Travel

Water Water Everywhere

Journey into summer with a road trip to these family favorite destinations Article by Terry Azad | Photography by As Noted Page 1 inset Lake George, widely known as the Queen of American Lakes , is 32-miles of crystal clear water surrounded by the picturesque Adirondack Mountains.  Approximately 200 miles from Union County, NJ, Lake George has become the “happy place” for many families, spanning multiple generations. While Lake George Village is a tourist destination, one needs to travel...

Travel

Explore wellness and renewal on a Canyon Ranch Retreat

Where tranquility meets tailored wellness programs to inspire balance and lifelong vitality Article by Tara Phillips “Set wide the window. Let me drink the day.” Edith Wharton’s words capture the soul-nourishing essence of a day spent at Canyon Ranch, a tranquil haven tucked into the Berkshires town of Lenox, Massachusetts. As you ascend the gravel drive, glimpses of the Bellefontaine mansion reveal the splendor of Wharton’s Gilded Age, setting the tone for your mind and body reboot. Here...

Arts + Culture

Voices of Valor

Local vets discover their musical talents and a new way to heal Article by Terry Azad | Photography by Craig Smith On the evening of February 10, 2025, ten brave combat veterans gathered in a conference room at Lyons VA Medical Center, where many of them also live.  They are from different backgrounds and generations but the bonds formed between them are clear.  Friends and family are also there, to support their loved one in their ongoing journey to heal. But, how do we heal?  That is the...

Education

The Pride of Lion Nation Athletics

Athletic Director Denise Materia retires from The Mount after 40 years Article by Michelle Daino While shopping at the old Sears department store across Route 22 in Scotch Plains, a 22-year-old Denise Materia stared up at Mount Saint Mary Academy in wonderment, her eyes full of admiration and curiosity. The building seemed to be a beacon of something new, something promising, a place full of hope.  “I was mesmerized by it,” said Denise. “I could have never imagined the path that my life would...