Blog - OceanCity.com

An Interview with Ocean City Air Show Pilot- Major Kristin Wolfe

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June 8, 2023

An Interview with Ocean City Air Show Pilot- Major Kristin Wolfe

Katherine Ruskey: Hi guys. I am Katie with oceanity.com and today we are thrilled to have Major Kristin Wolfe with us, who is one of the talented pilots that will be seeing this weekend in Ocean City’s air show, Saturday, and Sunday, June 10th, and 11th. Major- thank you for joining us today.

Kristin W: Of course, thanks for having me.

Katherine Ruskey: I want to know and everybody wants to know what kind of planes do you plan on flying this weekend?

Kristin W: So we fly the F 35A model, so the latest and greatest fifth generation stealth fighter, the Air Force variant.

Katherine Ruskey: Is that something that you fly often? Is it just a special occasion where you get to fly this?

Kristin W: Yeah, it’s my full-time job. So I’ve been flying the F35 for about six years now and then doing the actual air show gig for about four years. So we travel around the country, sometimes the world with this airplane, to kind of show it off in air shows and make people excited about it.

Katherine Ruskey: Very cool. So is this something that you’ve always wanted to do, like growing up you’re like- I have to be a pilot.

Kristin W: Not really, my dad was actually a fighter pilot in the Air Force as well. So I was born on the Air Force base. He was still in the Air Force when I actually joined. So you kind of say this is my blood but I really didn’t think about joining until college age actually.

Katherine Ruskey: So before that, what did you want to be?

Kristin W: I had a lot of things, you know, Doctor was up on the list, veterinarian. I actually studied engineering in college…

Katherine Ruskey: Everybody wants to be a veterinarian at one point. I feel So…

Kristin W: Yep.

Katherine Ruskey: How do you go to school to be a pilot in the Air Force? Like what is that like? What are the trainings like? How many years do you have to train?

Kristin W: Yeah, yeah, there’s a couple ways but you need to have a bachelors degree to get selected pilot training. I did ROTC, while I was in college, you can also go to the Air Force Academy or you can get your bachelors and then join later. But the cool part about the Air Force is a year pilot training in general. But you could have zero experience all the way up to, you know, be an airline pilot and join and go through the exact same training pipeline, pretty much.

Katherine Ruskey: Wow.

Kristin W: So that was me, I was on the three hours of experience, but they take you a whole year of pilot training and then fighter jet training. After that, it’s your specific airplane.

Katherine Ruskey: Very cool. Very cool. What’s the best part about being a pilot?

Kristin W: There’s a lot of cool parts. I like the camaraderie of this squadron. Getting to travel around is one of the most awesome things, especially in this job that I’m in. Now, with air shows getting to go to places. You never probably would have gone to or places uou’ve always dreamed about going, but maybe didn’t want to pay for that yourself on a vacation. So that’s probably some of the cool parts about it.

Katherine Ruskey: Yeah.

Kristin W: And then obviously, getting to fly a fighter airplane, is something that not a lot of people get to do.

Katherine Ruskey: So is being in the air shows, is that part of your job or is that an added bonus that you guys get to do?

Kristin W: Yeah, it’s kind of like a special duty assignment for me, as well as the maintainers and public affairs individuals on the team. So, in general, we’ll be on the team, you apply, you get selected interviewed, and you’re on the team for two to three years. We pick people straight out of basically the combat squadrons that we have. And then once we’re done with this assignment we go back into you know, just Regular Air Force lives.

Katherine Ruskey: So what does a resume look like when you’re applying for something like this? You have to have a video of you doing these really cool stunts or somebody fly with you? How does that work?

Kristin W: Not at all. So there’s not really any special requirements other than you know a couple years experience in that airplane for the team you’re applying to, in our case F-35. Our team is based of Hill Air Force Base-so Salt Lake City, Utah. So that’s where you have to be stationed to be able to apply, you know, already live here at that base and then really, you know, this reputation, good records, you know, training records, all that kind of stuff, then interviews with the leadership on down to be selected. So you obviously have to have a personality that enjoys your traveling, but also talk to people while being on the road because honestly, our main goal isn’t just to you know, show off the airplane at air shows, it’s actually to recruit for the Air Force as well.

Katherine Ruskey: Right. So other than these really cool air shows that you get to do, how else are these planes used?

Kristin W: Yeah. Honestly these are you know, combat ready airplanes. You could put bombs and missiles on them tomorrow instead of going to Ocean City, and they could go to war. So it’s a stealth airplane, which means it can, you know, get in close to either bad guy radars either, air ground or air, radars, drop the bombs, shoot missiles. Before anybody sees us, or target us and then turn around and protect, you know, the bigger things behind us that can go in later. So, that’s kind of the combat mission of this airplane and we try to show off a little bit of that in the air show around that we, you know, a little bit what we can without actually talking bombs and shooting missiles.

Katherine Ruskey: Right. Really cool. So I want to know about being a woman and a male dominated kind of job. Like I feel like we don’t see very many women being pilots now but I’m sure it’s on the rise. Can you tell us about that?

Kristin W: Yeah, we hope so. You know, obviously there’s not a lot of females either in the civilian or the military realm of aviation, something we’re trying to change. But because, you know, people still to this day don’t even know that you know, females can be pilots much less even fighter pilots even…

Katherine Ruskey: Right.

Kristin W: Though the Air Force we’ve had female fighter pilots for 30 years now. So it’s kind of crazy to think about…

Katherine Ruskey: Wow.

Kristin W: But in the fight, about three to four percent of pilots are female, that’s a little bit higher in the general aviation world. But honestly in the military we do a very good job of being a skill-based or merit-based community. So both the airplane doesn’t know the difference of who’s flying it, as well as the squadron, don’t really care because at the end of the day, if you’re going to war to some next to somebody, as long as they can do their job and keep you safe, then that’s all people really care about.

Katherine Ruskey: True. I know you guys are prepping to come to Ocean City. So where you guys coming from, and when you guys land in Ocean City, to go to the air show, where are you coming out of?, Where are you guys launching the planes from?

Kristin W: Yeah, so the maintenance team and the 14th flight have eight people. They left Salt Lake today on a commercial airplane. So they fly into, I can’t remember where they’re at, out there close to Ocean City and then myself and my other pilot will fly two airplanes out tomorrow morning. And so we’ll rejoin with the tanker. We’ll refuel airborne to get all the way down to the East Coast. And then we’re landing at Wallops Airfield, which is a little bit of a drive, but we have to have a 8,000 foot runway in general to land at. So, Ocean City in Salisbury a little bit, smaller and don’t meet the requirements sometimes. So that’s where we’re putting the jets for that weekend and then we’ll be launching out of there every day to fly down to the beach and back.

Katherine Ruskey: Everybody is so excited to see you guys this weekend. One more question. So if you’ve been to Ocean City before the Route 50 Bridge, there’s a very big sign that says 3,100 some miles from Ocean City to California from the East Coast to the West Coast. How fast can you get from East Coast to West Coast in your planes?

