Ocean City Magazine May 2023

Page 1

Ocean City

MAY 2023 The Premier Lifestyle Magazine for America’s Greatest Family Resort
If you want a subscription to Ocean City Magazine... raise your hands! $40 for 6 issues www.ocnjmagazine.com/subscribe editor@ocnjmagazine.com Ocean City

"Every time I slip into the ocean, it's like going home," Sylvia Earl

Solstice Morning

Local artist Lauren DeMarco created our May cover of the beautiful light in Ocean City. See more of Lauren's work at @Laurenspired on Instagram. This issue and previous issues are readable on www.ocnjmagazine.com.

16

Cheers

It's time to toast mom, grad, your new summer pad with this cocktail by Linda Arceo.

Word Search

This curiously difficult puzzle has a contest within. Solve it for a chance to win a prize.

9

In the Kitchen

Lisa's Sweet Treats is OC's newest bakery, bringing creative confections to the Downtown.

Real Tour

62

In the market for an island home? This listing by Remax's Dan Maimone is a southend gem.

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 June 1 from correct entries to win a $50 gift card to Top Sail Steamer

3 Contents 4 The List/Tides 5 Horoscopes 6 Letter from the Editor 9 In the Kitchen 12 Dining Guide 14 Sunday Girl Eats 16 Cheers 18 IYKYK 20 Snapshot 28 Let's Get Crafty 30 It’s History by Fred Miller 32 Meet the Maker 36 Must Haves May 40 Store Guide 42 Trends - Interiors 44 Shop Talk - Shoemaker Lumber 46 Love of Reading 50 Back to Nature 54 Building Community 56 Beach Reads 57 Activities Guide 58 Spot It Quiz 59 Word Search 60 Be Well 61 Services Guide 62 Real Tour 66 Last Shot
2023
May
IN
THIS ISSUE
59

On the Radar

THE LIST

It’s a new beach season!

Get ready to hit the sand, pick up a new-to-you soap scent, and plant some fresh flowers with our May recs.

1. Rice, rice baby

Dig in to Napolitano arancini (stuffed with mozzarella, risotto, and marinara) from Capo Strada, 501 East 9th Street.

2. Love you more than cupcakes

Pick up a peanut butter pie and some cupcakes from Lisa’s Sweet Treats, 1046 Asbury Avenue.

3. Bloom where you are planted

Plant some pansies from 34th Street Market to brighten up your garden.

4. Boogie wonderland!

Elevate your sand castle excavation tools and pick up some fresh boogie boards at Island Beach Gear, 2 West 9th Street.

5. Nailed it

Get your feet ready for flip flop season with a pedicure done with non-toxic polish by Gypsea Beauty at Beehive Studio, 616 Asbury Avenue.

6. New scent, who dis?

Ring in the new season by trying a new scent of soap from LEH Soap, 1312 Boardwalk and 937 Asbury Avenue. We recommend Citrus Twist.

TIDE FORECAST

Good to Know

On May 1st, the sun rises at 5:59am and sets at 7:51pm. On May 31st, the sun rises at 5:33am and sets at 8:18pm.

May High Tide Low Tide 1 5:05am 3.8 5:40pm 3.8 11:25am 0.6 11:42pm 0.6 2 5:50am 3.9 6:20pm 4.2 12:01pm 0.4 3 6:31am 4.0 6:57pm 4.5 12:26am 0.3 12:37pm 0.2 4 7:11am 4.0 7:35pm 4.7 1:09am 0.1 1:12pm 0.1 5 7:50am 4.0 8:13pm 5.0 1:52am 0.0 1:49pm 0.0 6 8:31am 3.9 8:53pm 5.1 2:36am -0.1 2:27pm 0.0 7 9:13am 3.8 9:36pm 5.1 3:21am -0.1 3:09pm 0.0 8 9:59am 3.7 10:23pm 5.1 4:09am -0.1 3:55pm 0.1 9 10:51am 3.5 11:15pm 5.0 5:01am 0.0 4:46pm 0.2 10 11:51am 3.4 5:58am 0.1 5:46pm 0.4 11 12:15am 4.8 12:59pm 3.4 6:58am 0.2 6:54pm 0.5 12 1:21am 4.6 2:12pm 3.5 8:01am 0.2 8:08pm 0.6 13 2:30am 4.5 3:21pm 3.8 9:02am 0.1 9:21pm 0.5 14 3:37am 4.4 4:22pm 4.1 10:00am 0.0 10:27pm 0.3 15 4:38am 4.3 5:17pm 4.4 10:53am -0.1 11:28pm 0.1 16 5:34am 4.3 6:07pm 4.7 11:42am -0.2 17 6:26am 4.3 6:53pm 5.0 12:23am -0.1 12:29pm -0.2 18 7:13am 4.2 7:36pm 5.1 1:14am -0.2 1:12pm -0.2 19 7:59am 4.0 8:17pm 5.1 2:02am -0.2 1:55pm -0.1 20 8:43am 3.9 8:58pm 5.0 2:48am -0.2 2:36pm 0.0 21 9:26am 3.7 9:38pm 4.9 3:34am 0.0 3:16pm 0.2 22 10:10am 3.5 10:19pm 4.7 4:18am 0.1 3:57pm 0.5 23 10:56am 3.3 11:01pm 4.4 5:04am 0.3 4:39pm 0.7 24 11:44am 3.2 11:46pm 4.2 5:50am 0.5 5:24pm 0.9 25 12:36pm 3.1 6:38am 0.7 6:15pm 1.1 26 12:34am 4.0 1:31pm 3.1 7:26am 0.8 7:11pm 1.2 27 1:27am 3.8 2:26pm 3.2 8:14am 0.8 8:12pm 1.2 28 2:23am 3.7 3:19pm 3.4 9:00am 0.8 9:13pm 1.1 29 3:18am 3.6 4:08pm 3.7 9:44am 0.7 10:10pm 0.9 30 4:11am 3.6 4:54pm 4.0 10:26am 0.6 11:03pm 0.7 31 5:01am 3.6 5:37pm 4.4 11:08am 0.4 11:53pm 0.5

Aries

March 21 - April 19

You’re going through a good term for working together with your better half on your nest, your living space, and your ties to your loved ones. If you’re involved in a solid connection that’s unofficial, the one you love might want to move in with you and start a family. Financially, if you set out to take a loan or get some funding, you might conclude that during the first half of the month it’s not easy at all. Healthwise, it’s time to invest in a better diet and better hygiene products. If you need to, don’t hesitate to see a doctor even if that means investing time and money.

Taurus

April 20 - May 20

The energy of the lunar eclipse of May 5, though it can prove to be turbulent, helps you realize whether your relationship is balanced and fair so that neither partner will feel like they’re being censored or marginalized. Professional partnerships and collaborations can be affected by various issues, and some of them might end. Clear up some things related to an employment contract or some other type of contract.

Gemini

May 21 - June 20

This month, Geminians become more emotional (sometimes even melancholic) and are interested in exploring the emotional side of their amorous interactions rather than the intellectual side. Professionally, there might be changes at work or you could go through an epiphany related to the money you earn. You could also deal with a situation that proves that you need to sharpen your skills, try harder, and strive to become more competent professionally. Healthwise, this term can bring to light some older issues to address without delay.

Cancer

June

21 - July 22

The romantic connection you’re involved in could be tested but you shouldn’t worry about that. If the connection is solid, it has every chance at making it and even becoming stronger, evolving towards a higher level, more harmonious, that makes you feel fulfilled. Professionally, you’re starting to see the results of the efforts you’ve put in. In order to achieve

your income goals, get informed patiently, redo some calculations, and determine what resources you need so that you can make realistic decisions. You stand out with more ease as part of a group or working as part of a team. It wouldn’t hurt to get involved in supporting a joint cause, for instance a social cause.

Leo

July 23 - August 22

For many Leos now begins a pretty difficult time emotionally and when it comes to family life. Pay attention to your family life, ties to close ones, and how you express your feelings both in your own family and when it comes to your parents. Professionally, there could be a major change in the path of some Leos. In order to deal with the difficulties and plot twists, you need to deal with your emotional balance. The power comes from within you, not from outside of you.

Virgo

August 23 - September 22

For many Virgoans now comes a pretty hectic time in terms of relationships. At work, when it comes to a joint project, things might become contentious, and it could be difficult to reach a common ground. Emotionally, you might be troubled by various existential dilemmas. Be very careful how you communicate and how you behave with others because you risk making dangerous enemies.

Libra

September 23 - October 22

You get the chance to attract with more ease some funding you need or earn a significant amount of money. But manage your money wisely. Otherwise, there’s a risk of wasting away what you gained instead of benefiting from some useful equity. Try to be open to the views of others, their feelings, and what the people around you desire. Don’t pressure people, particularly in romantic ties and when it comes to money.

Scorpio

October 23 - November 21

You could deal with a moment of personal crisis when you feel the need to redefine your perception of yourself or how you present yourself to others. You might conclude that some family matters have to be cleared up or

you feel bothered by the ideas of some people close to you. It’s the right time to let go of what prevents you from enjoying life but be mindful to steer clear of aggressive attitudes.

Sagittarius

November 22 - December 21

Your better half is going through a relatively tough time emotionally or materially and needs your support. Prove they can count on your unconditional help. Careerwise, you can start an excellent professional path provided you prove to be flexible and let go of some preconceived ideas that are only narrowing down your horizons and diminishing your opportunities for growth. Make more time for relaxation, introspection, meditation.

Capricorn

December 22 - January 19

Some professional partnerships, associations, or collaborations can be tested around the beginning of the month. A source of funds might be downsized or the profit you get from a business could become smaller, which pushes for the renegotiation of some fees for clients or suppliers or so on. Try to come up with a clear budget from the beginning of the month and follow it strictly even if temptations are powerful.

Aquarius

January 20 - February 18

Get closer to loved ones and improve your family life and your living space. Some Aquarians could have heated discussions that turn into arguments. If partners aren’t careful to be as tolerant and flexible as possible, in some cases things can lead to temporary separations or even final breakups. Look for allies and collaborators. Don’t make shows of force and don’t have authoritarian outbursts because you risk pushing people away.

Pisces

February 19 - March 20

If you and your better half are upset with each other and haven’t spoken for a while, this month helps you to reach reconciliation sooner. For singles, this transit favors the beginning of new emotional ties. Healthwise, throughout May you could experience allergies or various dietary intolerances. - by Eastrolog.com. For entertainment purposes only.

