Holiday's at the Sea Decorations

A few week's ago I posted on some Sea-Worthy Holiday decorations, a few I made last year and a few I plan to try my hand at this year.  I've slacked a bit on my plans, but hopefully this weekend the tree will be up and decorations started.

Over the Thanksgiving Holiday I partook in small business Saturday, trying to help out the business that were in the area I was in.  While in many of these stores I was inspired by a few of their Holiday decorations.  

Here's a few more Sea-Worthy decorations that you could make at home for your 'From the Sea' Holiday Tree

Sea Urchin Snowman

How cute is this little guy!  All you need are 3 Sea Urchins, try and get them in different sizes.  You can use a hot glue gun to stack them, large to small.  The rest is up to your creativity!  You can use a sharpie for the details, or try your hand at felt.  Another cute idea would be to use pom-poms for the buttons and hat.  Use a little ribbon or yarn to make his scarf.   Then glue a ribbon on the top in a loop to make the ornament. 

 Sea Shell Angel

I just love this little angel, and she's super easy to make.  Lucky for me, I'm close to the sea and can collect a bunch of shells, however most craft stores will carry a variety of shells.  This one really lets you play with different types of shells, to see what fits best.  Glue the wings to the body first, make sure the shell 'wings' are backwards.  Then glue the shell 'head' in place.  To cover any open areas, use small beading pearls and hot glue.  Then attach a looped ribbon to the back to make your ornament.  Add sparkles and paint if you'd like her to shine! 

Bikefest Approved for 2012

Last year Ocean City hosted our first ever Bikefest at the Inlet.  Previously, various local restaurants/bars have hosted events for the week, but this was our first only Ocean City event held at the Inlet.  The weekend of attractions was held in conjunction with other area Bike rallies... needless to say there was much to do for all motorcycle fans.  Unfortunately, last year mother nature had different ideas for the weekend, although most didn't let the wet weather dampen their plans.

Our 2nd annual Bikefest is planned for September 13 - 16.  Ocean City expects up to 30,000 bike enthusiasts to grace the inlet next fall.  This past September's Bikefest offered stunt shows, custom bike builders, retailers, live musical entertainment and food.  Much of the same vendors are expected for next year, with the addition of a few more events and food options.

Here's a few images from this year's Bikefest

Adrenaline Crew Stunt Team

Adrenaline Crew Stunt Team

All Female Aerial Motorcycle Thrill Show

Oh My Hair for Diakonia

This past month I've put more of a focus on blogging about ways to give back, and give thanks.  Earlier this month I blogged on some events for a local organization, Diakonia, which helps people in need in our community (Giving Back - Diakonia).   Local hair salon, 'Oh My Hair' will be collecting donations and supplies until December 16th to provide to the guests of Diakonia.  To help, you can purchase a 'beauty bag' for $11 which will provide women with shampoo, conditioner and hair spray.  New toiletry items are also needed, such as toothpaste, toothbrushes, soap and deodorants.  These items can be dropped off at Oh My Hair and will be placed in the bags for the women.  If interested, please drop off your items by December 16th at Oh My Hair.

Thankful

It's just about here... Thanksgiving!  I know I always seem to dread the change of seasons, especially winter... believe it or not, I love Thanksgiving and look forward to it every year.  Thanksgiving is my favorite holiday of the year, there's something magical about everyone in our country being able to celebrate the same day together; to reflect and give thanks for all that we have.  

I also love Thanksgiving because the day itself hasn't been overly commercialized.  I can't stand how Holiday's have become something that they are not, and were never intended to be (given it is sad that much of the religious aspect of Thanksgiving has been stripped from the Holiday; I suppose it's up to parents to ensure that side of the day).  Unfortunately, the days surrounding Thanksgiving have gotten a little out of hand, stripping the focus of the day to upcoming sales and savings.  Nevertheless, it's still my favorite holiday. 

This year I am thankful for SO MUCH!  It's been a great year.  I feel incredibly blessed to have wonderful friends and family, my health and health of those around me.  For all those abroad, risking their lives to keep us safe, a very big thank you!  I'm sorry you can't be here this holiday to spend it with your loved ones.  Thank you to Irene for sparing our little beach town.  Thank you for a wonderful summer season that will get us through another winter.  Thankful for work when so many are without.  Thankful for allowing me to wake by the sea each day and breathe the crisp salty air.... I could go on and on. What are you thankful for?

