Ocean City Businesses Use Creative Signs

Kim DeBoy

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June 24, 2020

Ocean City Businesses Use Creative Signs

Covid Creativity: Locals Use Signs for Communication — Covid Creativity: Locals Use Signs To Communicate with their neighbors

As humans, we are mostly social creatures.

Fish Tales Spreads the Message That We Are OC Strong — Fish Tales Says We Are OC Strong

Our daily lives are filled with conversations with our coworkers, family, friends and strangers. When Ocean City was placed on quarantine restrictions because of Covid-19, much of that communication stopped. Staying home to slow the spread of the virus also meant finding new ways to talk to each other.

Ocean City Businesses Use Creative Signs

“Word of mouth” is an essential tool for small-town businesses. Tourists to Ocean City often ask, “Where do the locals go?” Retail establishments, restaurants and bars,

even Realty offices depend on recommendations, both online and in person, to boost their sales. With the loss of face to face interactions, how do we connect with those who visit?

Coastal Highway is lined with marquees touting huge sales and happy hour specials. Businesses in West OC, Berlin and Ocean Pines all use their signage for advertising, as well. When Maryland imposed a lock down to help slow the spread of the Coronavirus, many of these signs changed their purpose.

Signs in Ocean Pines Spread Positive Messages — Ocean Pines Signs Spread Positivity

Some stuck to the conveyance of information, while others took an inspirational turn. Messages of unity and cooperation began to spring up everywhere.

Signs Of The Times

Ocean Pines Parks Were Closed for Months

As restrictions slowly allowed for more Ocean City Businesses

to open at safe levels, establishments turned to the use of their marquees to keep guests aware of new hours and restrictions. Some attractions, such as public parks and playgrounds, needed to continue closures in order to promote social distancing.

Although a sad sight, the abandoned jungle gyms and swing sets were boldy marked with caution tape and custom signs, in order to communicate to residents and guests of the safety risks. Personally, seeing these places that are usually bustling with activity stand empty, created an eerie feeling that I am sure many other humans have been experiencing during these unprecedented times. Everywhere felt like a ghost town.

Obvious Frustrations Displayed By Ocean City Businesses

As the weeks and months of quarantine dragged on, frustrations rose around Ocean City. Businesses were understandably terrified at the thought of losing the revenue that a Summer season usually brings. Bars and restaurants especially, were in panic mode.

Hooters In West OC Communicates With Customers

Many establishments, and Maryland residents in general, were becoming increasingly displeased with our Governor’s slow and steady approach to reopening small businesses. Many used their marquees to express that frustration, and hopefully spurn action on our leaders’ behalf.

Business owners also took grievance with the lack of a set timeline for these re-openings. Often, they were only given a handful of days to prepare for each new step in Maryland’s Roadmap to Recovery.

Some OC Businesses Still Find Humor in Tumultuous Times

Ocean Resorts Golf Club Uses Humor in Signage — Ocean Resorts Golf Club Shows Humor When Closed

As temperatures rise, filling the town with more visitors, Ocean City is still trying to play it safe. And rightfully so, with the number of Covid-19 cases steadily rising in parts of the country. The incidents in Worcester County has stayed so low, however, that it has been difficult for some to understand why they are still being held to restrictions.

Bull on the Beach Has Jokes — Bull on the Beach Has Got Jokes

Luckily, although tensions may be high, some businesses are managing to keep their sense of humor. And they are sharing their cleverness on marquees around town. Although the future is still uncertain for the Summer of 2020, they say there is a healing power in laughter. Perhaps a few chuckles will lift spirits around Ocean City.

Please Wear Masks And Keep Your Distance

Vantage Realty Shares Good Advice With A Laugh

As more restrictions are lifted, and all the amusements and entertainment centers gather more guests, there are still challenges to face. One thing is for sure: We all have to take care of each other.

We at OceanCity.com would like to remind you that while we go back to work and play, we must help to keep each other safe. Even though it is starting to feel more like a “normal” Summer in our little beach town, Covid-19 is still a very real threat.

Please Respect and Protect Local Businesses

Physical distancing and wearing masks in crowded and indoor spaces have proven to be our best tools for protecting our residents and visitors. All of these signs that you are seeing in hotels, and shops on the boardwalk, are there to protect both those who are working and those who are playing.

Please respect and protect our Ocean City guidelines, so that we can continue to be your “Happy Place!”

Crooked Hammock Hosts Shore Craft Beer Cruise on OC Bay Hopper

Kim DeBoy

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June 22, 2020

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Crooked Hammock Hosts Shore Craft Beer Cruise on OC Bay Hopper

Shore Craft Beer Cruise on OC Bay Hopper — Crooked Hammock Brewery Takes Over Shore Craft Beer Cruise

Shore Craft Beer Cruises are back! Thursdays this summer are all about local beers on the bay. Shore Craft Beer is again offering weekly sunset cruises aboard the OC Bay Hopper. Each week will be hosted by some of our favorite local breweries.

Crooked Hammock Takes Over Shore Craft Beer Cruise

This past Thursday, founder of Crooked Hammock Brewery, Rich Garrahan, and head of new Lewes location, Tom Little, hopped aboard the OC Bay Hopper to share some of their easily crushable brews.

Garrahan and Little both emphasized their brewery’s mission to provide easy drinking beers, all year long. The goal is beverages for relaxing, carefree days, which is evident itself in the brewery’s name. Focusing on brews with lower alcohol levels, Crooked Hammock allows consumers to comfortably enjoy their breezy beers.

Local Brewery Provides “Summer In A Can,” All Year Long

Crooked Hammock Shore Craft Beer Cruise — Why Enjoy One Crooked Hammock Beer, When You Can Have Two?

