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  • Manasquan Bank and Their Role in the Community

    Manasquan Bank and Their Role in the Community
    Feb 9 2026
    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.
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    23 Min.
  • Economic and Marketing Growth in 2026

    Economic and Marketing Growth in 2026
    Jan 26 2026
    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.
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    19 Min.
  • New Year and a New Gym

    New Year and a New Gym
    Jan 19 2026
    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.
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    21 Min.
  • First Show of 2026

    First Show of 2026
    Jan 12 2026
    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.
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    27 Min.
  • Meals on Wheels of Ocean County

    Meals on Wheels of Ocean County
    Dec 8 2025
    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.
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    20 Min.
  • LBI Region Report - ShoreBreak Recovery

    LBI Region Report - ShoreBreak Recovery
    Dec 1 2025
    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.
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    17 Min.
  • Thanksgiving Preparations and Local Business Highlights in the LBI Region

    Thanksgiving Preparations and Local Business Highlights in the LBI Region
    Nov 17 2025
    Hi, in this episode of the LBI Region Report, hosts dive into the festive spirit as Thanksgiving approaches, highlighting local businesses and community events that enrich the holiday season. They discuss the newly launched website for the Southern Ocean Chamber, designed to enhance member engagement and support local commerce. Special guest Alicia Hartunian, CEO of Encompass Health Rehabilitation Hospital of Toms River, shares insights on the importance of inpatient rehabilitation and the advanced services offered at their facility. Listeners will gain valuable knowledge about healthcare resources in the community, as well as discover exciting local holiday events like performances at the Stafford Township Arts Center and Surflight Theater. This episode is not just about local happenings; it’s a reminder of the importance of supporting local businesses while also focusing on health and well-being during the holidays.
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    17 Min.
  • Thanksgiving Preparations and Celebrating Small Business in LBI Region

    Thanksgiving Preparations and Celebrating Small Business in LBI Region
    Nov 10 2025
    Hi! In this engaging episode of the LBI Region Report, hosts Lori and Billy dive into the importance of supporting local businesses and preparing for the upcoming Thanksgiving holiday. They highlight the Celebrate Small Business Breakfast scheduled for November 14th, aimed at equipping entrepreneurs with essential resources and networking opportunities. Key guest David Sorkin, president of New Frontier, discusses their initiative to offer free website services to New Jersey small businesses through the NJEDA’s Small Business E-Commerce Support Program, emphasizing the transformative impact of a strong online presence for local shops. The episode wraps with reminders for holiday preparations and local events, ensuring listeners are informed and ready to celebrate the season.
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    22 Min.