January 2026 SOCO Magazine

JANUARY 2026

SOCOMAGAZINE.COM

WE ARE THE SOUTH COAST

Est.

MILBURY & COMPANY www.MilburyRE.com

1980

Local Knowledge with a World of Experience

NE

MATTAPOISETT $1,325,000

Located in the Bay Club, a gated golf and country club community, this three-bedroom, 2.5-bathroom Executive Ranch home is only two years young and boasts many upgrades. Contact Sarah Korolnek 774.644.9156 or Gillian Barnard 617.799.3917.

R DE CT N U RA NT O C

L

G NE

SOUTH DARTMOUTH $1,995,000 Extraordinary 12.3 acre estate-like property bounded by ancient stone walls, offers a charming, 3,000 s.f., three-bedroom, 2.5 bath shingled Cape home with spectacular three-story barn.

Contact Will Milbury 508.525.5200

Set on high, overlooking Red Brook Harbor, Bassetts Island and Scraggy Neck, this contemporary home, understated upon approach, offers three bedrooms, four baths, stunning views from most every room and striking sunsets from the wrap-around deck. Contact Will Milbury 508.525.5200

IN

G

This one level residence offers three bedrooms, two full baths, family room with gas fireplace, formal dining and living with fireplace, as well as two-car detached garage, Contact Linda Hopps 965.9274

NE

SOUTH DARTMOUTH $1,195,000 Quintessential New England Cape in the Heart of Padanaram Village! Three bedrooms, two baths, two-car detached garage and more!

Contact Sarah Meehan 58.685.8926

W

T LIS

SOUTH DARTMOUTH $925,000

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ROUND HILL SEASIDE EAST $2,495,000 Rarely available! Direct waterfront, threebedroom, two-bath home with private pathway to white, sandy beach. Contact Will Milbury 508.525.5200 or Sarah Meehan 508.685.8926

CATAUMET $2,945,000

W

IN IST

T LIS

IN

G

SOUTH DARTMOUTH $529,000

This sun-filled 3-bedroom, 1-bath ranch offers custom charm just minutes from Padanaram village and local beaches.

Contact Bethany Mello 508.858.8313

FAIRHAVEN $849,000

Set along the shores of Buzzard's Bay, this charming coastal cottage offers dramatic water views from ‘most every room. Minutes from Fort Phoenix, bike path, beaches and shopping.

Contact Will Milbury at 508.525.5200.

P A D A N A R A M

304 Elm Street So. Dartmouth, MA 02748

508.997.7400

W E S T P O R T

790 Main Road Westport, MA 02790

508.636.2400

WE ARE THE SOUTH COAST

MILBURY & COMPANY

Est.

U

E ND

RC

T ON

www.MilburyRE.com

RA

CT

SOUTH DARTMOUTH $1,495,000

This newly constructed, luxury home is nestled down a professionally landscaped, private drive just minutes away from local beaches and Padanaram Village/Harbor. Contact Gillian Barnard 617.

799.3917 or Sarah Korolnek 774.644.9156

LITTLE COMPTON $600,000

WESTPORT $515,000

Over twenty acres on TWO LOTS of wooded land toward the south end of Long Highway (before the bend headed south). The beaches are a few minute's drive and (the commons) is a few minutes' drive.

Contact Tom Chace 401.965.3259

Two bedroom, two-bath condominium unit in “The Cottages - an over 55 community. Enjoy single-level living with cathedral ceiling, open concept floor plan and two-car garage.

Contact Tom Chace 401.965.3259

R T DE UN RAC T N CO

SEASIDE EAST $2,495,000

Rarely available! Direct waterfront, three-bedroom, two-bath home with private pathway to white, sandy beach. Contact Will Milbury 508.525.5200 or Sarah Meehan 508.685.8926

NE

W

T LIS

1980

R T DE UN RAC T N CO

SOUTH DARTMOUTH LAND $550,000

Rare opportunity to build your dream home within just a short walk to Padanaram Village! Deeded beach to Stoneledge Beach!

Contact Alice Petersen 508.965.6938

ING

SOUTH DARTMOUTH $1,095,000

NE

Quintessential New England Cape in the Heart of Padanaram Village! Updated kitchen, three bedrooms, two baths, two-car detached garage, meticulous grounds with patio, finished basement and so much more!

Contact Sarah Meehan 58.685.8926

W

T LIS

IN

SOUTH DARTMOUTH $1,795,000 Enjoy oceanfront living in this three-bedroom, one-bath cottage with an unparalleled white sandy beach & breathtaking ocean views.

Contact Will Milbury 508-525-5200

G

SOUTH DARTMOUTH $959,000 Experience refined coastal living in this beautifully updated Hidden Bay end unit condominium overlooking Clarks Cove. Features include three bedrooms, 3.5 baths and wraparound composite deck.

