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RSSThe Taste of Southern Ocean Hunger Relief Dinner Chairmen, Dan Taylor of Anderson Agency and Chef Ian Smith of Ocean County Vo Tech, are pleased to announce the tremendous success of the 2012 Boardwalk Dynasty dinner which was held at Sea Oaks on April 24. Thanks to the hard work and dedication of the 2012 Taste Committee, sponsors, chefs and attendees Barnegat Food Pantry, St Francis Center Food Pantry, The Lacey Food Bank, Tuckerton Area inter Church Food Pantry, Ocean Community Church Food Ministry, St Stephens Episcopal Church Food Pantry and Ken's Kitchen of St Mary's Church will benefit from the $70,000 raised.
The entire Taste Committee would like to thank local chefs and restaurants that included: Allan Menegus of Buckalew's, J Geoffrey Johnson of Copper Fish, Charles Ostergren of Viking Fresh Off the Hook, Mike Creevy and Chris Herrmann of Sea Oak's Country Club, Daniel Stragapede of La Spiaggia, Joe Manfe of Grapevine, Kevin Sparks of Howard's, Paul Dim of Scojo's, JB Maschal of Country Kettle Fudge, and the Culinary Students of Ocean County Vocational-Technical School; and sponsors Barnegat Dental, The SandPaper, Southern Ocean County Surgical Association, Berry, Sahradnik, Kotzas & Benson, Anderson Insurance Agency, Warren Distributing Company South and Shore Points. Live auction items such as The Last Night on the Titanic Dinner, Private Chef in home Dinner Parties and Reynolds Landscaping Packages all generously donated, added to the grand total.
"The committee are so very gratified with the attendance, the food lovingly prepared by our local chefs and the great success of the evening", stated Dan Taylor. "Again, the volunteers and the community came through and showed their support and understanding of how important these food pantries are". The members of the 2012 Taste of Southern Ocean County Committee were Barbara Bobbin-Wilkinson, New York Life Insurance Co, John Boekell of Shore Community Bank, Michele Cuff, Chamber of Commerce, Ellen Dondereo Meyer, TD Bank, Adnrea Driscoll, The SandPaper, Rose Goedtel, Anderson Insurance Agency, Pamela Jillson, New York Life, Ellen R Johnson, Barnegat Dental, Debbie Motta, Manahawkin Urgent Care, Lori Pepenella, Destination Marketing Director, R Reynolds, Chamber of Commerce, Chris Schwab, Anderson Insurance Agency, Mark & Peg Reynolds of Reynolds Garden Shop. Special Acknowledgements go to Master of Ceremonies Bob Fishbein, Dinner Music and Entertainment; Sean Eckstadt, Sound Master DJs, Cocktail Hour Pianist; Earl Sutton, Decorating and Décor; Unshredded Nostaglia, Dinner Volunteers; Sandy Goldsborough and Melissa Peck and the Chamber of Commerce Staff.
Plans for 2013 are already underway and the date has been set with Sea Oaks for April 24, 2013. For more information regarding Taste Dinner contact Southern Ocean County Chamber of Commerce 609 494 7211.
Congratulations to the winner Jennifer Holly from Barnegat, whose name was drawn from over 85 qualified entries as the Wedding Road Show Down the Aisle in Style Grand Giveaway Winning Bride. She claimed her prize along with her father Bob and their service dog in training Hector at the Southern Ocean County Chamber of Commerce office on May 7, 2012
Jennifer, alumni of Barnegat High School, will be graduating University of Delaware earning a degree in Exercise Science, later this month; a few weeks after her fiancé Robert Mitchell graduates from Boston University. Jennifer, who has been employed as a lifeguard in Loveladies for the past five summers is planning her wedding ceremony on the beach this September followed by a reception in Atlantic City. Jen met Robert who grew up in Middletown, but whose family has a home in Beach Haven West during a pole vault competition. Robert will be commissioned into the NJ National Guard as a finance officer this summer.
The Grand Prize Giveaway was sponsored by Demetrios Bridal, Dante Zeller at Uniformity in Manahawkin, Novell Jewelry Design, Creatively Yours Dayna and Nightlife Entertainment. It features a wedding dress of the bride's chose from the Destination Romance Collection, five tuxedo rentals from Dante Zeller Premiere Line, Engagement Photo Shoot and entertainment services. The Wedding Road show brought hundreds of brides, grooms, wedding parties and families together on April 22, 2012 to tour the wedding venues and wedding services offered in the Long Beach Island Region of the Jersey Shore. The event was presented by the Southern Ocean County Chamber of Commerce/LBI Region DMO along with media sponsors including NJ Division of Travel and Tourism, NJWedding.com, Magic 100.1fm, The Knot, Celebrations Guide, WedAlert and New Jersey Bride.
