The most wonderful season
From the Editor
It truly is the most wonderful time of the year, isn’t it? The lights, the decorations, the trees and to top it all off this week, some surprise December snow to enjoy. The holiday season has arrived. Hanukkah is coming to an end on Monday, Kwanzaa and Christmas are just a few weeks away. Holiday parties, family gatherings, and mailboxes full of greeting cards are just a few of the blessings of the season.
Holiday events in South Jersey are plentiful. We are fortunate to live in an entertainment mecca with so many choices of top notch shows and events. Check out Dina Guzzardo’s review of Jingle at the Tropicana, a must see. Smithville is a magical place this time of year and their light show on the lake is second to none. Asbury Avenue in Ocean City has charm like no other. From the decorations, and small business charm to the horse and carriage rides, it has a fairy tale feel all of its own. Storybook Land and Forever Forest offer holiday family fun for everyone.
Hamilton Mall is redefining itself as a community center that offers much more than just shopping. In the past few weeks alone they have offered ice skating, meet and greets with Nickelodeon star Sean Ryan Fox, Santa visits and this week they are hosting breakfast with Santa. Check out on page 18, how the mall is now accommodating families with special needs through Sensory Friendly Santa visits.
‘Tis the season for entertaining as well! Tammy Thornton‘s “Welcome Home for the Holidays” offers great ideas for using the iconic evergreen of the Christmas season as a focal point for home decor. Marci Lutsky serves up great ideas for a cookie swap and even shares a forte recipe. Also check out Marci’s feature on the innovative idea happening on Asbury Avenue in Ocean City – Make a Wish Wednesday.
This is the season of giving. We have all seen the Salvation Army Red Kettle volunteers out collecting donations for those in need. This issue we salute the Salvation Army and each and every person that volunteers with them to help. The Salvation Army is a light in our community that provides countless services everyday to those in need. Read more about them on page 8 and how you can help. Get involved, love, serve, and connect during the most beautiful time of the year.
Wishing everyone the joy and magic of the season!!
Peace & Love,
Cindy