This easygoing philosophy is evident in the naming of the brewery’s offerings. The essence of summer can be savored year round in brews such as Beach Escape IPA, and South to Somewhere, a surprise hit on the cruise. Tom Little noted that even customers who claim to not like coconut, enjoy it in this refreshing golden ale.

Four Tires, the brewery’s featured lager, evokes the feeling of spontaneous road trips with friends, “the modern American adventure,” as described by Garrahan. Brand New Day, a personal fave, boasts the bright flavors of a grown-up fruit punch, but has a smooth balance between sour and sweet.

Shore Craft Beer Cruises provide two beer samples per customer, but Crooked Hammock brought four options for guests to choose from, or purchase additionally. The options are so tasty that many passengers on the OC Bay Hopper could not resist!

Shore Craft Beer Cruises Offer Brews With a View

Ocean City Skyline from OC Bay Hopper Shore Craft Beer Cruise — Enjoy Views of the Ocean City Skyline at Sunset Aboard the Shore Craft Beer Cruise

The sunset cruises launch from Sneaky Pete’s, bay front deck bar of Hooper’s Crab House , every Thursday evening at 7 pm. The leisurely voyage wanders around the shores of the Assawoman Bay, providing unique views of Assateague Island and Ocean City.

Enjoy tasty beverages while you catch sight of Osprey nests, commercial fishing boats in action, locals and tourists alike enjoying our waterfront community. While the Shore Craft Beer Cruise is a perfect two-hour sunset jaunt, OC Bay Hopper does offer trips around to many famous Ocean City seaside establishments

Grab a couple friends and get on board! The next Shore Craft Beer cruise sets sail this Thursday, June 25th. Seat numbers are limited as the OC Bay Hopper continues to observe safe distancing guidelines, so book your seat today!

Commercial Fishing Boat at Work, The Tony & Jan Out of West Ocean City

Crooked Hammock Takes Over Shore Craft Beer Cruise on OC Bay Hopper

Witness All Kinds of Watercraft aboard the Shore Craft Beer Cruise

The Judith M Takes a Cruise Under Ocean City Drawbridge

Shore Craft Beer Cruises Launch From Sneaky Pete’s

Make New Friends on the Shore Craft Beer Cruise

Ocean City Skyline at Dusk Aboard the Shore Craft Beer Cruise

Crooked Hammock Brewery Talks Beer on the Shore Craft Beer Cruise

Check Out the Sites of Assateague Island from the OC Bay Hopper

Shore Craft Beer Cruises Begin and End At Sneaky Pete's — Shore Craft Beer Cruises Begin and End At Sneaky Pete’s in West OC

Ocean City Sunsets Just Look Better From the Bay!

Ocean City Crab Houses Expand Outdoor Dining

Kim DeBoy

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June 20, 2020

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Ocean City Crab Houses Expand Outdoor Dining

Ocean City Maryland Crabs — Click Here to Find MD Crabs in OC

Picking blue crabs is one of Ocean City’s favorite summertime activities. Born and bred in Maryland, I have a lifetime of memories that all take place around a picnic table covered in newspaper and Old Bay. There are usually cold beers and bad jokes, and too many conversations going on at once. Don’t tell anyone I said this, but crab feasts are about more than just the crabs: They are a social event.

OC Crab Houses Increase Outdoor Dining Areas

There is no shortage of crab houses in Ocean City. Don’t ask a group of locals which one is the best, unless you’ve got time for a heated debate. Some prefer getting a bushel to take home to their back yard. Others like sitting on a deck for all-you-can-eat, and letting someone else clean up. (Please tip your waitstaff!) No matter what, we can all agree that picking crabs is best done in the sunshine.

Due to current health regulations keeping us safe in the wake of Covid-19, every establishment that is able has been creatively optimizing their outdoor spaces. Many restaurant parking lots around town have been roped off with everything from caution tape to beach fencing. For some places, providing outdoor dining has required a complete overhaul of how they usually do business. Some of these changes have meant investing in canopies, umbrellas, and even new furniture that can brave the elements.

Blue Crabs, Old Bay and Sunshine in Ocean City

Luckily, restaurants who serve Maryland’s favorite saltwater delicacy are accustomed to picnic tables. Outdoor dining is commonplace in Ocean City crab houses, who may have had the advantage of experience when the area came under stronger restrictions. Decks and screened patios can be found all around town, and the traditional use of paper table coverings makes clean up between guests a cinch.

If you are looking for a great spot to enjoy your own crab feast this weekend, check out our directory for the unlimited possibilities of making your seafood dreams come true. And take a look at all the beautiful places to enjoy your Maryland blue crabs, al fresco!

Crab Bag in Uptown Ocean City — The Crab Bag Converts Parking Lot into Outdoor Dining Room

Crabs To Go West Ocean City — Outdoor Seating, Carryout and Delivery at Crabs To Go in West Ocean City

Higgins Crab House Outdoor Dining — Higgins Crab House North Colorfully Expands Outdoor Dining

OCM Crabs Outdoor Dining — OCM Crab House Uses Parking Spaces to Seat Outdoor Diners

On The Bay Seafood Outdoor Dining — On the Bay Seafood, With an Important Message for Ocean City

This Week on the Beach

Anne

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June 19, 2020

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After great weather last week, the weather this week started out quite cool, damp and windy, not the best for relaxing on the beach, but visitors, with sweat shirts on, made the most of it. Then by Thursday, blue skies had made their long awaited return and the sun came out again. Here are some pictures from this week on the beach in Ocean City .

Many Ocean City Special Events Will Return in Summer 2020!

Logan Dubel

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June 18, 2020

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Many Ocean City Special Events Will Return in Summer 2020!

Town special events including Sundaes in the Park, Beach Dance Parties, and Sunset Park Party Nights are officially ON for this summer! This move comes after the town of Ocean City received approval from the Worcester County Health Department. Safety measures such as physical distancing will be in place, but regardless, these events will make summer 2020 feel far more customary in Ocean City.

