The beginning of August in Ocean City attracts enough sport fishing boats, the value of which would buy a small country. This August 7 – 11, Ocean City, Maryland hosts the the 50th annual White Marlin Open, the world’s largest billfish tournament with a record purse of over 10.5 million! The following week is another fishing tournament where many of the anglers will stay to try their luck again.
There are big boats and small boats. Boats owned by celebrities and local boats owned by teachers. It’s a scene around town and in the many marinas that dot the shores of Ocean City and West Ocean City. The boats drop their lines very early in the morning to parade out through the inlet to the favored fishing grounds dozens of miles off-shore.
Not everybody can be here in person to see these boats parade with their catch flags, but you can still watch them with the webcams on OceanCity.com.
Webcam from the Cambria Hotel just north of the Route 50 Bridge into Ocean City
The webcam located at the top of the Cambria Hotel by Spain has a fabulous view of the inlet where you will see the boats coming and going. Here is the Timelapse of the first day of the tournament, August 7, 2023 so you don’t have to get up at 5 am to see the boats leave the inlet in hopes of snagging a multi-million dollar fish! (You can adjust the playback speed to .5 so you have a better chance of seeing the boats.).
If you want to watch the boats in real time from the top of the Cambria, here is the webcam.
Webcam from the Angler Restaurant & Bar just South of the Route 50 Bridge
If you don’t want to see the bridge going up and down for the boats and would like a lower angle shot of the water and the fishing boats, check out the webcam from the Angler. This is a great place to go get happy hour (2 drinks when you order one and they have great grouper finger appetizers!) and you can watch the boats coming and going as you enjoy your Goombay Smash or Grapefruit Crush (My favorites!). If you aren’t here and want to see the action, here is the Timelapse for August 8, the second day of the tournament as well as the live webcam.
Live Webcam from the Angler
Timelapse Webcam from the Angler – August 8th, 2023
Marlin Fest Village
Lots of people are watching the White Marlin Open from the Marlin Fest Village. It is set up in the inlet lot this year. Check out the white tents to the right back of this live webcam from Trimpers. Check out the webcam page here, and Trimpers here.
In 2019, over 400 boats registered to fish in the White Marlin Open and over 1,000 white marlins were caught during the first three days of the tournament. In 2023, over 400 boats are again registered and the winning purse is over $10 million!
Many of us love to watch the boats head into the ocean anytime after four o’clock in the morning and all have to return to have their catch weighed in by 9:30 pm. All lines have to be out of the water at 3:30 pm. There are some exceptions, like when you are fighting a blue marlin. All anglers who catch a fish in the tournament can fly fish flags to show what they have caught. There is a long history and even a protocol to flying fish flags. The best article I could find on this practice is by Captain Karl Anderson on MarlinMag.com.
Flying flags has a long tradition in seamanship and conveys much meaning to others on the water. We will focus on the fish flags flown by competitors in the White Marlin Open in Ocean City, Maryland.
Fish Flags on Boats
Flying fish flags communicates to others what you caught. It is also used as marketing to communicate your prowess. For those of us on the shore, it’s a great way to know what’s coming to the weighing scales. Frequently, those closer to the inlet will radio ahead and tell the tournament officials which flags are flying on incoming boats. The officials in turn tell the spectators which fish will soon be at the scales. According to Captain Anderson, traditionally, the flags should be on the rigger in order of species size. Billfish take precedence over other species. This means that typically, the bluefin flag flies above the others, but in Ocean City’s White Marlin Open, the white marlin flag is first. Anglers hoisting flags should fly each flag with a flag width separating them. If done this way, observers can more easily see from a distance what flags are flying. Captain Anderson also says that keeping the flags down 1/4 of the way from the top of the rigger makes them more visible. I’m not sure what you do when you’ve caught fifteen fish as I saw in 2019’s tournament. Small red flags with the letter “T” flown under a fish flag means that the fish was tagged before being released. In Ocean City, the upside down flags mean the fish was caught and released as was the practice in the 70s and 80s when releasing fish became more popular. Elsewhere in the world, according to Captain Anderson, fish flags flying upside down means the fish was taken and a flag showing a swimming fish, right side up, means the fish was released and swam away.
You NEVER fly your fish flags the day after your catch. Captain Anderson describes seeing another captain’s flags removed by other anglers and nailed to the dock in Ocean City when that angler neglected to take them down before morning.
Sundot, CaptHarry, and Others have complete sets of fish flags. Here are some versions for the primary fish in the White Marlin Open:
White Marlin
Blue Marlin
Sailfish
Shark
Tuna
Yellowfin Tuna Flag You can buy one at TournamentCable.com
Bluefin Tuna
Dolphin/Mahi-Mahi/Dorado
Wahoo
Here is a wahoo flag which you can buy from https://www.united-states-flag.com/
Picture it! 1974. Jim Motsko comes up with an off the wall idea- on his honeymoon!- about a sport fishing tournament hosted right here in Ocean City, Maryland. We need a buy in? $1,000? That’ll work. How many boats do we have? 57. That’ll do. How much can fishermen win in prize money? Top prize $5,000? Let’s do it.
Picture it! 2023- Yes- That’s 50 years later! How many boats do we have? 408. How many anglers? 3,500. How much do we have in prize money? $10 million. Head nods.
That First Full Week of August Feeling
The town literally feels like it’s vibrating with excitement. Traffic on the Route 50 Bridge is building with locals and tourists coming from near and far to see what is absolutely the most talked about week of summer. It’s Marlin Week! Bill fish are reported to be hot at the canyons and first mates and captains rig their lines, prep their bait, and polish up their gorgeous Viking boats ready to take the leaderboard.
But no one knows the excitement of this week more than The Motsko Family. 50 years ago, Jim Motsko changed the bill fishing scene by creating the largest and richest bill fishing tournament in the world!
The White Marlin Open- Then and Now
From 1974 to 2023, the White Marlin Open has had an incredible 50 year run. It’s small start with only 57 boats to over 400 boats last year in 2022, it’s projected an even larger number due to the incredible milestone year.
When asked how the tournament has expanded throughout the years, Sasha Motsko replied, “just about everything!” From the number of boats to the expansion of Marin Fest, Motsko says it’s been exciting growing up to see it. “This year has been the most exciting year of all. The tournament is older than I am. And it’s been incredible to be a part of something so big.”
Another change in the tournament from over the years has been the expansion of the coast. In the beginning, anglers were only allowed to drive out of the Ocean City, Maryland inlet. However, now in 2023, boats can come from as far north as Barnegat, New Jersey and as far south as Rudee Inlet, Virginia Beach.
“Off Season” Work
Jennifer Rutter Malcolm – WMO boats heading towards the inlet for check-in, view from Marlin Fest
Despite what many think, putting on a memorable event like the White Marlin Open is a year round job. With one week of fishing celebrations comes months of prep work before and after. Between the marketing and promoting Jim Motsko’s daughters, Sasha and Madelyne, also help delegate the online sales portion. Christmas time is a prime time for the White Marlin Open as well as their holiday sale opens.
The weeks leading up to the tournament are extremely busy as you can imagine. Between registering boats, collecting buy ins, and coordinating a live steam on their homepage, it’s just the tip of the iceberg. Managing the extended videography work with the addition of multiple drones this year has been a task as well.
A Golden Prize for a Golden Anniversary
A golden anniversary deserves a golden celebration!
This golden anniversary is not going unnoticed for sure. This year’s pay out will be a record $10 million, surpassing 2022 by well over a million dollars. And a special $50,000 take all category has been added to commemorate the 50th anniversary. This prize will go to the angler who catches the heaviest white marlin. Good luck!
