Ocean City magazine, July 2010

Ocean City

july2010

magazine

Only $2!

Night in Venice

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

C

an you believe it’s July?!

We spend all winter waiting and waiting for the warm glorious weather summer brings and then – zoom – just like that it’s upon us. Let’s take a collective breath and enjoy the moments July brings us in America’s Greatest Family Resort.

Ocean City is just hitting its summer stride when the country celebrates its Independence Day. The island has fun parades and colorful fireworks to rival any big city’s show, but better yet... has them on the beach. Grab your blanket or chair and make the walk down to the beach that night and you won’t be alone.

Come to Ocean City for Fourth of July and you’ll be spending it with friends, fireworks and amazing foods.

July is also home to the island’s Night in Venice boat parade. Night in Venice is one of those legendary Ocean City events right up there with the Baby Parade. Everyone celebrates this party with elaborate fiestas all over the lagoons.

Did you know the parade began in the 1950s? Check out Laura Kiniry’s Night in Venice story on page 36.

Speaking of, this month our cover is a nod to the famous boat parade. Below see more shots of the McMahon family

boating down the lagoon.

A summer in Ocean City means celebrating fun things like being in the water and celebrating things you never knew could be so much fun.

Say, for instance, the beach. Yes, you know it’s there. Thankfully it’s always there. Besides being a cool spot on a hot day, the beach provides endless enjoyment for children, perfect people watching and relaxation. But sometimes, you want to take a beach break. Ocean City knows this. The island has many activities to offer for anyone not seeking a sandy spot. The award-winning Downtown has over 100 shops and eateries, each more adorable and fabulous than the next.

The recently expanded and renovated Community Center holds five organizations including the library, Aquatic and Fitness Center, Historical Museum and Arts Center. Join any of these and summer boredom will never strike. Read Bill Godfrey’s story about the Community Center on page 46 then get over there and see it for yourself. It’s quite beautiful.

Back in mid-June, I took a lesson at the Ocean City Municipal Golf Course. Read about my adventures in golfing on page 40. See how many things there are to do here?

We all know New Jersey is the garden state, but do you take advantage by buying local produce? In July and August, the Ocean City Chamber of Commerce makes buying local ingredients an easy task with its Farmer’s Market held on the Tabernacle grounds every Wednesday from 8am to 1pm. Grab your bike, and your friends, and head down to collect your fruits and veggies for the week.

You’ll find flowers, seafood and other yum items there too. I’ll be there every week, will you?

The Chamber also hosts Inn to Inn Tours this month and next. Take a trolley ride around the island and get to know some of our wonderful accommodations.

Flip to page 43 for Bill Godfrey’s story on the Scarborough Inn and take a tour of this historic inn right now.

‘Til next month, I hope you get out there and enjoy these long warm days in the ocean breezes. And, of course, I hope you stay in the salt spray!

on the cover

ON THE COVER: The McMahon family takes a cruise down the first Ocean City lagoon off West Atlantic.

Back row: Billy and Anita; Front row: Erin, Grace and Maggie.

To the left, check out the other photos in this series.

Photos by Bill Godfrey. ocnjmagazine.com

Ocean City

3

features

Oh, What a Night! 36 To a Tee 40 Scarborough Fair 43 Center Squared 46

things to do

July Calendar 19 Soifer’s Seven 20 Favorite Memories 18 Photos 16, 17, 21, 25, & 26 Kid Calendar 23

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

staying

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 Arts & Culture 49 OC Quiz/Word Search 50 It’s History 55

julyOcean City

Eating in the OC GET YOUR GREEK ON with a trip to Yianni’s by our fave foodie Al Dente. Eating, after all, is an art form. Or is it cooking? No matter, because this section’s got you covered whichever one you choose. Sweet tooth? Look below for Al’s five dessert finds. Meet the new chef at the Pink Parrot Grille and see what he’s got on his plate. Stir up some warm bisque from Jay’s Crabshack with the recipe of the month and spoon it in on a chilled air-conditioned night.

Al Dente’s Five Food Finds Divine Desserts in the OC in July

1

Macaroons from George’s Candies

2

3

Nutella crepe with fresh fruit and whipped cream from Ma France Creperie

Chocolate Covered Strawberries from Laura’s Fudge

4

5

Chocolate Mousse Cake from Ocean Cafe

Waffles and Ice Cream from Prep’s Pizzeria and Dairy Bar

In the Kitchen

David Melker PORT-O-CALL

Bill Godfrey grills the new chef in town

I

HEARD there was a new chef in town and I had to investigate.

Reports were coming in of a dashing figure in a chef’s jacket planning an internationally-inspired menu and, well, I had to know what the heck was going on over at the Port-O-Call Hotel. I really like the way the overall restaurant scene in the OC is headed. We’ve got some really good chefs here in town and they are doing more than just cooking.

They’re taking an active role in improving the entire industry. So when I hear about an experienced and passionate new chef, I’m checking it out. And who did I find?

I found David Melker, new executive chef at the Port-O-Call Hotel. That means he’s making the food for the Pink Parrot Grille and the Port-O-Call’s new deck eatery, Flipper’s Grille. I like the tools David has over at the Port-O-Call – clean restaurant with great ocean views and a location right on the Boardwalk. And, after talking with him, it sounds like he’s going to cook and promote until the Pink Parrot is packed to the rafters every night and you can’t get a seat at Flipper’s Grille. If you’ve never been, now you’ve got a reason to go to the Port-O-Call. I haven’t tried his food yet (emphasis on yet), but I think David Melker’s got the goods.

grille outside. It’s a beautiful deck out there and we serve grilled chicken, hamburgers and I plan on developing that to be much more. It’s a great place to sit. The deck is beautiful overlooking the pool. I’d like to have people walking on the Boards stop in and try our grilled food from the deck restaurant. And I want to develop some activity. We’re having a 4th of July party out there.

OCmag: Oh, so I can just walk off the

Boards and eat at Flipper’s Grille?

David: Absolutely.

OCmag: Tell me about the 4th of July party.

David: It’ll be my first party here at the Port-O-Call and I’m planning a barbecue with international food. It’ll be a taste of food from around the world. It’s open to our guests as well as anyone who wants to come in. We’ll have a nice menu.

OCmag: How long have you been at the Port-O-Call?

David: This is my first month.

OCmag: Woah. That IS new.

David: Yes, I’m new. But I’ve been at the shore for over 20 years. I’ve been a chef for 26 years. I learned a lot at the casinos, but I travelled the world as a

OCmag: Hi David, Welcome to Ocean City.

David: Happy to be here.

OCmag: Now I know the Pink Parrot Grille is here at Port-O-Call. What else is going on?

David: Well, we also have the deck

6

Ocean City

ocnjmagazine.com

In the Kitchen chef. I worked in the Middle East, in Europe and in the United States. I’ve worked in New York and Canada, too.

OCmag: That’s a lot of travelling.

David: I wanted to experience as much as possible, so I travelled with my family.

I got to taste a little bit of everything and I’m trying to bring that flavor into this hotel.

OCmag: Where did your interest in the kitchen come from?

David: Growing up it was a hobby for me. I learned to cook from my mom. I was pretty independent and had my own apartment at 15 and I would cook for my friends.

OCmag: 15?! Where was this apartment?

David: I was born and grew up in Israel, so you’ll see a lot of Middle Eastern influence in my food. I love Far East food too. You’ll find a lot of flavor in my food. Influences from Egypt, Morocco, Europe – a little bit of everything. Before I was a chef I was a teacher.

David: Absolutely. I’m looking at this hotel and I’m amazed with the design of the hotel and the location – it’s awesome. We’re sitting here right now and we’re looking at the sea! I want to create some happenings here at the hotel. This is a family-oriented hotel and I want to bring some action in, in terms of activities for the family, and some fitting food. We’re not gourmet, but the food is colorful, simple and flavorful with influences from around the world. Plus I want to fit my menu to the needs of the families that come here so it won’t be an expensive thing.

“My food is colorful, simple, and flavorful with influences from around the world” But when I came to the states in ‘85 I decided to turn my hobby into my profession. So I went to school and studied at ACCC and the CIA in New York plus lots of experience.

OCmag: Do you have a plan for this operation?

OCmag: How’s Ocean City treating you?

David: I love the Boardwalk, I love the sea. I bring my kids here for the games and the rides. I never thought I’d be a chef in Ocean City, so it was a surprise. A good surprise. I’m really happy to be here. I’m totally excited.

OCmag: Now that your hobby is your profession, what’s your new hobby?

David: My other passion is martial arts. I’ve been training in martial arts since I was 7. I love to workout; sometimes you’ll see me running on the Boardwalk. My motto in life is “whatever you do, do it with passion.” And that’s how I’m trying to live.

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

Have breakfast with us!

Contributing Writers Laura Kiniry, Fred Miller, Amanda Strube

7a m - Noon everyday

Contributing Artists/Photographers Marie Natale, Eric Weeks, Amanda Strube 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, call (609) 675-0867 or www.ocnjmagazine.com

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

Ocean City

Subscribe to

Oceanmagazine City

$20

for six issues Stay in touch throughout the year with your favorite shore town ocnjmagazine@comcast.net

7

ocnjmagazine.com

Ocean City

8

tta” ENNIE!

EW

Recipe of the Month

Shrimp and Lobster Bisque Jay’s Crabshack, 737B Asbury Avenue

INGREDIENTS: 2 fresh steamed lobster tails cut into chunks 4 tbsp butter 1 small white onion diced heavily 2 celery stalks diced heavily 2 garlic cloves diced finely About half a cup of flour 2 cups chicken broth 1/2 lb steamed shrimp completely peeled 2 cups half and half 1 tsp Old Bay seasoning 1. On medium heat begin melting butter in a large sauce pan. 2. Add onion, garlic and celery and saute till soft. 3.

Whisk in the flour. 4. Stir in chicken broth. 5. Once well blended, take off heat and allow to cool fully. 6. Once cool add lobster and shrimp. 7. Put mixture into a food processor and blend till smooth. 8. Return soup to saucepan and add half and half. 9. Heat through on medium heat but do not bring to a boil. 10. Serve with a dash of Old Bay. 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

“Old Bay, all day, everyday.”

Jay Graham, owner

Custard

“betta” on a BENNIE! NEW

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

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

Castle

Ice Cream Made Right Here! soft-serve

Fat-Free Yogurt castle swirls

Dips, Jimmies, Toppings sundaes

&

splits

137 Route 9, Marmora (609) 390-4432

broccoli rabe & sausage

ocnjmagazine.com

Ocean City

9

Famished Foodie

Yianni’s Cafe

I

This Downtown eatery has Al Dente saying “Opa!”

T WAS a bustling, overcast Saturday afternoon when I set out for lunch on Ocean City’s second most famous walk, Asbury Avenue. There’s been a lot of talk amongst locals and friends about a newer place called Yianni’s Cafe. Just ask a local where to have a good meal in town and I’m sure this name will come up as being a favorite. This Downtown location has turned over restaurants in the past, but judging from the crowd dining when I visited, Yianni’s could be here to stay.

When my dining partners and I entered the colorful dining room, accented with bright blues and reds, we noticed only one empty table inside, though there was an option to dine outdoors as well. Yianni took a small space in front of the restaurant and enclosed it with a black iron fence, flower boxes and blooming trees ­– great for a nice al fresco experience and perfect for “people watching.” Despite the activity

10

on Asbury, we chose to sit inside that day and took that last available spot. It was part booth/part table and we were happy to scoop it up. Inside the decor is funky ‘50s diner with blue metallic vinyl upholstered seats and booths. A blue and white checked floor completes the theme as does a sizeable counter with ice cream parlor stools.

After we got settled in, it was our chance to check out the dining options.

The menu is a collection of Greek and American-style noshes. From the looks of the food coming out of the kitchen, we knew we were in for some huge portions of fresh, healthy food.