On an ending note, no matter where you choose to celebrate, please be careful this Thanksgiving!  Thanksgiving is one of the most heavily traveled holidays and often, sadly, alcohol can be involved.  Please drive safely, and buckle up!  A word from our OCPD

Happy Thanksgiving!  Enjoy, be merry and give thanks!

Thanksgiving at the Beach - No Mess and No Stress

By now I'm sure many of you have plans for the upcoming Holiday, but if not why not celebrate Thanksgiving at the Beach?  The majority of restaurants will be open, serving traditional Thanksgiving meals... think Turkey and all the fixin's!  A bunch of local hotels are even offering specials for the weekend.

Although Thanksgiving is easily my favorite holiday, the hours of prep time, cooking and then cleaning up can be stressful and tiresome.  Dining out for the day provides the added bonus of no mess and no stress!  Plus, spending Thanksgiving at beach will give you ample time to relax and reflect on what you are thankful for.  I can't think of a better way to spend the Holiday.

Here's a list of local restaurants offering delicious Thanksgiving meals on Thursday

Seasons Restaurant at the Carousel Hotel
Seating available from 11:30 am - 6:00 pm.  Reservations are recommended.
Adults are $19.95 * Children 4 - 10 are $10.95 * 3 & under are free
View Menu
Book a Hotel Room at the Carousel

Fenwick Inn, Room and Dinner
Stay 3 nights at the Fenwick Inn for just $199 per couple plus tax.  Your reservation includes Thanksgiving Buffet for two and three $12 breakfast vouchers.
Book Package at the Fenwick Inn

Victorian Room at the Dunes Manor
Offering 4 different seating times; Noon, 2 pm, 4 pm and 6 pm.  Reservations are recommended.
Adults are $18.95 and Children are $9.95 for the Traditional meal which includes choice of appetizer, Turkey Entree, seasonal vegetables, holiday breads and choice of desert.  Additional dinner selections are available.
View Menu
Book Hotel Room at the Dunes Manor

Thanksgiving Buffet at the Princess Royale
Offering dinner through the day, with live entertainment.  Reservations are recommended.
Adults are $19.95 * Children 5 - 12 are $9.95 * Children under 5 are free with a paying adult.
The Princess is also offering a Turkey Takeout menu for $49.95, this includes a 10 lb. Turkey and fixings.
View Menu
Book Hotel Room at the Princess Royale

Captain's Table Buffet at the Marriot
Offering a traditional Thanksgiving dinner buffet from 2 pm - 8 pm.   Turkey, Ham, Fried Oysters and all the trimmings will be available.
Adults are $23.94 * Children 5 - 10 are $9.95 * Under 5 are complimentary
Reservations recommended

OC Moments

Looking for a new coffee table book?  Or perhaps the perfect gift for your Ocean-City-Loving-Friends?  Local man, Gregory Poulos has just released the book for you.  'Moments' is a collection of black and white photographs over the past 20 or so years.

The book is organized into a few different sections; boardwalk images, beach scenes, people.  I especially enjoy some of the witty names associated with a few of the images, many providing social commentary on the subject matter.   It's pretty interesting to see how Ocean City has changed... and stayed the same over the last few years.  Most notably were the buildings, and many of the restaurant names that have changed names/hands.

Take a look at a few of the images in the collection

Visit the Ocean City Store to purchase your Ocean City Moments Book today!

Lighting Up OC

It's hard to believe it's already that time of year, especially when it was 70 degrees and sunny this week, but Winterfest of Lights opens tomorrow!  This is Winterfest's 19th year lighting up the town, and boy are there alot of lights - over a million will start twinkling this week.

The 'Opening Night Celebration' will begin this Thursday at 5:30pm at Northside Park, where the majority of lights are displayed.  The Opening Night is by far the most 'electrifying' nights to visit the park.  The evening kicks off with holiday songs and dances performed by the OC Stars, our local elementary schools chorus.  Following the show, Mayor Meehan and the children will 'throw the switch.'  Imagine a completely dark park at night (except for the stage) .... and then it's just lights and lights and lights accompanied by sounds of awe from young and old alike.  As I said, it's electrifying.

Winterfest's 50 ft. lighted tree

Opening night is free to all visitors.  The park will stay open tomorrow until January 1st, so you'll have plenty of time to visit.  Sunday - Thursday it'll be open from 5:30 - 9:30 pm, and from 5:30 - 10:30 pm on Friday and Saturday nights.  Riding the Winterfest Train is just $5 for those over 12 years, and $3 for children.