Contact Sarah Meehan 508.685.8926

P A D A N A R A M

304 Elm Street So. Dartmouth, MA 02748

508.997.7400

W E S T P O R T

790 Main Road Westport, MA 02790

508.636.2400

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Newport Is Open, And The Excitement Is Just Beginning Immigrant Rights: Where Truth Lies Within The Constitution How The Industrial Age Built The Gilded Age, Technology Is Giving Birth To The Golden Age

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THE BEST FROM NEWPORT TO LONG ISLAND

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WHILE AVOIDING TRAPS THAT PREDICT FAILURE

Reflections And The Acceptance Of Change

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LAYING OUT A PATHWAY TO ACHIEVEMENT

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Learn How To Be Unstoppable & Think For Yourself

[ THE SECRETS OF SUCCESS ]

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JULY TOPICS INCLUDE TRUTH, WELLNESS, MONEY & LOVE

JULY 2025

Starlight Socials, Enchanting Soirees, Grand Galas & Opulent Balls—And That’s Just In Newport

Next Stop, It’s Long Island For The Hampton Classic — The Equestrian Event Of The Summer

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You Got This!

THE GOLDEN ERA IS HERE— COMPLIMENTS OF AI

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With Each New Year Comes Pleasant Memories Coupled With New Experiences

Like It Or Not

AN UPDATE ON SUMMER TRAVEL BY ROAD, RAIL, BIRD & BOAT

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Highlights From Safe Harbor Newport Shipyard’s Superyacht Charter Show

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Simplifying The Holidays

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Leaders Build Themselves—Not Their Image

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JANUARY 2026

Sliding Into 2026

What’s Your Excuse For Not Trying To Meet Those Hidden Dreams & Desires?

SEPTEMBER 2025

INSPIRING EXAMPLES WHEN WE NEED IT THE MOST SERENA WILLIAMS & MARIA SHARAPOVA RECAST THE ESSENCE OF ADMIRATION & RESPECT

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BEYOND VALIDATION:

“Damn It, He’s Late Every Year— No One’s That Busy!”

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DEFIANT &

UNSTOPPABLE

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We Look Forward To The Mysteries Of 2026 Unfolding

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OCTOBER 2025

HAPPY HOLIDAYS FROM THE OVERWORKED & IMPATIENT

“Don’t Worry Patsey; He’ll Be Here Soon”

Yacht Hops & Air Kisses

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IS AI CREATING AN ARTIFICIAL EXISTENCE?

Day Tripping To And From ‘The Hub’

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DETERMINATION

Change Is Taking Over The SouthCoast

AUGUST 2025

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THE MINDSET OF ACHIEVERS

SEPTEMBER 2025

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Happy Chanukah Chag urim sameach!

Welcome Aboard

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UNSURE ABOUT THE NEW YEAR? THROW PARTIES!

WISHING OUR FRIENDS NEAR & FAR PEACE, HERE & THERE

AI HAS CHANGED EVERYTHING

SHARAPOVA

NOVEMBER 2025

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2026

Maria

ARE YOU READY FOR THIS?

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OF DEFYING EXPECTATIONS

BY TURNING FEAR INTO SUCCESS

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THE POWER

From The SouthCoast As We Celebrate The Holidays In All 37 Time Zones

DETERMINED, TALENTED, & BEAUTIFUL, SHE SETS THE BAR TO MEASURE SUCCESS

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— rise without permission —

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MERRY CHRISTMAS

THIS MONTH:

STRATEGIES FOR LIFE, LOVE & FINANCES

THE INTERNATIONAL TENNIS HALL OF FAME’S 2025 INDUCTION OF LEGENDS AND STARS

The Summer’s Heating Up, So Why Are Travelers Cutting Back?

Health And Your Wealth Which Supplements Work And Those That Don’t

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4 | JANUARY 2026 | NEW ENGLAND NEWS + MEDIA

| DOSSIER |

A NOT-SO MERRY CHRISTMAS, AND A QUESTIONABLE NEW YEAR— IT’S TIME TO FACE FACTS

O A C-SUITE PERSPECTIVE

ur covers are bright and optimistic, even sentimental and fun—that’s the goal— but beneath the gloss and bright colors, we are a Nation under strain, where incompetence, ideology, and political pressure collide. Some would prefer we hide the obvious, often ignored by a ‘lowinformational’ public, who would rather pretend all is well, when in fact we are on the cusp of increasingly greater violence and fraud, once viewed from a distance.

