Hi! In this episode of the LBI Region Report, hosts Bill and Lori discuss the vibrant local events leading up to St. Patrick’s Day and the exciting summer activities planned for the Jersey Shore, particularly focusing on the upcoming 250th anniversary celebrations and the FIFA World Cup. They highlight the Lucky Business After Hours social event at Pinelands Brewery, aimed at fostering connections among local businesses, while also emphasizing the importance of preparedness for the influx of visitors during the summer months. Noteworthy initiatives include a community safety forum scheduled for April 1st, which will provide crucial insights into event readiness and crowd management. With a mix of historical reflections, community engagement, and entertainment, this episode underscores the region's commitment to celebrating its heritage and supporting local enterprises.
**Key Issues and Topics Discussed:**
- Upcoming Lucky Business After Hours social event at Pinelands Brewery.
- Preparation for the 250th anniversary celebrations and the FIFA World Cup.
- The April 1st safety seminar focused on event readiness and crowd management.
- Historical significance of Ocean County during the Revolutionary War.
- Surf Light Theatre's upcoming season, featuring the musical "1776" celebrating the founding fathers.
Listeners can expect valuable insights into local initiatives and community spirit, making this episode a must-listen for anyone interested in the happenings around the Jersey Shore.

In this week's episode of the LBI Region Report, hosts Bill and Lori  discuss exciting upcoming events and opportunities within the Jersey Shore community, particularly focused on the St. Patrick's Day celebrations and a crucial career fair happening on March 12th. The episode highlights a special pre-St. Patrick's Day gathering at Pineland Brewery on March 16th, aimed at fostering business networking and connections. Attendees can enjoy a welcoming atmosphere while building professional relationships, all while avoiding the infamous green beer!
The episode also features an insightful conversation with Jeannie Paige , a regional coordinator from the New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development. Jeannie elaborates on the various programs and services available for both job seekers and employers, including the One-Stop Career Centers and workforce development boards. She emphasizes the importance of these resources in supporting job seekers, offering opportunities for training, recruitment, and even financial incentives for hiring candidates from certain populations. Notably, the episode discusses the On-the-Job Training (OJT) program, which provides wage reimbursements to employers, thereby encouraging them to hire and train individuals who may otherwise struggle to find employment.
Listeners will gain valuable insights into local job opportunities and resources available for career advancement, making this episode a must-listen for anyone in the Southern Ocean County area looking to connect with employers or explore new career paths. With the promise of a vibrant community spirit and plenty of professional growth opportunities, this episode sets the stage for an engaging week ahead in the LBI region.

In this engaging episode of the LBI Region Report, hosts Bill and Lori dive into the vibrant happenings around the Jersey Shore as March ushers in a season of celebration and community engagement. Kicking off the episode, they discuss the rescheduled Women in Business event, which will take place at the Southern Ocean County Restore, offering attendees an insightful look into Habitat for Humanity’s impactful work. The conversation shifts to the excitement surrounding St. Patrick's Day festivities, including a pre-celebration with insights from notable guests Rob Shea of Pinelands Brewing Company and Jim Natoli from Wharfside Cigar.
Rob Shea shares the journey of Pinelands Brewing as they approach their 12th anniversary, emphasizing their commitment to traditional brewing methods and pure ingredients sourced from the local environment. Shea’s passion for craft beer shines through as he discusses upcoming celebratory events, including live music and food trucks, promising a lively weekend for the community. Meanwhile, Jim Natoli recounts his journey of transforming a historic gristmill into Wharfside Cigar, a community hub that not only offers cigars but also supports local initiatives like school lunches for children in need. His dedication to fostering community connections is evident as he describes the space as a welcoming environment for social interaction and support.
Listeners can look forward to a variety of events in March, including a job fair aimed at connecting job seekers with local employers, and a special St. Patrick's Day social hosted by the Southern Ocean Chamber. This episode is a treasure trove of local insights, community spirit, and opportunities for engagement, making it a must-listen for anyone interested in the LBI region. Tune in to discover how these local businesses are making a difference and how you can participate in the growing community initiatives!

