August Issue of Ocean City magazine

Ocean City

august2010

magazine

Only $2!

Surfin’ Safari!

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

Coconut Shrimp Crab Cake

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

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

It’s where the locals eat!

EAT INSIDE, OUTSIDE, OR TAKE HOME!

Notes from the Beach

F

irst comes love, then comes marriage, then comes mommy with a baby carriage.” We’ve all heard that silly little schoolyard rhyme above, and I’m sure, have even sung it once or twice. With the upcoming 101st Baby Parade this month in the OC, I can’t seem to get it out of my head. The Baby Parade is one of the top events of the season and a must-see if you’ve never been to one before. Parents decorate a float and pull their baby(ies) along the Boardwalk. Prizes are awarded in several categories. It’s pretty darn cute.

I’m going to go in reverse for a minute here. We’ve spoken of babies, now a little love comes in. My dear friend and fabulous city editor of the Ocean City Sentinel, Kristen Riley is set to marry her fiance John Dowd on August 14. Kristen and John got engaged last year on the

beach in Ocean City. I wish them the best and here’s hoping the silly rhyme applies to them.

Laura Kiniry, our fearless contributor, got engaged in mid-July to her boyfriend Matthew Jones. He proposed in San Francisco’s Golden Gate Park.

I love when love is in the air.

Ocean City may be America’s Greatest Family Resort but it’s for lovers too.

That was evident on July 4 for the fireworks ceremony. Lots of couples (and families) cozied up with each other on blankets and beach chairs to watch the amazing display light up the night sky over the Atlantic. The show was truly spectacular, with dazzling and seemingly endless fireworks. It was a show to rival any big city’s, only better because we were able to sit on the beach comfortably and enjoy. Thanks Ocean City!

I just wrote about the beginning of July which feels like it was yesterday and already it’s August.

The school packets are coming in, backto-school ads are popping up (when I was a kid, this would send me over the edge), and a hint of sadness is filling the otherwise salty air.

Since I’m particularly sensitive to the “end-of-summer” blues, I say we enjoy every moment August brings. Let’s have late afternoon barbecues, Downtown shopping visits on one of the special days like FUNtastic Tuesdays,

OC mag contributor Laura Kiniry and Matthew Jones got engaged in July. Here they are in front of the Arc de Triomphe du Carrousel in Paris

ocnjmagazine.com

Ocean City

take an Inn-to-Inn Tour, eat a slice of watermelon on the beach (seagulls don’t like watermelon, do they?), bike the entire island, ride both ferris wheels in town, and paint some seashells. There’s still a month of freedom left before school begins (then there’s weekends). Take advantage, man.

Take advantage.

You’ll find a whole lot to see and do (and read about) in this month’s issue. Bill Godfrey takes on the waves Hawaiian-style and learns how to surf. See the story on page 36.

Amanda Strube gets the scoop on two local business owners, Drew Pessano and Katie Ball of Pessano’s Variety store and Laura’s Fudge, respectively. Drew and Katie are part of the new breed of young business owners on the island. It’s exciting that small business thrives here.

Also inside, a conversation with new mayor Jay Gillian on page 43. He’s continuing a legacy set by his father Roy who was mayor from ’86-’90.

Get spooked pre-halloween with Bill Godfrey’s Ghost Story on page 45 and see him go all Willy Wonka with a Shriver’s best of list on page 40. Yes the candy man can and he mixes it with love.

It comes first, you know.

PS. This issue is dedicated to my beloved grandmother Rae Bordo. She passed away at the age of 86 on July 9, 2010. She was the coolest person I’ve ever known. A reprint of her daughter Claudia’s favorite memory is on page 18.

ON THE COVER: Catherine Boljen, Bryn O’Neill, Kelly Unger, and Jamie Slate head to the waves. Photo by Eric Weeks.

3

features

Surfin’ Safari 36 The Candy Man 40 Family Ties 43 Ghost Call 45

staying

dining

Five Food Finds 5 In the Kitchen 6 Recipe 9 Famished Foodie 10 The Dining Guide 12

things to do

August Calendar 19 Soifer’s Seven 20 Favorite Memories 18 Photos 15, 16, 17, 21, 25, & 53 Kid Calendar 23

Real Speak 52 Staying Over 54

shopping

Stef’s Must Haves 29 In the Biz 30 The Shopping Guide 32 Trends 34

the rest

Notes from the Beach 3 Sports in the OC 48 OC Quiz/Word Search 50 It’s History 55

august

Ocean City

Eating in the OC ONE OF THE BEST things about Ocean City is the food. Whether it’s on the Boards, Downtown or another location on the island, the eats are legend. Read on to experience the spicy life of Reds Bridgens, the smiley owner of Red’s Jersey Mex – a local haunt. Also inside you’ll go wild with Al Dente at Island Grill, chill out with a fab recipe from Ocean City Seafood and get hot with any of the five food finds below. August in the OC is indeed hot and spicy. Olé.

Al Dente’s Five Food Finds Spicing things up in the OC

1

3

Buffalo Chicken Cheesesteak sub from Kirk’s Pizza in Marmora

2

Jerk Chicken Salad from Red’s Jersey Mex

Enchilada with red mole and house salsa from Cinco de Mayo

4

5

Firecracker Shrimp from Hula Restaurant & Sauce Co.

Chicken Tacos with tomato chipotle salsa from Pure Tacos

In the Kitchen

Reds Bridgens RED’S JERSEY MEX

D

Bill Godfrey finds out about the man behind the fire and the fiery red hair

ave Bridgens is one of the nicest guys in town.

By the way, if you know Reds as “Dave,” then you’ve known him for a looooong time. He’s quick with a smile and he always has a big hello whenever I walk into his restaurant on 11th Street.

Truth be told though, I wouldn’t want

6

to be on his bad side, but whatever.

Anyway, for a red-headed Irishman, he makes some darn good Mexican food – Jersey-Mex food to be exact. If you’ve never eaten there, I suggest you close this magazine (go ahead and bookmark the page) and head over there right now (take the magazine with you if you’d like). Red’s place, which he opened in 2004, is off the beaten track a bit, but when your food is as good as his, people find you. I’ve never had a bad meal at Red’s.

The ingredients are fresh and his staff is a conscientious bunch that prepares and serves the dishes properly and with a smile. If you’ve been around this scene for some time, you may remember Reds from his days at the Waterfront in Somers Point (if you don’t know what the Waterfront was, well, it was a fun place to go back in the day). And if you’ve never heard of Jersey-Mex, keep reading. Then

Ocean City

head to Reds Jersey-Mex at 11th and Haven and order anything on the menu.

You’ll say “Ay Caramba that’s good!”

No really, that’s just what you’ll say.

OCmag: What exactly is Jersey-Mex? I never heard of it until I walked into your place a few years back.

Reds: Jersey-Mex is Mexican with a fresh Jersey style and attitude. We mix traditional Mexican ingredients with a little Jersey style and get dishes that aren’t traditionally Mexican. We do enchiladas, which are traditional, but we do stuff like a grilled chicken verde burrito, which is more Jersey-Mex style.

Jersey-Mex is our twist on traditional Mexican fare.

OCmag: What was your path to JerseyMex at 11th and Haven?

Reds: It was a long and winding road Bill, a long and winding road. It started in Fort Wayne, Indiana on a cold, wintery night in 1962. But I grew up in Ocean City and I got the idea for Mexican food from…

OCmag: Whoa, hold on. How did you get from Fort Wayne to Ocean City?

Reds: My parents were in college and I was a love child born while they were in college. They were summer people and we moved here when I was six months old. My grandmother had a guest house at 6th and Atlantic Avenue called the Breeze Way. Now it’s called Barrister’s.

OCmag: Okay, continue with the story of the food.

Reds: Anyway, in 1992 I was living in Denver and there were great Mexican restaurants there. A guy on my corner had a Mexican burrito truck and I thought it would be a great thing in Ocean City. I had a background in food and beverage, and Denver was the first time I wasn’t in the food and beverage business. I hated what I was doing and I thought ‘when I get back east I’m going to open up a Mexican restaurant.’ At that time there was really no Mexican

ocnjmagazine.com

In the Kitchen food around here. The only place was in Atlantic City, which was Los Amigos. Once I moved back east, it took me about six more years to get Rojo’s Tacos started on the Boardwalk. Then we evolved into Rojo’s JerseyMex about six years ago, and I just changed the name to Red’s Jersey-Mex. I was tired of working for other people and I thought, ‘if I’m ever going to do it, I got to do it now.’

OCmag: Back in the day, where else did you work around here?

Reds: The Waterfront, Caroline’s, Obadiah’s, the old Harry’s Inn when I was a kid. I was mainly a bartender or bar manager or a general manager, but I always liked

to cook. I would work on end. But I don’t get to spend recipes on my own and that too much time at the beach. led to the current menu.

In the fall you’ll see me out OCmag: Ocean City High trying to catch a wave or School?

Reds: Oh yes, I went through all the Ocean City schools.

OCmag: Okay, say I’ve never been here before, what do you suggest on the menu?

Left: Owner Reds holding one of his Reds: I would delish plates. Above: Fresh Jersey Mex get some fish tacos, a super burrito, some enchiladas and have two, but in the summer, it’s everybody share. nose to the grindstone.

OCmag: Where do you go to OCmag: Ever get a chance the beach? to relax?

Reds: I like the ends of the Reds: Yeah, I like to go to island, north end or south Costa Rica or Mexico. Surf,

relax, eat the food. Just chill out.

OCmag: But you’re open year round.

Reds: Yeah, but I can get away in the winter for a week or two. Just go somewhere and relax. I have a good crew who can keep the place going in the winter.

OCmag: Where’d the nickname come from?

Reds: You mean Reds?

OCmag: Yeah.

Reds: It’s because I’m easily embarrassed.

OCmag: Really?

Reds: No. It’s because I have red hair. It’s all in the hair.

That came about when I was around 18 or 19. So anybody who calls me Dave has known me for a loooooong time.

Have breakfast with us!

7a m - Noon everyday

voltaco’s

OPEN ‘TIL SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 19 Serving dinner nightly & lunches thru Labor Day

Italian Foods to Take Out

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

Fresh seafood at terrific prices! Serving daily specials & chowders. A bayside restaurant with waterfront views and a nice breeze. The Clam Bar is a great place to sit, but there’s room inside too. Great for families.

910 Bay Avenue, Somers Point ocnjmagazine.com

957 West Avenue, OC

609-399-0753•609-399-0743

Same Family Owned Since 1954

Ocean City

7

ocnjmagazine.com

Ocean City

8

Recipe of the Month

Chef John’s Chilled Lobster Rolls Ocean City Seafood, 846 Central Avenue, OC

INGREDIENTS: 1 2-3 lb cold water lobster (whole) 1 small Spanish (white) onion (diced) 1 seedless cucumber (diced) 1 tsp fresh dill 1 lemon (juiced) 2 cups mayo 1 tsp Dijon mustard 1/2 celery stalk 12 hot dog rolls brushed with melted butter

PREPARATION: 1.Steam and chill lobster. 2.Clean and crack all knuckles, claws and tails and gently pull meat apart. 3.Cut into small pieces.

4.In a separate bowl mix mayo, dill, and vegetables well and customers: chill. 5.Add chilled lobster to the dressing and toss lightly.

2' brown.

5,*+7.Scoop )2golden in 2009, it6.Grill was the hot dog salad 7 12: 6($until $/buns ( 5 ward to serving into hot dog buns. 8.Serve with micro greens, diced ripe Jerear. If you seyare tomatoes, and your favorite sides. Bon Appetite. ! We hope you food uses only ure dishes and to prepare may A Special Note to all our customers: Thank you to all who supported us in 2009, it was ($)22' 5,*+7 12: e 4:30 to avoid 5($/ 6 a great first season. We look forward to serving Eat In—Take Out—Delivery– Catering eal. you again in our sophomore year. If you are

RS

visiting us a first time, welcome! We hope you enjoy your meal. Ocean City Seafood uses only fresh crab meat in all our signature dishes and soups. Great seafood takes time to prepare may we suggest calling in orders before 4:30 to avoid a longer waiting period for your meal.

am – 9:30 pm 00 pm

203

ice

e

ty Size, ith You To ss.

od.com

Fresh Crab Meat Tastes Best!

A Special Note to all our customers:

“This is a great cold dish for a hot summer day,

Custard

CALL Fresh Shore” Crab Meat Tastes Best!

“Best of

Philadelphia Magazine 609-814-1203

MONDAY - SATURDAY 11:00 am – 9:30 pm SUNDAY 12:00 am - 9:00 pm

“Best of Shore”

Philadelphia Magazine

Castle

Ice Cream Made Right Here!

Out—Delivery– Catering Dine-In / Take-OutEat In—Take / Delivery

SUMMER HOURS

5 ($

Thank you to all who supported us in 2009, it was really light with a great seafood taste.” a great first season. We look forward to serving Kathi Sica, owner you again in our sophomore year. If you are visiting us a first time, welcome! We hope you enjoy your meal. Ocean City Seafood uses only fresh crab meat in all our signature dishes and soups. Great seafood takes time to prepare may we suggest calling in orders before 4:30 to avoid a longer waiting period for your meal.

Fres

soft -serve SUMMER HOURS MONDAY - SATURDAY 11:00 am – 9:30 pm Fat-Free Yogurt SUNDAY 12:00 am - 9:00 pm

609-814-1203

609-814-1203

on the Corner of 9th & Central Avenue www.oceancityseafood.com

Catering Service

onJohn theFor Corner Call Chef A Freeof FOR ORDERS OVER $30.00 9th &Consultation, Central Avenue Catering DELIVERY Whatever The OccasionFREE Or Party Size, www.oceancityseafood.com In Ocean City / After 4 pm EARLY ! To Ocean City Seafood Will WorkCALL With You 609-814-1203 Make Your Event A Success.

“

castle swirls

Ph

Dips, Jimmies, Toppings sundaes

&

6

splits

137 Route 9, Marmora (609) 390-4432

FOR ORDERS OVER $30.00

FREE DELIVERYOcean City

ocnjmagazine.com

9

ww

Famished Foodie

Island Grill

I

T WAS a hot summer night in the beginning of July when I set out to dine for my next Famished Foodie review. My assignment this time was to check out the Island Grill on 2nd and Atlantic Avenue in OC. This large restaurant boasts some of OC’s finest real estate, only one block up from the ocean, and serves the ocean’s finest. I’ve driven past this place many a summer night and have seen the lines that form outside first hand so I knew I’d need to go early to secure a table inside.

