September/October 2023 Ocean City Magazine

The Premier Lifestyle Magazine for America’s Greatest Family Resort

“Whenever I look at the ocean, I always want to talk to people, but when I’m talking to people, I always want to look at the ocean.” -

IN THIS ISSUE

Fished My Wish

Local artist Lauren DeMarco created our September/October cover, inspired by the ultimate island inspo… the ocean and its residents. See more of Lauren’s work at @Laurenspired on Instagram. This issue and previous issues are readable at www.ocnjmagazine.com.

Ghost Stories Come to Life

It’s time to put your ghost-busting shoes on... if you dare. Or better yet, leave it to the professionals and just read their stories instead.

Shop Talk

We talk shop (and bank!) with the folks at Shoppes at the Asbury, who have taken another step in supporting the local community.

Be Well

Lauren Deckard explains why surfing can have such a positive impact on your mental health.

Beach Reads

On the hunt for your next beach read? We’ve got you! Check out our latest selection.

Actual size

SPOT THE SURFER

We've hidden a surfer in one of the ads in this issue. Email us with the ad she is surfing on at editor@ocnjmagazine.com. A winner will be chosen on November 1 from correct entries to win a $50 gift card to Cousin's Restaurant

Haruki Murakami

On the Radar

THE LIST

TIDE FORECAST

Embrace Fall

Yes, we all know September is the start of school around here for most of us… but it’s so much more. Embrace this cool month that ushers in fall with our list of to do... and get one last major splash in before summer says see you later.

1. Howl at the Moon

Step off with your dressed up pooch for this fureaking awesome parade by the HSOC on October 21.

2. Vinyl

Surf Mall is like that friend that always manages to be cool, no matter what. Say hey to Chris, and scoop up some boss new vinyl to soundtrack fall. Find them on the 1100 block of the Boardwalk.

3. Home Slice

Super crispy and piping hot pizza right on Asbury? Yes please. Sit outside Chelsea Pizza for max people watching experience. Pictured above.

4. Tube Time

Get one last summer air and hang time while you ride the boat waves and make a serious splash at OCNJ Watersports, 3rd and Bay.

5. Spooked

Explore island shops like Mia’s Christmas Gallery, Spotted Whale, and Stainton’s for spooked out new Halloween décor.

6. Bowled Over

Smashed avo, thick toast, and everything bagel seasoning come together for a healthy breakfast or snack that feels indulgent. Bet.

Good to Know

On Sept 1st, the sun rises at 6:26am and sets at 7:29pm. On Sept 30th, the sun rises at 6:53am and sets at 6:42pm.

Aries

March 21 - April 19

In relationships, the most complicated situations start to clear up and you get the chance to reach an accord with your better half. Professionally, revise some beliefs and habits related to managing money so you can make the most of the opportunities coming your way. During the second half of September, you should try new work methods and/or organize your work schedule. Be patient, persevere, and consult with your close ones, coworkers, or with a specialist. Be mindful not to make decisions for others.

Taurus

April 20 - May 20

Single Taureans become gradually more receptive to the messages from potential partners, so the odds of starting new romantic connections increase. Financially, Taureans are not in for any major issues when it comes to money. You should prioritize taking care of debts and be mindful not to spend on pampering yourself or making risky investments. Be modest in everything you do, steer clear of over-the-top claims, and negotiate patiently both in your personal life and in your professional pursuits.

Gemini

May 21 - June 20

Jupiter’s retrograde motion marks a very good term for analyzing and redefining your expectations in ties to others and to release some older and dysfunctional relational patterns. It’s time to do an honest self-analysis and strive to become aware of the issues and desires that motivate you. It’s not easy, but you have to put in the effort. Make more time for family and loved ones. Deal with your living space and rebuild ties to those you care about.

Cancer

June 21 - July 22

Jupiter begins its retrograde motion on September 4, through Cancer’s 11th house, a sector which opposes your house of love. As a result, it’s a great time for meditating on your emotional and relational future and for revising some beliefs about love, romance, expressing your feelings, and so on. Professionally, seek out ways to optimize your activity so you improve your income. Make enough time for putting things in order in your personal life. It’s the only way to get the peace of mind and motivation you need in order to dedicate yourself to your professional activity.

Leo

July 23 - August 22

This term, you could become obsessively interested in a love story from the past. Maybe things were left unclear, unresolved, or unhealed and prevented you from moving on toward a new phase of your life. Be patient and not look at things only from your point of view. Professionally, life is demanding but the income can be subpar, so it’s time to show restraint and perseverance.

Virgo

August 23 - September 22

Virgoans go through a great time for revising some ideas and beliefs about marriage, commitments and responsibilities in your life as a couple, and even the role of marriage in their life. Someone you were involved with in the past could show back up in your life. Careerwise, it’s time to step up and make your skills, knowledge, and seriousness shine. If you truly want to make progress, take the initiative after September 15. If you’re looking for a job, during the last days of the month you might get a pleasant surprise.

Libra

September 23 - October 22

For many Librans, this is a time of clarifications on an emotional and intimate level. It’s a time when there can be important shifts of direction when it comes to the future of an important relationship. It marks the beginning of a term when some situations become unstuck and you become more determined to change what you don’t like in your marriage or a relationship. Jupiter’s retrograde motion favors resuming discussions on sensitive topics related to life as a couple.

Scorpio

October 23 - November 21

Aspects related to your career become clearer and odds are you become aware of the intentions of some business partners or higher-ups (as the case may be), because Venus – ruler of Scorpio’s 7th house (relationships, partnerships, associations, competition) – resumes its direct motion through your house of career. Seek out what you have in common with others, try to make allies. Where there are no more common goals or values, take a step back. Don’t waste your time and energy on ties that don’t lead to anything positive.

Sagittarius

November 22 - December 21

Expect to see some clarifications of matters related to your life as a couple and gain a much clearer view on what you want for the long term from your relationship or from your marriage, as the case may be. Professionally, you have every chance at making progress, even if sometimes you doubt a particular activity or job. You start to have a clearer vision on what you have to do in order to achieve your goals. Even if you’re very busy with work, don’t neglect your family. It’s time to look back with more wisdom on some sensitive topics because after September 15 you have better chances at resolving them.

Capricorn

December 22 - January 19

For some Capricornians it becomes clear that they need a major change of attitude when it comes to intimacy. In couples troubled by issues, the last part of September could bring a final breakup. For single Capricornians, this term isn’t exactly favorable and there’s a risk of experiencing all sorts of hiccups and complicated situations. Healthwise, steer clear of excesses of any kind. You can enjoy life without endangering your health.

Aquarius

January 20 - February 18

After September 4 is a good time to improve professional ties and collaborations. If you’re willing to negotiate, look for the middle ground, and strive to reach a common vision with others, you have every chance at making progress, (re) gaining allies and partners. Personally, you’re going through a phase of life when you’re pushed and helped to evolve and face your deepest fears and anxieties so you become stronger, more independent, and more optimistic.

Pisces

February 19 - March 20

Personally you go through a great time to get rid of debt and find out whether it’s worth it to get a loan for an investment you’ve been planning for a while. Professionally, you’re in for a good term for revising your ideas and beliefs about your professional life and your success in life, in general. Be careful how you communicate because you’re predisposed toward faux-pas. Pick your words, tone, and gestures carefully. Based on how you express yourself, you can gain an ally or end up with an enemy.

By Eastrolog.com. For entertainment purposes only.

From the Editor

x

My daughter Snow enjoying the awesome fun at Market Days on Asbury Avenue.

Visit

It happens about the second week of August. You drive through town to the Community Center just like you did all summer… but something is different. Are the crowds are a wee bit thinner on the island? The weather a wee bit cooler? Are those leaves on the ground?!

The intensity of summer has simmered down.

It’s easy to get wrapped up in the summer scaries… an affliction I personally came down with every August 1 as a kid (sorry mom and dad!)... when it’s impossible to deny your summer freedom of long days and long nights has an expiration date. But this year, instead of letting the scaries take over, I’m trying to embrace the change of season. And you know what? It isn't that hard… and I can explain why in one word. September.

Letting go of summer is bittersweet… but its the sweet part that we owe to ninth month. It’s cool in the mornings and evenings, hot during the day, the ocean is warm, and the air is crisp and clear.

Ocean City is happening all year round... you know

this. Through late summer and fall, there’s loads of events like the Aerobatic Air Show, Corvette Show, and one of my favorite events, Dog Day and the Howl-OWeen Parade. We welcomed a new fur family member last February – a Bernedoodle named Olive – and she can’t wait to dress up and strut her stuff down the boards.