5
Monthly Horoscope

Read my mind

NO MATTER how long you’ve been away from OC, whether it’s a day, a week, or an entire year, when you walk back over the dunes and catch that first glimpse of the sun’s rays glittering on the water - it always packs a bit of a thrill. We think that moment captures Ocean City’s timeless lure and knew it was just right for May’s cover.

This got me thinking, what’s your OC moment? When does it finally feel like you’ve arrived on the island? Maybe it’s before you even get here, as you ride over the bridge and the island comes into view. Or perhaps it’s when you walk into your fave Downtown shop.

Local artist Lauren DeMarco created our May cover piece, entitled “Solstice.” It captures the light and energy of classic OC. Lauren loves Ocean City as much as we do and we’re excited to inspire you with her mixed media art covers each month.

Inspiration comes in so many ways, and we feel lucky to send it your way each month in Ocean City Magazine with features on the awesome things to do and make, business people, events, shops, restaurants, photography, recipes, and more. I get inspired on the daily by OC’s natural beauty and by its community. The business owners and employees work hard

It's been a spring filled with crew (that's the OC Crew team novice 8 boat competing at Lake Lenape) and dogs. Olive the bernedoodle joined our family in March and loves OC as much as we do.

year-round planning cool events and getting things ready for our summer friends to arrive.

And that time is now. Welcome back friends.

This month in OC Mag, we have a few new contributors, led by Kristen Dowd, who’s taken a larger role and lending her editorial prowess to our rag each month. Kristen grew up in these parts and is a graduate of OCHS. Plus she loves dogs and baking.

If you’re a fan of sweets, check out In the Kitchen with Lisa’s Sweet Treats on page 9 and Amy Mahon’s recipe for liege waffles on page 14. Bookies (is that what us book fans are called?) flip to page 46 for a feature on the little libraries popping up all over the island. There’s lots more packed into the pages from little libraries to big ideas, along with love and good vibes. Spread that love around, chat with your neighbors and the business owner or employees when you shop or eat, visit places you've never tried and share if you liked it.

“Cause I don’t shine, if you don’t shine… before you go, can you read my mind?” –

6 OCNJMAGAZINE.COM MAY 2023
Visit www.ocnjmagazine.com to sign up for our summer Beachin' Emails, bringing you fun, fresh ideas, features, games, fab photos (like the ones above), and more all about OCNJ. Facebook facebook.com/ OceanCityMagazine Instagram instagram.com/ ocnjmagazine
From the Editor
8 OCNJMAGAZINE.COM MAY 2023 9th & Atlantic, OCNJ • 609-391-0222 www.augiesocnj.com Open 7am-2pm Daily in Season • Call for Hours Off Season The Cure for the Common Omelette •Breakfast All Day •Kids Menu •Daily Lunch Specials •Homemade Soups Scan for online ordering! OCEAN CITY BOARDWALK 14th St. (Open Year Round) • 8th St. • 6th St. 609-398-5404 www.JohnsonsPopcorn.com MAIL ORDER 609-398-5404 www.JohnsonsPopcorn.com • • • • •Corporate Gifts •Party Favors •Souvenirs WE SHIP ANYWHERE GET CONNECTED

WITH

LISA’S SWEET TREATS

LISA Nugent has always dreamt of having a bakery, and her dream came true earlier this year when she opened up her shop, Lisa’s Sweet Treats, on Asbury Avenue. The bakery’s expansive menu includes decadent cherry danish, tangy key lime tarts, soft butter cookies and every sweet offering in between. Though the business has smoothly transitioned into what is sure to become an Ocean City staple, the journey to get there was anything but easy.

While she had always liked baking, Lisa opened her shop after going through hardship.

“I got very sick and it was a point in my life that was very difficult for my family and I,” Lisa recalled.

Fortunately, she pulled through her illness, and the experience caused her to reexamine some aspects of her life – such as deciding to do what brings her the most joy or, namely, baking.

“That kind of drove me to open the bakery. I didn’t want to not do it and feel regret of not doing it,” Lisa thoughtfully added. “I realized

life is short and everybody should do things that bring them happiness and joy.”

Baking has always been a fun pastime for Lisa and her sisters, and it continues to be something that brings them together. One sister owns a bakery in Maryland, and another helps bake dog treats that are sold at Lisa’s Sweet Treats. The treats come in three sizes with fun, canineloving flavors such as cheeseburger, peanut butter and a seasonal pumpkin oatmeal.

“I’ve always liked baking,” Lisa said. “When I was baking with my sisters, it was just something that I always enjoyed.”

Owning her own bakery and seeing the joy her talents bring customers takes things to another level.

“When I make something and somebody buys it and enjoys it,” Lisa said, “it just brings me pleasure. It really does.”

Something Lisa does to make the work a bit easier is to try and make a lot more in volume so when the time comes, she always has enough for everyone and never runs short.

Lisa’s Sweet Treats offers a wide array of desserts, from cakes and cookies to eclairs and fruit tarts. Lisa recommends the cream puffs

9
Shore Eats In the Kitchen
Asbury's newest bakery Lisa’s Sweet Treats serves up decadent desserts Downtown

Lisa’s Sweet Treats Top Tip: MISE EN PLACE

In French, “mise en place” means having all of your ingredients at the ready before you start a recipe. This is Lisa’s Sweet Treats owner Lisa Nugent’s top tip for the kitchen: Focus on making sure you have everything you need for whatever you’ve got baking – and always follow a recipe.

and the key lime tarts, but shared that fan favorites include the cheesecake cups, cheese danish and gourmet cupcakes.

The cupcakes feature varied, fun flavors like orange, red velvet and seasonal tastes. The sugar cookie funfetti cupcake even has a sugar cookie baked right in. And on top of the delicious flavors, the cupcakes are also miniature works of art.

“I kind of like to make sure they’re pleasing to the eye and that they are just something that somebody would really want to have and present at a party or birthday or celebration of some sort,” Lisa explained.

Lisa loves custom orders, but these orders

should be placed at least one week ahead of when needed. Of course, for those who don’t place an order ahead, the bakery’s cases are always full of sweet treats for the taking.

Another plus for Lisa’s Sweet Treats – the bakery offers gluten-free desserts. While the treats are made on all clean equipment and do not inherently contain gluten, there is still flour in the air and the desserts are baked in the facility, which naturally has gluten-containing ingredients in shop. This could potentially impact the final product.

When Lisa’s Sweet Treats first opened its doors in the spring, the shop was open six days a week. With summer around the corner, the schedule has changed. Lisa’s Sweet Treats opens at 7am every day, closing at 5pm except for Sundays, when it closes at 1pm.

Lisa’s Sweet Treats is located at 1046 Asbury Ave., Ocean City, and can be reached by calling (609) 938-9114. Learn more at www. lisas-sweet-treats.com, and find the business on Facebook, too.

Text by Emily Liu. Photos provided by Lisa's.

3 Locations on the Ocean City Boardwalk Or try our 4th location in Somers Point 8th and Boardwalk • 9th and Boardwalk • 12th and Boardwalk Free delivery anywhere in Ocean City, call 609-399-2548 $1 OFF WHOLE PIZZA OR MERCHANDISE BY SHOWING THIS AD* AT OUR NEW 9TH STREET LOCATION *NO COPIES ACCEPTED OCGB 2023 go Phils! Come visit us at Citizens Bank Park Visit us online at mancospizza.com or facebook.com/MancosPizza • Follow us on Instagram @mancoandmanco ® ®
Open Everyday Salt Water Taffy and Fudge Largest Selection of Candy in Ocean City On the Ocean City Boardwalk Since www.Shriver 609-399-0100 9th & Boardwalk largest Flavor selection oF salt water taFFy & FUDge in ocean city the only taFFy maDe in ocean city 609.741.9888 - www.sandwichbaroc.com “Don’t let the takeout window and shack-like appearance of Ocean City’s Sandwich Bar fool you...” Craig LaBan - Philadelphia Inquirer Ocean City’s Premier Sandwich Shop Since 2012 Home of Ocean City’s Famous Lobster Roll! READ THE GUIDEBOOK AND OCEAN CITY MAGAZINE ONLINE AT Welcome to Ocean City Guidebook 2023 www.ocnjmagazine.com the Welcome to Ocean City guidebook has been, well, guiding cool folks like you around the island of Ocean City and its surrounding communities. Dive in for the best places to eat, shop, stay, and play in and around America’s Greatest Family Resort. If you’d like to purchase a copy, please visit www.ocnjmagazine.com/shop. Ocean City Welcomet o Look for it in accommodations on and around the island Features on spots you love to visit and ones waiting to be loved. Over 150 pages all about OC and its neighbors.

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. 609545-8942.

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, 3998812.

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.

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!

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

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, 3993439.

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.

Spadafora's Restaurant, Clam Bar, and Seafood Market Famous dockside fresh local flavor. Outside dining. 932 Haven, 398-6703.

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.

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.

12 OCNJMAGAZINE.COM MAY 2023

FEEL BETTER FAST — AND GET BACK TO THE FUN.

CONVENIENT CARE IS JUST AROUND THE CORNER.

3 CONVENIENT LOCATIONS

Marmora

8 Route 9 South

Cape May Court House Acme Plaza

Wildwood 406 W. Rio Grande Ave.

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK FROM 8:30 AM TO 8:00 PM

Extended summer hours. Walk in or Check In Online to reserve a time. Call 609.465.6364 or visit CapeRegionalUrgentCare.com for locations and details.

Left clockwise from top: Sprinkle the yeast in the warmed milk to activate; Whisk in the matcha powder; or steep the teabags for five minutes; Cream the butter and sugar; Add the flour in increments; Beat til well mixed; Fold in the pearl sugar and freeze dried strawberries; Using a cookie scoop, divide the dough into 12 balls, 3 to 4 oz. each; Cook according to your waffle maker's instructions

Below left to right: Belgian pearl sugar; Sprinkle with powdered sugar for a pretty topping. Photos by Amy Mahon.