Kristin W: Oh, I’d say if we were going from coast to coast, it would probably take us four hours and 15 minutes maybe.

Katherine Ruskey: Wow.

Kristin W: We have to slow down a little bit to refuel the tanker and then speed it up again. But in general, we go about commercial airliner speeds a little bit faster, but we can just go direct and we go about the same altitudes as well. So I think tomorrow’s flight will probably be about three and a half hours from Salt Lake to Ocean City.

Katherine Ruskey: Wow. A lot of people drive from Baltimore to Ocean City and it takes a three hour drive, just not in an airplane. So,…

Kristin W: Yeah.

Katherine Ruskey: I think that’s all for us today, Kristin. Thank you very much for joining us.

Kristin W: Of course, I hope you guys get out in the enjoy the beach and the show this weekend.

Katherine Ruskey: We will make sure to wave to you. I doubt that you’ll be able to see us because you’ll be zooming right past us. I’m Katie with Ocean City.com. Make sure you check out the air show, June 10th and 11th this weekend on Ocean City’s beaches and boardwalk. I will see you at the beach.

Kristin W: Absolutely.

Living Local: A Floral Masterpiece

Maryland Coastal Bays

Greg Atkin

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June 8, 2023

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Masterpiece Flower Farm: Crystal Giesey

Photo of Masterpiece Farm in Whaleyville, MD. Photo: Sarah Murray

Masterpiece Flower Farm is a flourishing mother-daughter cut flower production farm on the outskirts of Whaleyville, Maryland. Crystal Giesey and her mother, Misty Fields, began growing flowers as a hobby, and seven years ago they decided to turn their passion into a business venture. In the beginning, they sold their flowers at just one farmers market, and have since grown to selling to four markets a week during season, one market year-round, and complete a multitude of wedding orders.

Their originally fallow four-acre field has required years of time-consuming cultivation, uncertain investment, and a lot of family dedication to transform it into the blooming landscape it is today. It is important to understand that in cut flower production everything is done by hand. Crystal explained, “We lay our landscape fabric by hand, we burn holes in the fabric by hand, we plant everything by hand, we weed by hand, we harvest by hand. It is all manual. There are no mechanized tools to plant, harvest, or anything.”

Farmer Crystal on her farm. Photo: Sarah Murray

This is even more impressive after learning about the number of plants Masterpiece produces. For those unfamiliar with plant terminology, a perennial plant is one that continues to grow year after year while remaining dormant throughout the winter (peonies). An annual flower is typically planted in the spring or summer months, blooms for the season, and then, unlike the perennial, dies (sunflowers). Woody plants are plants that have hard stems (ex: trees and shrubs), and are usually perennial plants. “Woody’s are more of a long-term investment, when you plant, you are not going to be cutting right away. It will probably take a good five years to get going, but they will be something that will really impact our business long term. We are at about thirty five percent perennials, and the rest is annuals. We grow lots of annuals in the summer – sunflowers, snap dragons, scabious – we have about a hundred different varieties that we grow.”

On the Eastern Shore, the blooming season is typically March through November, but Crystal explained that this has been changing throughout the years. She acknowledges that the planting seasons are changing because of changes in the climate. “I will say that the climate has changed. I can see that; I am out in it every day. We have warmer warms and colder colds.” She has taken steps to mitigate the impacts. “We have changed ways in how we farm to combat these climate challenges.

In the beginning, I was bringing rain barrels full of water in my van to water crops, and then it went from being super dry to super wet. We went from not having enough water to having too much. It was a super rainy season, so we dealt with a lot of rot in the beginning.” Crystal and her mother persevered through these challenges because they care deeply about bringing joy to their community by providing cut flowers in the most environmentally conscious ways possible. According to Crystal, everything on their farm is grown as sustainably as possible. “We use organic methods, we don’t spray – even with organic measures – unless we absolutely have to, such as if we are going to lose an entire crop. In 2019, we did not spray at all.”

As she continues to invest her time, money, and heart into Masterpiece Flower Farm, Crystal would like to encourage the community to buy flowers domestically, seasonally, and purchase with conscious consumerism. “Be aware of where your flowers are coming from and spend your money with farmers who, like me, have families and are local market garden farmers. When you buy locally, you are not supporting a giant corporation, you are supporting myself, my husband, my three-year-old, and my mother.” It is important for the community to remember that locally grown products extend far beyond fruits and vegetables. There are many farmers and small business owners throughout the Coastal Bays community that rely heavily on the support of people like you.

Masterpiece Flower Farm products can be found year round at their farm stand located on Hall Rd in Whaleyville, MD and at the Camden Avenue farmers market in Salisbury, MD. Beginning in May, they can be found at the Lewes, DE and Bethany, DE, farmers markets. For further inquiries, please contact Crystal via the Masterpiece website, www.masterpieceflowerfarm.com, or via their Facebook or Instagram.

Photo Friday Contest Winner June 8th 2023

Anne

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June 8, 2023

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Photo Friday Contest Winner June 8th 2023

Thank you for all the wonderful photos you shared with us this week for our first Photo Friday Contest of 2023. 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 is Nicole Massey for this fabulous picture of someone braving the temperature of the ocean because, hey, he’s in Ocean City and this is what we do! Congratulations Nicole! Keep taking pictures of Ocean City, and be on the look out for our next Photo Friday Contest starting tomorrow, Friday June 9th, and please remember to include a sentence telling us what’s going on in your picture!

Brian DeTemple – Taken from the Barefoot Mailman Motel.

Paul Gallo – My dear wife always enjoyed her stay in Ocean City.

Cathy Rice – Our special moment on the beach in OC

Amanda Persinger – My boardwalk husband…

Lindsay Fain – The bay from Ropewalk at sunset

Alandra Santos – We love cruisin’ tikis!

Katie Gearhart – Was there last weekend and was walking the beach an I got this pic of a suffer watching the waves..

Karla Besecker Goldbach – Beautiful Northside Park in Ocean, City, Maryland!

Sherry Dickerson -Cruisn Ocean City on the boards!

Leslie R. Pollard -Princess Royale ocean view

Jacquelin Miller Cullison – Beautiful sunset @ Fishtails in O.C.

Gloria Maynard – Sunset Park on Bayside yesterday

Christine Nicole – Enjoying a sunset with my mom last July.

Greg Bailey – Lulu enjoying the beach life.

Thank you for all your submissions. Please make sure you only submit your own photos, and not those of a professional photographer. Thank you!

Ocean City Air Show Announces Line-Up for this Weekend

Ann

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June 8, 2023

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Ocean City Air Show Announces Line-Up for this Weekend

The line-up for the Ocean City Air Show was announced recently. If you have purchased tickets to the Air Show, you should try to get there early because the traffic is predicted to be dense. The Boardwalk is predicted to be very busy as well so plan accordingly.

The beach is a great place to watch the event so you may want to make a day of it by packing a picnic and heading to the beach to watch all the planes.

Find the schedule below to help you identify those planes in the sky:

FRIDAY:

You will see many of the airplanes practicing throughout the day on Friday.