This month in OC mag, we relish the people, business, landscapes, and events that make Ocean City and its surrounding area so special. Head in the kitchen at Las Olas in Marmora, learn about the posh new Shoppes at the Asbury that took over the Crown Bank building, get spooked by area ghost lore, see what’s happening this year at OC schools and dive into history with Loretta Thompson Harris’ new book about growing up in the Westside. Plus, get shopping with the must haves – this month I went in search of creature comforts around the island and scored big time. From sublime shopping to creative cuisine… and the cool stuff between, we explore it all on these pages. Dive in.

Photo by Stef Godfrey

Bittersweet Symphony

Stef Godfrey

CORN tortillas filled with chicken ropa, topped with lettuce, avocado, creme, queso fresco and radish. A pulled pork burrito prepared with pico de gallo and salsa verde, studded with rice and black beans. Tacos filled with blackened ahi tuna blanketed in spicy adobo dry rub. Cool, creamy guacamole served with perfectly salted corn chips.

Is your mouth watering yet?

If the answer is yes, it might be time to take a drive over the 34th Street Bridge and stop by Las Olas Taqueria, tucked into the

LAS OLAS TAQUERIA

shopping center at 4 West Roosevelt Boulevard in Marmora. Since opening in 2021, the restaurant’s staff has prided itself on serving up authentic Mexican cuisine to locals and tourists alike.

And as Las Olas Taqueria’s popularity continues to grow, they must be doing something right.

“Business has been doing great so far!” owner Joe Pappano said. “We recently just bought a food trailer to expand our services.”

When living in Southern California, Joe worked at a taqueria – an eatery specializing in tacos and other Mexican fare – in Newport

Beach for several years. He knew he wanted to bring those traditional authentic Mexican flavors back to New Jersey.

In partnering with Chef Aedo Rufino, he was able to do just that in opening Las Olas Taqueria. The pair have crafted the restaurant recipes together, ensuring a one-of-a-kind dining experience filled with South Cali Mexican flare. From signature tacos to street tacos, burritos to quesadillas, every item has been carefully considered for the Las Olas menu.

“We make use of the delicious flavors found in SoCal Mexican cuisine,” Joe said.

Popular items include fish and shrimp tacos, which are served with a tequila lime glaze, as well as vegetarian options such as the tofu chorizo tacos. In addition to the wide array of tacos at Las Olas, the restaurant also serves up burritos, quesadillas, rice bowls, salads and soup.

“As for entrees, we have included fajitas in our menu, offering steak, chicken, shrimp and veggies for it,” Joe said.

And for the littlest lovers of Mexican food, Las Olas has a kids’ menu with quesadillas, tacos and chicken tenders sized just for them.

Las Olas Taqueria brings authentic SoCal Mexican flavor to South Jersey

“For appetizers, our customers love and enjoy our fresh inthe-house-made guacamole, pico de gallo and chips, as well as our Mexican street corn and churros,” Joe explained. There are nachos, too, of course, in almost every combination imaginable, including steak, chicken, pulled pork, mahi mahi, birria and lengua (tongue), to name a few.

Arbol sauce and jalapenos spice up the nachos, while crema and a melted cheese blend will cool things down.

Choosing a personal favorite menu item isn’t an easy task, according to Joe.

“That’s hard,” he admitted. “I’d have to say either the pork belly taco or our surf and turf taco, which is a mix of Mexican chorizo, steak and shrimp all in one taco.”

Eating carefully crafted, authentic Mexican cuisine keeps customers coming back to Las Olas Taqueria. The restaurant’s hand-pressed tortillas made fresh daily sets them apart, too, as well as its beachy vibe.

“Our interior decor is inspired by my time living on a beach town on the West Coast. I have surfed for many years and the theme is very beach/surf,” Joe said.

Joe, Aedo and the rest of the Las Olas Taqueria team are grateful for building a loyal customer base, with a number of regulars who return time and again for a taste of SoCal Mexico cuisine. Of course, Joe attributes Las Olas Taqueria’s success to all customers who stop in – new or old. The restaurant offers a VIP program to thank its customers. After signing up, special offers, loyalty rewards and other perks will arrive via email.

When asked about the best part of owning a community business, the answer was simple for Joe.

“Just sharing and seeing people enjoy our authentic flavors that we work best to serve,” he said.

Las Olas Taqueria is located at 4 West Roosevelt Boulevard, Unit #14, in the ShopRite plaza. Call them at (609) 938-2419. Find them online at lasolastaquerianj.com and on Facebook @ lasolastaquerianj.

By Kristen Dowd

Pear Ginger Olive Oil Cake

Bring the subtle taste of the fall season to your dessert table

INGREDIENTS

1-1 1/2 Bosc pears, peeled, cored and chopped

2 inch piece fresh ginger, grated

1 tablespoon butter

1/4 teaspoon cinnamon

1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil

1/2 cup + 1/4 cup granulated sugar

4 large eggs, whites and yolks separated

2 cups almond flour

2 tablespoons cornstarch

1 teaspoon baking powder

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar

Powdered sugar

DIRECTIONS

Preheat oven to 325°F. Coat the bottom and sides of a 9-inch cake pan with cooking spray. Line the bottom of the pan with parchment paper and coat with cooking spray as well.

Heat a large pan over medium heat and add butter. Swirl around till melted. Add the pears, fresh ginger and cinnamon. Cook until pears are slightly softened and spices are fragrant. Remove to a bowl and let cool.

In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, 1/2 cup sugar, and egg yolks to combine. Add the almond flour, cornstarch, baking powder, and salt and stir to combine.

To the bowl of a stand mixer or a large bowl, add the egg whites and cream of tartar and whip/beat on medium-high speed until foamy. While the mixer is running, add the remaining 1/4 cup sugar and continue whipping/ beating until the egg whites are shiny and begin to form stiff peaks.

Using a spatula, fold a third of the egg whites mixture into the batter until just combined. Fold in the remaining

Top row left to right: Saute the pears, fresh ginger, and cinnamon in butter over medium heat. In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, sugar, and egg yolks. Whip/beat the egg whites and cream of tartar until foamy. Bottom row left to right: Using a spatula, fold a third of the egg whites into the batter. Add pears and fold until just combined. Pour the batter into the cake pan. Opposite page: The finished cake dusted with powdered sugar.

egg whites and the pears until just combined. Transfer the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake until the cake is a deep golden color on top and the top springs back when pressed lightly, about 40-45 minutes. Let the cake cool slightly and then loosen the edges with a butter knife or offset spatula. Invert onto a wire rack and remove the parchment paper. Turn right side up and let cool completely. Dust with powdered sugar before serving.

Follow Amy Mahon on Instagram @ sundaygirleats and at www.etsy.com/shop/ beachgirlacrylics.

Photos by Amy Mahon.

Shore Eats The Dining Guide

BREAKFAST I LUNCH I SWEETS

Aneu Kitchen Grab and go gourmet market. Breakfast sandwiches, heat and eat entrees, beach delivery. 5501 West. 609232-7075, www.aneucatering.com.

Asbury Kitchen Extensive and healthy menu. Inside and outside seating, gluten free options. 624 Asbury. 609-399-3639, www.asburykitchen.com.

Augie's Omelette & Waffle House Breakfast and lunch with unique items like the peanut butter and jelly waffle. 9th & Atlantic, 391-0222.

Aunt Betty's Seriously fresh ice cream. 2100 Asbury; 40th & West. 398-4001; 398-4005.

Blitz's Market Breakfast sandwiches, pickle sandwiches, burgers, steak sandwiches, vegetarian and vegan options, smoothies, catering, and more. Open year round. 2100 Asbury, 609-399-6080.

Christine's Italian Pastry Shoppe

Custom cakes, delish pastry, gluten free options. 314 Tilton, 646-5666.

DeFelice Exquisite Cakes Online bakery delivering pies, sheet cakes, cupcakes, cookies, cheesecakes, mousse cakes, strawberry shortcake, birthday cakes, wedding cakes, and more to the South Jersey area. 609-545-8942.

Goji Cold pressed juices, coffee, treats, smoothies, bowls, plant-based eats. 612 Asbury, 814-2816.

Hooked on Breakfast From crepes to choc chip cannoli pancakes, this eatery has a menu to please everyone. Daily specials, outside dining. 916 Asbury, 938-9285.

Johnny B Goode Waffles, ice cream, family entertainment, fresh made fudge and other confections. Outside dining. 14th & Asbury, 525-0646 & 34th & West, next to Hoy’s, 525-0648.

