NJGREATS & ECO CONNECTING SMALL BUSINESSES AROUND THE GLOBE

Small Business Networking

I have been a life long resident of the great state of New Jersey. Just enough metropolitan to border the fast paced Manhattan work force, with a little farm land and beach front. I was raised by a small business man and I married one, watched many folks dig roots here, raise their families and instill an amazing work ethic and a pride for what this country is founded on.  New Jersey small business folks are tough, loyal and as one of the original melting pots of this country have a rich cultural lineage, and if you search deep enough, you find some how we all are connected. Located in the hub of the Tri State area, New Jersey has great international potential as well. Entrepreneur excellence is available in this, “small in size, but giant in potential” state.

 NJGreats

The mission of NJGreats is to profile some great small businesses and start ups and use the power of social media to network and grow business. Many start-ups here are new to social media. NJGreats is a platform to grow your business’ social media presence, linking not only blog posts, tweets and facebook activity, but the opportunity to connect with entrepreneurs across the state, through out the country and internationally as well. The spirit of capitalism is alive and well in New Jersey and NJGreats highlights all that put their hands to the plow, have a story to tell and a legacy to leave.

ECO

Entrepreneur Community Online fuels the passion behind NJgreats and what makes me tick. I love the professional learning atmosphere. The information is readily available as well as the access to some of the greatest entrepreneur minds of our time. The webinars are interactive and jammed with great, practical tools and priceless information. ECO is a place for Entrepreneurs to connect, conceive and create their passions.

Business Name

NJ greats

Website Address

www.njgreats.blogspot.com

Email Address

Lgsica99@verizon.net

Twitter

www.twitter.com/lorisica

www.twitter.com/njgreats

LinkedIn Profile

www.linkedin.com/in/LoriSica

ECO

www.entrepreneurcommunityonline

A FEW OF MY FAVORITE THINGS

While I’m a little to old to make a list for Santa, I am not too old to share some of the things I find, that brighten the day. During this shopping crazed holiday season, be sure to check out some of these great things, because the people behind them are extraordinary.

ROCKnJOE POINT PLEASANT BEACH

It is no secret that coffee is on the top of my list. In a non-caffeine addicted way, I just love it, the taste the smell, the process from bean to cup, even the thought of making it or going out for it. And there is no better place than RocknJoe's. One of the first ever NJgreats blogs detailed just how great this place is, from the rock and roll memorabilia to the excellent coffee offerings. But what makes the place, besides the fact that it is yards from the ocean is Dave Terra Nova. He is a native of the Jersey Shore and knows just about everybody and everything about it. He is constantly supporting charities and local businesses and all around is a great guy.

GIA SKIN CARE STRAWBERRY SKIN POLISH

While there are endless choices for skin care on the market today, Gia stands out as one of the most natural and effective lines I have come across in years. Gia brings 25 years of experience together with only the best ingredients to this line, and is beautiful both inside and out. Strawberry skin polish goes on very smooth and creamy, not gritty. The smell of fresh strawberries is invigorating and after you rinse, you are left with a soft lasting beautiful glow. A definite stocking stuffer, and my latest “can’t live with out” product. Be sure to look for an “Across the Border Greats” post coming soon.

BASKETS AND BEYOND

Michelle is a gem of a woman, making the trip to Dumont worth it!  Her baskets are always full of wondrous treats  made to order and aim to please. Her site is shop and ship friendly and your gift giving is made easy. I highly recommend following her on Twitter. She is always doing something charitable and tweetin’ about it. She supports a local scholarship fund and puts her hand to the plow in so many selfless ways. I am such a fan, she is truly an “NJGreat” and I can’t wait to write about her.

LULU BELLE’S LITTLE TREASURES

Lauren and her amazing collection of vintage accessories was just featured on NJGreats.

Her pieces are so unique and her personal story will move you. Find her on Etsy and at the Health Shoppe in Morristown a few days a week. Her treasure trove includes such lines as Joolz Hayworth and Jillery. We LOVE her newest collaborative effort with Noel Grabow; vintage leather watchbands worn alone or adorned with a fabulous jewel. Hoping my stocking is stuffed with those!

LATHER AND LACE

The tag line says it all “Mae West meets Martha Stewart” This amazing collection of soaps, skin care, jewelry and accessories is one of a kind. Each product from the bath and body line moisturizes you clean and blended with essential oils, which keep you scented beautifully all day, and in most cases, you and the room you dress in. You must check the website for her amazing list of scents. The current favorite product from this great line is “whipped into a lather”. It’s a creamy whipped soap,that lathers up fast and leaves your skin feeling clean and super soft. There is nothing like it and life is not the same with out it. Coming soon, my interview with the AwesomeLori Abercrombie and her story of beading on a military plane!!!