Strawberry Matcha Liege Waffles

Spring is in the air with these fluffy, sweet treats

INGREDIENTS

3 1/2 cups flour

1 packet active dry yeast

3/4 cup milk, warmed (110 F)

2 tbsp strawberry matcha powder or 2 sachets

strawberry matcha tea

2 sticks butter, softened

1/4 cup light brown sugar

2 eggs

1/2 tsp salt

1 tsp vanilla

8 oz pearl sugar

1/2 cup freeze dried strawberries, chopped

DIRECTIONS

Sprinkle the yeast in the warmed milk to activate. Whisk in the matcha powder or steep the teabags for five minutes. In a large bowl, beat the butter and brown sugar until fluffy. Beat in the eggs, vanilla, and salt. Add in the flour in increments. Cover for 30 minutes until the dough doubles in size. Fold in the pearl sugar and freeze dried strawberries. Using a cookie scoop, divide the dough into 12 balls, about three to

four ounces each. Preheat waffle iron and coat with cooking spray. Cook the waffles according to your waffle maker's instructions. Note: times may vary and the sugar can burn at too high of a temperature. Serve with powdered sugar if desired.

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

15
Girl EATS SUNDAY

WITH LINDA ARCEO

Strawberry Lemonade Beer

We are kicking off summer with a make-your-own shandystyle strawberry lemonade beer. This delicious, seasonal cocktail is perfect for sipping on the porch and appeals to both beer and cocktail lovers. Bonus, it is made by the pitcher which is a convenient way to serve your Memorial Day guests. Cheers!

Serves 4

4 light beers, cold

8 oz Lemonade Vodka

2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced 4 tbsp sugar Lemon slices

Place sliced strawberries in a bowl and toss with sugar. Set aside while you prepare the remaining ingredients.

Add strawberry and lemon slices to the base of a large pitcher. Pour lemonade vodka over strawberry and lemon slices and stir well.

Add the chilled beers to the pitcher. Stir to combine all ingredients.

Serve with a lemon slice and strawberry as a garnish.

Good to Know

If you can’t find lemonade vodka, make your own by combining 4 ounces of vodka with 4 ounces of lemonade. Follow

16 OCNJMAGAZINE.COM MAY 2023
on
and
and online at www.gigglesgobblesandgulps.com
Linda Arceo
Twitter
Instagram @giggobgulp

IYKYK

THE QUIET winter has rebooted the island for another season. As Ocean City gears up for summer, we bring you our annual column of what's in and what's out in the island business community. Some things have changed, but the salt air, gorgeous views, and smell of pizza and fries remains the same.

WHAT’S IN

Beach Buns Bakery has opened in Northfield. They carry sticky buns, breads, scones, cupcakes, and cookies.

A Shore Fit will open at 1215 Asbury Avenue and sell activewear.

Shop Local can be found at 620A Asbury Avenue. They sell a variety of handmade goods from local artists. Find their other store located on Washington Street in Cape May.

White Lotus, Pete Mercantile, and Fabiana Edwards are all moved into their new spaces at the corner of 6th and Asbury Avenue.

Ocean City needed a new bakery, and we’ve got one! Lisa’s Sweet Treats carries donuts, cookies, cupcakes, pies, and more.

Old School Burgers at 34th Street will serve burgers, cheesesteaks, ice cream, fries, and wings. They have another location in Willow Grove, Pa.

Pure Green is opening on 801 East 8th Street. They will have juices, smoothies, and smoothie bowls.

Agape Gourmet will open at 854 Asbury Avenue. They carry a charcuterie section as well as some baked goods and local produce.

Famous Cookie Creamery is expanding to Margate. Their delicious concoctions of Famous 4th Street Cookie and Bassetts

Ice Cream are also available in Ocean City and Wildwood. PJ Buckets is moving into what was formerly the Grilled Cheese and Quesadilla Company on 8th Street. They serve soups, seafood boils, and gourmet seafood. PJ Buckets has another location in Ventnor.

Capo Strada has moved into the former Katina’s on the corner of 9th and Central. They serve pasta, appetizers, pizza, sandwiches, and desserts.

Bennie’s Bread’s location at 338 Ocean Avenue is becoming Soulberri. They serve coffee, smoothies, bowls, and nice cream. Their other location is in Brigantine. Bennie’s still has a location at 1159 Asbury.

Dry Island has moved to 965 Asbury Avenue.

WHAT'S OUT

Again on Asbury, 921 Asbury Avenue, was demolished. Starfish Cafe closed in the fall and the building has been torn down.

Anna Rose Soapery has closed but will maintain an online store.

Pedego Electric Bikes has closed.

MAY EVENTS

The Spring Block Party and merchant table sales in the Downtown and Boardwalk is on May 6.

The Unlocking of the Beach and the Business Persons Plunge is May 26 at noon on the beach at Moorlyn Terrace.

-Megan Antosy

18 OCNJMAGAZINE.COM MAY 2023
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Local Ocean Snapshot

Asbury Avenue

20 OCNJMAGAZINE.COM MAY 2023
This page, clockwise from top: Caden & Ethan Cardone; Grace, Stephanie & Olivia Mills; Laurent Bibbeau, Hannah Richards, Elizabeth Morgan & Eddie Smedley. Opposite page, clockwise from top: Scarlett Fletcher, Kaia Chew & Cove Chew; Jessica & Abbigail Dewese; Molly Kerns & Jane Foster. Photos by Kerri Janto.
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Local Ocean Snapshot

22 OCNJMAGAZINE.COM MAY 2023

Asbury Avenue

23
Opposite page, clockwise from top: Brett Kelly, Hanna Kelly, Madeline Knauss & Annalyse Solitario; Chris Lasky, Dillon Campbell & Paul Persson; Giovanna Barbato & Mckenna Chisholm. This page, clockwise from top: Lisa & Chris DeAngelis; Anna Leap & Sarah Maher; Emily, Lexi, Charlotte & Mike Cerrone. Photos by Kerri Janto.

Local Ocean Snapshot

On the Boards

24 OCNJMAGAZINE.COM MAY 2023
This page, clockwise from top: Brianna Kerber, Simon DeLaurentis, Oliver DeLaurentis & Samantha Kerber; Dianna & Kamryn Venello; Jake & Jim Zambrowski. Opposite page, clockwise from top: Gavin Burgess, McKayla Burgess, Denali Burgess, Savannah Cocchi & Cooper Wanek; Adrianna & Olivia Vogt; Roslyn Sanns, Annabella Yale, Maddox Yale & Carla Yale. Photos by Kerri Janto.
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On the Boards

26 OCNJMAGAZINE.COM MAY 2023
This page, clockwise from top: Andrew & Sam Dawson; Bradley, Francesca, Lucie & Brad Lacey; Dan, Theo & Teighan Menchaca. Opposite page, clockwise from top: Bobby Bucko, Nevaeh Bucko, Ryder Bucko, Sebastian Green, Grayson Kennley & Damian Kennley, and another adorable child; Lena & Charlotte Shultz; AJ, Kristin, Dominic & Anthony Suppa. Photos by Kerri Janto.
Local Ocean Snapshot
27

LET’S GET Crafty

Welcome spring! I’m starting off this sunny season with color the natural way using a rainbow of colors made from food and spices. Nature is incredibly magical and mesmerizing in my eyes. We are so connected to it in so many ways. With the fast-paced world we live in, don’t forget to pause for a moment and take it all in. It’s beautiful when you do.

MATERIALS YOU’LL NEED:

Fabric (natural fibers, such as silk, cotton, and linens)

Food and/or spices to use as dye

Potassium aluminum sulfate

A large pot

28 OCNJMAGAZINE.COM MAY 2023
for more fun
to keep you inspired and busy! Local Ocean
Visit @thelittlebungalow
projects

DYEING FABRIC INSTRUCTIONS:

To start, you want to work with natural fibers. Silk, cotton, and linens are great. Figure out the colors you’d like to get. This is where the fun comes in. Avocados make a really pretty mauve/pink color. Onions make an awesome yellow/green color. Blueberries make purple. Black beans make a beautiful blue. Beets turn fibers pink. Turmeric turns them a vibrant yellow. Spinach/Spirulina create a soft green. Coffee creates a tan. Tea makes a more creamy tan. The list can go on and on. It’s also fun to experiment. Try herbs and spices, different berry mixtures. Even some flowers can give you amazing colors. Just have fun with it.

Next, make a pre dye bath for your fabrics. This will help keep the colors strong. To do this you need to use alum (potassium aluminum sulfate - it can be found on Amazon). Add a tablespoon of alum to a pot of water and bring to a boil. Pre soak your fabric and then place in simmered alum bath for an hour. Note: this step isn’t necessary, but it does help hold color. After your fabrics are pretreated, you can now start your color dye bath. Please follow the instructions on the right accordingly.

COLOR OPTIONS:

1 2 3 7 8

AVOCADO Keep your avocado skins and pits and make sure they are cleaned. You can freeze them as you save them, so they don’t get moldy if you’re not ready to use them yet. Once you’re ready to dye your fabric fill a pot with water and add the avocado skins and pits. Bring the water to a simmer (it’s important not to have it boil. It will turn your beautiful mauve pink into brown if it boils.) Let the avocado mix simmer for an hour. The longer it simmers, the more color it gives off. After an hour, remove it from the heat and add your fabric, making sure it’s completely covered. Let sit. The longer it soaks the darker the hues will become. When you are pleased with your color, rinse under cold water and hang dry.

BLACK BEANS In a large pot, add water and black beans. Bring to a boil and then simmer for 30-40 minutes. Remove from heat and add your pre-soaked fabric to the dye bath. The longer it sits the darker your blue color becomes. Rinse in cold water and hang dry.

TURMERIC In a large pot, add water and two to three tablespoons of turmeric. Bring to boil and let simmer for 30 minutes. Add your fabric, let soak. Rinse under cold water. Hang dry.

4 5 6

BEETS In a large pot, add water and skinned beets. Bring to boil and let simmer for 40-60 minutes. Remove from heat. Add fabric and let soak until desired color occurs. Run under cold water. Rinse and hang dry.

SPINACH/SPIRULINA In a pot on low heat, bring a cup of water and a cup of spinach to a simmer. This will release its green color. Add your presoaked fabric and a tablespoon or more of spirulina plus more water to cover fabric. Simmer for an hour to an hour and a half, stirring often. Remove from heat and let sit overnight. Rinse in cold water and hang dry.

COFFEE This might be the easiest especially if you’re a coffee drinker and have some left in your pot! Either use what’s left or brew a stronger pot (a few pots if you are dyeing a lot of fabric). Once brewed pour coffee into a stainless-steel pot and add pre-soaked fabric. Let it soak until the desired color is achieved.

TEA Follow the same process for coffee. Fill a pot with water and add in tea bags. Let simmer for an hour and add your pre-soaked fabrics. Rinse and hang dry.

BLUEBERRIES In a large pot, add water and one to two cups of fresh or frozen blueberries. Bring to a boil then turn down to a simmer. Add your presoaked fabric and continue to simmer for one hour, stirring often. Remove from heat and let sit overnight. Rinse in cold water and hang dry.