Fun Facts You Didn’t Know About The White Marlin Open
Local author Katherine Ruskey’s fiction novel based on The White Marlin Open.
Did you know that there is no minimal age to fish. One year a 14 year old boy won! Other years, fishermen who had never caught a bill fish won. It’s really anyone’s game.
The White Marlin Open is so popular that even celebrities come from far and wide to fish. Most people have seen that the NBA star, Michael Jordan come on his 80’ Viking. Another year Food Network celebrity chef, Emeril Lagasee participated and other years some country music celebrities. Yee-Haw!
Speaking of far and wide, when asked “how far has someone traveled to participate in the open,” Sasha Motsko replied, “All over the world! It’s the biggest tournament in the world. But I do remember a group of three fishermen that traveled all the way from Ireland to come and fish.” This gives a whole other meaning to their Irish “fish and chips.”
Not only is the open popular in the fishing community, but it’s also popular in the reading community as well. Local author, Katherine Ruskey, wrote a fiction beach novel called Marlin Week, based on three captains that fish in the tournament. It’s only 7 chapters long, one chapter for each day of the tournament beginning on Sunday at the captain’s meeting.
Marlin Fest at Ocean City’s Inlet
There are lots of vendors at Marlin Fest 2023 in the Inlet Parking lot.
Marlin Fest, the free celebratory festival located at the infamous Ocean City Inlet will continue again this year. However with it’s growing popularity, Marlin Fest has expanded. Hours are now extended from 11a-9:15pm. Several more vendors have been added for patrons’ enjoyment from food and drink, to jewelry and books. Live music will also be played throughout the event as well.
Marlin Fest is also very family friendly. There will be a jumbotron set up streaming the live weigh ins from Harbour Island Marina. Visitors can bring chairs and sand toys to set up while enjoying a relaxing evening watching the fishing boats come in from their long days at sea. In addition to plenty of space, there are areas for cornhole and sand tennis set up as well. There is definitely something for everyone at Marlin Fest.
Don’t miss out on any of the fun this year. If you can’t make it in person, you can watch the live stream of the White Marlin Open on their website. And to all fishing in this year’s 50th Golden Anniversary White Marlin Open- Tight Lines!
Carol Cross grew up in a farming family. She spent her childhood tending the family garden, canning vegetables for the winter, and watching her father and grandfather farm their 500 acres. She decided to continue the family tradition with her husband, Shawn. They have been growing their own food for over 25 years. About a decade ago, their small vegetable garden began garnering interest from their neighbors, and nine years ago Cross Farms was born. What began as a lifestyle choice, has grown into a 3½ acre Naturally Grown farm in Berlin, Maryland. Cross Farms is dedicated to providing for the needs of their community. When you choose to buy local, you are supporting committed and passionate farmers like Carol and Shawn.
Farmer Carol Cross on her farm in Showell. Photo Credit: Sarah Murray
To meet the high market demand for certain products while maintaining their natural growing methods, Carol and Shawn intercrop their plants with “friend” plants. “Some vegetables you can plant side by side and they do extremely well, such as amaranth next to tomatoes, peas next to carrots, and cabbage next to lettuce. All these pairings grow well together and do not have any competition. But, say you put a watermelon next to your potatoes, you will not get any watermelon, you want to follow a ‘friend’ list, as well as know your ‘enemy’ plants.” Carol is referring to the concept of companion (or friend) planting.
Companion planting is a natural growth method utilized by many small-scale farms to help improve the vigor and health of plants in a small space. Companion plants can improve flavor, repel insects, deter diseases, and encourage faster growth. For example, basil is a good companion plant for tomatoes because it deters aphids, which can devastate tomato crops. However, cabbage would be an “enemy” plant because it will take away nutrients from the tomato plants, preventing growth. Intercropping is only one of the many ways Carol and Shawn protect their crops and their land.
Produce growing on Cross Farms in Showell. Photo Credit: Sarah Murray
DID YOU KNOW? 3/4 of the world’s flowering plants and approximately 35% of the world’s food crops depend on animal pollinators to reproduce. It is estimated that 1 out of every 3 bites of food we eat exists because of animal pollinators like bees, butterflies, moths, birds, bats, beetles, and other insects. Another cost-effective way to encourage growth and protect the environment is to plant pollinators. One of Carol’s major recommendations for any gardener or farmer would be to focus on building up habitat that attracts birds, insects, and other pollinators. “Something as simple as a wildflower garden can be beneficial.” On Cross Farms, they have various groups of wildflowers to attract pollinators,and on-farm pollinator conservation is a win-win situation for Cross Farms and the pollinators. Pollinator populations are declining in many parts of the U.S., and these declines are harmful to agricultural productivity and the health of our natural environment. Adding pollinator habitat to farm production increases the number of crop pollinators, which, in turn, leads to higher quality and quantity crop yields.
A shot of Cross Farms. Photo Credit: Sarah Murray
Carol understands the important role farmers play in the Coastal Bays watershed and she encourages everyone to come to their farm to simply learn. “I absolutely encourage people to come and experience the farm.
Cross Farms produce is currently available at their farm stand located at 9933 Pitts Road, Berlin, MD. They also sell at The Berlin Farmers Market (open May – September), which is open on Sundays from 9:00am – 1:00pm. Please call (410) 251-6824 to schedule a pick-up or delivery. They also offer a variety of boxed vegetables at wholesale prices. For further inquiries please email crossfarms@mediacombb.net or visit their Facebook or Instagram.
Carol also sat down with Maryland Coastal Bays Program to talk about her passion for food. Watch it here.
Everyone here at oceancity.com was extremely impressed with the Knott family sand castle. Let’s find a little more about the Knott Family and their award winning sand castle.
How long have you been vacationing in Ocean City? 20 years
Family Favorites
It was truly a team effort when it came to constructing.
Morning Activity: sunrise walks and morning photos
Beach or Pool: Beach!
Favorite Beach Snack: Thrashers Fries
Must have items in your beach bag: Sand castle toys, shovels, mesh bags for shelling, and sunscreen.
Breakfast Spot: Beach House Restaurant at Castle in the Sand
Lunch Spot: Dough Roller
Dinner Restaurant:Hoopers Crab House! We can’t do Ocean City without visiting Hoopers!
Boardwalk Store: it’s a tie between Kite Loft and Old Time Photos
Ice Cream Flavors: Black Cherry, Vanilla
Popcorn Flavors: Kettle Corn and caramel
Walk the boardwalk or ride the tram? Walk the Boardwalk
Beach nap or swim in the ocean? Swim in the Ocean
Tell All
Look at the detail in the steps on this castle!
Who sleeps in later on vacation? Ashlyn
Who is the better mini golf player? Robert
Who packs the most clothes? Stacy
Who gets the most excited to come to Ocean City? Dawson
Who is most likely to jump in the ocean first? Robert
Who is most likely to want to ride The Tidal Wave Roller Coaster? Allyson
In 50 words or less, explain why you love Ocean City.
Ocean city is a great place for quality time. Building sandcastles, flying kites, shelling the beach offers so many opportunities to have fun together and make memories. Seeing the sunrise over the water and hearing the waves, it is a wonderful and calming experience.
We couldn’t agree more, Knott Family. Making memories in Ocean City Maryland is one of the best parts about being at the beach….and the ice cream helps, too!
Pick a group of friends and book now. Only 12 seats on this cruise.
