Slowing down for safety
From the Editor
The Urban Dictionary defines island time as “the time vacuum created by the ocean’s presence.”
While the phrase is often used to describe the way of life on tropical islands, summer in South Jersey offers that same slowed-down experience. Whether you live here year-round or you’re visiting for the first time, as you cross the bridge to your favorite shore town, remember to slow down for “islanders.”
Summer means more kids on bikes, more adults meandering in golf carts, and care-free pedestrians soaking in the sights, sounds, and smells of the Jersey Shore. This area belongs to all of us, from the nightlife executives leaving work at 5:00 am to the children putting their feet in the ocean for the first time at 10:00 am. From morning until night, the shore buzzes with excitement all summer long.
For those behind the wheel this summer, this is a loving reminder to slow down and look around. Coming to the Jersey Shore during the summer months means crossing over into “island time,” where things are a little more easygoing.
Whether you’re driving to work or the beach, remember to take your time getting there. Before you leave the house, pack an extra dose of patience or build a time cushion into your commute. However you get to where you’re going, be mindful of the people around you. Open doors with caution, drive with your eyes on the road, and keep a lookout out for those taking the scenic route. Stay in the know about bike safety and rules on the next page.
In your travels, don’t forget to stop by the local businesses that are the fabric of our community. When you shop small, you put food on the table for local families and keep someone’s dream alive. Starting a small business can feel like the world is stacked against you, but it’s the people just like you that help local business owners keep going summer after summer.
As you flip through these pages, stop and check out the advertisements from local creators, restaurants, shops, and more. When you find yourself deciding what to do this weekend or what to eat for dinner tonight, pick this publication back up and choose local first. There’s so much to experience here!
This week is Shark Week! Don’t miss our shark-themed puzzles at the back of the magazine and our Shark Week feature on page 16. Be safe, and remember to treat those around you with kindness! Together, we make South Jersey the best place to experience summertime.
Peace & Love,
Cindy
