March 2026
OPENING
A meeting of the Ocean Grove Community Association (OGCA) was held on Saturday, March 28, 2026 in the Camp Meeting Community Room, 28 Pilgrim Pathway, Ocean Grove. The meeting was called to order by OGCA President Joyce Klein at 10:05 am. The Pledge of Allegiance was followed by recognition of special guests and announcements.
- Joyce reminded everyone to renew their 2026 OGCA memberships, noting that dues will be increasing to $25 as of July 1st.
- She also advised everyone that the OGCA website has an extensive calendar that lists almost every upcoming event in Ocean Grove – The OGCA Calendar
SPECIAL TRIBUTE
Barbara Burns gave a lovely tribute to Harriet Bernstein and Luisa Paster who will be leaving ocean Grove later this Spring. She spoke of their years of volunteerism in Ocean Grove, their love of Ocean Grove, and the many other ways in which they helped make Ocean Grove a better community. Both Harriet and Luisa gave very heartfelt responses to the tribute.
TWO GUEST SPEAKERS
Jessie Thompson, Executive Director of the Ocean Grove Chamber of Commerce, spoke in great detail about the Chamber and its goals. She provided information on upcoming events and the Chamber’s efforts to improve the appearance of Main Street. She also requested help from OG residents to support this effort, including reaching out to Neptune Township to inform them of what needs to be done. She emphasized the importance of supporting our local businesses. Jessie also noted that there will soon be more to come on 250 Anniversary events. Questions followed..
Kelly Ryan, the new owner of Nagles Apothecary Cafe, first provided background information on her own career in the culinary arts. The she spoke in great detail on the extensive effort that is being taken to restore Nagles to its original state after being closed for more than 7 years. Many of Nagle’s former employees will be returning. Its much anticipated reopening is set for early May. Questions followed..
BUSINESS MEETING
Committee Reports
- Membership Committee chair Robert Ignato spoke at length about the OGCA sponsored Community Block Party set for August 30 from 4 to 8 pm on the grounds of Seaton Ocean Grove (the newly owned Ocean Grove assisted care facility on Stockton Avenue.) There will be live music, games, food trucks and other activities. Admission will be free. His committee is hard at work planning this exciting event. A call for volunteers will go out nearer to the date of the event.
Neptune School Board Task Force
Joyce Klein, task force member, reported on the efforts of the Task Force and the status of items under review for the 2026 School Budget. Much needs to be done by the school board in looking at utilization of buildings and staffing in a climate of declining enrollment — with a view toward reducing costs, increasing educational performance of its students, and promoting greater affordability for all Neptune residents. Questions followed..
CLOSING
The meeting adjourned at 11:44 am. Respectfully submitted by Theresa Checki, Secretary of the OGCA.