Introduction
In an effort to promote awareness of and protect New Jersey's environmental riches as well as celebrate its burgeoning green community, this blog is devoted to periodic doses of Garden State eco-inspiration. We hope you have a chance to experience some of these for yourself and certainly keep us posted of new discoveries!

6.11.08
The Garden of Joy Farmers' Market Opens June 11th

The Garden of Joy announces the opening of its FARMERS'MARKET, featuring fresh, organic fruits, vegetables, herbs, spices, eggs, fresh baked breads, biscotti and other treats, including authentic JAMAICAN BLUE MOUNTAIN COFFEE directly from the mountains of Mavis Bank, potted plants, and special features each month!

HOURS
Wednesdays & Fridays: 1-7 pm
Saturdays: 2-6 pm

LOCATION
THE GARDEN MARKETPLACE
519 Bangs Avenue
Asbury Park, NJ
(732)502-9760
www.thegardenofjoy.org

The Chamber of Commerce Farmers Market also opens in June.

HOURS
Saturdays: 9-2 pm

LOCATION
Corner of Main Street & Sunset Ave
Asbury Park, NJ

SERVICES FOR SENIORS
The Garden of Joy will also provide a "mobile" farmers market to senior residences and the day care center for seniors that can't make it to their stands.

The Garden of Joy, division of HANDS TO HELP, INC., a
501c3 company.

4.4.08
SPONSOR A GARDEN…NURTURE A CHILD

The Garden of Joy is a treasure in Monmouth County. Initiated by Patricia Betty, this not-for-profit enhances the lives of inner city school children and their communities, particularly in Asbury Park, through the creation of kitchen gardens and urban farms. These cultivated green spaces serve as sanctuaries, nutritional sources, inspiration, and living education labs for those that labor lovingly in their soil. Working in the gardens, children, (and adults) from participating schools, churches and municipalities gain hands-on experience in cooperation, plant science, organic farming techniques and even cooking. Moreover they come away with a new-found sense of wonder and joy.

Sponsor a Garden bed containing vegetables/fruit/herbs or flowers in a child's name for $50 or stop by The Garden Marketplace in Asbury Park to find unique gifts for your home and garden. A portion of all sale proceeds directly benefit the Garden of Joy.

Visit The Garden of Joy Website

The Garden Marketplace
519 Bangs Avenue (off Cookman),
Asbury Park, N.J. 07712
732-502-9760
info@thegardenofjoy.org

1.23.08
ART FROM TRASH! OUR FAVORITE ECO-ARTISTS…
New Jersey is home to some excellent, dedicated eco-artists. Check out two of our favorites: Lisa Bagwell (sculptures, mobiles and household objects) and JaK Random Art & Design (notebooks, jewelry and coasters). The shell-piece shown above is Lisa's creation from trash collected in one day along Sandy Hook Beach. Participate in one of Clean Ocean Action's Beach Sweeps to keep our shores clean. Below are JaK's cuffs and coasters made from vinyl records!