SATURDAY AND SUNDAY:

The Opening Ceremonies will begin at 11:30 AM. Tickets are still available here.

Invocation
National Anthem

The Drop Zone Beach will open to the public at 9 am on Saturday & Sunday. The Flight Line Club beat area will open at 10 a.m. on Saturday and Sunday.

PARKING:

If you have purchased VIP tickets to the Flight Line Club, the Skybox or the Penthouse, you will have received one parking pass per purchaser. These passes may be printed or a digital copy can be shown to the attendants on your telephone. There will be police or other attendants to help guide you to the limited parking for VIP purchasers ONLY.

If you have Drop Zone or Sand Box tickets, you can park in normal public parking, but it will be tough to find a spot on the island. You may want to try the West Ocean City Park and Ride to avoid getting caught in the traffic yourself. Buses will run every 20 minutes from 9 am to 5 pm to the center of activity between 13th and 15th streets downtown. You can also leave your car at the hotel and walk or ride the bus to the area where you want to watch the activities.

A walk over the Rt 50 Bridge – kids love it! Leave the car at the Park and Ride in West Ocean

OC AIR SHOW LINE-UP

The teams will perform in the following order on Saturday and Sunday’s schedule may be modified based on when the teams have to depart the area.

West Point Parachute Team Flag Jump
L-39 Cold War Era Jet Demo
Coast Guard SAR Demo
Navy F-18 Super Hornet Demo
Navy Legacy Flight
A-10 Warthogs CAS Demo by the MD ANG 175th Wing
Air Force F-35 Lightning II Demo
Air Force Heritage Flight
Red Bull Air Force
E-2D Hawkeye Demo
Air Force Thunderbirds
The Sunday sequence is subject to change based upon military aircraft departures.

Ocean City Air Show Travel Advisory

Anne

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June 7, 2023

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OCEAN CITY, MD (June 06, 2023): The Town of Ocean City will be hosting the O.C. Air Show this upcoming weekend. Residents and visitors can expect to see heavy traffic delays (both vehicle and pedestrians), restricted parking, and road closures in the downtown areas.

Street Closures

The displays, ground exhibits, and reserved parking will start to be set up on Friday, June 9, 2023, from 12^th Street to 20^th Street. All, or portions of these streets, will be closed and barricaded from Friday, June 9^th through Sunday, June 11^th. Except for 15^th Street to 17^th Street which will remain closed until approximately noon on Monday, June 12, 2023.

Starting at 5 p.m. on Friday, June 9, 2023, the City Hall parking lot located at 301 Baltimore Ave will be closed to the public. Only authorized personnel and vehicles will be permitted into the parking lot.

Parking

Parking is always a top commodity, particularly on Saturday. Many private lots will be offering parking at a demand-based rate if public parking is hard to find. The Town of Ocean City offers paid parking at the Inlet Lot and the following municipal lots:

Worcester St., between Baltimore Ave. & Philadelphia Ave.
Somerset St. & Baltimore Ave.
Dorchester St. & Baltimore Ave.
N. Division St. & Baltimore Ave.
N. Division St. & St. Louis Ave. (small lot)
4th St. & Baltimore Ave.
61st St. & Coastal Hwy., (Bayside)

On-street parking is expected to be limited due to the road closures near the event site. If you would like to learn more about parking in the Town of Ocean City, visit our website at https://oceancitymd.gov/oc/ocean-city-parking/.

Public Transportation

Ride with us, on Ocean City’s municipal buses that travel along Coastal Highway. A $4 Ride-All-Day pass allows you to ride from 6:00 a.m. until 3:00 a.m. the next morning.

Our friendly and knowledgeable drivers will be glad to take you down to our South Division Street Transit Center or the North End Transit Center or anywhere in between. Don’t forget, with your $4 pass, you can transfer to one of our Park & Ride buses at no additional cost and go to our beautiful West Ocean City Park & Ride facility. The West Ocean City Park & Ride located at 12848 Ocean Gateway also offers free parking.

On Saturday, June 10^th, and Sunday, June 11^th, the Express Beach Bus Shuttle for Special Events will be operating. The Express shuttle will transport you to and from the following two locations.

West Ocean City Park N Ride to/from 17^th Street and Baltimore Ave. The Express Shuttle will run approximately every 20 mins from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
40^th Street- South Convention Center parking to/from 18^th Street and Baltimore Ave. The Express Shuttle will run approximately every 20 mins from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Following the conclusion of the air show, bus riders should anticipate heavy vehicular congestion which may delay bus services. If you would like to learn more about our public transportation options or to follow along on the interactive bus stop map, visit our website at https://oceancitymd.gov/oc/departments/public-works/transportation/

Delays and Congestion are Expected

The Town of Ocean City recommends arriving before 9 a.m. to get ahead of the traffic. You can make a day of it and enjoy everything the boardwalk has to offer and along with exploring the Air Show exhibits. Exhibits will be set up in the Inlet Parking Lot and from 12^th Street to 20^th Street along the Boardwalk.

We anticipate seeing a heavy volume of pedestrians in and around the event area. Remember to Walk Smart and remember these tips:

Always cross at and within marked crosswalks.
Look, pay attention, then cross
Follow all traffic signal signs and lane markings.
Use the sidewalk-do not cross in the street.
Make eye contact with drivers.

Drivers, please remain alert and patient. We will see heavy traffic congestion, particularly on Baltimore Ave. Remember to Drive Smart and remember these tips:

Stop for all pedestrians in crosswalks-this is Maryland law.
Slow down-watch for pedestrians and yield to pedestrians, especially when turning.
Keep your eyes on the road. It’s illegal to text and use handheld devices while driving.
Stay alert and avoid all distractions.
Share the road with bicycles
Do not drive in the bike and bus lanes.

Together we can work together to ensure the Air Show event is an enjoyable experience for everyone. Arrive early and plan to stay late to make the most out of the weekend. To learn about the OC Air Show event, visit: https://ocairshow.com/

Ocean City Film Festival Seeks Original Short Films For 6th Annual Film Challenge

Anne

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June 6, 2023

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Ocean City Film Festival Seeks Original Short Films For 6th Annual Film Challenge

OCEAN CITY, MD — June 6, 2023 — The Ocean City Film Festival presents the 6^th Annual Ocean City Film Challenge to filmmakers and aspiring filmmakers across Delmarva and beyond. Registration is free and now open at www.OCMDFilmFestival.com.

The challenge is for filmmakers to produce an original short film about Ocean City that is no longer than 15 minutes and made between July 1 and July 31, 2023. Any artist who wishes tell a story about the resort, preferably suitable for viewing by all ages, may enter. Films must be shot in Ocean City or be about Ocean City and follow a cinematic narrative. Films also must include a specific line of dialogue and prop, which will be emailed to registrants on July 1, 2023. The deadline to register for the challenge is July 22, 2023.