Sundaes in the Park

Sundaes in the Park are resuming June 21^st and will run each Sunday through September 6^th from 7 – 9 p.m. Listen to live music while eating ice cream and sipping beverages, which are available for purchase. Admission is free. Be sure to bring picnic blankets and beach chairs! Fireworks will take place at 9 p.m.

OC Beach Dance Parties

Additionally, OC Beach Dance Parties on the Caroline Street stage are returning this summer in both July and August, every Thursday from 8:30 – 10:30 p.m.

Sunset Park Party Nights

Sunset Park Party Nights, a joint project between the town and the Ocean City Development Corporation (OCDC), will begin July 2^nd and continue each Thursday night at South Division Street and The Bay from 7 – 9 p.m. through the end of August. Admission is free and beverages are available for purchase. It is recommended that you bring your own seating. Glenn Irwin, Executive Director of OCDC says that on July 2^nd and August 27^th, there will be a food truck present. He adds that on July 16^th and August 27^th, there will also be craft beers available for purchase.

Life-Saving Station Museum

The Ocean City Life-Saving Station Museum is offering free programs Monday-Saturday through August 22^nd. All programs will take place outdoors and include opportunities to learn about the history of surfmen, beach safety, and sharks. Click here for more information.

ArtX

ArtX, which is run at Northside Park, is also back this summer on August 22^nd and 23^rd. This event showcases the work of local artists and amateur filmmakers. Interactive activities and on-site workshops are available to help you hone your skills, and live music will help to keep you entertained and on your feet! Gourmet vendors, food trucks, beer, and wine will be on-site.

Air Show, Jellyfish Festival, & Bikefest

There is plenty of optimism when it comes to the Ocean City Air Show! The long wait to see the Blue Angels and other jets will soon be over according to the Air Show’s Facebook page, which says that a new date will be announced this month. Better yet, the new date will be for later this summer (August) and will be announced to the public as soon as the military and town of Ocean City provide more guidance. Stay tuned to see the official rescheduled date!

Other Ocean City staples such as the Jellyfish Festival will be held on September 12^th and 13^th, while the OC Bikefest will take place from September 17^th – 20^th.

July 4th Fireworks – Postponed

City Manager Doug Miller recommended the postponement of Independence Day fireworks on June 15th. After discussion by the Ocean City Council on June 16th, that recommendation became official. Special Events Superintendent Frank Miller says that the council discussed possible dates for the rescheduled fireworks at their work session on Tuesday, June 23^rd.

White Marlin Open & Sunfest

The White Marlin Open is still on! Join in on the fun from August 3^rd – 7^th!

Sunfest is rescheduled to October 1^st – 4^th.

Springfest – Date Announced for Spring of 2021

There is one event that will have to wait for next year. Springfest, which would have taken place from May 8^th through May 10^th, will come back from May 6^th – May 9^th, 2021. Tickets purchased for this year will be honored next year or can be refunded.

More Information

After a difficult three months of the coronavirus pandemic, Ocean City residents and tourists are surely ready for their favorite summer events to resume! Please click here for more information regarding all special events in Ocean City.

Creature Feature: Horseshoe Crabs

Maryland Coastal Bays Program

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June 18, 2020

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Horseshoe Crabs: Coming to a beach near you!

Habitat and History:

Horseshoe crabs on Homer Gudelsky Park beach — Photo by Lisa Guerriero

Horseshoe crabs in Ocean City are not an uncommon sight. Dating back 450 million years, horseshoe crabs have been given the nickname “living fossils”. Something surprising to note is that horseshoe crabs are actually not crabs at all! In fact, many are fascinated to discover that this species is more closely related to spiders and scorpions than crabs. There are four different species of horseshoe crabs found throughout the world, but only one of those species is found in North America. This species is known as the American horseshoe crab (Limulus polyphemus). This species can be found from Maine, down the Atlantic Coast around Florida, and into the Gulf of Mexico and Yucatan Peninsula. As bottom-dwelling creatures, horseshoe crabs are typically found in deeper estuarine environments or near the continental shelf.

Spawning horseshoe crabs on Sunset Island in Ocean City — Spawning horseshoe crabs by Carol Sottili

Harmless helmet heads:

When first time you lay eyes on a horseshoe crab, you may see it as a threat. However, these creatures are completely harmless to humans! If you look closely at the head of the horseshoe crab, you will see that it looks like a brownish-green, horseshoe-shaped military helmet. This hard shell is called an exoskeleton and will molt 16 – 17 times as the horseshoe crab grows out of its old shell.

Their exoskeletons are broken into three distinguishable sections: the head, the abdomen, and the tail. The hard exoskeleton protects the head, which contains all the major organs, the mouth, and all five pairs of its’ legs. The abdomen is triangle- shaped with spines on the sides and contains the muscles that move them about and gills that resemble pages in a book. The tail, or telson, is hard and comes to a sharp point. However, there is no need to worry about it hurting you. Their tails are not used to sting or stab, but rather to help steer or flip the horseshoe crabs over if they get stuck upside down.

Another interesting fact about horseshoe crabs is that they have nine eyes spaced around their bodies and an array of light receptors on their tails. Some of these eyes are used to detect light, while others are complex enough to develop images! Next time you see a horseshoe crab, look close to see if you spot any of its eyes!

Attached horseshoe crabs on Assateague Island National Seashore bayside — Photo by Amanda Poskaitis, NWF

Sandy Spawning Grounds:

Spawning season in the Coastal Bays is from May to July. The horseshoe crabs will travel from deeper waters in the Atlantic, through the Ocean City inlet, and into our Coastal Bays. During this time, thousands of horseshoe crabs can be seen spawning on our bayside beaches. To tell the difference between a male and female horseshoe crab, look at the size and difference in body structure. The males are approximately 25% smaller than the females and have a clasping claw that is used to hang on to females during spawning. Numerous males will surround a single female in hopes of fertilizing some or all the eggs laid. An individual female horseshoe crab can lay up to 90,000 eggs during a single season! These eggs are also an important food for numerous migrating shorebird species.