I was dining with two friends and two children that Saturday afternoon. The

Ocean City

specials were very enticing and came with a choice of soup for just under ten dollars. The first thing to arrive was delicious warm homemade pita and hummus. It was smooth and creamy with a light note of lemon. This was offered by the house and a perfect nibble while we awaited our lunch.

The soup arrived next. We ordered one wedding soup and one chicken and couscous. Both were hot and homemade, and each had a chicken stock base. The wedding had small meatballs packed with flavor and the couscous was a nice deviation from the regular noodle to which we are all accustomed. As we finished our soups, we noticed the outside area had filled.

ocnjmagazine.com

Famished Foodie Perhaps because of the crowds, there was a 30 minute delay from the time we were brought our soup until our entrees came. We were anxious and the younger diners were growing impatient. As it turns out many people were in town for a fundraiser and Asbury Avenue businesses offered 10 percent of their proceeds for the day to the American Heart Society. Knowing this we were forgiving of the wait.

I ordered the oriental chicken salad. It was crisp, cold romaine lettuce topped with seasoned, sliced chicken breast, mandarin oranges, Craisins, carrots and seasoned peanuts. The dressing was a delicious, sweet-tasting mandarin orange concoction. All the components of this salad complemented each other without confusion. The kids each ordered Texasstyle French toast and bacon, which

time. We all unanimously agreed that this was one of the most authentic Greek moussakas we’ve ever tried. The crabcake sandwich was deep fried and served on ciabatta-style bread, with fries, tartar sauce and lettuce, tomato, and onion. We all agreed the cake had loads of flavor with bits of red and green pepper and onion, but lacked the most important part... crabmeat. We deconstructed the sandwich and made good use of the fresh, artisanal-style bread.

Every table at Yianni’s is equipped with a bottle of fruity, luscious olive oil. In my house anything this green and delicious is called “liquid gold” and reserved only for dipping and finishing a dish, as I’m sure was the intention here. Our friendly server explained that the oil came from owner Yianni’s own olive trees in his birthplace of Crete. Now that is love!

Our meal was very satisfying. I suspect Yianni’s will be around for a long time to come. My one regret is that our party wasn’t larger so we could sample more of the menu. I am anxious to try dinner – just reading some of the offered dishes, such as lamb chops, beef and chicken kabobs and red snapper – makes me hungry and curious. The atmosphere is energetic and fun. The children blended in with the other young diners and made us feel comfortable bringing them to this particular establishment. Yianni’s has a kids menu and adult food kids will eat.

I’ll be back for seconds and recommend Yianni’s to any family From left: The outside of Yianni’s Cafe offers a fantastic spot for dining al fresco in town looking and for prime people watching. Yianni’s is decked out in blue and white check, a for a fresh , healthy perfect old-school dining feel. The fare is delish, according to Al Dente. and generous meal Downtown . Opa!

ocnjmagazine.com

sounds boring compared to the other menu options, but was anything but disappointing. The bacon was a thickcut and the toast was dipped in a cinnamon-laced custard topped with powdered sugar. No wimpy breakfast here and there was no evidence of food left on the plate.

My dining partners ordered the crabcake sandwich and the moussaka, respectively. The moussaka was a layered dish of well-seasoned potatoes, eggplant, ground lamb and a creamy béchamel sauce. It was moist and the portion size was impressive. The dish was served with a beautiful Greek salad of lettuce, black olives, red onions and feta cheese. Topped with a perfectly acidic vinaigrette. I would return for the salad in and of itself at another

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, 3912212.

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 9.

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, 3981343.

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.

CASA DEL DOLCE House of Sweets.

947 Asbury, 398-9300.

CHATTERBOX RESTAURANT Big. Pink. Legendary. 500 9th Street, 399-0113. See ad page 13.

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

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.

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.

EMILY’S OCEAN ROOM CAFÉ At the famous Flanders Hotel. Open year round. 719 E. 11th Street, 3985700.

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, 391-0800.

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

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

best. 940 Boardwalk, 399-2400.

See ad on inside cover.

ISLAND GRILL A wide variety of seafood 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, 3994937.

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, 3995533.

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 this page.

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

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.

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

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

everything – dessert too (really good dessert). Serving b, l, d. New outside deck too. 801 Plymouth Place, 399-1997.

READY’S COFFEE SHOP Old school.

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

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

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

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, 3990753. See ad this page.

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, 391-1113.

voltaco’s Italian Foods to Take Out

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

957 West Avenue, OC

609-399-0753•609-399-0743

Same Family Owned Since 1954

ocnjmagazine.com

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 company ity theatre c n a e c o ps and the ean city Po OmA! c o /7 7 , 7/6 ent OklAH sents & 7/8 pres s center pre rt a g in rm o kton Perf AN d 7/12 stoc e r ive r B HOpe TH e liTTl m iCHAe l r e g iN s p OrTe r ps presents ean city Po A Tr iB uTe TO COle c o & 3 /1 7 F Or m iNg sents 7/14 pe r s center pre rt a g in rm o kton Perf 7/19 stoc TH e Am e r iCANs company & JAy ity theatre c n a e c o e B rOwN d th ity Pops an , CHAr lie c N A n a m e c d o O e A gO 8/17, 8/18 sent yOu’r & 8/19 pre

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

JULY IS FULL of super fun things to do everywhere on the island. This section’s all about the scene - turn the page to see what events you must attend, check out photos of who’s been where, and read favorite memories of a longtime Ocean City visitor. July is party time in the OC. Go ahead, see what’s in store this month.

Ocean City’s bravest business people march toward the Atlantic on May 28 during the Business Persons Plunge

ocnjmagazine.com

Ocean City

15

The Unlocking of the Ocean May 28, Music Pier Beach

16

Hank Glaser and Bob Pollack from Shriver’s Salt Water Taffy

Nicholas, Kevin Jr., and Kevin Narcavage from Glenn Mills, PA

Megan, Ali, and Emily from Philly

Amanda, Stephanie, and Jill from Marlton

Emily, who turned 2 that day, Nicole, Linda, and Ryan from Cherry Hill

David Humphrey and Ted Schroeder from Pure Tacos on the Boards

Ocean City

ocnjmagazine.com

and the Business Persons Plunge May 28, Music Pier Beach

Mayor Sal Perillo, Councilman Keith Hartzell, Fred Miller, Vince Hink and Angelo Psaltis unlock the ocean

As far as groups of people go, we say this is definitely one of the more interesting we’ve ever seen. How can you not love Ocean City?

ocnjmagazine.com

Ocean City

17

Favorite Memories

A Serendipitous Adventure

I

Danica Madden shares her love of family and Ocean City

LOVE Ocean City! My beloved Grammy and Grandpa D’Amico introduced me to the magical land named Ocean City, NJ. In fact, they were there staying at The Logan on 6th Street on May 28, 1978, the day I was born!

Betty and Frankie D’Amico found Ocean City on a very rainy night in the 1970s when they were heading back to NY from Virginia. The weather was so bad that stormy Saturday night that they decided to get off of the Garden State Parkway at Somers Point and stay overnight in a hotel there. They woke up on Sunday morning and my Grammy made my Grandpa take her over “the bridge” to see what was there. Everything was closed that Sunday but that didn’t stop my Grammy. She loved the town even more because they kept that day Holy. Little did they know that Sunday morning, that they would be finding the place where all of their children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren would make so many treasured memories together.

When I turned four, my Grammy and Grandpa took me for one week to stay at The Logan on 6th St. It was a week that I looked forward to for the next 12 years. I remember Fairy Tale Golf that was between 9th and 10th Street because it was always the first thing we did when we got onto the boardwalk. We would eat at Taylor Pork Roll and I would love to watch the kids at Playland go down the wave slide from inside the restau-

18

Danica Madden and her family after a day on the Ocean City beaches

rant. I remember riding on my Grandpa’s shoulders because I was so scared of the monster living on top of Playland! Thank goodness they changed it to a pirate ship. (Hopefully my son Connor will never be afraid of that) I remember my first time on the orange waterslide, which has been replaced by a roller coaster at Wonderland. But most of all, I remember the excitement I felt while driving over the 9th St. Bridge and heading into Ocean City.

Ocean City

Fairy Tale Golf is not there anymore, Taylor Pork Roll is gone, the monster found a new home and the waterslide isn’t orange anymore, my beloved Grammy and Grandpa have gone home to be with the Lord and yet at 32, I still get excited when I cross that bridge.

Ocean City is filled with treasured memories for me. Memories that will last a lifetime and be passed on from generation to generation thanks to the legacy of my grandparents, Betty and Frankie D’Amico.

ocnjmagazine.com

25

•King’s Brass Concert, 7pm Tabernacle •OC Pops Concert, 8pm Music Pier

18

•Greg Buchanan Harp Concert, 7pm Tabernacle •OC Pops Concert, 8pm Music Pier

26

27

•Farmer’s Market, 8am-1pm Tabernacle Grounds •Beach Walks Northend, 9am/ Southend, 6:30pm •OCFPL program South Jersey Paranormal Research, 7pm •OC Pops, 8pm Music Pier •Evenings Along Asbury, 5pm 28

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

19

•Jay & The Americans, 8pm Music Pier

•Farmer’s Market, 8am-1pm Tabernacle Grounds •Beach Walks Northend, 9am/ Southend, 6:30pm •Evenings Along Asbury, 5pm •OC Pops Concert, 8pm Music Pier •OCBP Women’s Lifeguard 21 Races, 6pm

•Farmer’s Market, 8am-1pm Tabernacle Grounds •Beach Walks Northend, 9am/ Southend, 6:30pm •Evenings Along Asbury, 5pm •OC Pops Too Darn Hot, 8pm Music Pier •OCFC Nor’ Easters 14 Soccer game, 7pm

•OCTC OKLAHOMA!, 8pm •Farmer’s Market, 8am-1pm Tabernacle Grounds •Sand Sculpting contest, 9am at 6th St. Beach •Evenings Along Asbury, 5pm •Beach Walks Northend, 9am/Southend, 6:30pm 7

W

1

29

•Market Days, 10am-1pm •Inn to Inn Tours, 2-4pm •Family Nights, 7:30-9:30pm •OCHM, “Look, Listen, Learn” •OC Pops Concert, 8pm Music Pier

30

23

22

16

9

2

•Merchants In Venice Seafood Festival, 5-9pm Asbury Avenue

•July Jubilee

F

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

15

•Market Days, 10am-1pm •Inn to Inn Tours, 2-4pm •Family Nights, 7:30-9:30pm •OCHM, “Look, Listen, Learn” •Ferko String Band Concert, 8pm Music Pier

8

•OCTC/OC Pops OKLAHOMA!, 2 & 8pm •Market Days, 10am-1pm •Inn to Inn Tours, 2-4pm •Family Nights, 7:30-9:30pm •OCHM, “Look, Listen, Learn”

•Inn to Inn Tours, 2-4pm •Freckle Contest •OCHM, “Look, Listen, Learn” •Market Days, 10am-1pm •Family Nights, 7:30-9:30pm •Sindia Minature Golf Day •July Jubilee

T

S

24

17

31

•Martial Arts Championship Tournament, 9am-6pm

•Night In Venice Boat Parade, 7:30pm •OCFC Nor’ Easters Soccer game, 7pm

3

10 • T. John Carey Master’s Swim, 6:30pm •Summer Arts & Crafts, 10am-5pm Carey Stadium •OCFC Nor’ Easters Soccer game, 7pm

•OCFC Nor’ Easters Soccer game, 7pm

•July 4 Bike Parade Northend, 9am reg; 10am start •OCFC Nor’ Easters Soccer game, 7pm

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

•Mummer’s Night on the Boardwalk, 7-9pm •Beach Walks Southend, 9am/ Northend, 6:30pm •OC Pops Too Darn Hot, 8pm Music Pier •OCFPL’s Clutter Free Home, 10am-Noon 22

12

•Mummer’s Night on the Boardwalk, 7-9pm •Beach Walks Southend, 9am/ Northend, 6:30pm •OC Pops Too Darn Hot, 8pm Music Pier •OCFPL’s Paper, Paper, 10amNoon 13

•HSOC Furry Friends Flea Mar- •Little River Band, 8pm Music Pier ket, 8am-Noon •Glad Vocal Ensemble Concert, 7pm •OC Pops Mozart Requiem, 8pm Hughes PAC

11

6

5

4

independence day

•Mummer’s Night on the Boardwalk, 7-9pm •OCFPL’s Organizing 101, 10amNoon •Beach Walks Southend, 9am/ Northend, 6:30pm •OCTC OKLAHOMA!, 8pm

•July 4 Bike Parade Southend, 9am reg; 10am start •Country Roads: The music of John Denver & Dan Fogleberg, 8pm

•Matthews Brothers Concert •Fourth of July Celebration

T

M

S

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

Soifer’s Seven July’s Must-Attend Events

Free events, freckle contest, and the Ferko String Band

1

ONGOING EVENTS The Ocean City Pops Orchestra at the Music Pier with a variety of concerts ranging from full production Broadway shows to classical favorites. Programs available at City Hall Annex and City Information Centers or call the Music Pier Box Office, (609) 525-9248 or 525-9300.

