Wellness

The Stress We Carry for Others

Understanding secondary traumatic stress and protecting wellbeing in an overwhelming world. Article and Photography by Hilary Russo In today’s world, it’s almost impossible to avoid the pain and suffering of others. Between the 24-hour news cycle, social media feeds that refresh every few seconds, and the reality of what’s happening in our own communities and around the world, we are constantly witnessing the distress of others. While awareness can build empathy and connection, it can also...

Life + Culture

More Than a Title

Meet the Doctor, Ballroom Dancer and Advocate Bringing Purpose to the Miss New Jersey Stage Article by Carly Mac Manus | Photography by Jessielyn Palumbo Balancing a demanding surgical residency with community advocacy and statewide competition is no small feat. For Mattie Krause, purpose is the common thread connecting every role she takes on—from the hospital floor to the Miss New Jersey stage. Krause, a first-year foot and ankle surgical resident at Hoboken University Hospital, was crowned...

Arts + Culture

Threading Hope

How Michelle Fleischer Turned Heartache Into Community With Embroidery Babes Article by Carly Mac Manus | Photography by Ivy Dash Photography Michelle Fleischer did not start Embroidery Babes with a five-year plan—she started it with a needle, a rainbow and a broken heart. “I’m a control freak,” she says candidly. “The idea of wanting something so badly and not being able to have it—and realizing there was nothing I could control—was a huge struggle for me.” Six years ago, Fleischer was...

Style + Beauty

Mother Knows Best

An elevated guide to mother-of-the-bride and groom style that look as powerful as the woman wearing it. Article by Carly Mac Manus | Photography by Michael Lago, Cenia New York After the bride, all eyes turn to her. The mother of the bride or groom holds a quiet, commanding presence on a wedding day. She is the woman who raised, guided and supported the moment now unfolding. Her look should reflect that significance: radiant, confident and unforgettable. For many women, however, finding the...

Entertainment

Learning the Game Everyone Loves

From girls’ nights to luxury retreats, the classic tile game is bringing a new generation together. Article and Photography by Allison K. Lim In Bergen County, Mah Jongg Is Having a Moment For the past two months, my group of four friends has been learning the game with instructor Carole Blancato. What once felt like a pastime of an older generation is now showing up everywhere—from living rooms to social gatherings. Today, Mah Jongg feels less like a niche hobby and more like a social...

Food + Beverage

Spicy Mango Margarita

A bright, tropical cocktail perfect for spring entertaining. Article and Photography by Carly Mac Manus Cinco de Mayo is the perfect excuse to gather with friends, enjoy vibrant flavors and celebrate the start of warmer days. With Mother’s Day arriving just after, it is also a lovely time to raise a glass to the women who make life sweeter, stronger and a lot more fun. Here in New Jersey, May signals the return of patio season, from backyard barbecues to breezy evenings down the Jersey Shore. ...

Food + Beverage

The Art of Tartare

A refined balance of richness, brightness, and texture at Covo. Article and Photography by Felix Gonzalez Covo Beef Tartare A refined take on a classic, Covo’s Beef Tartare balances richness and brightness in every bite. Hand-diced beef is layered with charred red onion marmalade and horseradish crema, then finished with fresh chives, fried capers, cured egg yolk, and pickled mustard seeds for texture and depth. Ingredients (Per Serving) 2½ ounces hand-diced beef 1 teaspoon...

Fitness

Bounce Smarter

Why Bungee Fitness Is a High-Energy, Low-Impact Investment in Your Health Article by Carly Mac Manus | Photography by Carly Mac Manus + Flyte Bungee When people think about investing in their health, they often picture long hours on treadmills or high-impact workouts that can be tough on joints. A newer training style—bungee fitness—offers a different approach: high energy, science-backed movement with reduced impact and a serious fun factor. Bungee fitness combines cardio, resistance...

Real Estate

Garden State, Golden Opportunity

Why NJ Real Estate Still Wins Article and Photography by Maryanne Elsaesser When investors evaluate strong, stable real estate markets, New Jersey consistently ranks near the top. Positioned between two of the nation’s most powerful economic centers—New York City and Philadelphia—the state offers a rare combination of location, liquidity, lifestyle appeal and long-term appreciation potential. For investors seeking durable returns, steady rental demand and resilient property values, New Jersey...

Health + Wellness

Raising Emotionally Wealthy Kids

In a High-Pressure World Article and Photography by Hilary Russo Parents invest heavily in their children’s futures. We enroll them in programs, sports and enrichment classes. We open savings accounts and college funds. We plan long term. But there is another investment many families overlook: their children’s emotional well-being. Today’s kids are operating in a near-constant state of stimulation. Their schedules are packed. Academic expectations are high. Social pressures are amplified in...