and Marjorie Brown continued teaching in Pennsylvania during the school year – returning to Ocean City each summer to run the restaurant, staying in rental homes and at Whippoorwill Campground before eventually retiring and buying a place of their own. They renovated Brown’s in 1994, uprooting the original shack and replacing it with a larger 100-seat space, complete with enclosed porch. “I think that’s when they decided they bit off more than they could chew,” says Melissa. So the couple asked their son Jim, who had started his own restaurant in North Carolina, if he and Melissa would like

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to help run the place. They said yes. “I moved here sight unseen,” says Melissa. “I’m originally from Bergen County, but LBI is as far south as we went. I told Jim, I’ve never heard of Ocean City. And he was like, are you kidding me? Now I love it.” Jim and Melissa bought the restaurant from Harmon and Marjorie in 1995, and the elder couple moved on to running Ocean City’s Brown’s Nostalgia Bed & Breakfast, which they continue to operate. Of course, their lush, namesake donuts are served there too. Today, Brown’s remains very much a family establishment. Jim’s brother Dave often comes by to help with cooking, while nieces and nephews lend a hand busing tables when in town. Even the regular staff returns annually. “I don’t remember the last time I’ve had to hire someone,” says Melissa. “If I get a new employee it’s usually a worker’s cousin or their brother. One time I had three brothers working for us.” Along with its donuts, Brown’s has earned a quality reputation for its breakfasts, which include waffles and omelettes; and lunches, most notably Sloppy Joes and burgers—the latter a favorite of tri-state food critic Craig LaBan. “We get our meat at Boyar’s Market on Asbury Avenue,” says Melissa, “and our burgers are simple. It’s not like we put all these things into them.” The patties are also homemade, which she says helps their popularity. “It sounds silly, but there’s something about the salt air and cooking it on a grill. We try to cook with the same meat at home [in Upper Township] and we don’t get the same thing.” Brown’s also serves a specialty item that until a little more than a year ago was known only to the local community: Freakies—misshaped clumps of fried batter that didn’t survive the donut hopper; too disproportioned to sell, but just as magnificent to consume. Says Melissa: “For years we’d put them in a bag, and the kids and surfers would know to come in and we’d just give them away.” Then LaBan caught wind and turned them into a regional sensation. Now at a dollar a bag, Freakies remain an excellent bargain, but are somewhat harder to come by. “Everyone asks for them,” she says. “It’s pretty neat.” Despite the enlarged space and long lines, customers can expect the same value and reliability that first put Brown’s on the OC map in the 1970s. In fact, it’s only been a couple years since the restaurant acquired a second donut machine. “Before we had to limit the amount of donuts because we just couldn’t keep up,” says Melissa, “but now customers can get as many as they want.” She adds, almost as an afterthought, “these days we’re selling a lot more donuts from when mom and dad started the business.”

Ocean City

so you think you can lifeguard? By Bill Godfrey

O YOU think you can lifeguard? I applaud your decision. Go for it, I say. The Ocean City Beach Patrol is a well-respected and storied institution with an impeccable record. And lifeguarding looks like a really cool summer job. Being a lifeguard means you get to earn some cash while being at the beach, and most of the time you’re sitting at the beach. But there’s more to it than just learning how to blow that distinctive whistle that crescendos across the waves and tells swimmers they’ve strayed too far from the designated swimming area. And it’s not Frankie and Annette at the beach with throngs of admirers gawking at your biceps either. Yeah, there’s a little more to it than that. “It’s a great summer job,” said Charles “Charlie” Bowman, OCBP deputy chief. “It’s also a very serious job that should be taken very seriously.” If you think you can lifeguard, here’s your chance. The physical test that is the first step toward earning a spot on the OCBP is Saturday, June 12 and Sunday, June 13. All you have to do is sign up. Well, signing up is probably the easy part. Passing it is a bit

Aaron Kaminski, a senior at St. Augustine Prep in Egg Harbor Township, who’s about to enter his third year as a guard at the ripe age of 18. Count on the ocean being pretty cold if you decide to take the test. “You need to be acclimated to the ocean water,” said Paul Mangen, a veteran OCBP guard and the coordinator of the Rookie School. “We get some great swimmers who are great in the pool, but the ocean is a very different place. There are a lot of variables involved with this job. The pool is very sterile; the ocean is a much more dynamic place.” After the swim comes a singles row of approximately 150 yards in the ocean or bay (you should probably practice for this event too.) Followed by rescue drills (also known as a can run or surf dash). Rescue drills consist of running into the water with a rescue buoy (or can) and sprinting to a flag approximately 100 to 150 yards out in the ocean. And finally there’s a personal interview with candidates who pass the physical performance portion of the test. Think you got what it takes?

more difficult. “I swam in high school and I still swim in college and the rookie test was still pretty hard,” said Craig Dotti from Delran. Dotti had passed the test and was going through rookie school when I talked to him. The test consists of several events – each one requiring superior physical fitness and a bit of mental toughness (think swimming in 50 degree ocean water doesn’t require mental toughness? Think again). The first part of the test is a half-mile run that needs to be completed in three minutes and 45 seconds, or less. You must pass this event in order to continue the testing process. Next is an ocean swim covering approximately a half-mile. The OCBP is, after all, an ocean-rescue unit. “The water was extremely cold when I took my test,” said

“You definitely need to train; It’s no joke,” said Kaminski. “You have to know how to swim and you need to practice rowing. There’s also a lot of competition, so you have to want it.” You have to want it. That sounds about right. But suppose you do get an invitation to Rookie School, then what? Well, if you do, your journey is only just beginning. “You’ll meet a network of friends that will last a lifetime,” said Bowman. “It’s a great summer job and you’ll get a great education in rescue and medical knowledge that can save someone’s life. But at some point you will be required to save someone from the ocean or perform CPR on a patient. You will also be required to sit and monitor people for hours at a time, sometimes in the hot sun and sometimes in the freezing cold and wind. If you can do that or think you can do that, then try out,” said Bowman.