FICKLETS

This is one of the most innovative ideas I have come across on the web. Ficklets are accessories for your eyeglasses.  They make wearing glasses fun and fashionable, and most importantly, they take the stigma away from looking and feeling “different” because of wearing glasses. Wish these were around when my twin girls were younger. The Guerrero’s came up with the idea for their amazing daughter Gem. They are a hit with young folks adorning eye wear. Follow NJGreats to read more about Ros and her super invention…and her beautiful heart.

JERSEY SHORE BRACELET

Another early post on NJGreats featured this beautiful piece of Jewelry inspired by the  hashmarks made by the wind on the sand of the great New Jersey coast. The vision of Anthony andKatie Marsala is beautifully created in gold, silver or a combination of both.

And, after meeting them, loving their creation and sharing a great cup of coffee at ….YOU KNOW WHERE…I saw how big their hearts were. That month a percentage of sales went to support Covenant House New Jersey. A few months later they donated to victims of the notorious hurricane Irene, that ripped through the Garden State. This a great gift to give any time of year, and most likely, it will keep on giving.

EYEDEWS

I am totally hooked on this product. It is literally is a spa for your eyes. There is no product on the market quite like it. In a sealed tray are two crescent shaped gel forms, drenched in moisture to be applied just below the eye. In 15 minutes the skin around the eye is hydrated fresh all day. For a cool shot, store them in the fridge, or for a double shot, put them on before entering the shower. Check out my write up on them in In With Skin magazine.

TWITTER

By far, one of my most favorite things has to be Twitter. With out it, this blog would not exist,I wouldn’t know most of these amazing folks. I would not have developed social media skills as Twitter has given me the opportunity to learn from the best from around the world. I am truly grateful for the following folks and chats that made NJGreats what it is today, and what it has the potential to be tomorrow….Amy Howell @HowellMarketing@DabneyPorte  I could write forever about her and her communities of fabulousness  #smmanners #smgirlfriends #slumberparty, @Adamsconsulting, the awesome Diana Adams, Bitrebels.com, @BrunoLoGreco #askthecoach  @iempoweru Linda Hughes #ECOEntrepreneurcommunityonline.com @modlandUSA Gerry Wendel  @Lipingfeng #cmchat @melissaonline and many many more.

I FOUND A TREASURE

One of the places I frequent is the Health Shoppe in Morristown, a pillar of the city, and hopefully, a future NJ Greats profile. While shopping for organic and gluten free treats, I found a table of the most interesting and beautiful jewelry.  I was greeted warmly as I could not take my eyes off earrings fabulous bracelets, gold and silver blends (love mixed metals) and great fabrics.  Many pieces had a vintage flair. I had to ask more.

Lauren Cohen introduces herself, family owns the Health Shoppe and she owns Lulu Belle’s Little Treasures. The name intrigued me. I commented on the uniqueness of the pieces. She detailed each designer. I loved the each story. But, by far, Lauren’s is the best. Growing up, one of her favorite things was her grandmother’s jewelry box. She would spend her time admiring and modeling all of her treasures. Little did she know right there, she was scripting her future. Educated in the mental health field, Lauren decided to follow her passion, and after just a few minutes with her and the collection, its evident she made the right decision.

One collection that caught my eye was Joolz Hayworth, out of California. The large bracelets with multiple-panel designs were so unique. Lauren commented that they draw compliments. The blue caught my eye and I made a purchase, along with some resin earrings for my daughters and a beautiful necklace.

                                   

 Her mixed metals line, Jillery by Jill Fagin is New York City based and made completely out of recycled gold and silver aluminum. The pieces are very light weight, yet carry heavy impact. They never tarnish, are hypoallergenic, and are reasonably priced. I helped myself to a great pair of earrings. I soon learned of Laurens talent in design and eye for style. She showed me her latest treasure, a collaborative effort with jeweler Noel Grabow. Gorgeous vintage leather watches bands that can be sold solo or adorned with jewels.

 I love them, so different and trendy.

She also let me in on a new spiritual based line, “Mali and Michelle”, she will be adding to her collection. This line includes beautiful hamsehs, evil eyes, and vivid floral pieces. Lauren was particularly moved by this line.

