From the editor
If you’re on social media, you’ve likely seen the 10-year challenge posts — the latest trend of users sharing photos of themselves from 2016 and reflecting on how much has changed. That was the year we began our journey with Shore Local. We soon will be celebrating 10 years of publication and steady growth — a milestone that once felt anything but certain.
In early 2016, longtime local print media ownership changed hands, and with it came a shift in direction that Bob felt was detrimental. After more than a decade of leading the advertising department at the Current, he made the difficult decision to choose a new path.
Together, we had a vision to create a new hyper-local publication that spotlighted the people, places and events that shape our lives here at the Jersey Shore. By early March of that year, the first edition of Shore Local came to fruition and was on newsstands throughout Atlantic County and Ocean City.
There was a lot to do! We felt like we were constantly working: branding, networking, selling, writing, delivering papers, covering events and building our digital platforms. Looking back, it’s easy to forget just how much went into those early years. Good thing we were 10 years younger!
Starting something from scratch forced us to bet on ourselves. We controlled the effort we gave, the sacrifices we made and the perseverance we brought to the table. We learned that when we committed fully to your own vision, excuses fell away.
Still, many people believed we didn’t stand a chance. We were laughed at, mocked and warned that we were making a mistake. Some even tried to intimidate us out of trying. But we had too much skin in the game, too much grit and too much belief in what we were building. We trusted the mission, the product and our ability to deliver something meaningful to the community.
Looking back, Shore Local didn’t grow because we were fearless or perfect. It grew because we kept going despite the fear we felt. We learned along the way, adjusted when necessary and stayed focused on serving our readers, advertisers and the communities we cover. That kind of consistency — week after week, year after year — is what compounds over time and builds trust.
If there’s one lesson I’ve taken from the past decade, it’s this: chase your goals with intention and don’t wait for permission. Be willing to think bigger than what feels comfortable. Take ownership of your choices. And don’t let anyone else define your limits. If someone doubts you, let it sharpen your focus rather than slow your stride.
Ten years ago, we took a chance on a dream. We’re grateful every day that we did. We are also deeply thankful for your support along the way. As we look back at the thousands of stories we’ve published about the people, places and events that shape our community, we hope at least one felt personal — something about you, your family, your friends or your business, or a story that simply resonated. Whether in print or online, we aspire to be a welcome addition to your life at the Jersey Shore.
Our slogan says it plainly: home grown and locally owned. We are of this community and for this community. We’re also incredibly proud of the team that brings Shore Local to you each week — people just like you and me, living here, doing business here and raising families in southern Jersey.
Thank you for welcoming Shore Local into your homes and businesses. Your continued support allows us to stay true to our mission — telling local stories with care, integrity and heart.
Peace & Love, Cindy