Like becoming a policeman or fireman (or a journalist), this job is not for everybody. But for those who choose this path, these people sure make it look fun. “The best part of being a guard is waking up on a beautiful summer morning knowing that while the rest of the world may be trudging along to work, you are lucky enough to go to work where you get to swim in the ocean, laugh with your friends, and thoroughly enjoy your day,” said Ryan Dunn, an Ocean City native entering his 14th year on the patrol. “And when those cool, west wind, blue sky, summer days role in, take a moment to look around. You’ll really appreciate this job.” But first you have to get through Rookie School. “It’s a five-day program; half of each day is physical stuff, including paddleboarding, surf dash, and rowing,” said Mangen. “The other half is learning standard operating procedures. There’s a lot of stuff to get in. First aid training such as CPR, O2, spinal injuries, as well as other lifeguard scenarios. I met up with Paul and his Rookie School candidates during the 2009 program in

mid-June. When I saw them on the beach, it was a cold, wet day and what was going down was definitely not the glamorous, sunfilled, sexy job you see on Baywatch. “Yeah. It’s not really like that,” said Tom Mullineaux, OCBP operations chief. These kids were working. One group was sprinting into the ocean, swimming south a few hundred yards, emerging from the water and running back. And then they’d do it again. Another group was working on their paddleboarding skills. It looked cold. “The weather’s a little depressing today, but once you’re wet it’s not a big deal,” said Dotti (Mangen let me pull Dotti aside for

a quick chat in between surf dashes). Dotti attends The College of New Jersey. “During Rookie School we’re getting in the basics; paddleboarding, can-rescue, rowing. I’m hoping to have a good, safe summer and meet some people.” “Start swimming early,” advised Mangen, who got started with the OCBP about 10 years ago. “Find out when the rowing clinics are and get acclimated to the ocean water.” Did I mention that the ocean water in June can be quite cold? And that the rookie test is no joke? “You have to be used to the water temp because it was really cold when we tried out,” said Laura Mastrangelo, 20, a Philadelphia native who swims for La Salle University. “You should definitely try to row before you come out too.” Getting a spot on the beach patrol is not an easy task, but the good things in life are never easy. And from all the lifeguards I’ve talked to, it seems that the pain is worth the payoff. “The best part of the job is spending summers on the beach in the sun! It’s the best possible job anyone could ever ask for,” said Kaitlyn Minehan, an Ocean City native who’s entering her fifth year on the beach patrol. “We can protect beach patrons while feeling the warmth of the sun on our faces and we can get some relief in the waves of the ocean. It’s not just another summer job – you can find lifelong friends here. I’ve had the best summers guarding with Ocean City’s finest; competing and supporting races, and meeting some of the best our city has to offer.” Okay, it’s fun. But it can’t be that easy either. “Being a member of the beach patrol is both challenging and rewarding,” said Ashlea Foglio, a beach medic on the beach patrol. “It’s important to embody responsibility, maturity, professionalism, and have the ability to relate to a diverse population. “One of the most difficult aspects of being on the beach patrol is the need to be on constant alert and be ready for anything and everything. Lifeguards have the responsibility of maintaining the safety of hundreds - or thousands - of people each day; it’s a daunting task. At any given moment a lifeguard can have a rip current take a group of bathers out to sea, have a beach patron go into cardiac arrest, or have a frantic parent lose sight of their child. Each of these situations – which can sometimes happen at the same time - requires critical thinking and effective communication skills. All of the lifeguards do an amazing job of accomplishing this each and every summer.” I couldn’t have said it any better. Best of luck with your try out.

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OCBP Test Tips

By Senior Lifeguard Paul McCracken THE SWIM Swim, swim, swim. The open-ocean swim can be tough; a quarter-mile out to a flag and back. Get in the pool and work up to 20 laps or more. The competition will include high school and collegiate swimmers so the more water time, the better. During your pool workouts, pull your body high in the water and looking forward every 3 or 4 strokes. You need to do this in the ocean to see over swells to keep an eye on the competition in front and the flag you’re swimming to. Going off course can tire out the strongest swimmer and have a negative impact on finish time. On swim day, orient yourself with the buildings behind the finish line, that’s what you want to swim toward on the return. If there’s surf, use it to your advantage, pulling hard like you were paddling into it while bodysurfing and let the sea move your body. Use the waves as you get closer to shore. The savvy ocean swimmer looks behind to gauge the wave frequency and often body surfs past a still-swimming competitor. Key components to a competitive swim are: conditioning, a straight course, and ocean familiarity. Get down to 1st street and size up the area before the test. THE SURF DASH This event is substantially shorter than the ocean swim. Here, sprint speed is important to get in and out of the surf. Practice running into the surf raising your feet as high as you can until it’s safe to dolphin dive forward, usually in water that’s about thigh deep (you don’t want to dive too shallow and hit your head). As you enter the water feel for the ground with your arms forward, when your hands touch, push up and out of the water while simultaneously planting and pushing with your feet. This launches your body through the surf like a porpoise or dolphin. Keep looking out to your flag as you break the surface and dive forward again. Do this until you’re through the shore break then begin swimming. Once again, pull your body up out of the water, looking forward for your flag. As with the long swim, a straight course is paramount to your success. Don’t swim to the wrong flag! THE ROW Get to the beach as often as possible to get time in the boat. Beaches open Memorial Day; that gives you two weeks to familiarize yourself with the equipment and technique. Guards will take you out during their work out time when conditions permit. Contact HQ at 1st Street for location and times of training. Guards will instruct on how to row the boat. Once again, you need a straight course on race day. Get into the habit of looking over your shoulder at a landmark while practicing. Straight and steady to the flag is key. THE RUN Run – on the beach, boards, track. Once again, conditioning is key. You’ll have to complete a ½ mile run on a track and it is timed. THE INTERVIEW Think about why you want to be a guard, and what your expectations are. Have someone think of some possible questions that may come your way and practice answering while sitting and facing the person. Relax, be honest, and know that the physical part of the selection process is behind you. TOUGH TIMES ON THE BEACH: ADVICE FOR THE ROOKIES Show up to work ready to go; uniform, whistle, CPR mask, extra clothes, suntan lotion and a can-do attitude. Be ready to be at the beck and call of the senior guards on the beach and look forward to hustling all day long. Don’t second guess commands or question directives. Listen for orders and maintain a sense of urgency throughout the day. Ask plenty of questions, but don’t be a pest.

Ocean City

N EIGHT-foot-tall dog stands at the corner of Tennessee and Bay. He’s reddish-brown, made of steel, and from the looks of his stomach, obviously well-fed. His name is BonapART and people love him. This makes Leslie Skibo smile. Skibo is the founder and president of Ocean City’s Community Art Projects (CAP), a non-profit citywide beautification program that strives to enrich people’s daily lives with what she describes as “little surprises around every corner.” Since October 2004, CAP has decorated the city with nearly a dozen public artworks, including a glass mosaic inside the city’s high school entrance; several street paintings and wall murals; and the beloved BonapART, one of three CAP sculptures by New Hampshire artist Dale Rogers. CAP changes neighborhood eyesores like traffic boxes, dirt mounds, and parking lots into works of community pride, and the program is just getting started. “In the beginning there was a little opposition because no one knew who we were,” says Skibo. “Here are a group of people coming to you and saying, ‘hi – we’re going to put something on the side of your building and we hope you don’t mind.’” In the intervening years, CAP has earned a reputation for its artwork. “Now people are coming to us.” Skibo initially had the idea for CAP while

in all CAPs

a local organization rethinks Ocean City one public artwork at a time by laura kiniry photos eric weeks president of Ocean City’s Business and Neighborhood Development – an organization managing the city’s special improvement districts – when the empty side of a downtown storage unit caught her attention. “It’s the first thing you see when you come in over the 9th Street Bridge,” Skibo says. Not the sort of image you want welcoming visitors to your beach community, so Skibo pulled together some local artists and business acquaintances and said, let’s make some art. “We raised the money, put out a call to artists, and nine months later we did it. We were all shocked.” The mural, which highlighted regional architecture and wildlife (and is the only CAP project no longer in existence), soon led to another project. “They city came to us and said, ‘well, you’ve sort of embarrassed us because it looks so beautiful but the [area] in front looks awful,’” says Skibo, so she and her associates worked with them to design a park incorporating many of the mural’s scenic elements. “After that, it just sort of snowballed.” These days CAP is a regular contributor to the local landscape, acting as a sort of liaison between civic leaders and the community. Its board of directors is an entirely volunteer group of partand full-time profes-

sionals who meet monthly to brainstorm ideas, develop existing projects, and plan events. Members include a police captain, gallery director, and the executive director for Main Street Ocean City. Coming from such diverse backgrounds, it’s little wonder CAP projects integrate so smoothly with other citywide improvement efforts. One example is the organization’s unofficial partnership with the local bicycle program. Hoping to help raise awareness, CAP has installed a 22-foot cyclist sculpture by Somers Point artist Jose Chora at 9th and Haven—the start of Ocean City’s bike path—and added three street paintings at intersections en route. It’s also planning a

bicycle parade in late May to celebrate its newest public work: a cycling mural alongside the wall of Peter Lumber Company at 15th and Haven, created by Ocean City High School graduate Stephen Stuart Gibson. Gibson also designed and painted the CAP surf mural on the side of the Boardwalk’s Moorlyn Theatre. In fact, CAP projects have proven an artistic outlet for many local youth and high school students—some who assist with street paintings, others who conceive of and create entire works. “All the muralists we’ve used turned out to be Ocean City High School grads,” says Skibo, “but we didn’t plan that.” CAP board members actually put out a call for submissions, removing the artists’ names before reviewing each entry and choosing a design. Of course, it only makes sense that Ocean City’s sense of place resonates so strongly with its youth. It’s this type of community connection that inspires beautification projects worldwide. In England, an organization called DIY Streets encourages residents to redesign part of their neighborhoods to care for individual needs. Cities like Paris, Los Angeles, and New York offer their metro stations for public art displays. And since 1984, Philadelphia has been the canvas for more than 2,800 public murals, a program that first brought CAP board member Kira Campo to the OC organization: “I had a remarkable experience getting to know Philadel-

phia’s Mural Arts Program and as a result witnessed first-hand the transformative nature of public art.” Campo says what’s great about an organization like CAP is how it brings the community together, “in ways that are wholly positive, collaborative, and truly make a difference.” CAP’s projects have become so popular that city business owners and residents regularly approach board members with possible locations for public art. However, before agreeing to a space CAP has a few things to consider: a location’s size and age (after CAP’s first mural was destroyed by water damage, they’ll no longer paint directly onto a structure unless it’s a new surface); as well as the number of windows in a building—too many might break up an image. Also, visibility is crucial to a successful project: “We have to be very careful about where we put things because we’re doing this with donations,” Skibo says. “We wouldn’t be able to do the things we do without backing from individuals and the city, and obviously everyone would like [to contribute] to something that will be seen.” CAP solicits funds through letters and by word-of-mouth, as well as hosts an adult-only Halloween fundraiser at the Flanders Hotel each year. As long as donations continue, CAP will keep doing its part to beautify Ocean City. The organization has a number of projects lined up for 2010, including painting several downtown traffic boxes and relocating its Sports, Illustrated mural—a 24-foot piece highlighting community athletics performed in front of OC landmarks—that originally adorned the side of the city’s Island Gym. Painted by nationally recognized local artist Aaron “Bogy” Bogushefsky, the mural remained up for approximately

a year before the gym was sold. This time, says Skibo, CAP thought ahead. “[The mural] began as seven smaller paintings that we had blown up and photographically transferred to a product. We then had that put on the building. [When it came time to move the artwork] I just unbolted the piece, stored it, and searched for its new home.” Look for the painting along the side of its latest residence, Shoemaker Lumber at West and 12th this summer. Also new this year are brochures detailing the location of each CAP public art project – perfect, Skibo points out, for an afternoon bicycling tour—and plans for a possible labyrinth at the Bayside Center along Bay Avenue.