Winterfest draws over 100,000 visitors each season, countless families make it an annual Holiday practice.  The event was named 'Maryland's Finest Holiday Tradition' by Maryland Life Magazie and is an ABA Top 100 Destination.  Each year Winterfest is a little different.  This year Winterfest has a few new additions, but there's been no release as to what because they want their visitors to have fun spotting them!

Although not apart of the main park, my favorite Winterfest display is the Avenue of Trees.  A large Winterfest marlin will be lighted on Thursday to greet all Ocean City visitors at the intersection of Rt. 50 and Philadelphia (there's also one at the North end of town).  Once visitors pass the large display there will be lights on every corner and an Avenue of Trees.  I just love driving through downtown while it's all lit up.  Each corner displays a different Holiday Light; I adore the starfish, marlin and mermaid.  There's also a free light display at the inlet that visitors can drive through.

Check out some pictures from last year
A few fun Winterfest Facts from last year

America Recycles Day

If you haven't already heard, today is America Recycles Day.  Since 1997, November 15 has been designated as the day to promote recycling in the United States.  Clearly, recycling is not just a one day event; today serves as a day to promote, encourage and educate our communities on the importance of recycling, in hopes that recycling will become something that's 365 days a year.

Looking for a place to drop off your recycling?  Earth911.com runs a fantastic site where you can search for recycling center's near you!  Check out their site for how you can Reduce, Reuse and Recycle!

Until recently, Ocean City ran a fantastic recycling program. Sadly it has been discontinued, but this doesn't mean there isn't a way for us to Recycle.   Here's a few ways you can help out, not only for today but throughout the year.

Gather all your plastic, paper, glass and metal and drop it off at our county's Recycling Drop off in Ocean Pines.  They take a wide assortment of items, to find out more information visit earth911.com's site for them.  The Berlin Walmart also has a huge drop off, which take most items.

Our local Humane Society collects aluminum cans, which they recycle and receive a profit that goes back to the shelter to take care of the animals.  Pretty much all aluminum can be recycled here, this includes beer cans!  I bet you didn't know the hungry kitties could benefit from your empty Natural Light Cans.  Just be sure to place your items in the proper bin when dropping off, it's importance to keep our trash out of our ecosystem and away from the local wildlife.  

Start using reusable shopping bags when on your errards, instead of accepting plastic or paper bags from the store.   Unfortunately, many drop off sites have stopped taking plastic bags.  Best to start avoiding them asap!

Old clothes or items?  Instead of tossing to the dump, consider reusing them for a different purpose or donating to a local charity.  Old clothes can be re-purposed as rags or pillow stuffing.  You can even get crafty and 'reinvent' a new garment or try your hand at a new blanket.  One of our local thrift stores, Used to Be Mine is always looking for donations.  They will take clothing, furniture, and other goods.  All donations at the store are used to help a local charity, Diakonia and are tax deductible.  Not only does this find a new home for your old treasures,  but it'll go towards helping those in need.

Many electronics need to be recycled in specially designated centers, due to their contents.  Our local Staples will take old items for you, including printer cartridges.  Often, for properly recycling these items they will reward you with store credit.   In Ocean Pines, Worcester County Household Hazardous Waste and Electronics Center will take these items and any dangerous chemicals.  Living so near to the Ocean and our Coastal Bays, it's very important to properly dispose of chemical waste, these items have an extremely harmful effect on our environment.

Get out there and Recycle!  Not just for today, but everyday!

From the Sea Holiday Tree

Out shopping this weekend I couldn't believe how many stores had Christmas decor and music out.  Maybe I'm just a late-bird, but I like to get through with the Turkey before I get out the Tree.  Last year I attempted to create a sea inspired tree, unfortunately I wasn't able to produce quite enough ornaments with just a little under 3 weeks.  This year I've decided to get in the Merry Mood and begin a few of the Christmas projects early. 

Last year, I worked on a bunch of glittered starfish and seashells.  Pretty easy to make, and wound up looking beautiful on the tree.   Making your own really give you the ability to match your homes or tree's color scheme.  Last year I went with a more natural palette, with a little pink thrown in.  I haven't decided what this year's color will be, but I'm thinking aqua and turquoise! 

There's a bunch of different ways you can make these, depending on what your desired result is. 