In this week's episode of the LBI Region Report, hosts Bill and Lori share an upbeat outlook for the community as they transition from winter into spring, highlighting upcoming events and initiatives that promise to enrich the Jersey Shore experience. With St. Patrick's Day just around the corner, the duo announces a pre-holiday networking event on March 16th at Pinelands Brewery, designed to foster connections among local businesses and professionals. Additionally, they spotlight two significant events: the Women in Business series on February 24th, featuring talks by key figures from Habitat for Humanity, and the Phillies Pitch After Hours on February 26th, which aims to bring the excitement of baseball to Southern Ocean County.
A central highlight of this episode is the introduction of Chris Bristow from the Ocean County Career Center, who discusses the essential services provided by the organization to both job seekers and employers. With a focus on helping individuals obtain in-demand credentials—ranging from medical assistance to network security—Chris emphasizes the importance of resume assistance in today's job market. He shares valuable insights on the challenges faced by local businesses, particularly small enterprises that often struggle to find qualified personnel. Chris explains how the Career Center acts as a vital link between job seekers and employers, ensuring a better fit for both parties.

In this week's episode of the LBI Region Report, hosts Bill and Lori dive into a blend of community business updates and festive Valentine’s Day happenings on the Jersey Shore. Kicking off the show with a light-hearted banter about love and chocolate, the hosts highlight upcoming events, including a CPR training session at Manifirkin Brewery on February 19th, a Women in Business gathering at Habitat for Humanity, and a Phillies Pitch after-hours event at LBI National Golf and Resort. Each event aims to foster community engagement and business networking, emphasizing the importance of local connections as we head into the new year.
The episode features a notable guest, Jim Vaccaro, the Chair and CEO of Manasquan Bank, who provides deep insights into the unique role of community banks in today’s evolving financial landscape. Vaccaro shares the bank's commitment to balancing traditional banking practices with modern technology, asserting that while many banks are moving away from physical branches, Manasquan Bank remains dedicated to personal interactions and community service. He discusses their philosophy of being "big enough to matter, small enough to care," and the importance of understanding the diverse needs of clients across generations—from baby boomers to Gen Z and beyond. 
Listeners can also look forward to a variety of local Valentine's Day promotions and events, encouraging community members to shop locally. From special dining experiences at local restaurants to unique gift options from nearby businesses, the hosts stress the significance of supporting local enterprises during this high-demand holiday. Overall, this episode is packed with valuable information for anyone looking to stay connected with the community while also planning for a festive Valentine's celebration. Tune in to discover the exciting opportunities available in the LBI region and the importance of community banking in supporting local families and businesses.

In this week's episode of the LBI Region Report, hosts Bill  and Lori delve into the exciting developments happening in Southern Ocean County as they kick off the Southern Ocean Chamber's 112th year. With Valentine's Day approaching and winter still lingering, the duo discusses upcoming events, including the highly anticipated State of the Chamber meeting on January 30th. This gathering promises to be a pivotal moment for the community, bringing together local officials and influential voices to share updates and plans that will shape the region's future.
The episode features special guest Blaise from Southern Ocean Consulting, who will play a vital role as the Chamber's Economic Engagement Director. Blaise shares insights on his strategic vision for the year ahead, focusing on enhancing member engagement and growing sponsorship opportunities. He emphasizes the importance of adapting to the "attention economy" and creating measurable impacts for local businesses through a variety of marketing channels. The discussion also touches on the significance of community involvement, networking events, and the collaborative spirit that defines Southern Ocean County.
Listeners can look forward to more than just updates; they will hear about upcoming initiatives such as a job fair in March and the popular Women in Business series starting January 27th. Furthermore, the hosts highlight the importance of keeping local businesses informed about regulatory changes and opportunities within the community. With a commitment to fostering connections and driving economic growth, this episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the dynamic developments taking place along the Jersey Shore. Tune in to discover how you can get involved and make the most of the resources available in this vibrant region.

