March 26, 2025
South Amboy Community Event
A Resounding Success
Pat Craddick-Irwin and John Irwin
Mayor Fred A. Henry
Dr. Jorge Gonzalez-Gomez
SOUTH AMBOY, NJ – On Saturday, March 22nd, the South Amboy Community Engagement and Business Networking Event brought together elected officials, local businesses, nonprofits, and residents in an inspiring showcase of collaboration and community spirit at Station Bay.
The event began with a warm welcome from Pat Craddick-Irwin, event organizer and President of POP Social Enterprise, LLC, setting the stage for an afternoon of meaningful connections. Councilman Anthony Conrad introduced key elected officials and community leaders, including Mayor Fred Henry, Council President Michael (Mickey) Gross, Councilwoman Zusette Dato, Board of Education Superintendent Dr. Frederick Williams, and South Amboy Business Association President Dr. Jorge Gonzalez-Gomez.
The Mayor and Community Leaders
Mayor Fred Henry captivated the audience with personal reflections on his upbringing in South Amboy and provided exciting updates on the city’s ongoing developments, including the highly anticipated new ferry terminal, which is expected to enhance accessibility and stimulate economic growth in the region. Council President Michael (Mickey) Gross also shared updates on the city's ongoing initiatives with enthusiasm. Read more about Mayor Henry's leadership here.
Business leaders were eager to engage, with Dr. Jorge Gonzalez-Gomez providing key insights into South Amboy’s business landscape and planning initiatives. Tracey Wilkinson, Station Bay Manager, shared progress on The Pearl, a new development next to Station Bay, which promises to further elevate the area.
Nonprofits & Local Businesses Shine
The event also highlighted the work of several nonprofit organizations, including the American Legion Post #62 (Joe Szaro), Friends of South Amboy (Mark Herdman), The YMCA (Zusette Dato and Alexis Korsak), and the Latin Knightz Motorcycle Association (Anthony Bermudez). Their presentations underscored the community’s dedication to social impact and volunteerism.
Amboy Bank played a crucial role in supporting local businesses and entrepreneurs, with Jennifer Fletcher, VP of Business Development, and Luc D’Andrea sharing insights on banking services tailored to small businesses.
Business Spotlight
The Small Business Spotlight was a key highlight, featuring businesses such as Kimber Dry Cleaners (Lydia Kim and Irene Cho), Madura Pharmacy (Ann Stempinski and Ishmeet Chand), Spiritual Alignment (Vanessa Bermudez), and ABC World Vacations (Shanelle Martinez). These businesses showcased their products and services, highlighted special promotions, and offered exclusive discounts to Station Bay residents.
In total, 12 businesses participated, providing promotional offers aimed at increasing foot traffic and engaging the Station Bay community. Additionally, Double Dyme Tavern and Java Dave’s Coffee were featured as part of the “Get to Know Your Local Businesses” series, spotlighting their unique offerings and contributions to the local business landscape.
Networking & Collaboration
With over an hour dedicated to business networking, attendees had the opportunity to forge valuable connections, laying the foundation for future partnerships. The event fostered an environment where collaboration thrived, involving small business owners, nonprofit leaders, and local elected officials.
The evening wrapped up with an exciting raffle drawing by Mayor Henry, where Bill Daniell, a Station Bay resident, won a $50 Amazon gift card, courtesy of POP Social Enterprise, LLC. Guests also enjoyed delicious food, catered by Double Dyme Tavern, a beloved South Amboy establishment, courtesy of Station Bay.
Viewpoint of Organizers
"The huge success of the event was largely due to the incredible support of our elected officials, local businesses, nonprofits and the South Amboy Business Association who came out to engage with Station Bay residents. Our goal was to foster meaningful connections among residents, businesses, nonprofits, and elected officials—connections that will contribute to South Amboy’s growth and success. Thanks to their engagement and Station Bay’s generous support, we were able to achieve just that."
— Pat Craddick-Irwin & John Irwin, POP Social Enterprise, LLC
Looking Ahead
The event's overwhelming success highlighted the need to further grow the business ecosystem in South Amboy. Building on this momentum, organizers announced plans to participate in South Amboy Day on Saturday, September 27th, a large-scale community event in the city.
With a strong commitment to supporting local businesses and strengthening community connections, South Amboy is poised to pave the way for a prosperous and connected future.
[From left] John Irwin, Pat Craddick-Irwin, Mayor Fred Henry, Councilman Anthony Conrad
SPECIAL THANKS
Station Bay | Tracey Wilkinson & Staff
BNE | Stephanie Lyden
Double Dyme Tavern | Michelle Gadaleta
Tracey Wilkinson, Station Bay Manager
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