For more information on LBI Region DMO or Southern Ocean Chamber go to visitLBIregion.com or contact chamber office at 609 494 7211.
NJWedding.com and Southern Ocean County Chamber announces winner of Wedding Road Show VIP Experience Contest
Long Beach Island, NJ - With over 1,200 brides-to-be entering online and at statewide bridal shows, it was the luck of the draw as Erik Kent, Co-Publisher of NJWedding.com chose the winning Wedding Road Show VIP Bride and Groom, to claim their wonderful LBI prize package on April 21st.
NJWedding.com's Wedding Road Show "VIP Experience" Contest Winners, Stephanie Scarpa and Richard Lechner
Stephanie Scarpa, from Cherry Hill, is a Math Teacher at a regional High School in Mullica Hill, NJ and her fiance, Richard Lechner, is a funeral director in his family business, Lechner Funeral Home in Medford, NJ. Their wedding ceremony will be taking place in Tabernacle, NJ on June 22, 2013 and their wedding reception is planned at long-time Wedding Road Show partner, The Stateroom on Long Beach Island.
Stephanie and Richard have been dating for 4 1/2 years and have spent a lot of time together with friends and family on Long Beach Island over the years. They were engaged in Philadelphia in January 2012, and Stephanie always pictured a "beach wedding" complete with wedding photos taken on the beach. Kent, who contacted Stephanie directly, said "They are thrilled to have won the ‘VIP Experience' at the Wedding Road Show, which includes an overnight stay at Daddy O Boutique Hotel on Saturday night, along with a custom welcome gift basket by Camille's Floral Design, an LBI-themed cookie basket from A Sweet Memory, and they will chauffeured around the region in a white stretch limousine to make their stops during the Wedding Road Show by Lacey Limousines. "In addition to the package NJWedding.com is also providing a dining gift card to Daddy O Restaurant for the winning couple."
The Wedding Road Show on LBI is taking place Sunday, April 22nd from 10am - 4pm. For more information go to http://www.visitlbiregion.com/ or call the Southern Ocean County Chamber of Commerce at (609) 494-7211. The event is sponsored by the Southern Ocean County Chamber of Commerce and the New Jersey Division of Travel and Tourism, as well as various media partners, including Magic 100.1, the knot, Wed Alert, Celebrations Guide, New Jersey Bride and NJWedding.com.
The Gables Restaurant located at 212 Centre Street Beach Haven will be celebrating its 120th anniversary this May after repairs are complete from this weekend's fire.
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In a class all its own, Zagat Rated, Bride's Choice Award winner, The Gables, has stood in the heart of Victorian Beach Haven since 1892 bringing families and friends together in a exquisite setting that can only be surpassed by the beauty of Long Beach Island itself. On Sunday, April 8, there was a fire that began outside the building that, due to windy conditions, quickly spread to the upper floors, but leaving the first floor and kitchen unharmed. All patrons and staff left safely, and thanks to the quick response from local police and fire companies the fire was extinguished The construction process has already begun, and the management has set a plan in motion to reopen their doors for Memorial Day Weekend 2012.
Members of the Southern Ocean County Chamber of Commerce, owners Sondra and Stephen Beninati were crucial in establishing the Wedding Road Show in 2009 and have continually supported tourism initiatives such as Chocolate Week, The Lighthouse International Film Festival and Pre Theatre events. " The Gables puts you under a wonderful spell, it seems that for whatever the reason is that brings you there, it magically becomes a special occasion" says Lori Pepenella, Destination Marketing Director of the Southern Ocean County Chamber of Commerce. "We look forward in joining with The Gables family when they once again open their doors to guests"
"We are grateful to our guests, clients and for the community support we have received" states Sondra Beninati, "The staff and management will continue to work diligently and intends to honor all commitments for events that are scheduled before renovations are complete." Anyone wishing to contact The Gables directly please visit their website gableslbi.com for further information.
Brides can begin planning a destination wedding of their dreams, as the largest selection of open houses and wedding professionals at the Jersey Shore provide the perfect wedding showcase.
This year the LBI Wedding Road Show is about to have one lucky bride say yes not only to the dress, but to the tuxedos and the wedding bands as well! With the Long Beach Island Region DMO/Southern Ocean County Chamber being very fashion forward, the Down the Aisle is Style Grand Giveaway is just one reason to spend the day touring mini wedding reception open houses meeting, greeting and eating their way to winning prizes from each vendor, sponsor giveaways and the grand prize.