The temperature outside was a whopping 98 degrees that day so my dining partners and I were looking forward to the comfort of eating indoors.

When we arrived we noticed several people around the hostess stand giving their names, as well as some sitting on the benches inside awaiting a table. After providing the hostess our name and party size she kindly gave us the option of sitting inside (half hour) or outside (now). After consulting with the group we chose outside. The inside looked inviting, it was cool, nautical, cool, artsy, and did I mention cool? Despite the allure of the inside, we followed the nice hostess to our table “outdoors.”

The al fresco dining at Island Grill is such a treat. You can practically smell the ocean while you sit and the people-watching is fun, too. Despite the hot temps there was a very refreshing breeze that would’ve been surely missed had we sat inside. We also noticed the throngs of people fetching their take-out orders. That’s a good sign. I was starting to have a good feeling about this place. The decor outdoors, I noticed,

10

Al Dente goes al fresco at this OC restaurant were resin tables meant to look like wood and cloth napkins, which added a special touch. The kids in our party noticed we were separated from the sidewalk by a nautical rope and wood pilings. A very appropriate decorative touch considering the endless selection of fresh fish on the menu.

Speaking of the menu, right after we sat down we were handed ours to look over.

I was pleasantly surprised to see such a

large and varied menu. Our server greeted us while filling our water glasses and took our drink order. She said the menu was large and she would give us time to mull it over while she got our beverages.

When she returned we were informed of all added fish selections for the evening.

I figured there would be maybe three or four, but I think it was more like seven to 10. Our server described fish I hadn’t recognized which immediately piqued my interest. Tilefish!? Corvino!? Wow. She had an accurate description of each one written on a “cheat sheet,” which proved to be very helpful as we started asking a lot of questions. We began our meal with two

Ocean City

appetizers that were housemade – batterfried onion rings and mako bites.

The onion rings were a large enough portion to share and a refreshing alternative to the pre-breaded variety that a lot of restaurants pass off as their own. They were short on grease and big on flavor.

The mako bites were moist chunks of really fresh shark meat coated in a breadcrumb, fried and served with a raspberry mustard vinaigrette dipping sauce. Though the sauce sounded good, I found it to be an odd match for the mako and decided they were delicious on their own.

The next course was the salad that came with our meal. I chose a Caesar, and my partners got the house. The Caesar was crisp romaine topped with croutons and a creamy garlicky dressing.

It was a very good Caesar and is offered on the menu with chicken as an entree.

The house salad was a fresh blend of carrots and tomatoes and an Italian vinaigrette. We asked our server before ordering if any of the dressings are made in house and she kindly informed us that they were not, however the brand they used was very convincing none the less. The bus boy brought over a basket of sesame seed dinner rolls and butter, this made our nonsalad-eating toddlers happy. Other things that kept them happy were crayons, paper, and juice boxes. I loved that we could get the children a juice box and so did they.

Our entrees arrived next. I had to try something new, which is easy to do at the Island Grill considering ostrich and other various wild game is on the menu. I chose the corvino, a thicker white fish filet with a

ocnjmagazine.com

Famished Foodie mild flavor, just as our waitress described.

The fish was perfectly moist and so fresh.

It was served over tomato, broccoli rabe, garlic, and olives. A very Mediterranean preparation. My partners also opted for seafood. The baked flounder with a lemon butter sauce was simple, pure and again cooked-to-perfect-doneness, a choice of two side orders were creamy garlic whipped red-skinned potatoes, and stewed tomatoes. We were all happy to see the sides were not just “space maintainers” on the plate, but actually very delicious in their own right. The flounder tasted like it could have been caught that day.

The next dish was shrimp alfredo with sundried tomato. A creamy and sweet concoction that was full of flavor and truly decadent. The entree came with plenty of pasta and the size of the shrimp exceeded our expectations as did the amount served.

We all agreed that the portion sizes are generous with leftovers to take home.

The children enjoyed fried shrimp and penne pasta topped with red sauce. The

impressive part of the kids dinner was not so much the flavor of the food but more the presentation. Their meals were served in a frisbee that they could keep. How fun is that? I liked the food choices for the kids.

They were a nice blend of starch, fruit, fried and grilled options. The Island Grill is very kid friendly and the parents will

appreciate the upscale selections on the menu for themselves. I found the menu to be so broad and so huge that I wish I was dining with a party of ten so I could sample some of the other menu options like ostrich or one of the many yummy sounding burgers.

We will have to go back. I really enjoyed eating outdoors. Ocean City, with its sea breezes and cool island air, is a perfect place to dine al fresco, which can be a very special experience. It was fun watching people trailing their beach gear back home, and wondering if maybe they’ll take this table after we are finished. I hoped so, as they would not be disappointed.

After all what could be better than a day at the beach followed by a meal from the sea at Island Grill? Sounds like the perfect summer day to me.

I’ll be back not only for seconds, but for thirds and recommend Island Grill to anyone seeking a wide varied menu, fresh seafood and al fresco dining in a spot that’s also kid friendly.

Dinner, club, rounD rolls italian stick large italian Multi-grain, Wheat cinn-raisin, cran-Walnut toMato pie, spinach artichoke Dip, olive breaD, seeDeD & plain seMolina Focaccia

1159 Asbury Avenue 609-398-9450

“betta” on a BENNIE! NEW

stuffed breads pepperoni & cheese sausage & cheese Meatball parM buFFalo chicken

“betta” on a BENNIE! ocnjmagazine.com

spinach & toMato

Now at Fresh-m Bennie’s ade B Get som agels e!

broccoli rabe & sausage

NEW Ocean City

11

Th e Di n in g Guid e Bill Godfrey’s useful, slightly quirky guide to eating out in Ocean City ALL NATURAL AWARD WINNING PIZZA The name says it all. Good stuff. 1136 Asbury Avenue, 391-2212.

BEACON INTERNET & COFFEE Lattes, Cappuccinos, Frappes, and Cannoli. Muffins & bagels too. 1301 West Avenue, (609) 525-9906.

BENNIE’S BREAD AND ROLLS Magnificent bread, Italian pastries, cakes, and Italian pie – yum! 1159 Asbury Avenue, 398-9450. See ad page 11.

BERENATO’S CORNER DELI Joe told me to put him in the guide – or else.

Please go eat there. Or else. 47 Atlantic Avenue, 399-2751.

BLOOM ‘N TULIP A full menu of fantastic fare, just steps from the beach. Breakfast, lunch, & dinner.

1001 Ocean Avenue, 399-4953.

BOYAR’S MARKET Famous for their party trays, they also have great sandwiches for a smaller crowd.

1340 Asbury Avenue, 398-1343.

BROWN’S RESTAURANT Unbelievably fresh donuts. Breakfast and lunch. St. Charles and Boardwalk, 391-0677.

CAFE BEACH CLUB Outstanding views and great food. 1280 Boardwalk, 398-7700.

CUSTARD CASTLE Fresh, homemade ice cream served up by super friendly folks. Try the new Cinnamon Bun. Fat-free yogurt too! 137 Route 9, (609) 390-4432. See ad page 9.

DEL’S OCEANSIDE GRILL A topnotch menu sure to please adults and the kiddies too. 934 Boardwalk, 399-3931.

CASA DEL DOLCE House of Sweets.

947 Asbury, 398-9300.

DEFUSCO’S TRATTORIA New this year. But owner/chef Lou De Fusco makes great stuff so we’re waiting with anticipation. 8th and Asbury in the Crown Bank building.

CHATTERBOX RESTAURANT Big. Pink. Legendary. 500 9th Street, 399-0113. See ad page 11.

EMILY’S OCEAN ROOM CAFÉ At the famous Flanders Hotel. Open year round. 719 E. 11th Street, 398-5700.

COUSIN’S RESTAURANT Varied and sophisticated menu. Outside dining too. 104 Asbury, 399-9462.

EXPRESS PIZZA & SUBS My friend Travis swears by this place – and I trust Travis. 719 E. 11th Street, 3985700.

FLIPPER’S GRILLE Outside on the pool deck at the Port-O-Call Hotel.

Burgers and such with nice outside tables. Perfect if you want to take a break from the beach. 1510 Boardwalk, 399-8812.

F&M RESTAURANT Good food and a nice outside dining area on Asbury Avenue. 1200 Asbury Avenue, 3910800. See ad page 13.

GEORGE’S CANDIES AND BREAKFAST GRILL Fantastic breakfasts, even better macaroons (it’s true).

Great ice cream too. 700 Boardwalk, 398-4444. See ad page 7.

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

ISLAND GRILL A wide variety of sea-

oves Family Beach Grill & seafood Restaurant 4th & Boardwalk, (609) 398-3712

Awesome Ocean View...Even Better Food!

Bike Rentals • Award-Winning Donuts • Beach Rental equipment 12

Ocean City

ocnjmagazine.com

food and steaks, big dining rooms.

Exotic game menu too. 100 Atlantic, 391-9616.

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

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

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

MACK & MANCO PIZZA An Ocean City icon. Three locations on the boards. 7th, 9th, and 12th Streets, 399-2548.

MCGLADE’S ON THE BAY Great deck, great food. 228 Bay Avenue, 399-5588.

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

OCEAN CITY SEAFOOD Fabulous crabcakes and voted Best of Shore.

What more could you want? Killer key lime pie maybe? Yes, they got that too. 846 Central, (609) 8141203. See ad page 9.

OC SURF CAFÉ Very good – so good it’s “sick.” Surf inspired cuisine in a cute setting. 715 8th Street, 3919555.

OVES SEAFOOD RESTAURANT Awesome. Seafood for breakfast, lunch and dinner. I like it. 4th and Boardwalk, 398-3712. See ad page 12.

THE PINK PARROT GRILLE Great ocean views at the Port-O-Call Hotel.

Kid friendly but tasty enough for the adults in your group. Breakfast and lunch. 1510 Boardwalk, 399-8812.

PREP’S PIZZERIA AND DAIRY BAR Superior thin-crust pizza. Sandwiches and salads too. Plus an ice cream bar! Lots of seats as well. 1004 Boardwalk, 398-0636.

RANDAZZO’S RESTAURANT Pizza, steaks, hoagies and fine Italian food.

Asbury between 7th and 8th streets and 34th & West Avenue, 814-1600.

READY’S COFFEE SHOP Old school.

The Dining Guide Really good old school. 415 8th Street, 399-4418.

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

SACK O’ SUBS Subs of course. Sacks optional. Really yummy good food.

926 Asbury Avenue, 525-0460.

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

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

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

THE CLAM BAR A legendary place right on the bay in Somers Point with views of Ocean City, open air dining,

Shhhhhh...

delish seafood, and corn fritters (go early if you want these).

910 Bay Avenue, Somers Point, 9278783. See ad page 7.

UNCLE BILL’S PANCAKE HOUSE An Ocean City favorite. Legendary breakfasts and lunches too. Two locations.

2112 Asbury, 40th and West, 3987393.

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

VOLTACO’S What? You didn’t already know about this place? Great Italian food. 957 West Avenue, 399-0753. See ad page 7.

WARDS PASTRY Freshly baked goodies and treats – now that’s what vacation is all about! 730 Asbury Avenue, 399-1260.

YIANNI’S CAFE Fresh and delicious. Inspired by the Island of Crete, Yianni’s birthplace. 841 Asbury Avenue, 3911113.

It’s the best kept secret on the island!

1200 Asbury Avenue, Ocean City 609-391-0080 *Full service Catering *Delivery *Breakfast, Lunch, &

*Bringing the best to your table since 1968 ocnjmagazine.com

Dinner *Deli

Ocean City

13

r s ey e j w e n rTs it y e C N O C o c ean c T AC H F r O N

su m m e r

Be

to .OCNj.us w w ur choice w to n ncert of yo o c e th just log o to tickets s • purchase reservation

n room restaurants ecial deal o elect area p s s t a a k s o n o o b ti • ner reserva ounted din c is d e k a •m mpany theatre co y it c n a e c N and the o lie B rOw n city Pops GOOd mAN, CHAr a e c o 8 /1 eA 8/17, 8 sent YOu’r sents Nd & 8/19 pre s center pre G e es Tr iB uTe BA rt a g in rm o e rf e e B P e n T kto lTimA 8/23 stoc live-TH e u sTAYiNG A s presents an city Pop Ym pHONY 8/24 oce pany e le s eatre com h t Cirqu e d y it c n a nd the oce city Pops a GOes n a e c o iNG 9/5, 9/7 ent ANYTH & 9/8 pres p Op s nts wiTH TH e Pops prese Y y A it l c p n e a l e c ip r 9/19 o u B eCk’s T CH r is B r

rt

Supported in pa

New Jersey by a grant from

Department of

State, Divis

d Tourism. ion of Travel an

111 609-399-6 ocnj.us

Local Ocean

AUGUST IN THE OC is hot hot hot. Not just in temperature, but in awesome things to do, people to see, and places to go. There’s always something happenin’ here. Check out this section to see where we’ve been, whose photo we’ve snapped, and what events you shouldn’t miss this month. Stay cool and we’ll see you out there.

Left: Amanda Schumacher, Nicole Simpkins, Jennifer Taylor, Nina Guerra, Chelsey Smith, Anna Negron and Maggie May Sabota.

The Miss Cape May County contestants take a break while rehearsing their opening number to pose for our photographer. Right: And the winner is... Anna Negron, a 19-year-old sophomore at Seton Hall University, crowned on July 10. Runner up is Maggie May Sabota.

ocnjmagazine.com

Ocean City

15

Sturdy Bank Anniversary Party June 17, Asbury Avenue Branch

16

Cricket Denton, Elizabeth Mann, Dustin Rauenzahn, Marie Gallagher, Theresa Simpkins

Barbara Beseigel-Hoffman, David Repici, Jerry Reeves, Michael Lloyd

Nate Doughty, Ronald Sulpizi, Michael J. Clark, Linda Tozour

Henry Obergfell, Dr. Jack Devine, Mayor Jay Gillian

Don Cheatle, John Sabella, Gregg Reich

Kelly and Dean Adams, Kristina Doliszny, Scott Halliday

Ocean City

ocnjmagazine.com

Around the Island July 20, 8th Street Beach

Lauren Kramer, Giana Magosin, Kate Cressman, Corinne Mustererl, and Ally Gerges all from Egg Harbor Township

Visit the Ocean City Arts Center with New Gallery Exhibits Every Month Year round Classes & Workshops (adults, teens, & Children)

Painting, Drawing, Pottery, Stained Glass, Mosaics, Sculpture, Folk Art, Dance, Writing, Photography, Piano, Guitar, Harp, Drum Lessons, & More!

