By Steffen Klenk
Since opening its doors in 1923, the Flanders Hotel in Ocean City has been considered the “Jewel of the Southern New Jersey Shore.” The iconic oceanfront hotel welcomes more than 100,000 visitors each year as overnight, wedding and convention guests.
Walking through the lobby can feel like a trip back in time as you explore the many features the exciting property has to offer. From salon and spa amenities, artisan and handcrafted items at the Shoppes, to the 20,000-square-foot banquet center and world-class dining at Club 1923, it is no wonder why generations keep coming back.
Over the past 18 years, the Flanders has undergone one of the most storied transformations in Ocean City history. Amid with a unique set of circumstances – a property left in financial trouble and disrepair from previous ownership, Pete Voudouris was named president of the Flanders Condominium Association in 2005.
Tasked with turning the property around, Voudouris worked tirelessly to get the hotel out of debt by securing financing and buying back elements of the building that had been sold off to raise money, including the front desk and elevators, and returning the property to a glory that had not been seen in decades.
In addition to the completion of five exquisite penthouses, sections of the banquet facility were converted into seven upscale condominiums. On Nov. 20, 2009, the Flanders was placed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Pete’s wife, Arlene, was an integral part of the Flanders’ survival and revival.
“We never imagined that we would ever be running a hotel in our life,” Arlene explained. “When things happen, you have to pay attention and work hard; if you follow the right path and put your nose to the grindstone, things usually work out.”
Last week, state and local leaders gathered at the Flanders to help kick off the hotel’s 100th anniversary celebration. From proms to weddings, special events and occasions, officials in attendance recalled some of their memories of times spent at the landmark property.
“My wedding was here, my family reunion was here, my mom used to work here,” said Assemblyman Antwan McClellan of Ocean City.
“This is a landmark; it’s an anchor on the Boardwalk and in Ocean City,” said Ocean City Mayor Jay Gillian, who praised the staff for their tireless efforts. “This is a place that keeps on growing, which is a testament to the ownership.”
On Saturday, Nov. 18, to celebrate 100 years of memories and tradition, the Flanders Hotel will host a Centennial Gala. The scene will include antique cars lining the entrance at 11th Street. On their arrival, doormen will be stationed at the entrance.
Butlers will serve delectable hors d’oeuvres to tantalize the senses, and carving stations will be serving up mouth-watering cuts of meat. In addition, a raw bar will serve an array of fresh seafood, and refreshing beverages will be available.
Guests will be invited to dance to the sounds of the Ocean City Pops, led by an exceptionally talented group of musicians ready to provide the ultimate soundtrack to a perfect evening. The gala will feature the graceful melodies of Stephanie Sussmeier on the harp as guests step into the second-floor ballrooms.
Pete Voudouris said the centennial celebration will be one of a kind.
“This is going to be something that Ocean City has never seen,” he said. “It’s going to create memories for generations to come as the Flanders begins its next hundred years.”
As of last week, more than 300 tickets had been sold for the gala. While tickets are available, the gala is guaranteed to sell out.
The cost is $150 per person. To learn more or to purchase tickets, see www.theflandershotel.com/celebrate100.
Steffen Klenk is a photographer and multimedia journalist who enjoys capturing the eclectic moments of shore life. You may contact Steffen at shorelocalsteffen@gmail.com.