Recognized at the 2011 NJ Tourism Conference by NJ Travel Industry Association and the NJ Division of Travel and Tourism; for the way the LBI Wedding Road Show has changed the way destination weddings are marketed throughout the state; this fourth annual event will be better than ever. Beginning at one of three registration sites including Tuckerton Seaport, Holiday Inn Manahawkin or Southern Ocean County Chamber in Ship Bottom; these locations will all be ready to welcome brides and their entourages at 9:30 am. The brides will receive detailed maps and programs that will allow them to create their own touring schedule until 4 pm. Brides have an opportunity to take a self guided tour through the area's finest venues, meeting, greeting and eating their way through wedding locations and services. Every registered stop the bride visits she will acquire a signature from the vendors located there, the more signatures she receives the entries she will have for the grand prize, New this year is a Wedding Road Show Mobile App that brides can download onto their phone for easy access to mapping and detailed information about the participants during the event and throughout their wedding planning process.
With the grand prize being all about the fashion; attendees can view first hand some of the fabulous dresses from Demetrios on display at various Road Show stops. The LBI Wedding Road Show offers the winning bride her choice of wedding gown from Demetrios Bridal "Destination Romance" Collection, choice of five tuxedos from the Premiere Line at Dante Zeller Tuxedo at Uniformity in Manahawkin, Wedding Bands by Novell Jewelry Design, plus additional prizes such as an Engagement Photo Shoot by Creatively Yours Dayna and J&S Video Services. Media Sponsors include New Jersey Brides Magazine, NJWedding.com, WedAlert.com, The Knot, Celebrations Guide and Demetrios Bridal/For Your Bride. Presenting sponsors are the New Jersey Division of Travel and Tourism and The LBI Region DMO/ Southern Ocean County Chamber of Commerce.
Back again are two Road Show favorites, the Something Borrowed Something Blue Claw ticket giveaway, to brides and bridal party to receive free tickets to April 29 game at Lakewood Blue Claw First Energy Park and the VIP Experience and win a April 21 at Daddy Os to kick off the weekend in style at NJWedding.com. There is no free for brides or their guests to attend this event, for more information on the LBI Region Wedding Road Show contact 609 494 7211, find LBI Region on facebook or twitter or go to visitLBIregion.com
With news to share to the business owners and community leaders of Southern Ocean County, LT Governor Kim Guadagno will be the featured speaker at the Southern Ocean County Chamber of Commerce's March Membership Meeting on Tuesday March 13 at the Holiday Inn Rt 72 in Manahawkin. An advocate for NJ business, the LT Governor will have the latest updates and future plans on what is happening within the Garden State.
"We are honored to have the LT Governor be a part of our next meeting," says Chamber President Chris Schwab of G Anderson Agency, " It is important for our local busniesses to be aware about what the state has been doing. to bring business into the state." Lt Governor Guadagno has served as Sheriff of Monmouth County, taught at Rutgers Law School and was sworn in as the state's first Lt Governor in January 2010.
This meeting is open to Chamber Members, guests and interested members of the community. Networking begins at 11:30 am; a buffet lunch will be served before the presentation. The cost is $20; reservations can be made by contacting the Southern Ocean County Chamber office at 609 494 7211 or registering online at visitLBIregion.com.
The 5th Annual New Jersey's Top 10 Beaches Survey, which is sponsored by the NJ Sea Grant Consortium will rate LBI and the 47 other shore communities in Eco Tourism, Family Vacation, Day Trip and Best Beach. Last year, LBI came in as second for best beach overall, and has placed in top since the beginning of the contest. To keep LBI in the running, it is all about the votes, links to the site are on the LBI Region Facebook page, on the Southern Ocean County Chamber website VisitLBIRegion.com and the specific
Njtoptenbeaches.org voting site
Last year, LBI was featured in the NJ TOP TEN BEACH calendar; back again this is year is a Top Ten photo contest with photos on the subject of Natural Elements of New Jersey Beaches. The winning photos will be included in a Top Beach Calendar. Original photos can be submitted from February 24 to the end of March with winners being selected from a panel of notable photographers from North, Central and South Jersey. Information about the contest is available at the njtoptenbeaches.org website.
Voting online is free and available at www.njtoptenbeaches.org beginning February 21 and running through April. The Winner will be announced at the Summit at the Shore Press Conference in May. Last year LBI Region DMO and Southern Ocean County Chamber of Commerce was on hand to receive the win which is displayed in their Visitor Center located in Ship Bottom at the gateway of Long Beach Island along with two NJ Governor's Awards for Tourism Excellence.