Discover us at www.oceancityartscenter.org Phone: (609) 399-7628 Fax (609) 399-6145 1735 Simpson Avenue, Ocean City ocnjmagazine.com

Ocean City

17

Favorite Memories

So Much to Love Claudia Bordo shares her favorite OC memories of family, food, and fun

E

very summer, my family rents a beachfront house in Ocean City. All year I anxiously await this joyous week. My family is large and loud – you know the type. While sometimes it does get hectic, it’s always a lot of fun.

The first one up in the house is always my mom Rae, she’s 86 and makes a perfect cup of coffee. She gets her current needlepoint project from Scrim Discovery and takes a seat out on the big deck.

One by one the family wakes and trickles out with sleep still in their eyes and coffee mugs in hand. Plans are made, conversations flow. If you’re early enough, you’ll catch a glorious sunrise. It’s a must for me…

After coffee chat I like to shop at the unique stores on Asbury Avenue or go for a bike ride with my guy. The land is

18

Claudia Bordo (in red) spending time with her daughter, grandchildren, niece, sisters and mother.

flat and easy and the bike path along Haven Avenue is full of beautifully-tended gardens with fountains and flags. It even has a bird sanctuary! It’s big sky, warm breezes and friendly people... AND exercise. I’ll stop by Mallon’s for some sticky buns on my way back to the house.

Once home, there’s usually a favorite lunch being prepared; plenty of Bennie rolls and fresh cold cuts from Boyar’s with locally grown tomatoes. Everything tastes better at the shore.

After the clean up, it’s beach time.

Moving a large group is like herding sheep. Takes time. After hours of sunning, digging and swimming, we all head back... to the most amazing aroma permeating the entire house. It’s Mom’s crabs and spaghetti! Oh rapture!

This meal is a serious crowd pleaser.

Extremely messy and extremely deli-

Ocean City

cious.

At night, the walk on the Boards is always special, with suntanned faces, laughter and music everywhere. We go for the “Trifecta,” which consists of ice cream from George’s Candies, funnel cake from Jilly’s and Shriver’s salt water taffy. In our happy delirium we all stagger home. When everyone is tucked in bed I like to sit on the deck and stargaze or stroll along the beach in the moonlight.

In Ocean City, there is so much to love!

Ed. note: This favorite memory is reprinted from the 2010 Welcome to Ocean City guidebook as a tribute to Rae Bordo, who passed away on July 9, 2010. She will be greatly missed by her daughters, greatgrandchildren, and grandchildren (including me).

ocnjmagazine.com

29

30

23

•Bicycle Auction, 10am-Noon, 46th St. & West Ave. •Ultimate Bee Gees Tribute Band, 8pm Music Pier •Book Club at the OCFPL, 6:30-8pm

•Robin Massie and Steven •Book Club at the OCFPL, Condy Concert, 7pm Tabernacle 6:30-8pm •OC Pops Concert, 8pm Music Pier

22

•Steve Green Concert, 7pm Tabernacle •OC Pops Concert, 8pm Music Pier

16

31

•Mummer’s Night on the Boardwalk, 7-9pm •Beach Walks Southend, 9am/ Northend, 6:30pm •OC Pops Concert, 8pm Music Pier •Film Group, 6-8:30pm OCFPL

24

•Mummer’s Night on the Boardwalk, 7-9pm •Beach Walks Southend, 9am/ Northend, 6:30pm •OC Pops, 8pm Music Pier •Film Group, 6-8:30pm OCFPL

17

•Mummer’s Night on the Boardwalk, 7-9pm •Beach Walks Southend, 9am/ Northend, 6:30pm •OC Pops, 7:30pm Music Pier •Film Group, 6-8:30pm OCFPL •Weird Week, 11am-1pm Music

•Book Club at the OCFPL, 6:30-8pm •B.J. Thomas In Concert, 8pm Music Pier •Weird Week, 11am-1pm Music Pier

•Dave Stahl Orchestral Concert, 7pm Tabernacle •OC Pops Violinist David Kim, 8pm Music Pier

15

10

26

•Market Days, 10am-1pm •Inn to Inn Tours, 2-4pm •Family Nights, 7:30-9:30pm •OCHM, “Look, Listen, Learn”

•Farmer’s Market, 8am-1pm Tabernacle Grounds •Beach Walks Northend, 9am/ Southend, 6:30pm •Evenings Along Asbury, 5pm

25

19

•Market Days, 10am-1pm •Inn to Inn Tours, 2-4pm •Family Nights, 7:30-9:30pm •OC Pops, 7:30pm Music Pier •OCHM, “Look, Listen, Learn” •Weird Week, 11am-1pm Music Pier

•Market Days, 10am-1pm •Inn to Inn Tours, 2-4pm •Family Nights, 7:30-9:30pm •OCHM, “Look, Listen, Learn” •Twins Contest, 6pm Music Pier •101st Annual Baby Parade, 10:15am Boardwalk 12

18

•Farmer’s Market, 8am-1pm Tabernacle Grounds •Beach Walks Northend, 9am/ Southend, 6:30pm •Evenings Along Asbury, 5pm •OC Pops, 7:30pm Music Pier •Weird Week, 11am-1pm Music

11

•Farmer’s Market, 8am-1pm Tabernacle Grounds •Evenings Along Asbury, 5pm •Beach Walks Northend, 9am/Southend, 6:30pm •OC Pops, 8pm

•Mummer’s Night on the Boardwalk, 7-9pm •Beach Walks Southend, 9am/Northend, 6:30pm •Film Group, 6-8:30pm OCFPL •OC Pops, 8pm

9

•Book Club at the OCFPL, 6:30-8pm •Winger In Concert, 8pm Music Pier

5

•Market Days, 10am-1pm •Inn to Inn Tours, 2-4pm •OCHM, “Look, Listen, Learn” •Family Nights, 7:30-9:30pm •10th Annual Art of Surfing, 7pm Music Pier

•Farmer’s Market, 8am-1pm Tabernacle Grounds •Beach Walks Northend, 9am/ Southend, 6:30pm •Sand Sculpting Contest, 9am at 6th Street Beach •Evenings Along Asbury, 5pm •OC Pops, 8pm Music Pier

4

T

27

20

•Little Miss Ocean City Pageant, 7pm Music Pier •Weird Week, 11am-1pm Music Pier

13

6

•48th Annual Boardwalk Art Show, 10am-6pm •10th Annual Art of Surfing, Noon Music Pier

F

S

28

•Eastern Surfing Assoc. Surf Contest, 7am reg. 8am-Noon 7th St. Beach •OCTC’s The Magic of Broadway, 2pm & 7:30pm Music Pier

21

14

•Miss Ocean City Pageant, 8pm Music Pier

7

•10th Annual Art of Surfing, Noon Music Pier •48th Annual Boardwalk Art Show, 10am-6pm

*dates and times are subject to change, please confirm before you head out!

W

3

•Mummer’s Night on the Boardwalk, 7-9pm •Beach Walks Southend, 9am/Northend, 6:30pm •OC Pops, 8pm

T

8

•48th Annual Boardwalk Art Show, 10am-6pm •OC Pops Operatic Delights, 8pm Music Pier

2

•Book Club at the OCFPL, 6:30-8pm •Ricky Nelson Remembered, 8pm Music Pier

•Ocean City Pops Pianist Jeffrey Beigel

1

M

S

august events For more information and details on all events, visit www.ocnj.us or call (609) 525-9300

Soifer’s Seven August ’s Must-Attend Events

Go gah gah over the Baby Parade and other free events this month

1

One of my favorite events and one that’s received world-wide publicity is the Miss Crustacean Hermit Crab Beauty Pageant set for August 4 at 1pm at the 6th St. Beach. Entrants decorate their crabs creatively. This has led to such legendary winners as Copa Crabana, Crabopatra, Taxi Crab, etc. The winner waddles down a runway while an enchanted audience sings, “Here It Comes Miss Crustacean.” This event, started over 30 years ago, has been featured on TV, radio and publications throughout the world, was named one of the ten outstanding special events

in America by U.S. News and World Report and has been a question numerous times on Jeopardy. Entry is free. Prizes are awarded.

The Pamper Scamper Baby Crawling Race is held at 9:30am August 10 at the 6th St. Beach. Entrants crawl from the middle of a silk parachute. If the child stands and walks, he or she is disqualified.

Ocean City’s 101st Baby Parade will be held at 10:15am, Thursday, August 12 starting at 6th and the Boardwalk. This is the oldest, continuously running

2

3

International Karate Academy Adults

53 Laurel Dr. Somers Point, NJ (609) 927-7353

children

tae Kwon do *Develops confidence Karate, Kickboxing * increase concentration, Boxing, Judo coordination, fitness Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu *fun and exciting!

MMA team training-amateur/pro

www.internationalkarateacademy.com

voted Best Karate School in Best of the Press Reader’s Choice Awards!

L oggi Int. Navone K aravackas fight fitness personal training small group

& personal training

fitness training using martial arts

20

baby parade in the world.

Children from infants to ten years old are rolled down the Boardwalk in decorated go carts and small floats. To enter, call (609) 525-9300.

The Twins Contest is held on August 12 following the Baby Parade.

It begins 6:30pm in front of the Music Pier, Boardwalk and Moorlyn Terrace. There are prizes for twins who look the most and least alike in various age groups from babies to adults. It’s a grand night for seeing double.

Entry is free.

Weird Contest Week (Wacky But Not Tacky) is another event that has received much publicity.

It was just named one of the ten most unusual events in the country by an international internet news company. It’s held from August 16-20, with one contest daily starting 11am at the Music Pier. Entry is free and there are categories for all ages. On Monday, it’s Taffy Sculpting. Produce a work of art from salt water taffy.

4

5

Tuesday is French Fry Sculpting.

Wednesday is That’s the Way the Cookie Crumbles, chew a huge cookie into something glamorous. Thursday is Clip Art, make something from paper clips. Friday is Miss and Mr. Miscellaneous, show us your hidden talent plus Little Miss Chaos and Little Mr. Chaos – children are supplied pots and pans, etc. and encouraged to make as much noise as possible in two minutes.

Two pageants of importance, Miss Ocean City at 8pm, August 14 at the Music Pier and Little Miss Ocean City, August 20 at 7pm also at the Pier. The two young ladies selected represent the community at many special events. For information, call (609) 5259300.

All the great free entertainment plus the reasonably priced paid shows that we provide throughout August and the year. Access www. ocnj.us for a complete list or call (609) 525-9300.

6 7

uF c l t i m a t e

i t n e s s

l u b

Ocean City

ocnjmagazine.com

Ocean City Arts Center Luncheon July 7, Greate Bay Country Club

Angela Crippen, Laurie Howey, Mary McGuckin, Leslie Ross

Jeff Shirk, Richard Stanislaw, John Shirk

Lance Balderson, Christina Lowenstein

Fred Miller, Jean Jacobson, Sylvia Bertini

Wendy Moyle, Karen Pratz, Lisa Rumer

Rody O’Rourke, Paula Angelo, Sonya Bertini, Meryl Cool and Erin Collins

ocnjmagazine.com

Ocean City

21

23

30

22

29

•Weird Week, 11am-1pm Music Pier

9

2

16

8

M

15

•David Pendleton, Ventriloquist, 7pm Tabernacle

1

•Joe M. Turner Magic Show, 7pm, Tabernacle

S

31

•Mummer’s Night on the Boardwalk, 7-9pm •Beach Walks Southend, 9am/ Northend, 6:30pm

24

•Mummer’s Night on the Boardwalk, 7-9pm •Beach Walks Southend, 9am/ Northend, 6:30pm •Family Film & Fun Night, 7:15pm Stainton’s Square

•Mummer’s Night on the Boardwalk, 7-9pm •Beach Walks Southend, 9am/ Northend, 6:30pm •Family Film & Fun Night, 7:15pm Stainton’s Square •Weird Week, 11am-1pm Music Pier 17

•Mummer’s Night on the Boardwalk, 7-9pm •Beach Walks Southend, 9am/Northend, 6:30pm •Pamper Scamper, 9am reg.

9:30 start 6th St. Beach •FUNtastic Tuesdays, 10am1pm, Asbury Ave 10

•FUNtastic Tuesdays, 10am1pm, Asbury Ave •Mummer’s Night on the Boardwalk, 7-9pm •Beach Walks Southend, 9am/Northend, 6:30pm •Family Film & Fun Night, 7:15pm Stainton’s Square 3

T

19

18

26

13

6

•Seashore Story Hour, 10-10:30am OCFPL •Toddler Time, 11-11:30am OCFPL

27

•Little Miss Ocean City Pageant, 7pm Music Pier •Weird Week, 11am-1pm Music Pier •Seashore Story Hour, 10-10:30am OCFPL •Toddler Time, 11-11:30am OCFPL 20

•Seashore Story Hour, 10-10:30am OCFPL •Toddler Time, 11-11:30am OCFPL

•Seashore Story Hour, 10-10:30am OCFPL •Toddler Time, 11-11:30am OCFPL

F

S

7

*dates and times are subject to change, please confirm before you head out!

28

•Eastern Surfing Assoc. Surf Contest, 7am reg. 8am-Noon 7th St. Beach •OCTC’s The Magic of Broadway, 2pm & 7:30pm Music Pier

21

14

•Miss Ocean City Pageant, 8pm Music Pier

For more information and details on all events, visit www.ocnj.us or call (609) 525-9300

25

•Market Days, 10am-1pm •Family Nights, 7:30-9:30pm

•Market Days, 10am-1pm •Family Nights, 7:30-9:30pm •Weird Week, 11am-1pm Music Pier

•Beach Walks Northend, 9am/ Southend, 6:30pm •Evenings Along Asbury, 5pm •Weird Week, 11am-1pm Music Pier •OCHM Wednesday for Kids, 10:30am, 11:30am, 1pm

•Beach Walks Northend, 9am/ Southend, 6:30pm •Evenings Along Asbury, 5pm •OCHM Wednesday for Kids, 10:30am, 11:30am, 1pm

12

•Market Days, 10am-1pm •Family Nights, 7:30-9:30pm •Twins Contest, 6pm Music Pier •101st Annual Baby Parade, 10:15am Boardwalk

11

•Evenings Along Asbury, 5pm •Beach Walks Northend, 9am/Southend, 6:30pm •OCHM Wednesday for Kids, 10:30am, 11:30am, 1pm

•Market Days, 10am-1pm •Family Nights, 7:30-9:30pm

•Beach Walks Northend, 9am/ Southend, 6:30pm •Sand Sculpting Contest, 9am at 6th Street Beach •OCHM Wednesday for Kids, 10:30am, 11:30am, 1pm •Evenings Along Asbury, 5pm •Miss Crustacean & Hermit Crab Races, 1pm 6th St. Beach 4

5

T

W

august kiddiecity

Want to look 10 pounds lighter and 10 years younger?