In this episode of the LBI Region Report, hosts Bill and Lori kick off the new year by exploring the theme of wellness and self-care as they welcome Danielle Avalon, the program director and owner of Sets Barnegat. Avalon shares her journey of establishing a fitness community that caters to all ages and fitness levels in Southern Ocean County, emphasizing the importance of creating a welcoming environment where individuals can work out without intimidation. She discusses the unique offerings of Sets, which focus on community-driven fitness, varied workout routines, and a supportive coaching staff that prioritizes personal growth and safety.
Listeners will appreciate Avalon's insights on the mental aspects of fitness, highlighting that the gym should be a place of empowerment and motivation, rather than fear. She introduces exciting new programs such as "Silver Sets," designed for those aged 55 and older, and the upcoming Pilates classes, both aimed at enhancing overall health and functional movement. Avalon and the hosts also discuss upcoming community events, including a trivia night aimed at fostering connections among members, and a Women in Business networking event scheduled for January 27th, showcasing the strength of community engagement in promoting wellness and collaboration.
Overall, this episode is a compelling listen for anyone interested in fitness, community, and personal well-being, particularly those looking for a supportive environment to kickstart their health journey in the new year. With practical insights, personal anecdotes, and a clear passion for fostering a sense of belonging, Avalon’s perspective makes it clear that Sets Barnegat is more than just a gym—it's a hub for building connections and achieving personal health goals.

In the inaugural episode of 2026, hosts Bill and Lori  celebrate the New Year while delivering essential updates for the Long Beach Island (LBI) region. They kick off the show by discussing the recent New Jersey minimum wage increase to $15.92 per hour, which includes a gradual rise for seasonal and small businesses, designed to ease their financial burden. This change exemplifies the commitment to fostering a supportive environment for workers and businesses alike. Listeners are encouraged to visit visitlbiregion.com for detailed information about these regulations and classifications.
The episode also sheds light on pressing issues, including a surge in phishing scams targeting local businesses and residents. The hosts emphasize the importance of vigilance against these threats, advising listeners to verify unexpected requests and report suspicious messages. With a focus on community safety, they highlight the Southern Ocean Chamber's partnership with the New Jersey Cybersecurity and Communications Integration Cell to combat these malicious activities. 
Joining the hosts is Kate Career, the Chamber's business development coordinator, who outlines exciting upcoming events like the State of the Chamber on January 30, where local officials and key industry leaders will address vital topics impacting the community. Additionally, they discuss the popular Women in Business networking event and an upcoming job fair, emphasizing the Chamber's role in fostering connections and opportunities for local businesses. With a fresh website and new initiatives underway, this episode of the LBI Region Report sets the tone for an engaging and productive year ahead, making it a must-listen for anyone interested in the community's growth and safety.

Hi! In this engaging episode of the LBI Ridge Report, hosts Lori and her guest, Heather DeYoung, Director of Advancement and Engagement for Meals on Wheels of Ocean County, dive into the holiday spirit at the shore while discussing vital community services. They highlight the upcoming holiday bazaar at St. Francis, the significance of the 112th Annual State of the Chamber event, and the Southern Ocean Job Fair, all while emphasizing the essential role of Meals on Wheels in delivering not just meals but also companionship and wellness checks to over 1,700 seniors. Heather shares insights into the program's operations, including eligibility criteria and how volunteers can make a difference. This episode serves as an informative guide for those looking to get involved, support local initiatives, or simply enjoy the festive offerings at the shore during this bustling season.

Hi, in this episode of the LBI Region Report, hosts Lori and Billy celebrate the arrival of December and reflect on their 13 years of broadcasting. They kick off the holiday season with an invitation to the Southern Ocean Chamber Open House, highlighting the festive atmosphere and opportunities for local businesses to promote their offerings. The spotlight then shifts to special guest Erin Grant from Shorebreak Recovery, who discusses their mission to support individuals recovering from substance abuse. Listeners gain insights into the comprehensive care offered, including outpatient services, trauma-informed care, and the importance of community support. Erin emphasizes their commitment to accessibility, accepting various insurances, including Medicaid, and providing scholarships for those in need. This episode beautifully blends community spirit with essential health resources, making it a must-listen for anyone interested in local events and support systems.