Choosing the $79 sunset cruise on the Alyosha, a 50′ catamaran hosted by Shore Craft Beer, is an unparalleled experience that promises to create lasting memories in Ocean City, Maryland. This unique opportunity not only allows you to witness the breathtaking beauty of the setting sun over the tranquil waters but also offers the chance to indulge in a selection of premium local craft beers curated just for you, adding a touch of sophistication and enjoyment to the outing. Unlike other options at the same price point in Ocean City, this cruise combines 2 hours of relaxation, picturesque views, and the delightful taste of locally brewed beers, making it a well-rounded and unforgettable investment. Whether you’re a beer enthusiast or simply seeking a serene escape, the Alyosha sunset cruise guarantees to offer exceptional value and a truly remarkable journey on the enchanting Maryland coast.
What To Expect
Ann Hillyer, the CEO of Shore Craft Beer has booked to boat to allow you to have a real local craft beer experience. Ann will contact you as soon as you book to ask for your preferred beer style preferences. She will ensure that you have options on the boat. She has worked to make the Shore a top craft beer destination since 2014 when she founded Shore Craft Beer with her team at OceanCity.com. They host several festivals in Ocean City throughout the year including the upcoming 9th annual Octoberfest at Sunset Park on October 28th.
The Shore Craft Beer App will have information on the cruise. It will also have information on the beers available and the local breweries that produced them. We ask that you have the App downloaded before we leave the dock.
You will board the Alyosha at the dock near Pier 23 in West Ocean City.
You will arrive at the dock at 5:30 so you can board and be ready for your 5:45 departure. The Sail Alyosha is a 50′ catamaran that has sailed the world and awaits your arrival at the dock next to Pier 23 in the West Ocean City harbor. The Alyosha is a family affair. Your Shore Craft Beer Cruise will be ably handled by Captains Dave Butz and owner Steve Butz’s daughter, Sara, herself a newly minted captain.
Captain Dave will give a safety briefing and you can pick your beer before you sail.
Dave will give a safety briefing and then you will let Ann know which beer you would like to have first. All guests aboard can settle yourself on the bow or in the cabin as we motor out of the harbor. Then we motor south behind Assateague towards the park. If the wind is good, the captain and crew will unfurl the appropriate sails and the motor may be cut so you can experience the quiet that only a sailboat can deliver.
Shore Craft Beer will ensure that you have beer you will enjoy.
As we glide along, you may be treated to the dolphins, ospreys, and wild ponies that we frequently see on this trip.
If the wind is right, the sails go up and you glide along in peaceful silence.
This boat has two heads, bathrooms for the landlubbers, that can be used by those on the boat so there is no need to stop to use the facilities. We turn north and head for home as the sun lowers in the sky.
You will get a taste of Baltimore’s Taharka Brothers Ice Cream as you sail back to the dock.
Sara and Dave take ice cream orders and give everybody a sample of the wildly delicious Taharka Bros Ice Cream. There is even a non-dairy option!
Participants will enjoy their second beer at their leisure. Additional beers can be arranged.
Dave, Sara, and Ann are onboard to answer questions and enhance your experience of the beautiful waters behind Assateague as well as to help educate you about the breweries and beer available in this area.
Sunsets are beautiful, and are guaranteed on this cruise.
Then, you will glide back into the harbor just as the sun goes down. You dock back where you started at Pier 23 relaxed, happy, and ready for another adventure.
Learn Something, Enjoy Local Craft Beer, Watch a Sunset from the Water for $79!
Where can you
learn about and enjoy local craft beer from an expert in the area, AND
have 2 beers included, AND
enjoy a 2 hour sail on a 50′ catamaran with TWO BATHROOMS, AND
sample fabulous ice cream, AND
look for wild ponies, dolphins, and ospreys, AND
watch the sun go down while on the water for ONLY $79?
The answer is nowhere! There are only 12 seats on the boat so if you want to go, you will need to book immediately! BOOK NOW!
There is no better way to spend $75 than a 2 hour sunset cruise on the Alyosha with Shore Craft Beer!
Thank you for all the wonderful photos you shared with us this week for our Photo Friday Contest. We received pictures of sunrises and sunsets, old friends and new friends, fireworks, French fries, baby’s first time in Ocean City, siblings hanging out, and everyone making memories which will last a life time. We love receiving photos taken during your vacation here in Ocean City Md, and we have put together a selection of your pictures sent to us this week. This week’s randomly selected winner of two FREE tickets to Jolly Roger Amusement Parks is Tina Wagner for this great picture of someone who enjoys the beach all day long in Ocean City. Congratulations Tina! Keep taking pictures of Ocean City, and be on the look out for our next Photo Friday Contest starting tomorrow, Friday August 4th, on Facebook, and please remember to include a sentence telling us what’s going on in your picture!
Please be aware, we will ALWAYS ANNOUNCE THE WINNER AS A POST, never in comments, and we will NEVER ASK YOU TO CLICK on anything. Please do not respond to any comments that say you have won. We block and report any users who pretend to be us. We do not have any membership opportunities. We NEVER ask for a credit card.
Tina Wagner – Enjoying the beach from sun up to sun down. Our happy place
Shannon Nicole -Beautiful walk after dinner!Tiffany Chamberlain Bock – From July 12. Perfect morningKristy Ann – Nothing like an early morning trip down to the beach to collect seashells in your pajamas. This was taken outside of the Princess Royale.Stacey Arthur – our annual picture at the beach with our twinsBeth Patrick McCord – View from outside fish tails. Looking towards the bay.Kristie Cameron -Maryjanes first trip to the beach! (Dog beach) She’s loves swimming and would rather be in the water than anywhere else. We traveled all the way from Morgantown, WV for her to experience salt water and waves from the ocean before she gets to old. (She’s 9). In the summer we find a new swimming spot every year and go “waterfall chasing” back home in WV but I knew it was time for her to experience the ocean.Ashley Branagan – Sand Is the New Snow! We take our annual Christmas card photos at the beach each year!Gigi Conti Crowley – Nothing like the OCMD views. As seen on 52nd streetLauren Lower Shutt – We recently came to visit family that lives in ocean city and our daughter got to spend the week with her cousin!Jana Wagoner – My son’s baseball team and their families enjoyed a great meal at Fish Tales while playing in a tournament earlier this year.Shari Bell – At the anglers restaurant waiting for the foodie tour to start… So much fun and the view was awesomeTammy Ann – Sisters
Marissa Shannon – Kids had the best time by PARKrystal Clark – OC Sunrise!Lisa Dillon – First bite of Thrashers! I don’t know if the seagulls or kids ate more!Manie Gartrell – Dad trying to hold the wave back lolBecky Janellen – Now bring me that horizonJana Wagoner – My son’s baseball team and their families enjoyed a great meal at Fish Tales while playing in a tournament earlier this year.Emily Pridgen – All the favorite things the rides, the rocks, the sunsets, the water the beach and family timeJohn Gowaty – This is my family on the 9th street pier. My grand kids catch crabs there every year. Fourth of July weekendAmber Baumgardner – My baby girl, Brooklynn’s first beach trip!! She is 8 months old and absolutely loves to play in the sand!! I also visited Ocean City for the first time when I was around her age.Jessica Weller – When you arrive at 9:30am but can’t check in until 4pm, you go lay on the beach and swim in the ocean ❤️ water was PERFECT last week!
Gabrielle Berri – Prepping little brother for next year (now this years) first haunted house 👻 telling him there’s nothing to be afraid of:) We go in a couple weeks and i can’t wait since he’s big enough to go on!
