The Ocean County Business Association held its 2024 holiday party on December 6 at the historic Gould Mansion on the Georgian Court University campus in Lakewood. This favorite OCBA venue offered an elegant and festive setting for the evening’s festivities, which included a lively DJ, a delicious buffet-style dinner, and an open bar.
We extend our gratitude to OCBA member Ken Karmichael, who represents Georgian Court University, for once again helping us secure this special location. Instead of our usual networking lunch meeting, attendees were delighted to make the trip and embrace the holiday spirit in such a grand environment.
A Brief History of the Gould Mansion
Constructed in 1896 for George Jay Gould—son of renowned railroad magnate Jay Gould—the mansion was designed by architect Bruce Price. It combined elements of French and English architectural influences and served as an opulent showplace during the Gilded Age. The estate’s rooms, lavishly appointed with marble, diverse woods, and ornate murals, originally catered to George and Edith Gould’s penchant for hosting elaborate gatherings.
Over the years, Georgian Court evolved from a private estate into a center of education when it was acquired by the Sisters of Mercy in the 1920s and renamed Georgian Court College. Today, as Georgian Court University, it retains its historic splendor and is recognized as a National Historic Landmark. The mansion and its beautifully maintained gardens now serve as a stunning backdrop for public events, private functions, and community gatherings like ours.
A Perfect Holiday Atmosphere
The Gould Mansion takes on an even more magical quality when dressed for the holidays. During the OCBA party, poinsettias lined the grand staircase, a towering Christmas tree shimmered with silver tinsel, and the tables were impeccably set to reflect the festive season. With the entire mansion at our disposal, guests were encouraged to explore its grand halls and decorated rooms, immersing themselves in the warmth and charm of this elegant historic home.
Musical Entertainment & Holiday Cheer
After dinner, attendees enjoyed a live musical performance by OCBA President Paul Losseff and Claire Koerner, wife of long-time member Jeff Koerner. Paul’s guitar accompaniment, paired with Claire’s vocals, brought classics like “Blackbird” and traditional Christmas carols to life.
The highlight of the set was a customized version of “The 12 Days of Christmas,” featuring lyrics tailored to represent the OCBA members and their businesses. Audience participation—mixed with laughter and good-natured attempts to keep up with the new words—truly captured the community spirit of the evening.
Supporting CAREing For Children & Local Families
In the spirit of giving, attendees were encouraged to bring gifts to be raffled off at the end of the night. Members who donated new toys for CAREing For Children, an OCBA-founded 501(c)(3) organization, earned additional raffle tickets. At the evening’s close, Jen Lorentzen of SERVPRO graciously collected these toys to deliver to Barbara Farley of Chap Construction, who coordinated distributing them with other donated food and necessities to local charities, including the Salvation Army and community food pantries.
CAREing For Children’s mission ensures that one hundred percent of donations directly benefit children and families in need throughout Ocean County. The items gathered at our holiday party, combined with the resources raised at the 8th Annual Marty Aronow Golf Classic earlier in the fall, contributed to a robust collection of gifts and supplies. These will brighten the holidays for those who could use an extra helping hand this season.
Happy Holidays from the OCBA
Below is a gallery of images that capture the evening’s celebrations. We will follow up with more information to showcase the generous collection of food and gifts now being distributed to families in need. We thank all the members who donated their time, resources, and goodwill to make this holiday party a memorable and meaningful event. May your holidays be filled with joy, peace, and the spirit of giving!
Click on a thumbnail below to view the larger picture.
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