(We’ll let you in on the secret)

buy bras for your body type Come in to Gabrielle & Co. today for a professional bra fitting and leave looking great and feeling fabulous.

810 Asbury Avenue, Ocean City • www.gabrielleandco.com • 609-399-1008

Around the Island Market Days in the Downtown

Hope, David and Jill Brandeis and James, Alec and Stephanie Austin

Ocean

june20

Only

$2!

10

City maga

zine

Re W e estka u ra nt

June 20-2 7

Shop ping• Dining• Events •Hist ory

and M ore in Amer ica’s Gr eatest Family Resort

Only $20!

Stay in the salt spray all year long with a subscription to ...

Ocean City magazine

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

plus tax

ocnjmagazine.com

Ocean City

25

Shopping BEING SURROUNDED by beautiful things is not so rare when you spend some time browsing the boutiques all around the island of Ocean City. Best part? You can take them home. Ahhh, shopping – we love you. Find out what owners Drew Pessano and Katie Ball love on the next few pages and see what Stef’s sought out to stay cool this month in her Must Haves.

HOBIE CAT RIDES FROM BAY CATS I’VE SAID it before, but here goes again. I am a scaredy cat. The (very) distant cousin of the cool cat. So when Don Pussehl, owner of Bay Cats asked me to walk down the steep ramp and hop on to the Hobie Cat sailboat I immediately exclaimed, “I’m not!”

And sounded just like my two-year-old son Finn. I’m not proud, people. But Don, who is the epitome of calm and collected, said, “Yes, you are. We don’t do scared here.”

And for some reason, it worked. Off came the green Havaianas flips and down the ramp I went. Slowly. As I stepped onto the Hobie Cat I realized how much fun a ride would be. You can take up to five adults and a couple kids. USCG licensed Captain Bill Stuempfig takes you out for a cruise, and all you have to do is sit back and enjoy.

There’s even built -in coolers to keep your beverages icy. $150 for an hour and a half ride. 316 Bay Avenue, Ocean City, (609) 391-7960.

See more of Stef’s Must Haves on page 29.

ocnjmagazine.com

Ocean City

27

accent gallery

Accent Gallery continues our tradition of celebrating hand-made American crafts and fine art.

Original Local Art American Crafts Custom Framing Delivery and Installation In-home Consultations

28

956 Asbury Avenue Ocean City, NJ 08226 609-398-3577 www.accentgallery.com

Ocean City

ocnjmagazine.com

Stef’s Must Haves want. That was before I took a kayak trip of the back bays. Now I can’t believe it’s not mandatory to own one if you live within five or so miles of water. Kayaks like these are self-bailing (which means they won’t fill with water,) stable and perfect for the ocean. A ride on one is at once intimately serene, adventurous and smooth. Now Shawndie, you’ll have to get one, it might just be mandatory someday. Prices vary. 625 Asbury Avenue, (609) 938-0175.

Applesauce from Momma’s Homemade One taste of this yummy treat from mother and daughter owners Daisy and Jaconda (in photo) and you’ll be hooked. I tasted it and two weeks later couldn’t get it out of my brain. It was just like eating a cinnamony apple pie without the guilt.

It’s all natural too. Momma’s Homemade is at the Farmer’s Market every Wednesday in August.

Get there and get several jars. You’ll want to be saucy all winter long. $5.99 & $10.99. Tabernacle grounds every Wednesday 8am-1pm.

Lemon squares from Who’s On First It takes a serious amount of will power to walk up to the counter of Who’s On First and not get one of their scones or other treats. They just look so good and I swear I heard one of them actually call to me and say, “I’m good for you, go for it.”

It was probably coconut chocolate scone. She’s pretty outspoken. Anyhoo, the lemon squares are a perfect accompaniment to any of the drinks served at the coffee bar and will keep you cool on a warm day. Just don’t tell coconut scone. $3. 100 Asbury Avenue, (609) 399-0764.

Kayaks from Harbor Outfitters At first when my friend Shawnda mentioned she wanted a kayak, I thought it was a bit of an extravagant thing to

Sherbet cups from The Gingham Whale I love shops with personality. Ones that you can tell when the owner has good taste or a sense of humor. At Gingham Whale, owner Carol definitely has both. In spades. Her second story shop is darling with pieces to fit any shopper’s style whether country, preppy or in between. On my last visit, I first fell in love with a frog statue outside that was lying down and dressed in a bathing suit. I knew I was in for a treat. And what did I find, but the perfect treat holder. These fabulous green sherbet cups are made of ribbed depression glass and are amazing. They will look fabulous in a display cupboard or on your table when you use them for serving dessert. $36 for a set of 12. 636 Asbury Avenue, (609) 391-0996.

Lemon and lime juicers from Kitchen Connection In my kitchen, up in the corner cabinet on the second shelf sits my juicer. There it sits, taking up a bunch of space. My juicer is old-school with the coned top and screw on glass bottom. How things have changed. These supercute juicers are the new rage thanks to the many celeb chefs using them. The design is quite simple, yet brilliant.

With a squeeze of the handles, juice (not seeds) comes out into whatever container you wish it to go. So instead of having to unscrew a top, and re-

move seeds from the juice, you just have to pop it open, ditch the rind and rinse. Plus how can you resist those fabulous colors? You cannot. $12.95.

701 Asbury Avenue, (609) 398-4111.

Cooling foot scrub from Little Egg Harbor Soap Company Some people are into cars, some people like to travel. I like soap. Okay, I like other things too, but ever since I walked into this shop about six years or so ago, I’ve been hooked. Owner Kathy Notaro hand makes all her soap including this one, meant to keep your feet cool and soothed. Her products are vegan, meaning they contain no animal by-products. It’s a good thing, believe me. Beyond their natural ingredients the soaps are just so wonderful in both scent and texture. Creamy, frothy and clean – each one will leave your skin smooth and fresh. Keep this bar in the shower and use it for a refreshing foot scrub each time you bathe. Your feet deserve it! 232 Route 9 South, Marmora, (609) 390-9500.

Glass bowl from the Fine Arts League Whenever I visit new places, I love to take home something out of the ordinary. That way, I’ll always be reminded of the place whenever I happen to glance upon it. When I passed by the Fine Arts League a couple weeks back and saw this whimsical bowl in the window, I knew that this would be that something I’d bring home if I was here on vacay.

It’s a piece of art that’s hand painted by artist Jane Costanza. The 10-inch square glass bowl is food safe and ready to sit out on your table and remind you of the wonderful time you had in Ocean City. $80. 608 Asbury Avenue, (609) 814-0308.

it’ s getting hot in here

In the Biz

W

Drew Pessano PESSANO’S VARIET Y STORE

Amanda Strube gets up close and personal with Pessano’s leader

hat started as a pharmacy by his grandparents in the ‘40s has now turned into a wellestablished variety store. Drew Pessano now owns two very successful variety stores, one in downtown Ocean City and one on the Boardwalk. Selling everything from sticker books to Frisbees, beach chairs and beach toys, Pessano’s Variety Store offers anything you can imagine all in one very fun store.

OCmag: You just opened a new store, right?

Drew: Yes, I have one store on Third Street and our new one is on the Boardwalk.

OCmag: How long have you owned the variety store?

Drew: I’ve owned the one on Third Street for 10 years. I opened the one on the Boardwalk on my tenth summer, but it’s been in my family for 64 years. My grandpa, who was a pharmacist, started the one on Third Street with my grandma.

They actually had a store on the Boardwalk also. In the ‘60s, my dad took over the one on the Boardwalk and my mom was running the Third Street location. My dad left the Boardwalk shop in ’85 and helped my mom run the Third Street one until 2000. By then I graduated college and took over.

OCmag: What is the most popular thing you’ve been selling?

Drew: The same thing as everybody else. Silly bands. But also Waboba balls – it’s a ball that skips like a rock on water.

A lot of Phillies things have been selling also.

OCmag: What’s your favorite thing in the shop?

Drew: I’m big in the beach chair business. I think I have one of the best selections on the island, so I’m kind of into that whole scene. I’m excited about selling the Hex Bug too, which is a little battery-operated bug that scurries around the floor.

OCmag: Why do you like working in Ocean City?

Drew: I like the whole seasonal thing; work hard for six months then relax for six months. I grew up here so it’s cool to

Try our Hand Made line - Soaps, Lotions, Exfoliants, Redux Facial Care, Body Butters, Hair Care and more. All available in your favorite scents.

Upcoming EvEnts

aUgUst 7 & 8 - 48th annual stone Harbor art & craft show, stone Harbor Recreation Field, 80th & 1st street 232 S. Shore Road, Marmora, 609-390-9500 62 Village Greene, H-2, Smithville, 609-652-9300

www.littleeggharborsoap.com 30

Ocean City

ocnjmagazine.com

work in the town where I grew up.

OCmag: Where did you go to high school?

Drew: Holy Spirit.

OCmag: What’s the most played song on your iPod? Drew: I like a lot of Beatles stuff, so I would have to say anything Beatles.

OCmag: What do you like to do when you’re not working?

Drew: I like to travel, I go to a lot of different shows and also I play a lot of golf.

OCmag: What’s your favorite place to travel?

Drew: I like Mexico – the Riviera Maya especially.

OCmag: Where do you like to play golf?

Drew: The most favorite course I ever played was called Poipu Bay in Koloa, Hawaii.

OCmag: What’s the best thing about owning your own business?

Drew: I don’t have to work for anyone else, you know? It’s independence – that’s the best part. I really never had to work for anybody.

OCmag: What is your favorite holiday?

Drew: I’d have to say Labor Day because it’s the end of the season.

OCmag: Okay, this is a weird question, but if you could be any animal in the world what would you be?

Drew: I wasn’t expecting these kinds of

questions, but I guess I would be a monkey so I could climb trees.

OCmag: If you could go grab a bite right now on the Boards, what would you pick?

Drew: It would have to be Johnson’s Popcorn.

Drew Pessano is the third generation in his family to helm the Ocean City variety shop Photo by Amanda Strube

Shore True Value hardware Get into the Grill Zone • South Jersey’s largest full-line Weber dealer • Grilling accessories • Free professional assembly • Delivery available - Removal of old grill

515 New Road, Somers Point, (609)-927-6464 ocnjmagazine.com

StoRe houRS, M-F 8-7, Sat 8-6, Sunday 8-4

Ocean City

31

Th e Shopp in g Guid e In need of a little retail therapy?

Consult this guide before hitting the streets DOWNTOWN

PHONES WE R WIRELESS Your local premium Verizon Wireless Retailer.

Great selection and customer service. 641 Asbury, 545-8731.

ANTIQUES & COLLECTIBLES THE GINGHAM WHALE Antiques, Shore Things and a lot more. 636 Asbury, 391-0996. See ad page 35.

ART GALLERIES ACCENT GALLERY Gorgeous pieces of art to make your home look fabulous. 956 Asbury, 3983577. See ad page 28.

FINE ARTS LEAGUE Lovely art for sale, artist shows, and classes.

608 Asbury, 814-0308.

BICYCLES ANNARELLI’S BICYCLES A huge selection of bikes; repairs. 1014 Asbury, 399-2238.

BOOKS/CDS/OFFICE SUN ROSE WORDS & MUSIC Your best source for books, music, CDs and office supplies.

756 Asbury, 399-9190.

CANDY LAURA’S FUDGE A very sweet treat, made with the finest ingredients. 935 Asbury, 3990616.

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

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

P. FRANCIS Heirloom-quality gifts and more. Mariposa. 733 Asbury, 399-5570.

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

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

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

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

POTOMAC BEAD COMPANY Amazing selection of beads for do-it-yourself stringing or have it finished for you. 910 Asbury, 3994400. See ad page 34.

FLORIST SPINNING WHEEL, 858 Asbury, 398-1157.

DOODLES 714 Asbury, 398-1226.

LADIES APPAREL FLYING CARP

CLOTHING

GALLERY Comfort, quality, timeless design. 745 Asbury, 391-1546.

GABRIELLE & CO. A fabulous collection of beautiful things from around the globe. 810 Asbury, 3991008. See ad page 24.

LA BOTTINE BOUTIQUE Stylish shoes, accessories, jewelry, home accents. 1033 Asbury, 399-6400. See ad page 35.

COULD BE YOURS Consigned collection of name brand clothing at low prices. 716 Asbury, 703-4457.

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

COLETTE 900 Asbury, 525-0911.

DONNA GAY DILLON BOUTIQUE 725 Asbury, 399-0082.

PAPPAGALLO 744 Asbury, 3984009.

SOMETHING OLD SOMETHING

Ocean city

Subscribe to

Through the eyes of an artist

Ocean City

$20 plus tax for six issues

Stay in touch throughout the year with your favorite shore town www.ocnjmagazine.com

Marie natale

mariedezines@comcast.net (609) 399-7628 - www.marienatale.com For classes, workshops, commissions call marie (609)-214-9905 32

Ocean City

ocnjmagazine.com

NEW BRIDAL SHOPPE Asbury, 399-9340.

BEAUTY LINDSY JAMES Asbury, 525-9900.

1020

SALON, 945

SURF/WATER SPORTS/ ATHLETIC WEAR HARBOR OUTFITTERS Asbury, 938-0175.

625

SNEAKER SHOP 846 Asbury, 3915223.

VARIETY STORE & BEACH ITEMS HOYS 5 & 10, 7th & Asbury, 398HOYS. ISLAND BEACH GEAR 9th & Bay, 788-3836.

THINGS TO DO DOWNTOWN GILLIAN’S, 838B Asbury, 391-0060.

GLAZED OVER Make your own pottery. Great for kids and adults.

854 Asbury, 398-8880.

KIDZ CREATIONS, 811 Asbury, 3999922.

BOARDWALK

RENTALS SURF BUGGY CENTERS Two locations; 8th & 12th and Boardwalk.

Cribs, strollers, TVs, coolers, bikes (and more). 976-5679.