Barbara Vitabile – All 4 grandkids together, soaking up all oc has to offer.. lost time was 2 yrs agoStephanie Miller – Finally got up for the sun rise last week and it did not disappointDeb Lake – July 4th 2023 grandkids first time in O.CLaura Ward – We had a celebration of life bonfire for my Father in law who passed in January. It was the most beautiful evening. I love how our bonfire crew unknowingly turned into a heart. He loved Ocean CityMeg Laurinaitis – Hub’s milestone Birthday October 2022 at the inlet pier. He’s got our whole world in his hands.
Linda Tittiger – With my grandbabies
Beth Patrick McCord – View from the top of the Farris wheel before it was moved.
Kourtney Graziani – Our first time staying at the carousel hotel was a success! The pure joy on my Gunther’s face says it all!
Danielle Blair – My favorite view!
Lee Ann Doane – boardwalk parking lot!!! w my daughter
Katelyn Powell – To meeting new friends on the beachYomaira Diaz – Nothing more beautiful than the view of the oceanSarah Sypolt – Haunted House electrocution.
Sonny Hann – My wife Waves are coming oh no our friends daughter time too get outta dodge 7-2023 ocean city md
Sam Hain – We started taking pics 2 years ago with our Baby Yoda at random spots in Ocean City Maryland. Now it’s tradition 😂 This was taken a few nights ago.
Debby Brown – Birmingham Harrell 3 generations beachin it up
Jeff Loff – June OC sunrise!
Breanna Fernandez – my sons favorite place in the whole world is the beach & jolly rogers that’s all he wanted to do for his birthday
Sonny Hann – My wife Waves are coming oh no our friends daughter time too get outta dodge 7-2023 ocean city md
Kayla Englehardt – Enjoying a windy beach day in June this year
Cindy Ballew Hurley – Fishtale and some Snapchat filter
Cindy Ballew Hurley – It will be fun they said
Chelle Belle – Big sis, Lily, walking with her little brother, Oliver, heading toward the Boardwalk for some ice cream.
Lana Eisenhart Souder – My daughter and my grandkids enjoying the beach!
Holly Elizabeth – My dad and my son looking at a plane flying by while playing on the Boardwalk playground
Ginger Baltimore – My JuJu’s first encounter with one of the locals.
Darla Lytle – My granddaughters wedding on the beach it was beautiful
Missy Ryan – My son and other surfers in prayer before hitting the waves.
Joan Gregorowicz Hager – Sandy hair, don’t care! Cousins making beach memories OCMD
Carly Brzoska – Baby boy announcement
Krista Knight – 13th St. Sunrise
Bill LaRoss – First time riding bikes in OCMD.
Jade Jordan – Memorial day weekend! We are planning to come back before the summer is over!
Lisa Falba – Welcome to OC!
Gina Twardoski Reitter – The one-legged seagull!
Tiffani Dawn – The legendary tire . To u this might be a picture of just ppl taking a pic with the tire . To me it’s the last beach vacation I got to create with my momma. To my momma it was her in her glory with her grandkids. She love oc . I will forever cherish oc n the memories I had with her . R.i.p April 28 2023
Elizabeth Ann Hayes – Santa sighting 7/20/23
Lois Wright – Been coming to OC since I was a kid. Brought my daughters now another generation…. Grandkids. So much to do for everyone.
Christina Gomez – Gorgeous sunset beach pics before night fishing on 90th street
Debby Brown – Birmingham Harrell – Decorating for Breast cancer awareness parade
Linda Jarboe – After the storm…GOD IS BEAUTIFUL
Deb Lake – July 4th 2023 grandkids first time in O.C
Misty Hanna – My Thrashers “Fry Monster”. This was our last trip as a family to OC with my oldest son. He loved OC, loved Thrashers….. – He passed away 2 months after our trip. So it’s a tradition now every year we go to OC we have to get Thrashers….
Patti Moore – Girls weekend getaway with the best friend
Kelly O’Keane – Always a favorite part of a visit to the boardwalk in Ocean City!
Karen Beardsley – Sunset boat ride by the inlet
Dawn Wright-Diggs – My crew
Regina Ianozi – Being goofy with family, and having fun
Megan Valentine – God bless America 🇺🇸 and ocean city
Sabrina Livermore – All of my daughters dreams came true when she saw Santa at the beach. She could not believe it and couldn’t stop staring at him. He noticed and came over to her. My daughter couldn’t stop smiling she started crying tears of joy. She talked about it for days and days afterwards saying how she saw Santa on vacation at the beach! OCMD 2023.
Krissi Smith – 125th st found me 2 years ago when we moved from midtown to north Oc. Best decision ever!!
OCEAN CITY, MD — July 27, 2023 — The Art League of Ocean City invites the public to an expanded First Friday opening reception that includes a first-ever neighborhood block party and a celebration of the Art League’s 60th birthday. The event is Aug. 4, 2023, 5-7 p.m. at the Ocean City Center for the Arts, 502 94th St. bayside. Admission is free.
“This is a golden opportunity to come out and meet your neighbors at our first-ever combination First Friday, block party, and birthday party,” Rina Thaler, executive director of the Art League, said. “You’ll enjoy a big 60th birthday cake, live music, new art exhibits, hors d’oeuvres, complimentary refreshments, book signings, artisan offerings, raffles, and the chance to participate in a community mural. We invite everyone to join us.”
First Friday will spill into the bayfront courtyard of the Arts Center. Area businesses will provide hors d’oeuvres for the event, including Lombardi’s, Blue Fish, Coffee Beanery, and Kona Ice. PKS Investments is sponsoring complimentary beverages. David Smith and Robert Johnson will demonstrate pottery throwing techniques.
The Thaler Gallery hosts an exhibition by three Eastern Shore artists who are masters of realism. The show entitled “True to Life: Contemporary Realism” features the work of Megan Burak-Lowe of West Ocean City, Md., Gordon Inyard of Millville, De., and John Schisler of Georgetown, De.
Megan Burak-Lowe is a contemporary realist artist working mostly in oil. A graduate of Stephen Decatur High School and Salisbury University, she has won multiple awards in juried shows and galleries around Maryland, New York, and Washington, D.C. Several of her pieces have been purchased by Salisbury University as part of their permanent collection. Her inspiration is drawn from her emotions and the world as she sees it.
Megan Burak shows off her art with The Art League.
Gordon Inyard, a graduate of the State University of New York, creates paintings of vintage diners and other roadside structures and signs. He has exhibited and sold work in various galleries in New York, New Mexico, and California. Since moving to Delaware, he continues to paint similar indigenous images such as the diner in Seaford, De. and the Flamingo Motel in Ocean City. His preference is to use acrylic paint for its versatility.
Gordon Inyard is famous for his vintage diner art work.
John Schisler was born in Baltimore and began painting at the Conrad Miller Studio in Fells Point at the age of 17 where he began using Maroger mediums and the techniques of the Dutch Masters. He learned to make and use “black oil,” a basis for the mediums of such masters as Titian, Rubens, and Rembrandt. In 2011, John began to pursue a full-time career in art and by 2020 was juried into Plein Air Easton, one of the most prestigious outdoor painting events in the country.
John Schisler took part in The Art League’s Pleain Air event in 2020.
The annual Beverly Bassford Memorial Juried Group Show continues in The Sisson Galleria until Aug. 10, when the gallery will switch over to the Artists Paint OC annual exhibit.