Stockton Goes to the Beach Concerts every Monday evening 8pm at the Music Pier in July and August with such performers at B.J. Thomas, The Little River Band, The Association and Tributes to Ricky Nelson and the Bee

Gees. Stockton also offers a series of children’s concerts.

For information – same as for Pops Orchestra above.

Every Tuesday and Thursday enjoy free entertainment in the Downtown and on Boardwalk, plus Evenings Along Asbury every Wednesday with artists, musical groups and shopping specials. Call (609) 525-9300 for details.

Ocean City Tabernacle presents concerts and special entertainment during July. Call (609) 399-1915 for information. The Ocean City Nor ‘Easters professional

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

soccer team has a full schedule at Carey Stadium, call (609) 525-9999. There are many events at the Ocean City Library, (609) 399-2434 www.oceancitylibrary.org.

FRECKLE CONTEST July 1 with 6pm, registration at Music Pier, Boardwalk and Moorlyn Terrace. Free. Prizes Awarded.

JULY 4 CELEBRATION Gigantic fireworks Display from off 9th Street Beach at 9pm preceded by Kite Festival, also bike parades. July 4-5.

Call (609) 525-9300.

HUGE SUMMER ARTS AND CRAFTS SPECTACULAR July 17, Carey Stadium and Sports and Civic Center, 6th St. off Boardwalk 10am to 5 pm. Over 250 juried crafters, call (609) 399-9998.

MERCHANTS IN VENICE SEAFOOD FESTIVAL July 23-from 6th to 9th Sts. on Asbury Ave., 5 to 9pm, music, rides for children, an extensive

2

3

4 5

variety of seafood for sale.

NIGHT IN VENICE BOAT PARADE AND BAY CELEBRATION July 24, one of the largest events of its kind in the world.

Starts 7:30pm by Longport Bridge, north end of the Island, approximately 100 boats and 300 decorated bayfront homes compete for prizes. To register for competitions stop at City Hall Annex, 901 Asbury Ave., call (609) 525-9300, on weekends or after business hours, call (609) 364-4010.

OPEN AMERICAN MARTIAL ARTS TOURNAMENT will be held at the Music Pier July 31, call (856) 783-1133.

For a complete schedule of events, visit www.ocnj. us or the Chamber of Commerce website www. oceancityvacation.com is also a good source of information.

Ocean City was just named one of the best beach resorts in the country by Coastal Living Magazine, the only New Jersey resort to receive the honor.

6

7

uF c l t i m a t e

i t n e s s

l u b

Ocean City

ocnjmagazine.com

‘80s Gala for the Community Center Friday, June 11, Flanders Hotel

Lisa Rumer, Amy Godfrey, Carrie Merritt and Lisa McGuigan

Beth Schumacher, Bill Schumacher, Kristina Roberts, Patty Talese, Midge Grunstra

Jamie D’arcangelo, Michele Pokrass, Lynne and David Cates

Gary Jessel, Charlie Bowman, Jennifer Bowman, Herb Godfrey, Val Godfrey, Glenn Watson, Jill Watson, Rose Marie Vetter

Cathy Pagano, Dave Repici, Jodi Broomell, Michael Lloyd, Barbara Beiseigel Hoffman

ocnjmagazine.com

Aimee Repici, Stef Godfrey, Polly Ann Bachman, and Angel Maxwell

Ocean City

21

M T

25

18

11

19

12

26

•July 26-30 Bayside Center Camp - Sharks Strange and Unusual/Chemistry/Phases of Matter

•July 19-23 Bayside Center Camp - Reptiles/Mammals

•July 12-16 Bayside Center Camp - Coral Reek Sharks/ Invertebrates

5

independence day

4

•July 4 Bike Parade Southend, 9am reg; 10am start •July 5-9 Bayside Center Camp - Caribbean Capers and Pirate Kings/Leaping Lizards and Silly Salamanders

•Fourth of July Celebration

•Beach Walks Northend, 9am/ Southend, 6:30pm •OCHM Wednesday for Kids, 10:30am, 11:30am, 1pm •Alex the Jester, 10:30am Music Pier •Evenings Along Asbury, 5pm •OCFC Nor’ Easters 14 Soccer game, 7pm •Beach Walks Northend, 9am/ Southend, 6:30pm •OCHM Wednesday for Kids, 10:30am, 11:30am, 1pm •Evenings Along Asbury, 5pm •Catskill Puppet Theater, 10:30am Music Pier

•FUNtastic Tuesdays, 10am-1pm •Mummer’s Night, 7-9pm •Beach Walks Southend, 9am/ Northend, 6:30pm •Family Film & Fun Night, 7:15pm

•FUNtastic Tuesdays, 10am-1pm •Mummer’s Night, 7-9pm •Beach Walks Southend, 9am/ Northend, 6:30pm •Family Film & Fun Night, 7:15pm

28

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

•FUNtastic Tuesdays, 10am-1pm •Mummer’s Night, 7-9pm •Beach Walks Southend, 9am/ Northend, 6:30pm •Family Film & Fun Night, 7:15pm

27

21 20

13

6

•Beach Walks Northend, 9am/ Southend, 6:30pm •OCHM Wednesday for Kids, 10:30am, 11:30am, 1pm •The Gizmo Guys show, 10:30am Music Pier •Evenings Along Asbury, 5pm •Sand Sculpting, 9am 7

W

•FUNtastic Tuesdays, 10am-1pm •Mummer’s Night, 7-9pm •Beach Walks Southend, 9am/ Northend, 6:30pm •Family Film & Fun Night, 7:15pm

For information/details on events, visit www.ocnj.us or call (609) 525-9300; Please confirm individual activities as times, dates, and locations can change.

S

29

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

22

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

15

•Market Days, 10am-1pm •Family Nights, 7:30-9:30pm •Ferko String Band Concert, 8pm Music Pier

8

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

•Seashore Story Hour, 1010:30am OCFPL •Toddler Time, 11-11:30am OCFPL

•Seashore Story Hour, 1010:30am OCFPL •Toddler Time, 11-11:30am OCFPL

•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

30

23

16

9

2

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

•July Jubilee •Market Days, 10am-1pm •Family Nights, 7:30-9:30pm •Sindia Minature Golf Day •OCFPL presents Magic of Chad Juros, 9-10am Music Pier •Freckle Contest

1

F

T

kiddiecity

24

17

10

3

31

•Martial Arts Championship Tournament, 9am-6pm •Saturday Movie at OCFPL - 2pm

•OCFC Nor’ Easters Soccer game, 7pm •Saturday Movie at OCFPL - 2pm •Night In Venice Boat Parade, 7:30pm

•OCFC Nor’ Easters Soccer game, 7pm •Saturday Movie at OCFPL - 2pm

•OCFC Nor’ Easters Soccer game, 7pm •Saturday Movie at OCFPL - 2pm

•July 4 Bike Parade Northend, 9am reg; 10am start •OCFC Nor’ Easters Soccer game, 7pm •Saturday Movie at OCFPL - 2pm

S

Want to look 10 pounds lighter and 10 years younger?

(We’ll let you in on the secret)

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

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

The Osborne family on the Ocean City beach

Ocean

june20

Only

$2!

10

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

City maga

zine

Re W e estka u ra nt

June 20-2 7

Shop ping• Dining• Events •Hist ory

Ocean City

y t i C n a Oce ine

magaz

10

mayier20issue -$3.95 prem

So, You Can u Think Yo d?

Lifeguar

ray lt sp e sa In th Adventure

and M ore in Am o-Tour Ecic aner a’s Gr eatest aves H Fa ily n Must mw Resort Stef’s Downto Shop

Only $20!

magazine

sort mily Re test Fa ’s Grea America More in 4/16/2010

ry and ts•Histo g•Even g•Dinin Shoppin

11:55:12

AM

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

d 1

ocmag.ind

ocnjmagazine.com

Ocean City

25

The Hungryman Relay

Father’s Day, June 20 - Photos by Amanda Strube

26

Team Air Circus, winners of “Funnest Team”

The Wards Pastry team

Team O’Doyle rules

Team Quarm 1 and Team Quarm 2

The winners, Team Island Grill

Team Hula brings it in

Ocean City

ocnjmagazine.com

Shopping SHOPPING CAN BE transcendent. Believe us, it’s possible, especially when you conduct your retail therapy in shops as fabulous as the ones in the OC. One step in Flying Carp Gift Gallery and your spirits soar. Read about the “Carp” and meet owner Lisa Fuschillo who keeps our homes in style all year long. See Stef’s picks for the red, white and blue must haves of July and get the scoop on Rich Frasca, owner of Marmora’s Custard Castle.

ERIN MORAN CERAMICS FROM FLYING CARP GIFT GALLERY Flying Carp Gift Gallery is one of those shops that you walk in and go, “aahhh.” It’s peaceful, practically perfect and passionately simple. Everything in the shop is fabulous – seriously. Even the smallest gift card has just the right touch of moxie and adorableness. Last time I went in, my eyes spied these amazing ceramic mugs and tea cups. I was in search of two teacher gifts and I knew I struck gold.

The ceramics have loads of finger impressions (ensuring amazing texture) and have no handles. Perfect for warming up your fingers with a nice steaming cup o’ Joe, hot choc, or another delish drinkiepoo. Each cup or mug has a delicate design with a matching bold interior. The cups are available with a matching saucer. Let’s drink to that. $18-$28. 939 Asbury Avenue, (609) 464-2608.

See more Stef’s Must Haves on page 29.

ocnjmagazine.com

Ocean City

27

28

Ocean City

ocnjmagazine.com

Stef’s Must Haves

TOMATO PIE FROM BENNIE’S If you’ve never had tomato pie from Bennie’s, raise your hand.

Seriously, if your arms are in the air, shame on you. That’s right. This tomato pie is so drool worthy, it’s actually a shame to not have eaten any.

The sauce is delicately sweet, the olive oil is present and the crust is the right blend of tasty and chewy. Grab a slice for lunch tomorrow. Dooooo it. $1.75/slice. 1159 Asbury, (609) 398-9450.

YARN FROM KNITTING NICHE Knit one, purl two. If you didn’t understand the last sentence you need to head to the Niche and take a lesson.

Knitting is a soothing thing to do while you’re watching TV, hang gliding, sitting on your porch.

Okay, maybe not hang gliding, but you get the idea. Start a new project now with a fabulous new yarn such as the lightweight cottons above. Purl indeed. 1330 Asbury, (609) 399-5111.

GAME FROM PESSANO’S My middle name is “games.” Rae may be on my birth certificate, but

you can call me “games.” I’ll play any, any time.

Midnight round of Phase 10? Yes. 3am Life? For sure. Pessano’s has a new shop on the Boards that seems to share my gaming passion. I found lots of games of all varieties, but it was “Find It” that truly had me intrigued. Find It is, simply put, a searching challenge. You have to turn, twist and shake the cylinder until you find all the missing ingredients on the list. The biggest challenge is the illustrious penny buried deep inside. Slap it on your porch table and watch people get intrigued. 1130 Boardwalk, (609) 399-3600.

