This Week at the Guild 06/09/2025

NEWS

Grateful Dave

OCAG Hosts Unforgettable Weekend of Art, Music, and Community Fun

OCAG lit up the local arts scene this past weekend with a pair of wildly successful events that brought together music and Bingo lovers, art enthusiasts, and community supporters for a celebration of creativity and connection.

On Friday evening, OCAG’s historic Victorian home was alive with the sounds of Grateful Dave, who drew an enthusiastic crowd of both longtime supporters and newcomers. They delivered a lively performance that blended classic rock energy with laid-back charm, creating the perfect soundtrack for a joyful, bustling evening of local art vendors and delicious beer donated by Toms River Brewing.

The fun carried into Sunday with an unforgettable Boozy Bingo event held at the Garden State Distillery (GSD). Guests sipped on creatively crafted cocktails while vying for an impressive array of prizes, including gift certificates to popular local businesses, like Ms. Walker’s Famous Ice Cream, Gifted on Washington, Wish Upon a Jar, Palmetto Restaurant, Ocean Organics, Silverball Pinball Museum, Luna Locks, bottle of spirits from GSD, OCAG gift certificate, a custom wood-turned bottle stopper, a Chila Columbina bag, and a 50/50 raffle.

Each winner also had the opportunity to select a piece of artwork created and donated by OCAG members, making their victory even more special. Adding to the fun was Lu-Ann Russell, a lively emcee and Bingo caller, who kept spirits high and laughter flowing. The event was equal parts social mixer and fundraiser, and it showcased OCAG’s unique ability to fuse art with community in fun and accessible ways.

Congrats to our winners!

“This weekend was a true testament to what we can accomplish when our community comes together to celebrate and support the arts,” said OCAG President Bill Pike. “Thanks to our incredible board, members, and the volunteers who put in countless hours, we were able to raise awareness of our wonderful organization and continue the restoration of our beautiful home.”

Fundraising events like these play a vital role in raising the funds—and the enthusiasm—needed to complete the work.

Congrats to our winners!

As for what’s next? OCAG promises that this is just the beginning. With a summer lineup full of art shows, classes, and creative community events, there’s no shortage of reasons to stay connected.

“Stay tuned,” Pike added with a smile. “There’s much more to come.”

OCAG Treasurer Cagney Archdeacon (L) presented 2025 Scholarship Recipient, Avery Husenica (C) with a check for $500.

OCAG Awards $500 Scholarship to Support Local Scholar Avery Husenica

On June 2, OCAG proudly awarded a $500 scholarship this year to Avery Husenica, a standout recipient in the Greater Toms River Chamber scholarship program. This scholarship reflects OCAG’s ongoing commitment to nurturing the next generation of scholars and creators in our community. With this award, OCAG is not only recognizing individual promise but also reinforcing its broader educational mission: to inspire and support young, local talent. We’re proud to support Avery and look forward to seeing where her talents take her next.

CSR Day 2025

Convergint’s CSR Day Blossoms at Ocean County Artists Guild

On June 6, Convergint employees joined OCAG volunteers in rolling up their sleeves for their annual Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Day, bringing energy, teamwork, and community spirit to the Guild. In a full-day volunteer effort, the team tackled the Guild’s outdoor landscaping—trimming overgrown hedges, clearing debris, refreshing flower beds, and sprucing up walkways—to enhance the historic site’s curb appeal and welcoming charm.

Convergint, a global systems integrator specializing in security, fire, life safety, building automation, and audio‑visual solutions, is guided by a culture of service not just to clients but to communities worldwide. Each June, offices close so colleagues can devote their workday to giving back—a tradition rooted in the company’s founding values.

“We’re deeply grateful to Convergint for dedicating their time and talents today,” said OCAG President Bill Pike. “Their hard work helps us maintain the beauty of our home—and underscores the importance of corporate citizenship in sustaining local arts.”

Thanks to Convergint’s support, the Guild’s exterior now mirrors the creativity found within its walls. The renewed landscaping not only enhances the visitor experience but also honors a partnership built on shared values of service, beauty, and community investment. As OCAG gears up for summer exhibitions and classes, its grounds now are as inviting as the creativity they house—made possible by Convergint’ s generosity.

Call for Art: Ocean County 175th Anniversary Art Contest!

The Ocean County Cultural & Heritage Commission invites artists 18 years and older to participate in a special art contest commemorating Ocean County’s 175th Anniversary. Now’s your chance to showcase your talent and celebrate our community’s incredible milestone!

THEME:

“Ocean County at 175 Years is a Great Place to Be”
Submit a two-dimensional original artwork that reflects what makes Ocean County unique, beautiful, or meaningful to you.

IMPORTANT DETAILS:
Submission deadline: October 1, 2025

One image of artwork per artist – All work must be original

PRIZES:
1st Place: $500 gift card to Blick Art Materials

2nd Place: $300 Blick gift card

3rd Place: $150 Blick gift card

Selected artworks will be exhibited as part of the county’s 175th anniversary celebration!

HOW TO ENTER:
Visit the Ocean County Cultural & Heritage Commission’s website for full submission guidelines, entry form, and drop-off information: https://co.ocean.nj.us/frmRegContent.aspx?ID=ab0f3ccd-8127-48e5-b5bf-6343c6999094

Let’s celebrate 175 years of history, community, and creativity—submit your artwork today!

Exciting Partnership Announcement!

We’re thrilled to share that JDLive Presents will soon be teaming up with the OCAG to bring an exciting new fusion of live music and art exhibitions to our community! In the near future, visitors can look forward to intimate “Unplugged Acoustic Performances” featuring both beloved local artists and talented musicians from surrounding areas. This collaboration is all about creating a welcoming, inclusive space where creativity can thrive—offering a level playing field for artists of all kinds to share their work, connect with new audiences, and be part of something inspiring.

Stay tuned for event announcements—you won’t want to miss the powerful blend of live music and visual art coming soon to the Guild!