What you'll need:  

Seashells and Starfish (I used the sugar starfish and larger pencil Starfish)

Hot Glue Gun

Ribbon, Cord or Twine

Spray Glitter

Paint (optional) 

Glitter Paint

Glue - spray adhesive glue also works well

Loose Glitter

If you're looking to keep the starfish's natural look, the spray glitter works the best.  This is basically like a spray paint, but instead glitter in an adhesive comes out.  They come in a variety of colors.  If you can't find the color you were looking for, painting the starfish your desired color then spraying the glitter once dried works well. Glitter paint also works well for this, skipping the spray glitter step. 

If you're looking for a heavy glittered ornament (such as the image above), the best way is to coat the starfish in glue, and then sprinkle with loose glitter.  Tap to remove excess and let dry. 

For all of these, once dry add on your cord with a dot of hot glue, create a loop and glue again to the back of the ornament. 

Martha Stewart has a bunch of additional ideas this year that I can't wait to try out! 

Check out her blog for more ideas and tutorials!

How cute are these Jelly Fish! 

Get the tutorial 

Movies, Bowling and Gambling?

An unlikely mix, but very exciting news for our small town.  Worcester County Planning Commission approved preliminary ideas for a five screen movie theater and a 10 lane bowling alley to be developed next to the Casino at Ocean Downs.

I have been unsuccessful in finding additional information, besides the concept, but I think it's a pretty great idea. Our local theaters and our 1 bowling alley have seen better days, it would be great to have something new and perhaps more current with today's technical advances.   The additions to the Casino would provide entertainment to all visiting Ocean Downs; some can gamble, others can watch a movie or bowl.

Initially, traffic was a huge concern with the creation of the Casino.  I'm sure that it'll continue to be an issue with the building of a Bowling Alley and Movie Theater.   Either way, it's still pretty exciting!

Giving Back - Diakonia

With the Holidays quickly approaching, this time of year always becomes one of reflection and giving thanks for all the blessings in my life.  I'm always looking for ways to give back to others, especially those in my local community. 

A few week's ago I had the chance to help a local charity, Diakonia.  Diakonia was in need of volunteers to help prepare a small apartment for a new tenant of theirs.  It was a wonderful experience, and opened my eyes to all that Diakonia does for the community.  For more than 30 years Diakonia has been providing "Help for Today and Hope for Tomorrow."  The organization helps individuals and families in our local area by providing housing and food for those in crisis, but more than that, Diakonia provides resources so people can change and improve their lives one step at a time.  

Diakonia is run on just what is provided on state and federal levels.  As you can imagine, this makes for an extremely tight budget, they are very dependent on funding and support from the local community.  It really is wonderful charity, committed to assisting those in our area.   With the down economy,  and the slower seasonal cycle, Diakonia's services are in high demand.  This time it's our chance to give back.

The New Casino, Ocean Downs will be collecting can food items for Diakonia on November 7 - 11 and again on November 14 - 18.  Those that donate items will have a chance to win casino bucks.

The Greene Turtle North, on 116th St. will donate 10% of their revenue generated on November 16.  Be sure to head on over to the Turtle that Wednesday for dinner and/or drinks, the proceeds will go to help our neighbors. 

Next month, Lighthouse Sound will host a Breakfast with Santa on December 10th.  Breakfast will last from 7 until 11 am, and tickets are only $10.  Around a 1/3 of Diakonia's guest are under the age of 12, the breakfast allows them one of the few chances to participate in the Christmas Holiday. 

Diakonia is always in need, and appreciates any and all help. Diakonia operates a thrift store, Used to be Mine, which is always looking for donations of furniture, clothing and other goods.  Proceeds from the store go to run the organization.  Contributions of any amount are valuable to them as is a donation of your time; the organization couldn't operate without help from volunteers.  

Check our their site for ways to donate

Check out their site to volunteer

Touch the Sea

This Saturday the Delmarva Discovery Center, in nearby Pocomoke, will be hosting a wonderful learning and discovery event, Touch the Sea.  Marine biologist, Andrew Wilson will be present with his 'aquatic stars.'  He'll present a show, Under the Sea, which includes live animals at 1 pm & 3 pm.  A wide variety of aquatic stars are expected to be present this Saturday, including a puffer fish, horseshoe crab, blue crabs and even a baby shark!

Children and adults are invited to learn all about what goes on 'Under the Sea.'  Expect to walk away knowing what a mermaid's necklace is made from and if fish sleep.

Also present this Saturday will be Bernadette Gesser, local author of "Bob the Big Bad Bluefish" and the book's illustrator, Sarah Grangier.  Guests will also have the chance to examine prehistoric fossils of aquatic life, such as fish and dinosaurs courtesy of Dr. Pete Whaley.   The event will also have fish feeding, crafts, face painting and artwork on display by local artists.