GLASSES FROM SUNGLASS MENAGERIE If you’re trying to cool it up a bit (and really aren’t we all) sunglasses is a first class move. Just about everyone looks great in shades. No sleep last night? No problem. Slip on any of these bad boys by Coach, Oakley and Ray Ban pictured and you’ve got instant style, personality and cool. Who’s made in the shade? You! 1124 Boardwalk, (609) 391-8000.

SPARTINA 449 BAG FROM WHITE PALM My bags are so much more awesome than I’ll ever be. I think they know that too, in some superior, inanimate way. Just look how terrif these wee bags are above. Go ‘head, I’ll wait. Between the wonderful blue handles and the curved design – there’s so much to love I might actually cry.

But I won’t. Instead I’ll tell you that the Spartina line has over 20 styles, is 100% linen (with scotch guard) and genuine leather and each one is in-

spired by Daufuskie Island off the coast of South Carolina. Grab one while you can, y’all. $16-$139.

952 Boardwalk, (609) 399-7078.

YELLOWBOX SANDALS FROM LA BOTTINE Free your feet from those boots they’ve been walkin’ in all winter with these darling sandals

by Yellowbox. As owner Suzanne pointed out the colors are neither blue, nor red, nor white, thus blurring the theme. But as we both agreed, they are faboo enough to negate those pesky details. The colors are as whimsical as the starfish adorning them and they’ll make your feet shine or something like that. Pair a pair with some cute capris and a matching top and stroll.

1033 Asbury, (609) 399-6400.

NECKLACE FROM LUCKY FIND If you happen in on Lucky Find, you’ll probably see owner Johnis making a piece of jewelry, intent and steady.

Johnis is super nice and friendly and seriously talented. Apparently, those traits are what she looks for in friends, because it’s her friend Rose Harley who designed this amazing piece. Each bead you see is hand-strung. It’s so awesome, you’ll have to go in and see for yourself. When you realize the work it took to make this subtle creation, you’ll be back for more. 1035 Asbury, (609) 814-9700.

Red, White, & Blue

In the Biz

I

Rich Frasca CUSTARD CASTLE

From purple cow to peanut butter cup and everything in between

f you’re lucky enough to grab a cone, sundae or swirl at the “castle,” then chances are you’ve seen owner Rich Frasca behind the window either at the drive through or the counter. He’s always friendly, smiling and happy. Is it the ice cream? We caught up with the ice cream man in mid-June to find out what really makes him smile.

OCmag: I noticed you have a drive through window, how did you come up with that idea?

Rich: Well, if you ask my wife her version is that it was her idea. She was in the Mother’s Club and they were all taking the kids to McDonald’s. It was convenient because you didn’t have

to take the kids out of the car, but the kids didn’t like the ice cream there. So I figured I could bring a better product to mothers and everybody else. I also watched other ice cream shops and noticed how many customers would buy ice cream and just drive away.

OCmag: How many flavors of ice cream do you have?

Rich: We have 15 flavors of hand dipped. There’s vanilla, chocolate, cookie dough, cake batter, strawberry, mint chocolate chip, coffee midnight espresso, caramel turtle, butter pecan, banana, purple cow, cookies and cream, peanut butter cup and death by chocolate and, a new flavor, cinnamon bun.

We also have soft serve: chocolate, va-

nilla and twist.

OCmag: What is your favorite kind of ice cream?

Rich: My favorite is hard chocolate ice cream, but I’m boring.

OCmag: Is your business family-owned and operated?

Rich: Yeah, we get the whole family involved. My wife Jeanette does the graphics for the displays and fills in when we’re short handed. My daughter Jessica is almost ready to run the place. Derek does his chores and Dylan cuts the grass.

OCmag: How did you come up with all the unique names for all the ice creams?

Rich: I was influenced a lot by Ben and Jerry’s.

OCmag: What is the most popular ice

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

JUly 17 - ocean city craft Extravaganza sports & civic center and carey stadium 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

cream ordered by kids?

Rich: With the younger kids, it’s definitely cotton candy water ice, or our handdipped ice cream, purple cow. For teens or people in their 20s it would probably be the cake batter or our newest flavor cinnamon bun.

OCmag: What’s the purple cow?

my kids Dylan, Derek, and Jessica.

OCmag: What did you do before you owned Custard Castle?

Rich: I spent 21 years in the casino supervising craps.

OCmag: Did you grow up around here?

Rich: I’ve lived here all my life. My grandmother helped found the volunteer fire department.

She had a speakeasy and a fire broke out there Above: Owner Rich Frasca standing proud in front of his one night. After they castle. Left: Custard Castle employee Jesse Laurito scoops out a serving of hand-dipped for a customer. Photos by fought that fire, she decided that this little town Amanda Strube needs a fire department.

Rich: The purple cow is black raspberry OCmag: Who is your most memorable with white chocolate streaks. customer?

OCmag: When you’re not providing ice Rich: It would have to be the large mint cream to the township, what do you like to cone guy. He comes at least once a day, do for fun? sometimes even twice.

Rich: When I’m not working I like to fish Interview by Amanda Strube and Bill and snow ski. I also love spending time with Godfrey.

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 RD look fabulous. 956 Asbury, 398N 28.

SO EAad page 3577. See

23 S

CELEBRATION!

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

608 Asbury, 814-0308.

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.

20

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 Single, B&B DEPARTMENT DoubleSTORE & Tripopen le Big selection,Cagreat prices, pacity Yamah a 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.

and Kawasakis

BICYCLES $ FLORIST ANNARELLI’S BICYCLES A hugeCall SPINNING WHEEL, 858 City Asbury, selection of bikes; repairs. 312 1014 Bay Ave., Ocean $ 399-2238.

398-1157.

Asbury, Walk Inside White Building to Front Counter

60 per hour 30 per ½ hour

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

399-5100

www.bayviewmarina.com

DOODLES 714 Asbury, 398-1226.

LADIES APPAREL FLYING CARP

ASAIL PARID R ES

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 An awesome 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

Through the eyes of an artist

ONLY $50.00!

RESERVATION REQUIRED. CALL 398-1000 OR 399-5100 TODAY!

JETSKI, WAKEBOARD, WAKEBOARD , WATERSKIING WATERSKI BOAT RIDES & T&UBING A TUBING VAILABLE HERE TOOTOO.

Bayview Watersports 314 Bay Ave. O.C.,NJ 1987 www.bayviewmarina.com since since 1987!!

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

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

32

Ocean City

www.marienatale.com

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

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.

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

930

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, 3985661.

ON THE WAY TO OC

SURF SHOP/SUNGLASSES

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

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

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

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.

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

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/SUP Rentals p Hobie Cat Rentals p Sailing Lessons p Kids Sailing Camp

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

ocnjmagazine.com

from Name Station.

Boardwalk, 398-4918.

Ocean City

33

Trends

C

Lisa Fuschillo FLYING CARP GIFT GALLERY

ARP owner Lisa Fuschillo is filled with smiles and soft hellos every time we enter the glassfront door. She’s as charming as the items she sells and we couldn’t wait to find out what she’s all about.

OCmag: The Flying Carp is a unique name, how did you come up with it?

Lisa: I bought the store from the original owner, and the name came with it. The name comes from a holiday in Japan, originally known as Boys day it’s now known as Children’s day, it’s where they fly those big carp kites. It’s supposed

Green is the scene right now in home accents

to teach kids to push through obstacles and not to give up.

The original owner thought that was a good name for a business just starting out.

Also at the time we had a lot of Asian inspired items so the name was fitting.

OCmag: What is your favorite part about owning a business in downtown Ocean City?

Lisa: I would have to say having a relationship with customers that come year after year.

There is a loyal group of people that love Ocean City and come back again and again.

OCmag: What kind of merchandise do you sell?

Lisa: We sell hand crafted

jewelry and pottery from artists all over the country, as well as cards and gifts that are special, things you won’t just find anywhere else.

OCmag: What has been the most rare piece of art you’ve sold?

Lisa: Over the years there have been quite a few, but probably the most challenging thing was a fountain that was in our window, it weighed over 200 pounds, and it was the only one. It was plugged in and had running water and we had to wrap it.

OCmag: Have you always lived in Ocean City, and if not where did you grow up?

Lisa: My parents were born and raised in Atlantic City, so we never really got that far away from the Jersey shore. We lived in Egg Harbor Township for a few years, but my mom always says that she has sand in her shoes, so we moved to Ocean City to get closer to the ocean. My family moved here when I was 13, so I consider that growing up here. It’s a great place to grow up.

OCmag: When you’re not working what do you like to do for fun?

Lisa: I love to go to the beach, watch movies and read books, I also love to sit outside Who’s On First with an iced latte.

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 OCmag: What book are you reading right now?

Lisa: I love reading novels.

I try to read non-fiction because I know I should, but I can’t stay away from stories about people and how we relate to one another and the world we live in. That’s part of why I love what I do at the Carp, I love getting to know people and finding out what they are really about. And if I get to make them happy in the process, I feel very well rewarded. After reading some lackluster books recently, I wanted something tried and true. So I turned to the classics. I’m about half way through rereading Jane Eyre,

by Charlotte Bronte, and it’s like seeing an old friend again.

After work, I can’t wait to get

The Gingham Whale

home so I can go read some more on the beach!

OCmag: What is your favorite place in Ocean City?

Lisa: I would have to say the beach down the north end of the island, under the bridge.

That is where the best sunsets are.

OCmag: Who is your most memorable customer?

Lisa: I actually try to remember all my customers. It’s challenging in the summer with so many faces coming in and out, but I think it is important to remember all of my customers.

OCmag: What’s the biggest trend in home fashion right now?

Lisa: The Eco/Green movement.

Designers and artists are really thinking about the materials that they use to design home

Antiques Shore Things Folk Art Furniture Country Cottage Gifts

furnishings and accessories.

It plays into the use of natural materials and the resulting look, which I happen to think is a perfect fit for shore homes!

Materials like bamboo, recycled materials, just look great at the beach and work well with a sandy lifestyle! Last winter the emphasis at the New York Gift Show was definitely “green” and I think it will be a trend that stays with us for a long time to come.

Interview

by Flying Carp Gift Gallery owner Lisa Fuschillo Amanda Strube and has wonderful taste. One peek in her shop and you’ll be hooked.

Stefanie Godfrey.

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

Oh, What a Night!

The story of the famous boat parade that lets Ocean City shine, year after year.

BY LAURA KINIRY

E

VERY July, Ocean City’s Intracoastal Waterway gets an opportunity to shine, literally, with tons of sparkling lights, elaborately decorated vessels, and hundreds of bayside homes overflowing with costumed revelers and boasting holiday-esque décor. Welcome to Night in Venice, a Jersey Shore tradition that’s bubbly with local flare, from Flyersthemed fishing vessels to houses highlighting OC’s own “Pirates of the West Atlantic.” The signature boat parade ranks as one of the world’s largest, and the overall festivities count as one of Cape May County’s most anticipated events, a weekend of parties, peoplewatching, and creativity that never fails to inspire.

“It’s a premier event in Ocean City,” says local insurance agent Michael McMahon, 31. “I’ve only ever been a spectator from the shore, but it’s always entertaining.” McMahon, the fifth of seven kids, says his family’s been hosting their annual Night in Venice party at his parent’s bayside home since 1988.

Last year, more than 100 friends, relatives, and co-workers gathered to celebrate in the McMahon’s backyard and along their bayside deck, drinking beer, dining on catered foods and potluck, and watching the parade from shore.

Centering on inventive themes like ‘70s Disco, Hawaii Five-O, and the fraternal favorite, Animal House, their parties seem to get more elaborate each year.

“My siblings and I pick a theme in the spring and make all the decorations ourselves,” McMahon says. “We cut out letters and hand-paint our signs.”