Johnson’s Popcorn One whiff of this corn a cookin, and you'll be hooked. 1368 Boardwalk, (800) 842-2676. Open year round.

Nauti Donuts With flavors like Mermaid’s Delight (strawberry icing, Fruity Pebbles, and marshmallow drizzle)

and the Salty Dog (maple icing, pork roll, and a salted caramel drizzle) you’ll feel like a sailor navigating waves of a dessert ocean. 2133 Asbury, 609-938-2253.

Ocean City Coffee Company Fresh brews, coffee drinks, bites. 9th & Boardwalk, & 1066 Boardwalk, 917 Asbury, 399-5533. Open year round.

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

PIZZA I BURGERS l FRIES l SANDWICHES

Flippers Grille Outside Port-O-Call Hotel. Burgers, etc. 1510 Boardwalk, 399-8812.

Jilly’s Ice cream and fries... best day ever! Ice cream, 1172 Boardwalk. Fries, 1034 Boardwalk.

Kirk’s Pizza Amazing steak sandwiches. Outside tables. 44 Route 9, Marmora. 390-1845.

Manco & Manco Pizza Thin crispy pizza that's a must try. Three locations on the Boards. 7th, 9th, and 12th Streets, and now available at Citizen's Bank Park, Philadelphia. Go Phillies! 399-2548.

Prep's Pizzeria Stromboli, calzones, sandwiches, pizza and a dairy bar with all your favorite ice cream dishes and hot homemade waffles. 10th & Boardwalk, 398-0636.

Sandwich Bar We're a bit obsessed with the chicken cutlet with rabe. We have to go get one right now. Cash only. 3255 Asbury, 741-9888.

GLOBAL CUISINE I SEAFOOD

Adelene Serving breakfast and lunch daily. Burger Bar. Gorgeous beachfront space. 1510 Boardwalk, 800-334-4546.

Cold Spring Brewery NJ's first nonprofit brewery. Free parking, wifi, indoor/ outdoor seating, growlers, crowlers, and cans available. 733 Seashore, Cape May. 609-854-3077.

Cousin’s Varied and sophisticated menu. Outside dining, catering too. 104 Asbury, 399-9462.

Thank you to all the restaurants who support Ocean City Magazine and the Ocean City Guidebook. Please visit them and tell them we sent you!

Crab Trap Seafood, prime rib, steak and pasta dishes. 2 Broadway, Somers Point, 927-7377.

Deauville Inn Recent renovations give the restaurant a modern flair. Fresh seafood, salads, and sandwiches... try the prime rib dip. Full bar, outside dining. 201 Willard, Strathmere, 263-2080.

The Farmstand at 14th A healthier, lighter simpler style with plenty of vegan and vegetarian dishes. Burgers and chicken too! Outside dining. 1368 Boardwalk, 399-3439.

Hula Restaurant and Sauce Company Tasty Hawaiian cuisine. We love the Firecracker Shrimp. Outside dining. 940 Boardwalk, 399-2400.

Mama Mia's Gourmet pizzas, calzones, flatbreads and fine dining entrees. Delivery anywhere on the island. 4 Roosevelt, Marmora, 624-9322.

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

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

Somers Point Brewing Company A local, independent craft brewery, with an indoor tasting room. Their motto is simple – drink local, eat local. 705 W New York Avenue, Somers Point, 788-0767.

Tuckahoe Inn Waterfront dining with live music. 1 Harbor Road & Route 9, Beesley’s Point, 390-3322. Open year round.

Yesterday's Creekside Tavern An iconic year round sports destination. Newly renovated, live music, indoor and outdoor dining, open daily. 316 Roosevelt, Marmora, 609-390-1757.

WITH LINDA ARCEO

Spiked Apple Cider Slushie

Celebrate the changing of the seasons, and help welcome in fall, with this Spiked Apple Cider Slushie. Grab some fresh apple cider from your local farmer’s markets and stands and enjoy this seasonal drink with a frozen, spirited twist. Cheers!

Serves 2

6 cups of ice

4 oz. apple-flavored bourbon whiskey (1/2 cup)

4 oz. fresh apple cider

1 oz. triple sec

1 oz. maple syrup

2 teaspoons ground cinnamon

Fresh apple slice and cinnamon stick to garnish

Fill a large blender with ice, apple-flavored bourbon whiskey, apple cider, triple sec, maple syrup and ground cinnamon. Blend on high until smooth. Serve immediately, garnished with an apple slice and cinnamon stick. Optional: cinnamon rim for even more fall flavor.

Photos by Linda Arceo

vote! inclusi accountability

kindess for

UPPER TOWNSHIP

BY REBECCA

Local Ocean Snapshot

Night in Venice

The Phillie Phanatic at this year’s Night in Venice. The theme was “It’s a Philly Thing.”

Photo by Kerri Janto.

Local Ocean Snapshot

On the Beach

This page, clockwise from top: Emma Kelsch & Sophia Fanelli; Garret, Sawyer & Gabby Eakins; Giuliana & Gabriella Kozie. Opposite page, clockwise from top: Lily, Nora & Logan Smick; Olivia Smith & David Hathaway; Patrick & Jameson Umyn. Photos by Kerri Janto.

Local Ocean Snapshot

On the Beach

Opposite page, clockwise from top: Marcus Dickerson & Helen Cooney; Brian Sherlock, Kim Sherlock, Jake Sherlock & Andrew Trolio; Matthew, Barrett, Maxwell & Rebekah Stimpson.

This page, clockwise from top: Paige Gruber & Emily Thompson; Jack Block, Colin Grimes, Zach Thornton & Will Crean; Pat & Jim Hutchins. Photos by Kerri Janto.

Local Ocean Snapshot

Art of Surfing

This page, clockwise from top: Jackie, Dougie & Dylan Huntsinger; Eric Plyler from Dry Island; Aaron & Sam Bogushefsky. Opposite page, clockwise from top: Mel, Justin & Lisa May Rementer; Curren & Kai Carlisi; Steph Polinski & Laura Birnbohm. Photos by Kerri Janto.

Local Ocean Snapshot

Baby Parade

This page, clockwise from top: Luca Chmielewski, Cheryl Chmielewski & Ken Luciani; Arianna Diantonio, Antonella Diantonio, April Wright, Sarah Avellino & Sarah Smith; William, Jonny & Emma Jamison. Opposite page, clockwise from top: Beckett, Kristen, Kenna & Brooks Adams; Elliot Pierce; Calleigh Ireland, Ginger Virginia, Ruby Doran, Harper Juelg, Sarah Ade, Lacey Maehler, Sophia Daniel, Luciana DeMarco.

Photos by Kerri Janto.

Mayor Champion Opens New Airport

BY FRED MILLER

Headley announced the good news from the federal government: “Approximately 400 men will start work soon building this city a modern airport. It is expected that it will practically eliminate unemployment here for the balance of the winter.”

Headley continued reporting, “The completed project will cost $100,400, which has been granted to Ocean City by the Civic Works Administration. Of this sum, 75 percent is to be spent for labor, the balance for material. Construction will be in direct charge of the city engineer, who will work with the federal engineers.”

The airport, designed by Erwin L. Schwatt, consisted of three runways, each 3,200 feet long and 150 feet wide with an additional 100 feet of width of fill at each side.

Ground breaking ceremonies took place on January 15, 1934, but because of administrative delays, bad weather, and equipment breakdowns, the official opening did not take place until July 4, 1935. Mayor Champion called it “a red-letter day for Ocean City. It was also a special day for the 70-year-old leader as he was taken aloft by Col. J. Carroll Cone. They flew over Ocean City and Atlantic City and returned safely to Clarke Field. “It was wobbly, but I liked it fine,” he remarked.

The public could take the same ride for $4 or for $1.50 fly over just Ocean City.

The opening day ceremony ended with the American Legion Band playing patriotic tunes.

Celebrate the 88th anniversary of the airport at the annual Air Festival on Saturday, September 16 at 26th Street and Bay Avenue from 10am to 3pm. The next day the Boardwalk Aerobatic Airshow will fill the air over the beach and Boardwalk between 6th Street and 14th Street beginning at 1pm.

MEET THE MAKER ///

MINCH & SONS CUSTOM SIGNS

Allen Minch

By Anthony J. Mazziotti III.

Photos courtesy of Allen Minch.

Far Left: Jack Minch works on a license plate sign (with careful supervision) for his family business. Jack – along with dad, Allen, and brothers, Cooper and Henry – make upcycled license plate art.

Left: Allen Minch made his first license plate sign as a gift for his wife in December 2019. Now he runs a successful business, Minch and Sons.