“A film can be produced in Ocean City, in a way that is visible within the film,” B.L. Strang-Moya, creative director of the OC Film Festival, said. “Or the film can be shot outside of Ocean City, but Ocean City has to be central to the premise of the film. The film must tell an actual story in the form of a fiction narrative. We cannot accept any vacation footage, music videos, or any such media that would not be considered traditional cinema.”

Final cuts are due on Aug. 13, 2023, and submitted online along with other deliverables. The winning films will premiere on Saturday, Aug. 19, 2023, 7 p.m. at the Ocean City Center for the Arts and will also be screened at the Ocean City Film Festival in March 2024.

Prizes include an Ocean City hotel stay, swag bag, and two all-access passes during the 2024 OC Film Festival.

“Ocean City is a beautiful landscape, and there’s so much that artists can take advantage of right here in town,” said Strang-Moya. “There are many ways to tell a story through motion picture, and the challenge pushes filmmakers to explore these boundaries.”

Contact the Film Festival at OceanCityFilmFest@gmail.com with questions.

The Ocean City Film Festival is a program of the Art League of Ocean City.

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. Financial support comes primarily through membership dues from individuals and corporate sponsors.

Ocean City, MD: Exploring the Cultural Tapestry of Art, Music, and Theater

Ann

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June 6, 2023

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Ocean City, MD: Exploring the Cultural Tapestry of Art, Music, and Theater

Once described as the “all you can eat” beach destination on the Shore, Ocean City, Maryland has always been known for its sandy beaches and vibrant boardwalk, but it offers much more than sun and surf. This coastal gem has developed a thriving cultural scene, with a variety of artistic activities and venues to delight residents and visitors alike. There are three big players that are the foci of a cultural tour of the Ocean City area: the Ocean City Art League, the Freeman Arts Pavilion, and the Ocean City Performing Arts Center.

The Ocean City Art League‘s Art & Activities

Nestled in the heart of Ocean City, the OC Art League serves as a hub for artistic expression and creativity. Established in 1963, this nonprofit organization has been nurturing local talent and fostering a love for the arts in the community for decades. The league features a gallery that showcases an impressive array of artworks, including paintings, sculptures, ceramics, and photography. It hosts regular exhibitions that provide a platform for emerging and established artists to display their masterpieces, inviting viewers to immerse themselves in the world of visual art. In addition to exhibitions, the OC Art League also offers a diverse range of workshops, classes, and educational programs, catering to both children and adults. They sponsor the Ocean City Film Festival and offer other performances throughout the year in a variety of locations. Whether you’re a seasoned artist or simply an art enthusiast, a visit to the OC Art League promises an enriching and inspiring experience.

Freemanarts.org — Check out the performance schedule with big name performers at the Freeman Stage just 15 miles from Ocean City.

The Freeman Arts Pavilion – Champion of the Arts on Delmarva

Only 15 miles from Ocean City, in nearby Selbyville, Delaware, lies the Freeman Arts Pavilion, a world-class venue for performing arts and a program of the Joshua M. Freeman Foundation. This outdoor amphitheater, nestled amidst the picturesque coastal landscape, showcases a variety of artistic disciplines, including music, theater, dance, and more. From intimate concerts by renowned musicians to captivating dance performances and theatrical productions, the Freeman Arts Pavilion brings a diverse range of cultural experiences to the region. The venue’s state-of-the-art facilities, coupled with its idyllic setting, create a unique and immersive atmosphere for attendees.

Local Craft Beer & the Arts

Because the Ocean City and the Eastern Shore are a thriving craft beer destination, you can combine your favorite craft beers with the arts throughout the Ocean City area. Burley Oak Brewing serves many of their local craft favorites to attendees of the performances at the Freeman Stage. Their brewery is located in Berlin, MD another great destination for live music and great food. Other breweries dot Ocean City and Delaware, from the newest brewery, The Other One Brewing, located in the Embers Center in Ocean City to the wildly popular and much larger Dogfish Head brewing in Rehoboth Beach and Milton and more than 20 breweries worth a look – or a taste! Download the Shore Craft Beer App to find a local craft brewery near you!

Scan to download the Shore Craft Beer App to find beer near you or to win prizes just for checking in.

Arts Access Programs for Local Schools

The Freeman Arts Pavilion also sponsors the arts access programs for local schools and the community at large ensuring that this cultural identity that has developed in the Ocean City area will continue for decades to come. Whether you choose to relax on the lawn, secure a seat in the covered seating area, or sponsor the arts in our community, you’re sure to be captivated by the incredible talent that graces the stage and the staff at the Freeman Arts Pavilion.

mayor meehan open house — The Ocean City Performing Arts includes 1,216 seats, including an orchestra section that can be removed to extend the stage.

Ocean City Performing Arts Center

For those seeking a smaller, indoor and perhaps more traditional performing arts experience, the Ocean City Performing Arts Center is the place to be. Located within the Roland E. Powell Convention Center, this modern and spacious venue hosts a wide range of performances, including Broadway shows, concerts, comedy acts, and dance recitals. With its comfortable seating and superb acoustics, the Ocean City Performing Arts Center provides an ideal setting for enjoying world-class entertainment. The center’s diverse programming ensures there’s something for everyone, attracting both local talent and internationally acclaimed performers. Whether you’re a fan of musical theater, a lover of classical music, or simply looking to be entertained for the holidays, the Ocean City Performing Arts Center promises a memorable and enchanting experience.

Special Events Programming in Ocean City

In addition to these notable cultural destinations, Ocean City also hosts a variety of festivals and events throughout the year that celebrate art, music, culture, and fun. From the Springfest and Sunfest, which bring together live music, local artisans, and delicious cuisine, to the ArtX and Art’s Alive showcases, which highlight the talents of regional artists, there’s always something happening to engage and inspire visitors. For more information on the events happening in and around Ocean City, check out OceanCity.com’s event listings.

Ocean City, Maryland, is a coastal paradise that offers more than just sun and sand. Its vibrant cultural scene, represented by the OC Art League, Freeman Arts Pavilion, and Ocean City Performing Arts Center, showcases the immense talent and creativity present in the community. Whether you’re a resident or a visitor, immersing yourself in the rich cultural activities of Ocean City is a must-do experience. So, next time you find yourself in this charming coastal town, take a break from the beach and explore the artistic treasures that await you.

Pocomoke High School Principal Set to Fly with USAF Thunderbirds- Jenifer Rayne Chosen as ‘Hometown Hero’

News

Katie Ruskey

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June 6, 2023

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Pocomoke High School Principal Set to Fly with USAF Thunderbirds- Jenifer Rayne Chosen as ‘Hometown Hero’

OCEAN CITY, Md. (June 6, 2023) – An award-winning principal from Pocomoke High School has been selected to fly with the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds as part of their “Hometown Hero” program that honors deserving local people, OC Air Show officials announced on Tuesday.

Jenifer Rayne (@jenifer_rayne) / Twitter

On Friday, June 9, at 11 a.m. (from the NASA Wallops Flight Facility, Wallops Island, Virginia) Jenifer Rayne will get to experience the ride of her life in the backseat of an F-16 with Thunderbird#7 Lt. Col.Ryan Yingling as her pilot.