And the McMahon celebration is just one of dozens, if not hundreds, of parties hosted along the parade route each year, many held at homes so elaborately decorated that they rival even the most intricately adorned boats.

Night in Venice remains one of Ocean City’s few summer happenings focusing around the barrier island’s quieter bayside, perhaps a reason the event is such a hit with local residents. While waterfront parties are par for the course, the overall highlight remains the boat parade, a procession of 50-100 maritime vessels sporting classic and comic themes, playing music, and lighting up

the night like an endless swarm of fireflies. The parade begins beneath the Longport Bridge and continues southwest along the back bays to Tennessee Avenue, sailing past thousands of spectators while weaving in and out of lagoons. For parade viewers, it’s an opportunity to watch the sea come alive.

But for those aboard the boats, waving to onlookers while winding past a trail of illuminated homes and businesses is just as rewarding.

Though the city’s first boat parade took place in the early 1900s, it had no affiliation with today’s event: OC’s original Night in Venice, as it was also called, was an opportunity for Philadelphia debutantes to tour the harbor and introduce themselves to local society.

The modern incarnation came about in the 1950s through OC Public Relations Manager Art Walkins, who thought up the idea after witnessing a similar water regalia in Venice, Italy. Walkins joined forces with Ocean City Beach Patrol Captain Jack Jernee, and together they established the inaugural event to commemorate the city’s 75th Anniversary, or Diamond Jubilee.

Similar to the McMahon’s parties,

Left: Each year the McMahons celebrate Night in Venice with a big bash on the lagoon. Top: The Pride of South Jersey floats with patriotic inspiration.

each Night in Venice boat parade revolves around an annual (though optional) theme. Last year, World Series Champions’ Philadelphia Phillies shared the honors with the 100th anniversary of the city’s iconic baby parade, resulting in a large number of adults sporting baseball jerseys and cloth diapers. Additional themes have included “Night at the Movies” and 2005’s “Put on a Happy Face,” though rogue boats spoofing current events – like one poking fun at last year’s Bernie Madoff investment scandal – are also routinely common.

With this year’s optional theme, “One Enchanted Evening,” parade viewers can expect plenty of princess costumes and fairy tale décor.

McMahon says he’s seen tons of creative NIV home and boat decorations over the years, but admits to being a little biased in terms of his favorites.

“I can’t help but think of [my family’s] decorations,” he says. One that particularly stands out for him is an 8’ x 8’ gopher sign, which he helped make by

scanning the DVD cover of Caddy Shack and having the image blown up and mounted on corrugated plastic. The family hung it outdoors for their Caddy Shack theme party, and again as part of their 2008 Night in Venice Greatest Hits party, celebrating 20 years of the annual McMahon-family event. The sign was just one of many McMahon’s older brother Bill saved throughout the years and displayed that evening, including one reading, “If Mom calls, I’m at the Library,” which they hung from a makeshift outdoor bar, and another advertising “Boss Hogg’s Moon Shine.” For their Caddy Shack theme, the McMahons also created a marshmallow chipping green, which they then floated in the lagoon.

While not always in tune with the theme, party attendees often don costumes – things like wigs, hula skirts, and pirate ensembles complete with eye patch – as part of the celebration.

For the McMahon’s Big Hair Band party, one 75-year-old woman even arrived

dressed as an ‘80s rocker. “I remember one year all the women attending the party wore copies of Lady Diana dresses,” says Carmel Hines, a McMahon agency employee who’s been attending their parties for nearly 20 years. “The whole community gets involved [with Night in Venice]. It’s a great thing.”

This year’s 56th annual parade takes place July 24, beginning at 7:30pm. A U.S. Coast Guard vessel leads the celebration, followed by a boat carrying “Miss Night in Venice” and her court, a group of 12 young women who earn their spots and titles through fundraising. The girl raising the most money wears the evening’s coveted crown, and money earned – typically about $60,000-70,000 annually – goes toward assisting local organizations, like the wish-granting Sunshine Foundation, and Ocean City After Prom, a supervised alcohol- and drug-free post-prom event for high schoolers. This year’s yet-to-be-named Grand Marshal (past grand marshals have included Philadel-

Top: Night in Venice takes Ocean City around the nation. This boat celebrates New Orleans tradition of Mardi Gras. Left: The more creative the better when it comes to decorating your boat. Right: Go back in time to the Boston Tea Party.

phia Flyers’ Hall of Fame goalie Bernie Parent and former OC mayor Henry “Bud” Knight) will ride on a third boat, before the parade continues on with city council members, chartered fishing boats, last year’s Best in Show winner, and a slew of contest entries.

Boats compete for prizes in categories like Most Original, Best Decorated and Lighted (under and over 24 feet), along with morespecialized categories like Best Classic Vessel, highlighting a historic boat 25 years or older, and Best Children’s, honoring a vessel entirely decorated by kids 15 and under. There’s also a musical category.

“Night in Venice is something I look forward to every year,” says Hines, and she’s not alone. Along with 4th of July celebrations and the crustaceanthemed events of Weird Week in August, Night in Venice is one of the city’s most popular events, although the boat parade has suffered a bit in recent years

due to rising gas prices and the country’s poor economy. As incentive for boats to participate, event organizers are considering increasing this year’s awards for top winners from $500 each to a larger, undisclosed amount. In 2008, organizers offered $100 gas cards to lure boat participants. And while big prizes are reserved for the most inven-

and non-bay residents to take part in the celebration. Free grandstand seating is set up at street ends along the bayside waterfront, and charter companies – including Starfish Boats – sell tickets aboard their parade-bound party vessels so anyone can become part of the action. The Friday evening prior to the boat parade, Asbury Avenue between 6th and 8th Streets plays host to the Merchant in Venice Seafood Festival, with over 30 vendors on-hand to offer some of the area’s best seafood, as well as live bands, face painting, crafters, and kiddie rides.

No doubt, Night in Venice is the pinnacle of Ocean City’s summer season, though for Michael McMahon, the event is extra special: “My younger brother Patrick lives in the US Virgin Islands but makes the trip back every year. My dad’s family comes from all over the country. In our family, Night in Venice is considered a holiday.”

“The Boat Parade... lighting up the night like an endless swarm of fireflies.” tive and elaborately decorated vessels, all boat owners entering the parade receive both a commemorative souvenir and a cash card redeemable at OC businesses.

Not everyone can experience Night in Venice through the excitement of a bayside party, though there are still numerous opportunities for day-trippers

To a Te e

By STEFANIE GODFREY Photos by BILL GODFREY

B

EFORE I ever set foot on a golf course, I thought fashion was the most intriguing thing about the sport. Between the plaid pants, cute skirts, shoes and shirts, there are plenty of reasons to play golf, and to me all of them involved wearing adorable clothes. Plus with golf’s slow pace, there’s little chance of ruining your look by sweating too much. That’s what I call a win-win sporting situation.

It’s with this mindset that I decided to have a go at the game, which does not stand for “Gentleman Only, Ladies Forbidden.” It just doesn’t, people, and for many reasons. The top one being the game’s as old as the hills, and back then, acronyms didn’t even exist.

Growing up, my grandfather Louis Bordo was really into golf. I remember being a little kid watching him watch golf instruction on TV (if there’s anything more sedate than watching actual golf, it’s watching people learn how to golf). He’d practice strokes, play, and read magazines all with the intent of improving his game. He even lived on a golf course. To my teenage self, this was kind of ridiculous. It was swinging a club after all, how hard can that be? And what’s with that weird grip? Well, you know how they say, “if you have to ask then you really don’t get it.” That so applied to me. Regardless, at the ripe age of 33, I finally stepped onto a golf course to learn how to play. Yes, I wore a skirt, and no, the game wasn’t easy.

If you’re like me, every time you drive along Bay Avenue you turn your head left when the airport comes into sight. It’s a natural reaction. There are planes potentially flying overhead, and if so, we’re not going to miss the chance to see one land. Since the Ocean City Municipal Golf Course is right next to the airport, it’s the next thing on the radar. Most days there are groups of people out there on the manicured lawn, with their cute little outfits, carts, clubs, etc. They all look relaxed and happy in the sunshine and cool bay breezes. Not a bad place to be, I thought. So that’s where I decided to have my first golfing experience.

My game was in early June. It was warm with perfect blue skies and a breeze blowing softly across the greens. I pulled in about 10am and walked to the clubhouse. Standing at the counter was Megan Myers.

She was about to give me my first golf lesson, except she didn’t know it yet. Mike Petrozza was supposed to be my golf teacher that day, but when I arrived, his fingers were swollen and he couldn’t play. Now, if you’ve golfed at the Ocean City course before, you probably met Mike. He’s super likable and, I must

admit, I was a bit disappointed when he first said he couldn’t golf. Mike loves this golf course, you can see the smile in his eyes when he speaks about it.

“This is a very well-kept course. It’s not too challenging, but it’s fun. It’s about 1,500 yards and 12 holes,” said Mike.

Mike introduced me officially to Megan who’s here from Tallahassee, FL for the summer interning at the Aquatic and Fitness Center. She was at the golf course that day to fill in at the shop for Mike so he could play with me. Since fate stepped in in the form of swollen fingers, she got to play instead. Well, she got to teach me mostly...but there was a bit of play.

We walked out of the clubhouse/pro shop and got in a riding cart. The Ocean City course is very walkable and every other golfer that day was on foot. Despite it not being truly necessary, I felt kind of cool driving that little white vehicle around. In fact, we drove the ten feet to the first tee box.

Here all the tee boxes are turf with the exception of Hole 10, which is grass. We dropped our balls onto the ground and Megan started me off with a mini lesson in how to hold the club.

And I thought the plaid pants were awkward.

The grip consists of crossing your pinky and index finger as you hold the club. I asked Megan why that’s the norm and she said it’s to keep the club in place.

Okay, that makes sense. It’s scary enough that a golf ball can hit you, let alone a club. I kept looking up at the sky around me like the Wicked Witch of the West, except it was a golf ball I didn’t want dropped on me.

Once I got the grip down I took a few practice swings with my 3 iron. It’s a slow process that a hyper hypo like me really had to get used to. When ready, I went for it. Can you guess what happened next?

I got a hole in one.

Okay, that’s only what happened in my ESPN dreams. I did actually hit the ball, a good start, but it just rolled instead of getting air. It rolled a decent distance though, so with a nod of approval, we went on to bring it home. For my next shot Megan handed me the 9 iron.

“The higher the number club, the smaller the distance the ball will go,” she said.

Ah ha. With the 9, I made it onto the green, but it took three putts for me to get that ball into the hole.

My crowning achievement in the sport up to now was getting a hole-in-one on a Boardwalk mini golf course and winning a free game. So why can’t I seem to putt well here? Things didn’t improve from there.

On Hole 2 I whiffed. I felt confident, went for it and ... lifted my head up at the last second, took my eye off the ball and completely missed. I’m pretty sure I moved that air around good though. After I shook

off the embarrassment, I tried again and this time, the ball rolled onto the green.

To take it home, I went right to the putter.

After getting close twice, The ball finally went in on the third putt. Tiger Woods, I am not.

As Megan and I walked to the next hole, the cattails in the middle of the course were bending with the wind, and a calming whoosh filled the air. I felt far away from everything, in a good way, even though the beach was only five blocks east. This is a game I think I could learn to love. With that in mind, I began to take things more seriously.

When Megan teed off at the next hole, I watched. She stood with her feet more than hip width apart, her backside out, and her arms almost straight with the right one bent in a bit. She swung and that ball went a flyin’. With her lead, I was able to get my stance and grip a little more on track. When it was my turn, I got my arms, head, and legs in place, brought the club back, kept my eyes focused on the ball and went for it. And this time the ball went flying up in the air with a whoosh of its own. I jumped up and down then stood in amazement for about a minute. It felt really good to get air.

While cruising the ball went off toward the right. That’s when Megan explained that the club can be open or closed. Depending on which one it is, the ball will lean left or right.

I’m pretty sure she totally blew my mind at that point.