For Skibo, CAP is a great opportunity to give back to the community she loves. “Ocean City has always been my home no matter where I lived in the country,” she says. “Everyone seems very happy with what we’ve done.” Skibo pauses, then adds laughingly. “Either that or nobody’s telling me.” For more information, visit www.communityartprojects.com

Local Ocean

Favorite Memories of Ocean City, NJ

FACEBOOK fans share their best memories of being down the shore

etting all dolled up to go to the boardwalk with my friends, perfect hair, perfect makeup, perfect clothes... and no shoes, lol. - Becky Phillips Maegerle

e used to have family reunions in Ocean City, we would rent a house for all of us to stay in. We played on the beach from the moment we woke up til our parents called us in. Then it was time for the boardwalk, pizza and the amusement park! - Amber Higgs

ll my memories! I love Ocean City. Went every summer as a child. Now I can do the same for my child, I’m happiest when I am there! - Kelly Mohler

o many great memories. But I would have to say taking my son to Ocean City, NJ for the first time when he was almost 5 (a few years ago) and watching him run on the beach and enjoy the ocean. There had been a storm earlier in the week and hundreds of starfish were washed up on the beach. Some were still alive and my son took them back to the water to “save” them. - Lisa Mikula

ne of my best memories is from college and visiting my best friend at the shore and laughing until it hurt. Now I visit as an adult with kids and its fun to watch all the kids play together & giggle. I love the beach! - Dottie Capple Send us your favorite memory of OC to be printed in an upcoming issue! ocnjmagazine@comcast.net. Send photos too!

Ocean City

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s ’ l e D

The Original Oceanside Eater y Since 1965

“The Staff at Del’s is trained in the art of making sure the enTire family is happy!” Kids Menu

Famous Philly Steaks

High Chairs

Black Angus Burgers

Booster Seats ATM Onsite Daily Specials Takeout

www.delsgrillocnj.com 934 Boardwalk, Ocean City 609-399-3931

Jumbo Lump Crabcakes Mandarin Chicken Salad NE Lobster Cake French Fried Brazilian Lobster Tail Stuffed Softshell Crab Steamed Shrimp Coconut Shrimp Key Lime Coleslaw Jamaican Jerk Chicken

Events

The Hungryman - Ocean City’s newest relay Bill Godfrey dishes on the event to kick off Restaurant Week in OC

AVE you ever wanted to gobble down a delicious donut then run a half mile before eating a slice of pizza and then running another half-mile? You have? Great! Because we’ve got just the event for you… Presenting The Ocean City magazine Hungryman Relay; the kickoff event for Ocean City Restaurant Week. The first annual Hungryman Relay is June 20 (yes, that’s Fathers Day) from noon to 2pm along Asbury from 5th Street to 9th Street. Asbury Avenue will actually be closed to traffic along that stretch for those two hours. You need me to start from the beginning? Over the long cold winter months, when we were thinking of starting this new magazine, we thought organizing and sponsoring a cool little event would help us with some much needed publicity. We thought a competitive eating contest might be a good idea, but wanted something with just a little more pizzazz. Enter the Hungryman Relay, consisting of running, eating and raising money for a local charity. Ta-dah! A star was born. All that was left was working out the details. We approached the Ocean City Restaurant Association and asked if we could work together in our quest for a silly event in Ocean City – one that would provide a kick off for Restaurant Week. And now three months later we have... The Hungryman Relay - a running and eating event; teams of four members will participate. Your team can consist of whomever you want – men, women, children, grandparents – anybody who can safely run from 5th Street to 9th Street and back. Now here’s the catch; each member starts at 5th Street and must finish a donut before being allowed to begin the run to 9th Street. Now once a runner reaches 9th Street, that runner must eat a slice of pizza before being allowed to make the return run back to 5th Street. At that point you must tag your teammate (We’re actually thinking of making the runners wear big chef hats and then handing them to the next runner in lieu of a baton). Once your teammate has been properly tagged, he/ she repeats the donut, run, pizza, run sequence until all four runners have completed the course. Now you know that sounds like fun. The Hungryman benefits the Community FoodBank

of New Jersey Southern Branch and the Ocean City Food Cupboard; two very worthy organizations that do great work in the local community. We also have some great help from Ocean City’s Downtown Shopping District. Have you shopped Asbury Avenue lately? It’s beautiful with over 100 great shops, boutique, and restaurants. If you love Ocean City, shop Ocean City. The Ocean City Tourism Development Commission gave us some much needed support and the City of Ocean City has been very gracious in their assistance. I’m telling you – this is going to be a great event! Bring dad, granddad, your kids, your friends – whomever. There will be two categories for competitors. One being competitive (for instance, is everyone in your group under age 50? You’re probably competitive), the other being family (granddad and young kids on your team? You’re probably a family competitor). This event is fun for the entire family. And while there will be prizes for the winners of the race, there will also be prizes for best dressed, best themed, youngest finisher and more. The whole event is designed to bring attention to Ocean City Restaurant Week. Ocean City has some great restaurants, and if you didn’t know that, well, now’s the time to expand your horizons. Sure we’ve got some of the best Boardwalk food in the country; pizza, fries, ice cream, popcorn and more. But Ocean City has undergone what I call a restaurant renaissance over the past few years, and there are several restaurants in town with sophisticated menus to satisfy the discerning palette. There are superior breakfast places, awesome stops for lunch and dinner, seafood of the freshest variety, steaks, snacks and everything in between. Take a look around, chances are you’ll find a restaurant that is just what you’re looking for in a great eatery. During Restaurant Week, participating members are offering a two-for one special that should not be missed. Whether it’s breakfast, lunch, dinner or a snack, you can get two items for the price of one during this special week at member restaurants. There’s probably a need for some sort of disclaimer here, but let’s not sweat the small stuff. Head to www.eatinocnj.com for more info. Grab dad, run the Hungryman and go dine at one of Ocean City’s fabulous restaurants. Man, I love this town.

