June 2020: We Stand Together (Six Feet Apart)

Those of you who are familiar with the rhythms of New Jersey Monthly know that June normally brings our annual Shore Guide. But not this year.

This year’s June issue is unique. It starts with the cover: stark, simple, and devoid of almost all headlines. Yet we think it speaks volumes. Inside the magazine, almost every page is devoted to a single subject: New Jersey’s response to the Covid-19 pandemic that has battered the state, the nation and the world.

It’s an issue like no other, for a time like no other.

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Garden Variety

What’s On Our 2020 Summer Reading List

18 books by Jersey authors we’re toting everywhere from our backyards to the beaches.

Covid-19 Sidelined Clean Ocean Action’s 2020 Beach Sweeps

Volunteers who participated in last year’s cleanups retrieved close to 500,000 items, including a car bumper, a toilet and a $6,000 diamond engagement ring.

Jersey Journalist Lifts Veil on a Changing Cuba

In his new book, Anthony DePalma reveals the extraordinary in ordinary lives.

RV Owners Eye the Highway for Summer Travel

A surge in motor homes is also expected once the Covid-19 state of emergency is lifted.

Why People of Color Face a Greater Risk of Covid-19 Fatalities

Longstanding laws, policies and zoning regulations contribute to health disparities, experts say.

A Supportive Shelter for LGBTQ Young Adults

The RAIN Foundation in East Orange offers support groups, counseling, financial-management seminars and career training.

5 Items Every Homebody Will Adore

Check out these stylish ways to engage in self-care this summer.

The House Her Instagram Followers Built

Kate Rumson’s followers weighed in when she revamped her Central Jersey townhouse. Now, they’re doing the same for her ground-up build in Monmouth County.

In the Dark: What Lies Ahead for Jersey’s Arts Institutions?

Currently shuttered due to the coronavirus, our state’s theaters, museums and cultural centers await word about reopening. Many fear long-term financial woes.

How Covid-19 Rocked Elder-Care Facilities

Around the state, the pandemic hit hardest at nursing homes and other long-term care facilities. After the headlines come the postmortems.

Terror, Triage & True Heroics: Meet Jersey’s Valiant First Responders

Our EMTs, paramedics, firefighters and law enforcement officers are facing unprecedented challenges in the wake of the coronavirus.

How Jersey Scientists Are Racing to Strike Down Covid-19

With unprecedented speed, they’re playing an essential role in a global effort.

Amid Shore Reopenings, a Tug of War for Beach Badges

Some towns have sold out their initial supply of season passes; availability of daily badges could be slim.

Covid-19 Chronicles from All Corners of the Garden State

Stories of sacrifice, service and resilience.

Covid-19 Chronicles from the Jersey Shore

Recent tales of caring, sharing and innovation.

Overlook Oncologist on the Unexpected Joys of Telemedicine

Despite some obvious downsides, meeting with patients virtually in the time of the coronavirus has been gratifying for many local doctors.

How Jersey Restaurants Are Surviving Right Now

Amid huge losses, eateries across the state continue to brace for new normals.

What Chefs Are Cooking at Home During the Coronavirus Lockdown

At home, with time on their hands and no staff to command, chefs adjust to life at the family stove. Here, seven executive chefs offer a recipe and reflections.

How Jersey’s Drinks Industry Is Adapting to the Pandemic

Alcohol producers have pivoted to hand-sanitizer production and expanded home delivery—much to customers’ relief.

What It’s Like to Fall in Love During a Pandemic

Drastic times call for drastic measures—like diving headlong into a new relationship.