Proper handling on the sides of a horseshoe crab — Proper handling. Photo by Liz Wist

Helpful Hint:

To properly handle a horseshoe crab, grab both sides of its shell and gently pick it up. Do not pick the horseshoe crab up by its tail as this can cause harm or cause the tail to break off.

Author Background:

Carly Toulan is an environmental scientist at the Maryland Coastal Bays Program. One of her responsibilities is to work with DNR to help conduct, organize, and schedule volunteers for the annual horseshoe crab surveys. If you have any questions regarding more information on horseshoe crabs or if you would like more information on the volunteer portion of the horseshoe crab surveys, please contact her at ctoulan@mdcoastalbays.org. Please visit Maryland Coastal Bays Program’s website and Facebook to explore more about the bays!

More Creature Features here.

Local OC Musicians Find Inspiration During Trying Times

Kim DeBoy

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June 16, 2020

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Local OC Musicians Find Inspiration During Trying Times

Creative Innovations in Times of Covid

Ocean City is home to thousands of businesses who are all developing new ways to stay afloat in the wake of a global pandemic. The food and beverage industry, as the backbone of our resort town, is changing before our eyes. Outdoor dining spaces are popping up in parking lots. Most restaurants have altered their menus to facilitate easier carry out options. Others have morphed into makeshift grocery stores in order to fill the gaps of local shortages. All of them are scrambling to cover the cost of inventory purchased in preparation for another busy summer season.

Our entertainment industry, being critical to most vacation plans, has experienced its own upheaval. Until recently, mini-golf courses and amusement parks sat empty. Annual events were cancelled, and every venue for live shows fell silent. Local musicians found themselves without an audience.

As restrictions are slowly lifted, what does live music look like in a world of social distancing?

Natalie Davis Trio

OC Live Bands Keep the Music Alive with Creativity and Technology — Natalie Davis Trio

The Natalie Davis Trio is a relatively new musical act on the Ocean City scene, but its members carry decades of combined performing experience. To say that music is their “job” is to belittle their passion. When Covid-19 forced bars and restaurants to close for safety precautions, drummer/vocalist Scott Glorioso says performers lost much more than than just a job: “It’s our money, but it’s also our fun, our lifestyle, our art.”

Bassist/vocalist Kasey Briggs lost years of work toward finally living out his dream as a working musician. This summer was to be the first in which he performed full time, without the necessity of also bartending or waiting tables. And then the world fell apart. He struggled through the first few weeks of closures: “Picking up a guitar was a source of depression for me.” The usual excitement to play was replaced with fear and doubt. Everything he had been grinding toward seemed to be drifting away.

When quarantine was instituted statewide, lead vocalist/keyboardist, Natalie Davis, faced the added challenge of being miles away from her band mates. Living in Belair, she drives two hours for practices and performances. With traveling no longer an option, and no real idea of when the restrictions would lift, she turned inward: “It gave me a chance to slow down and really look at things that were playing a factor in my music, my voice, and what performing means to me.”

Troubling times often force introspection, and that is where change is born.

Ocean City Band Looks Forward to Live Performances

Briggs, inspired by fellow performers, introduced the idea of virtual practices. Through the help of an application called Acapella, The Natalie Davis Trio got back to work. Each member is able to record their own parts of a song, to which the others can then synchronize and practice along. It allows them to individually experiment with their style of the piece, so that when they practice in person, they can already be prepared. Davis says this new tool is a game changer, and one that will continue to benefit them, “I’m coming back into this with a different lens.”

As a creator, Davis admits that she was battling writer’s block several months ago, and that she actually benefited from the time alone: “I did a lot of searching. Going forward, I feel like I have more material to work with, that I can write more originals.” Glorioso found his own silver lining. As an Ocean City local, he is usually too busy working to appreciate the season. “You might never have a Spring off again, so don’t squander it being miserable.”

Keeping The Music Alive

In a time of crisis, there are still bright lights to be found. The Trio has resumed live practices thanks to the generosity of the community. Burn, a wood fired pizza joint in Berlin, donated their empty dining area, plenty of space for safely distanced jams. And thanks to the relationships they have built with venue owners during their careers, Briggs and Glorioso already know which venues are prepared to protect everyone once indoor performances begin. Since 80% of their shows are at outside locales, they are hopeful for a busy season.

These three enterprising musicians may have been miles apart during unprecedented times, but that only seems to have bolstered their connection and drive. With a little bit of technology and a whole lot of honesty, they agreed to make decisions together on a case by case basis. Davis stressed that communication within the band is the key to making sure they are all comfortable with where they are performing. Aptly, she stated, “That’s the hardest part about this: it’s not about one person, it’s about ALL of us.”

Ocean City Council and Mayor Address Boardwalk Incidents

Logan Dubel

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June 16, 2020

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Ocean City Council and Mayor Address Boardwalk Incidents

The Ocean City Council and Mayor led one of the most heated meetings ever Monday evening, tackling the issue of keeping visitors and residents safe following recent incidents on the Boardwalk. The rush to ensure the safety of tourists comes after a long week of violence along Ocean City’s Boardwalk. Members of the public made their passionate and caring voices heard, pleading for elected officials to do better and more.

Mayor Meehan, City Council, & Public Comments

City councilmembers and Mayor Rick Meehan addressed public security matters during a separate meeting earlier Monday, which was closed to the public. However, viewers of the lengthy public session, which began an hour later, submitted their questions and were even allowed to speak directly to city officials,. This quickly transformed the meeting into a candid discussion about transparency and accountability. Frustration over the violence was clear and many members of the public stressed that they feel unheard by their elected officials, especially during this challenging time. A property owner even criticized Mayor Meehan directly, asking for transparency, while another attendee called for a seminar between citizens and officials.

In response to the passionate public reaction, Councilmember John Gehrig told his fellow elected officials “I’m done discussing this behind the scenes. I’m going to speak right out in public…The solution is on us; it’s why we were elected.” Mayor Meehan added that more officers need to be added to the police force and that solutions are necessary. He even said, “We shouldn’t be giving lip service, people don’t want it.” Councilmember Tony DeLuca repeated his colleagues’ sentiments, saying that the council “owes the public.”

Councilmember Matt James reacted to the recent events on Facebook Monday afternoon, saying that “Something must be done now to stop these criminals from coming to Ocean City, their behavior is unacceptable and unwanted.” He echoed these concerns during the meeting, saying that “our constituents deserve better.”

At the conclusion of the meeting, Councilmember Gehrig said in part to members of the public, “There are solutions. There are actionable items we can undertake. We can change the message. The message precedes the action. I say “we need” but don’t misunderstand… all of this exists. We have talked about it. Now is the time to do it. Contact me anytime…”

Despite the frustration, there is also a love and passion for Ocean City from members of the public, who are surely ready for change. While there are not yet solutions, officials are optimistic that the problems can be attacked both now and in the future. Members of the public were heard loud and clear and now, they say that it is up to the elected officials to be transparent and put solutions in place, not merely discuss them.

Police Response

Following a weekend of arrests and more unruliness, Ocean City Police Chief Ross Buzzuro released a video Monday morning addressing the unrest. “I can assure you that in the days and weeks ahead, they (police officers) will be doing even more to keep our visitors and residents safe…they will be there to strictly, yet professionally, enforce the law. The kind of behavior we have seen recently will not be tolerated and arrests will be made.”, says Buzzuro. The police chief went on to say that tension is present all over the nation, but that as we have these important conversations, respect and kindness are pertinent.

Hotel Reaction

While these incidents are making headlines, Jackie Ball, one of the owners of the Park Place Hotel on the Boardwalk emphasizes that families should not be discouraged from heading down to the ocean. “What we’ve been telling people is that these are isolated incidents and families do not need to be afraid. All of our guests staying at our hotel have not been affected by this. However, we still want all of these incidents to come to an end soon. We are hoping that this is not something that will continue throughout the summer.”, says Ball. Tonight, there was no question that councilmembers also want everyone to feel safe and secure while visiting.

COVID-19 Update

City Manager Doug Miller announced July 4^th fireworks will not take place, and will be postponed to a later date. Miller also said that the council does not expect any additional applications for outdoor dining on public property due to Governor Larry Hogan’s previous actions to allow limited indoor and outdoor dining. Additionally, Councilmember Gehrig added that many special events are postponed, and some are still waiting on receiving guidance as it relates to social distancing and other health measures. However, he promised that outdoor summer camps are continuing, with nearly 1,000 students signed up, and that an outdoor graduation on the Boardwalk was so successful, that it may be considered again in the future.

The next regularly scheduled meeting is on July 6th at 6:00 p.m.

The Beach this Week in Pictures

Anne

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June 12, 2020

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A selection of photographs taken on the Ocean City beach this week.

Join in on the Summer Fun at Odyssea Watersports!

Logan Dubel

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June 12, 2020

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Join in on the Summer Fun at Odyssea Watersports!

If you’re heading down to the ocean, now is the perfect time to visit Odyssea Watersports! Founded by Ron and the late Sheila Croker in 1997, Odyssea has always been about family. Ever since its founding, Odyssea has been committed to providing top of the line customer service, and over two decades, the company has grown from just 4 employees to well over 20. Now, there is even a second location, which is known as Action Watersports. Creating a safe family atmosphere remains Odyssea’s number one priority.

Family Atmosphere

Manager Justin Clemens says that the family atmosphere sets Odyssea apart from the competition. After all, their motto has always been to “treat customers how you would want to be treated while on vacation.” Clemens adds that “as long as everyone is safe and smiling, it’s a successful day.”

Rentals

Odyssea offers jet ski, paddleboard, kayak, and pontoon boat rentals. If you’re looking to enjoy a wild jet ski ride, you can even rent the small and lightweight Seadoo Trixx jet ski! Additionally, Odyssea offers VIP storage and winterizations for jet skis and boats, as well as a full-service shop where lights, batteries, spark plugs, and more can be repaired. Clemens says that there is even a private beach at Odyssea, something you won’t see anywhere else. Finally, there aren’t any docks, so you don’t have to worry about pulling in or out!

COVID-19 Response

Just like every other business across the nation, Odyssea is also taking safety seriously. Paperwork is now filled out electronically and plastic barriers have been added between employees and customers, limiting contact. Other precautions include regularly wiping down jet skis and disinfecting life jackets. You can also bring your own life jacket or buy a brand new one from Odyssea. Of course, Odyssea encourages social distancing on the beach, but masks are not required when on the water. Clemens says that both employees and customers have been responding well to the new measures.

Fortunately, Clemens says that business has not been negatively affected by the coronavirus. In fact, Clemens says that Odyssea is prospering and that he has “never seen this many people in Ocean City at the beginning of June. It looks like mid-July or August.” In this post-quarantine world, people are ready to visit Ocean City and take part in lower-risk outdoor activities like watersports. Clemens says that the mass return to the outdoors throughout the pandemic has helped not only Odyssea Watersports thrive, but many other outdoor recreational businesses as well.

You can visit Odyssea Watersports at 5003c Coastal Highway Ocean City, MD 21842

Book your next water adventure here!

For more stories about Odyssea Watersports, click here.

