Views from the Shore
By Brian Cahill
If you are reading this column, then you are the person Bob and Cindy Fertsch had in mind when they started Shore Local Newsmagazine. Together, they had the sales and marketing experience, as well as the passion and dedication needed to be successful. But, starting a newspaper from scratch in the digital age? Now that was going to take a leap of faith.
But they took it, and more than seven years later, Shore Local has become an institution in the local community. Earlier this month, I asked Bob and Cindy to speak at my marketing class and share their success story with the bright young minds at Stockton University. They were very enthusiastic for the opportunity, and I was grateful to be able to bring their inspirational story to the classroom.
Bob spoke about how they identified and held true to their mission of “For the community, by the community,” and having that mantra be the foundation for everything they do. He also talked about how they have embraced the digital side of media while realizing the value of providing something tangible to reader.
Cindy reinforced that while it’s a lot of work, it is worth all of the time and energy. She spoke about reading a book by television host and comedian Steve Harvey called “Jump,” and how both she and Bob continue to be inspired by its message. One student asked Cindy for advice for students who want to create their own business. Cindy shared three powerful words of wisdom: “Bet on yourself.” I saw the students’ eyes light up when she said that, and at that moment, I could not have been more thankful for their visit to my classroom.
While I knew they would make an impact on my students, I asked several of them to share their thoughts. When you read their words, it’s clear that their time spend in class that night will have an influence well into the future.
“Hearing stories like theirs because makes anything seem possible, whether it’s starting my own business or simply following my dreams. Listening to them share their journey of success gave me hope for my future and a reminder to not ignore ‘the climb.’” Natalie Smith, Senior
“Cindy and Bob are two incredible shore community leaders. Hearing about their professional experiences in this industry and how they eventually progressed their career path was extremely valuable and engaging.” Mahasir Zaman, Sophomore
“Bob and Cindy provided great insight into what it was like to build a business from the ground up. Something that will stick with me for a long time was when Cindy said that the most important person to invest in is yourself. I found this to be a great piece of advice I can apply not only to my professional life but to all parts of my life.” Alyson Doyle, Junior
Cindy and Bob are both wonderful people and genuinely care about the product that they are producing. I think the biggest thing that Cindy said was that you must bet on yourself! It was the best advice they could have given to a group of college students. It resonated with me that they weren’t billionaires starting a company, and that they were just a local couple looking to share community news. I really got a lot from their presentation, and I will take it with me for years to come.” Maria Grasso (Harris) – Senior
Brian Cahill is the Director of Marketing for Shore Medical Center and Shore Physicians Group. He is also on the Board of the Somers Point Business Association and is an Adjunct Professor in the School of Business at Stockton University.