On her 45-minute flight, Rayne will experience the thrill of hitting up to seven G’s, along with the accompanying twists, spins and turns of the best roller coaster ride imaginable.

“I am incredibly excited and honored to be given this opportunity,” said Rayne.

The Maryland State Education Association (MSEA) recently presented Rayne with the MSEA Human and Civil Rights Award at MSEA’s Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration and Racial Social Justice Summit in Baltimore. The award is in recognition of Rayne’s support of Speak Up, a student club at Pocomoke High School. The MSEA Human and Civil Rights Award is given to educators who contribute significantly to the area of human and civil rights in the classroom or the overall school culture.

The Speak Up group was launched during her first year as principal at Pocomoke High School. She was looking for ways to make sure students’ voices were being heard when a senior expressed interest in leading a group to celebrate diversity. They decided the new group would focus on elevating student voices and would be open to anyone interested in making the school a better place for everyone.

In recent years, the club has grown from just five students to 25 students. It explores the history and culture of all marginalized populations, has done murals, helped with Black History Month activities, and even developed professional development opportunities for educators.

The Thunderbirds will headline the 16^th annual OC Air Show which will also feature the F-35 Lightning II Demo Team, F-18 Rhino Demo Team, A-10 Thunderbolt II, and the Red Bull Air Force, among others.

The OC Air Show is the fourth stop on the 2023 Air Dot Show Tour (https://air.show/), which will include future shows in New York; Atlanta; and Orlando.

The Storm of 1933- A First Hand Account of Ocean City, Maryland’s Historical Hurricane

Ocean City History

Katie Ruskey

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June 5, 2023

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The Storm of 1933- A First Hand Account of Ocean City, Maryland’s Historical Hurricane

It was 90 years ago that a major hurricane wrecked havoc on the vacation paradise that we all know and love. The storm of 1933, which was before hurricanes had names, is recounted by Irma Jones Jester.

“The Storm of 1933”

1933 ocmd — Flooding in the street caused major damage to the Ocean City area. Photo courtesy of the Ocean City Life Saving Station Museum.

by Irma Jones Jester- 1983
“On the evening of August 22, 1933 the wind was blowing a gale. The ocean was coming up very high, even breaking on the boardwalk and running down Worcester Street. My husband and I operated a lunchroom at the corner of Worcester Street and the boardwalk.
Our bedroom was directly over the lunchroom with an outside stairway leading to it. We went to bed but there was little sleep that night. The building was shaking and creaking and we would not have been surprised to have the roof taken off, or our place badly damaged. At five o’clock in the morning we were looking out the window and saw a big wave come up and lift the boardwalk up from its foundation. When the wave retreated it took the lamppost that was at the head of the street with it. My husband said, “I think it’s time we left this place.” I had an antique rocker in the bedroom. My husband grabbed that and started for the steps. The wind was blowing so hard; it tore the chair from his grasp so that idea had to be abandoned. In one corner of the room lay a new pair of shoes I had just purchased. I decided to save them. We expected everything to be washed away. In the meantime the bay had come up to meet the ocean on the side streets and water was knee deep on Baltimore Avenue.

Flooding in the Streets

We owned a home on North Division Street and we headed for it wading very carefully. Lots of debris was in the water and the street was undermined in several places. Boats were being rowed on Baltimore Avenue and the side streets.
I stepped in a crack and tore one heel off my shoe. After the wind changed my husband and I went back to our business and our bedroom. There, comfortably and safe, were my old shoes, high and dry. The new one’s ruined.

Abandoning Businesses

1933 ocean city md — Did you know that two train cars actually sunk in the inlet and are still there today? Photo courtesy of the Ocean City Life Saving Station Museum.

My mother operated a small restaurant on the ocean side of the boardwalk at South Second Street. The waves were breaking so hard they came into the windows and water was several inches deep on the floor. My mother and father had stayed there through the night, but had to abandon it in the morning and go over into the Windsor Resort buildings. Several other concession people were there also. During the storm of rain and wind, I stood over by my mother’s business. This was in the exact place where the museum is now at the located. I watched the cutting of the
inlet.

Fish Camps and Shanties

The bay was responsible for the cutting of the inlet as was the ocean. The bay was full of water and very choppy. I could see it making inroads toward the ocean. Down along the bay were small houseboats called shanties. People lived in these but had to be evacuated.
Luckily no lives were lost. There were also large houses in groups call “Fish Camps”. The upper floors were used as a dormitory for fishermen to live in who did not have a home in Ocean City.
I watched the rushing waters of the ocean draw closer and closer to the fish camps and I watched as a large building fell into the water. Several of the shanties were torn from their moorings and demolished. Several sections of the boardwalk were torn up and washed away by the swirling tide. At one time there was a little dog on a small island in the inlet. Several people were concerned. I never knew whether he was rescued or not.

The Cutting of the Inlet

1933 ocean city — An aerial shot of the new inlet shows the incredible break through, which is now considered a blessing to the OCMD area. Photo courtesy of the Ocean City Life Saving Station Museum.

In the afternoon the wind changed, the sun came out and the ocean had retreated, but it had left us an inlet! At the time it seemed a tragedy had happened, but it proved to be a “God Send” to Ocean City.

A great clean up started and people began getting back to normal, not yet realizing just what the inlet meant to them until a little later when it led to a great improvement in the economy, tourist trade and the building boom of today.

The train bridge was washed out in the storm and the train no longer comes into Ocean City but there are modern buses, cars, trucks, and planes to provide transportation of people and products.
Ocean City has weathered other storms. Many people have been evacuated but natives never leave. They are strong in body and spirit and nerves.”

Photograph of Irma Jester taken by Sandra Hurley

Free “Dance on the Shore Festival” is June 9-11 at Ocean City Center for the Arts

Art League

Katie Ruskey

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June 5, 2023

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OCEAN CITY, MD — June 3, 2023 — Saltare in Elementis (SIE) Dance Collective will present a free “Dance on the Shore Festival” June 9-11 at the Ocean City Center for the Arts, 94^th St. bayside. The festival will include arts and movement workshops for children, an original dance film showcase, adult workshops from world-class dance instructors, and a new live performance.

Saltare in Elementis Dance Collective was founded during an undergraduate study abroad trip in 2018 by Zoe Couloumbis, Fiona O’Brien, and Sebrena Williamson. Aside from connecting with each other through dance, each founder possesses their own separate passions that contribute to the company’s success. O’Brien, Director of Music and an Eastern Shore native, is well-versed in music business and leads the company in music collaboration. Couloumbis, Director of Education, is an accredited and licensed teacher. Williamson, Director of Research, is an established researcher and writer, and leads the company in research-based choreographic theory and written collaboration.

Friday, June 9, 5-7 p.m., is dance movie night at the Arts Center, screening three original movies featuring SIE dancers. Terra and Hurricane 6, movies about dance in the environment that were original presented at the Ocean City Film Festival, will be shown as well as the world premiere Intertidal, an original piece by the dance collective with original music by Will Rothermel. The movies will be accompanied by a cocktail hour with hors d’oeuvres, live musicians, and vendors.