29

1973

Ocean City Vacation Guide

READING the 92-page Ocean City 1973 Vacation Guide is like opening a time capsule and seeing what life was like in America’s Greatest Family Resort a half century ago. While some things have changed, many things have not.

The guide was published by Bolling Publishers under the auspices of the Ocean City Hotel, Motel and Restaurant Association. It was distributed by the Department of Public Relations to prospective visitors interested in learning more about Ocean City and its accommodations, attractions and facilities.

A welcoming letter signed by Mayor B. Thomas Waldman, Commissioner Marilyn K. Moore, and Commissioner Luther L. Wallace III was on the first page of the guide. It was printed under the headline. “Our Family Resort Tradition Began in 1879.”

The Flanders Hotel was featured in the two page centerfold. The following was written under the banner VACATION FACILITIES: “Complete resort facilities for the entire family; tennis, shuffleboard, miniature golf, supervised Day Camp, and private beach area with cabanas. Come to The Flanders to RELAX and enjoy your vacation. Surf and deep-sea fishing available, also horseback riding. Many fine Championship Golf Courses in the vicinity. Beautiful beaches for bathing and surfing; private salt water pool. Free movies, Teen Club,

30 OCNJMAGAZINE.COM MAY 2023
Local Ocean It’s History

Bridge parties and dancing. Monty at the piano, in the Ocean Room, during the Social interlude before dinner. Dinner music by the well-known Flanders Trio.”

Large ads were taken by: Port-O-Call, Bellevue, Alvyn, Biscayne, Harbor House, Jernee Manor, Oceanic, Ocean 17, Pavilion Motor Lodge, Sandaway, Scarborough, Vernon Hall, Tradewinds, Seaspray Motel, Royal Crest Motel, Capri Motel, Impala Motel, Forum Motor Inn, and Seano Motel.

Eating establishments advertising in the guide included: Simms’, Hickman’s, Watson’s, Campbell’s Seafood Kitchen, Shafto’s, and Sindia.

There were articles about attractions: Ocean City Tabernacle, Cultural Arts Center, Boardwalk Art Show, Bicycling, Boating, Recreation, Ocean City Historical Museum, Shuffleboard Club, Fishing, Concerts on the Music Pier, Baby Parade, Night in Venice Parade, Tennis Courts, and the Golf Course.

The Ocean City Historical Museum, 1735 Simpson Avenue, has a plethora of vacation guidebooks to view.

31

MEET THE MAKER ///

32 OCNJMAGAZINE.COM MAY 2023 Local Ocean
JCAPLAN
ART
Text by Kevin Callahan. Photography by Randee and Jordan Caplan.
Jordan Caplan
Above: Artist Jordan Caplan and her artwork. Visit www.jcaplanart.com for more information.

Her JCaplan Art paint-by-number shore scenes are immensely connective because they are like a mirror looking back at youth for so many.

“I think the sets are so popular because everyone, locals and visitors alike, has such a strong connection to the local places that I highlight in my paint by number kits,” Jordan said. “The 9th Street Bridge going into Ocean City often signifies the start of a fun-filled family vacation. Lucy the Elephant is a well-known landmark and Margate staple to many. Kohr Bros ice cream is an integral part of any vacation, and Congress Hall in Cape May is a hot spot destination during the summer and holiday season.”

Jordan grew up in Pottstown, Pennsylvania, and vacationed in Ocean City her whole life and was “a proud shoobie for many years before I became a resident.”

Each summer, her extended and immediate family rented a house for what she called the best week of the year. Naturally, these vacations are now cherished memories in her favorite place.

“These designs of familiar places get people excited to paint and to display them in their homes,” Jordan said. “I also believe the kits are so popular because they’re a hands-on activity that kids and adults can both enjoy. I’ve had people buy these kits for all different purposes, such as an activity at a kids birthday party, paint and sip nights, a rainy day activity while on vacation, an enriching activity for an elderly parent with dementia, a birthday present, and so much more.”

The idea for these DIY paint sets spawned from another project early during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“I started creating Ocean City-themed face masks in the summer of 2020 with my artwork on them, and they became a huge hit,” Jordan said. “I have a very illustrative style, and I had many people asking me to create a coloring book or coloring pages based on my designs. I looked into the process, but I was pretty overwhelmed and did not have the funds to embark on that endeavor yet.

“The idea of paint by number kits popped into my head randomly one day since those were my favorite crafts as a kid. I explored different canvas papers and sought out craft paint with a variety of colors. Through a lot of experimentation, I found what worked and debuted the product at the 2022 Ocean City Spring Block Party. They were immediately a huge hit and continued to grow in popularity throughout the summer at the OC Farmers Market.

“They ultimately were much easier to produce than a

coloring book since I do most everything myself.”

Jordan attended Stockton University and earned undergraduate degrees in psychology and education. She moved to Ocean City during her senior year of college and earned a post-baccalaureate degree in art education and taught elementary art outside of Cape May.

She now resides in Linwood and teaches art at Atlantic City High School.

Though Jordan paints from various views along the South Jersey shore, she is still pulled mostly by Ocean City to put memories into colors.

“I have really enjoyed expanding my horizons with other shore towns, such as Margate, Cape May, Wildwood and Sea Isle,” Jordan said. “However, my favorite places reside in Ocean City. Playland’s Castaway Cove and Gillian’s Wonderland Pier are among my favorite paintings I have ever made – most likely due to the connection and wonderful memories I have as a kid at both places. Painting the rides is fun because there is so much detail and working with vibrant colors is my forte.”

Jordan takes painting commissions, too.

“As of now, a lot of my commissions have been Ocean City themed since that’s the primary subject of my watercolor/gouache paintings,” Jordan said. “I’ve painted family beach houses, beach chairs tied to specific memories, collages of a variety of favorite places, and more.”

Not surprisingly with her deep connection to the shore, she painted one commission that she wanted to keep.

“In the summer of 2021, I painted a six-foot wooden surfboard for a customer, and that has been my favorite piece to date,” Jordan said. “He wanted it to capture his years spent in Ocean City, past and present. It was a collage of Ocean City landmarks, such as the Strand, Castaway Cove, Johnson’s Popcorn, Surf Mall, the Music Pier, and many others. We both loved how it turned out.”

Jordan has many popular paint-by-number sets.

“The Ocean City Fishing Pier, Lucy the Elephant, and the Wildwoods Sign are the most popular 8.5” by 11” designs at the moment,” Jordan said. “However, the smaller designs (5” by 7”) always sell out the fastest at the farmers markets and events. The Kohr Bros ice cream cone, Sunny the Seagull, and the OC lifeguard stands are extremely popular among the smaller designs.”

Of course, Jordan has her personal favorite set, too.

“My favorite paint-by-number set is the OC Bay 9th Street Bridge design,” Jordan said. “That drive has always signified happiness and relaxation to me, and it still does now even with being a local.

“I also have a lot more designs that will soon be unveiled for the summertime, and there might be a new favorite among them.”

33
Jordan Caplan was once a kid vacationing in Ocean City. Now, she’s bringing those magical memories to canvas and people can’t get enough.

FOR 16 YEARS, the Welcome to Ocean City guidebook has been, well, guiding cool folks like you around the island of Ocean City and its surrounding communities. Dive in for the best places to eat, shop, stay, and play in and around America’s Greatest Family Resort. If you’d like to purchase a copy, please visit www.ocnjmagazine.com/shop.

Order your copy of the hardback coffee table book all about where to EAT, SHOP, STAY and PLAY in Ocean City Welcome to Ocean City Guidebook 2023-2024 Look for it in accommodations around the island

Ocean City

Filled with features on spots you love to visit and ones waiting to be found. Over 150 pages all about OC and its neighbors.

o
Welcomet

WHETHER YOU’RE CELEBRATING MOM, A GRAD, A

garden party

OR ANYTHING, CHECK OUT OUR LIST OF MAY MUST HAVES

36 OCNJMAGAZINE.COM MAY 2023
6. Fruit Looped The Outta Control bowl... whoever named this just gets it. 5. Hit the Bottle Tried Wendy's oil and vinegar combos? Peach and basil is the dressing cocktail for spring. 4. Spring Fling Can one mom ever have enough tea towels? The answer is no. Get the towel. 3. Need for Speed I got no time for opening the olive oil bottle when I'm cooking. 7. Garden Art I was just thinking how much my garden needs a mermaid. Seems like she's thinking that too. Capella's Oils and Vinegars, 1123 Asbury 2. Pinkies Up We should drink out of fancy cups more often. I said that. 1. Tea for Two Owner Dawn let me sample these teas. Both Dawn and the tea are fab. Stop in to see both. Enchanted Tea Room, 68 Tuckahoe Road
1 4 3 5 6 7 2
Bungalow Bowls, 1054 Asbury Hoy's, 34th & West BIRTHDAY DAD,

MAY MUST HAVES

37
3. Game On Bocce makes me very excited and very sleepy all at the same time. Hoy's, 34th & West 4. Clear Path Fun kid activity alert! And it glows (bonus points!) 1. Buzz Off Putting lotion in a bar is pure genius. Just don't get deodorant confused.
Shop Local, 620A Asbury 3 4
2. Berry Good Definitely not supposed to eat this soap. But it contains mango butter. But no eating it. 1 2

4.

This lovely (and locally made) bird house will help bring all the birds to the yard.

5. Creature Comfort Could I bee any more impressed by these local artisan jewelry pieces?

Feathered Nest, 3002 Route 9, Seaville

EVENTS ON ASBURY

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, New Jersey.

FUNTASTIC TUESDAYS

Every Tuesday in July (beginning July 11) & August Free Entertainment Downtown, 6th-11th on Asbury Ave, 10 am-1 pm

WEDNESDAYS

FARMERS MARKET

Every Wednesday from June 14 to September 13, 8 am-1 pm Tabernacle, 6th & Asbury Ave. New Jersey fresh produce & local crafters

THURSDAYS

MARKET DAYS

Every Thursday in July & August • Free entertainment Downtown, 6th-11th on Asbury Ave, 10 am-1 pm.