Above: Brothers Jack, Cooper and Henry Minch smile with a sign advertising their family business. The trio are learning the art of creating license plate signs from their dad.

Proud dad Allen (in back) poses with his sons, from left, Cooper, Jack and Henry.

The solution was a 6-by-12 inch piece of metal stamped with letters and numbers, unique to the state in which the car owner resided.

In other words, the license plate was born.

Fast forward just north of a century, and it turns out vehicle identification isn’t the only thing license plates are good for. Just ask Somers Point artist Allen Minch.

In December 2019, Allen dismantled license plates from New Jersey and Pennsylvania to create a piece of artwork as a Christmas gift for his wife Katherine. In an homage to where he was raised, Allen cut out individual letters from assorted Pennsylvania license plates to spell out his last name. He then used New Jersey license plates to cut out individual numbers to symbolize the couple’s wedding anniversary. From there he affixed the letters and numbers to a piece of wood, and his first piece of license plate art was born.

Allen’s inaugural work of art was a hit, and soon he found himself making more signs for extended family members. Someone on Facebook commented on one of Allen’s posts and suggested he should make a business out of his creations. About two years ago he opened up his Etsy shop called “Minch and Sons,” and although making and creating license plate art isn’t quite Allen’s full-time job yet, that's something he's set his sights on.

A COLLECTION FOR CREATING

For Allen, collecting license plates has been a passion of his since he was eight years old.

“I’ve loved license plates since I was a kid. I used to hang them off the back of my bike,” he said with a chuckle.

Nowadays his love for license plates has spread to his three sons: Jack, Cooper and Henry. The four Minches are members of the Automobile License Plate Collectors Association, the largest license plate collector organization in the world. Between Allen and his trio of boys, their personal license plate collection has representatives from all 50 states a few times over, as well as plates from the Northwest Territory, Russia, the United Kingdom, Aruba and St. Martin, to name a few.

“When people go on vacations they think of us and bring us back license plates, which is pretty cool,” Allen added.

ONE-OF-A-KIND, HANDMADE STYLE

After making a few signs for friends and family, Allen started to make signs to symbolize vehicles, such as “V-Dub” for Volkswagens or “Harley Davidson” for, well, Harley Davidsons. He also has signs in his Etsy shop that read “Send it,” “Live to Ride,” “Audi,” “Ford,”

“Mopar” and “Chevy.” There are also signs that read “Beach House” and “Surfs Up.” He makes custom keychains, too.

Once an idea pops into his head, Allen makes his way to the workshop where he will cut out each letter individually from a license plate and measure them to make sure they are similar in size – although they don’t need to be the same length. From there he cuts the piece of wood he plans to attach the letters and numbers to, sands it down, stains it and then clear coats it. Then it’s off to the sink to wash the letters and numbers to make sure they’re clear of all rust, dirt, tar and bugs. (It is a license plate, after all.)

“What sets us apart from other sign makers, we attach the letters using nails instead of screws, it gives it more of a homemade aesthetic,” Allen said. “I use a drill press to drill a 1/16-inch hole for the nails to go through. It’s more work but it gives a better look.”

At this point, Allen attaches stainless steel wire and other hardware to the back of the sign to make it easy for hanging.

“Sure you could use command strips, but I like to include something to hang it up with,” he said.

And no two signs are the same, either. Allen will use letters from different state license plates – in both style and location – to create the piece of art. He says the punched out letters on the embossed plates work better than the newer flat plates.

A PERFECT PATH

Allen works in the automotive industry by day, which makes his personal life and professional life come full circle.

“If you told me five years ago I would cut up license plates, I would look at you like you have three heads,” he said jokingly.

Making custom license plate art with his kids is a dream come true for Allen, too. He taught his three boys the importance of eye and hand protection and instilled a knowledge of the tools necessary to complete the project. Right now, his oldest son, Jack, is the only one capable of using tools with his supervision.

The sky’s the limit for Minch and Sons. Their signs can be found hanging in homes and businesses throughout the area – and even beyond, such as a “Super Bowl 52 Champs’’ sign Allen made that is featured in a Delaware County house that won an award for “Best Eagles Man Cave.”

“To take something I love and be creative with them, spell things out, come up with ideas,” Allen said. “It’s fun.”

A little more than 100 years ago, as countries around the globe turned to automobile transportation, governments needed to find a way to identify vehicle owners.

9. Fur Real Because it's true.

8. Sooth it over Magic is a quiet baby.

7. The Blues Drip for the pre-k crew.

6. Flock of Seagulls I also believe in the power of a book. Get this one by OC local, Olivia Margulis.

10. Wrappers Delight My dog has one with my face on it.

Bowfish Kids, 956 Asbury Animal House, 705 Asbury

4. Ruff Night Mental note these for the Earlier than the Bird event in November.

3. Down Dog Dogs make everything better. Except all the things they chew. Not those.

2. Eight is Enough Blankets are to autumn like ______ are to summer. Mad Lib that.

1. Dish Your Wish Got a beach house or wish you did? Get these dishes and feel closer to the sea.

5. Creature Comfort I do believe in dragons, I do believe in dragons, I do believe in dragons.

Spotted Whale, 944 Asbury Hoy's, 732 Asbury

SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER MUST HAVES

3. Animal Attraction Each bracelet tracks a specific animal... 'bout time we put jewelry to work.

1. Wild Style For the truly fabulous only.

4. Eye of the Tiger You're only as cool as your last tee shirt.

2. Just Bee Bee the queen with this clutch.

Colette, 900 Asbury

Making Waves, 836 Asbury Dry Island, 965 Asbury

How will anyone know we live at

There is a funny joke somewhere here with dogs, patchouli, and needing a bath.

Wolf Serenity™ Decking with High-Density Cellular™ Technology is always in its element. No matter the weather, Serenity Decking looks beautiful, all while resisting moisture from rain and humid ocean air. ColorWatch100® technology helps block harmful UV rays to promote color retention — backed by a 50-year stain & fade warranty. With unique color variation and texture of real wood, its the perfect addition to any home.

As a premiere dealer for Wolf Home Products—a leader in superior Shoemaker Lumber can help you make your shore home even more beautiful. For decks and docks, choose Wolf Serenity for performance and style. For durable siding Wolf Portrait™ Siding with all

FALL EVENTS

Whether you’re planning a girls’ weekend, a weeklong family vacation, or a romantic getaway, there’s a reason every season to visit Downtown Ocean City, NJ.

Mark your Calendar

STREET ROD SHOW

Saturday, September 9

OCEAN CITY AIRPORT FESTIVAL

Saturday, September 16

FALL BLOCK PARTY

Saturday, October 7

West Avenue, Ocean (609) 399-0150 • shoemakerlumber.com

3. Spotted Line I hear all the cool poodles are wearing these.

1. Fish Stick

the beach? Pop one of these up on your porch and they'll know.

4. Good Dog

2. Dog Days OCNJ had a dog mascot named Hobo. It's true... and you're welcome.

Ocean City Historical Museum, 1735 Simpson Colette, 900 Asbury

LEH Soap, 939 Asbury

5. That's Balm It's balm to give lip stuff a special holster. Why should the hand sani have all the fun?

Shopping

DOWNTOWN

Art On Asbury The gallery offers work from over 50 local artists in watercolor, oil, acrylic, mixed media, photography, pottery, textiles, and sculptures. Original art, giclees, and prints are available for sale. 711 Asbury, 814-0308.

Artisan Body Products Organic, vegan, and gluten free soaps. Bathroom accessories, mens soaps and shaving needs, lotions and scrubs, gifts. 920 Asbury, 398-5661.

Bowfish Kids Posh children's seaside boutique. Organic cotton baby clothes, everyday staples for boys and girls, and superfun dress up clothes for your mini. 956 Asbury, 938-1901.

Capella's Oil & Vinegar Tasting room with oils and vinegars, curated home goods, specialty foods. Head in for a oil and vinegar pairing - we're vibing on honey ginger these days. 1123 Asbury, 609-568-6659.

Downtown Ocean City 100+ distinctive shops, cafes, galleries, spas, and salons, Downtown is home to the best in shopping, dining, culture, and relaxation. From 6th to 14th Streets on Asbury, 800-BEACH-NJ.

Kay Jay's Doll Shoppe Your at the shore toy store. An Ocean City destination since 1985. 737 Asbury, 399-5632.

Primitive Beach Locally-sourced coastal merchandise with soulful vibes. Be unapologetically you. 601 E. 9th, primitivebeachboutique.com.

Salty Seahorse Original art, jewelry, candles, pottery, and more. Plus a supercute dog named Finlay. 714 Asbury, 609-938-9173, www.saltyseahorse.com.