The Spotlight Gallery opens a show by three local artists honoring the August White Marlin Open fishing tournament. Joanne Guilfoil of Selbyville, De., a retired Professor Emeritus, completed paintings while writing the 50-year history of the White Marlin Open, a book with a planned release in fall 2023, and prints of these paintings will be on exhibition.
Jim Motsko will be exhibiting photos taken during the WMO. He has lived in Ocean City full time since 1970 and is the founder and president of the fishing tournament. While attending the University of Maryland College Park, he worked as a fishing boat mate in Ocean City and has been in the real estate sales business since 1970.
Lisa Marie Penn of Ocean Pines, Md. studied at the Maryland Institute College of Art in Baltimore and in 2005 opened 2 Hot Art Chicks Gallery in her hometown neighborhood of Hampden. She currently works as a full-time commission artist out of her home studio and teaches Painted Screen Workshops with the goal of passing down this traditional Baltimore art form.
Erika Forsythe of Salisbury, Md. is the Studio E artist for August. A fine art photographer, her career includes touring on the national junior tennis circuit, hosting a CNN Headline News show, and farming raspberries to become a certified jam artisan. Georgia Tech, her alma mater, named her as one of the university’s greatest African American Scholar-Athletes of all time. Forsythe intends for her photos to serve as moments of Zen.
Marisa Longo of West Ocean City, Md. is the Artisan in Residence for August. Just Tree Creations is the marriage of art & jewelry that developed from many years at Glitter & Gold, the artist’s former location on the Ocean City Boardwalk. Longo’s interest in jewelry is the organic nature of the many combinations of precious metals, genuine stones & shells.
The Staircase Gallery opens a new six-month show by a mother and daughter team. Laura Mayer Kelley of Salisbury, MD. changed course to focus on painting after a three-decade career in medicine and degrees from Harvard University and Emory University School of Medicine. Daughter L. Morgan Kelley grew up in Salisbury inspired by her grandfather who was a blacksmith and now teaches elementary art and science in Austin, Tx.
Art shows at the Art League’s satellite galleries continue through August. Debbi Dean of Berlin, Md. exhibits her work at the Coffee Beanery on 94th St. and Coastal Hwy. Barbara Stepura of White Plains, Md. shows her paintings in the Princess Royale lobby, 9100 Coastal Hwy.
The Art League of Ocean City is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting artistic expression and appreciation for the creative arts in our communitythrough education, exhibits, scholarship, programs, and community art projects. Funding is provided in part by the Worcester County Arts Council, Maryland State Arts Council, and the National Endowment of the Arts, organizations dedicated to cultivating a vibrant cultural community where the arts thrive.
Thank you for all the wonderful photos you shared with us this week for our Photo Friday Contest. We received pictures of fireworks, storm clouds, baby’s first time in the ocean, siblings getting on, teenager’s having fun, early mornings till late night on the beach, and visitors making the most of the weather. We love receiving photos taken during your vacation here in Ocean City Md, and we have put together a selection of your pictures sent to us this week. This week’s randomly selected winner of two FREE tickets to Jolly Roger Amusement Parks is Luisa Dalo for this great picture of her family enjoying an Ocean City sunrise. Congratulations Luisa! Keep taking pictures of Ocean City, and be on the look out for our next Photo Friday Contest starting tomorrow, Friday July 28th, on Facebook, and please remember to include a sentence telling us what’s going on in your picture!
Please be aware, we will ALWAYS ANNOUNCE THE WINNER AS A POST, never in comments, and we will NEVER ASK YOU TO CLICK on anything. Please do not respond to any comments that say you have won. We block and report any users who pretend to be us. We do not have any membership opportunities. We NEVER ask for a credit card.
Luisa Dalo – Family vacation – ❤️my family ❤️ Ocean CityLauren Lower Shutt – Visiting family that lives in ocean city for the week and love a night stroll down the boardwalk!
Misty Hanna – Happiness comes in waves ….. My granddaughters from SC absolutely love OCMD.
Diana Niedomanski Poole – Northside Park Sundaes in the Park!
Jenni O’Brocki – Always time for some sibling love while riding bikes on the boardwalk
Tammy Mackell – Clearly the beach makes Isabelle and Leo very happy.
Jennifer Stevens – Family fun time on the Tipsy Tiki!
Angie Born Wright – Macky’s Bayside bar and grill was our favorite place to eat
Peggy Gallagher – Scopes for your pictures.
Jennifer Hughes Fagan – Our family received this beach buggy as a gift. It has been a game changer for us as far as getting our special needs daughter on the beach. We used to have to carry her down. As you can see, she is happy to be able to get to the beach so much easier now.
Holly Elizabeth – My son enjoying his favorite treat on the boardwalk!
Missy Ryan – What Hope and Beauty look like after the storm
Stacey Arthur – My twins found their grandfather dedication brick on the boardwalk by the fire fighter statue.
Michelle Wasley Rovine – Buried deep in the sand under the sunshine!
Jeff Cetnar – Built my ’51 plymouth and did the 14 hr round trip to stay at the Tiki Beach House Ocean City, MD…..just had to make sure i took the time for the perfect pic
Melanie R Blair – Always hunting Seashells on the Beach 🏝️ ocean city Md
Kelly Barnhart – Oc crabs r the best
Peggy Marshall – Sisters who love coming to OC every year
Jennifer Wydrzynski – View from the OC Rocket. So much fun!
Kimberly Shaffer – Ocean city happy!!
Shanna Jeffrey Hadel – A beautiful view atop the Ferris Wheel
Becky Gaydos – We love oc md!!
Michael Smith – Our ride night was a blast!
Michael Smith – Our ride night was a blast!
Misty Hanna – My 2 granddaughters Lifeguard training
Stephanie Ryan – These girls countdown the days to their yearly OC vacation always the last week of July!
Melissa O Shea – We were visiting Ocean City, MD for my daughter’s dance competition. We decided to head to the beach one early evening before hitting the boardwalk. This photo is of my autistic 6 year old son walking into the ocean by himself and by his own accord for the very first time ever! I captured the exact moment the water first began to hit his toes and will cherish it forever. What a great first!
Tracy Donovan Monk – Great night on the boardwalk, new board from Get Gnarly skate shop!
Brittany Lloyd – Enjoying the ocean waves with my girl
David Lawrence – Celebrating Christmas in July on the boardwalk!!!
Natalie Garnand Pritchett – My Little Fisherman
Robyn Costanzo Marsden – My first grand baby dipping her toes into the ocean~3 months old
Jess Lynn – My 18 year old enjoying our favorite fries
Jaime Walker Luse – Fireworks view from 11th Street
Shelly Smith – Waiting for sun to rise on 7/11/23
Karen Ulakovic Drass We went crabbing. Caught more than we bargained for. Crab pinching a Terrapin’s butt. (No animals were harmed in this photo. Both crab and Terrapin were released. )
Donna Levin Price – Early morning beach vibes from Marigot condominiums from room balcony
Ashley Cox – Standing at hotel
Stacey Virginia – My kids actually getting along and playing together on the beach at 56th street.
Victoria Sadler – My grandson loving driving the boat at Trimpers.
Christina Ibex – Jolly rogers water park is our first stop every year!
Doreen Baranowski – Beach baby on 65 th
Lana Eisenhart Souder – The sunset on the bay. Love it!
Aimee McHugh Smith – Enjoying the new Saltwater 75. Beautiful view
Leslie R. Pollard – Enjoying the beach
Steve Kubat Jr – Beach fireworks
Victoria O’Neal – North side park. An under rated spot in OC.
Gigi Conti Crowley – Lunch!