Ocean City

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I. AM. HUNGRYMAN.

are you?

a family-friendly event Sunday, June 20 - NOON Bring DAD out for the firSt ANNuAl Hungryman relay! 6th & Asbury Avenue Sponsored by

Ocean City magazine

Call (609) 675-0867 or go to www.ocnjmagazine.com

Giving a whole new meaning to the phrase, “Eat and Run.” Benefitting the Community FoodBank of NJ & the Ocean City Food Cupboard

Kicking Off Restaurant Week in Ocean City, NJ

June 20-27

www.eatinocnj.com

Enjoy two-for-one deals at all participating restaurants all week long

Arts in OC

Culturally Speaking Pam Mood finds Ocean City is one beach town rich with culture along with sun, sand and surf

CEAN City is a shore town known for its beautiful sandy beaches, a boardwalk jam-packed with tantalizing shops and delicious smells, its wholesome family-friendly atmosphere and its cultured art scene. Cultured art scene? Say what? While it may come as a surprise to most beach goers, America’s Greatest Family Resort is home to more than just sun and surf. Here’s the scoop on how to get your culture on in the OC. The Ocean City Arts Center at 1735 Simpson Avenue offers a variety of classes and workshops year round for both children and adults. Classes range from pottery to drawing to dancing lessons. Individuals in need of an outlet for their creative genius can often find what they’re looking for within the center’s walls. For more information about upcoming classes, visit www.oceancityartscenter.org. For those who don’t want to create their own art, instead would prefer to buy another’s, the resort has several art galleries Downtown, with paintings by local artists. The annual Boardwalk Art Show is happening this year from August 6 to 8. The famous boards are lined with white tents and tons of amazing art. The Ocean City Music Pier, on the boardwalk between 8th and 9th streets,

hosts live classical music from the Ocean City Pops. The Pops features talented musicians who’ve played with the finest orchestras in the world. The Music Pier is also home to the Stockton Concert Series, featuring a different band or singer every Monday evening during July and August. Anyone looking for a complete theater experience in Ocean City won’t be disappointed. The Ocean City Theatre Company brings Broadway to the beach. Relatively new to the OC arts scene, the theatre company produces three musicals a year, as well as an annual children’s production. The Ocean City Repertory Theater gives new meaning to the phrase “live theater.” This theater company has performed Valentine’s Day readings at the Plymouth Inn on Atlantic Avenue and is gearing up for its 6th Annual Bloomsday readings of James Joyce’s novel Ulysses. The readings take place throughout the day at several venues around town.

“Many of the regular, core orchestra members and guest artists also feel the same way I do about coming back each season,” says Scheible. “The enthusiasm and warmth from audience members is very palpable.” The Pops creates its rich musical sounds with very little practice time, only rehearsing for two and half hours before each performance. Most of the performers are seasoned veterans who’ve already played the selected pieces. If not, they learn the music very quickly. The 2010 season encompasses a variety of performances ranging from a tribute to Cole Porter to Broadway singer Ashley Brown to providing the accompaniment for the Ocean City Theatre Company musicals. While he doesn’t have a favorite concert, Scheible said he is looking forward to performing the complete Mozart Requiem on July 11. The evening includes the full Pops orchestra, four vocal soloists and the Brandywine choir.

OCEAN CITY POPS Live music is a big part of the boardwalk experience, with the Ocean City Pops Orchestra providing the backbone of Ocean City’s classical music scene. Since 1987, the Pops has flourished under the leadership of Artistic Director and Conductor William Scheible, who first started his career with the Pops as a trumpet player in 1976. Both he and his wife Sally, who plays violin with the orchestra, feel as though their fellow orchestra members are all part of a big extended happy family.

Ocean City

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Arts in OC “This work was written while Mozart was near death at a young age and completed by one of his students. It’s a very beautiful, expressive moving piece,” says Scheible. Another highlight of the 2010 season is Cirque de la Symphony on August 24. Acrobats, jugglers and dancers with Cirque du Soleil will perform their fascinating feats of strength, balance and flexibility set to the classical music background of the Pops. Scheible is responsible for producing and creating the productions, selecting his concert themes based on audience feedback as well as what other Pops organizations are presenting to their respective communities. Returning guest artists are often part of the schedule, since 98 percent of past performers return to Ocean City. Pops season tickets are available until the end of May. For more information or to purchase tickets for any of the performances, call (609) 5259300 or visit www.oceancitypops. org.

goers can enjoy an evening of mellow folk music and leave with a feeling better than warm sunshine on their shoulders. Staying true to Ocean City’s reputation as “America’s Greatest Family Resort,” all concerts offer quality entertainment at a price the entire family can afford. When selecting the bands, factors such as the variety of the acts, availability of the performers and popularity of the bands are all taken into consideration.

“The summer concert series is different from our regular season, which usually features jazz, classical music and dance. During the summer, our goal is for people to go to the boardwalk and have fun. We hope they will get to know the Stockton Performing Arts Center better through the shows featured on the Boardwalk,” says DiPietro. The concert series concludes on August 23 with The Ultimate Bee Gees Tribute Band: Stayin’ Alive. The show sold out the Music Pier two summers ago, and since then fans have clamored for more. The group embraces the whole ‘70’s disco vibe – complete with mirrored disco ball – playing popular Bee Gees hits such as “Night Fever” and “You Should Be Dancing.” All shows start at 8 p.m. every Monday in July and August at the Music Pier. Tickets are $25 each and are available at www.ocnj.us or by calling (609) 525-9300.

OCEAN CITY THEATRE COMPANY STOCKTON CONCERT SERIES You don’t have to leave the Monday is no longer the most island to experience musical Top: John Alvarez performs during OCRT’s Bloomsday. dreaded day of the week, thanks to theater. The Ocean City Theatre Opposite page top and bottom: OCTC performances. the Stockton Concert Series. Since Company (OCTC) provides the the Stockton Performing Arts Cencommunity with professional ter and the City of Ocean City teamed up theatrical productions and several educaThe 2010 Stockton four years ago, audiences have enjoyed a tional programs for children. Concert Series variety of live concerts ranging from pop The 2010 season includes the OCTC’s and country to oldies and more. renditions of “Oklahoma!” “You’re a July 5: Country Roads: Music of John Denver and Dan Fogelberg “The Music Pier is a great place to have Good Man, Charlie Brown” and “AnyJuly 12: The Little River Band these concerts,” says Suzé DiPietro, marthing Goes.” Vistors and locals in town in keting director for the Stockton PerformDecember can also enjoy “A Christmas July 19: Jay and the Americans ing Arts Center. “Before the show, people Wonderland.” July 26: The Association can enjoy pizza, fries or ice cream on the The company generally kicks off its seaAugust 2: “Ricky Nelson Remembered” boardwalk. It’s a great time right next to son in July with a classic musical. The secAugust 9: Winger the ocean.” ond show in August is family-oriented, and August 16: B.J. Thomas The 2010 season kicks off on Monday, the third show in autumn is often just as August 23: The Ultimate Bee Gees July 5 with Country Roads: The Music of Tribute Band: Stayin’ Alive. p Continued on page 40 John Denver and Dan Fogelberg. Concert