Saturday, June 10, is the “Day of Dance” at the Arts Center with a day-long menu of activities. From 10 a.m.-noon, SIE leads attendees through a beach-themed, environmentally-friendly Crafts & Composition class where students will find shapes within their craft and translate them into movement.

From 1-2:30 p.m., SIE will lead a Flow Cardio class, a follow-along Zumba-like cardio dance workshop that’s water inspired. No dance experience required, and all ages are welcome.

From 2:30-3:30 p.m., SIE will lead attendees in the worldwide Global Water Dances event including discussions about water issues and personal actions people can take to support clean water. The workshop will end by attendees learning the four movements of the Global Water Dance and performing in solidarity with Global Water Dance sites around the world fighting for clean water. Attendees may be filmed to capture the Ocean City site of this global event.

On Sunday, June 11, 10-11 a.m., the co-founders of SIE will hold a Coffee & Conversation with the Choreographers.

All classes and events are walk-in only, and registration is not required. More information is available at OCart.org.

The Art League of Ocean City is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting artistic expression and appreciation for the creative arts in our community through 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.

Art League of Ocean City Awards College Scholarships to 8 Worcester Co. Students

Art League

Katie Ruskey

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June 5, 2023

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Art League of Ocean City Awards College Scholarships to 8 Worcester Co. Students

OCEAN CITY, MD — June 5, 2023 — The Art League of Ocean City is celebrating 32 years of providing college scholarships, awarding 83 scholarships since 1991 to local students pursuing a college degree in the visual and performing arts. In 2023, eight Worcester Co. students received college scholarships from the Art League.

This year’s scholarships include the third annual $5,000 Sidney M. Beckstead Award, in honor of the entrepreneur, artist, and jeweler who passed away in 2020. The recipient is Bella Resto of Snow Hill, a graduate of Stephen Decatur High School, who plans on pursuing a career in fine arts and writing.

Hannah Dang of Berlin, a graduate of SDHS, received the first $1,000 scholarship from Tuve, Nita, and Tia Tuvesson in honor of their late wife and mother, Inga Tuvesson, who was also a past Art League board president. Dang plans on studying graphic design and sports management at Neumann University.

Nita & Tuve & Tia Tuvesson & Hannah Dang

The third annual Eva Fox Award, in memory of the mother of the Art League’s executive director, Rina Fox Thaler, went to Cayden Wallace of Ocean Pines, who graduated from Worcester Preparatory School and is planning a dual major in musical theater and digital art/animation.

Rina Thaler & Cayden Wallace & Jeff Thaler

The Schwab family awarded a $1,000 scholarship to Jessica Beck of Ocean City, a graduate of SDHS, who will study architectural engineering.

Savannah Chisholm of Pocomoke City, a graduate of Snow Hill High School, received a $1,000 scholarship from Wayne and Virginia Outten in honor of Virginia’s mother, Vera Cross. Chisholm will study graphic illustration.

The Art League also awarded three $1,000 scholarships, funded through the Katherine Ellen Brown Fund at the Community Foundation of the Eastern Shore and through the Art League scholarship fund. This year, all three awards went to students for continuing their education in the arts.

The 2023 recipients are Kayla Halbig of Ocean City, currently a student at Towson University studying graphic design; Alexis Kagan of Pocomoke City, attending Salisbury University in Art Education; and MacKenzie Williams of Berlin, a student at the School of Visual Arts, New York, studying cartooning and illustration.

Erica Jospeh CFES & Kayla Halbig & Alexis Kagan & Rina Thaler

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. Financial support comes primarily through membership dues from individuals and corporate sponsors.

OCMD Outdoor Summer Movie Schedule

Katie Ruskey

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May 30, 2023

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Looking for something to do with the kids this summer? Or maybe you’re a kid at heart that just loves a good wholesome movie. Ocean City Rec and Parks will be hosting Movies on the Beach from June 7th through August 16th. Large inflatable movie screens will be set up for families to bring their blankets, chairs, and snacks beginning around approximately 8:30pm. There are two locations- The Carousel Hotel (118th street) and 27th street. All movies are weather permitting and tiles may be subject to change. For more information, contact Ocean City Recreation and Parks at 410-250-0125 or visit www.oceancitymd.gov.

W- June 7th, Jungle Cruise- Carousel Hotel 118th Street

W- June 14th, Strange World- Carousel Hotel 118th Street

M- June 19th, Lightyear- 27th Street

W- June 21st, Space Jam: New Legacy, Carousel Hotel 118th Street

M- June 26th, Luca- 27th Street

W- June 28th, Frozen, Carousel Hotel 118th Street

M- July 3rd, Minions: The Rise of Gru, 27th Street

W- July 5th, DC League of Superpets, Carousel Hotel 118th Street

M- July 10th, Hotel Transylvania: Transformania- 27th Street

W- July 12th, Puss in Boots: The Last Wish, Carousel Hotel 118th Street

M- July 17th, Encanto, 27th Street

W- July 19th, Lightyear, Carousel Hotel 118th Street

M- July 24th, Vivo- 27th Street

W- July 26th, Turning Red, Carousel Hotel 118th Street

M- July 31st, Rock Dog 3: Battle of the Beat, 27th Street

W- August 2nd, Lyle, Lyle, Crocodile- Carousel Hotel 118th Street

M- August 7th, Strange World- 27th Street

W- August 9th, Minions: The Rise of Gru- Carousel Hotel 118th StreetW- August 16th, Sonic the Hedgehog 2, Carousel Hotel 118th Street

Trimper Rides Launches New App

Anne

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May 30, 2023

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Guests are rewarded for their purchases and participation at Trimper Rides and affiliated businesses

Ocean City, M.D. (May 30, 2023) – Trimper Rides newest feature to enhance and reward guests is the Trimper Rides App. The app is now available for download on the Trimper Rides website, in the App Store or in Google Play. Users can get credit by way of loyalty points for dollars spent at the park and its affiliated businesses and by sending in comments and pictures chronicling their experience with all facets of Trimper Rides.

The app rewards guests by granting them points and honors their loyalty with new monikers as they acquire more points. The possible tiers are: Guest, Fan, Loyalist, Trooper, and the ultimate level – Trailblazer. Each level offers redemptions and further access to rides, games, food, and prizes.

The app encourages users to directly engage with all aspects of Trimper Rides by submitting comments and photos. Guests will be happily surprised with bonus points for awesome shares. Guests are encouraged to check-in with the app at rides, Trimper Sweets, Trimper Treats, Marty’s Arcade, and even those that “stay where they play” and lodge with Trimper’s can leave feedback or submit their receipt for points.