Open or closed? Seriously? It was hard enough just to get that tiny ball to go up in the air. That detail will just have to wait.

My ball went almost to the fence, out of bounds – a mulligan if you will. Golf has the greatest names for shots. Eagle, birdie, bogy, mulligan. It’s worth the price of admission just to talk like that for a couple hours.

According, to Megan, to put the ball back in play you stand next to it, pick it up and drop it an arm’s length away, toward the fairway. And that costs an entire stroke.

Mulligan: sounds cool, but really isn’t that good.

Since we had already played about an hour and a half at this point (The entire course takes on average about an hour and 15 minutes according to Mike.), Megan and I decided to head over to Hole 10, the only par 4 on the course. This hole is also the only one with a tee box made of grass.

The Ocean City Municipal Golf Course is a 12-hole, par 3 course

When I drove the ball this time, I used a tee, and that little white ball went.

“Driving on grass makes the ball go a lot further,” said Megan.

Indeed.

While Megan teed off, I watched a plane come in for a landing. Between the relaxing pace, planes, beautiful cattails, and bay breezes I realized how lucky I was to be in that spot on Earth. Alas, it was time to go.

When we walked back in to the pro shop after our game, Mike took me into the back room where the clubs are for rent, and showed me the kid clubs.

“Kids should be about four to play the course and they should play on a weekday.

Weekends get kind of busy, with 120-160 people playing,” he said.

Back in the main section, everything held new meaning. Suddenly I needed golf balls, a new visor, and at least three instruction magazines.

I’ve turned into my grandfather in less than two hours.

Ocean City Municipal Golf Course is open from 7am to 7pm in July and August. Tee times are first come, first serve. Call (609) 399-1315 for information .

Scarborough Fair The story of Scarborough Inn, the historic bed and breakfast that’s been a part of Ocean City’s landscape since the late 1800s and the innkeepers who care for it today.

Story and photos by BILL GODFREY ocnjmagazine.com

Ocean City

43

Scarborough manager Jennifer Freeman checks in a guest to the historic Ocean City inn.

W 44

HEN the Scarborough Inn is open for business, you’ll find an American flag (or two) flying from the railing on the front porch. Carol and Gus Bruno have owned and operated the Scarborough Inn for over 20 years and the stars and stripes billowing in the breeze captures two of the Brunos’ passions – their inn and their country.

“Love of country is a passion for me.

I was the first in my family to go to college and I’ve had many opportunities in this country that I never would have had in Italy,” said Gus. “Being able to

Ocean City

go to college and the many business opportunities I’ve had – I’m very passionate about that.”

I’m with you Gus. Three cheers for the red, white and blue and thanks to everyone who came before us that made America such a great place.

Carol and Gus met in college at Davis and Elkins College in West Virginia.

But their paths to higher education were a bit different. Carol traces her family’s American roots to the 1600s, before the founding fathers were even born. Her patriotism was passed down

ocnjmagazine.com

through the generations until her father, a WWII Navy veteran, passed on his love of country to his children. Carol and her sister would hold a flag-raising ceremony every day at their Ocean City summer home.

“In my family, we’ve always had an American flag flying. My father taught us how to fold the flag properly. I’m not sure how it even started, but my sister and I would march ourselves out to the dock, side by side, and raise the flag. We did it over and over until we got it just right,” said Carol with a laugh. “It’s not something we always talked about, but it was an integral part of our family. It’s continued in our personal and business life and it’s important for us to be active Americans.”

Gus arrived in America from Italy at the ripe old age of 10 and had a job within a week. He considers himself blessed with all the opportunities the U.S. has provided him, including his college degree.

“My father arrived here after WWII from southern Italy and we had family in Connecticut. My mother, my sister, and I arrived a couple years later,” said Gus. “The small village where I was born was founded by the Greeks – it’s a small village in the mountains – and some of the homes go back 2,000 years. Not much has changed there since I left.”

With a deep respect for the country they love, it’s no surprise that they approach their business with the same care and high regard. The Scarborough is one of Ocean City’s oldest inns and Carol and Gus are serious about maintaining its reputation.

“We’re proud of the high percentage of repeat and referral business we’ve had over the years,” said Carol. “We’re dedicated to preserving the inn’s vintage charm, but we’ve added many modern amenities.

We have people that have been coming to the Scarborough for far more than the 23 years we’ve had it – some for 40 years, so we’re blessed to have a nice following.”

Carol grew up in Pennsylvania and summered in Ocean City. Gus grew up in Connecticut and after they married, Ocean City seemed like a natural fit for them. When they graduated college, Gus was employed

by Davis and Elkins as an admissions counselor so he was on the road quite a bit.

“Gus was on the road all week and I had an attachment to Ocean City because of

my family,” said Carol. “It’s a nice place to live and a nice place to raise a family so we came here. I taught second grade at the primary school and it was nice for me to be in this safe environment.”

“Carol’s father would tell us stories of watching the Flanders being built,” added Gus. “They owned a home right across the street from the Flanders and they would tell stories of sitting on the porch and watching the construction in the 1920s.”

One of the Bruno’s first business ventures was a gelato stand – the very first on the Boardwalk. They were pleased with their product, but the business required long hours away from their two boys, Peter and Jason.

“The children were younger at that time and it was kind of impersonal, too. We wanted more connection with our customers,” said Carol.

Along came opportunity. In 1988 Gus and Carol purchased the Scarborough (it was known as Hotel Scarborough at that point) from Andy and Nancy Jernee. The only problem was that they purchased the inn about a week before Memorial Day and were expecting a full house for the holiday weekend. When I asked Gus and Carol about their first week in the business they laughed loud and hard.

“When we moved in, it was the week before Memorial Day and the living room was full of boxes. Thanks to the previous owners, we were sold out,” said Carol. “I was teaching full time. Then I would come home and put boxes away, clean and organize until one in the morning or later. On our first Memorial Day, I walked in from school to a packed house – guests were arriving and we’d never done this before. All of a sudden we were innkeepers.”

“We didn’t know anything,” said Gus. “The Jernees – wonderful people – were moving out and we were moving in. They stayed for half the day, but we were totally inexperienced. And there we were.”

But they figured it out. Today the Scarborough has some of the city’s finest accommodations and the Brunos often lend their inn to various art and community groups for events.

“Ocean City has been great for us,” said Gus. “ I’ve gotten so much from my involvement in local organizations – it’s important

to me that I’m able to participate. I’m glad to be able to give back to the community.”

They’ve also managed to keep up with the ever-changing pace of business and technology.

“When we first took over the inn, we couldn’t have imagined the changes,” said Carol. “Back then everything was done with pencil on a cardboard chart. There were no credit cards, no phones in the rooms, no air conditioning, no internet – and that’s just infrastructure. We’ve also redecorated every room – several times. Things change.”

“When we bought the building it was white throughout,” added Gus. “We repainted with authentic paint colors to highlight the wonderful architectural details.”

The Scarborough is a historic building in Ocean City. Carol’s research indicates the building was constructed around 1895. Before the Jernees owned the Scarborough, it was owned by Doris and Tom Perkins.

Before that was the Workman family who owned it for about 25 years.

Like most people who wind up spending significant time in Ocean City, the salt water seems to have seeped directly into Gus and Carol’s veins.

“To me, Ocean City means family,” said Carol. “There are so many memories of care-free summers growing up. I learned to swim in the Flanders pool. I learned to sail on the lagoon. It was a wonderful childhood and it’s been a wonderful place to raise our family.”

And their business practices also reflect the Ocean City sand in their shoes.

“When we opened this business, we naturally gravitated to using local business people. It’s so much a part of us, it’s almost instinctual,” said Carol. “The only things left from the original inn were the oak dressers. We had local tradesman strip them down and refinish them.

“Our staff is fantastic. In the beginning we did everything. But we’ve been very fortunate to attract people with great skills. Our head housekeeper has been with us for 14 years and our manager Jennifer Freeman has been with us for eight.

We have a very committed and wonderful staff.”

Ah, Ocean City. We fly our flags proudly here, but we can’t get the sand out of our shoes. And that’s just fine with us.

Center Squared

Story and photos by BILL GODFREY

I

CAN’T imagine what life in Ocean City would be like without the community center,” said Tom Heist, a local businessman who along with John Shirk are co-chairs for the newly-revived Ocean City Community Center Association. “It really touches the fabric of this town. It really adds to the quality of life in Ocean City.”

Frankly, many of us who live in and visit Ocean City would rather not consider Ocean City without the community center. I, for one, am very glad the community center is there. I use it all the time. When the renovations began, I was even happier at the thought of fresh new facilities. Now that they’re almost done, I’m totally stoked.

I’m actually working out in the new fitness area while I’m writing this. I’m on a treadmill and I’m typing at the same time. Okay, not really, but I’m telling you, this is an amazing space. Anyone involved with this project should be proud. If you use this center

46

at all, you’re probably pretty happy about the whole thing.

“The Community Center was originally built in the ‘70s by a cross section of volunteers who wanted to improve the quality of life in Ocean City,” said Mayor Sal Perillo. “This expansion project is the next step in realizing their dream to provide a high level of service to our youth, families, seniors and visitors.”

What’s that? You haven’t noticed the major renovations going on over at 17th Street and Simpson Avenue? Well they’re big. And fabulous. And they’re green. And as it turns out, those renovations are a great reason to throw a party! Or at least a fundraiser.

The Ocean City Community Center Association hosted a gala “Back to the ‘80s” fundraiser on June 11 that brought out over 300 people to the Flanders Hotel to raise money for the center. Luckily none of them were dressed in parachute pants and nobody wore a t-shirt emblazoned with “Frankie Says Relax.” Although I did see one guy wearing a skinny tie.

“It was a hugely successful event,” said John. “So many people

Ocean City

ocnjmagazine.com

A rendering of the completed community center project at 17th and Simpson Avenue.

donated items or services for the silent auction. And these are tough economic times. The Electric Fish Band donated their time, the beverages were donated, there was artwork, surfboards, so much – a lot of people stepped up to the plate. It was the entire community pulling together.”

The packed house at the Flanders was a big turnout for a fundraiser. It shows how Ocean City residents feel about their community center. There are so many things to do there. The center hosts five different organizations including the Ocean City Aquatic and Fitness Center, the Ocean City Free Public Library, the Ocean City Historical Museum, the Ocean City Arts Center and the Cape May County Senior Center.

“From using your hands to using your mind or body, or just going there to relax or interact, the community center is a big part of this town,” said John. “And we as the association want to raise awareness of that. People don’t realize there are five separate entities under that one roof. There’s so much there and not enough

ocnjmagazine.com

people realize that. The association will continue to raise awareness. And money, too, for various programs and capitol needs.”

You should be aware that those organizations have some nice new digs – $12 million worth of new and nice – in which to do their thing.

The funny thing is, the center almost didn’t get built the first time around. Seems people in town back then thought it was an unnecessary indulgence.

One of the big reasons behind the community center’s construction was the pool. Proponents of the idea wanted to give all the swimmers in Ocean City a place to go in the winter. Think about it.

There are a lot of swimmers in Ocean City, including high school athletes, professional lifeguards who need to train in the winter, and regular people who like to swim. But there was a contingent of citizens who said “we have an ocean and a bay, why do we need a swimming pool? It’s a waste.”

“It was a controversial project,” said Tom. “But many of the

Ocean City

47

City, Cape May County, the Library Board and the many organizations and volunteers who helped make the renovations a reality as a “true partnership.”

The project snowballed until it touched all facets of the current building. In the beginning it looked like there weren’t enough funds to finish the entire project, so local citizens, including Heist and Shirk, revived the community association to raise funds for construction. The Ocean City Library Board and the County of Cape May also contributed funds to the construction. But luckily, the city council and mayor rolled the construction costs into a bond offering which provided enough funding. That bond took some pressure off the community association, but the organization was already moving forward with fundraising plans.

Instead of dropping their plans they continued to raise funds to help with smaller expenses.

