Life + Culture

Grateful Hearts, Wagging Tails

K9 Resorts Hillsborough’s Ongoing Commitment to Dogs in Need Article by Carly Mac Manus | Photography by Tom Solymosi When Luca Blessent first opened the doors to K9 Resorts Hillsborough, he envisioned more than just a premier boarding and daycare facility. He imagined a place where every dog — from family pets to rescues awaiting their forever homes — could feel safe, cared for, and loved. That mission has only grown stronger in the years since. Blessent, who owns the Hillsborough location...

Entertainment

A Front Row Look at the Barefoot Country Music Fest

Wildwood, NJ Article by Carly Mac Manus | Photography by David Surks Garden State City Lifestyle was grateful to have a front-row view on Wildwood’s iconic beach at the 2025 Barefoot Country Music Fest — and it did not disappoint. Held June 19–22, the four-day celebration drew thousands of fans from across the nation to sing, dance and soak in coastal vibes. Headliners included Jason Aldean, Jelly Roll, Lainey Wilson, Rascal Flatts and Jordan Davis, with more than 40 additional artists...

Life + Culture

The Man Who Said Yes

After Losing Everything, Tom O’Leary Built SHIP to Serve the People Others Forgot Article by Patti Zielinski | Photography by Thomas O'Leary In the early 1980s Tom O’Leary became homeless after he and his wife lost their jobs. Living in their pickup truck with their three children, two cats and three dogs, he sought service after service to help him, but none provided assistance. At one place, the director even told him, “I guess you think you can run things better.”  “I didn’t get mad,”...

Local Services

The Recycled Revolution Starts Here

With millions of feet of recycled paper already distributed, Tyler Simpson is on a mission to help businesses reduce waste—and save the planet. Article by Holliday Woodard | Photography by Tyler Simpson When Tyler Simpson, founder of TJA Distributors, finished an hour-long pitch to a potential manufacturer, the client asked a question he’d been hoping to avoid: “How old are you?” “I’m 18,” Simpson replied. The client was stunned—but impressed. “When I threw the age at the end, we already...