Thank you to all the businesses below who support Ocean City Magazine and the Ocean City Guidebook. Please visit them and tell them we sent you!

She'z the Boss Apparel, accessories, and more. Getting to chat with owner Jackie is part of the fun. Tell her we said hi. 709 Asbury, 609-2264880.

Shop Local Featuring over 20 local artists. Candles, keychains, jewelry, wall art, and more. 620A Asbury.

Shoppes at the Asbury Featuring gifts, clothes, jewelry, baby clothes, mens wear, and more. 801 Asbury, 545-8688.

Sneaker Shop Janet and Maureen know their stuff. Specializing in running footwear and apparel. They strive for the perfect fit. 704 Asbury, 391-5223.

Stainton's Gallery of Shops

Featuring gifts, clothes, jewelry and more. 810 Asbury, 545-8681; 1216 Boardwalk, new location.

BOARDWALK

Jilly’s T-Shirt Factory Get your Phillies at Jilly’s and lots more. 762, 936 and 1048 Boardwalk, 385-1234.

LEH Soap Using the best ingredients nature offers to make their small batch skin care. Also carrying an array of specialty bath and body products including Naked Bee, Farmhouse Fresh, Mistral, and more. 1312 Boardwalk. 937 Asbury, open year round.

Surf Mall The indoor shopping mall is filled with everything from novelty t-shirts to incense, sunglasses, an oxygen bar, beach essentials, games, trendy toys, surf gear, tie dye, jewelry, kids gear, posters, tapestries, and so much more. 1154 Boardwalk, 3981533.

Fudge Kitchen Candy that melts in your mouth. Huge selection of hand-

whipped creamy fudge, sugar-free selection, salt water taffy, choccovered pretzels, wedding favors, corporate gifts. Open everyday, year round. 800 Boardwalk, 398-7457.

Payton Jewelry Handmade jewelry, apothecary line, handpicked accessories. 952 Boardwalk, 9381276.

Shriver’s Salt Water Taffy & Fudge Shop the largest selection of candy in Ocean City while watching production of their fabulous sweets. Ships anywhere in the US. 9th and Boardwalk, 399-0100.

BAY/WEST

AVENUE

& SIDE STREETS

Shoemaker Lumber For all of your summer outdoor needs. From Beach Chairs, Deck Chairs, Trash Corrals to Weber Grills, they are in stock with free local delivery. 1200 West, 399-0150, www.shoemakerlumber. com.

Heritage Surf and Sport Surf lessons, camp, and women's surf club. Apparel and footwear for the entire family. Accessories and gear for the surf and sand. Fully stocked boardroom with accessories. 740 West, 398-6390 & 14th & Boardwalk, 391-SURF.

ON THE WAY TO OC

Yes She Can Bras, bra-sized swim, sleepwear, lingerie, shapewear, workout clothing. Professional bra fittings too. 50 Tuckahoe Road, 4783266.

MONEY SHOT

The team at Reich, Kyle McClure, Amy Mahon, Janna Mehic, and Eric Reich, recently moved into their new office building in Marmora.

By Kristen Dowd

TRENDS

PLANNING AHEAD

Reich Asset Management stays ahead of the curve to help clients plan for retirement

PLAN first, and then everything else will fall into place.

This isn’t just a tenet Eric Reich shares with his clients, but one that the president and founder of Reich Asset Management, LLC, has stayed true to in his own professional life. Of course, for an outsider looking in, it’s obvious that the success of the Marmora-based financial services firm fell into place not just from a well-thought-out plan, but also thanks to a dedicated, experienced and specialized team.

“We’re a full-service financial planning firm. What that means is we help people with everything,” Eric said. “We specialize in retirement, but we help people with everything from college planning, social security planning, health care planning and retirement, estate planning, portfolio management. Anything that relates to money in your financial life, we help plan for.

“That’s where the full-service part comes in.”

Reich Asset Management opened its doors in 2012, but Eric was in the business long before that, starting in 1996 when he was commuting back and forth to The Bellevue in Philadelphia. In 2000, he joined Kestra, the broker dealer he is still with now.

“My theory a long long time ago was that being independent was the way to go, long before it was popular,” Eric said. “I wanted to be able to offer everything – whatever the best thing was for my clients.”

Reich Asset Management is in the business of building roadmaps, which may sound strange for a financial company, but makes perfect sense when you consider these roadmaps are

taking a client from where they are now to where they want to see themselves at retirement – and beyond.

“The planning really helps. You can’t know where you are on the yardstick if you’re not measuring,” Eric said.

He believes Reich Asset Management’s strong standing in the community is thanks to the careful consideration and care they show their clients.

“I view people’s retirement like it’s my own. That’s why so many of our clients aren’t just clients. We’re friends with them. We socialize with them. We’re friendly because we take ownership of their life financially,” he said. “You can’t fake that level of caring. If you really care that much and you’re that passionate about what you do, it shows.”

Part of what goes into that caring and passion, of course, is understanding what’s changing in the industry. And this doesn’t just go for the investing side, but for the planning side, too.

For instance, something relatively new on the planning side right now is caring for aging parents, according to Eric. Two or three decades ago, this wasn’t much of a consideration. Today, however, someone retiring at 60 years old routinely will have parents that are still alive and need care.

“It’s a big issue lately,” Eric remarked. On the investment side, a big current trend is in considering the future of artificial intelligence, or AI.

“Because it’s such a transformational technology, a lot of people are trying to figure out who will be the winners and losers,” Eric said. “It will have big implications in the investment world.”

From drug trials to cybersecurity to copyrighting, there will be

areas that thrive with AI, whereas others will suffer. Clients want to know how they can invest to be ahead of the curve.

While Eric explained it’s tough to know since the technology is still in its infancy, he admitted that he believes AI is “the most impactful animal that we’ve ever seen,” likening its creation to that of the automobile or airplane.

In the 1990s, solar was a popular player in the investment sector. A decade ago, there was a lot of interest – wrongly so, according to Eric – in marijuana stocks.

But AI is different.

“It’s probably the biggest game changer I’ve seen in my career,” Eric said.

“Basically, it’s the beginning of the internet. If I went back and bought this little company named Google or Microsoft or even AOL back in the day, those things changed the world. I think that’s how I see AI coming along next,” he continued. “So it’s definitely stuff that people are asking about and we’re looking at.”

Regardless of whether a client is eyeing an investment in AI, Reich Asset Management is there to guide them to the right decision to fit their current lifestyle – and the lifestyle they want to live in retirement.

The first step is just giving them a call and setting up a meeting.

“Our first meeting is just to get to know you, and quite honestly for you to get to know us. First let’s make sure we’re a good fit,” Eric said. “The next step is planning, ideas – all that good stuff.”

Reich Asset Management, LLC, is located at 110 Roosevelt Boulevard, Suite 2W, Marmora, and can be reached by calling 609-486-5073.

Visit the company online at www.reichassetmanagement.com.

Disclosure: Securities offered through Kestra Investment Services, LLC (Kestra IS), member FINRA/SIPC. Investment advisory services offered

through Kestra Advisory Services, LLC (Kestra AS), an affiliate of Kestra IS. Reich Asset Management, LLC is not affiliated with Kestra IS or Kestra AS. To view form CRS visit https://bit.ly/KF-Disclosures.

Eric and team are joined by Eric's wife Chrissy, and two of their children, Riley and Cooper.

SHOPPES AT THE ASBURY shop talk

SHOPPES AT THE ASBURY IS LUXURY SHOPPING THAT

“LOCATION, location, location.”

It’s often said that a business’s location can make or break them. If that’s true, it’s a good thing Shoppes at The Asbury has the hottest location in Ocean City.

In May of this year, Shoppes at The Asbury opened within the former Crown Bank building on Asbury Avenue. The building first opened as a bank nearly 100 years ago in 1924, and after a recent bankruptcy fell into a state of disuse. While many investors displayed interest, in the end the Stainton’s brand bought out the building and turned it into a high-end boutique.

The building still bears marks from its former life. Set within the wall of the main storefront, tucked to the left of the door, is the former bank’s deposit box, and those who enter the building will be delighted in seeing the bank’s original vault.

“I think the safe is something that everybody is just in awe of. At any given time, we’ll see people standing by and looking at the safe,” Bridget Jacobson, director of operations for Shoppes at The Asbury, said. “It’s basically taking a step back in history... and a trip down memory lane for a lot of people.”

Although Shoppes at The Asbury has only been open

for a few months, Bridget has spoken to many visitors who used Crown Bank when it was in business.

