STAFFORD – The Southern Ocean Chamber of Commerce celebrated a major milestone with the grand opening of its new headquarters at 703 Mill Creek Road in Manahawkin.
The ribbon-cutting ceremony, attended by roughly 100 guests, including business leaders, government officials, and community members, marked a new chapter for the 110-year-old organization.
“This is a great day for Southern Ocean County,” said Assemblyman Brian Rumpf (R-9), who presented a New Jersey state citation on behalf of the Ninth Legislative District delegation. “What the Chamber does for this community is incredible, and that’s evidenced by everyone here today.”
A Strategic Move For Growth
The Chamber’s decision to relocate to the mainland reflects its focus on the growing business community in the region. Chamber President Jerry Thompson emphasized the strategic importance of the move.
“The growth of our business community is happening here on the mainland,” Thompson explained. “We’re committed to being a resource for workforce development and helping businesses thrive.”
The Chamber represents businesses across Lacey, Barnegat, Stafford, Eagleswood, Tuckerton, Little Egg Harbor, and Long Beach Island. With over 500 members, it plays a crucial role in fostering economic development and tourism in the area.
Thompson shared the Chamber’s plans for next year, with a kickoff meeting in January that will include addressing the State of the Chamber and State of the Community event. New strategic initiatives will also be unveiled at the first 2025 meeting to be held at the LBI National Golf & Resort.
Southern Ocean Chamber of Commerce President Jerry Thompson cuts the ribbon for the organization’s new Manahawkin headquarters. (Photo by Stephanie Faughnan)
“Some of the newer people that are bringing in larger businesses are also looking to get more involved in the Chamber,” said Thompson. “We have some interest from a few, so we’re working on that to expand our Chamber board.”
Current leaders of the Southern Ocean County Chamber of Commerce includes Thompson, of the VanDyk Group; Elizabeth Giglio, First Vice President Barlow Buick GMC; Carol Holmes, Second Vice President, Health Village Imaging; Michele Cuff, Treasurer, (SOCA); Lori Pepenella, Secretary, (SOCA); Laura Benson Berry, Sahradnik, Kotzas & Benson; Michele Collins-Davies, Stockton University; Marie Daley, Beasley Media Group; Tanek Hood, Reynolds Landscaping; Michele Morrison, Southern Ocean Medical Center, HMH; Danielle Roselli, Manasquan Bank; and Christina Ulinski Ping, Residence at Stafford.
Local Support And Collaboration
The ribbon-cutting event also featured remarks from local officials, including Stafford Councilman Steve Esposito and Lacey Deputy Mayor Peter Curatolo, who presented a proclamation on behalf of the Ocean County Board of Commissioners.
Esposito said that the local municipality’s governing body was proud to have the Chamber set up headquarters within Manahawkin. He added that they all looked forward to businesses striving, especially in Stafford.
Ocean County Commissioner Frank Sadeghi serves as the liaison to the South Ocean Chamber. Curatolo made it clear that he did not speak on behalf of the commissioners but was asked to present the proclamation.
Lacey Committeeman Peter Curatolo reads a proclamation. To his right is Assemblyman Brian Rumpf, Stafford Councilman Steve Esposito, and Chamber President Jerry Thompson. (Photo by Stephanie Faughnan)
“Ocean County welcomes the Southern Ocean Chamber of Commerce to Manahawkin,” read Curatolo. “Wishing you all the best as you open your doors to your new location to enrich the quality of life for the citizens and guests of Ocean County through the promotion of business and tourism in the Long Beach Island region, with gratitude for your dedication to growth in our county.”
In his role as Lacey’s deputy mayor, Curatolo volunteered his insights considering the Chamber’s involvement throughout the county.
“I’ve seen the chamber in action advocate for their businesses as deputy mayor. They have membership in Lacey Township, and they are rock solid,” said Curatolo. “I’m glad to work with these good folks on the Ocean County Board of Tourism and Business Development.”
The Southern Ocean Chamber Association
Alongside its core mission, the Southern Ocean Chamber of Commerce also supports local residents and businesses through its 501(c)(3) affiliate, the Southern Ocean Chamber Association (SOCA). Founded to support educational and community initiatives, SOCA has become an integral part of the Chamber’s broader efforts.
Lori Pepenella, President of SOCA, highlighted the Association’s dedication to the community, particularly through its scholarship program. Every year, SOCA awards scholarships to high school seniors at Southern Regional, Pinelands Regional, and Barnegat High School to help them further their education and enter the local workforce.
Chamber President Jerry Thompson poses with Lori Pepenella, President of SOCA. (Photo by Stephanie Faughnan)
“We’re dedicated to meeting the needs of our community,” Pepenella said. “Whether it’s through scholarships, resiliency programs, or workforce development, SOCA is focused on making a lasting impact.”
In addition to scholarships, SOCA works closely with local school districts to create business-related programming that prepares students for careers in the region’s growing industries. By fostering these connections, the Chamber and its Association ensure that the next generation of leaders is ready to contribute to the local economy.
A Century Of Adaptation
As the Southern Ocean Chamber of Commerce embarks on its 111th year, its mission remains focused on adapting to the evolving needs of the business community. “When you’re talking about over a century of service, adaptation is key,” Pepenella noted. “We’re here to ensure continuity and connection for our businesses and community.”
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