Welcome to our first issue of the New Year! As we bid farewell to last year, we extend our warmest wishes for a happy New Year filled with abundant blessings and prosperity.
In this issue, we invite you to explore the vibrant local businesses in our community. These dedicated entrepreneurs are eager to bring you their unique products and services. By supporting them, you not only contribute to the growth of our neighborhoods but also foster a sense of unity and togetherness.
With Valentine’s Day just around the corner, our magazine features a special page dedicated to helping you find the perfect gifts for your loved ones. Discover creative ideas and thoughtful gestures that will make this day of love truly memorable.
As Easter approaches early this year, we encourage you to take a moment to reflect on Faith, Love and Joy. Our magazine offers a curated selection of places where you can find solace and inspiration during this sacred time.
Impact100 Garden State is calling all amazing women to join them on their journey towards empowering women’s philanthropy. Read our Community News article to discover how a group of women who donate their time and money to create grants for nonprofits can make such a difference in the lives of underserved populations. Celeste Campos, vice president of Impact100, shares some of the projects they have worked on recently-truly admirable!
On the Cover:
Warren-Watchung Edition
New Jersey Redheads is the title of the watercolor painting on this issue’s cover. It is painted by Ericka Gorrin of Watchung. It is part of a series of paintings featuring waterfowl seen on the New Jersey and Pennsylvania flyaway. The male, with its bright red head, contrasts with the mostly brown-colored female. Ericka is inspired by elucidating her subjects’ environment and personalities through her art to the viewers.
Bernards-Ridge Edition
Our cover art is an oil painting by Mary Kooi of Summit. Entitled Blue Shutters, it is a scene from Casperia, Italy, where Mary started the painting, “plein air” or painting outdoors. She completed this painting at the Visual Art Center of NJ. Her inspiration came from the subject matter, as well as the play of light and color in the landscape
Bridgewater-Somerville Edition
The gentle, affectionate elephants on our cover were painted by Roberta Oliver. It is titled, Unbreakable Bond. Roberta lives in NJ and often vacations on the west coast of Florida, where she acquires inspiration for much of her artwork. She is also inspired by nature and all it encompasses. Please visit her website to read her extensive list of accomplishments and to view her art: RobertaOliver.com.
Let us remember to shop local and support the small businesses that form the backbone of our communities. By doing so, we not only uplift our local economy but also create a stronger, more connected community for all.
Wishing you a wonderful start to the New Year ahead!
Warm regards,
Anna Petro