The OCNJ Local

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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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. 🌊🚩 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to this edition of Sunday Shout-Outs on The OCNJ Local! In this weekly series, hosts Dominick Dougherty and Drew Fasy shine a spotlight on the people, teams, and moments that make Ocean City special — all in a quick, feel-good Sunday listen. Tune in, feel the community pride, and join us every Sunday as we celebrate the best of America’s Greatest Family Resort — one shout-out at a time. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to this edition of Sunday Shout-Outs on The OCNJ Local! In this weekly series, hosts Dominick Dougherty and Drew Fasy shine a spotlight on the people, teams, and moments that make Ocean City special — all in a quick, feel-good Sunday listen. Tune in, feel the community pride, and join us every Sunday as we celebrate the best of America’s Greatest Family Resort — one shout-out at a time. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to a special Memorial Day Weekend edition of The OCNJ Local! Local Guys, Dominick Dougherty and Drew Fasy, are fired up for the first official weekend of summer in America’s Greatest Family Resort. Dom and Drew preview all the action happening in Ocean City—from the quirky Business Person’s Plunge to the meaningful Memorial Beach Challenge honoring Thirty-One Heroes. They share details on the OCYA Memorial Day ceremony, the city’s official remembrance service at Veterans Memorial Park, and the National Moment of Remembrance. Along the way, they reflect on the true meaning of Memorial Day and offer reminders to visitors and locals alike: be patient, be kind, drive carefully, and enjoy everything our island has to offer. Whether you're heading to the beach or grabbing your first boardwalk slice of the season, this episode sets the tone for a fun, safe, and meaningful start to summer. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this milestone 50th episode of The OCNJ Local, hosts Dominick Dougherty and Drew Fasy dive into one of the most talked-about pieces of land in Ocean City — the lot between 16th and 17th on Haven Avenue. Once a $9 million opportunity, the city now owns the property to the tune of nearly $30 million after a complicated saga of petitions, eminent domain, and court rulings. Dom and Drew break down the tangled history behind the city’s purchase, explore the recent $1 million proposal for curbs, sidewalks, and sod, and ask the big question: What’s the long-term vision for this space? This episode is packed with insight, opinion, and some real talk about lessons learned and where we go from here. Plus, a call to action: the After Prom Committee still needs volunteers! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to this edition of Sunday Shout-Outs on The OCNJ Local! In this weekly series, hosts Dominick Dougherty and Drew Fasy shine a spotlight on the people, teams, and moments that make Ocean City special — all in a quick, feel-good Sunday listen. Tune in, feel the community pride, and join us every Sunday as we celebrate the best of America’s Greatest Family Resort — one shout-out at a time. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of The OCNJ Local, we’re diving into everything happening at OC Waterpark with General Manager Christine Palma. Christine shares the exciting updates and events planned for this summer. From newly themed attractions and foam parties to water safety initiatives and even a bathing suit drive, Christine walks us through how the park is evolving as both a destination and a community partner. Whether you're a local, a weekly renter, or just a fan of lazy rivers, there's something for everyone at the water park. Plus, don't miss the behind-the-scenes scoop on how OC Waterpark is tied to The Goonies. Tune in and get ready for a fun and meaningful look at one of OCNJ’s favorite family spots! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to this edition of Sunday Shout-Outs on The OCNJ Local! In this weekly series, hosts Dominick Dougherty and Drew Fasy shine a spotlight on the people, teams, and moments that make Ocean City special — all in a quick, feel-good Sunday listen. Tune in, feel the community pride, and join us every Sunday as we celebrate the best of America’s Greatest Family Resort — one shout-out at a time. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this special episode of The OCNJ Local, Dom and Drew are joined by Brian Hartley, Vice President of Playland Castaway Cove, to talk all things amusement on the Ocean City Boardwalk. From his humble start as a 14-year-old ride operator to overseeing one of the most iconic attractions in town, Brian shares his 34-year journey, behind-the-scenes insights, and what’s next for the park. Whether you're a local or planning a visit, this is your insider look at how one of the Jersey Shore’s top destinations is preparing for another unforgettable summer. 🎟️ Don’t forget: Half-price tickets are on sale now through April 27th at OceanCityFun.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this spirited episode of The OCNJ Local, Dom and Drew dive into one of Ocean City’s quirkiest traditions: the 38th annual Doodah Parade. From basset hounds in costume to local legends like the Underdog Lady and the Pittman Hobo Band, this one-of-a-kind event brings joy, community spirit, and plenty of wagging tails to Asbury Avenue. Dom also gets candid about the rising negativity on social media surrounding the proposed Icona hotel at the former Wonderland Pier site. Community, candor, and comedy—this episode has it all. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to this edition of Sunday Shout-Outs on The OCNJ Local! In this weekly series, hosts Dominick Dougherty and Drew Fasy shine a spotlight on the people, teams, and moments that make Ocean City special — all in a quick, feel-good Sunday listen. Tune in, feel the community pride, and join us every Sunday as we celebrate the best of America’s Greatest Family Resort — one shout-out at a time. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of The OCNJ Local, hosts Dominick Dougherty and Drew Fasy uncover one of Ocean City’s best-kept secrets—the Crookhorn Creek Nature Trail. Tucked away at the west end of 51st Street, this stretch of preserved wetlands has a rich history as a former rail line. It is now being revitalized into a peaceful nature trail for walkers, birders, and bike riders alike. They discuss the trail’s past, the city's cleanup efforts, and the new plans. With deer, foxes, turtles, and incredible sunset views, this episode offers a deep dive into what makes this area a unique and much-needed slice of nature in America’s Greatest Family Resort. Whether you're a longtime local or just visiting, tune in to learn how to find this hidden gem and why it might be your new favorite spot for a quiet escape. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices