As we welcome the arrival of spring, we are delighted to present to you the April 2024 issue. This issue is dedicated to celebrating the beauty of nature’s new blossoms, the excitement of new growth, and the joy of warm weather.
Spring is a time of renewal and rejuvenation, and what better way to embrace this spirit than by exploring the new businesses that have recently opened their doors? Whether you are in search of a cozy café for a leisurely afternoon, a boutique filled with the latest fashion trends, a wellness center to nurture your body, or a designer to help update and brighten your home, our local advertisers have something for everyone.
In addition to celebrating the arrival of spring, we are thrilled to announce that this issue will be dedicated to highlighting Women-Owned Businesses. We want to take this opportunity to recognize and honor the incredible women who have shown tremendous dedication, passion and perseverance in their entrepreneurial endeavors. As a fellow business owner, it’s truly inspiring to see the hard work and dedication of other women in the business world. We’re honored to have them featured in this issue, and we support and stand by them in their entrepreneurial journey. Take a look at our Women-Owned Directory and see how many small businesses in our towns are owned by women. Together, we can uplift and empower one another to achieve greater success.
These entrepreneurs have entrusted us with spreading the word about their ventures, inviting you to patronize their establishments. Let’s come together and show our support for them. We encourage you to take the time to peruse this issue and discover the hidden gems that await you in our community.
Our Community News column features the good works of nourish.NJ. With the rise in families suffering from food insecurity, this non-profit’s work is more important than ever. For nearly 40 years, nourish.NJ has been providing relief to those suffering from hunger, homelessness, and poverty. Read the column to learn more about the upcoming golf fundraiser and how to volunteer or donate.
Our wise writer, Ellyn Mantell, reminds us that every day is special in her column, Slice of Life. Learn about some holidays that you probably have never heard of-Whipped Cream Day, Tater Tot Day, or Cloud Day, and the importance of “slowing down enough to recognize the value of each day.”
Discover where you can “Sail the Local Seas,” by reading our Family Adventures column by Joanne Kleinle. The Raritan Yacht Club is local and offers several programs including the
Learn to Sail Program. Although the sailing season is from May to October, the clubhouse is open all year long and offers many activities and events.
On the Cover:
Warren-Watchung edition- Our cover is graced with luscious avocados beaming with hues of greens and yellows-a perfect springtime treat! The artist, Kim Myers Smith, was inspired by “warmth, sunshine, and finding time to nourish your soul.” It is titled, Sun Bathing. It is Kim’s hope that her painting allows you to see the beauty in the simple moments of life.
Bernards-Ridge edition– What are the cows on our cover whispering to each other? The artist, Michal Barkai, imagined just that when she named the piece, Local Gossips. She was inspired to paint these beautiful, colorful, texturized cows from a photo she took while sightseeing in Ireland. Could they be whispering about the tourists photographing them?
Bridgewater-Somerville edition– The vibrant flowers on our cover were painted by local artist, Marjorie St. Clair. The medium is watercolor and pen. I was struck by the lovely spring colors-reds, pinks, purples, yellows, and greens-popping off the page. Marjorie titled the piece, Hope Springs… and was inspired by the beauty and hope that the season brings.
Thank you for your continued readership and for joining us in welcoming the arrival of spring. We hope that this issue inspires you to embrace the spirit of new beginnings and explore the exciting opportunities that our community has to offer.
Wishing you a season filled with joy, growth, and warm weather.
Best regards,
Anna Petro