Luisa Dalo – Family vacation – ❤️my family ❤️ Ocean City
Joan Gregorowicz Hager – What a view! Quit wishin’ Go fishin’
Sharon A. Habighurst – We bring our granddaughter to OC every year. This year her dad surprised her. This is Madi’s first year riding the waves.
Movies on the Beach are a great date night activity or a great family outing. If you are looking for something to do on Monday or Wednesday night, then check out the movies on the beach. Ocean City Rec and Parks will be hosting Movies on the Beach for about 3 more weeks – through August 16th. Large inflatable movie screens will be set up and you can bring your blankets, chairs, and snacks. Movies begin around 8:30.
Two Movie Locations on the Beach
Getting ready for a beach movie! Taken at The Carousel hotel on July 3.
The Carousel Hotel (118th street) and 27th street. Movies are scheduled for Wednesdays in North Ocean City at the Carousel Resort Hotel and on the beach at 27th Street on Mondays. All movies are weather permitting and times may be subject to change.
I reported back in March on the new Go Green initiative that has been adopted in Ocean City, Maryland thanks to two local guys, Justin Chamberlain and Garvey Heiderman. I felt it was time for an update to see the progress and growth of one of the top initiatives Ocean City has seen and give you a sneak peek into the actual process.
Josh and Garvey knew that OC Go Green would make a huge impact on the Ocean City community!
How OC Go Green Works
Like clockwork, two times a week, sometimes three now that it’s the summer season, the compost truck shows up in Bishopville, just a few miles outside of Ocean City to dump off its weekly haul. Backing into place, volunteers unload a truck full of 30 gallon compost bins that have been collected from various restaurants around Ocean City. Filled to the brim with orange peels from those famous Orange Crushes, crab shells (yes-crab shells can be composted!) from those relaxed family dinners, and every other compostable food you can imagine ends up here in this pile of compost.
30 gallon trash cans are given to each restaurant that volunteers to participate.
Compost is mixed up to help begin the process.
The Process of Go Green in Ocean City
Bigger plans are in the future to expand on the composting initiative.
Restaurants are given not only 30 gallon compost bins, but compostable plastic bags to collect their compostable trash. The bins are carefully dumped then mixed with the help of a small loader, a few pick axes, and a lot of sweat from local volunteers. The compost is doused with water to help initiate and begin the composting process. Compost is mixed for several minutes while being watered, then moved further down the lot to another area where the compost will sit for up to three weeks at a time, depending on the progress.
Go Are Goals
Did you know that crabs can be composted as well?
Founders Chamberlain and Heiderman, both graduates of local high schools here in Ocean City, Chamberlain- Chamberlain, a graduate of Stephen Decateur and Heiderman a graduate of Worcester Preparatory, saw a need for cleaning up and helping the Ocean City community. With a goal of becoming the first zero waste resort town in the entire country, the dynamic duo is well on their way. Back in March approximately nine restaurants chose to participate including Dough Roller, Long Board Cafe, and Bayside Skillet. Four months later, around twenty five restaurants are now voluntarily participating in the composting program including Mione’s, The Hobbit, Mother’s Cantina, Shotti’s, Bluefish, Bonfire, and Happy Jack Pancake House.
Helping the OCMD Community Save Money
Let them know if you’re interested in volunteering!
Not only does the composting program help the environment, it actually lightens the load on the waste collection- and saves the city money! The city doesn’t have as much of a load to collect from certain places since Go Green is collecting up to three times weekly. Less work, saving money, more compost! Sounds like a win, win, win for the town of Ocean City.
It’s Simple Science
A simple cooling system is shows to help speed up the composting process.
With a simple yet scientifically thought through cooling system, Chamberlain and Heiderman have devised a really unique way to keep the compost cooler in the summer months. Lines of PVC pipe run underneath the piles of compost with small holes drilled into them. A small but effective fan is attached to the one side of the system that blows air through the pipes to cool the piles of mulch to keep them cooler. Basic science at its finest.
Record Numbers for Go Green
This July, Go Green hit an all time record number. They were able to collect 9,530 pounds in a single weekend! And it’s only going up from there. Way to go! We can’t wait to see what the future holds.
OCEAN CITY, MD — July 25, 2023 —The Art League of Ocean City is offering a series of free pre-recorded online “Business of Art” classes with the support of a grant from the Worcester County Arts Council.
Designed for artists who want to learn more about the business side of art, these pre-recorded classes cover a variety of topics, including marketing and promotion, pricing strategies, legal issues, and financial management. Each class is taught by a professional artist or business expert who has experience in the art world and can offer valuable insights and advice.
The three classes were pre-recorded by the instructors, so viewers can access them with an internet connection from anywhere at any time. They are open to artists of all ages and skill levels, from beginners to professionals, and are free to view.
David Baxter leads an “Intro to Etsy” course, geared toward anyone considering opening an online store to market and sell their work and who doesn’t know where to start.
Abbi Custis teaches “Branding and Marketing for Artists.” Lack of marketing is a common reason why talented artists don’t generate income, and Custis reviews what’s needed in promotional toolkits.
Liz Kauffman discusses “Best Practices for Creative Professionals,” covering how to connect with an audience and where to find opportunities for making money from art.
The free pre-recorded online classes are available to access at OCart.org. Additional information is available by calling 410-524-9433.
The Art League of Ocean City is a non-profit organization dedicated to bringing the visual arts to the community through education, exhibits, scholarship, programs and community art projects. Funding for this event is in part provided by the Worcester County Arts Council, Maryland State Arts Council and the National Endowment of the Arts, organizations dedicated to cultivating a vibrant cultural community where the arts thrive.
Katie, Kristen, and Jen had a blast running in The Ocean City Half Marathon! Will you be running this year?
2023- Corrigan Sports Enterprises announced the creation of the Ocean City Running Festival today. The event will feature a full marathon, half marathon, 8k and 5k race distances. The inaugural event is slated for October 28th, 2023 – this event will fall between Corrigan Sports established Baltimore Running Festival and Bay Bridge Run.
Lee Corrigan, President of Corrigan Sports – “We’re constantly looking to grow our footprint throughout the Mid-Atlantic region and Ocean City has always been a location of interest to us. I’d like to thank Tom Perlozzo with Ocean City Tourism for his commitment to make this event happen, along with our team who’s been working behind the scenes for months to roll out this new property!”
CSE hopes to surpass the 3,500-runner mark in year 1 with some authentic Ocean City premium items, along with Ocean City themed race medals for all finishers. The full Marathon, 8K, and 5K will start and finish in the inlet parking lot just south of the Ferris Wheel. Full marathoners will have the opportunity to run through Assateague Island National Seashore before returning to Ocean City proper. Half marathoners will be shuttled to start at Assateague Island and finish coming down the award-winning boardwalk, currently ranked one of America’s top ten boardwalks, where they will finish in the inlet parking lot overlooking breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean.
“We’re excited to be partnering with Corrigan Sports Enterprises to bring the Ocean City Running Festival to life this year and invite runners to our beautiful coastal city to experience everything our destination has to offer,” said Tom Perlozzo, Director of Tourism and Business Development for Ocean City Maryland Tourism. “In addition to the running festival, we invite attendees to explore our beautiful beaches, entertainment options, incredible cuisine and so much more.”
Running enthusiasts can follow along with all the event releases via social media: @OCRunFest
It’s no wonder The Shrimp Boat has won The Best of Ocean City Crabs! Take a look at the history, the menu, and the legacy that will continue.
Humble Beginnings for Captain Joe
Owner Joe White, holds up the original money system he and uncle had back in 1989.