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Ocean City

Arts in OC p From page 39

much of a surprise to the theatre company as it is to the audience. Since the Ocean City Pops Orchestra provides the musical accompaniment for every production, OCTC tries to feature shows that complement the Pops’ musical style. “It’s quite an undertaking,” says Michael Hartman, artistic director. “In some ways people don’t realize how much work goes into each show. We only have a two week rehearsal process, but during those two weeks, we rehearse 10 hours a day.” In conjunction with the city, the theatre company has a two-week long theater camp for students in third through eighth grade. They also offer a vocal camp for developing music and voice skills and a dance camp where students can hone their dancing skills. “Unfortunately, so many art programs are being cut in the public school system

right now. Our programs aren’t designed to replace art education, rather fill in the areas that are missing,” says Hartman. The OCTC’s Junior Company is a summer-long experience. Students in grades six through 12 work alongside professional staff and learn about the different careers in theater besides acting, such as set design or choreography. Since space is limited, auditions are required. Instead of a traditional musical, this year the Junior Company is doing a Broadway revue, encompassing aspects from several different Broadway shows and exposing participants to a broader variety of musical theater. OCTC is a non-profit and accepts donations as well as in-kind contributions, such as fabric, clothing and paint. All donations are tax-deductible. Tickets are available at www.ocnj.us/ boxoffice or by calling (609) 525-9300. For more information about upcoming shows or educational programs, visit www. oceancitytheatrecompany.com.

Ocean City Repertory Theater

For Tickets, call 609-231-3263 Bloomsday, June 16

Theater for Young Audiences July 1 to august 26th sleeping Beauty

noon to midnight Noon: High Tea, Scarborough Inn 1:30pm: Fine Arts League 3pm: City Hall 4:30pm: Godfrey

6pm: Sun Rose Words & Music 7:30pm to 12am: Dinner at Stainton Square

Every Thursday at 1pm in conjunction with Market Days along Asbury Avenue. July 6 to august 31 Jack and the Beanstalk Every Tuesday at 1pm.

PO Box 653, OC•609-231-3263•www.ocrep.org

OCEAN CITY REPERTORY THEATER The Ocean City Repertory Theater (OCRT) brings theater to life through its candlelight readings and live productions. Earlier this year, the non-profit organization performed “Romance Through the Ages” on Valentine’s Day weekend at the Plymouth Inn. While audience members enjoyed a tea at the Inn, actors

Ocean City

performed romantic readings and love songs ranging from Shakespeare to The Beatles “All You Need Is Love.” On June 16, the OCRT presents Bloomsday VI. The event begins at noon and runs until midnight. Throughout the day, actors move to six different venues in the downtown area and perform dramatic readings of James Joyce’s novel Ulysses. Audience members have the option of viewing individual segments or following the actors on their journey over the course of the entire day. Food is provided at each venue, so viewers can eat, drink and be merry. “We had a huge following of people last year who stayed for the entire event,” says Julie Gunn, a volunteer with OCRT. “Some of our past audience members are even taking part in the performance this year.” OCRT is an active participant in Market Days on Asbury Avenue, held every Thursday during July and August. This summer, OCRT will perform the children’s productions “Sleeping Beauty” and “Jack and the Beanstalk.” “If people express an interest in being in one of our shows, our artistic director Flossi Micciolo will find a way for them to participate. She works with the children and their talents and helps them express their emotions in ways unique to their own personalities,” says Gunn. While OCRT produces children’s shows and provides educational programs for children, they are also doing an adult production of Neil Simon’s “Jake’s Women” in August. This comedy which debuted on Broadway in 1992 is about a successful novelist who’s not so successful with love. For more information about the Ocean City Repertory Theater or for sponsorship opportunities visit www.ocrep.org or call (609) 231-3263.

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Local Ocean

Easter in the Downtown Saturday, April 3

Vicki, John, J.D and Ava Moyer with Kris, Mike, Brian and Madison, Michael, Allison and Megan Gozdan and Mike Branca

The girls - Brianna, Nicole, Mandi, Crista, Kayleigh, Nicole, Shelby, Emily and Marissa

Melissa Hofmann, Deirdre Flint and Sheryle Shupel with Dagger the dog, looking mighty spiffy.

Angelo, Mia, Ashley, and Kayla Foca with Colleen Wallingford

Nicholas and Alexa Shallcross with the bunny himself

Richard, Joanne and Kylene Miller with Claudia Weller and Eric, Regina and Ella Schloesser

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Ocean City

The Shopping Guide p From page 19

SWEETS AND TREATS SHRIVER’S SALT WATER TAFFY An Ocean City icon. Salt water taffy, fudge, candy. 9th and Boardwalk, 399-0100. SHRIVER’S GELATO Only gelato store on the boards. 9th and Boardwalk, 3990100. JOHNSON’S POPCORN An Ocean City classic. A great gift too. 1368 Boardwalk, (800) 842-2676. FRALINGER’S SALT WATER TAFFY Fresh ingredients made to strict quality standards. 1100 Boardwalk, 399-2202. AIR TOYS/PIRATE SWAG AIR CIRCUS Kites, flags, air toys, more. 1114 Boardwalk, 399-9343. PIRATES ARRRGH US! Everything for the buccaneer in you. 1116 Boardwalk, 399-9343.