JEWELRY JEWELRY HUT Great owners, superior jewelry. Sunglasses too.

1308 Boardwalk, 399-9634.

HENRY’S OC’s Landmark Jeweler.

1236 Boardwalk, (800) 214-4435.

FASHION THE SPOT BY JILLY’S Style, attitude, vintage tees, sunglasses and great brands. 762 and 1066 Boardwalk, 385-1234.

DOLLAR STORE JILLY’S $1 STORE One dollar! 1044 Boardwalk, 399-1234.

T-SHIRTS JILLY’S T-SHIRT FACTORY Get your Phillies at Jilly’s, personalized tees too. 936 and 1048 Boardwalk, 385-1234.

SWEETS AND TREATS SHRIVER’S SALT WATER TAFFY An Ocean City icon. Salt water taffy, fudge, candy. 9th and Boardwalk, 399-0100. See ad page 8.

SHRIVER’S GELATO Only gelato store on Boards. 9th and Boardwalk, 399-0100. See ad page 8.

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

ocnjmagazine.com

JOHNSON’S POPCORN An Ocean City classic. A great gift too. 1368 Boardwalk, (800) 8422676.

FRALINGER’S SALT WATER TAFFY Fresh ingredients made to strict quality standards. 1100 Boardwalk, 399-2202.

AIR TOYS/PIRATE SWAG AIR CIRCUS Kites, flags, air toys, more. 1114 Boardwalk, 399-9343.

See ad page 26.

PIRATES ARRRGH US! Everything for the buccaneer in you. 1116 Boardwalk, 399-9343.

See ad page 26.

SURF SHOP/SUNGLASSES

BY THE SEA SURF SHOP Sun, Sand, Surf lessons. 850 Boardwalk, 398-0159.

SUNGLASS MENAGERIE Name brands, sunglasses for every budget. 1124 Boardwalk, 3918000.

VARIETY STORE PESSANO’S VARIETY STORE Everything you need is here.

3rd and Atlantic and 11th and Boardwalk, 399-1889.

GIFTS SILVER LINING AND NAME

STATION Everyone finds something they like. Bracelets from Name Station. 930 Boardwalk, 398-4918.

WEST AVENUE

INTERNATIONAL AZUL COAST International food market. Mexican, Italian, Asian and more. Coffee, internet. 214 West Avenue, 398-4526.

FURNITURE HANDPAINTED FURNITURE AND DESIGN STUDIO Beautiful furniture and superior home items.

628 West Avenue, 398-5661.

ON THE WAY TO OC

BIKES TUCKAHOE BIKE SHOP Modern bikes, Old-fashioned service. 2151 Route 50, Tuckahoe, 628-0101.

LITTLE EGG HARBOR SOAP COMPANY Hand-crafted soaps, lotions, hair/skin care. Only soap we’ll use. 232 S. Shore Road, Marmora, 390-9500. See ad page 30.

SHORE TRUE VALUE HARDWARE Tons of stuff you need and want. We love this place. 515 New Road, Somers Point, (609) 927-6464. See ad page 31.

p Nature Tours p Kayak Rentals p Hobie Cat Rentals p Sailing Lessons p Hobie Cat Rides/Sales

Ocean City

33

Trends

H

Katie Ball LAURA’S FUDGE

Amanda Strube discovers chocolate-covered bacon and key-lime-pie fudge

AVE you ever been eating bacon and thought to yourself... “this should be dipped in chocolate?”

Of course you have! You’ll find chocolate-covered bacon and other delish homemade treats at Laura’s Fudge. We sat down a couple weeks ago with Katie Ball, who owns the candy shop with her brother John to find out the latest in confections.

OCmag: Who is Laura?

Katie: There was a woman named Laura who started the business in 1926. So the shop was originally named after her.

My brother John and I bought it about five years ago.

OCmag: I heard you have chocolate-covered bacon?

Katie: There was a special on the Food Network at our Wildwood location. They asked us to dip bacon in the chocolate and we took off with it.

OCmag: Where are the shops?

Katie: We have three locations in Ocean City: 935 Asbury, 1136 Boardwalk and 34th and West.

OCmag: That’s great, but back to the chocolate-covered bacon… is it popular?

Katie: Yes it’s popular. Mostly people just like to try it.

OCmag: Have you tried it?

Katie: Yes I have. It’s that salty

sweet taste, so if you like that it’s pretty good.

OCmag: Is the shop open year round?

Katie: Our Asbury Avenue location is. The ones on West and Boardwalk are just seasonal.

OCmag: How many different flavors of fudge do you have?

Katie: We have 19 and then we usually do a special flavor once a week.

OCmag: Do you ship your fudge to different places?

Katie: Yes we do. We get a lot of orders around Christmas and other holidays.

OCmag: Where is the farthest place you’ve shipped?

Katie: Overseas for service members.

OCmag: What fudge do you like best?

Katie: Vanilla peanut butter, but I also really like the Snickers.

OCmag: Oh that sounds good.

What’s in the Snickers?

Katie: It’s caramel, chocolate and peanuts.

OCmag: What else do you sell besides fudge?

Katie: We have truffles and salt water taffy too.

OCmag: Anything else unusual like the bacon?

Katie: We try different specials, but mostly just with the fudge.

Right now we have a special fudge called key lime pie. It has

added space self storage 532 Route 9 South, Marmora, NJ 609-390-5881

www.addedspace.net

email:addedspace523@aol.com

A secure clean dry facility offering 24/7 controlled access, on-site management and affordable prices!

•Moving/packing supplies •On-site U-Haul truck/trailer rentals - 609-390-8925

34

Ocean City

ocnjmagazine.com

Trends lime and lemon zest in it.

OCmag: What’s your favorite part about owning a business in Ocean City?

Katie: John and I both grew up down here so to own a business in the same town we grew up. We enjoy getting to know the locals and other business owners.

OCmag: Where do you like to go to get away from it all?

Katie: I don’t have much time to just get away, but when I do I like to be out on the water, usually in the boat.

OCmag: Is it true that all your chocolate is made in house?

Katie: Yes! We do it all right here.

OCmag: Do you get any odd requests from people?

Katie: Sometimes we do.

Normally people have tried a

The Gingham Whale

special before and would just like to try it again.

OCmag: Do you have any pets?

Katie: I have a dog. Her name is Cassie and she’s a chihuahua.

OCmag: If you could go anywhere in the world, where would you go?

Katie: I’ve always wanted to go to Cape Town, South Africa.

OCmag: I’ve always wanted to go there too. I want to go cage diving with the sharks.

Katie: I don’t know if I’m that brave.

OCmag: What’s your favorite song right now?

Katie: I like country music and we always have Pandora on with Tom Petty or Jack Johnson.

OCmag: I love Tom Petty!

Katie: I do too. I’m actually going to his concert this month.

Antiques Shore Things Folk Art Furniture Country Cottage Gifts

Laura’s Fudge owner Katie Ball stands next to a yummy looking display of homemade chocolates. Photo by Amanda Strube

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

Jersey Girl Jewelry Franco Sarto Chinese Laundry Latico Bags Sacha Too

Stylish Shoes Accessories Jewelry Home Accents

636 Asbury Ave. Ocean City 609-391-0996

ocnjmagazine.com

Ocean City

35

Surfin’ Safari!

Let’s Go Surfin’ Now, Everybody’s Learnin’ How, Come On & Safari With Me...

By Bill Godfrey Photos By Eric Weeks

I

N THE days of the ancient kings, when King Kamehameha lorded over Ocean City, the brave men of the Hui Nalu rode hardwood surfboards – alaia – through the breaking swell off Seventh Street beach wearing little more than loincloths.

Surfboard riding was an ingrained part of Ocean City culture for centuries and when John Peck first arrived on the beaches, he was fascinated by the slim and muscular Ocean City-ites riding the waves, as noted in his logbook…

The Ocean City-ites most common diversion is upon the water, where the sea and surf break on the shore. The men lay themselves upon a flat piece of wood about twice their size; keeping their legs close together and using their arms to guide the plank. They wait until the time of the greatest swell and then push forward with their arms to keep on its top. It sends them in with a most astonishing velocity – the great art is to guide the plank so as always to keep it in a proper direction on the top of the swell and direct it to avoid any obstacles.

Maybe that’s not exactly how surfing was born in OC, but it sure makes a good story. As far as I can tell, surfing first hit the beaches of Ocean City in the early 1960s.

The city and its inhabitants were never the same.

Trying t o describe t h e impact o f surfing in Ocean City is like trying to describe the impact of baseball on America – it’s an incredibly broad topic.

Many locals have built their lives around surfing, embracing careers that allow them the luxury of ditching work whenever the surf is pumping. For some, surfing defines their lives, chooses their friends for them and shapes the way they see the world. For others it’s a later-in-life hobby that’s now a passion. Anyway you look at it, surfing – the Sport of Kings – is nothing short of a religion for its most ardent followers.

I’ve always wanted to surf. It looks like such a great sport. Time spent in the water with the sun on your face, the fabled buzz of catching a wave, the cool guitar music, great movies like Endless Summer and Point Break, and the Atlas-like shoulders I would have from all that time paddling – that sounds pretty cool. But despite years spent on the beach I never learned to surf.

Until now.

I called up my friend Don Milora who owns By the Sea Surf Shop on the Boardwalk at Ninth Street and I said, “I want to learn to surf.” And he said, “Come on down.”

Now, I didn’t want to learn to surf on my own, so I needed somebody to accompany me. Luckily, my friends Dave from Hula Restaurant on the Boards, Reds from Red’s

Jersey-Mex at 11th and Haven, and Jay from Jay’s Crabshack on Asbury Avenue liked my story idea and asked some of the girls who work for them to go with me.

“For those who’ve never surfed before our surf lessons are an introduction to the ocean and to waves and riding waves,” said Don. “All our lessons are two hours and are private or semi-private. It’s always a small instructor-to-student ratio and instructors are with you all the time.”

I’m glad I called Don, because that’s what I was looking for – somebody who would spend some time with me to make sure I got off on the right foot. And since Don’s lessons are all private or semi-private, you’re not lumped in with a bunch of different people. If you want to learn to surf with your brother, or your dad, or your cousins, it’s just you and them. No strangers in the group.

Surfing has a long tradition in Ocean City and many people consider Ocean City to be the capital of New Jersey surfing. The waves are usually pretty consistent and safe in Ocean City (I say usually because the ocean is an unpredictable entity). The beaches are fairly flat and gradually sloped which means the waves break cleanly, and there are very few potential hazards in and around the water (but watch out for the jetties and outfall pipes).

My crew and I all met up at Don’s shop.

Don picked out boards for us, everybody introduced themselves, we received some brief, pre-beach instructions and off we went. It was me; our other instructor Chris Trabbold; Kelly Unger, one of the famous servers from Red’s, who’s an experienced

surfer but came along anyway; Jamie Slate, a South Philadelphia girl who’s also an experienced surfer; Catherine Boljen, a local girl who works at Hula Restaurant and was a true novice surfer; and Bryn O’Neill from Jay’s Crabshack, also a novice surfer.

The sun was bright as we walked along the beach. My head was filled with surf dreams and the sounds of the Beach Boys wafted gently overhead.

We picked a good spot away from the real surfers and Don gave us a dry run. He had us lie on our boards on the sand and talked about finding the right balance spot.

Surfing, as you could guess, is all about balance. You need balance to paddle out, and balance to actually catch a wave. If you’re too far right or left, you’ll fall off. Too far forward and you’ll take a nose dive over your board, an unfortunate event known as “pearling.”

And then it was time to hit the waves.

The water was warm, but a bit rough.

“The waves always look smaller from the beach,” said Don. “They’re always bigger once you get out in the water.”

Uh, yeah, that’s true.

Don was using some surfing lingo to describe the waves, saying they were “dumping.” I think that meant that the waves were just crashing down on themselves instead or gently breaking to the left or right. Did I mention they were big too?

“There’s a lot of water moving out here,” said Don. And he wasn’t kidding. For a first lesson, it was a lot of work in the water. The waves were quite large and were coming right

after another.

But my all-girl crew was not intimidated.

“It was so fun,” said Catherine.

“I never surfed before in my life, but I was able to get up a bunch of times.”

So here I am thinking “oh Left: A triumphant arm raise as Bryn O’Neill gets up on her board. those poor girls Center: The crew heads out into the sea. Above: A priceless reaction by Catherine Boljen as she rides in a wave are going to get pummeled” and aware of our surroundings. Were we to they’re up riding the waves within minutes. go head over heels, he suggested waiting I was totally worked within minutes. We a moment to pop up since a surfboard were surfing after 5pm, after the lifeguards following you is more dangerous than a had gone for the day. Let me say that it’s surfboard in front of you. But as I said, the not a good idea to go into the water after girls did great.

5pm unless you’re an experienced surfer or “It was a little rough for beginners,” said with an experienced instructor like Don. If Kelly. “But it looked like everybody was you’ve ever felt the power of a rip tide, you having a good time and they kept trying. know how scary they can be.

And that’s what surfing is all about. Once “I was a little nervous at first,” said you start you don’t want to stop. Plus Catherine. “I was afraid I might not be able all my friends surf and it’s fun to go with to get up. I would definitely do it again. It your friends. Surfing is a lot of fun.” was really fun.”

After it was all done, I had to admit I We were all riding soft surfboards was pretty stoked. It really was a lot of – foam as opposed to the harder (and fun. I didn’t run out and buy a brand new more dangerous) fiberglass boards. surfboard, but I did have the urge to get After just a few minutes in the water, back in the water. Yeah, I’m definitely Don had drilled into us to keep the going to paddle out this week. board facing the sea. A straight board In the words of the immortal will go up and over the waves, but if Kamehameha, “Surfing… Aloha Au Ia it’s cocked to one side, it’s going to ‘Oe.” slam into you. We all took that lesson For more about learning to surf with Don to heart. Don also advised us to be at By the Sea Surf Shop, call 398-0159.

The Candy Man Photos and Text

By Bill Godfrey

A

S I strolled through Shriver’s Salt Water Taffy and Fudge (known to almost everyone simply as “Shriver’s”) one fine summer afternoon, I noticed a gentleman consulting a piece of paper as he walked the aisles. He looked up to see me looking at him and without me asking, he offered what he was doing.

“Shopping at Shriver’s requires a list,” he told me. “Everybody has a favorite here. I’m making sure I don’t miss anybody.”

