History

A Brief History Of The OCBA

By Roger Lees

More than a quarter century ago, in March 1980, a handful of local business owners gathered at the Howard Johnson’s Lodge in Toms River to form a novel business association. This small group included Victor Roccki, Sr. of E.F. Hutton; accountant Bruce Bowe of Jump, Bowe and Associates and real-estate appraiser Marie Godwin of Godwin Appraisals.

Patterned after a model used by the Monmouth County Business Association, the Ocean County Business Association would differ from local, non-business service organizations in that its sole purpose would be to conduct and refer business within the group. In addition, OCBA’s founders wanted the organization to be comprised of qualified business people and have category exclusivity~that is, only one person from each business category could join.

OCBA was a success from the start. Dave Connolly, a local lawyer, came to the first meeting, joining Roccki, Bowe, Godwin and several others. From this nucleus, the organization grew in both size and reputation.

For more than 25 years, the Ocean County Business Association has gathered the finest business owners in our community to create and refer business. It has moved into this century as vigorous and motivated as it was when those few founding fathers (and mother) met at Howard Johnson’s more than a quarter century ago.

Ocean County Business Association has been a significant part of the growth I have enjoyed all these years. As new products were being developed in my field and decisions to take the risks to commit and invest in the new technology presented themselves, it was helpful to get first hand advice from so many business professionals. Through priceless advice and experienced opinions, I was able to make the right choice with the help of OCBA members.
Pete Ferro
Pete FerroAmeritel Communications Corporation
If you are looking for the best than look no further than the Ocean County Business Association(OCBA). I’ve been a member for only a few short years but I can already say I’ve learned so much from all of the different business members in this association. These are dedicated professionals that will not only do the job right but will go above and beyond. Bottom line, whatever your needs are( legal advise, car work, new addition, travel, etc) you won’t be disappointed if you choose any member of the OCBA.
Jeff Koerner
Jeff KoernerOzane Termite and Pest Control
There is nothing like OCBA. Every member represents the best in their respective category. Many associates are long time members. I know - having participated for over 30 years and counting. Thats how good this organization is.
John Kemmerer
John KemmererLafayette General Title Agency
As a long standing member of Ocean County Business Association, I can personally attest that we are the best in business. Great people, great businesses and a excellent way of getting referrals for new and existing businesses in the Ocean County area
Kevin BradshawAffordable Senior Home Care
Ocean County Business Association has been a significant part of the growth I have enjoyed all these years. As new products were being developed in my field and decisions to take the risks to commit and invest in the new technology presented themselves, it was helpful to get first hand advice from so many business professionals. Through priceless advice and experienced opinions, I was able to make the right choice with the help of OCBA members.
Pete Ferro
Pete FerroAmeritel Communications Corporation
If you are looking for the best than look no further than the Ocean County Business Association(OCBA). I’ve been a member for only a few short years but I can already say I’ve learned so much from all of the different business members in this association. These are dedicated professionals that will not only do the job right but will go above and beyond. Bottom line, whatever your needs are( legal advise, car work, new addition, travel, etc) you won’t be disappointed if you choose any member of the OCBA.
Jeff Koerner
Jeff KoernerOzane Termite and Pest Control
There is nothing like OCBA. Every member represents the best in their respective category. Many associates are long time members. I know - having participated for over 30 years and counting. Thats how good this organization is.
John Kemmerer
John KemmererLafayette General Title Agency
As a long standing member of Ocean County Business Association, I can personally attest that we are the best in business. Great people, great businesses and a excellent way of getting referrals for new and existing businesses in the Ocean County area
Kevin BradshawAffordable Senior Home Care