Summer 2024 Issue

Jersey’s favorite summer treat. Photograph by Oleksandr

I have always loved the sight of city skylines. Passing by Philly on Amtrak; seeing the Manhattan skyline fill the distant horizon from the Jersey Turnpike or the cliff s of Weehawken. To me, skylines are awe-inspiring, a testament to accomplishment and majesty and possibility. I once believed their vertical beauty would be forever constant, an absolute certainty, in my life. But, while I’ve often been sad to see new buildings overpower the old or former icons replaced, changing skylines remind me that the only thing certain in life is change—and change is good.

Which brings me to this issue. The stories featured here—and in most of our issues—are all about change and people willing to take ‘the next step’. Cal Peternell has moved from one coast to another to pursue his passion at FiNNBAR in Frenchtown. Farmer Kyle Smith is developing a new niche to ensure his legacy. After twenty years at Double Brook Farm in Hopewell, Robin and Jon McConaughy are re-tooling their business for the future. With their move to New Jersey, former Brooklynites Maria and Otto Zizak have chosen a new lifestyle for themselves and their family.

And then there is Newark. New Jersey’s largest city is going through a major evolution in terms of spirit and opportunities.  ere are many reasons to visit Brick City and, in our view, nearly all of them involve food. So, we are honored to share a special section on the city’s food culture. (And, in case you haven’t noticed, Newark’s skyline is changing, too.)

Speaking of change, this issue marks the start of our 18th year of publishing Edible Jersey and celebrating the food community of the Garden State. Ray and I are awestruck by the evolution of New Jersey’s local food movement over these past many years. NJ’s food world has changed for the better, due in large part to the inherent appreciation that consumers now have for Garden State farmers, food artisans, and local food. As we look ahead at our own next chapter, we’re open to partnership opportunities and new venture proposals to ensure Edible Jersey’s mission going forward. Interested? Please reach out at info@ediblejersey.com.

Change comes in many forms. (Even one of our long-term ad partners announces their own change below.) Summer is never a time to be stagnant, and we hope this issue helps you shake things up. Try a new farmers’ market, visit a new town, or renew your backyard. Embrace change, move forward, and enjoy the summer!

Sincerely,
Nancy Painter
Editor & Publisher

TO ALL OUR LOYAL CUSTOMERS:

My father started Baker's Bounty in the 1970’s, and for the last 5 decades it has been my great joy to continue bringing you fine baked goods at farmers’ markets throughout NJ and NY. It is now time for me to move on to a new chapter, so we have turned off our ovens for the last time. My family and I are sincerely grateful for your support and encouragement all these years. I hope you continue to find and support what’s fresh and local in NJ going forward.

With sincere gratitude,
Kim LaPrete, Baker’s Bounty
mail@bakersbounty.net

SUMMER 2024 FEATURES