DOWNLOAD THE NEW OCEAN CITY VACATION MOBILE APP

38 OCNJMAGAZINE.COM MAY 2023
oceancityvacation.com 1.800.BeachNJ • Facebook/DowntownOCNJ UNIQUE BOUTIQUES EXCEPTIONAL EATERIES DISTINCTIVE CRAFTS LUXURIOUS SPAS AND SALONS AND MORE ASBURY AVE. 6-14TH • OVER 100 SHOPS &
MAY MUST HAVES
CAFÉS
3. Snailed It A teeny tea cup snail to hold your tea bag... How did we live without this? 1. Frock and Roll A frock worthy of a Gatsby party. Fly Home 2. Clutch A chic purse = a chic you. Colette, 900 Asbury Enchanted Tea Room, 68 Tuckahoe Road
1 2 3 4 5

Shopping OC

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. 1123 Asbury, 609568-6659.

Downtown Ocean City 100+ distinctive shops, cafes, galleries, spas, and salons, Downtown Ocean City 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. 714 Asbury, 609-938-9173, www.saltyseahorse.com.

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, 609-226-4880.

Shop Local Featuring over 20 local

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!

artists. Candles, keychains, jewelry, wall art, and more. 620A Asbury.

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

Payton Jewelry Handmade jewelry, apothecary line, handpicked accessories. 952 Boardwalk, 938-1276.

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

Scrim Discovery Varied and abundant supply of hand-painted needlepoint canvases by more than 60 artists. The 1,900 square foot store houses a top notch inventory and many needlework accessories. Creative finishing services. 924 Haven, 398-6659.

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, 3990150, 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, 478-3266.

Coastal Designer Outlet Carries major quality brands. Owner Dan Powell has vast design experience and industry knowledge. The showroom is 5,600 square feet. Custom ordering. 556 Sea Isle Boulevard, Ocean View, 624-1544.

DTM Power Sports Street legals, motorcycles, side by sides, ATVs, Jetskis. Two locations. Newfield, NJ and 551 Roosevelt (All Seasons Marina), Marmora.856-712-0099, www.dtmpowersports.com.

40 OCNJMAGAZINE.COM MAY 2023
Store Guide
41 A R T RT O RTO N RTON A S B SB U SBU R SBUR Y SBURY A GALLERY of local Artists featuring fine ar t in all mediums Monthly Exhibits 711 Asbury Ave. Ocean City, NJ 609-814-0308 www.oceancityfineartsleague.org Open Daily Family Beach Sessions | Sunrise or Sunset | Your Favorite Location Mention this Ad & Save 10% Off the Session Fee 609-493-7100 www.memoriesbymariaphotography.com

TIMELESS STYLE

Bright colors and low, modular furniture are trending, but OC leans toward a timeless interior design with a classic shore color palate.

TRENDS

DESIGNS THAT DAZZLE

Interior design trends favor a lived in look with durable materials

EVER since the pandemic’s onset, shore homes have taken on a whole new significance. At a time when travel was limited and the world came to a screeching, unnerving halt, the familiarity of a seaside escape and the opportunity to get away offered families much-needed vacations while providing all the comforts of home.

The worst of COVID seems to be a thing of the past, but that increased affection for and appreciation of those shore houses that became sanctuaries and even full-time residences remains.

It’s a shift reflected in the way homeowners have approached their decor, too, illustrating that they’re bringing the utility of their primary residences to their seasonal escapes.

“Before, I feel like no one wanted a desk or an office setup at the beach,” Jill Bonawitz of Meant to Bee Home, a home stager and interior designer based in Haddonfield, said. “Now, people want office spaces in their shore homes, they’re putting writing desks in bedrooms. People have more flexibility now to work from home, so people are spending more time down the shore and extending their stays by working remotely during the week so they can be right there to enjoy the weekend as soon as it starts.”

As Samantha Cury, owner of Interiors by Joann in Ocean City, sees it, it’s a trend that has surprisingly heartwarming roots.

“I realized that the people who are making sure they have a work space are mostly the clients who have 20- or 30-year-old children to encourage those kids and their grandkids to come

and stay longer,” she explains. “Since their children are working from home, they’re saying, ‘We put a desk in a private room for you so you can come visit and still work from home.’”

Maximizing the enjoyment of their seaside spaces does mean the minimal maintenance and cleanup befitting a vacation home, and Jill has noticed that durability is in-demand now more than ever, with woven, texturized fabrics such as rattan being incorporated into today’s coastal design, the sturdiness of recycled lumbers such as polywood making for a popular outdoor furniture choice, and many homeowners realizing the importance of utilizing flooring that remains stylish while taking a beating.

“A big trend we’re seeing is luxury flooring,” she said. “Instead of doing wood floors — because at the beach, you have to think about sand and salt and water pooling — people are finding out that vinyl flooring is so durable and really looks like that beautiful hardwood, but you don’t have to worry about it.” Samantha added that opting for long-lasting materials extends to the fabrics people choose for their homes, and is actually less of a trend and more of a “must-have that’s here to stay.”

“I can’t even remember the last time I sold a sofa that wasn’t a performance fabric,” she commented, referring to upholstery that is easy to clean, stain-resistant and holds up to how lived-in shore furnishings are supposed to be. “For the most part, people don’t want to worry about their shore home’s furniture like they would about their formal sitting rooms at home. They don’t want to bug their kids about taking their shoes off or not eating

42 OCNJMAGAZINE.COM MAY 2023
Shopping OC

on the sofa: This is where you come to relax. People don’t want their children to form Ocean City memories like ‘I could never go to grandma’s house at the shore and sit on the sofa.’”

She also notes that the ‘70s are back, but with a caveat: “Bright colors, low, modular furniture: If you were to picture The Brady Bunch living room, that is what’s coming around — but I don’t really see that hitting Ocean City because it’s not a timeless look. And most of my clients in Ocean City want a timeless interior design. They don’t want to spend time redoing their house and chasing today’s trends. They want a shore home they can come to with their families and relax.”

The area might not be fully embracing retro decor, but it has welcomed thoroughly modern conveniences such as lovingly curated Pinterest inspiration boards and the ubiquitous connectivity of Zoom, as Jill notes the latter is often the best way to stay in touch with the “busy professionals” comprising her clientele, especially when they’re not living seaside full time. Samantha, too, finds that digital communications are a great way to get quick answers and resolutions, although some textures can only be fully appreciated by interacting with them, and phone screens rarely capture the true depth and interplay of colors and materials.

In terms of color, though, Jill notes that the classic shore palate is still going strong.

“The colors haven’t really changed: People still love the blues. The light and airy watery colors are sort of a mainstay,” she said.

“We are seeing a lot more neutral colors,” Samantha added. “But everyone loves blue. A navy is as neutral at the shore as a white is.”

Whether they’re just refreshing a color theme with carefully made

choices or undertaking a design overhaul, watching clients fall instantly in love with the visions that a talented decor profession made a reality is, by far, the best part of the job every time. After all, no matter how homeowners are deciding to embrace today’s trends, the professionals with whom they entrust their shore homes always have the same goal: delivering results that dazzle.

“The best thing I can hear is that I delivered something that’s better than what they were expecting,” Jill said. “Seeing something come to life that you’ve only seen in pictures and on design boards can just really blow people away, which is just the best feeling ever.”

43

Shoemaker Lumber is located at 1200 West Avenue, Ocean City, and can be reached by calling 609-3990150 or visiting shoemakerlumber.com.

SHOEMAKER LUMBER shop talk

SHOEMAKER LUMBER HAS BUILT ‘A CENTURY OF TRUST’

IN THE OCEAN CITY COMMUNITY

THE popular Shoemaker Lumber T-shirts have a long tradition –spanning over 50 years – of being worn and seen on the Ocean City Boardwalk.

Over this past winter though, their popularity reached new heights when Shoemaker did a limited run on T-shirts supporting the Eagles.

“One customer posted on our Facebook page pictures of them jumping out of a plane in Florida wearing the Shoemaker T-shirt,” co-owner Lynne Tarves said. “Seeing our T-shirts worn beyond the job site, knowing that our customers are proud to represent our brand in their lives is such an awesome feeling.”

Even though ownership has passed hands along the way, Shoemaker Lumber has been serving homeowners and contractors in Ocean City and beyond for more than a century (they first began delivering lumber in a horse-drawn cart). A sprawling lumber yard and a showroom for kitchens, bathrooms, doors and windows as well as a full-line hardware store makes Shoemaker a one-stop home remodel destination. Plus their shelves are stocked with a myriad of materials for professional construction and DIY projects.

Lynne and Janet Young have been partners at Shoemaker Lumber since 2021. Lynne became an owner when her husband of 45 years, James, a partner

of Shoemaker, passed away in 2016. James served Shoemaker as president from 1972 to 1979, then left to become an independent contractor and customer. He returned to Shoemaker in 1993 and served as a principal and vice president until illness caused his retirement in 2015.

Janet has been an owner since 1973 and involved in the company operations since 1983. Her husband of 50 years, Dick, partner of Shoemaker, started at Shoemaker in 1970, and served as president from 1979 until illness caused his retirement in 2018. Dick passed away in 2020.

These family bonds are why Lynne and Janet decided not to sell Shoemaker Lumber but instead develop plans for a new store and improved site development. The pair are not only honoring and preserving the hard work and vision of original owners Fred Tarves, Don Tarves, Albert Neill Jr., Dick Young, Jim Tarves and Dan Neill, but also continue to be a building supplier in town and service the tradesmen and the community of Ocean City. There is a definite sense of nostalgia for Shoemaker in the community.

“We benefit today from a century of trust built in by our predecessors,” Janet said. “We were supplying some very important keystone builders of the ’50s, ’60s and ’70s. Now their children and grandchildren are our customers.”

Shopping OC
x
Top: A shot of Shoemaker Lumber in the 1980s. Above: A historic shot of Shoemaker Lumber Company, which has been supporting builders in Ocean City for more than a century.

Shoemaker Lumber Company began in 1964 when Fred, Don, and Albert Neill Jr. purchased the company from Charles and Homer Shoemaker.

Prior to 1964, the business was called C.H. Shoemaker Company. Charles and Homer Shoemaker bought it in 1902 when it was called Stites Lumber.

“We understood Charles and Homer were dairy farmers in Bridgeton,” Lynne said, “so, 1200 West has been the site of building supplies for three separate centuries, dating even earlier than 1902.”

Shoemaker has provided much of the Boardwalk repairs in Ocean City, which current Shoemaker president Jim Argerakis, an avid runner, appreciates during his early morning runs on the Boardwalk.

Not surprisingly, to thrive this long in a competitive business field, especially with the growth of the big box stores, Shoemaker Lumber’s service touch is critical.

“We were open the day after 2012’s Hurricane Sandy,” Lynne said. “We were faced with mud in the store, no power, handwriting tickets, and desperate customers needing help.

