Friday Stuff

Nearly 200 people gathered at The View Restaurant at Eagle Ridge Golf Club in Lakewood last night for the 46th Annual Toms River-Ocean County Chamber of Commerce Gala. The event serves as the installation of new officers on the Board of Directors while also honoring outstanding individuals and organizations for their contributions to the area.

The Distinguished Citizen of the Year is retired Assignment Judge of the Ocean County Superior Court Eugene Serpentelli. The longtime Brick resident delivered an acceptance speech that poked fun at his alleged old age as he was forced to retire from the bench nearly two years ago when he reached the age of 70. He is currently a partner in Benchmark Resolution Services which provides mediation, arbitration and case management services to members of the Bar and public. Gene also spoke about citizenship and its importance and the eloquence of his words made you quickly understand why he was held is such high regard as a judge by fellow attorneys as well as others in his courtroom.

The Presbyterian Church of Toms River was honored as this year’s Organization of the Year and accepting on their behalf was Rev. Dr. David Joynt. More than just a church they have contributed much to the community including the building of the House of Hope, a project that saw them donate the land, finance the construction costs and pay the mortgage. The facility provides expertise and guidance to individuals navigating the social service network. Dr. Joynt spoke about the great team he has at the church and its active membership which supports many causes and takes pride in its place in the community.

As you have no doubt heard previously last night also saw me pass to gavel to Pat Blake and officially end my tenure as Chairman of the Toms River-Ocean County Chamber of Commerce. I was the 54th person to hold this position, joining a list that includes the late Joe Citta, Harvey York, Bob Novy and more recently Gary Lotano, Matt Smith, Bob Shea, Mike Ritacco and Jim DeAngelis. Not a bad group to be associated with