By MADDY VITALE
An Ocean City mother of five whose hope and drive to bring young bicyclists together in a healthy, safe way, first organized a successful event showcasing kids’ two-wheel talents.
Now, two months later, Sarah Gaddy is joining with the Ocean City Tabernacle. At first, the goal when she and Tabernacle officials met and held a public meeting for bicyclists and their families back in June, was to create a bike zone where kids could ride in a safe environment.
That proposal is in its early planning stages.
But there is another event that both Gaddy and Tabernacle officials emphasized will be a great outlet for kids ages 11-16 that is planned at the Youth Center at the Tabernacle.
This Wednesday, the Tabernacle will host a 3-on-3 basketball tournament for Ocean City youth. Registration is at 6:30 p.m. In addition to some friendly competition, there will be pizza, prizes and other giveaways and an inspirational speaker.
Sarah Gaddy and her son, C.J., hope the community is receptive to a bike zone. (Photo courtesy of Sarah Gaddy)
Gaddy, Ocean City Tabernacle Pastor Jay Reimer and Youth Minister Jonathan Gonzalez discussed ideas for events that could bring the bicyclists and other youth together for an enjoyable event. That is when they came up with the basketball tournament.
“We have been working for weeks on plans for a bike zone,” Gaddy said. "But this event will be great to bring the kids together in an event that doesn't just involve bikes."
Gonzalez echoed Gaddy's sentiments and added that for many years the Tabernacle Youth Center “has served as a place where young people are impacted through the various events, youth retreats, and our Son Club after school program.”
“My goal and heart’s desire is to reach our local bicyclists and youth who are looking for an outlet that translates into genuine relationships, fun and competitive activity, and relevant messages that would challenge them to be who God created them be,” he said.
Ocean City Tabernacle Youth Minister Jonathan Gonzalez gives a sermon in June of 2020.
Gonzalez noted that there have been several conversations about bringing a bike zone to the Tabernacle grounds. But, as Gaddy noted, it is still in the infancy stages.
The basketball tournament was his idea.
“All the kids wanted to do when they came for the June meeting was play games. After the meeting, I realized that the kids needed an outlet,” Gonzalez said. “While we are getting the bike zone off the runway, I spoke with Sarah about other activities.”
He explained the Tabernacle's plan for additional activities.
“I will open up the Youth Center for competitive activity and games and food while we are in the midst of planning and having conversations in regards to the bike zone," he said. "All these young people are looking for is a space for activities with people who they could relate to. A bike setting is good, but what we need to do is create an outlet for them.”
A bike zone is in the early planning stages on the Tabernacle grounds.
Back in May, Gaddy, along with the help of the city and the Police Department, organized a bike event to showcase the kids.
They even received awards for best tricks, longest wheelies, etc. It was in response to instances by predominantly out-of-town kids congregating and causing disturbances around town and on the Boardwalk.
Police issued a few summonses. However, Gaddy said she does not believe any of the local kids have received any -- at least not recently.
While hosting the May 12 event, involving the police was an effective way to bring kids and law enforcement together in a positive way, Gaddy said.
Now, they are ready for the next step.
“Working with the Tabernacle is great because the kids could relate to youth mentors. They will see religious leaders finding the good in them,” Gaddy said, adding that some of the kids come from difficult situations at home.
Gaddy added, “We are welcoming the children in this town who aren’t always welcomed places. We want anybody and anyone who wants to come to have a good time. It is OK to be themselves.”
Flyer courtesy of the Ocean City Tabernacle.