Ocean City Hotels Welcome Back Tourists with New Safety Precautions

Logan Dubel

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June 11, 2020

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Ocean City Hotels Welcome Back Tourists with New Safety Precautions

In Wednesday’s press conference, Governor Larry Hogan and Deputy Secretary for Public Health Services Fran Phillips stressed that just because you can do something, it does not mean that you should. This dilemma is intensifying for many Marylanders as indoor dining is set to kick off along with the reopening of outdoor recreational activities such as amusement parks and miniature golf. Since Ocean City hotels reopened in May, employees have been working around the clock to educate its employees about new safety precautions that must be taken to ensure the safety of tourists.

Bringing back tourists and restarting the economy are paramount steps for Ocean City. Hotel occupancy was just 24.6% in April when lodging was restricted to only essential workers as compared to 50.7% occupancy in April 2019. Susan Jones, Executive Director of the Ocean City Hotel-Motel-Restaurant Association says that this has been “an economic disaster”. Since mid-May, hotels across Ocean City have been allowed to resume operations, but every hotel took a different approach. “Mostly everyone is open now, but when the stay-at-home order was lifted, not every hotel opened. Some took a wait-and-see approach.”, says Jones.

Another remaining concern is the shortage of employees to fill the thousands of seasonal jobs that Ocean City provides. Jones adds that J-1 workers have not arrived and that there are “lots of people and not a lot of employees. We have to find out how to service these tourists.”

Safety Precautions

If you’re nervous about staying safe while in Ocean City, local hotels say that plenty of plans are being put in place to reassure visitors. At both the Clarion Resort and the Aloft, social distancing and masks are required, specifically in common areas, and signs are posted all over to remind visitors of these mandates. Managers at both hotels say that housekeeping is not visiting rooms daily. Instead, cleaning will not be completed until the end of your stay. A manager for the Clarion Resort says that they are “paying close attention to high-touch areas…and we did just order several electrostatic spray machines to spray down rooms.”

The Clarion is among many Ocean City businesses missing J-1 employees. Instead, the Clarion is using outside contractors for laundry and other cleaning services. Cleaning protocols are similar at the Aloft, but they have not suffered from a fragmented workforce like the Clarion. A salesperson at the Aloft says that nearly all employees have returned and that Aloft does not typically employ J-1 workers. Pools at both hotels are open at limited capacity. Both hotels insist that the perfect weather over the last few weeks has made Ocean City a post-quarantine destination and that visitors are surely returning, even though it might not be back to normal just yet.

Training Program

In another effort to promote safety, The Ocean City Hotel-Motel-Restaurant Association and other organizations have partnered with The Maryland Center for Hospitality Training and have bought royalties to the “Back to Work Training Program”. Susan Jones says that this two-hour webinar training provides employees with a look at the science behind COVID-19 as well as proper safety measures. At the end of the webinar, employees will earn a “Back to Safety” certification. To learn more about the training program, click here. Jones and fellow economic development leaders also gathered in April to develop safety precautions for employees in the hospitality industry. These guidelines were sent to Annapolis and some were even adopted by the state of Maryland. Finally, Jones adds that an app is eventually going to be developed to show tourists what businesses have signed the governor’s “Back to Business” pledge.

Welcome Back!

Even though business leaders are working hard to get the local economy running, many people are still nervous about traveling. Jones says that getting people to travel and stopping the stigma is “another burden”. However, between new advertisements from local business leaders and Mayor Rick Meehan’s “Welcome Back” campaign, there is hope that visitors will come to the beach and save the summer season, all while staying safe.

Despite the low occupancy numbers in April, Jones is personally optimistic that the hot and sunny weather, along with appropriate safety protocols, will bring people back to the beach. “One of the good things is that in every study I have seen, we are very fortunate to be in this location. People are not going to feel as safe to fly, and Ocean City is in driving distance to one-third of the nation’s population. It is very easy to social distance on the beach.”, says Jones.

Despite the COVID-19 calamity, tourists can have faith that if they visit Ocean City, the hospitality industry has multiple safeguards in place to ensure the welfare of all visitors.

Governor Hogan Opens Indoor Dining, Outdoor Amusements, and Miniature Golf.

Logan Dubel

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June 10, 2020

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Governor Hogan Opens Indoor Dining, Outdoor Amusements, and Miniature Golf.

Restaurants

At 5:00 p.m. on Wednesday, Governor Larry Hogan announced what Maryland restaurant owners have been waiting to hear for three months – restaurants can officially reopen for indoor dining at 50% capacity on Friday at 5:00 p.m. This is the governor’s second action within Stage Two of Maryland’s Roadmap to Recovery. To view guidance for restaurants, click here.

This news is thrilling to many restaurant owners across Ocean City, who have been ready to return to normalcy. “We are prepping our dining room and spreading tables apart right now. We are hoping to get the green light today at 5:00!”, says Greg Shockley, owner of Shenanigan’s Pub. He and many other restaurant owners did indeed get that green light, and they say that they will be ready to go come Friday evening.

The famous view outside of Fager’s Island will now be seen by more patrons!

Fager’s Island, another Ocean City staple, is also among the establishments excited by the governor’s amended order. Earlier Wednesday, owner John Fager questioned why Maryland has been hesitant to begin limited indoor dining, pointing directly to information from the Maryland Department of Health, which says that “The vast majority of people recover from this infection.” Fager then asked, “Why is Maryland still locked down?” and added, “It’s time to fully open up.” Businesses like Fager’s depend on a busy and successful tourist season to stay afloat.

Governor Hogan’s announcement comes after many businesses were angered by his previous announcement on June 3^th, which made no mention of restaurants. Restaurants have been open for outdoor dining since May 29^th, but many owners said it simply wasn’t good enough. Wednesday, Hogan said, “While we are continuing to battle this deadly virus, we are also fighting to protect and improve the health of suffering Marylanders and small businesses…that’s why we’re continuing to push to safely reopen more and more of our economy.”

Ocean City restaurants are encouraging social distancing!

In an open letter to Governor Hogan, Susan Jones, Executive Director of the Ocean City Hotel-Motel-Restaurant Association voiced her frustration following his press conference last week. “How it is ok for big box stores that are indoors to be open and not indoor dining is beyond me?” Following the governor’s press conference, Jones said, ” Health officials finally see the need to balance the economic health of small businesses and the thousands of Marylanders not working…Thank you Governor Hogan”.

Outdoor Amusements

Also on Friday, outdoor recreational activities including miniature golf, go-karts, and rides may being operations. Capacity at pools will also increase to 50% from the previously mandated 25%. All of this is certainly positive and reassuring news for Ocean City tourism! To view guidance for outdoor amusements, click here.

June 19th

Pointing to declining numbers, Hogan even added that at 5:00 p.m. on June 19^th, indoor gyms and indoor studios may open at 50% capacity. Casinos, arcades, and malls may also reopen on June 19^th.

Schools

State Superintendent of Schools Karen Salmon joined Governor Hogan for today’s press conference with encouraging news.

She says that small groups (10-15 students) are now able to enter school buildings for summer instruction. Additionally, non-public special education schools may also reopen.

To the delight of many students, Hogan announced that he encourages school systems to plan outdoor graduation ceremonies with physical distancing measures in place.

Outdoor high school sporting activities may resume for practice and training.

Child care providers are also able to reopen, with a maximum of 15 children per classroom.

Finally, Salmon said that plans regarding the reopening of schools in the fall will come later in the summer once the state has entered Stage Three.

Testing

Hogan touted more testing, which has increased by 429% over the last 50 days. 6.4% of the population has been tested, and 100% of nursing home residents and staff have been tested. The state positivity rate is now just 7.2% and he says that we have “crushed the curve”. He also spoke about recent protests across Maryland, and said that he encourages every protester to get tested for the coronavirus. This will be made possible by multiple new high-volume testing sites across Central Maryland.

To view the governor’s amended executive order, click here.

Experience Ocean City’s Shore Craft Beer Cruises Aboard the OC Bay Hopper

OceanCity.com

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June 10, 2020

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Experience Ocean City’s Shore Craft Beer Cruises Aboard the OC Bay Hopper

What’s a Shore Craft Beer Cruise?

Shore Craft Beer and the OC Bay Hopper, in collaboration with craft breweries across Delmarva, teamed up to offer Craft Beer Cruises again this summer: An opportunity for people to enjoy fantastic views from the water on Thursday evenings while drinking, and learning all about, local craft beer. Social distancing is accomplished by selling three zones in the boat. Aft, port and starboard sections. You and your family or friends can buy a section and have as many as four in your group. The total number of passengers allowed is 9.

Through October, the OC Bay Hopper will embark from the dock at Hopper’s in West Ocean City and put the Shore’s World Class Beer and World Class Beauty on full display, sailing two hours to Assateague Island and back. There will be one bathroom break mid-way.

Some cruises provide a wide variety of Shore beers which will give you a great survey of many breweries here on the Shore. Other cruises feature “Tap Takeovers,” where a representative from one brewery hosts the cruise to tell guests about their brewery and their beer. Tall Tales Brewing from Parsonsburg, 3rd Wave and Big Oyster have controlled the “tap” on craft beer cruises last year and are joining the line-up again this year. Crooked Hammock will join the cruises for the first time this year as they have gotten a license to distribute in Maryland. Ann Hillyer founder of Shore Craft Beer will host the survey cruises and provide many different craft beers from which to choose .

A ticket aboard the Bay Hopper’s Shore Craft Beer Cruise includes two complimentary beers of the ticketholder’s choosing, and additional beers are available for purchase thereafter.

Cruise participants can grab dinner and drinks at Sneaky Pete’s before or after their cruise. Sneaky Pete’s is behind Hooper’s Crab House on the water next to the Route 50 bridge. It is a wonderful place to enjoy the Bay before and after the cruises. Their kitchen is open for food and their bar for drinks and beer. They are home to Fin City Brewing and know good craft beer. You can also order take-out and get it as you board the boat for your Shore Craft Beer Cruise.

Craft Beer Cruises depart at 7 p.m. on Thursday evenings; cruises are selling out fast, so it’s recommended that guests purchase their tickets in advance.

More information can be found online here and by calling 410-777-5145.

Now enjoy some scenic photos from Ocean City’s Shore Craft Beer Cruises last year!

Shore Craft Beer Cruise Feat. Tall Tales Brewing Co. (Parsonsburg, MD)

Tall Tales rep. Bree educates cruisers on the makings of a Tall Tales beer.

A variety of beer styles are available from each brewery on the Craft Beer Cruise; Here, guests photograph Tall Tales’ Los Lobos Mexican Lager and their Mother Juice New England IPA.

Osprey nests are plenty on the boat ride to Assateague.

Shore Craft Beer Cruise Featuring 3rd Wave Brewing Co. (Delmar, DE)

Some of the best views in town can be found as you’re leaving the West Ocean City marina, especially as sunset approaches.

The sunset is complete with a Sunset Peach Pale Ale.

Shore Craft Beer Cruise Featuring Burley Oak (Berlin, MD)

Burley Oak rep. Matt talks about Burley’s famous Lost IPA.

The Ocean City skyline + Burley’s Sour Chicky Berliner Weisse = heaven.

See more pictures on Shore Craft Beer.

All Aboard Ocean City’s First Craft Beer Cruise – Starts June 27th!

Craft beer cruises are back in Ocean City. You can actually book and pay for a craft beer cruise around the West Ocean City harbor, Assateague, and more. Explore Ocean City from the water with a cold LOCAL craft beer in hand.