That statement says it all about Shriver’s – “everybody has a favorite.” Everybody loves Shriver’s. I mean, it’s candy and chocolate and salt water taffy and candy and chocolate and gelato – what’s not to love?

The only problem with Shriver’s is trying to decide which item you want to take home with you, although that’s the kind of problem I’ll deal with anytime.

So in the interest of humanity, I’ve compiled a list of some of my favorite Shriver’s items, with

the help of some of their very helpful employees. I’ve dubbed it the “Shriver’s Nine” since Shriver’s sits at 9th and Boardwalk and because everybody does a top ten list. If you shop Shriver’s with this list in hand, you won’t be paralyzed with sugary excitement every time you walk in the door. Carry this magazine into Shriver’s and let us help you make the most of your Shriver’s experience.

Favorite item number one is…

1. Neapolitan Blownapart Twisted Salt Water Taffy “Since the days of Queen Victoria,” Shriver’s has been making some of the best salt water taffy in the world. It’s in the name for goodness sake. The story of salt water taffy actually begins in Atlantic City when the ocean rolled into a Boardwalk merchant’s cart one hightide night many years ago. The next day, the obviously disgruntled storekeeper remarked that his taffy was “salt water taffy.” The name stuck and we lovers of this chewy treat have been grateful ever since. Shriver’s has been making salt water taffy since, well, since the beginning of time and they have a huge assortment of flavors. But in the interest of picking some favorites, I present to you my favorite, creamsicle. And in the interest of statistical accuracy, I also asked Shriver’s counter girl Meghan Githers her favorite, and it happens to be watermelon. Meryl Vanglove, an owner of Shriver’s, is partial to Shriver’s twisted taffy, which combines multiple flavors in one piece of taffy. “My favorite is Neapolitan Blownapart,” she said. “It combines three of my favorite flavors in one taffy.”

2. Mr. Taffy Stuffed Toy I know, I know, it’s not edible, but this story is a collaborative piece so I’m including favorites from many different people. Shriver’s employee Helen Dmytrenko was busy stocking the shelves with a large assortment of stuffed animals and she couldn’t have been happier with her task. She had a soft spot for the cuddly little creatures

ocnjmagazine.com

in her care and it showed in her smile. Her favorite was the stuffed Mr. Taffy doll, which is cute and cuddly and just as smiley as Helen.

This brings me to my third favorite thing at Shriver’s.

3. The Story of Mr. Taffy A magical tale of how Mr. Taffy came to be.

Mr. Taffy, in case you didn’t know, is the official Shriver’s Left: Flavors abound at Shriver’s Gelato. Above: Fudge anyone? mascot. You can are, of course, hundreds of varieties of see him almost chocolates at Shriver’s including milk everyday in front of the store and he’s chocolate buttercreams, chocolate always on hand for important events covered pretzels, chocolate covered such as the beach opening ceremony salt water taffy, chocolate this and and the Miss New Jersey Pageant. This chocolate that – it’s mind boggling. Go new children’s book, written by Meryl for the dark buttercreams, you won’t Vanglove and illustrated by Anthony be disappointed and you won’t be left Clark, is available at the store and online gazing at their huge variety for hours and is a must for junior Shriver’s lovers. on end.

Let me take a moment to give you “It’s sweet, it’s fruit and I watch them just a little history on Shriver’s. In make them fresh everyday,” said Alex 1898, William F. Shriver Sr. opened a Vaklinska, another Shriver’s counter restaurant, candy and ice cream store girl. “What more could you want?” on the Ocean City Boardwalk. The Well, since you put it that way, I don’t business survived and thrived as the want anything more. Except for item Boardwalk was built and rebuilt after fires and storms. In 1959, four brothers number five. purchased the business and the same family still owns and operates Shriver’s My mom Joan’s favorite and I can see to this day. It’s all about quality at why. You bite into the dark chocolate Shriver’s and its 113 years in business and when the buttercream mixes in a attests to its high standards. moment later, it’s sheer bliss. There

4. Candied Apples

5. Dark ButterCreams

Ocean City

41

6. Chocolate Peanut Butter 8. Whirly Pop Lollipop 9. Chocolate They’ve got classic lollipops, twirling Fudge lollipops, swirling lollipops, lollipops Gelato

Hazelnut

Oh yes, Shriver’s fudge. I can still remember summer days in Ocean City, filled with sun and fun, and when it was time to go home, a box of Shriver’s fudge always went with us. It was like extending our vacation even though we

that look like unicorn horns and even psychedelic lollipops. And the one thing they have in common is their yummy yummy-ness. And don’t forget their famous molasses paddles too. Lollipops are the perfect treat to keep the kids

The folks who work at Shriver’s gelato (it’s a door down from the candy shop) are always nice when I go in. I figured they’re so nice because they’re around gelato all day, and who better to ask for a recommendation than happy gelato

were no longer in Ocean City. I’d savor that fudge for as long as I could and make it last as long as possible. It’s made on the premises in the factory at the back of the store, and is so fresh it just melts in your mouth. Shriver’s has about a gazillion different flavors of fudge, but I’d have to go with the chocolate peanut butter as my favorite, although the rocky road and chocolate raspberry are also very good.

occupied for hours. Helen Dmytrenko recommends the whirly pop, a colorful creation that’s as pretty as it is tasty.

In 2006, Shriver’s opened the Boardwalk’s only gelato store. Shriver’s Gelato is made fresh daily on the premises with fresh fruits and imported Italian ingredients. Gelato is similar to ice cream but contains less butterfat than traditional ice cream. I’m not sure what that means, but I love Shriver’s Gelato.

Shriver’s also makes gelato cakes, which sounds like it might be at my next birthday party. And that means we’ve reached the final chapter in the Shriver’s Nine… favorite Shriver’s item number nine.

girls. Devon Dempsey recommends the chocolate hazelnut. “Tasty, tasty, tasty,” she said. Despina Atanasova thought long about her favorite gelato, but after a few false starts decided to recommend the New York cheesecake.

Now, I know a few of you are disappointed that your favorites didn’t make the list. I could have mentioned the macaroons, or the mint rolls, or their jams and jellies – I could have mentioned a bunch of other items, but I only had room for nine (hence the title Shriver’s Nine). If you’re not happy with this list, well, don’t knock it till you try it. Have any one of the favorites on this list and I doubt you’ll be upset for very long.

7. A Bag of Salted Peanuts Pepitas, cashews, pistachios, hot Bavarian nuts, you name it, Shriver’s has a huge variety of nuts on hand.

(And I don’t mean the employees. Sorry couldn’t resist).

42

Ocean City

ocnjmagazine.com

I

Family Ties

Mayor Jay Gillian made history when elected to lead America’s Greatest Family Resort. Here’s his story.

Photo and text by Bill Godfrey

T’S PRACTICALLY impossible to miss the 140-foot ferris wheel that rises above the Ocean City skyline at Gillian’s Wonderland Pier. Heck, you can see it from the Garden State Parkway. And it’s nearly as impossible to miss Jay Gillian as you travel around Ocean City. If you’ve more than just a passing fancy in the business of Ocean City, then you know who Jay Gillian is. The third generation owner/operator of Gillian’s Wonderland Pier, Jay is now the mayor of Ocean City after being sworn into office in early July. Speaking for myself, it’s seemed a foregone conclusion that Jay would eventually run for office. His father Roy was a councilman in the ‘60s and mayor in the ‘80s and the pair are the first father and son to hold the post in the city’s history. As I said, that’s not too surprising; the Gillians – all of them including Jay’s wife Michele – are well-known for their service in the community, including a great deal of work supporting Shore Memorial Hospital in Somers Point. I wanted to mark the beginning of Jay’s time in office with something that he might be able to look back on, so that he could gauge his progress over his four-year term. I also wanted something a little different from the norm, so I threw in a few questions reminiscent of the Proust questionnaire on the back page of Vanity Fair.

OCmag: Hello Mayor. As of this interview, you’ve been in office less than a week.

What’s it been like?

Mayor Gillian: My first few days have been spent meeting everybody – meeting the team – and luckily I know a lot of them already. I’m getting acquainted with all the policies and procedures and getting the functions down. Until you sit in this seat you don’t realize the responsibilities of the office. And you need to know policies, procedures and everything everyone does. But it’s been fun. The people are great here.

OCmag: Is the city different from running your business?

Mayor Gillian: It’s a little different because I’m coming into something that’s already established. I grew up at Wonderland so I knew the business. But here, I’m observing how everything already works.

It’s a different feeling.

OCmag: What made you decide to run for mayor?

Mayor Gillian: Over the past two years I saw a different kind of philosophy (at City Hall). I wanted to get back to focusing on infrastructure.

With amusements rides, if we don’t take care of them they fall apart. Now, the previous administration did a lot of projects – they did a lot of good things with the community center and that’s great. But I think infrastructure work was lacking. The things I plan on doing might be less noticeable, but I want to look at the entire island from north end to south end. We’ve had a lot of flooding recently; that’s a problem. And I want to make sure the beaches are protected.

And I want to figure something out for Merion Park, because they’ve had problems with flooding there. One of my campaign themes was “unity” so wherever you live in Ocean City, we’re going to treat everyone the same.

OCmag: First father and son team to be mayor in Ocean City...

Mayor Gillian: Yeah, I’d heard that, but I wasn’t sure about it. It’s pretty cool.

OCmag: Any advice from your dad?

Mayor Gillian: He was a little nervous at first when I decided to run because he knows you can’t make everybody happy and you can get beat up. But I have pretty thick skin. But he told me to be myself. And that was my goal. And not being nasty. I wanted to run as me and not be negative. I don’t like nastiness.

You get more done without it.

OCmag: Ever take a break? You seem to be always busy.

Mayor Gillian: I like working – the amusements are fun. And I like staying busy. We have Funland now (in Sea Isle) and the hospital keeps us busy too, but I like that. I like to spend time with Michele too and she helps me out with everything. Of the seven kids we have, six of them are working for us at Wonderland. I like to golf too – get out

house too. It’s where I grew up. Great view, very relaxing. And as I drive to Sea Isle, I realize how beautiful Corson’s Inlet is. It’s like a secret hideout down there.

OCmag: Do you have any heroes?

Mayor Gillian: My mother and father for sure. And also my brother, John, the one I lost when I was a senior in high school.

I really look up to them. John was one of those guys… he was in a band, went to Europe. He was a great guy. He was the best of the four of us. And my poppop. He started his business during the depression and look what he did. I’m very proud of my dad. And I think I may have taken my mom for granted, but she’s amazing.

OCmag: Favorite actor, musician, artist...?

Mayor Gillian: Everybody knows I like Elton John.

When I was little, my brother Jimmy took me to the Rock Garden, which was a little music shop on Asbury Avenue, near where Sack ‘O Subs is. It was one of those “big-brother” moments and we bought the Good Bye Yellow Brick Road album. I can remember it like it was yesterday. We got in Jimmy’s white Camaro and went down. It was the coolest thing in the world. I went home and played that album over and over.

I think because of the circumstances, it’s one of the reasons why I like Elton so much. I actually got to meet Elton twice. Once in Atlantic City and once at Citizen’s Bank Park.

OCmag: Do you have a motto?

Mayor Gillian: Hmm… I don’t know.

Just be kind. We can all be nasty but I’m trying to treat people the best I can. I’m far from being the best at it, but it’s not corny to be nice. You can be nice and get things done.

OCmag: Last question… what quality do you admire in people?

Mayor Gillian: Honesty is the top one.

Dedication. And loyalty. Loyalty is a rarity, and that’s huge.

“I’m trying to treat people the best I can...

You can be nice and get things done.”

Mayor Jay Gillian

44

there with the guys. After the campaign Michele and I went to Disney World. It’s funny, on election night I was going to be like the Super Bowl winners – “We’re going to Disney World!” – but I thought that might have been corny. But I like going down to Disney.

OCmag: I like Disney too.

Mayor Gillian: When Michele and I go there, walking around the park gives me such peace. It’s so relaxing. I love the business, and Disney is its own city, its own government almost. I’ve gone through a lot of their institutions and done a lot of behind-the-scenes with them and it’s amazing what they do. It’s a complex organization but the cleanliness and the nice people put me in a good mood. It makes me want to come back here and do the same thing. I’ve learned a lot from that organization.

OCmag: Favorite spot in Ocean City?

Mayor Gillian: Other than Wonderland, I like being at home. But I love my mom’s

Ocean City

ocnjmagazine.com

Ghost Call Craig McManus seeks the things that go bump in the night Photos and text by Bill Godfrey

A

H, OCEAN City. What a great town. It has everything you need for a terrific vacation.

Great beaches? Check.

Delicious food? Check.

Excellent shopping? Check Ghosts? Check.

Yes, you read that right, ghosts. What’s a vacation without a few stories about things going bump in the night? It’s a vacation that lacks goose bumps is what it is. But fear not (or perhaps you like to be scared) because good old Ocean City, America’s Greatest Family Resort, has a few ghosts hanging around in the shadows, ready to make your blood run cold after the sun goes down. Woooooooohhhoooooooooo…

I took the Ocean City Ghost Tour a while back and was intrigued by the stories I heard. The tours are run by Tim

ocnjmagazine.com

and Eileen Reeser, two ghost hunters who’ve done a lot of research on local spirits. It’s a cool little tour and I recommend you try it while you’re in town. The tours begin at 8pm every night during the summer, but it’s best to call (609) 814-0199 and make an advance reservation. Meet on the corner of 9th and Asbury in front of City Hall and soon you’ll be walking with the spirits of Ocean City’s past.

Now it seems to me that ghosts are folks who passed from this life who just aren’t ready to move along to the next life.

I mean, think about it; I don’t like leaving Ocean City. There’s so much to do here and the ocean is such a calming force in town. Why would anyone want to leave? And that’s why I think there are plenty of ghosts hanging around in Ocean City – they can’t leave the ocean spray and the sandy beaches.

Can’t blame them really.

Ocean City

45

Above: Some say they hear the doors of Council Chambers swinging open late at night. Above right: City Hall where the ghost of a former employee may still reside. Right: Author and psychic medium Craig McManus tunes in to the energy in Council Chambers.

The Ghost Tour explores what are purported to be some of the most haunted sites – probably eight to ten places – in Ocean City. It’s family appropriate and a great way to explore Ocean City and hear the seldom told tales of ghostly encounters. The first stop is City Hall.

Ah yes, City Hall. I’d heard a few whispered stories during my time here, but I never gave those stories much thought. I always wanted to learn more about the ghosts at City Hall since my time on the Ghost Tour, but I never followed through. Until one day I realized that I have a friend who’s a psychic medium! (Yeah, it took me a while to put all the pieces together.)