“So for them to be able to see it open, it’s a little bittersweet for a lot of them,” she added.

The Shoppes at Asbury is more than just a revitalized bank building. It’s also an opportunity to support local small businesses and seeks to fill a void left in luxury, high-end goods.

“I think we’re able to capture a different customer, that doesn’t necessarily come down to the Avenue to do all of their shopping,” Bridget said. “I thought that this would be a great opportunity to not only be able to help small businesses be seen on the Avenue, but also fill in some of the gaps of product [offerings].”

Asbury Avenue is the downtown heart of Ocean City, boasting numerous popular restaurants and charming shops. Despite a variety of offerings, not one place combines several different goods together quite like Shoppes at The Asbury.

“People have been asking for cosmetics so I was able to bring in somebody, a local person, that’s her focus,” Bridget said. “I was able to bring in another children’s place, another woman’s boutique and then I partnered with some crafters so that we could bring in some hand-stitched leather goods, watches and jewelry.”

The current space is home to eight unique businesses,

each adding their own element to create the one-stop luxury shopping space Shoppes at The Asbury aims to be.

Diving Horse Supply Co. features handmade, American-sourced waxed canvas, cork, leather bags and accessories. Flirt! Luxe Lingerie and Sleepwear offers women the chance to look and feel their best with a wide assortment of sleepwear and lingerie options.

Filling in the gaps in everyday stylish men’s apparel is 8th & Crown, which sells shirts, pants and a myriad of fun sock designs. In parallel, Seagrass is a fun, stylish boutique for women. For earrings to sunglasses and more, look no further than Oliver & The Sea, which offers an array of handcrafted wooden products.

Cutting boards and cheese platters make the perfect addition to any gathering and Timber Lane has just that. For the little ones, Shoppes at The Asbury has White Bear, supplier of trendy kids clothing. Finally, to round things out, tucked within the front room of the old bank is Bëcé Beautē, a skin care line offering serums, washes and all other skin care necessities.

“We consider ourselves an incubator for small business,” Bridget explained. “So to be able to help small businesses get their products seen by people, whether [the customers are] in town for a week, a weekend or all year long has just been absolutely amazing.”

The current space was flipped in just four months, but there’s still much more work to be done. Further expansion into the upstairs is planned once the balcony and staircase are repaired and brought up to code. Ideas on future expansions including turning the vault into a jeweler and the upstairs area into a local art gallery featuring many mediums, from blown glass to pottery and photography.

“Having grown up in Ocean City, I remember going to Stainton’s when I was a child with my mom and my grandmother, so it’s kind of a little nostalgic for me [to be working for Stainton’s now],” Bridget said. “And we’re still helping the community... I just love that. We’ve been able to spread our wings up into the Boardwalk and open up a second location... and give people a reason to come and stay and support their community.”

Shoppes at The Asbury is located at 801 Asbury Avenue, Ocean City, and can be reached at 609-545-8688.

-

By

Chelsea Valcourt

upward onward &

OCEAN CITY GOES BACK TO SCHOOL, KISSES SUMMER GOODBYE >>

ALL GOOD THINGS MUST COME TO AN END.

Such is the case with every sweet Ocean City summer that draws to a close as the calendar flips from August to September.

Of course, one good thing coming to an end doesn’t mean another isn’t on the horizon.

With Labor Day officially in the rearview mirror, Ocean City residents can shift their focus from being America’s Greatest Family Resort to becoming a fertile learning ground for the country’s next generation of leaders. That’s right – it’s time to get in the educational mindset and prepare for the upcoming school year.

Over the summer, the Ocean City School District hired Dr. Scott McCartney to be the interim superintendent with a contract that runs from July through the end of the calendar year – or until a permanent superintendent is hired and can start.

“I think there’s a lot to like – some great people, it’s a caring community,” Scott said. “There’s a lot of wonderful families and the students pride themselves on – and demand – a top-quality education.”

Scott has 34 years of educational experience with previous stops in Lindenwold and Moorestown. Although he technically retired after 32 years of service, he spent the previous two years doing some interim work as a principal and assistant principal before joining the Ocean City family.

“It’s a wonderful environment that I want to be a part of,” he said.

Housekeeping notes

As much as things in an environment stay the same, such as the basic subjects and the necessary lunchtime, things can and will change from year-to-year.

For instance, Scott mentioned that the Ocean City Primary School renovated its playground surface which will be ready when the students return to school. Keeping with Ocean City’s youngest learners, primary school principal Dr. Cathleen Smith said the school has expanded the Wilson Reading Center to service more students in second and third grade, including children with dyslexia and other language-based difficulties to help them sharpen their spelling skills and more.

The primary school has also applied to be a Title I school buildingwide, Cathleen added, which would afford the school additional needbased funding through a federal program.

“If approved, we will welcome a homework clinic after school once a week,” Cathleen said.

Scott added there aren’t any other new construction or total upgrade projects in the works that would require the district to go out for a bond referendum.

“From what I can see, the district and city work together and the facilities are in great shape,” he said. “That’s something that, in my very short time, is clear and it’s a great partnership for that.”

When it comes to the high school, Scott was proud to announce a few new courses, such as data science in the math department and interior design in the family and consumer science department. He added the district plans to expand its American Sign Language program by adding honors ASL 4 into the world language department.

In terms of other offerings to the high school students, there is a new and improved Student Learning Center coming which is essentially an extension of the classroom where students can meet with their peers or teachers to study or have discussions. The space also offers a quiet place to study, Scott added.

The high school has also joined the world of Esports – or electronic sports – which is a competitive sports environment in the video game realm. A new arena on the second floor of the high school offers a dual credit Esports program where the high school is partnered with Harrisburg University – one of the few universities that offers a bachelor’s of science degree in Esports management.

Basic scheduling

The first day of school for all three schools in the district – the high school, intermediate school and primary school – is scheduled for Tuesday, September 5. At the high school, the teachers plan to line the hallways to welcome the students for the new year while the band and choir sing. At the primary school, music and bubbles will greet the students, as is tradition.

Back to School Night at the high school is scheduled for Thursday, October 5 at 6pm. The following week, school is closed on Monday, October 9, and Spirit Week kicks off on Tuesday, culminating with the fall pep rally and the homecoming game against Millville High School at 6pm on Friday, October 13. The Homecoming dance is Saturday, October 14, from 7 to 10pm.

To view the district or individual school calendars, visit oceancityschools.org.

Finding the right fit

With the district and Scott under a mutual agreement that the “interim” tag will remain that way, it is of the utmost importance the two work together to find the right leader for the future of the district. Scott made it clear he wasn’t comfortable with a long-term role, but he will attack the job with the same enthusiasm he had on the first day of his first year of work. Both he and the board are looking for someone ready to invest in the community with short-term, mid-term and longterm goals in mind.

“I believe I bring a lot of experience, a lot of stability,” he said. “I know my role is focused on helping the next leader do those things I spent my career doing.

“I want to help and support the school and pass the torch to someone who shares the values I share.”

Scott is proactive and prepared to move the district forward. Walking the line between knowing his time is limited while wanting to impact the district is a challenge he is ready to face head on. He wants to find a more permanent solution in the superintendent role while providing attention to the students, teachers and staff of the district.

“It’s an honor and privilege to serve the students and residents of Ocean City,” Scott said. “We’re going to work really hard to make it a great place for kids to learn and prepare them for the future. It’s the thing I’ve done every day.”

Text by Anthony J. Mazziotti III. Photos by Stef Godfrey & Brian Kerchner, ocnjdrone.com.

Stories worth telling.

By Kristen Dowd

Loretta Thompson Harris captures history of community’s residents of color in ‘ The Westside: Ocean City in True Color ’

That fascination, however, was quickly tinged with concern when Loretta realized these Westside neighborhood stories had never been documented. And as older generations pass on and descendents scatter across the globe, she worried they never would be.

“I thought, we’re all getting old and we’ll be gone, and nothing will be here to say the Westside ever existed,” Loretta said. “I kept having this nagging thought that someone needs to write this and, eventually, I decided I need to be the one to do it.”

After all of the research she had already completed, Loretta realized she was the likely candidate. And with the publication of “The Westside: Ocean City in True Color” this past spring, her dream came to fruition.

THE PATH TO WRITING

Of course, Loretta is quick to admit she never saw herself as an author. She had a successful 32-year career with Atlantic City Electric, wearing many hats along the way, but authoring books was certainly not one of them. Upon retirement, Loretta continued as a consultant for companies in Atlantic City for a few years, too.

“And then I retired forever forever,” she said with a laugh. “So, I have been fully retired since 2000.”