“What’s amazing is how energetic and enthused people are about adding to the quality of services at the community center.

It’s a place where people have passion and they want to focus their energy and make it better. So it’s not like we had to rally the troops; they were there. John and I, as co-chairs, just sort of led the discussion,” said Tom. The first phase of construction on the center is already complete.

Those improvements include the new senior center on the first floor and additional space for the library and aquatic and fitness center. Phase II is underway and includes construction of a new front entrance and lobby, renovations to the existing library and the first floor of the Aquatic and Fitness Center.

One of the best parts about this whole thing was that almost everything in the center remained open during construction. You could still workout, borrow a library book or take a pottery, drawing or dance class at the Arts Center.

“Ogren, the company that is the contractor for this project went over and above their contractual obligations to help us keep the center open during construction,” said Jim. The newly renovated center is beautiful. Plenty of natural light and a dedication to greener living were all part of the plan.

“Many steps were taken to provide for a more energy efficient building to reduce waste and limit the operating costs of the center,” said Jim. Solar panels, carpeting that includes 38 percent recycled material, and more bike racks to encourage less driving – it’s all part of a plan to control costs and save energy.

Yeah, this is a really nice space now. A lot of folks take advantage of the center and a lot of folks put a ton of energy and time into making it a great facility. Like Tom Heist, I can’t imagine what life would be like without it either.

Renovations on the Ocean City Community Center cost about $12 million.

The building houses five organizations, including the library and Aquatic and Fitness Center.

original detractors became the biggest promoters. The center was an example of a vision that led to something incredible. And when they decided to build the community center back in 1976 they set up the Ocean City Community Center Association. Once it was built and they opened the doors in June of 1979, the group disbanded.

We revived it about a year ago and filed for non-profit status.”

Let me back up a moment and give you the whole story on the community center.

“The building was not really in favor 30 years ago,” said Jim Rutala, business administrator for the City of Ocean City. “The city wasn’t interested in taking on the project so it gave the land to a non-profit group to build. They said ‘you raise the money and you build it.’ People like Dick Cabot, Carolyn Murphy, Tom Heist, Bill Hughes and a lot of other folks took it on. They had a fundraising event and they built it. It’s always been a community project and it continues to be.”

So the community center was a fixture in town for 30 years.

About three years ago the Library Board realized they needed more space than what they had currently, and planned to build an entirely new structure on the corner of 9th and Asbury (where the City Hall Annex is now). But as that plan took shape a lot of people thought, “now hold on a minute, I think there’s an even better idea here.”

“We started looking at the plans and thought ‘why not build adjacent to the existing building’?” said Jim. Good idea, huh? And as folks started looking at that expansion, they took a step back and thought, “you know what? The whole building could use a bit of a facelift.”

“Then the community got involved and said ‘with these new additions, let’s do something for the Aquatic and Fitness Center too.’

And finally the mayor encouraged a plan for a community center with one entrance for all the organizations with a lobby across the front,” said Jim. Plans were put in motion to renovate the whole building. Mayor Perillo then approached Cape May County Freeholders and offered the county a space for a new senior center to replace the old one at 33rd and Bay Avenue. Most of the work on the center will be done by mid-July according to Jim, with some minor work finishing up in the fall.

Rutala described the relationship between the City of Ocean

48

Ocean City

ocnjmagazine.com

Arts in OC July’s cultural happenings Catch Oklahoma!, Mother Goose, Inc. and more this month in the OC

T

HE Ocean City Arts Center (OCAC) has a new executive Director. Rosalyn Lifshin took over the position in mid-April. You might know Roz from Sun Rose Words and Music Store, her business at 8th and Asbury. What you may not know is that Roz has a degree in teaching and a deep interest in the arts.

“I love art. My background is in marketing, so I thought with my love of art, my marketing experience and my degree in teaching, I could use all of those skills at the Arts Center.

We have more than 50 classes that we offer throughout the year for all ages,” said Roz. For a complete list of Arts Center classes visit www. oceancityartscenter.org “We’re geared up for summer. We have art camps for kids and we’re in full swing for all our adult courses. Marie Natale will be exhibiting in July so it’s going to be great. And don’t forget the Boardwalk Art Show in August. That’s huge.”

There are a few new courses including some vocal workshops and a new Zumba class.

“It’s going to be a fun summer. We have Bud Cole, a local poet who’ll be teaching writing and photography too.”

It looks like a fun summer at the Arts Center. Be sure to say hi to Roz when you stop in.

ocnjmagazine.com

OC THEATRE COMPANY Imagination Station Creative drama classes for Grades K through two; Three classes offered July 13 to July 27. This onehour creative time is perfect for your little one who already has aspirations of being a star. Sign up for one class or all three.

Dance Week 2010 Grades five through 12; Beginning August 2, 9:30 to 11pm. Various professional dance instructors, choreographers and dancers will teach the class so kids will be exposed to a wide form of dance styles.

Vocal Camp and Music Appreciation Week Grades 5 through 12; August 9 to 13. OCTC’s brand new vocal music camp is perfect for the student who loves to sing. Each singer will have the opportunity to perform in a recital at the end of the week.

To learn more, visit www. oceancitytheatrecompany. com.

OCEAN CITY POPS Oklahoma! Don’t miss this spectacular revival of the Rodgers and Hammerstein all-time favorite show on July 7. Michael Hartman directs. Sponsored by The McMahon Agency.

July 11 Maestro Scheible conducts the Mozart Requiem with Brandywine Singers: Jonathan Kreamer, Markus Beam, Jody Kidwell, Carole Latimer, and Noah Van Neil. Sponsored

by Mack and Manco in memory of Ensign John Elliott.

July 13 Join singer Michael Hope as he returns for a galloping tribute to Cole Porter and is joined by soprano Allyson Pace.

Sponsored by Joel A. Mott, III – Ocean Abstract Company. For info, visit oceancitypops.org.

YOUTH OPERA OF SOUTH JERSEY Mother Goose, Inc. A fastpaced, highly-entertaining one-act musical for children young and old. This lyrical romp through storybook land is performed twice a day at 4 and 7pm on July 20, 22, 27, and 29 at the Hughes Performing Arts Center in the Ocean City High School, 6th Street and Atlan-

tic Avenue. This is a refreshing song and dance revival of the value of reading from the storybook characters themselves.

The character actors will be available for an “Eat and Greet” between shows. Pizza, hot dogs and other goodies will be available for purchase to those attending the show, priced with a family in mind.

Photo opportunities with the cast between shows so bring your camera.

Tickets are $8 for adults and $5 for children. Call (609) 5762060 for tickets in advance or buy them at the door.

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

Ocean City

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

49

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

Y X S R T N L C Y R Z V R T X F C Z U D D T P S U N L S W F

50

X S I V A P T Y W R V N H B T O O E O L H S F C T E M F F J

I K K L K L M K Y G X Z U X R R R U M O Q I D S N B C L Z J

O N R N Z D Y E R P S O O S Y Q O G R X H S F X T F M H K K

W P E L C A N R E B A T O O Z G J G D T G O E M J Y E H E P

J K N N G F F A H Y U N K X V C M K Y D H R U O B X J K N J

X B A N S J W A W D S L V Y U W L I H U D O W U T Q Y Y Q V

H U M A N E S O C I E T Y B T P K B W J O A F X T A K L P N

O S S N D I E S N Y E F T L H P B B C I Y V V J W U M Q H O

C T U O U D T L O J R R V N F P C J K C Z P P W U N K O B Z

E I M R J O E Z Q L G S E I D N A C S E G R O E G L L Q T S

H R M T I T R G J R T T A N B P U V F I R D U Q Z S Y Y R D

P A E H A H B F P N N X J Q L Y R D Z C J B K W F D A Q I K

C X R E J E R S E Y F R E S H T Q T E M K D M B X R B C T L

V N W N T Q N Z Z H M J M Z N J T A I V Y C W D X A N X O S

A I S D Z T R M S X A D D B C Z G S R N C T R Z I O X C X D

K P R V O B U Z Q J D T A A V M Y Q Z R H X M N E B I G N N

A T B W P S M X P Q I Y N Z E C C G A E A T I D K E H J A U

U O J L N P U J R C S V E F O E A N B R L I A Z K T P B D O

K R V X E U U U T I V G S O B R E A Q Y K R B N A A R K O R

K U F P D E V L D F C P O A Z S Y Q U H A N I N Z K O I Z G

B U J S K L H E B S G C L L H O G E E P S T J D N S L V J Y

N X X P K F C W Q G P Z R H F Y V X T P E O Q F X E R F A A

N J Z X N E W X S E H H T D B C X A T Q N J U I A K N A F L

U T B V N C F W L I R Z S R W E O M P X F C S T H M B Q H P

H K I T C F Z L F T R B E U H B W U F E E B H R H X I J D O

X M E T Z X R V G U Q R L U W S W J R H X R F H O E A L F Z

BATHING SUITS

FOURTH OF JULY

PLAYGROUNDS

BAYSIDE CENTER

GEORGES CANDIES

SKATEBOARDS

BOAT PARADE

GOLF COURSE

SOUTHEND

CORSON’S INLET

HUMANE SOCIETY

SUMMER

CRANES

JERSEY FRESH

TABERNACLE

FAMILY

NORTHEND

THE BAY

FERRIS WHEEL

OSPREY

TOMATOES

Ocean City

W R X V P I H D O L K N E J K H B Z A S U M O V K B N J Y S

D V G B C D A L M G S L S F C H S F M D E K T Z Q B X D H V

E R T G R M F M B A T H I N G S U I T S T C W T J U U Y R E

ocnjmagazine.com

Game On Ocean’s 11

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

1. Ocean City’s Night in Venice started in what year?

8. What variety store opened a second location on the Boards this year?

2. What sports can be played at the 34th Street recreational facility?

9. What organization sponsors the Inn to Inn Tours every Thursday in July and August?

3. What scale model is found at the OC Historical Museum?

10. What organizations call the Community Center home?

4. What event is held every Wednesday on the Tabernacle grounds?

11. What is the name of the first bridge leading to Strathmere?

5. What year was the Gillian’s Wonderland Pier carousel built?

8. Pessano’s 7. Red’s Jersey Mex.

11. Rush Chattin.

Center

5. 1926 4. Farmer’s Market 3. The Sindia 2. Basketball & Tennis 1.1954

Aquatic & Fitness, CMC Senior

7. What is the new name of Rojo’s Jersey Mex at 11th & Haven?

6. 45th

6. What anniversary is Prep’s Pizzeria celebrating?

10. OC Arts Center, OC Library,

OC Historical Museum, OC chamber of Commerce 9. The Ocean City Regional

BERGER REALTY Leon K. Grisbaum #1 in ocean city sales and summer rentals 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

51

Real Speak Here Comes the Story of the Hurricane

L

Michael McMahon with insurance tips to weather the storm

IVING at the shore is wonderful. Sometimes, though, we have to deal with a pesky storm or two. From June to October there’s potential threat of a hurricane, so use these insurance policy tips to be sure you’ re covered.

HOMEOWNERS INSURANCE •Replacement Cost Make sure you have Replacement Cost coverage on your dwelling and contents. This ensures that in the event of a loss, you’ll recover the current replacement value without any deduction for depreciation. A property should be insured for the reconstruction value, not the resale or market value. While market values may have decreased in the past few years, the cost of construction materials continues to rise. According to the Wall Street Journal, as of April the cost of lumber is up 56 percent.

Review your policy annually and make adjustments if necessary. Not all policies increase coverage automatically.

•Deductibles Every homeowners policy has a deductible. It’s the amount the in-

A southend house after the storm of 1962

sured is responsible for in the event of a loss. It’s common for policies on homes all over New Jersey to also have a hurricane or wind deductible. These deductibles may be for a fixed dollar amount or a percentage

of the building coverage. For example, a 1 percent wind deductible with building coverage of $500,000 would be $5,000. The wind deductible would apply to any damage caused by wind. A hurricane deductible would apply only if damage was caused by a named hurricane that strikes New Jersey.