He’s also a successful writer who has published four books on the ghosts of Cape May. In fact his books are entitled

46

The Ghosts of Cape May. So I called up Craig McManus and asked him to come to Ocean City. He said yes. Then I called the nice folks at City Hall and asked if they would let us in after hours for a quick “reading.” They said yes too. But before we get to what we discovered in City Hall, a little background info on ghosts.

“Ghosts exist, they’ve always been here,” said Craig. “They were once people or animals or some form of living being. We call them

Ocean City

ocnjmagazine.com

‘dead’ because they are no longer like us, but they’ve not stopped ‘living.’

They’ve moved on to another form of existence. Ghosts exist all around us in life, but most of the time they do not interact with us. It’s when they do interact that the fun begins.”

And so we went in search of fun in City Hall on a cold and rainy moonless night.

Gravestones showed us our path and black cats trailed our every step. A lone wolf howled in the distance.

Actually it was a bright summer’s day. Logistics kept us from a midnight séance, so we settled for a quick “surface” reading of City Hall just after it closed with a promise to return on a cold, moonless night if we detected any signs of spirits during our recognizance.

And yes, we’re going back.

We made our way up to the third floor and Craig immediately led us to a back corner of the building, near the administrative offices.

“Someone’s energy is still here, and they’re signing ‘James’ over and over again,” said Craig. “It’s not about the name, it’s about the signature. He’s still attached to the building. And there’s something in his legs – he’s got a problem with his knees maybe, but he has a problem walking.”

Joe Clark is the purchasing manager and has worked for the City of Ocean City for almost 30 years. He’s heard his fare share of disembodied footsteps late at night. He latched onto Craig’s description right away. Joe related stories of being in the building late, late at night, working on various projects and hearing the doors to council chamber swing open and then footsteps shuffle across the floor. Always, there was no one there when he went to investigate.

He thinks he knows who the ghost is that walks the corridors of City Hall.

And Craig’s description seemed to corroborate Joe’s belief. Mind you, Joe and Craig have never met before.

“The person that would sign the most papers – that’s the person I suspect (haunts City Hall). Now I never said it was a ghost, because I have no idea what it

ocnjmagazine.com

is. That person – he was the treasurer at one time – grew old. He could have had problems walking because the story goes that they had to carry him out of here and he died shortly after that. They say his work was his life.”

“He’s not showing me his face, he’s showing me his signature and that means something. He’s still very attached to the building,” said Craig.

“Oh yes,” said Joe. “This guy was attached. The story was he didn’t want to leave. Twenty years ago I would spend late nights here working on specs and things. What I would hear late at night, maybe one or two in the morning was this… (Joe proceeds to open the doors to council chambers and let them swing) – that’s a unique noise. Then we heard footsteps. I never said anything about it. One night I was out with some co-workers and we discovered we’d heard similar things. We all heard the same thing – the doors.”

Craig continued to amaze me as we walked around the building. He made mention of the structures that used to stand behind City Hall (it’s a parking lot now). He knew that the fire and police services were headquartered in the building at one time and he described old stairs that were the way up into City Hall. He mentioned someone named Peggy, the sound of jingling change (back in the day they used a machine to count the parking meter revenue), someone named Harold (or maybe Harry), and a cat.

But it was the resident ghost (or ghosts) that we kept coming back to.

We made our way into the Community Affairs office, in a space now occupied

by Communications Manager Laurie Howey. It seems there’s someone else occupying the office with her.

“Whoever it is, he’s telling me this used to be his office,” said Craig.

This was about the time I saw the goose bumps rise on Laurie’s arms.

“About 10 or 12 years ago I got a call in the middle of the night,” said Joe. “One of the workers who was cleaning up here was outside on the front steps carrying

Ocean City

on about seeing something. What we got from him was that he was mopping the floors outside of chambers and he heard the doors and the footsteps. He looked up and he said an elderly white-haired gentleman walked right through him and he felt a cold presence. He quit on the spot and never came back. I thought for a bit that it might have been Mayor Richardson, who died on his last day of office. But Mayor Richardson was tall and died when he was 49, so it probably wasn’t him. But there was a treasurer here – that’s the person I suspect. He was older and as I said, they had to carry him out of here.

He didn’t want to retire. He died probably 30 years before I got here. I think his last name was Imbessi. He definitely did a lot of signing.”

But why would someone come back to the office?

“The story was that he just wasn’t happy about leaving work,” said Joe. “Well, that could be why he came back,” answered Craig. “If he loved the job so much, that’s why he came back.

Whoever it is also told me that no one is watering the plants.”

Whoever Craig was in contact with was telling him all about other recent events. It seems some office furniture had been recently moved. Laurie was a little shocked (and a little goose bumped) when Craig started relating the various changes in detail.

Unfortunately we could only stay in City Hall for a short time. People were beginning to arrive for a nighttime city council meeting and the increased activity was ruining the quiet Craig likes while working.

“The energy here is good, it’s a friendly presence,” said Craig. “Whoever it is feels like this is his home and he’s watching over it.”

Craig McManus can be reached at craigmcmanus.com. His four books, The Ghosts of Cape May are available at most book stores or at his website. Tim Reeser’s book Ghost Stories of Ocean City, NJ is available at ghosttour.com.

Call (609) 814-0199 for info on the Ocean City Ghost Tour.

47

Sports in OC August ’s Activities Bill Godfrey gets you moving with these sporty happenings JUDO LESSONS AT INTERNATIONAL KARATE ACADEMY International Karate Academy, located at 53 Laurel Drive in Somers Point, is one of the best martial arts training facility in the area. IKA is now offering judo lessons with Giedrius Karavackas, a professional Mixed Martial Artist and world champion judo expert with 20 years experience. Giedrius spent 10 years on the Lithuanian National Judo Team and is a certified professional judo coach. Children and adults are welcome. Training in martial arts is not only great for improving your physical fitness, but it can help reduce stress, build confidence and sharpen your selfdefense skills. Guy Loggi, IKA’s senior

instructor, has been practicing martial arts for over 25 years and is a fourth degree black belt in Ninitsu. He provides a challenging and safe environment to begin your journey or improve your skills and techniques. Fight Fitness classes are also available for those who enjoy “hitting the pads,” but who shy away from the contact associated with sparring. Private training sessions, as well as Tae Kwon Do, Karate, Boxing, and Brazilian Jiu Jitsu classes are also available. A new space has been added – the L.I.N.K. gym – for cardio and strength conditioning. Call Sensei Loggi at (609) 927-7353 for more info and class times.

TOUR DE TUCKAHOE Vive le Tour! Every Saturday morning

www.oceancitytheatrecompany.com

(well, I think it depends on the weather) the riders of the Tour de Tuckahoe meet at the Tuckahoe Train Museum for a friendly and fabulous ride through the back roads of upper Cape May County.

Now, Ocean City may be a beautiful place with wide sandy beaches, but the Tour passes through some truly beautiful rural New Jersey country. The traffic is minimal, even in the summer, and the scenery is stunning. There are four pace groups to choose from, from beginner to expert, depending on your fitness level and there is a designated and experienced leader with each group. Rides distances vary between 30 and 50 miles and new riders are always welcome. The rides begin at 8am in August (9am during the rest of the

Ocean City Theatre Company Michael Hartman, Artistic Director

The Magic of Broadway

The Family Broadway Musical with the Ocean City POPS

Presented by the OCTC Junior Company August 28 at 2:00 and 7:30PM Ocean City Music Pier

August 17-19, 7:30pM

HugHes perforMing Arts center

with the Ocean City Pops September 5,7,& 8, 7:30pm Ocean City Music Pier

FOr TiCkeTs visiT OCNJ.Us/BOxOFFiCe Or CAll 609-525-9248

48

Ocean City

ocnjmagazine.com

Sports in OC year, even February). Arrive 15 minutes early. Parking at the train museum, located on Mt. Pleasant Avenue, is free. To get there, find the Tuckahoe Bike Shop (a sponsor for the Saturday group rides) on Route 50 and turn on the street directly across from the front door. The train museum is at the end of that street. There are also group rides on Tuesday and Thursday nights and Sundays (although the rides don’t always start in Tuckahoe on Sundays).

Helmets are mandatory. When you’re done, head over to Tuckahoe Bike Shop to check out their great selection of bikes. Email Lou at scrapple1@comcast. net for more info, or call Tuckahoe Bikes at (609) 628-0101.

TENNIS Ocean City was made for tennis.

All that sun, the relaxed vibe, people wearing a lot of white – Ocean City is like The All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club – except we have Queen Infanta instead of Queen Elizabeth.

There are 24 tennis courts located on the island. There are eight at the recreation facility at 35th and West Avenue (609) 525-9308; six at 18th & Haven Avenue (609) 525-9307; and 10 at 6th & Atlantic Avenue, including five that are lighted, (609) 525-9306. Reservations must be made in person and there may be fees associated with the courts. The courts open everyday during the summer at 7:30am. There are various tournaments throughout the month of August and one in September and there are nightly clinics and programs during the summer for players of every age and skill level. Visit ocnj.us and click on the recreation tab for more info. The 2010 summer brochure is also available for downloading.

RACES 1. The Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation of America Guts and Glory 5K on August 14. Registration takes place at the Sport & Civic Center Building at 5th and

ocnjmagazine.com

Boardwalk. Entry fee is $20 in advance, and includes a T-shirt. Race day fee is $25 and T-shirts will be available as upplies last. Participants also have the option of gathering sponsors to pledge money. Awards in various age categories. Register on your own or as a team. Go to ccfa.org for more info.

2. Ruth Newman Shapiro Celebration Run on August 28. Starting on 5th Street at the foot of the Boardwalk.

This fast, flat, certified course will head north through the Ocean City Gardens running along the beautiful ocean, turning around and finishing on the Ocean City High School track. Registration starts at 6:30am. The run commences at 8am with the walk immediately following. Entry fees are $20 for adults and $15 for students by August 14. Entry Fees after August 14 and on race day are $25. Go to rnscancerandheartfund.org for more info.

3. Mayor’s Labor Day Race on September 6. This fabulous five-mile beach run is Monday, September 6 at 9am. The 1 mile walk/run will start immediately following.

Pre-registration is $18 and a 20th Annual Race T-shirt will be given to pre-registered runners. Fee is $10 for runners 14 and under and cross-country team members. $20 fee on race day. Registration is at 23rd Street and the beach beginning at 7:30am. Call (609) 525-9317 or e-mail lrumer@ocnj.us or visit www.ocnj.us for more info.

5. The Ocean City Sprint Distance Triathlon Sunday, September 12. This is the second year for this City trisponsored event in America’s Greatest

Ocean City

Family Resort. The .35 miles swim is in the warm and clean waters of one of the most beautiful beaches on the Jersey Shore. The bike is on wide shoulders on a road without intersections with views of the bay. Finally, run a fast and flat course through the neighborhood and finish at the southern most point of Ocean City. There’s also a post-race meal. Go to citytri.com/oceancitytri. htm for more info.

4. Ocean City Half Marathon & 5K on Sunday, October 3. Start times are 9am for the half marathon, 9:15am for the

5K run/walk. Registration fee for the half marathon is $50 until August 31 and $60 September 1 to October 2. No race day registration. 5K registration is $20 until August 31, $25 from September 1 to October 3. First 400 pre-registered runners are guaranteed a race shirt.

A pre-race pasta dinner will be held Saturday, October 2, from 5 to 7:30pm at the Ocean City High School, 501 Atlantic Avenue. Sign up on-line at www.ocnj.us.

49

Game On Ocean City Word Search Find the words in the puzzle below

Z L N B Y C J G S W R A G E W J K U W N O B R A J

50

S C W I E W E A E A F S E I R F H C N E R F N R G

P A P O R R P U X O L F I K E X Y H O A Q H C N R

A R S E A Y F Y E X A T S ‘ O N A S S E P V L S L

H R B M C B L S Z J Z N W M Q U Q F M R W E X U L

V A I W N W T Q J C H K B A B Y P A R A D E A P J

X H K I H J X U Z S L S N E T F G S C C M E Z Y X

V X A G O V Y B N J K W E W I E S T V F G S E R B

A N Y P J V O J G I O U P S I A R Y D N K W C J Z

N I G E .

X M R M T H Q H N R C N T A V V R M Y F

I D O T T T M B N A Q I D G K O G R A W N L H M T

L L B J H E O W S X N U H X K R D U E F F S J J E

L Y L E X A O N U G D C A J J Y W W W G F I Q R R

A E T X R D Y O P X A U L J H L F N S X Y Y E B O

F R K D D B A I X E E A I P Y E M E O E Y K N B H

U R S W Y A E S B L M D S Z V P A Z B D A B I C S

D U E D L R C O M M U N I T Y C E N T E R V H C A

G S R H I I L G S P E S R W D D Z V F X M F S Y E

E P I Y T M E W X Z A R J J B I K E P A T H N Z S

Y T I C N A E C O S S I M U P T A U G U S T U L U

L D S Q G N I F R U S G U N L R B S R Q C R S L P

V I O W I F H R G C J Z P F M S X C Z R R M K S H

B L J U W A P G P O P W X I D B R E R W R J W V K

AUGUST

FISHING PIER

SEASHORE

BABY PARADE

FRENCH FRIES

SKIMBOARDS

BEACH GRASS

HYDRANGEA

SUNSHINE

BIKE PATH

JAY GILLIAN

SURFING

BOGY

MISS OCEAN CITY

SURREY

COMMUNITY CENTER

PESSANO’S

T. JOHN CAREY

DOWNTOWN

SALT WATER TAFFY

VANILLA FUDGE

Ocean City

P N Z C H G F U P A T Q R Z H F Q D D Z I E S P X

P I H N D R C S Q E C W J A Y G I L L I A N K W O

ocnjmagazine.com

Game On Ocean’s 11

Do you know what it takes to be an OC master?

1. What anniversary is this year’s baby parade celebrating?

8. Which hotel in town is reportedly haunted by “Emily?”

2. How many locations does Mack and Manco’s have in OC?

9. Which business at Third and Bay gives parasail rides?

10. What year was the Music Pier built?

3. Ocean City’s streets run from 1st to what number?

11. On what streets will you find public tennis courts?

4. What is the name of the bay between Somers Point and Ocean City?

5. What famous novelist was born and raised in Ocean City?

8. Flanders 7. Laura’s Fudge 6. Beach Patrol

6. Author Fred Miller was once part of which prestigious Ocean City organization?

5. Gay Talese 4. Great Egg Harbor Bay 11. 6th, 18th, & 34th

3. 59th

10. 1928

. Three

9. Bayview Marina

1. 101st

7.Where can you buy chocolate-covered bacon on the Boardwalk?