“Stories about first experiences, best times, and photos in the throws of it all are the cornerstone of why Trimper Rides has been here for 130 years. There is true value in the moments and sharing the fun escapades. Our guests have always delighted in painting a picture for us about the times they came here with a grandparent, or the first kiss they had here with their now fiance, or their great luck winning a giant plush. The app was a natural progression for giving them an outlet to tell us their tales and we love rewarding them for bringing us along on their adventures.” Jessica Bauer, Director of Marketing

All these comments and pictures may also end up in Trimper Rides marketing as another way to spotlight guests and their experiences. Further features in the app give users access to in-app only deals, first to know event information, and facility updates like open status due to inclement weather. Future versions of the app will include Challenges, Games, and Coloring Pages.

Soaring to New Heights: OC Air Show 2023 Showcases Awe-Inspiring Aircraft and Thrilling Acrobatics!

Logan Dubel

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May 26, 2023

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Soaring to New Heights: OC Air Show 2023 Showcases Awe-Inspiring Aircraft and Thrilling Acrobatics!

By Logan Dubel

U.S. Thunderbirds will perform at the OC Air Show — Air Force Thunderbirds – photo courtesy of the U.S. Air Force

Are you ready to rumble in Ocean City? The OC Air Show is quickly approaching, bringing can’t-miss performances to the skies above the resort. Now celebrating its 16th year in OC, organizers at Air Dot Show Live as well as visitors look forward to the return of spectacular aircraft to the Eastern Shore.

The roughly four-hour show, which takes place between 13th and 17th Streets along the Boardwalk, will kick off on both Saturday, June 10, and Sunday, June 11, at approximately 11:30 a.m. with opening ceremonies. The presentation begins with an invocation, the National Anthem, and the jumping in of the American flag by the SOCOM Para-Commandos.

Next, flight performances begin at noon and continue until 2:30 p.m., before the major headliner, the United States Air Force Thunderbirds, begin their ascension and continue until 3:30 p.m.

OC Air Show Performance Line-Up

Air Show organizers have released a sequence of flight, though it is subject to change based on weather conditions and military aircraft departures on Sunday. Read all about each aircraft here.

Air Force Thunderbirds
F-35 Lightning II Demo Team
F-18 Rhino Demo Team
A-10 Thunderbolt IIS
Red Bull Air Force
Air Force Heritage Flight
L-39 Cold War Era Jet Demo
Navy Legacy Flight
West Point Parachute Team
C-17 Globemaster III
UH-72A Lakota Helicopter
E-2C Hawkeye Demo Team

From start to finish, the show features compelling commentary. Plus, music synchronized with the jets’ maneuvers blasts through speakers and carries across the beach and Boardwalk, forcing visitors to stop in their tracks and take a look at the wild sights in the sky.

Advance Ticket Purchase Discounts Still Available

Are you convinced yet? Discounted tickets for advance sales end Tuesday. They are currently available across the show’s five areas remain available for purchase, except for the VIP Penthouse on Saturday.

First, the Air Show offers “Sand Boxes,” where visitors can reserve their own area on the beach and either bring along their own umbrella and chairs or purchase a premium box with those amenities provided. Tickets begin as low as $49.75 per person, with the admission of four people to each box.

Next, the Drop Zone Beach area provides attendees with more space away from the massive crowds, restrooms, private ocean access, beach chairs and umbrellas for rent, and food and beverages for purchase. Advance tickets start at $32.50 for adults and $22.75 for children 3-12. Entrance is between 14th and 15th Streets in Ocean City and the gates open at 9 AM.

Patrons seeking a more upscale experience can join the Flight Line Club VIP, which offers seating under a large tent and a catered lunch along with beverages. Advance tickets now start at $237.25 per person, and gates open as early as 10 AM.

Even better is the VIP Skybox, providing second-floor balcony reserved seating at 1601 Atlantic Avenue, Suite 201, a catered lunch, and an indoor suite begin at $269 per visitor (with advance purchase discount.) Finally, the VIP Penthouse option, only available now for Sunday, offers a view of the spectacles from 10 floors up. These tickets are SOLD-OUT!

For ticketing support, call 410-450-4197.

Viewing the OC Air Show From a Boat

There is a limited area on the eastern side of the safety zone as designated by the United States Coast Guard. The depth in this area is 30-35 feet. No anchoring, hovering, or idling of boats or watercraft are permitted to the north or south of this area. This safety zone will be patrolled. More information here.

More Airshows along the East Coast

Believe it or not, Ocean City, Maryland, is not the only destination for the Air Dot Show Live tour. So far in 2023, the promoter has presented performances in Cocoa Beach, Fort Lauderdale, and Augusta, GA, with additional performances slated for New York, Orlando, and Atlanta later this year.

Want an inside look at what goes into the OC Air Show? Visit the Air Dot Show YouTube channel for exclusive video content. For those unable to attend the performance in person, an impressive livestream is available, including a look inside the cockpit, cameras showing the aerobatic maneuvers from all angles, and a chance to listen to both the show narration and conversations between the air boss and pilots. In 2021, over 8,000 people tuned in to the livestream for the Saturday performances.

Simply put, this is an event you will not want to miss, and no matter where you are in Ocean City, you will hear the roar of the Air Show.

Taking a Picnic to the Beach in Ocean City, MD: A Guide to the Best Food and Drink

Anne

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May 24, 2023

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Taking a Picnic to the Beach in Ocean City, MD: A Guide to the Best Food and Drink

Ocean City, MD is known for its beautiful beaches and wide range of family friendly activities, including picnics on the beach. Whether you’re with family or friends, taking a picnic to the beach is a great way to spend the day soaking up the sun and enjoying some delicious food. As the weather begins to warm up, we took a look at some of our favorite restaurants in town that can contribute to making a great picnic to take to the beach.

When it comes to preparing for a beach picnic, there are a few things you’ll want to keep in mind. First and foremost, make sure to pack plenty of sunscreen and water to stay hydrated. You’ll also want to bring a cooler or insulated bag to keep your food and drinks cold.

Now, let’s talk about where to get some great food and drinks for your beach picnic in Ocean City, MD. Downtown, one of the best places to start is Anthony’s Liquors on 33rd Street. They have a wide variety of subs and sandwiches, as well as a full deli with salads which are made in-house and deli meats from Boar’s Head and Citterio.

Uptown, for subs, sandwiches and other tasty eats, head to Billy’s Sub Shop on 140th Street. They offer a wide range of subs and sandwiches, including classics like their Italian Cold Cut and Sirloin Cheesesteak, as well as vegetarian options like the Veggie Sub. You can also add some sides like chips, onion rings or French fries to complete your meal, and don’t forget they also have pizza which is remarkably easy to eat on the beach!

No beach day is complete without ice cream, and Scoops Ice Cream at the Grand Hotel on 21st Street is the perfect place to satisfy your sweet tooth. They offer a wide variety of flavors, including classics like chocolate and vanilla, as well as frozen bananas, fruit smoothies, ice cream floats, super sundaes, and milkshakes.

Scoops Ice Cream at the Grand Hotel Ocean City

For seafood lovers, Shrimp Boat in West Ocean City is a great option. They offer a wide range of fresh seafood, including crab cakes, shrimp, and oysters, lots of sandwiches which are perfect for a picnic, and you can call ahead and pick up your order on your way to the beach. You can also order sides like fried green been, corn on the cob, and clam strips to complete your beach picnic meal.