But while her career with Atlantic City Electric did not turn her into an author, per say, it did ultimately open the door that led her to the Westside stories. She joined many organizations in Atlantic City during her career, including the National Association of Negro Business and Professional Women. With a mission focusing in four areas – health, education, employment and economic development – the group often offered programs to the community.

One of those programs about 30 years ago was on tracing your family history.

“Everyone was enthused about tracing their family history. It was just getting started,” Loretta recalled. “That’s when I actually started working on my family tree, and then it just grew and grew and grew.”

Loretta is a fourth-generation Ocean City resident. Born and raised on the island, she has lived her entire life in Ocean City (and now in nearby Upper Township) save for a few years in Massachusetts when her husband was in the military.

When Loretta Thompson Harris was uncovering her own family tree, she stumbled onto something quite fascinating:

Ocean City’s Westside had a rich, vibrant history.

“I kept having this nagging thought that someone needs to write this and, eventually, I decided I need to be the one to do it.”

“Everyone wants to know who they are, why they’re here, how they came to be and how they fit into the overall puzzle.”

She is a member of Ocean City High School Class of 1963 and was one of six siblings who grew up in a historic home on the island. As she dug into this rich history, things started to break away from her own family and into the Westside as a whole.

Equipped with so many stories, Loretta ultimately decided to divide and conquer, planning several books instead of a single volume. There are two more coming, and possibly even a memoir as a final book.

“That,” Loretta said, “will tell the complete story.”

“The Westside” tells of the earliest history of Ocean City’s residents of color, from the city’s founding in 1879 to 1940. It focuses on how people arrived on the island, the first residents, the early churches.

It would be impossible to choose a favorite part of the book, Loretta admitted. She talked to descendants to gather some stories, such as the gentleman who used to be the ice man in town, and also the tales of John Pye and John Trower, who contributed a great deal to the Westside’s development.

‘EVERYBODY WAS INTERESTED’

Loretta wasn’t sure what type of impact her book would have. When discussing how many books to order for the event with her two daughters, Loretta settled on 100.

“I thought that should be sufficient. It would most likely be the people of color from Ocean City who would be interested in this book,” Loretta recalled. “Well, I was quite wrong. It turned out that everybody was interested.”

“It was a much larger audience than I ever expected.”

When Loretta parked her car for the 2pm signing, she was almost an hour early. Someone came up to her car and asked if she was the author.

“I said yes, and he said he’d like to buy nine books and if I would please sign two of them,” Loretta remembered with a laugh. “I said please come inside.”

When they went indoors, there was already a line snaking through the building for the event – a line that continued until closing.

“It never stopped. People had been waiting to see this book,” Loretta said. “I was shocked. Absolutely shocked.”

Why there was such interest in her book, Loretta can’t be completely sure. But she believes it’s because people want to know where they come from, and they want to know the stories about the place they call home.

“Everyone wants to know who they are, why they’re here, how they came to be and how they fit into the overall puzzle,” Loretta said. “I think everyone basically just wants to know that - no matter who they are or where they are.”

“The Westside: Ocean City in True Color” can be purchased at the Ocean City Historical Museum, located in the Ocean City Community Center, 1735 Simpson Avenue, Ocean City, and on Amazon.

Ghost stories come to life

By Kristen Dowd

Paranormal investigators look for proof of spirits across the Garden State

Kenny Lund handles equipment during a paranormal investigation with New Jersey Paranormal.

A painting of Emily the ghost.

Tania Lund and Chris Therrien, members of New Jersey Paranormal, look at an historic artifact.

WE’RE ALL BORN WITH THE ABILITY TO SENSE THE SUPERNATURAL.

At least, that’s what paranormal investigator and researcher Nancy Davis believes.

It’s an ability that fades away with childhood, she explained, but one that can resurface when we’re adults. Society, however, snuffs it out.

“You think, ‘I’m too old for that,’ or that your religion won’t allow it,” Nancy reflected. “That curiosity gets tucked away. But it’s a part of us.”

That connection may feel a little more present this time of year, when store shelves are stocked with Halloween costumes and yards are decorated with ghosts and goblins. That makes sense to Nancy, who explained that around All Hallow’s Eve on October 31, the veil between the human and spirit worlds is thinner.

For a paranormal investigator, however, connecting with spirits happens all year.

“Ghosts don’t appear on cue,” Nancy mused.

Some Ocean City residents – and visitors – know this all too well. This seaside resort has its fair share of ghost stories, the most famous being Emily at The Flanders Hotel. The young ghost has allegedly been spotted time and again by both employees and guests of the building, running the halls in a white gown.

The legend of Emily is a perfect example of what can draw in a paranormal investigator like Nancy. Equipped with a variety of items that record sound, measure electricity and detect movement, an investigator will set up shop at a potentially haunted locale, spending hours to catch a single spoken word or shadowed figure that makes it all worthwhile.

“If you believe in the science of the paranormal or the theories around the fact that we are biochemical electric beings, when the battery of the body dies … we transition to an energy-based being,” John Ruggiero, founder of New Jersey Paranormal, explained. “That’s what we’re measuring – an increase of energy around us that’s different. It’s a change in the environment. Energy where there was none.”

Going where the ghosts go

New Jersey Paranormal was founded in 2009 and is based in Central Jersey, but the team will bring its ghost hunting skills anywhere in the state. They have not yet had the chance to have any otherworldly experiences in Ocean City. At least, not yet.

“We’ve never been down that far,” John said, adding, “not that we wouldn’t go.”

That’s because New Jersey Paranormal goes where the ghosts are – or, at least, where they hope they are.

The group hosts regular public ghost hunts at different locations in the state, which is an opportunity for any curious individual to get a chance to experience a paranormal investigation over about four hours. These events are fundraisers for local historical societies, too.

New Jersey Paranormal also makes house calls.

“We do assist people privately if there’s an issue, if they think there are spirits in their home, their business – pretty much anywhere,” John explained.

This can mean simply trying to figure out what, if anything, has taken up residence in the building. It can also mean trying to encourage that paranormal entity to move on.

“Many people call us in to do house clearings,” Nancy, who is based in

South Philadelphia but does many ghost investigations in the Garden State, said.

Nancy believes there are spirits of all strengths and abilities. Some are fairly weak and move on quickly, whereas others may be stuck or unwilling to move on. Those spirits would be stronger.

“The ghosts and spirits, from what I have seen and what I have experienced, they are an energy. It’s a signature of what was once a living being, a likeness of somebody who hasn’t gone on,” Nancy said.

“An intelligent spirit,” she continued, “is one that can actually interact with you and answer your questions and possibly see you.”

John also believes spirits carry the imprint of who their previous living forms.

“I think a spirit or a ghost is the energy and the consciousness of what once was a living person,” he said. “I believe that energy does have the memories, the personality, the emotions of the person from when they were living.”

Ghost hunting 101

Unlike how it is portrayed on television, a ghost hunting expedition is rarely a scene of nonstop excitement and action. Over the course of several hours or even overnight, paranormal investigators will stake out a building, using a variety of devices to try to capture some ghostly evidence.

Equipment includes basic digital voice recorders and instruments that react to motion, temperature and electricity. Some change color when touched, too.

“Not to be disrespectful to spirits, but it’s communication for dummies,” John said. “You try to do all that you can to give them the tools, as well as us the tools, to bridge that gap and make communication as easy as possible and to document it.

“There is a science to it, believe it or not.”

Does it work? It depends on what one believes. But Nancy and John have seemingly endless stories to share about paranormal experiences – and plenty of recordings to back them up.

“The more incredible ones are the ones where they reference my name or the name of someone in the room,” Nancy said.

New Jersey Paranormal has more than 130,000 followers on Facebook, a testament, John believes, to the fact that ghost hunting is so much more mainstream than it was a few decades ago.

“We’re all about building a community, to grow,” John said. “Thirty years ago if you mentioned a spirit in your house, people thought you were nuts. Now you can look for help if you need it.”

Contact Nancy Davis at www.11thhousereiki.com. Reach out to New Jersey Paranormal at newjerseyparanormal.com or by email at newjerseyparanormal@yahoo.com. The group can also be found on Facebook @newjerseyparanormal, as well as other social media platforms.

On the Beach Beach Reads

first lines x

True!–nervous–very, very dreadfully nervous I had been and am; but why will you say that I am mad? The disease had sharpened my senses–not destroyed–not dulled them. Above all was the sense of hearing acute.

first lines

TEN days they held me there. Ten days, with only the stink of my own flesh for company. Not even a rat graced me with its presence. There was nothing to attract it; they had brought me no food. Only ale.

first lines

"Approaching the museum, ready to hunt, Stéphane Breitwieser clasps hands with his girlfriend... Then they purchase two tickets with cash and walk in. It's lunchtime, stealing time, on a busy Sunday in Ant-werp, Belgium, in February 1997.