Visit the LBI Region of the Jersey Shore halloween week to enjoy the flavors and fantasy of the season
Full moon, still water and historic buildings set the tone for a unique halloween mood this October. The Southern Ocean County Chamber of Commerce and the Long Beach Island Region DMO have the short list for every age looking to experience this spooky season like never before. We kick it off for businesspeople to get in some bone chilling networking at The Halloween Bash on October 19 from 5:30 - 7:30pm. The Bash is sponsored by Everything Woman "and then some", a very unique boutique. In addition, Everything Woman has invited the following shops at the Manahawkin Mart to participate and give you the opportunity to visit their shops and sample their wares. Guest Hosts: include Manahawkin Mart sthops such as Home Dive, Cake That,, Southern Grace Pies, , Market Place Cheese Shoppe. Join us for Door Prizes, Lots of Good Food, & Door Prizes. RSVP's through the Chamber of Commerce will receive 10 tickets at the Door to use for a drawing for a door prize. 609 494 7211
Bring the whole family to the Tuckerton Seaport on October 21 & 22 where Pirates and sea captains long lost at sea, stroll the boardwalk for a night of screams. "Haunted Forest", hayrides, phragmites maze, food, refreshments and a non-scary pumpkin patch for the little ones. Black Pearl Haunted Boat Rides will also be available. Tickets for Boat Ride: $10.00 per person; Admission $8 non members, $5.00 members, hayrides $2.00 with paid admission, hayrides free for members.
Visit The Gables Restaurnat on October 23 at 2pm for Tea & Spirits... Ever wondered why we are here? Or what's on the other side? Would you like to contact a loved one who has passed? All of these topics to be explored at our Psychic Tea. LESLIE LYNCH IS A WELL KNOWN PSYCHIC MEDIUM in the New Jersey and New York area who's abilities span back many generations. As a psychic, Leslie can provide you with guidance in areas where you feel lost and confused or just need a little direction. As a medium, she can receive messages from your deceased loved ones in spirit. Leslie can help you connect with guidance from both energy and spirit to help heal your life, your grief, your relationships, your career, your financial issues, your body and soul. $48 per person includes coffee, tea, tea sandwiches, pastries as well as some individual readings in a group setting. Reservations necessary via phone 609-492-3553.
On October 28th, the Bay Avenue Business Association will be holding the "1stAnnual Bay Avenue Halloween Block Party". This event will be held at The Manahawkin Mart. The "block party" will feature food, concerts, hayrides, trick or treating, costume contests and more. Funds raised at this event will support the local 2011 Free Thanksgiving Dinner hosted by Tiki Taco. Also on October 28 is Murder Mystery Dinner Show at the Engleside Inn co sponsored by the Tuckerton Seaport. A delicious and entertaining "whodunit" with murder and mayhem guaranteed. 6pm to 9pm. Go to TuckertonSeaport. org for details.
Still want more? You got it, Visit the historic Surf City Hotel's "The Mansion of Health" 1st Annual Halloween Ball Benefiting the Surf City Volunteer Fire Company Saturday October 29th, 2011 8pm to 2am Costume Required and your ticket of $30.00 Includes: Buffet DJ Entertainment Psychic Reading Midnight Toast Halloween Movies in addition there will be Costume Prizes Silent Auction & Raffle Celebrate Halloween Ghostly Style...If You Dare Tickets Available for Purchase at the Surf City Hotel or call 609-494-7281 *Must be 21 or older to attend*
Don't forget to go to the Southern Ocean County Chamber of Commerce website visitLBIregion.com for a full list of area events, details on area ScareCrow Row entries so you don't miss one creation as well as what is coming up for the holiday season in our region. The Chamber Visitor Center is open Monday through Friday from 10am to 4pm and is ready to help with details on what is happening, haunted or otherwise in the LBI Region. Contact the Southern Ocean County Chamber of Commerce/LBI Region DMO at 609 494 7211 or stop in at 265 W Ninth Street in Ship Bottom, NJ.
What an amazing weekend! Thank you to our restaurants, volunteers and guests who came to make the 23rd Annual Chowderfest the best one ever!! Kicking it off with a special performance from SouthSide Johnny on Saturday afternoon, and rolling right through until Sunday evening - thousands took advantage of great food, weather and friendship! That is what it is all about!
The Travel Channel picked Labor Day Weekend to premiere their ode to the Jersey Shore; and what a great show it was. Not only did it feature top shore areas and what makes them so fascinating., but did a wonderful job showcasing the laid back feel of LBI. The Travel Channel captured Crust and Crumb's Bakery in Beach Haven making their world famous "Elephant Ears" and of visited Brighton Beach Surf Shop where LBI surfing history was shared by Mike and his dad. If you get a chance to catch it on Travel Channel or view it online
Check out what other props the Travel Channel shows the Jersey Shore at http://search.travelchannel.com/travel/jersey-shore/index.html
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