Back in 1989, Captain Joe Crocetti began The Shrimp Boat as a simple market selling only shrimp and live clams with a lawn chair, a freezer box, and an umbrella. Fast forward 34 years and The Shrimp Boat is now winning local awards like The Best of Ocean City® Best Crabs. Now owned and run by Captain Joe’s nephew, Joe White, the seafood restaurant continues the legacy that Captain Joe had created.
Evolving and Expanding The Shrimp Boat
The original tip bell from The Shrimp Boat is out of commission but still rings lovely memories for the family.
People kept coming and people kept buying! But it seemed that they wanted more. 2009 was a pivotal year for the local place. Captain Joe began to cook steamed shrimp and steamed crabs for locals, but what he didn’t expect was the popularity it would bring. Outgrowing the first kitchen, which now works as the steam room, Captain Joe’s restaurant continued to grow even further. In 2010, with the request from regular customers, a few picnic tables were added. The next request? Beer of course! Captain Joe obliged but with local laws requiring inside eating in order to serve beer, inside seating was also added. Joking, nephew Joe, told his uncle that he was going to want to sell the now restaurant due to the extra work load. And that’s exactly what happened. Joe White bought The Shrimp Boat from his uncle in 2012. Captain Joe continued to work around the restaurant and relaxed outside by the market- an actual boat transom.
Joe White, current owner of The Shrimp Boat, reminisces about what the area looked like back when he was younger. 1993 was the first year they had running water. Filling two coolers, one with clean water and one with used, Captain Joe would take them home nightly, clean them out and bring them back the next day. The dynamic pair even had an extremely simple banking system. Two old fashioned metal band-aide boxes were used for bank deposits. White got nostalgic, showing off the very first tip bell that The Shrimp Boat ever had. The clapper of the bell is long gone, it no longer makes noise, but the sounds of the past are always in the back of his mind.
The Freshest Seafood
Only the freshest seafood is served. If you’re eating it today, it was swimming the day before.
Joe brings in local domestic blue crabs from Maryland and North Carolina along with local scallops, clams, shrimp, and mussels from Prince Edward Island. The crab meat from their crab cakes does not come from a can. Thank goodness! White uses his live crabs from the wholesale side of business and delivers them to local picking houses nearby. The crabs are hand picked, the meat is stored, and brought directly back to the restaurant within a day or two- never frozen. Joe and his crew travel six days a week back and forth to North Carolina to pick up fresh shrimp and pick up their hand picked crab meat. “That’s what it takes to deliver fresh seafood.”
Snow crabs legs obviously come from out of state- Alaska or even Canada.
A Generational Tradition
Everyone loves getting their hands dirty for some crab picking at The Shrimp Boat!
When Joe walks around the restaurant now, not only does he see familiar faces, he recognizes the importance of his establishment in local family traditions. Families make it a point to stop at The Shrimp Boat for crabs year after year. He sees families growing, children growing up from babies to young adults, couples having families, and continuing their traditions with their own families.
Crabs served at The Shrimp Boat are local to Maryland!Check out these virgin creamsickles! Looks like heaven on a tray.
When thinking about a menu, White had to ask What do people like to eat with crabs? The answer? Sweet corn, shrimp, scallops, string beans from local farms!
Joe decided to focus on a fresh menu but also a menu where everyone can find something they like. “Not everyone likes seafood- my wife and daughter included! I wanted to make sure everyone had a place at the table and something to enjoy. We serve the best burgers, chicken club sandwiches, and the best wings! And our wings, sweet potato fries, and french fries are all gluten free and fried in a separate fryer as well. I’m really proud of that.” Thinking about larger families that may need to accommodate allergies such as seafood and gluten, it seems as though The Shrimp Boat has really thought about everything!
A Fried Hard Crab?
Only the freshest food is served at The Shrimp Boat- that means local corn, too!
For those that have tasted a fried hard crab from The Shrimp Boat, don’t fret! White has plans to bring back the infamous fried hard crab back right after Bike Week! And for those that are saying, “What’s That?” Joe explains that it’s a fresh steamed hard crab with no seasoning, taken off the back and inside middle parts, stuffed with a crab cake, dipped in tempura batter, and then fried. If that doesn’t knock you back, I don’t know what will.
Always Support Local
Crab trucks are constantly coming in daily at The Shrimp Boat.
White went on to express his love of supporting locals. Local crabbers, local fishermen, local farms- anything local is always going to be better. It’s great to keep money in the Ocean City economy.
Employee Appreciation
The Shrimp Boat seems like a great place to work, not only because of the “outstanding customers,” but also because of the great boss they have. Several servers and crab steamers commented that work was actually “fun” because they had a great boss, a leader, and someone they were able to look up to.
Why Are We The Best
This couple drives all the way from Easton to eat crabs at The Shrimp Boat!Long time pals Kenny and Jack drive from Florida to get their steamed crab fix.
“We listen to the customers.” The only way to see if people are enjoying the food is to ask them. Joe walks the restaurant floor daily chatting with customers and asking about their dining experience. Patrons at The Shrimp Boat had wonderful things to say! “We travel all the way from Bethany to eat crabs here,” one couple said. Another family had been coming to The Shrimp Boat for over 20 years. They now bring their grandchildren to feast on their award winning crabs. Long time pals, Kenny and Jack, now live far from the Ocean City area, but make it a point to come meet up and have crabs at The Shrimp Boat as a tradition. “I can remember back when he first started steaming crabs for my family,” reminisced Jack, who comes all the way from Florida to dine on Joe’s crabs.
Continuing The Shrimp Boat Legacy
To continue being The Best of Ocean City® White plans to continue doing exactly what he’s been doing for the past 34 years. Listening to customers, bringing in fresh local seafood, and serving the Ocean City community the best crabs money can buy.
Thank you for all the wonderful photos you shared with us this week for our Photo Friday Contest. We received pictures of Fourth of July celebrations, teenager’s having fun, early mornings till late night on the beach, and visitors making the most of the weather. We love receiving photos taken during your vacation here in Ocean City Md, and we have put together a selection of your pictures sent to us this week. This week’s randomly selected winner of two FREE tickets to Jolly Roger Amusement Parks is Desiree Moore for this great picture of the girls enjoying at day at the beach. Congratulations Desiree! Keep taking pictures of Ocean City, and be on the look out for our next Photo Friday Contest starting tomorrow, Friday July 14th, on Facebook, and please remember to include a sentence telling us what’s going on in your picture!
Please be aware, we will ALWAYS ANNOUNCE THE WINNER AS A POST, never in comments, and we will NEVER ASK YOU TO CLICK on anything. Please do not respond to any comments that say you have won. We block and report any users who pretend to be us. We do not have any membership opportunities. We NEVER ask for a credit card.
Desiree Moore – We love ocean city!
Melissa Engert – Beautiful sunrise from the beach on 115th street.
Crystal Ber Ziel – Getting our game on at Marty’s play land! Our favorite arcade on the boardwalk!
Sonny Hann – Our 3 beautiful granddaughters De’Laine Brinlee & kynlee week of 6-20-23 celebrating Mimi and Pop pops 21st anniversary
Laura Carotenuto – Our girl, Bailey, loves OC!
Amanda Gipson – Sunrises are most beautiful in OC!
Wanda Sheridan – The very best grandchildren in the world
Stacey Arthur – Tropical view heading to 34th street beach
Kristen O’Neill – Enjoying the beach every second that we can
Kellie Webster Klijanowicz – Our OC loving daughter riding her bike on the boards…
Ashley Cox – Husband LOVES the fries!