We’ve heard, “You’re not the New York Times, an indication that we should shut our mouths and suck up the hate and hostility surrounding all of us. But, how can we, when for 20-plus years, we’ve documented the events and experiences that shape us all, with the intention of being present in the realm of reality—something ‘The Gray Lady’ should attempt. To be clear, we aren’t looking to influence but rather to show a timeline and decipher why the public allows itself to be mistreated.

There is a sense, hard to quantify but impossible to ignore, that the fabric of the United States is being stretched beyond its tolerance. Not torn cleanly in one dramatic moment, but frayed slowly, thread by thread, by a combination of violence, mismanagement, ideological rigidity, and pressures that do not originate solely from within our borders. The result is a country increasingly anxious, divided, and distrustful of the very systems meant to sustain it.

Recent acts of violence underscore this unease. A shooting at Brown University, on Providence’s tony ‘Upper East Side’, shocks,

not only because of the setting—an institution meant to symbolize learning and enlightenment—but because it reinforces a grim normalization of chaos and violence.

Abroad, the hateful antisemitic mass killing in Australia serves as a reminder that instability is not uniquely American; it mirrors a global pattern of social fracture.

Here at home, at Boston’s North Station, a 60-year-old woman was thrown onto the tracks, which ostensibly was to cause lifethreatening harm, including death; yet, suspect Nyleamah Tinnell Kinsey was charged with assault and battery with a dangerous weapon on a person 60 or older, and disorderly conduct. Are you kidding? What happened to attempted premeditated murder?

And let’s not ignore the horrific butchering of a 23-year-old Ukrainian refugee, Iryna Zarutska, on a train in Charlotte, North Carolina, by a career criminal by the name of Decarlos Brown Jr. In this case, THERE IS A a murder charge was filed, but questions SENSE, HARD remain as to whether he will plead to TO QUANTIFY incompetency and be cared for the rest BUT IMPOSSIBLE of his life.

TO IGNORE, The silence from the ‘feel-good’ media THAT THE is deafening; it is often swept aside FABRIC OF after the shocking details come to light.

THE UNITED Nevertheless, ordinary citizens are under STATES IS BEING massive surveillance, turning a simple STRETCHED commute or walk into an exercise in vigilance: This is not what a free society BEYOND ITS is supposed to look like.

TOLERANCE. NEW ENGLAND NEWS + MEDIA | JANUARY 2026 | 5

These are not isolated incidents; they are symptoms of a broader failure to maintain social order and public confidence.

Layered atop physical violence is systemic economic abuse.

The political class trading stocks and getting rich on insider information, along with Minnesota’s headlines regarding a federal investigation over its welfare programs designed with minimal oversight, metastasizing into vast, interconnected fraud schemes, shielded by accusations meant to silence scrutiny and paid for by taxpayers. From housing assistance to food programs to autism services, billions were drained through fictitious providers, layered scams, and informal money networks—exposing not isolated failures, but a collapse of accountability.

Consider Massachusetts, often held up as a model of progressive governance and administrative competence. Yet proposed changes to the state’s excise tax will land hardest on seniors and low-income residents—precisely the groups policymakers claim to protect. The tax was introduced with promises of fairness and improvement, but for many, it will mean higher costs with no corresponding benefit.

That disconnect between rhetoric and reality is not unique to one state, but Massachusetts illustrates how policy failures can occur even where expertise is presumed to be abundant.

At the same time, the state has spent billions of dollars housing non-citizens, often with minimal transparency and little public debate. Reasonable people can disagree on immigration policy, humanitarian obligations, and border enforcement. What is harder to defend is the absence of accountability and planning.

When working families struggle to afford housing, healthcare, and heating, being told that resources are limitless for some but scarce for others breeds resentment—not because Americans lack compassion, but because fairness appears selectively applied.

Is this all purposeful? That question lingers in the background, uncomfortable and unresolved. It would be easy, and perhaps

5

THOUGHTS FROM THE C-SUITE

Confront violence honestly, punish fraud equally, and reject selective outrage. The damage may be exploited from abroad, but fixing it—and preserving our freedom—is on us.

6 | JANUARY 2026 | NEW ENGLAND NEWS + MEDIA

emotionally satisfying, to believe that the damage is entirely intentional—planned by hostile actors abroad and enabled by sympathetic ideologues at home. There is no doubt that foreign adversaries seek to exploit American divisions through disinformation, cyber operations, and cultural manipulation.

History and intelligence assessments make that clear. But attributing every failure to a grand design risks obscuring a straightforward and more troubling truth. Institutions that once functioned reasonably well are now bloated, risk-averse, and ideologically captured. Decision-makers are often insulated from the consequences of their choices, rewarded for signaling virtue rather than producing results. Bureaucracies expand while accountability contracts. Problems are studied, renamed, and re-framed, but rarely solved. Meanwhile, citizens who point out obvious flaws are dismissed as uninformed, hateful, or resistant to progress.