“Storms will continue to come, and our new, elevated store will help us do better in those challenging times.

“This day and age where self-check-outs are the norm and you can’t find an employee on the sales floor [in other shops], Shoemaker has teams of experts front and center ready to help our customers. Whether it’s finding the right trash can for your town or getting a take-off of a new housebuild, we have someone ready at any second to assist our customers,” Lynne said.

“And we have Harry who has been with us since 1978!” she exclaimed. “Many customers walk in shouting for Harry. Whether it is picking out the right screw, special ordering a lock, getting a tool repaired, finding any random hardware item, and above all, being treated well, Harry is looked to by many customers on a daily basis.”

Their longest serving employee was original owner Albert Neill Jr., who worked from 1964 until retiring in 2018.

But there have been other employees who worked for Shoemaker for decades. Bookkeeper Pat Cann, who retired three years ago, was with Shoemaker for 35 years, and for years she baked something for everyone’s birthday and even today she surprises them and brings in baked goods.

Current long-term employees include Harry Lord (45 years), Patty Ablet (35 years), Joe Evans (15 years), John (Jet) Etling and Ian Wallace (11 years).

And there have been some longtime four-legged members of Shoemaker, too, including a stray cat named Slick and, for 10 years, Lynne’s own dog. “Teddy came to work with me as a puppy, and first spent part time crated under my desk,” she remembered.

Of course, in addition to the long-time employees with knowledgeable and friendly service, which keeps bringing customers back, the T-shirts don’t hurt either.

“Customers come in and talk about them weeks in advance each year now,” Lynne said. “We have had fun with the T-shirts.”

45 Send Your Pics to Ocean City magazine for a chance to have them featured in print or on social media editor@ocnjmagazine.com C l u b s , h a n d c a r t s & r i d i n g c a r t s a v a i l a b l e f o r r e n t i n t h e P r o S h o p C o m e i n a n d c h e c k o u t o u r n e w s e l e c t i o n o f a p p a r e l a n d g e a r ! 2 6 t h & B a y A v e n u e , O c e a n C i t y 6 0 9 - 3 9 9 - 1 3 1 5 Ocean City Municipal Golf Course S E A S O N & 1 0 P L A Y M E M B E R S H I P S A V A I L A B L E ! 1 2 h o l e P a r 3 c o u r s e A p r i l & O c t o b e r 8 A M - 6 P M M a y - S e p t e m b e r 7 A M - 7 P M
Text by Kevin Callahan. Photos provided by Shoemaker Lumber Company.

A NEIGHBORLY LOVE OF READING

Across the island, nine Little Free Libraries promote a friendly neighborhood lifestyle

Millions of people are familiar with a certain iconic TV show’s charming opening theme song that plays as a camera pans over a delightful toy neighborhood. A trolley car passes through the streets of the town as three words pan across the screen in a trademark font.

46 OCNJMAGAZINE.COM MAY 2023

That’s right. It’s Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood, and as the jazzy piano riff starts up, viewers are transported into a living room where the titular character walks through the front door with a big smile on his face singing out the words generations of people know by heart; It's a beautiful day in the neighborhood...

As Mr. Rogers continues singing, he hangs up his coat, puts on a trademark colorful cardigan, sits down and changes out of his loafers into tennis shoes before teaching his millions of viewers a valuable life lesson in a tidy 28-minute episode.

Of the thousands of lessons Rogers taught viewers over the years – from dealing with your feelings in a healthy way to knowing you can make a positive impact in your community – one can argue the most valuable of them all is the lesson of being neighborly, that we are all neighbors and we should treat each other with love and respect. There’s no question being a good neighbor creates a strong neighborhood. Take Ocean City for example. Part of what makes the island “America’s Greatest Family Resort” is the fact that there is a strong neighborhood and community vibe despite a population that greatly fluctuates throughout the year.

The neighbors might change, but the neighborhood stays

the same. And one of the many ways Ocean City residents heed Rogers’ advice and ensure visitors feel at home while they’re in town is with Little Free Libraries.

Libraries for everyone

According to the Little Free Library’s national registry, there are nine of these little book nooks across the island. But what is a Little Free Library? It’s exactly what the name implies: a small receptacle that offers a variety of reading material at no cost to whomever wants to read it. They come in all shapes and sizes with specifications per the nonprofit’s website. The library’s operators –or stewards – can make their design from scratch or download plans from the website.

The Little Free Library program is based on three pillars:

1) Building community.

2) Inspiring readers.

3) Expanding book access for all.

“A Little Free Library is a signpost of friendliness, neighborliness and inviting people to connect with the people in their community,” Margret Aldrich, Little Free Library director of communications, said.

“We noticed it during the pandemic,” Margret continued. “When schools were closed and libraries were

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“What it all boils down to is the neighborhood coming together to help those in need – whether with a book, a can of food or a bone-shaped treat. These types of things are undoubtedly what Mr. Rogers had in mind as neighborly actions.

closed, Little Free Libraries stayed open 24/7/365. They could be a little beacon of hope in what was really a changing time. It let everyone know we are all in this together even when we had to be apart.”

Ocean City resident Maureen Kenny, who is steward to the island’s first registered Little Free Library, echoed this sentiment.

“I’d like to think it’s an invitation from me as the homeowner to stop and say hi. In Ocean City in particular, porch living is part of the culture,” Maureen explained. “Sitting on the porch and having people stop by and say hi while perusing what’s in there, it really promotes the neighborhood aspect.”

Margaret’s library is located on the 300 block of Wesley Avenue and, in addition to the locals, she gets plenty of traffic from visitors heading to the beach for the day.

“Someone walks by and sees the kids or dogs on the porch – some in the neighborhood know the dogs and library better than they know me,” Maureen said with a laugh. “There’s a woman who drops off bags of books at a time. They’re current books, too.”

While the onus is on the steward to stock their libraries, the nonprofit’s “Take a book. Share a book.” motto comes into play often, as it seems there is always a healthy backlog of books from those donating boxes or bags in addition to patrons leaving a book every time they take another.

“Sometimes I’ll check my library in the morning and see a new book was donated and it will be gone that afternoon,” Pam Levin, the steward of the library on the 400 block of East Newcastle Road, said. “Then I’ll see it back again two days later.”

Books, books and more books

Between Pam and Maureen, the two estimate that 85 to 90 percent of the books inside their libraries are donated, and that each library holds between 40 and 50 books. The most

common books are fiction, although both stewards try to curate their selection to appeal to a wide audience, from seniors to children and everyone in between.

“Someone left a dog bowl and treats,” Pam added, noting she keeps it filled so four-legged friends can take advantage of the library, too.

Donations aren’t always books or dog treats. Both Pam and Maureen said they received canned food and pantry donations as well, especially during the early days of the pandemic.

“During COVID, the library turned into a food pantry. People would drop off soup, beans, pasta and rice,” Maureen explained.

Read with a neighbor

Ocean City is known worldwide as a place that accepts visitors for days, weeks, or months at a time and for good reason – the residents and guests alike treat each other with love and respect in ways big and small.

What it all boils down to is the neighborhood coming together to help those in need – whether with a book, a can of food or a bone-shaped treat. These types of things are undoubtedly what Mr. Rogers had in mind as neighborly actions.

After all, for a Little Free Library on the way to the beach, stocked full of fantasies and mysteries, biographies and thrillers, one might imagine it calls to passersby:

“Won’t you be my neighbor?”

Want to start your own Little Free Library? Learn more at littlefreelibraries.org.

If a big library is more your speed, check out the Ocean City Free Public Library at 1735 Simpson Avenue.

Looking for a Little Free Library in Ocean City? They’re all over the island! From north to south, here’s the full list. Find an interactive map at littlefreelibrary.org.

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4 East Newcastle Road 800 Bridge Blvd. 146 Pinnacle Road 120 West Ave. 317 Wesley Ave. 413 Fifth St. 1312 Boardwalk 1430 Prospect Ave. 3205 Bayland Drive

Back to nature

Group developing power plant site in Upper Township has plans for luxury hotel, boardwalk with shops, and acres upon acres of natural beauty,

Text by Kristen Dowd. Photos by Stef Godfrey.

It’s not too often power plants are associated with relaxation, comfort and outdoor exploration.

Of course, the site of the B.L. England Generating Station – formerly a smattering of twinkling lights and plumes of smoke tucked along the Great Egg Harbor River in Upper Township for nearly 60 years – is going to offer these things in spades once the Beesleys Point Development Group brings its vision to life.

“Our entire existence over the past 25 years has been getting sites like these,” Chris Wilson, the site’s LLC managing member, said. “We can’t reveal everything yet, but we’ve been working with the township since long before we closed in regard to the vision.”

Ownership and demolition

After a three-year long, arduous process that included multiple sale agreements that didn’t come to fruition, the Beesleys Point Development Group and parent firm ERSI Group closed on the B.L. England site in February 2022.

“We were so thrilled to take ownership,” Chris remarked. “Three years is a long time. It wears you down.”

ERSI Group specializes in redeveloping “heavy industrial distressed sites,” according to its website.

In September 2022, the B.L. England

cooling tower was imploded. Safety during the demolition is paramount, according to Chris, even if it means using more expensive contractors.

“We have a terrific safety record. It’s one of the things we’re most proud of, all the way back to the late ’90s,” Chris explained.

The group is ahead of schedule regarding the rest of the demolition. Soon the smoke stack will come down, and everything else will follow, with demolition slated to be finished by the end of this year.

“We’re about 13 months ahead of

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schedule now. We’ve spent millions and millions of dollars just getting everything ready,” Chris said. “We pride ourselves on working closely with all regulatory agencies.” For this project, that includes local organizations, such as the Upper Township Fire Department and New Jersey State Police, as well as the state Department of Environmental Protection.

“They’ve been wonderful,” Chris said. “Once you establish a good thing with the agencies that are on top of things, they come to know you can count on each other.

“It’s a good working relationship.”

The new vision

The Beesleys Point Redevelopment Group plans for the B.L. England site include a “beautiful hotel, meandering boardwalk and a top-of-the-line marina,” according to Chris, with retail along a Main Streetstyle design. He doesn’t see the space as a competitor for Ocean City – it’s much the opposite.

“This development is to coincide with the magnificence of Ocean City,” Chris said. Another big piece of the development is to

embrace the environment.