SURF SHOP/SUNGLASSES BY THE SEA SURF SHOP Sun, Sand, Surf lessons. 850 Boardwalk, 398-0159. SUNGLASS MENAGERIE Cool shades, cute staff. Name brands, sunglasses for every budget. 1124 Boardwalk, 3918000. VARIETY STORE PESSANO’S VARIETY STORE Everything you need is here. 3rd and Atlantic and 11th and Boardwalk, 3991889. GIFTS

SILVER LINING AND NAME STATION Everyone finds something they like. Bracelets from Name Station. 930 Boardwalk, 398-4918. See ad page 45. WEST AVENUE INTERNATIONAL AZUL COAST International food market. Mexican, Italian, Asian and

more. Coffee, internet. 214 West Avenue, 398-4526. FURNITURE HANDPAINTED FURNITURE AND DESIGN STUDIO Beautiful furniture and superior home items. 628 West Avenue, 398-5661. INTERIORS BY JOANN Drop dead gorgeous home furnishings. 757 Asbury Avenue, 399-4600. ON THE WAY TO OCEAN CITY BIKES TUCKAHOE BIKE SHOP Modern bikes, Old-fashioned service. 2151 Route 50, Tuckahoe, 628-0101.

LITTLE EGG HARBOR SOAP COMPANY Amazing hand-crafted soaps, lotions, hair and skin care. Consistently in Stef’s Must Haves. 232 S. Shore Road, Marmora, 3909500. See ad page 19.

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M T

MEMORIAL DAY

•Barks on the Boards - Noon Music Pier

MOTHER’S DAY

•Storymates at OC Library - ages 4-5, 10:30-11am •Family Craft Hour at OC Library - ages 7-11, 6:30pm •Kids Fun Yoga at OC Aquatic and Fitness Center - ages 4-7, 4:30-5:15pm

•Gillian’s Wonderland Pier rides open Friday night, Saturday and Sunday afternoon in May •Walk in Arts and Crafts always available at Butterfly Boutique •Jilly’s Arcade open all day everyday •Kayak Tours at Bay Cats •Ongoing drawing, pottery, dance and painting classes for children and teens at OC Arts Center •Paint your own pottery anytime at Glazed Over

S W

•Toddler Time at OC Library - ages 2-3, 10-10:30am •Rhythm & Rhymes at OC Library - ages 9mo - 2, 11-11:25am •Snacks and a Movie at OC Library - grades 3-6, 3:30-4:30

kiddiecity

•Toddler Time at OC Library - ages 2-3, 10-10:30am •Unlocking of the Ocean and Business Persons Plunge - Noon. Moorlyn Terrace & Beach

•Toddler Time at OC Library - ages 2-3, 10-10:30am

may

•Martin Z. Mollusk Day - 11am 9th Street Beach

•Story time at Butterfly Boutique - 11am •Saturday Movie at Library Annex - 2pm

•NYC Bus Trip - departs at 8am at 10th & Haven •Story time at Butterfly Boutique - 11am •Saturday Movie at Library Annex - 2pm

•Story time at Butterfly Boutique - 11am •Saturday Movie at Library Annex - 2pm

•Spring Block Party - 9am Downtown •Story time at Butterfly Boutique - 11am •Saturday Movie at Library Annex - 2pm

For information/details on events, visit www.ocnj.us; Please confirm individual activities, as times and dates can change.

Game On

Ocean City Word Search Find the words in the puzzle below

K L W Y F B L G R R I I N O Y

L U H V A F L A G O O N S V T

A S N R A D U A M P B G L W I

W Z A S Q C L B X V D N I D C

D L E N C P A A C V G I J B N

Asbury Avenue Ocean City Beach Pecks Beach Boardwalk Pizza 44

R P T L D R P T I F B R Q S A

A R C E C I E Z I R N P I A E

O X B M I E I E K O O S S O C

B K F F L J W C N C N M H R O

P C K S B E A C H K K D E L X

Ice Cream Sand Lagoons Spring Lake Brothers Sunscreen

Ocean City

N U L E H T I R D A G E W M Q

D S Z H W J Y H V S E V A W K

J B E A C H V W L Q H R Z C Z

S U R Y A V E N U E S H C Y L

Q E V R M A R K S O I F E R D

O D L A K E B R O T H E R S X

N V X D R K V B P I Z Z A B W

Mark Soifer Vacation Memorial Day Waves

ocnjmagazine.com

Game On

Ocean’s 11 Answer all questions to be a true OC Master 1. Ocean City was originally called what? 2. Who were the first year round residents of the island?

8. How many miles of beaches does Ocean City have? 9. What orchestra plays at the Music Pier?

3. What is the name of OC Publicist Mark Soifer’s alter ego?

10. What event in April features loads of Basset Hounds?

4. What is OC’s New Year’s Eve Celebration called?

11. What ship went down off the coast of Ocean City?

5. How much is a game of Skee Ball at Jilly’s Arcade?

6. Chatterbox 5. .10cents

11. The Sindia. 10. DooDah Parade 9. Ocean City Pops

3. TrashBuster

8. Eight

2. Parker Miller and his family 1. Peck’s Beach

7. Johnson’s makes what treat?

4. First Night

6. What is the name of the big pink building on 9th and Central?

7. Caramel Popcorn

Everyone Can Find Something at Silver Lining! Beach items Great Prices Bracelets

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930-932 Boardwalk, OC (609) 398-4918 Largest selection of Disney fun toys! Keepsake personalized name bracelets!