FLOOD INSURANCE •Flood insurance is available through the National Flood Insurance Program. You can get up to $250k in building, and $100k in contents coverage on a single family home. Renters of a home or business can get coverage for contents and any interior improvements they’ve made. Excess flood insurance is also available to cover up to the full replacement cost of your home.

Even if your home is “on the highest point of the island,” you’re still on an island and need flood insurance!

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

I. AM. HUNGRYMAN. ‘

(Well, now Im full)

Sponsored by

Ocean City

Thanks to EVERYONE who made the inaugural Hungryman Relay a rousing success. We all had a great time and we appreciate the folks who helped get it off the ground and those brave souls who came and raced.

magazine

We raised over $700 for the Community FoodBank of New Jersey!

Giving a whole new meaning to the phrase “Eat and Run.” Brad Wiltshire, Bill Bowman, Charlie Bowman and the Ocean City Fire Department Lt. Steve Ang and the Ocean City Police Department Mike Rossbach and everyone at Public Works Jim Rutala, Mike Dattilo, Kathy Caraballo, Larry Conner and the staff at the Music Pier Everyone at the City of Ocean City Laurie Howey Marcia Shallcross Ocean City Downtown Merchants Volunteers from the OCHS NHS; Lexis, Sarah, Maddie, Amanda and Shannon Margie Barham and the volunteers from the Community FoodBank of New Jersey Photographer Amanda Strube Andrew Yoa, Jim Yoa, Kevin Scull, Jane Davis

Bill McGinnity Walt Hohman from Wards Pastry 1, 2, 3 Draw and the band roadies Jennifer and WAYV crew Sturdy Savings Bank Ocean City Regional Chamber of Commerce Ocean City Tourism Development Commission U.S. Foods Sysco Corporation South Jersey Paper Ed Hitzel And everyone who showed up on race day for our inaugural event.

See you all next year!

Visit ocnjmagazine.com for the final results

Staying Over LURAY MANOR

Offering affordable comfort for guests WHO ARE THE INNKEEPERS? We are – John and Ruth Vanderpool. We have lived in Ocean City since 1959 and raised our four children here. Our children, John, Lois, Ruth Ann and Nancy, have been part of the hotel business since they were children. We have 15 grandchildren and six great-grandkids with one on the way. All of the grandkids have helped with the chores over the years.

WHEN DID THE INN BEGIN? We’ve been in the hotel business (rooming house) since 1973 and have owned and operated the Luray Manor since 1980.

LOCATION ON THE ISLAND? We are located on the corner of 7th and Central Avenue (501 E. 7th St). We are four blocks from the beach and 2 blocks from the center of the Downtown shopping area.

HOW MANY ROOMS? We have 13 rooms consisting of three large family rooms (up to 5-6 people) and also connecting rooms.

We even have lower-priced rooms that share a hall bath for those who want to play in the sun and visit our famous Boardwalk and only need to rest their heads on a comfortable bed at the end of the day. However most rooms have private baths/showers.

The Luray Manor has 13 affordable, clean rooms

gance.” We’re currently in the process of getting our information on the internet. In the meantime, we can be reached at (609) 3995260 or email us at LurayManor@yahoo.com for a brochure.

KID FRIENDLY? PET FRIENDLY? Families are welcome. Church youth groups can also be accommodated. However, we cannot accept pets.

WHY SHOULD I STAY/ WHAT’S SPECIAL ABOUT YOUR PLACE? We have clean, comfortable and affordable rooms. Each room has air conditioning and a refrigerator. There’s a cozy lobby with a TV and a large porch with great breezes where guests can meet up with friends. Our motto is “Enjoy comfort without the extrava-

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

Mayors of OC

S

Fred Miller on the island’s leaders

INCE the Lake Family founded Ocean City in 1879 there’s been five forms of government.

The Ocean City Association transacted all official business from 1879 to 1884. In 1884 the growing town was incorporated as a borough run by a mayor and four councilmen. Beginning in 1897, the resort operated under an act incorporating it as a city run by a mayor and six councilmen.

In 1911, a commission form of government was adopted. Now voters would select three commissioners and one would be designated mayor. Since 1978 the City of Ocean City has operated under the Mayor-Council form of Mayor Henry “Bud” Knight presents the 2005 South Jersey government pursuant to the Faulkner Act. championship trophy to OCBP’s Paul Mangen.

This is a good time to remember the 22 men who Civil War on the Union side. He came to Ocean City in 1881 earning have held the title of Mayor of America’s Greatest Family Resort. a living as a builder.

GAINER P. MOORE (1884-1890) Moore, Ocean City’s first mayor, JAMES E. PRYOR, MD (1890-1892) Pryor graduated in 1888 from was born in Chester County, Pa. in 1836. He served honorably in the the Detroit Medical College. He came to Ocean City in 1888, and soon acquired a successful medical practice.

GAINER P. MOORE (1892-1894) The 1892 Ocean City Guide Book reported “He came to Ocean City in 1881, and has held the office of mayor since its incorporation, with the exception of one term.

He is a progressive official, honored by all parties, and has served the city well.”

H. G. STEELMAN (1894-1895) Steelman came to Ocean City in 1888 and opened a grocery store at 705 Asbury Avenue. The mayoral election of 1894 ended in a tie between Steelman and Robert Fisher. City Council chose Steelman mayor and he served for the first year of a two-year term. Fisher went to court to contest the 

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



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

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

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

 

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





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

   

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

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

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

ocnjmagazine.com

Ocean City

55

It’s History choice, and was allowed to serve the remaining year, starting on March 8, 1895.

ROBERT FISHER (1895-1896) Fisher was one of the first real estate agents in the city. His real estate and insurance office was on Asbury above Seventh Street. His home was on the corner of Seventh Street and Wesley Avenue.

GAINER P. MOORE (1896-1897) Moore, according to an article in a local newspaper, “Advanced and supported such projects and gave promise of success and the advancement of Ocean City’s interest in wealth, population and intelligence.”

WESLEY C. SMITH (1897-1901) The first election under the new city charter was held on April 13, 1897. Smith was re-elected on April 11, 1899.

JOSEPH G. CHAMPION (1901-1907) Champion came to Ocean City in 1890 and established himself as a builder and contractor. He also opened a retail lumber business. He was first elected mayor on November 5, 1901 and served three twoyear terms.

LEWIS M. CRESSE (1907-1911) Cresse, before being elected on November 5, 1907, was executive

Clockwise from top: Mayor Robert L. Sharp presents the 1967 Hoffman Memorial championship trophy to OCBP Captain George T. Lafferty. Mayor Joseph G. Champion watches as 9-year-old Jack Kelly, Jr. presents the Ocean City Beach Patrol 1936 doubles rowing championship trophies to T. John Carey (left) and Olaf Drozdov. Mayor Edward B. Bowker presents the OCBP 1949 swim trophies to Barney Hungerford, Joe Sweeney and Paul Geithner. Mayor Harry Headley, far right, posing with 1912 Ocean City lifeguards.

head of Ocean City office of the Central Trust Company of Camden; member of the Board of Education; state assemblyman; and state senator.

HARRY HEADLEY (1911-1915) Headley, the first mayor under the commission form of government, came to Ocean City in 1893.

He was a building contractor and realtor.

His political career began in 1896 when he ran for and was elected to council. He’s

It’s History credited with building the city’s first brick building in 1895 on the northwest corner of Asbury Avenue and Eighth Street and the city’s first ocean pier in 1899. While mayor, the first bridge to Somers Point was erected and City Hall was built.

JOSEPH G. CHAMPION (1915-1931) Champion returned to the office of mayor in 1915. He was re-elected in 1919, 1923, 1927, but defeated in 1931. In 1922, he was elected to the Cape May County Board of Chosen Freeholders.

HARRY HEADLEY (1931-1935) Headley returned to local politics in 1931 when, with John E. Trout and William H. Campbell, he was again elected c o m m i s s i o n e r .

Trout and Campbell decided Headley should be mayor again. He was a prime mover in the effort to establish the Ocean City Free Public Library in the high school building, and worked vigorously to solicit funds for the purchase of books and equipment.

JOSEPH G. CHAMPION (19351939) Champion, George D. Richards and Henry Roeser, Jr. were elected commissioners on May 14, 1935 and Champion was again mayor.

GEORGE D. RICHARDS (19391943) Richards first came into public life as police magistrate,

where he won acclaim for efficient handling of the police court. His law training was obtained at Washington and Lee University and the New Jersey Law School. He was a veteran of the World War. Richards, 49, died on May 17, 1943, the last day of his term, of grippe.

CLYDE W. STRUBLE (1943-1948) Struble is credited with having first promoted the idea of county, state and federal governments sharing the cost of beach erosion control.

He died, while in office, on December 3, 1948 after an acute appendicitis attack.

Commissioners could not agree on who should be mayor and the position was vacant until the May 10, 1949 election.

EDWARDB.BOWKER(1949-1959)Bowker, a permanent resident since 1909, was in the real estate and insurance business. He was elected to city commission in 1939.

NATHANIEL C. SMITH (1959-1963) Smith, along with D. Allen Stretch and B. Thomas Waldman were elected to the city commission on May 12, 1959. Smith became mayor at the reorganization meeting of May 19, 1959. Before mayor, Smith was state assemblyman and state senator.

B. THOMAS WALDMAN (1963-1967) Waldman, a public accountant, ran for reelection to city commission on May 14, 1963 and received more votes than any of the other nine candidates. D. Allen Stretch was reelected and Roy Gillian was the newcomer to the commission. Stretch and Gillian decided Waldman would be mayor.

ROBERT L. SHARP (1967-1971) Sharp, a former city tax assessor, received the most votes at the May 9, 1967 commission election. David L. Simpson and R. Robinson Chance, Jr. were also elected and they decided Sharp would be the next mayor.

B. THOMAS WALDMAN (1971-1978) Waldman was top vote getter in the May 13, 1971 commission election. Robert E. Lewis and Luther L. Wallace were also elected and they picked Waldman to be mayor again.

CHESTER J. WIMBERG (1978-1982) Wimberg, the first person to be elected under the Mayor-Council form of

government, was the owner-operator of Wimberg Funeral Home in Ocean City and commissioner of revenue and finance.

JACK BITTNER (1982-1986) Bittner, owner of Sandaway Hotel on 8th Street and Ocean Avenue, was a member of Ocean City Board of Education and Cape May County Board of Chosen Freeholders.

ROY GILLIAN (1986-1990) Gillian, owner of Gillian’s Wonderland Pier and Gillian’s Fun Deck, was a former city commissioner and former member of the Cape May County Board of Chosen Freeholders. He unseated incumbent Mayor Jack Bittner by a 2-1 margin on May 13, 1986.

NICKOLAS J. TROFA, JR. (1990-1992) Trofa, a lifelong resident of Ocean City, brought 30 years of business experience to the mayor’s office. He served for eight years as a councilman before being elected mayor. Trofa, less than two years into his term, died on January 31, 1992 of a massive heart attack. There is a memorial plaque attached to the Music Pier honoring Nickolas J. (“Chick”) Trofa Jr. RICHARD DEANEY (1992) Deaney, Ocean City’s business administrator since 1989, was appointed mayor by the city council to serve until the May 12, 1992 election.

HENRY “BUD” KNIGHT (1992-2006) Knight, a graduate of Rutgers University College of Pharmacy, was owner/operator of Knight’s Pharmacy for 27 years. He served for eight years as councilman before being elected mayor.

SALVATORE PERILLO (2006-2010) Perillo, a senior partner in the law firm of Perskie Nehmad & Perillo, helped organize and served as spokesperson for the Ocean City Foundation for Educational Excellence.

JAY GILLIAN (2010-present) Gillian, owner/operator of Wonderland Pier, was elected on May 11, 2010. He’s chairman of Shore Memorial Hospital Board of Directors, member of the First Night Ocean City Board of Directors and the Ocean City Historical Museum Board of Directors, and was president of Ocean City Board of Education.

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