-Stef Godfrey

Thank you to all the businesses below who support Ocean City Magazine and the Ocean City Guidebook. Please visit them and tell them we sent you!

On the Beach Spot Me

Think You Know Ocean City?

Sit back, get comfy in your beach chair and see if you know where you can find these places and things around the island

On the Beach Word Search

WAVES FOR DAYS

CAREY STADIUM

SEVENTH STREET

BEST WITCHES

BROOMSTICK

WART

AUTUMNAL EQUINOX

SNACK ATTACK LUNCH BUNCH SAND

THE TIDE IS HIGH APPLE CIDER

PUMPKIN EVERYTHING

HOWL O WEEN PARADE

Be Well

WITH LAUREN DECKARD

By Lauren Deckard, LMT, NASM-CPT Owner of Peak Mobility

SURFING AS A MINDFUL PRACTICE

THE OCEAN – a sanctuary for mental health and well-being. Surfing – a constant rhythm between effort, release, balance, and letting go. A mindful practice that helps you stay present and relaxed, while becoming intertwined with something bigger than yourself.

In an age where we’re distracted by doom scrolling and constant notifications on every smart device, surfing requires your complete attention and to put technology away. As you paddle out to catch a wave, your mind begins to clear, leaving behind everyday stress and worries. Beyond the physical benefits of strength, balance, and cardio, surfing offers much needed mental and emotional rewards. It teaches us the power of resilience and adaptability – to adapt to the shifting tides, read the patterns of the water, and adjust your approach accordingly.

When you’re out on the water, your mind becomes quiet. You’re not thinking about this morning’s problems or tomorrow’s to-do list (much like meditating, maybe you will be in

the beginning, but the more often you’re out on the water, the quieter your mind becomes); you’re fully immersed in the here and now. This connection to nature has been shown to improve mood, boost self-esteem, and foster a sense of awe and gratitude.

Studies have shown that mindfulness practices like this can have a positive impact on mental health. Engaging in mindful activities activates our parasympathetic nervous system, triggering a relaxation response in the body. This response helps to reduce stress, anxiety, and depression, while promoting feelings of calmness and wellbeing.

Surfing invites you to embrace the vastness of the ocean, the power of the waves, and the beauty of the coastline. All serving as reminders of our place in the natural world. So, like many, if you need an escape from the everyday, consider giving surfing a try. There aren’t many excuses – the ocean is right here; you just need a board.

Find lessons and rentals for you and your family at 7th Street Surf Shop or Heritage Surf Shop.

Reclaim Independence in Senior Living

Assisted Living at United Methodist Communities at The Shores provides assistance with activities of daily living so that you or your loved one can reclaim independence. In a secure environment, our residents feel empowered to rediscover their interests and confidently do more of the things they’ve always wanted to do.

To learn more about Assisted Living at United Methodist Communities at The Shores, visit TheShores.UMCommunities.org. Residential

OC Services Directory

PLACES TO STAY

Atlantis Inn Boutique Hotel Europeaninspired hotel, beach block location. 601 Atlantic Avenue, 399-9871.

Beach Club Hotel Ocean views, pool, sun terrace. 1280 Boardwalk, 399-8555.

Beach Club Suites Near Boardwalk, wellappointed, one-bedroom suites. 1217 Ocean Avenue, 399-4500.

Ebb Tide Suites One and two bedroom apartments with balconies steps from beach. 1001 Little Atlantic Avenue, 391-9614.

Ocean 7 Family-friendly property with standard and king efficiencies or two room suites. Heated outdoor pool. 870 East 7th, 609-398-2200.

Pier 4 Contemporary, four story high rise hotel with spectacular bay views. Family-run. 6 Broadway, Somers Point. 609-927-9141.

Scarborough Inn Ocean City's oldest hotel, built in 1895. From iconic pink fish scale shingles, to Benny Goodman playing on the gramophone, this inn brings a cozy vibe. 720 Ocean, 609-399-1558.

Jilly's Properties Several options for your stay. Clean, affordable, and unique properties in top locations. 609-385-1234.

Harris House Motel Clean, comfy, and quiet rooms and a heated pool. 1201 Ocean Avenue, 399-7800.

The Impala Island Inn Refrigerators, free WiFi, and cable. 1001 Ocean Avenue, 399-7500.

Osborne’s Inn 50 yards from Boardwalk, free Wi-Fi, ocean view decks, parking and beach tags. 601 East 15th Street, 398-4319.

Port-O-Call Hotel Wi-Fi, meeting areas for gala receptions, small board meetings or large conferences. 1510 Boardwalk, 399-8812.

Wild Dunes Inn Luxurious suites – spacious and furnished near Boardwalk. 801 10th Street, 399-2910.

ASSET MANAGEMENT

Reich Asset Management 105 Roosevelt Boulevard, Marmora, 486-5073.

INSURANCE AGENCY

McMahon Insurance Agency Multiple locations, 399-0060.

REALTORS

Monihan Realty Multiple locations, 800255-0998.

Berger Realty Multiple locations, 888399-0076.

Pete Madden Goldcoast Sotheby's 200 34th Street, 513-4781.

Daniel Maimone Compass Real Estate 201 34th Street, 670-9978.

Long & Foster 14 E. 9th Street, 398-6762.

MEDICAL

Atlantic Coast Dentistry 450 Shore, Somers Point, 601-9566.

Ocean City Dental Center 6th & West, 399-4542.

Ocean City Family Practice Center 500 6th Street, 399-1862

Cape Regional Urgent Care Quick, convenient, quality care. 8 Route 9 South, Marmora, 465-6364.

SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGEMENT/ MARKETING/DESIGN

Gone Native Communications Newsletters, books, magazines, ad design, brochures, rack cards, logos, more. Call 609-525-4830.

PHOTOGRAPHY

Kelly and Craig Photography Jersey Shore residents who work up and down South Jersey's coast. 267-614-5335, www.kellyandcraigphotography.com

RETIREMENT

UMC The Shores Excellent care, friendly residents, delicious food - retirement living at its best. All levels of care. 2201 Bay Avenue, 609-399-8505.

CONSTRUCTION

Shore Construction & Remodel Customized solutions for every homeowner. 877-626-6111. remodelattheshore.com.

Thank you to all the businesses below who support Ocean City Magazine and the Ocean City Guidebook. Please visit them and tell them we sent you!

All About the OC

The Welcome to Ocean City Guidebook 2023 is available in hotel/motel rooms and rentals all over the island. This hardback book is a fab guide to the island and its surrounding communities. Loads of fresh, colorful pics, and helpful text inside. Get yours for $25 at www.ocnjmagazine.com.

While you're there... you can read this issue, previous issues, and so much more.

©2023

Ocean City magazine

Editor in Chief

Stefanie Godfrey editor@ocnjmagazine.com

Sales Director

Bill Godfrey localocean@comcast.net

Graphic Design

Kirsty Smith

Editorial

Kristen Dowd

Contributors

Fred Miller, Lauren Deckard, Amy Mahon, Linda Arceo, Anthony J. Mazziotti III, Kevin Callahan, Chelsea Valcourt

Photographers

Kerri Janto & Katelin Keane

Cover Artist

Lauren DeMarco IG @laurenspired

Cuddler in Chief Olive the Bernedoodle

OC Services Real Tour

Exceptional Corner Duplex in Ocean City

Nestled at the coveted address of 871-73 Brighton, this prime corner property offers a luxurious and unparalleled coastal living experience. Boasting a remarkable blend of elegant design, thoughtful appointments, and modern amenities, this duplex presents a chance to own a slice of paradise in one of Ocean City's most sought-after locations. The first floor of this pristine dwelling unveils a meticulously furnished four bedroom, two and a half bathroom haven. The second and third levels of this enchanting property offer a distinctive dual-level retreat - a five bedroom, three and a half bathroom upper cottage.

Listed by Berger Realty, 3160 Asbury, Ocean City, NJ Contact Gray Haenn 215-421-7609 • GrayOCNJ@gmail.com

871-73 Brighton Ocean City

Last Shot

Flight Risk

Photographer Sue Allen continues to impress us with her incredible capture of our local island nature scene. This skimmer is in full flight right above the ground. See more snapshots of life in and around OCNJ on page 18.

Photo by Susan Allen, @what.sue.seas.