“We want to take advantage of the unprecedented natural community that Cape May County consists of,” Chris said. In March, there was a controlled burn at the site to remove phragmites, a reed grass that is invasive to the area and aggressively chokes out native plants and disrupts the ecological health of the area

“We had great involvement in both the company that managed the burn and the township’s oversight of it. It was fantastic. It went perfectly,” Chris said.

This is phase one of a multiphase process to rehabilitate the area from the phragmites and related damage. The Beesleys Point Development Group is working with the Great Egg Harbor Watershed Association on this part of the project.

“They want to be involved, and that’s priceless,” Chris said.

“We’re reestablishing a very significant section of marine forest,” he continued. “It was eroded away because of the phragmites. We’re bringing it back – dozens of acres. Native species. The things that are supposed to be there.”

52 OCNJMAGAZINE.COM MAY 2023
This development is to coincide with the magnificence of Ocean City,
- Chris Wilson

As far as why the group is going the extra mile – or acre – to restore the natural habitat around the site, Chris said it’s their duty.

“It’s just totally irresponsible not to,” he said. “Our goal has always been to restore the green space to as natural a state as possible. We specialize in sites spending a good portion of time ruining the earth, so we want to get it back.

“We see this space as essential in our overall development,” Chris continued. “Protection of the environment and the wildlife, that is key. That’s something the community can enjoy for generations.”

A spot for everyone

Another big focus on developing the former power plant site is to ensure it is a spot for everyone. Much like rehabilitating the natural environment benefits the entire community, there will be public access to the waterfront area. Those who want to kayak or canoe in the Great Egg Harbor Bay or look skyward for migratory bird watching – a top activity in Cape May County – will be able to do so.

“We’re going to be giving back. There are going to be shore areas that everyone can enjoy. That’s been a big push from the township, and we’re working hand-in-hand with them along the way,” Chris said.

“We want people to say this was a great thing that happened,” he continued. “This is going to be something that the community loves.”

Above left to right: Some OC waterfront homes will have views of the new development. Beesley's Point Park is a nearby landmark. Get updates and learn more about the development project at www.beesleyspointdevelopment.com.

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building community the art of

Local musician, radio host and educator Mary Roth uses passions to bring people together

To learn more and see upcoming performances, visit @ArtistsWithaPurpose on Facebook. For more information on the radio show, check out www.capemayradio.org.

WHEN local radio host Mary Roth interviewed musical legend Graham Nash ahead of his concert at the Ocean City Music Pier last August, it wasn’t surprising that the two musicians struck a chord with one another.

Of course, one of the ways the pair found common ground was a bit surprising – at least it was for Mary.

As the two chatted, Mary brought up iconic Crosby, Stills & Nash album covers she remembered putting away while working at a record shop as a teenager. Graham, it turned out, had similar memories.

“He said, ‘I worked at a record shop, too. I put away Elvis. What else did you put away?’” Mary remarked with a smile in her voice. “You just never know what’s going to come out of an interview.”

The kismet moment jogged another memory for Mary, about her 2016 song “December Records,” partly inspired by her days working in the record shop in 1980 and written around the time she was interviewing a curator for a John Lennon art exhibit.

“It’s about youth and growing up and the record shop is a backdrop,” Mary explained. “You know how some songs can have more than one dimension to them?”

Multidimensional isn’t only an apt way to describe music, but also a rather perfect way to describe Mary herself. Since her days as a toddler singing her way down the Atlantic City Boardwalk from her stroller, music has continued to be a driving force in Mary’s life. She’s a singer/songwriter/vocalist, and she finds her rhythm on the Celtic bodhrán drum and strums the strings on guitar, bouzouki and the Appalachian mountain dulcimer.

She has taught music classes for both children and adults at Montgomery County Community College in Pennsylvania and Atlantic Cape Community College, and she takes her talents to the airwaves, too, when she hosts her “Artists with a Purpose” radio show on WCFA-LP 101.5 FM in Cape May. Mary’s motto for her show – and, really, for so many of

her pursuits – is “community building far and wide through the arts.”

“It’s a great message, especially in these times,” Mary said. “Artists with a Purpose” doesn’t only feature musicians. The program has also showcased poets and directors to actors and environmentalists – and everyone in between. In addition to the rock ‘n roll legend Graham Nash, guests have included Jane Seymour, Livingston Taylor, Peter Max, Dar Williams and a score of others, both from local and national stages. And as a Jersey local herself, Mary loves when she can highlight the talents and missions of those in the surrounding communities. While she spent time puddle jumping around nearby shore points through the years (along with some time in Pennsylvania and a short stint in Northern California), Cape May is now where she calls home.

It’s fitting, too, and not only because her radio show is based in town. Mary has performed all around Cape May, including at the annual Christmas tree lighting for 13 years. She has hosted open mics at Magic Brain Cafe (in addition to a number of other places, such as at the Ocean City Free Public Library) and performs at Good Scents, which is also the underwriter for her radio show.

“They’re really great in supporting both myself and the arts,” Mary said.

Nowadays, Mary brings her range of genres (she’s found much inspiration lately in Appalachia music) “all over,” she said, taking her “community building far and wide through the arts” motto to heart. She performs in Lehigh, Bucks and Delaware counties in Pennsylvania; in Lewes and Rehoboth Beach in Delaware; and all across the Garden State.

At the end of the day, Mary wants to continue bringing music to as many people as she can reach, whether that’s through her radio show, open mic events or personal or group performances.

“There are more things to bring us together than separate us,” Mary said, “and I think music can do that.”

ALEX approached Black Elm as if she was sidling up to a wild animal, cautious in her walk up the long, curving driveway, careful not to show her fear. How many times had she made this walk? But today was different.

A SMEAR of red across her thumb pressed into the hollows and spirals of her skin. Pip studied it like a maze. It could be blood, if she squinted. It wasn’t, but she could trick her eyes if she wanted to.

THE federal agents in my office were lucky for two reasons. First, my left hook wasn’t what it had been before getting shot. And second, I hadn’t been able to work my way up into feeling anything, let alone mad enough to make me consider doing something stupid.

56 OCNJMAGAZINE.COM MAY 2023 Buzzing with Excitement www.oceancitylibrary.org 1735 Simpson Ave. | (609) 399-2434 From best-selling books to workshops, and from online resources to children’s activities, the Ocean City Free Public Library has something for everyone this spring. CHECK OUT OUR NEW APP Visit our website and click “Newsletter Sign Up” for the latest news on our events and programs. LIBRARY HOURS IN-PERSON Mon.-Fri. 9am-9pm Sat. 9am-5pm • Sun. 11am-5pm Visit OceanCityLibrary.org for a complete list of resources, policies, and procedures. CURBSIDE PICKUP Mon.-Fri. 9am-6pm Sat. 9am-4pm Sun. 11am-4pm On the Beach Beach Reads thriller young adult romantic comedy
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" selections MAY

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!

57 BOWFISH STUDIOS One of a kind interactive makeover experiences for ages 3 and up Inside Bowfish Kids, 956 Asbury 938-1901 www.bowfishstudios.com FLYOCNJ PARASAIL State-of-the-art boats and equipment 314 Bay 398-1000 www.flyocnj.com GILLIAN’S WONDERLAND PIER Amusements with the family in mind since 1929. 6th and Boardwalk 399-7082 www.gillians.com GREATE BAY GOLF CLUB 18-hole Championship course 901 Mays Landing Road, Somers Point 927-5071 www.greatebay.com GREATE BAY RACQUET AND FITNESS Indoor squash and tennis, fitness classes 90 Mays Landing Road, Somers Point 925-9550 www.greatebay.com JILLY’S ARCADE Awesome arcade, skeeball, pinball 1172 Boardwalk 385-1234 www.jillysocnj.com LOCAL GYM & FITNESS Ocean City's complete gym 908 Asbury 545-8732 www.localgymandfitness.com OC AQUATIC & FITNESS CENTER Salt water pool 1735 Simpson 398-6900 www.ocnj.us OCEAN CITY ARTS CENTER Classes, shows, summer art camp 1735 Simpson 399-7628 www.oceancityartscenter.org OCEAN CITY HISTORICAL MUSEUM Check out OC’s past through postcards, photos and exhibits 1735 Simpson 399-1801 www.ocnjmuseum.org OCEAN CITY FISHING CENTER Boat rentals, full bait and tackle store 300 Bay 391-8300 www.fishocnj.com OCEAN CITY LIBRARY Filled with DVDs, games, and books 1735 Simpson 399-2434 www.oceancitylibrary.org OC MUNICIPAL GOLF COURSE 12 hole, par 3 26th and Bay 399-5762 www.ocnj.us OC POPS An Ocean City tradition Various venues 525-9248 www.oceancitypops.org OC THEATRE COMPANY Broadway style shows 1501 West 525-9300 oceancitytheatrecompany.com PLAYLAND’S CASTAWAY COVE Over 30 rides, two mini golf courses, and Go Karts 1020 Boardwalk 399-4751 www.oceancityfun.com US LIFE SAVING STATION 30 Living history museum 801 E. 4th 736-0130 www.uslifesavingstation30.com Activities Guide Historical Museum x Jilly's Arcade x Playland x

On the Beach Spot It

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

58 OCNJMAGAZINE.COM MAY 2023
1. Sea Interiors, 3314 Simpson 2. Johnny B Goode, 3339 West. 3. Surfers Supplies, 3101 Asbury. 4. Sandwich Bar, 3255 Asbury. 5. Mark Soifer Park, 9th & Asbury. 6. Berger Realty, 3160 Asbury.

On the Beach Word Search

>> WHAT YOU’RE LOOKING FOR

SPRING FLING MEMORIAL DAY

COME ON SUMMER

SUNSHINE DAYDREAM

BEACH UMBRELLAS

BEACH PLUMS

DUNE GRASSES

SAND

There are four extra hidden words/phrases in this puzzle. The first 10 people to find all 25 and message us on either Instagram @ ocnjmagazine or Facebook @oceancitymagazine with the correct answers will win a 2023 Welcome to Ocean City guidebook.