 

  

ocnjmagazine.com

Ocean City

51

Real Speak 5647 Central Avenue, OC Live the dream with this single family beachfront home LOCATION ON THE ISLAND? In the southend on the beachfront.

HOW MANY BEDROOMS? 6 bedrooms including a master suite with sitting area.

HOW MANY BATHROOMS? 5 full bathrooms and 2 half baths.

SPECIAL FEATURES? This exclusive beachfront single family home brings the dream. There’s an elevator, billiards room and smart home computer technology. The home has cedar siding, gas heat and hot water, public water and sewer, hardwood floors and wall-to-wall carpeting, furnished, security system, gas fireplace, corner lot.

ASKING PRICE? $3,990,000 This one-of-a-kind dream house on the beach in the southend of Ocean City is available for purchase

LISTED BY? BERGER REALTY, Edward “Chip” Collins. (609) 425-1616 cell.

Not just a room... an experience

Experience a vacation haven that artfully combines appealing vintage charm with plentiful modern amenities. ● ● ● ●

Individually Decorated Rooms with Private Baths & Signature Toiletries Complimentary WiFi, Beach Tags & Bathhouse, Parking on Premise Breakfast & Afternoon Refreshments feature fresh, local ingredients Easy walking distance to Beach, Boardwalk, Restaurants, & Shopping

720 Ocean Avenue ∙ Ocean City, NJ 08226 ∙ 800-258-1558 ∙ www.scarboroughinn.com

52

Ocean City

ocnjmagazine.com

Around the Island

Shrivers Salt Water Taffy, Boardwalk and 9th Street

Josh Belner, Jessica Costello, Liz Frankel, Ben Kroft, Becky Taylor, Lisa Meenan, and Thomas Sennett

BERGER REALTY

Ocean City Publisher/Editor/Writer Stef Godfrey Publisher/Advertising Manager/Writer Bill Godfrey

Leon K. Grisbaum

Contributing Writers Laura Kiniry, Fred Miller, Amanda Strube

#1 in ocean city sales and summer rentals

Contributing Artists/Photographers Marie Natale, Eric Weeks, Amanda Strube

3160 Asbury Avenue Ocean City, NJ (888) 399-0076

17th & Boardwalk Ocean City, NJ (888) 579-0095

55th & Haven Ocean City, NJ (800) 399-3484

133 S. Shore Road Marmora, NJ (609) 390-9300

www.bergerrealty.com ocnjmagazine.com

Ocean City magazine is published six times a year. 3,000 copies are distributed all around Ocean City and its surrounding communities.

Cover price is $2. To purchase a copy or get an annual subscription for $20 plus tax, call (609) 675-0867 or www.ocnjmagazine.com

Copies are available at these island locations: Sun Rose Words and Music, La Bottine Boutique, Flying Carp Gift Gallery, Gabrielle & Co., and Laura’s Fudge.

Ocean City

53

Staying Over TAHITI INN

Become one of the family with a stay at this landmark inn WHO ARE THE INNKEEPERS? The Gallelli family which is composed of parents Mario and Antonietta and siblings Franco, Cecilia and Pat. Also involved in the daily operation are Cecilia’s two boys Luciano and Joseph, Pat’s two boys Mario and Carlo and one girl Julianna.

WHEN DID THE INN BEGIN? The Tahiti Inn started in 1973 and the Gallelli family has owned and operated it since 1989.

Before that it was owned by the Frank family.

LOCATION ON THE ISLAND? The Tahiti Inn is ideally located on the beach block at the corners of 12th Street and Ocean Avenue. There are no streets to cross to access the Boardwalk or beach.

HOW MANY ROOMS? Tahiti Inn is comprised of 43 motel rooms and 12 apartments all with free WiFi. The apartments have either 1 or 2 bedrooms with sleeping arrangements for up to 8 people. Each apartment has a complete kitchen and includes all linens with daily maid service.

The Tahiti Inn is owned and operated by the Gallelli family

KID FRIENDLY? PET FRIENDLY? Absolutely kid friendly, family friendly as well as couples friendly! They love pets but unfortunately cannot accept pets at the establishment.

WHY SHOULD I STAY/ WHAT’S SPECIAL ABOUT YOUR PLACE? The cleanliness, service and hospitality along with the repeat customers will make your stay at the Tahiti enjoyable and comfortable. All of their customers are like family -they extend a special thank you to all of them for their loyalty and business!

Over 35 Years In Ocean City!

Property and Lifestyle Management property management

House Cleaning Carpet Cleaning Window Cleaning Power Washing

concierge services

Personal Errands Dry Cleaning & Laundry Grocery Shopping Personal Assistant

625 Bay Ave, OC A Fine Division of Clean Sweep Services (609) 398-6446 “A Complete House Cleaning Service.”

5 Locust Lane, CMCH www.clean-sweep-services.net • cleansweepservices@verizon.net (609) 465-3079

54

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

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

rediscover the Ocean City of your childhood

Ocean City

ocnjmagazine.com

It’s History

Oh Baby Parade!

Fred Miller on the oldest parade in the nation

T

HE Ocean City Baby Parade can be traced back to August 10, 1901 and Ocean City’s First Baby Show.

Except for the years in the early 1900s, the infantile paralysis epidemic of 1916, and the years during the two World Wars, the event has been held every year, making it the longest running baby parade in the country. It’s been held continuously since 1946.

In 1901, Frank E. Darby and Colonel John Glaspell decided what was missing in Ocean City was a way to showcase the many beautiful babies who

lived or summered here. Since Glaspell managed the Casino Pier on the Boardwalk, the men decided the pier would be the perfect place to hold “Ocean City’s First Baby Show.” With the support of other prominent citizens, the Baby Show was advertised. So many inquiries poured in to Colonel Glaspell that he appointed a committee, headquartered at Chalfant’s Pharmacy, to dispense information on the show.

Forty-six babies were entered, with gold medals as prizes given for prettiest, cutest, and fattest baby. Each of the spectators was given one ballot and allowed to vote

for one child in each category.

The judge was Jerry Neill, a member of Philadelphia’s Common Council and a guest at the Strand Hotel. According to Ocean City Daily Reporter, it was “…the greatest attraction that has yet been provided for summer visitors.”

The Baby Show was held annually through 1904. Though it was successful, growing

larger each year, by 1905 those in charge had tired of it, and the Baby Show ended. It was not until 1909 that Leo Bamberger, a summer resident from Philadelphia resurrected the Baby Show as the Ocean City Baby Parade.

Although Bamberger was able to get Lit Brothers and Strawbridge and Clothier, two Philadelphia department

    

 

  



James Edward Johnson holds the reins of his grandson I. Scott Johnson Jr.’s pony before the start of the July 29, 1925 Baby Parade. Ponies were common in the parade. There was usually a separate division for pony carts.  

 





  

   

    



  

ocnjmagazine.com

Ocean City

55

It’s History stores, to donate loving cups for prizes, the 1909 Baby Parade had only a small number of entrants. The children had fun parading down the Boardwalk wearing paper hats, tooting toy horns, and carrying paper flags.

This parade only hinted at the lavish displays the Ocean City

Baby Parade would become!

Within a few years, the Ocean City Baby Show evolved into what it remains today: a baby parade like no other! Ocean City’s Queen Infanta and her Royal Court rule over the parade. At a gala celebration, usually held the evening before

Top: Seven-year-old Stacey Lane Brasberger waved to the huge crowd as she rode down the Boardwalk on her elephant. Right: May McFarland pulled her three-year-old daughter Kay in the August 10, 1921 Baby Parade. Bottom: The August 12, 1946 Baby Parade was part of the biggest one-day celebration in the history of Ocean City, honoring the first anniversary of V-J Day. Opposite page: August 18 was the date of the 1955 Ocean City Baby Parade. Over 200 children were entered.

Mothers, older sisters, or friends accompanied the children.

the parade in the famed Music Pier, the Queen and her Court are crowned. These young women, beautifully dressed, ride down the parade route on an extravagantly decorated float, with Queen Infanta on her throne. Members of the Ocean City Beach Patrol, in uniform, accompany the float down the Boardwalk, as they have for all the years of the parade.

Evelyn and Russell Hanscom are credited with restarting the parade after World War II and were in charge until 1979 when they retired from the event.

Their son, Russell Hanscom Jr. continues to help with the parade and the coveted Hanscom Award is given each year. There is often a Hanscom grandchild or great-grandchild in the parade.

Priscilla Parker took over the parade when the Hanscoms retired. Although she was only in charge a few years, it was

under her leadership that many more commercial floats were added and she brought cartoon characters such as Miss Piggy and Mr. Peanut to the parade.

Dutch and Doris Dalhausen took over from Priscilla Parker and directed the parade for many years. Both couples and Parker built the Baby Parade into the spectacular event it is today. Although the Dalhausens are no longer active, their son Bob still volunteers, and each year he is on the Boardwalk at the start of the parade, gently guiding contestants, bands, and floats into line.

For many years, local civic organizations sponsored and ran the parade. The Commuter’s Club, the Ocean City Hotel Keepers’ Association, the Young Men’s Progressive League, and the Ocean City Fishing Club were some of the organizations. The judges were groups of women, invited by

It’s History the sponsors. Today, the City sponsors the parade, but many volunteers still organize it and help on parade day.

Each year a different Grand Marshal is named. Famed baseball player Joe DiMaggio, who drew a crowd of 100,000 spectators, former Congressman and Ambassador to Panama William J. Hughes, television legend Sally Starr and children’s television show host Captain Noah were also Grand Marshals, as was the Philadelphia Baseball Team’s mascot, the Phillie Phanatic.

In the beginning, babies in costumes or decorated carriages made up the parade, but through the years floats and bands have joined the fun. Many of the floats are handmade, often ferrying several children at a time, pulled by a strong dad, uncle, or older brother.

School bands march proudly down the Boardwalk as does the renowned Hobo Band. Philadelphia Mummers String Bands often take part. The bands are interspersed among the different divisions so music is now an integral part of the parade.

Ocean City’s Baby Parade continues to draw a large number of entrants as well as spectators. In 2009 there were over 300 babies and young children entered, as well as several marching bands and commercial floats. The parade comes up the ramp to the Boardwalk at Sixth Street and continues south to 12th Street. The

judging stand is in front of the Music Pier, between Eighth and Ninth Streets. Prizes are awarded immediately after the parade at the Music Pier, and every child who participates receives a small trophy.

This year’s parade is Thursday, August 12, at 10:15am. Entrance forms are at City Hall Annex, Ninth Street and Asbury Avenue.

n o i t a c a v a Don’t take g n i l c y c e r m fro Atlantic County Utilities Authority Ocean City’s Recycling Provider For more information on Ocean City’s recycling program please visit www.acua.com.

Also follow us on:

NJ Y T I C N A E C O July & st augu ts cOncer h c a e B s tO thes for schedule & tickets e O G n O j.u t

mondays stOck

r ocn at the Music Pie • e liv ts ac n w o Nationally kn

s tuesday

sdays e u t c i t nue Funtas nt along the Ave Entertainme FREE Strolling 1th on Asbury • 10am -1pm -1 Downtown, 6th ht

ilm niG F y l i m a F 5pm 0 Asbury • 7:1 Stainton’s at 81 niGht s r e m m k, 6th-14th mu n the Boardwal pm o Strutting 7pm-9

ays d s e n d e W ket

s mar Farmer Asbury • 8am-1pm e & y avenu r u B Tabernacle 6th s a s alOnGctivities, Music, Outside Dining eveninG nstrations, A KinG ts, Demo Open Air Artis d Dining Specials! FRee PaR an plus Shopping ury 5-8pm sb • A n o 6th-11th

ys thursda

St.) ays d 0 & 11:30 - 9th :3 t 0 e (1 s k w o h r S t ma acle), Puppe

es (Tabern res FREE Pony Tid sic. Clowns, Balloon Sculptu u M , m 0am-1p Face Painting on Asbury • 1 th 1 -1 th 6 , n w Downto n tOurssts 2pm n i O t n in reakfa • local Bed and B s Trolley Tour of y niGht and much more! l i m a F k al araoke BOardW Family with Bands, Magicians, K ole Fun for the Wh Boardwalk • 7:30pm-9:30pm e the Music Pier 6th-14th on th t the season at

hou

g performs throu s p O p y it Ocean c mpany O c e r t ity thea is season!

Ocean c dway shows th

at Broa details presents 3 gre itytheatrecompany.com for nc Log on to ocea 00-beach-nj -8 1 • m o .c n tio eancityvaca c o • s .u j n c o

The beach called.

It said, “long time no see.”

(Don’t let the beach get lonely)

Stay in the surf with

Ocean City magazine

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

The region’s most convenient healthcare.

AtlantiCare Clinical Laboratory •

Hospital expertise

•

Neighborhood convenience

•

Skilled and caring staff

•

No appointment necessary

•

Analysis by certified professional staff at AtlantiCare Regional Medical Center

•

Most major insurance plans accepted

AtlantiCare Family Medicine •

Exceptional primary care for your whole family

•

Walk-ins welcome

•

Convenient hours

•

X-ray services on-site

•

Alternative treatments for headache, back and joint pain (Ocean City location)

•

Most major insurance plans accepted

FAMILY MEDICINE CLINICAL LABORATORY

201 West Avenue Ocean City Please call for hours.

609-391-8509

Physician Group

Please call for hours.

609-390-0012

•

Nights, weekends and holidays, we offer quick, convenient care without an appointment.

•

For any minor medical emergency, including broken bones, deep cuts, sore throats and earaches.

•

Our professional services include X-rays, stitches and splints on-site.

•

Most major insurance plans accepted.

•

Our board-certified physicians are ready to see you when a minor emergency strikes.

201 West Avenue Ocean City

URGENT CARE CENTER

Please call for hours.

Physician Group

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

AtlantiCare Urgent Care

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

609-390-7814

Hope Medical Commons 210 South Shore Road Suite 201 Marmora Monday - Friday 5 p.m. - 9 p.m.

Saturday and Sunday 9 a.m. - 3 p.m.

609-407-CARE (2273)

1-888-569-1000 • www.atlanticarephysiciangroup.com