ocnjmagazine.com

Ocean City

Staying Over

OSBORNE’S INN Peggy Ann and Frank Osborne’s OC landmark is “home away from home” WHO ARE THE INNKEEPERS? We are – Peggy Ann and Frank Osborne along with Kelley, Dave and family (two sets of twin girls - age 10 and 7); Kevin and Leslie and family (two boys and one girl); Colleen, Brad and family (two girls and one boy); Frank X. - still “keeping his eyes open for that special ‘one’”; and Megan and Brian (two girls and one boy). I was a schoolteacher in the City of Philadelphia for many years and that gave me the opportunity to spend my summers at the beach. We hire young people to help with the housekeeping and their first job - their second job and their third job is to “be nice to the guests.” Along with that comes a committment to cleanliness. How happy I am to hear from so many of our guests just how very clean our place is - that is a source of great pride to us. WHEN DID THE INN BEGIN? 1974. We had four children at that time, the oldest was four. A fifth child came in 1977. From day

one we were very family oriented. Our children now have children and we have 13 grandchildren, awaiting number 14 in July. Our family is an integral part of the “charm” of our business. Guests are treated like family and that’s what they’ve become over the past 36 years. We’ve come to know their children and grandchildren. Peggy Ann and Frank Osborne One of the joys of our place is in the off season when we host family reunions. It’s the best of all worlds, people can be together, yet retain their own privacy as each party can have his/her own individual room. LOCATION ON THE ISLAND? 15th and Wesley - very close to the beach and Boardwalk. HOW MANY ROOMS? We have five guest rooms. KID FRIENDLY? PET FRIENDLY? Families, singles and couples are welcome. Unfortunately, due to allergies, we do not allow pets. WHY SHOULD I STAY? Great value - “your home away from home” - clean - comfortable - opportunity to stay for the day of check out!

Over 35 Years In Ocean City!

Property and Lifestyle Management property management

bFamily Owned bGreat Rates bBeach Tags b50 Yards from Beach and Boards

Osborne’s Inn 601 E. 15th Street, OC (609) 398-4319; (215) 782-1326 peggyannocnj@msn.com www.osbornesinn.com

rediscover the Ocean City of your childhood

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concierge services

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625 Bay Ave, OC A Fine Division of Clean Sweep Services (609) 398-6446 “A Complete House Cleaning Service.” 5 Locust Lane, CMCH www.clean-sweep-services.net • cleansweepservices@verizon.net (609) 465-3079

Ocean City

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History

Family First Ocean City’s always been fun for the whole family finds author Fred Miller

Above, Original Chamber of Commerce logo. Opposite Page, cover of 1926 vacation guide

TAMPED on the cover of Ocean City Regional Chamber of Commerce’s Visitors Guide 2010 is “America’s Greatest Family Resort.” But it was 90 years ago in 1920 when the then Chamber of Commerce first adopted the four word description of this barrier island that everyone knows and loves today. “COMMERCE CHAMBER SEEKS SLOGAN FOR THIS CITY” was the headline on the March 18, 1920 Ocean City Sentinel. The article began, “The Ocean City Chamber of Commerce desires to have a slogan. Ocean City has had a slogan for some years – Ocean City the Greatest Family Resort in the World – but this is cumbersome. A snappy slogan is wanted—something that says much in little.” A committee was appointed to take action on both a slogan and emblem for the Chamber. The following were on the committee: Mayor Joseph G. Champion, Dr. Allen Corson, Ralph L. Chester and Homer Shoemaker.

Newly Renovated. Expanded Cardio and Weights. Indoor Cycling. Friendly, Supportive Staff.

come see the

Ocean City Aquatic & Fitness Center

www.ocnj.us

(link to City Services for AFC Page)

1735 Simpson Ave., OC 609-398-6900

A challenging workout facility that fits your budget and lifestyle Ocean City

ocnjmagazine.com

History The committee’s historic decision was announced at the April 20, 1920 meeting of the Chamber of Commerce: “‘America’s Greatest Family Resort’ was the best slogan that could be adopted from the fact that Ocean City is a family resort, and it is without a doubt America’s greatest.” The Chamber also adopted an emblem at the meeting. It was described in the April 22, 1920 Ocean City Sentinel: “The design is of circular shape, in the center of which are the words ‘Ocean City, New Jersey.’ Around the circle is the inscription, ‘America’s Greatest Family Resort,’ also six arrows representing six points which make Ocean City stand out from other seashore resorts in the state. These points are: location, safe beach, wide, clean streets, boating and fishing, churches and schools, health and happiness.” With the new slogan on the cover of its 1920 publicity bro-

“Ocean City... Here, life is a glorious adventure.”

-1920 brochure

chure, the Ocean City Chamber of Commerce told folks what they could expect when they vacationed in America’s Greatest Family Resort: “When you come to Ocean City – and sooner or later everyone does – you will gain a new insight into life and living. For here, life is a glorious adventure. Forgot will be the cares of yesteryear – and even those of yesterday. For it is impossible to withstand the joyous, carefree mood that is the truest expression of Ocean City’s ever-growing popularity. Whether you are matching your skill with the strength of a restless, sun-flecked ocean – under a fleece blown sky of blue – or quietly strolling the walk and watching the road the moon has laid across that same old ocean. Whether you are dozing before a bobbing cork – or bounding on the crest of a wave before the breeze making tracings of white on the horizon – You will never escape from that all prevailing mood of blended joy and hospitality that is Ocean City’s – more, you will never want to.” It ’s 2010, and Ocean City is still a family resort, and without a doubt America’s greatest!

ocnjmagazine.com

Ocean City

Ocean City magazine

YOU’re IN OC

The Capple Family takes on the Boardwalk See which shops they hit

Joanna and Marley’s

picks for the best ice cream downtown

Ryan and Dottie get a babysitter...where did they go? Find out inside!

The Capple Family in America’s Greatest Family Resort

Want your family on the “cover”? - email ocnjmagazine@comcast.net

The beach called. It said, “long time no see.” (Don’t let the beach get lonely)

Stay in the surf with

Ocean City magazine

Subscribe for $20 www.ocnjmagazine.com or (609) 675-0867

The region’s most convenient healthcare. AtlantiCare Clinical Laboratory •

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FAMILY MEDICINE CLINICAL LABORATORY

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Physician Group

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201 West Avenue Ocean City

URGENT CARE CENTER

Please call for hours.

Physician Group

609-391-7500 Hope Medical Commons 210 South Shore Road Suite 200 Marmora

AtlantiCare Urgent Care

Hope Medical Commons 210 South Shore Road Suite 201 Marmora Please call for hours.

609-390-7814

Hope Medical Commons 210 South Shore Road Suite 201 Marmora Monday - Friday 5 p.m. - 9 p.m. Saturday and Sunday 9 a.m. - 3 p.m.

609-407-CARE (2273)