Soft shell crab sandwich from the Shrimp Boat

For a quick and easy breakfast or lunch option to take to the beach, Jays Cafe & Trading Co on 23rd St is a great choice. This cafe serves up delicious breakfast sandwiches, omelets, and bagels, as well as lunch options like salads, sandwiches, and wraps. And with its location just a few blocks from the beach, Jays is the perfect place to grab a picnic breakfast or lunch when heading to the sand.

Even on the beach, there is still a time when you’re in need of a caffeine fix, and Java Beach Cafe at the Grand Hotel is the place to go. This cozy coffee shop serves up delicious coffee drinks made with locally-roasted beans, as well as tea, smoothies, and pastries. And with its convenient location on 21st Street on the Boardwalk, Java Beach is the perfect spot to grab a drink to enjoy with your beach picnic.

28th Street Pit n Pub is a popular place for beach goers to head before hitting the sands. They will serve you up meats from their smoker piled high on a Brioche Roll, or try their Carolina pulled pork, beef brisket and pulled BBQ chicken for a flavorful picnic lunch.

Pizza is always a good idea, and it’s an easy option to pick one up on your way to the beach. The Dough Roller has locations throughout Ocean City, so no matter where your spot on the beach is, there is sure to be one nearby to satisfy your hunger!

With these delicious food and drink options in Ocean City, you’ll have everything you need for a perfect beach picnic. So pack your cooler, grab your beach blanket, and head to the shore for a day of fun, relaxation, and great food! And remember, no picnic on the beach is complete without the odd little crunch of sand as part of your lunch!

Local Leaders Share Offshore Wind Perspectives Amidst Regional Concerns

News

Logan Dubel

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May 23, 2023

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Local Leaders Share Offshore Wind Perspectives Amidst Regional Concerns

By Logan Dubel

When visitors arrive in Ocean City, they expect waves, whales and wind. However, a different kind of wind — offshore wind development — continues casting more than the occasional ocean breeze across the Eastern Seaboard as state and local officials question potential impacts.

Concerns over the effects of wind surveys and development on aquatic ecosystems reached a fever pitch in recent weeks, particularly in New Jersey. This follows more than 30 reported whale deaths since December, including one on nearby Assateague Island in January.

Combatting Mammal “Misinformation”

Despite the unusual deaths, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) insists any link between whale fatalities and wind development would be false.

“At this point, there is no evidence to support speculation that noise resulting from wind development-related site characterization surveys could potentially cause mortality of whales, and no specific links between recent large whale mortalities and currently ongoing surveys,” NOAA posted on its website.

David Wilson, the Maryland development manager for US Wind, said his team always conducts surveys with caution and characterized claims of ties to whale deaths as “misinformation.”

“We did surveying (off the coast of Ocean City) until May 2022, but our surveys are innocuous. The sonar (technology) that we use isn’t harmful to whales and dolphins,” said Wilson, who also previously oversaw the Maryland Coastal Bays Program. “The science on this is really good. I know some legislators have said this needs to be studied more, but this has been studied to death.”

Buoy used by US Wind to research nearby animals and their habits. Courtesy of US Wind.

Still, rising whale deaths concern environmental groups, including the Marine Mammal Commission. The organization issued an update in response to the whale mortalities, which have steadily increased since 2016. While emphasizing no links to wind development, the organization reported in February that 40% of humpback whales discovered this winter showed signs of entanglement or large vessel strikes.

Ocean City Mayor Rick Meehan, who previously voiced concerns after the Assateague whale discovery, expressed confidence in experts when asked about his latest perspective.

“The Town of Ocean City is not opposed to offshore wind development. We only ask that it be done responsibly,” Meehan said in an email to OceanCity.com. “If there are environmental concerns, they should be addressed, not just bypassed or ignored. If these concerns are unfounded, then at the very least, the proper environmental agencies have been consulted, and the proper studies have been conducted.”

How the Wind Blows Next

Although all aim to protect marine life, another disconnect plagues the future of the turbines.

Meehan and Ocean City previously urged developers to consider safeguarding the resort’s oceanfront views for as many miles as possible while still meeting clean energy goals. But recent plans, which could see the turbines operating by 2025, indicate their construction as close as 11 miles to shore — a plan to which Meehan objects.

“We support clean energy initiatives but not at the cost of destroying the view shed off the coast of Ocean City,” Meehan said. “Everything the state wants to accomplish — production of clean energy, economic benefit, and potential jobs that will be created — will still be accomplished if the turbines are located further off of our coast.”

Instead, Meehan suggests limiting the over 900-foot wind towers to at least 20 miles offshore, citing successes in Virginia and North Carolina.

But Wilson said both contractually and environmentally, moving further out to sea proves a poor option.

“We must fill the lease area to as close as 11 miles to meet the contractual obligations in the energy credits we purchase. It’s not financially possible to only put turbines in the eastern section of the lease area,” Wilson said. “Moving east would put us into shipping lanes and is also where the majority of whales migrate.”

Once completed, Wilson said the roughly 76 total turbines could deliver power to 20% of Maryland’s homes — a feat that Governor Wes Moore sees as a success.

“Maryland will quadruple the amount of energy produced by offshore wind from about 2 gigawatts to 8.5 gigawatts of power, which is enough to power nearly three million homes,” said Carter Elliott, Governor Moore’s press secretary. “This will move Maryland forward to achieving the administration’s goal of 100% clean energy by 2035.”

The turbines will undeniably offer a greener power source, but the question of distance may be a simple difference in palette.

“People are looking forward to seeing the turbines offshore as they are quite beautiful and a sign of progress,” Wilson said. “If you’ve seen them in Europe they are spectacular. Nevertheless, I understand everyone has a different subjective viewpoint.”

Offshore wind farm. Courtesy of Unsplash - Yaopey Yong. — Offshore wind farm. Photo by Unsplash – Yaopey Yong.

But that contrast in taste could hurt property values, according to Meehan. As development pushes onward, the mayor continues doubling down that unobstructed views and clean energy can co-exist.

“This will destroy the irreplaceable view of the horizon off our coast forever. The sunrise will never look the same,” Meehan said. “This does not have to happen. The state should be in control of our future, not US Wind.”

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OC AIR SHOW LINE-UP

The Ocean City Art League‘s Art & Activities

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Local Craft Beer & the Arts

Arts Access Programs for Local Schools

Special Events Programming in Ocean City

“The Storm of 1933”

Flooding in the Streets

Abandoning Businesses

Fish Camps and Shanties

The Cutting of the Inlet

OC Air Show Performance Line-Up

Advance Ticket Purchase Discounts Still Available

Viewing the OC Air Show From a Boat

More Airshows along the East Coast

Combatting Mammal “Misinformation”

How the Wind Blows Next

About Us

Follow OceanCity.com

THINGS TO DO
Have A Great Time!

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