What’s romantic to you? For Hammonton’s Grace and Thomas Hind, there’s a quiet kind of romance that comes with cooking as a couple. They like to shop for groceries at the Italian market Bagliani’s and make a meal together in their new home.
Rather than offering a single definition of romance, Jennifer Amato spoke with locals — and people deeply connected to Hammonton — to gather their favorite date ideas in honor of Valentine’s Day. What emerged is a collection of outings that ranged from the unexpected and sweet to old-fashioned and traditional. There’s something here for everyone.
I was especially drawn to the stories of two couples — the Hinds and Samantha and Domenick Guarnaccia — who each got married a little over a year ago, which makes them newlyweds, according to some definitions of the term. The photos of Grace and Thomas that accompany the story show that adoring look of love.
Whether you’re shopping for a gift for a significant other or anyone else, you might want to visit Emporium on Central, a space that showcases the wares of local crafters and antique dealers. “I find that people use it as a one-stop shop and gift store to purchase one-of-a-kind items,” says Patty Hydock, the owner and operator. The Emporium is convenient for vendors and crafters who rent a booth within it: According to Hydock, it allows them to run “a small shop for a reasonable price without too much overhead.”
And in our schools, love of craft can shape who we become. I studied Suzuki violin from the age of four through my teens, so I know firsthand the creativity and discipline that learning an instrument can ignite. In this issue, Debra Wallace explores Hammonton’s transformative strings program and explores the lasting benefits — neurological and otherwise — of putting a violin, viola, cello, bass, or classical guitar into a child’s hands. Learning an instrument is a “wholesome and fulfilling interest that doesn’t involve a screen,” as school board member Kelli Fallon says. For 2024 Hammonton High School graduate Tristan Rodriguez, music was his version of sports: a source of connection, confidence, and community.
These stories are about love, care, and artistry. I hope you enjoy them.
