People, Features Elyse Notarianni People, Features Elyse Notarianni

Life’s Short: Finding happiness on your terms

What happens when you stop following someone else’s definition of success? Three people with South Jersey roots share how intuition, courage and unexpected choices led them to radically different lives. From Panama to St. Croix, discover inspiring stories of walking away, starting over and finding happiness on your own terms.

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Features, People Elyse Notarianni Features, People Elyse Notarianni

Power Couples

Meet South Jersey’s Power Couples – 5 influential partnerships making an impact in business, community advocacy, media, healthcare, philanthropy and public service. Discover how shared values, mutual support and a commitment to giving back help these inspiring couples amplify each other’s strengths and create meaningful change throughout their communities.

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Features, Places Elyse Notarianni Features, Places Elyse Notarianni

Junkyard Visionaries

Built from broken bottles, bricks and discarded materials, Vineland’s Palace of Depression is a South Jersey roadside attraction unlike any other. Discover the bizarre history behind George Daynor’s junkyard castle and meet the dedicated volunteers continuing a decades-long restoration to preserve its creativity, legends and unforgettable local legacy.

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Features, Places Elyse Notarianni Features, Places Elyse Notarianni

2025 Best of SJ

Celebrate the very best of South Jersey with SJ Magazine’s 2025 Best of SJ picks. From unforgettable restaurants, desserts and local flavors to unique experiences, shops and hidden gems, discover the standout businesses and destinations making life in South Jersey a little sweeter, fuller and a lot more fun.

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People, Features Elyse Notarianni People, Features Elyse Notarianni

This is Home

After ICE agents arrested Emine and Celal Emanet at their beloved South Jersey restaurant, the Jersey Kebab owners found strength in faith, family and an outpouring of community support. Their immigration journey is a powerful story of resilience, generosity, the American Dream and fighting to remain in the place they call home.

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Features Elyse Notarianni Features Elyse Notarianni

New Jersey’s Loneliness Epidemic

Loneliness is more than a feeling – it’s a growing public health crisis affecting millions of New Jersey residents. Learn how social isolation impacts physical and mental health and discover how South Jersey organizations are building meaningful connections through volunteer programs, community partnerships and innovative solutions designed to combat loneliness.

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Features Elyse Notarianni Features Elyse Notarianni

Fabulous Fall at the Shore

The Jersey Shore doesn’t slow down when summer ends. Discover the magic of fall down the Shore, from birdwatching and kayaking to historic attractions, stargazing, dog-friendly beaches, and festive events. Explore a quieter side of the Shore and find unforgettable ways to enjoy South Jersey’s coast all season long.

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Make Your Holiday Vibe Essential South Jersey

What makes South Jersey, South Jersey? From iconic foods and beloved Shore traditions to historic landmarks, hometown favorites, and unforgettable local experiences, this guide celebrates the people, places, and traditions that define the region. Discover the essential South Jersey experiences every resident should enjoy and every visitor should add to their list.

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Camden County’s Sustainability Campus Is Helping You Go Green

Going green is easier than you think. Camden County’s Sustainability Campus is helping South Jersey residents embrace eco-friendly living through community gardens, hydroponics, tool lending, bike sharing, composting, and environmental education. Discover practical, affordable ways to reduce waste, protect natural resources, and build a more sustainable future for everyone.

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Features Elyse Notarianni Features Elyse Notarianni

A New Holiday Season

After a season of distance and uncertainty, the holidays take on new meaning. This heartfelt feature explores how families are embracing simpler traditions, meaningful connections, and the joy of being together. Discover thoughtful holiday ideas, entertaining inspiration, and reminders that the best celebrations are centered on the people around the table.

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Should’ve Been a Cow(Girl)

What happens when two coworkers swap the office for the rodeo? SJ Magazine’s Elyse Notarianni and Klein Aleardi saddle up at NJ Rockin’ Ranch for horseback riding, barrel racing, and a taste of cowboy life. Their funny, firsthand adventure celebrates South Jersey’s unique attractions, Western traditions, and unforgettable outdoor experiences.

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South Jersey Bucket List

There’s no need to travel far for unforgettable adventures. From thrilling outdoor experiences and hidden gems to family-friendly attractions and quirky roadside stops, this South Jersey bucket list is packed with must-visit destinations that inspire exploration, create lasting memories, and remind you just how much there is to discover close to home.

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Swamp Monster: Elyse & Klein Head Back to (YMCA) Summer Camp

What happens when two coworkers trade their desks for a day at summer camp? SJ Magazine’s Elyse Notarianni and Klein Aleardi tackle rock climbing, high ropes, and a very muddy swamp challenge at YMCA of the Pines, discovering that adventure, teamwork, and a willingness to laugh at yourself never get old.

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Features Elyse Notarianni Features Elyse Notarianni

Shark Bait

What happens when two coworkers trade their desks for shark suits? SJ Magazine’s Elyse Notarianni and Klein Aleardi take the plunge at Adventure Aquarium, sharing a funny, behind-the-scenes look at snorkeling with sharks, facing fears, and discovering why one unforgettable South Jersey adventure was worth every nervous moment.

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People, Features Elyse Notarianni People, Features Elyse Notarianni

Where Things Grow

WWOOF is connecting volunteers with South Jersey organic farms, where they trade time and hard work for hands-on education, fresh food, and unforgettable experiences. Discover how sustainable farming, community living, and regenerative agriculture are inspiring people of all ages to reconnect with nature, learn new skills, and grow together.

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People, Features Elyse Notarianni People, Features Elyse Notarianni

2021 Women of Excellence

SJ Magazine’s 2021 Women of Excellence honors extraordinary South Jersey women whose leadership, compassion, and dedication are transforming their communities. Meet inspiring changemakers recognized for their achievements in business, education, healthcare, nonprofit work, and advocacy, proving that passion, resilience, and service create lasting impact across the region.

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The College Search and Covid-19

The college search looked very different during the COVID-19 pandemic, forcing students and families to rethink campus visits, virtual tours, and admissions decisions. South Jersey educators and college leaders share expert advice on navigating the process, evaluating schools remotely, and choosing the right college in an uncertain and rapidly changing world.

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People, Features Elyse Notarianni People, Features Elyse Notarianni

Aunt Jean’s Secret Life

What began as the responsibility of settling a distant relative’s estate became an unforgettable journey through one woman’s carefully preserved life. This touching story explores family, legacy, grief, hoarding, and the unexpected discoveries that challenge how we think about possessions, memories, and the lives we leave behind.

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Features Elyse Notarianni Features Elyse Notarianni

Comfort Foods

When life feels uncertain, comfort food brings people back to familiar flavors and cherished memories. South Jersey chefs share the dishes they turn to most—from homemade pasta and slow-cooked meals to decadent desserts—proving that cooking, family traditions, and simple recipes have the power to nourish both body and soul.

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People, Features Elyse Notarianni People, Features Elyse Notarianni

The Paradise Perspective

A South Jersey family’s long-awaited island getaway became an unexpected lesson in navigating travel during the COVID-19 pandemic. From new safety protocols and testing requirements to finding moments of peace in paradise, this firsthand account offers a thoughtful perspective on travel, resilience, and adapting to a rapidly changing world.

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