 If you are wondering where to find these amazing Treasures, Lauren will be doing two shows this holiday season. The first is this Friday, November 25 at The Health Shoppe in Morristown from 11-7, with a special 10% off of all purchases. The second is November 29^th at Temple B’nai Jeshurun in Short Hills from 9-6.  Please check out her beautiful creations. She is also at the Health Shoppe Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays.  Lauren is also available to do private in-home parties. She is flexible and will tailor make the theme to suit not only the hostess, but the guest’s needs. Oh and by the way, she was right. EVERY time I wear the Joolz Hayworth bracelet, I get tons of compliments.

Lulubellejewel@gmail.com

Visit her Etsy store

5050 BURPEES IN 100 DAYS...WHY I DID IT& WHAT I LEARNED FROM IT

WHY I DID IT

I really had no idea what I was getting into back in August. I was reading Pam Kramer; @pamelmkramer, tweeting  about a burpee challenge. It sounded fun, and, after finding out in January that I have some cartilage issues in my hip, what better way to strengthen the hip flexors and prove the doctors wrong; that I can in fact train like I want to.

My fitness regime was stalled. One doctor told me to stop all activity and my trainer said she wouldn’t come near me until I got some rehab. I already lost strength and shape, so what else could I possibly have to lose. And it was only 100 days.

After tweeting with @pamelamkramer about different crossfit work outs, I have come to respect her and figured, if she’s got something to do with this, then I want something to do with it. So I did.

WHAT I LEARNED FROM IT

By day 60, my shoulders, triceps and trapezius muscles had toned nicely, my posture improved. By day 80, I was leaner, and was able to do more burpees in less time. However, I did stop all weight training as soreness every night was tough, and I wanted to be ready every morning to hit it. It had become clear that body weight training was not only convenient, it was effective.

About the same time, I learned that to complete the challenge, I had to do 100 burpees consecutively, record myself doing them and post it to the web. Right then and there, I considered dropping out. I was doing burpees as a circuit, maybe 10-15 at a time, along with abdominal work, steps, medicine ball reps; didn’t think I could bang them out at once. Then, to post it, publicly, oh I could never do that. I over came that fear ( along with some tech support from my son), and day 100 I completed 100 burpees in 19 minutes and 28 seconds; my fastest recorded time. The athlete in me still thrives, and the competitive spirit flows in my blood. For the record, I turned 42 days before day 100 and thought it would be a great way to mark the milestone. Some go out to celebrate, party, indulge. I did 100 burpees.

But by far, what had the greatest impact on me was that discipline and determination that still drives me. Many times in the past, when someone told me I couldn’t do something, I just didn’t. Realizing my potential, at a deficit, and a bit older, and a long way from the world of competition,  has a lot more meaning than when I was in high school or college. Now my kids are watching. More is caught, than taught, and if one of them understands what I did, it was well worth it.

Thank you Pam, Amanda @beeacutie2 and Sara @mamasarahjane. Your friendship and support made this such an adventure.

Special thank you to my kids, I could not have done this with out you, and it was fun when I got to do it with you!

To my husband, you are a daily example of strength and determination; you inspire me; you are my hero.

On to the next challenge.

LUXURY LIVING IN NEW JERSEY

Imagine a luxury hotel, top accommodations, decorated to your taste, breakfast and newspaper waiting for you after a workout in a top facility, a boardroom available for all media and corporate needs, and a concierge at your service. Now, imagine if this was the place you call home. It is not a dream it is the reality of AVE.  Located on Morris Avenue in Union, AVE is a beautiful customized residential community, an alternative to extended hotel stays or short term apartment living. And we had an opportunity to check out this amazing place.

Walking into the lobby, I was promptly greeted and invited to wait in a brightly decorated common area. Coffee and newspapers were available along with a beautiful view of the courtyard, complete with pool fire pit, patio and lush greenery. Wait, was I really on Morris Avenue??

Shortly after, I had the privilege of meeting Tracy Casale, Senior Resident Representative and Marketing Director Amy Barricelli. They explained the theory behind AVE, the client base they serve and the endless accommodations they provide. The concept is brilliant. As we spoke, a young woman with two children stopped in for a fresh cup of coffee and a quick hello. I was told they were an international family staying while Dad trains for a new job. Tracy explained that they were not only greeted upon their very long trip to the US, their suite was filled with groceries, and a list of schools and churches were provided to help them acclimate quickly. Having a great relationship with the local Chamber of Commerce, Tracy can access a wealth of information to make her guests feel more at home, than away.

They also cater to the part-time resident, who may reside else where. AVE not only provides custom accommodations but upkeep of such in the client’s absence. Everything from designed closet organizers to maintained parking and security system, maps and connections to all local entertainment, restaurants, transportation and events is available and made convenient at AVE. They also host several in house events, including pot-luck dinners and movie nights, both in and outdoors.