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C O M E O N S U M M E R Z Y U M E I P A V Q S A U A K T C D Q I A O C T O P U S S T X B Q S P Z Z G S P R I N G F L I N G X V S G E R O Q J E T S K I D T R R Y U N D R J Z D T S O S W T H K X H S Q A R O A Y R X A Q Y W X Y Y U Z P N U Y T P B M I P F D R O K Y C V D F A J T N E R A S D K G E U U Z K R T A I Q C G B P Z Z I S X E T Z R D S A L E B N S P Q S V A F M C C F C H Z S U Y A U Z C P V A F K H R E E L E M I N Y N I L S R S N K Y H H J N G C G G O D K H O O D D A N X O E X G V L U C F U O D U N E G R A S S E S E E C S T E E R V M A I J D Y K W A N O Q M H N V C D G H O I A O Y B E R S S M B V H G J M A Q S G O A D O U O S G B R B E X V H C F K M E F J V R T B Y Y T R D J H I E J W P Y Q S X I K J T B S O Q U D W S S Z U S T L O O A V J O R D A N C A P L A N R E S I B O F O L T R D A R N R Z G M J G W C Y V E Q H N W T I N A J K D N T V H Y W T E K U A Q E A P O C R H Q P S D S L Q F I R I T N I E D T Y K M X W Y I Q X Y W B D E N F A M I L Y F U N U T O O R R N M T S I Y B F B S N A C K S E C P A R A S A I L I N G C I X C R O S X Q K B Q A M G V T N I O P S Y E L S E E B S A T B M H R B D W K J M T V G N I D I R E K I B Y R U V M E M O R I A L D A Y S I L K Y S A N D Z G D I A A I H R Y C P O R C H P A R T Y W O P V N B L
SILKY
HYDRANGEAS
PARASAILING
JORDAN CAPLAN BEESLEY’S POINT JET SKI PADDLE BOARD NATURE TOURS FIREWORKS FAMILY FUN
ESPRESSO SHOTS BIKE RIDING REEL ‘EM IN PORCH PARTY

Be Well

WITH LAUREN DECKARD

5 WAYS TO SPRING CLEAN YOUR HEALTH

1. Get outside.

When living by the beach, the wind makes or breaks the day. Even if it’s a sunny day, we might not be able to feel our noses with the nippy wind. For a lot of people, cloudier winter days mean staying indoors. Now that the weather is getting warmer and we’re running out of excuses, we need to get outside daily. Why? Vitamin D is a huge factor in a healthy immune system by boosting mental health, strengthening bones, and absorbing calcium. Morning sun is ideal - between 8am and 10am for about 15 to 20 minutes. Absorbing the sun for just this short amount of time will even help you sleep better at night.

2. Move it, move it!

Most people spend more time sitting in the winter than usual. Most obviously, because it’s so cold outside and the perfect time to snuggle up and binge-watch TV… with snacks. A huge reason why we need to get up and move is our lymphatic system; the very system that’s responsible for removing bacteria, viruses, and toxins from the body. The crazy thing is, it doesn’t have a pump. Without lymph movement, it stays stagnant and leads to disease and other chronic issues. What helps it move? You do! Literally, every step you take helps it do its job. Take a walk on the boards, Downtown, over the bridge, or on the beach. Be careful of how long you’re sitting each day. Just an hour’s walk a day will help the lymph fluid move throughout your body.

3. Detox.

In the winter we tend to rely on comfort foods and eating whatever we want to get through those colder months –especially around the holidays! However, now is the perfect time to start a cleanse and detox. There are many different options online, but if you want to support local like we always do, visit Goji on Asbury and ask about their juice cleanse. They have different levels and options to fit your lifestyle.

4. Revamp your sleep schedule.

Aside from absorbing sunlight during the day and getting exercise in, it’s super important to stop looking at your phone two hours before bedtime. Yup, two. This is important not only because of the mental health effects of nighttime doomscrolling, but how blue light affects our bodies. The blue light on our phones mimics daylight, which can be helpful in keeping us alert during the day, but while we’re scrolling at night, it’s the opposite of what we want. It’s tricking our brains into thinking it’s still daytime, which of course will impact our circadian rhythm. Plus, while scrolling you may come across some anxiety-inducing content that will prevent you from sleeping well. Unsurprisingly, stress and anxiety are commonly two major reasons for disrupted sleep. So put that phone away and focus on some zzzs.

5. Up that self-care.

Were you able to keep up with everything important to you that was just for you? Self-care is crucial to our well-being and it means taking the time to do things that we love to take care of our minds, bodies, and souls. If you haven’t, it’s time to start! Take a morning walk on the beach, book a massage, acupuncture, or a facial, start journaling, order your favorite meal, or book your favorite workout class at the gym. Self-care doesn’t have to be extravagant – just a daily practice or occasional activity that relaxes you and brings you true happiness!

60 OCNJMAGAZINE.COM MAY 2023

OC Services Directory

PLACES TO STAY

Atlantis Inn Boutique Hotel European-inspired 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, well-appointed, 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 Wi-Fi and cable. 1001 Ocean Avenue, 399-7500.

Osborne’s Inn 50 yards from Boardwalk, free WiFi, 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, 3992910.

ASSET MANAGEMENT

Reich Asset Management 110 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, 888-3990076.

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

Daniel Maimone Remax 3301 Bay, 6709978.

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 609525-4830.

PHOTOGRAPHY

Memories by Maria Photography Engagement, wedding, and family photography. www.memoriesbymariaphotography.com.

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 offered. 2201 Bay Avenue, 609-399-8505.

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 will make its debut in just a few weeks! 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 and previous issues, and so much more.

©2023

Ocean City magazine

Editor in Chief

Stefanie Godfrey editor@ocnjmagazine.com

Sales Director/ Chief Coffee Maker

Bill Godfrey localocean@comcast.net

Graphic Design

Kirsty Smith

Editorial

Kristen Dowd

Contributor/Sales

Megan Antosy

Contributors

Fred Miller, Lauren Deckard, Caitlin Peck, Amy Mahon, Linda Arceo, Emily Liu, Kevin Callahan, Anthony J. Mazziotti III, Madeleine Maccar

Photographer

Kerri Janto

Cover Artist

Lauren DeMarco

IG @laurenspired

Cuddler in Chief Olive the Bernedoodle

61

OC Services Real Tour

tour this home

Southend Gem!

This huge custom single-family features three levels of living space with seven bedrooms, five and a half baths, two living rooms, elevator, four decks, chef's kitchen, two-car garage, one block to beach, and much more! Contact Daniel Maimone for more details on this spectacular new construction!

62 OCNJMAGAZINE.COM MAY 2023
Listed by Daniel Maimone at Remax, 3301 Bay Avenue, Ocean City, NJ Contact Dan
609-398-7100 • 609-670-9978 • ocdaniel@comcast.net
4538 Asbury, Ocean City $2.95 million x
63 OCEAN CITY FAMILY PRACTICE CENTER GARY W. RAAB, DO BOARD CERTIFIED IN FAMILY MEDICINE “We specialize in care for the entire family” 6TH STREET & CENTRAL AVE. OCEAN CITY 500 6TH STREET ACROSS FROM OC TABERNACLE EMERGENCIES ACCEPTED  DAILY, EVENING, & SATURDAY HOURS BY APPOINTMENT Family Nurse Practitioners B. Denise Hemby, RN, MSN, APN-C Teresa Byrd RN, MSN, APN-C 609-399-1862 OCEAN CITY DENTAL CENTER GERALD F. RAAB, DDS, PA DIANE G. STONE, HYGIENIST SCOTT H. RAAB, LAB TECH General & Family Dentistry 6TH & WEST AVE. OCEAN CITY SAME DAY EMERGENCY CARE 609-399-4542 › Laser Gum Treatment › Invisible Brace › Crowns, Bridges, Implants › Full Service Lab On Premises 1 HOUR WHITENING AVAILABLE Atlantic Coast Denistry for Children Mark R. Raab, D.M.D 450 SHORE ROAD, SOMERS POINT Where we em phasize preventive care! 609-601-9566
64 OCNJMAGAZINE.COM MAY 2023 US Life Saving Station No. 30 Open Daily, 10am-4pm www.uslifesavingstation30.com 801 E 4th Street 609-736-0130 Experience the History Free Admisssion!

in Senior Living

65 Home | Condo | Business | Flood | Cyber | Auto | Marine 609-597-8507 | MCMAHONAGENCY.COM 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 Living | Assisted Living | Rehabilitation | Tapestries® Memory Care Respite | Bridges℠ Hospice and Palliative Care | Long Term Care | Transitions 2201 Bay Avenue, Ocean City, NJ 08226 TheShores.UMCommunities.org 609-473-1958 MAY 2021–MAY 2022 USA Certified
Independence
Reclaim

Last Shot

Rainbow Bright

April showers bring... double rainbows in this case... shading the sky two distinct grays.

Photo by Meg Antosy, @lotusandoctopus
67 3160 Asbury Avenue Ocean City, NJ (888) 399-0076 1670 Boardwalk Ocean City, NJ (888) 579-0095 109 E. 55th Street 1330 Bay Avenue Ocean City, NJ (855) 399-1330 www.bergerrealty.com #1 in ocean city sales & rentals Your NUMBER ONE Realty In Sales And Rentals! Your Southend Specialist! Call Us today! BERGER REALTY Leon K. Grisbaum #1 in ocean city sales and summer rentals 3160 Asbury Avenue Ocean City, NJ (888) 399-0076 55th & Haven Avenue Ocean City, NJ (800) 399-3484 www.bergerrealty.com NEW SINGLE FAMILY CONSTRUCTION IN OCEAN CITY Brian Kolmer (609) 425-1391 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. 110 Roosevelt Blvd, Ste 2W • Marmora, NJ 08223 609-486-5073 • www.ReichAssetManagement.com Your Enjoyable Retirement SolutionTM at the shore. At Reich Asset Management, we help you have an enjoyable retirement. As your guide, we want to help you reach your goals and believe in building a long-term relationship that stands the test of time. Rentals and Sales from Beach to Bay! Your dream home or vacation rental is just over the horizon! 717 Battersea Road Ocean City, NJ 08226 (609) 399-1311 3201 Central Avenue Ocean City, NJ 08226 (609) 399-0998 @monihanrealty Check us out on MONIHAN COM
Long & Foster. For the love of home.™ Because you don’t want to just live in it. You want to love it. * By transaction sides as part of HomeServices of America and according to REAL Trends 500. © 2021 The Long & Foster Companies. All Rights Reserved. TWO LOCATIONS TO SERVE YOU: Ocean City Main Office 14 E 9th Street | 609-398-6762 Ocean City-Grisbaum Group 628 Asbury Ave | 609-938-9954 Helping people buy and sell homes since 1968. With 50 years and counting in real estate, we have learned a few things about guiding people home. Our expertise and commitment to clients has made us the No. 1 real estate company in the United States.* Escape to the shore on your next vacation. Visit OCNJVacationRental.com Find your way home at longandfoster.com
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