The OCNJ Local

This week, Dom and Drew sit down with Phil Bellucci, the Executive Director of the Humane Society of Ocean City. Phil shares the incredible history of the shelter, from its founding by high school students in 1964 to the comprehensive organization it is today, offering adoption services, a full veterinary hospital, and animal control for the city. Learn about the diverse animals they've rescued, the importance of their no-kill mission, and how dedicated volunteers and staff provide a loving environment for every animal. Plus, find out how you can get involved in upcoming events like the Howl-O-Ween Dog Parade and the annual Thanksgiving Turkey Trot at their website https://hsocnj.com/

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In this episode of the OCNJ Local podcast, hosts Dominick Dougherty and Drew Fasy welcome Taylor Pontari, a talented young singer from Ocean City. Taylor shares her journey from singing the national anthem at local events to performing at iconic venues like Fenway Park and Lincoln Financial Field. For Taylor, singing the national anthem is a way of honoring veterans and America through her music.

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Summary

In this episode of the OCNJ Local podcast, hosts Dominick Dougherty and Drew Fasy welcome coaches Kevin Smith and Sean Matthews from the Ocean City football program. They discuss the recent coaching transition, the upcoming Battle of the Beach event, and the team's preparations for the new season. The coaches share insights on player development, team dynamics, and the importance of community engagement in high school sports.

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In this episode, Local Guys Drew Fasy and Dominick Dougherty discuss the growing controversy of canopies on the beach this summer. Dive into what other beach towns are doing and what measures Ocean City has in place.

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In the second part of our in-depth examination of the proposed alternative to the hotel at the site of the former Wonderland Pier, Wonderland Commons, we address the key question: How will parking and traffic be addressed in this tight Ocean City neighborhood? What does financial viability truly look like for a major new development on the boardwalk? Join us as we continue the candid conversation about the challenges and opportunities facing Ocean City's future.

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In this special two-part series, hosts Dominick Dougherty and Drew Fasy sit down with Bill Merritt and Dan Gilman from Ocean City 2050 to discuss their alternative vision for the former Wonderland Pier site.

In Part 1, we dive into the origins and mission of Ocean City 2050, an organization dedicated to Ocean City's long-term future. Guests clarify a common misconception: they aren't telling the landowner what to do, but rather offering a public alternative for consideration during potential zoning changes. Dan Gilman, with decades of experience in public-private partnerships on Wall Street, shares his insights on typical large-scale development processes and how they can apply to Ocean City. Bill Merritt then provides a comprehensive overview of Ocean City 2050's proposed mixed-use concept, designed to enhance the boardwalk experience for all ages. We examine the four key components of their plan: a smaller, economically viable amusement park, a digital entertainment center, a lodging facility, and public common areas. Tune in to understand how this alternative proposal aims to foster a productive community dialogue and lead to a compromise that benefits Ocean City for generations to come.

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Join the Local Guys Dom and Drew as they chat with Angelina, a falconer from East Coast Falcons, and her impressive, 11-year-old Eurasian Eagle Owl, Ozzy. Learn all about how Ozzy and his feathered friends keep Ocean City's boardwalk blissfully free of pesky seagulls.

Angelina shares insights into the fascinating world of falconry, from the intense training (it's called "manning"!) that helps these majestic birds get used to human presence and crowds, to their daily routines patrolling the boardwalk. Discover how Ozzy, despite his grumpy morning mood and impressive talons, is a master at keeping seagulls at bay, especially during those bustling summer nights.

You'll also be surprised to hear how the falcons and owls are not only protecting your french fries but also improving the health and population of the seagulls themselves! It's a win-win for everyone in America's Greatest Family Resort.

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In this episode of the OCNJ Local, Local Guys, Dom and Drew sit down with Chief of Operations of the Ocean City Beach Patrol, Chief Becker, for an in-depth conversation about what it takes to protect Ocean City’s seven-mile stretch of coastline. You don't want to miss Chief Becker's top safety message for families.

Whether you’re a local, a visitor, or just a fan of Ocean City, this episode gives you a deeper appreciation for the people who keep our beaches safe. 🌊🚩

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Summer is heating up in America’s Greatest Family Resort! In this episode, local guys Dom and Drew dive into all the exciting events happening around Ocean City, NJ, this June. Whether you're visiting for the weekend or kicking off your summer early, there’s no shortage of things to do.

Tune in for your inside scoop on June in Ocean City—and get ready to make the most of this exciting “shoulder season” at the shore!

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In this episode of OCNJ Local, local guys Drew and Dom delve into the heart of Ocean City's school community with Parent Teacher Association (PTA) President Katie Grimm. Katie discusses the exciting work the PTA is doing to support students across Ocean City’s K-8 schools.

Whether you're a current PTA member, a parent curious about getting involved, or just love learning what’s happening in America’s Greatest Family resort, this episode is for you.

🎧 Tune in, share, and support your local schools!

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