Next, I was treated to a tour. The layout of the suite was just perfect. Beautifully decorated, this particular one was done in dark wood an earth tones, each bedroom had a spacious full bathroom attached, granite counter tops in the kitchen, washer & dryer located just off the bedrooms and a spacious living area with a nice view of the courtyard. While discussing the concierge services, my mind went back to a condominium community I had stayed in recently in Colorado. The deal was sealed, definitely not on Morris Avenue anymore, even Toto knew it

I highly recommend visiting AVE. Tracy and the staff are not only making folks feel at home, they are making a difference in their lives.

AVE 

1070 Morris Avenue

Union, NJ 07083

877 AVE 0246

THERE IS NO PLACE ON EARTH QUITE LIKE THE JERSEY SHORE

 Well, we just got home from a weekend at the Jersey Shore. Seeing how different the beach is since Hurricane Irene blew in, I have decided to honor one of my favorite places, highlighting  a book that makes going to the beach, going “down the shore”.

Laura Scarpa Toombs has written a great little book called “Beach Rules”. After spending 48 summers at the Jersey shore; summers filled with conversations, observations and proclamations, she is an expert on beach behavior. Not to mention, royalty in my eyes as her family owned and operated Playland, located on the corners of Haddonfield and Brynmawr Aves in Lavallette ( but we are saving that great story for another post).  Having witnessed everything from people in alcoholic stupors, locals fighting with folks “not from here”, to being chased down the beach at plastic- knife point, she was asked by good friend Lisa Visconti “Why don’t you write a book ?”   So, she did.

Beach Rules is a quick run down of the do’s and don’t of beach etiquette, laced with humor, a touch of sarcasm and a healthy dose of truth. I  am of a “certain age” as she describes in the book and can totally  relate to just about everything she says, including the empty ride home, from exit 98 back up north to exit 145 ( sadly until I was 15 I usually cried most of the way).

Aside from advice not to feed the seagulls or the reality of personal grooming in the surf, Laura really hits home with the unspoken connections of shore friends and the freedom of an outside shower ( have to use one to experience this, there are no words).  She makes it clear that real Jersey shore folks are nothing like what is portrayed in reality TV, but mistake not the “vibe” that is only given off in this community. Along with Playland, Laura’s family also made famous, the Sugar Shack in Ortley Beach and Fred’s Peds, a moped rental; absolute Jersey shore gold standard.

Please don’t be put off if you have never visited this part of the shore, or if coastal living is not your idea of paradise. This book is really about people. People who make up a community,  the bonds of friendship and the activities and events that make up a life time of memories, some so vivid and real that when one brings up the juke box at Playland, with out missing a beat, Laura can tell you that B6 was the song “Good Lovin Gone Bad” by Bad Company.

I really enjoyed reminiscing summers that have gone by, laughing about things and realizing just how small the world is, when you spend your summers “down the shore”.

Please take a minute and visit Laura’s Facebook page and most importantly, read the book. It is a quick uplifting read guaranteed to please.

Beach Rules is available at Amazon.com

Beach Rules on Facebook

REMEMBERING SEPTEMBER 11TH

I chose to write this to honor those who gave their lives on a day that changed our country forever.

While there are great holes left in so many lives, and great sadness in many hearts, there is a message of hope left behind in the ashes of that September day.

The visual memory of the flag flying, reminiscent of soldiers who gave their lives to fight for freedom in the wars of our country's history brings tears to my eyes, every time I see it; our flag will fly proudly.

The hundreds of firemen, police, rescue workers and volunteers who selflessly ran into the hull of danger, while thousands were running out; we are the home of the brave.

The incredible fearless passengers on flight 93, successfully thwarting an evil plot, again selflessly giving their lives to save others; everyone of them a hero.

Hospitals make shift triage centers grief counselors and shelters opened their doors to help anyone on that day and days to follow to find answers; we are the land of the free.

Thousands of churches and worship centers gathered all who needed relief and prayed and ministered to so many; God blesses America

Seeing this country come together, hearing folks singing our nations anthem, saluting the flag proudly, supporting our military and genuinely caring for others is so inspirational. I am proud to be an American and to have the privilege to raise a family here.

I love and pray for those that defend this nation and stare down the enemy every day so my kids can lay their heads on their pillows and sleep safe every night.

I will always look back on September 11^th as a day that changed our nation forever, but I will continue to look forward to the stories of hope that still rise from the ashes from that day.

Please listen to this beautiful song a beautiful person shared with me recently. I believe it captures this sentiment.

Gungor Beautiful Things

 http://youtu.be/OR7VOKQ0xJY