Ocean City Beach and Boardwalk Activities

Ann

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June 8, 2020

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Ocean City Beach and Boardwalk Activities

Post COVID-Activities That You Can Enjoy Now on the Beach and Boardwalk in Ocean City

As restrictions ease on activities across the state, Ocean City is welcoming visitors back to a safe and healthy environment! There are some differences from the activities allowed in years past. Some of these changes and closures will be temporary so check back often to get an up-do-date list of allowed activities.

Current Rules and Restrictions

The Ocean & Boardwalk

The ocean is always open and the beach patrol are in their stands from 10 am until 5:30 pm every day. Please keep your feet in the sand until the beach patrol are in their stands! Swimming and surfing is allowed. The surfing beaches rotate and the schedule can be found here. You may bring your own umbrellas or you may rent from the vendors on the beach. Some are open and others are not yet. Your hotel should be able to tell you what is available on the area of beach you intend to visit. On the beaches, you can enjoy your space in the sand, but please remember that social distancing is recommended and that no smoking is allowed. There are designated smoking areas at the back of the beach.

Trams

Trams are not operating at this time.

Pets

For the beach and boardwalk pets are not allowed on the beaches or boardwalk from now until September. Pet owners can let their dogs run free at the various pet parks throughout Ocean City. Pets are also allowed to be leashed and walked on the streets. We have lots of pet-friendly hotels and even some restaurants, so bring your furry friends with you, but please follow the rules. For information on traveling to Ocean City with pets, click here.

Bonfires

Cooking, grilling and bonfires are prohibited unless a permit is received from the fire marshal. Grilling and bonfires are allowed at the national park on Assateague Island. A bonfire below the mean high tide line is allowed at any time. Details on Assateague are available here.

Bicycles skateboards, and rollerblades

The boardwalk also has restricted hours for certain activities. Bikes can be rented and ridden on the boardwalk from 2 am to 11 am daily. Skateboarding follows similar rules; riding is only allowed until from 2 a.m. to 11 a.m. until the end of September. Skateboarders are also able to use the skatepark on 3rd street. During the summer, you may not rollerskate or rollerblade on the Boardwalk.

You can rent bicycles, wheel chairs and segways on the Boardwalk at various locations.

Restaurants for Outdoor Dining & Take-out; New picnic tables

Restaurants are open for take-out, delivery, and outdoor dining. Some restaurants have added additional outdoor space thanks to rapid approvals by the Mayor and City Council. The Mayor and Council have also added picnic tables on the beach for your use. They are first come, first served and available at no cost. Alcohol is not allowed on the beach or boardwalk despite your ability to order beer and drinks for carry-out. If you encounter lines at any of the restaurants, please be sure to remember that we need to stay safe and healthy in order to remain open, so please social distance and wear masks.

Public Restrooms

Boardwalk restrooms are open and being cleaned regularly, but masks are required.

Scopes

Generations of Ocean City vacationers will remember Scopes and may even have a collection of these photographs. The famous Scopes photographers are back on the sand and ready to add to your collection of memories. Scopes are the images taken of families and friends by Scopes beach photographers and placed inside a small telescope as a memento. For group photos, Scopes is taking all necessary measures to ensure guests feel safe and comfortable. Owner Jon Cameron currently has their kiosks running at 50% and has them well equipped with proper sanitation supplies. Customers are still encouraged to come in and pick up their photos at an assigned time. While on the beach, the Scopes photographers are also prepared and taking all necessary safety measures. All photographers will have facemasks available and be adhering to proper social distancing guidelines. After pictures are taken, the photographers will hand out bracelets with the Scopes name and “Ocean City Strong” on the reverse side. Scopes may be operating in smaller numbers, but guests can be reassured that photographers will still be present on beaches this summer!

Captain Schoepf Relay set for Sunday June 14

Anne

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June 8, 2020

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Captain Schoepf Relay set for Sunday June 14

Ocean City, Maryland – (June 8, 2020): The Ocean City Beach Patrol’s annual Captain Schoepf Relay will be held at 10 a.m. on Sunday, June 14. Captain Schoepf served on the Beach Patrol from 1950 to 1996, at which time he retired after more than 40 years of service to the Town of Ocean City.

A classic steel rescue buoy is passed along by alumni guards and current lifeguards. The relay begins at 7th Street, Captain Schoepf’s original stand, with a run to the end of Ocean City followed by a swim the entire length of Ocean City. The buoy is returned to the beach and run back to the starting point at 7th Street. The direction of the relay is contingent upon the prevailing ocean current on the morning of the relay

Each year the starting leg of the relay is completed by a member of Captain Schoepf’s family or OCBP alumni. “This annual relay not only reminds everyone involved of the past contributions of George Schoepf, but also of the contribution and sacrifices of all past and present Beach Patrol lifeguards,” said Beach Patrol Captain Butch Arbin. “It also keeps the current Surf Rescue Technicians (lifeguards) in touch with the beginning of this world class organization as they run and swim with an antique piece of lifesaving equipment (the metal buoy) that was once carried by all Ocean City lifeguards.”

Captain Schoepf began his career with the Ocean City Beach Patrol in 1950 and worked his way through the ranks, promoted to sergeant, then to lieutenant. With the approval of the Mayor and City Council, Schoepf became Assistant to the Captain in the late 1960’s and was appointed to Captain in 1987.

In addition to George Schoepf’s service to the Town of Ocean City, he also retired from Wicomico County Schools where he ended his successful career as a Teacher and Coach at Wi High. For more information about the Ocean City Beach Patrol’s Annual Captain Schoepf Relay, please contact 410.289.7556.

The Warm Days of Summer are Here at the Beach

Photoblogs

Anne

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June 6, 2020

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The Warm Days of Summer are Here at the Beach

Visitors to the beach this week were lucky enough to have warm, even hot weather, calm seas, and tidal pools. While there were plenty of people on the beach, it could not be said that the beaches were crowded, so social distancing was possible. We have here a collection of photos taken this week on the beach in Ocean City.