Elena Mihal – Magical sunrise at Ocean City MD
Stacey Arthur – Twins enjoying the best ice cream around locally – must check out Island Creamery!
Tonya Martin – Oceanfront sunrise last week taken from Hyatt Place Ocean City/Oceanfront are always my favorite!
Tammy Ellis Curl – Prettiest flower girl on the beach!
Jessica Dauer Lowrance – Birthdays are best at the beach. We ❤️ OC!
Merissa Bankert – Paying our shark friend a visit in June! We’ll be back Labor Day!
Ben Semiatin – My awesome dad enjoying some tacos and corn at Papi’s Tacos with the owner. He made that hat look sexy
Melissa Richardson – Fishing on the beach!!!
Danielle Blair – His new favorite place! Alley Oops!
Allison Noelle – a little adventure
Missy Ryan – When Rapunzel escapes from the tower, she heads straight to Ocean City, MD.
Kimberly Negley – Future tour guide for Assateague Island, he jumped right in the water showing us hands on how to catch things ! My son loves to just be in the salty water every chance he gets but man does he love getting to see the pony’s!
Lisa Price Sewell – When it comes to the boardwalk rides, we are all smiles, mom and son
Lisa Obermeier Levitt Lape - Loving the boardwalk and a beautiful sunny day!
Rachel Karcinell – First time at the beach
Allison Noelle – sunset on the boardwalk
Heather Morgan – Dinner with a view.
Teresa Hahn-Bachtell – Hi daddy
Jenn Kuc – We all love OCMD, great time ❤️ Ocean City Rum Shack
Debora Campailla – Lots of fun
Sam Shaffern – First one in the door at Marty’s Playland!!!
Allison Noelle – sunrise on 117th
Michael Smith – Crabbing in the bay was plentiful this year. The kids love it. 7-13-23
Catie Fontaine – Gotta take a pic with the Hulk!
Stephanie Shade – Beach buddies
Ashley Cox – They loved getting picture with ocean city fire department!! Son asked fire fighter if he could see truck and they were very nice showed him everything!
Alyssa Walter – Sunset cruise with Sea Rocket. Caught the sunset and a dolphin
Santana Lynn Baker – Owens first time walking on the beach ❤️ can’t wait to come back next weekend!
Sarah Sypolt – My daughter living it up.
Dana Shilow – Looking for shells.
Christina Schultheis – Awesome view of the Boardwalk from the OC Big Wheel at Trimper’s.
Erika Meck Salinski – My 82 year old mom visits with a bucket list item every year. This year is was riding a tandem bike.
Ann Marie Delauretis – Grandson and his first Hermit Crab. We had an amazing time!
Misty Rose Lynn – My daughter Brianna and her amazing boyfriend Milton taking pictures on the beach near 30th Street. His first time at ocean city!
Joan Gregorowicz Hager – We had so much fun in June we are coming back in August! Ready, set, GO!
Brittany Young – Learning to jump and stand in the awesome waves we had this year
Jessica Horowitz – Picture perfect at Princess Royale Oceanfront Resort!
Casey Marie Shiffner – Riding waves on 84th
Christie Mccann – Sunset at Saltwater 75
Victoria O’Neal – Family beach picture. Ocean City has been our yearly vacation since we started dating in 2014. Now we are enjoying it in a different way with our growing family
Debora Campailla -Chilling at the beach
Terry Sobolewski – Sasha on her throne
Allison Noelle – “the big wheel”
Verbie Camden – Horse shoe crab assateague beach
Des Morris – Kylie, our 4 year old, wanted a hermit crab to “take the beach home with us!”
Tracy Garner-Thompson – Sunrise on 139th Street
Kristen Jones – Captain Lauren on the Tipsy Tiki celebrating her grandmother’s birthday out on the bay.
Shanna Jeffrey Hadel – First time seeing the locks on the Ocean City fishing pier.
Afton Russ – Walkway to an oasis in OC
George Lamplugh – Night time cruise on REEL NAUGHTY out of White Marlin Marina
Lucky Brittain – it’s hot out here!
Stephanie Ryan – This girl is HEAD OVER HEELS for OCMD and Jolly Rodgers!
Jennifer Kennedy – Checking the trap…bayside around 48th.
Hazel Cayetano – Beautiful sunset at Northside Park.
If you haven’t been back to the Captain’s Table located inside the Courtyard by Marriott on the Boardwalk in Ocean City, Maryland recently, then you are really missing a divine experience.
We recently met with the new chef, Mike Warman, who took us through their new menu. Not only did he describe the food, he actually prepared and plated each dish so we could get pictures and video – which you will see below. I was able to taste everything and my mouth is still watering when I watch the video and see the pictures. Just the memory is enough to make me want to go back.
I hope you enjoy this video experience at one of Ocean City’s historically favorite restaurants. We know the Captain’s Table will soon make the list of your new favorite restaurants with this new menu!
New Summer Menu Items at the Captain’s Table
New Summer menu at the Captain’s Table restaurant inside the Courtyard by Marriott Oceanfront.
Here are the 8 new dishes they described.
The Captain’s Crab Cake
The best crab cake in Ocean City from the Captain’s Table- no filler, gluten free.
This was by far the best crab cake that I have ever eaten in Ocean City. And everyone knows you can’t say that lightly here in Maryland. As you will hear in the video, they do not use filler, meaning it’s Gluten Free!
Lemon and Tarragon French Chicken
Lemon tarragon chicken from the Captain’s Table
Drizzled in a lemon tarragon butter sauce, this dish screams summer time on a plate. Light yet filling, this dish should be on the year round rotation.
Surf and Turf
A mouthwatering take of surf and turf that includes medallion tenderlion steak, stuffed crab cake shrimp.
If this itself isn’t a reason to visit, then I don’t know what is. Twin tenderloin medallions, two crab cake stuffed shrimp, with some of the creamiest mashed potatoes you’ll ever eat. I’m going back for this!
French Chicken
A classic breaded chicken in a smooth butter sauce, again with a Gluten Free Option! It’s extremely hard to find places that accommodate food allergies, but The Captain’s Table has outdone themselves.
Seared Scallop Risotto
Pan seared fresh scallop risotto that will leave you coming back time and again.
Fresh scallops in a lemon risotto with peas and peppers. This is a dish you do not want to miss out on. Again Gluten free.
Stir Fried Lobster
A spicy lobster stir fry with jasmine rice from The Captain’s Table.
If you like spice, then this is the dish for you. One and a quarter- yes that over a pound of lobster- on top of delicious stir fried vegetables over a mound of jasmine rice. This was the first dish I ever had at The Captain’s Table and I knew I had to go back to try everything else on the menu.
The Colossal Tail
A classic seafood dish. The 1 pound lobster tail from The Captain’s Table will an unforgettable experience.
A full one pound Northern Lobster, served with Old Bay lemon, and butter, you will be delighted with your choice of dinner. There’s nothing else that screams summer time dinner than a perfectly cooked lobster tail.
The Tomahawk
The show stopping 48 oz. tomahawk steak from The Captain’s Table is enough for two.
A show stopping 48 ounce full bone in ribeye steak. Chargrilled and roasted to perfection. Order as a meal to share or not!
Do yourself a favor- whether you’re on vacation or your a local like me, you must get to The Captain’s Table for a delicious dining experience that you will not soon forget. And yes, I will go down saying, “The Captain’s Table has the best crab cake that I’ve ever eaten in Ocean City.”
*Just about every dish is either Gluten free or has a Gluten free option.