Small with a Big Heart

Yesterday, I blogged on a Fundraiser for a local man recently diagnosed with cancer.  The events were held yesterday at OC Golf Club and Fager's Island, and were a great success.  I honestly don't have words to describe the outpouring of love and support shown yesterday.  I've said it before, and I'll say it again, for a community with less than 10,000 year round individuals we certainly have a huge heart.

The Golf tournament became the largest fundraising tournament Ocean City Golf and Yacht club has ever hosted.  Almost 200 people came out to play.  Walking into Fager's last night you would never know that it was a Monday night during our off season.  The place was packed with friends, family and local businesses - parking couldn't be found for blocks!  So many items were donated and available for auction.  It was great to see Mitch Scott up there at the raffle blocks doing the live auction, boosting the crowd to contribute!

There's something extremely touching to see so many familiar faces come together to support one of our own.  We really are a special place, I don't think any other community could match the support that comes out of our tiny 4.6 square miles.  To paraphrase Keenan - some faces he hasn't seen in months... other's it's been years, but to know that each person was there to help him was simply amazing.  And that really sums up our town.  Summer's get busy, sometimes life take a hold and has different paths for each of us, gaps of time can go by between seeing our friends - but if your a part of Ocean City, Ocean City will rally behind you.  We've got something special, a great big heart!

Check out The Charles Jeff Keenan Relief Fund Facebook Page for more information and additional events

Tonight: Charles Jeff Keenan Relief Fundraiser

Don't miss tonight's first fundraiser for a wonderful local, Charles Jeff Keenan, known as Keenan to many of his friends.   Born and raised in the area, Keenan is well known in the community as a reliable and trustworthy person.  This summer, Keenan was diagnosed with Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma and now requires life-saving cancer treatments.  Keenan, as well as many other in our community, is without health insurance.  As expected, the cost of the treatments he requires are very costly.


Tonight and through this winter it'll be our chance to help a area member who has always been there to lend a hand.  Today, the Ocean City Golf Club hosted a foursome golf tournament which will be followed by a party open to the public tonight at Fager's.  Proceeds will go to help offset the medical costs.  Tickets can be purchased at the door, for just $25 per person, which includes unlimited food and beer.  Entertainment will be provided by DJ Wax, whose sadly is no stranger to the disease.  A wide range of silent auction items will be available.

Tonight should be a wonderful event, be sure to come out to support the life of a great individual.   After Tournament Party starts at 5pm at Fager's Island on 60th St. and the Bay.




If you can't make it, consider making a donation - every dollar can help save his life.

Donations can be made to the following address:
The Charles Keenan Relief Fund, 10109 Pebble Ct.
 Ocean City, MD 21842

3rd Annual Shell Shocked

Don't miss this weekend's 3rd Annual Shell Shocked at Fager's Island.  

The event runs from 1 - 5 pm this Saturday and features unlimited Oysters and Evo Beers!  You'll have the chance to enjoy them raw, steamed, fried and various other special creations.  A few local chefs will be present to create some truly amazing Oyster-pieces.  I'm a huge fan of them raw with a cider mignonette or baked with cheese and a little bacon... I can't think of anything more delicious than fresh local seafood.  

If all you can eat Oyster's wasn't enough, to top off the event 5 different locally crafted Evolution Beers will be offered.  I'm hoping they'll offer their seasonal brew, Jacques Au Lantern.  

If Oyster's aren't your thing you can still enjoy the event, BBQ ribs and chicken will be available.  Live music will be provided by a local band, Opposite Directions, who will be preforming on the Deck.

Tickets are available in advance for $30 and will be held at will-call.  Tickets are also available at the door for $35.  Get your tickets today!

If you can't make it to the beach this weekend, try this great Apple-Ginger Mignonette with your favorite oysters

Apple-Ginger Mignonette
Ingredients
1/4 cup cider vinegar
2 tablespoons minced shallot
1/2 teaspoon finely grated peeled fresh ginger
1 cup finely chopped sweet apple (Fuji or Golden Delicious)
White pepper to taste

2 dozen freshly shucked oysters on the half shell

Directions
Stir together vinegar, shallot, pepper and ginger.  Set aside.  While you shuck oysters, add some of their huice to the mignonette.  Stir in apple.  Top each oyster off right before serving.