Conformity to social and cultural standards isn’t a sign of competence; it’s the currency of advancement.

The road ahead is undeniably challenging. Trust in institutions is eroding, and rebuilding it will require more than slogans or emergency legislation. It will take leaders willing to admit failure, to prioritize outcomes over party, and to treat citizens as stakeholders rather than obstacles. Violence must be confronted without euphemism, fraud without favoritism, and prejudice without selective outrage.

We have faced internal strain before and recovered not through denial or scapegoating, but by grounding ourselves in realism and shared responsibility. Whether the current damage is exacerbated by hostile forces abroad or merely enabled by them, the responsibility for repair rests at home. The question remains whether we still have the will—and the competence—before we fall into a statesponsored existence because we gambled away our freedom. H

14

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IMPRESSIONS

Ugly bugs say more about us than them.

CAPITAL

Many Gen-Zers are embracing long-term ownership, self-reliance, and strategic investing as a response to high costs, weak safety nets, and an unpredictable retirement landscape.

25

RENEWAL

The New Year opens like a clean page— inviting us to begin again, not only for ourselves, but for one another. Wishing you a Happy New Year from New England News + Media.

NEW ENGLAND NEWS + MEDIA | JANUARY 2026 | 7

28

HEALTH

Explore how women develop a quiet, embodied intelligence—rooted in intuition, experience, and collective care—to navigate a world that still demands vigilance. Women call for cultural and structural change so safety becomes a baseline right, not a daily negotiation.

32

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IN THE NEWS BayCoast Bank’s Troy Street mainstay Doug Toupin has earned the Alves Award, honoring his exceptional service and uplifting impact on the SouthCoast community. A BayCoast team member since 2009, Toupin was also presented with a Certificate of Distinction celebrating his dedication, spirit, and the warm welcome he gives customers every day.

8 | JANUARY 2026 | NEW ENGLAND NEWS + MEDIA

LIVING WELL Biomarkers are powerful tools for early detection and targeted care, but their real impact depends on access, proper use, and followthrough in the healthcare system.

OM GAZINE.C SOCOMA

2026 JANUARY

2026 JANUARY

37

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INTIMACY Despite unprecedented freedom and connectivity, modern romance is in upheaval, as men and women—exhausted, confused, and often misunderstood—struggle to find genuine connection in a culture reshaped by technology, shifting roles, and unmet expectations.

46

TABLE

Welcome 2026 by gathering around the table for festive feasts—featuring roasted Chateaubriand, pepper-crusted prime rib, and crab-stuffed lobster tails—paired to delight every palate.

NEW ENGLAND NEWS + MEDIA | JANUARY 2026 | 9

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2026

UNSURE ABOUT THE NEW YEAR? THROW PARTIES! NEWENGLANDMONTHLY.COM

We Look Forward To The Mysteries Of 2026 Unfolding

Sliding Into 2026 With Each New Year Comes Pleasant Memories Coupled With New Experiences

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Welcome to Marion’s Converse Point, an exclusive waterfront enclave on Buzzards Bay. Set on 2.76 acres, this 5,030 sq. ft. residence offers breathtaking views of Buzzards Bay and effortless coastal living. Built in 2012, this home features 5 bedrooms, 4.5 baths, an elevator, and multiple decks showcasing the sweeping views. The chef’s kitchen features premium appliances and custom cabinetry, flowing to sunlit living spaces ideal for entertaining. Enjoy a heated swimming pool, hot tub, and pool cabana.

MARION, MASSACHUSETTS Welcome to Marion, the hidden gem of the Southcoast! This large and incredibly private East Marion property could be the site of your dream home(s)! With 17+ acres, the opportunities are endless.

This property is located outside of the flood zone and has access to town water and sewer at the buyer’s expense. Don’t miss this incredible opportunity!

EXCLUSIVELY LISTED AT $399,000

Custom-designed and built estate set on a 10+ acre estate in the secluded Hammett’s Cove neighborhood in East Marion.

This property offers an unparalleled blend of elegance, privacy, and coastal charm. Complete with a 4,000 +/- sq. ft. main home, 3-car garage, gunite pool, pool house, putting green, and access to the association beach and dock, offering easy access to Sippican Harbor!

EXCLUSIVELY LISTED AT $4,500,000

Step inside this classic 1961 Royal Barry Wills-designed Cape Cod-style home located in the heart of Marion Village!

Set on a private .52 acre lot, this 2,400 +/- sq. ft. home offers 3 bedrooms, 3 full baths, a formal living room with Rumford fireplace and built-ins, dining area, cozy den, and a kitchen with updated appliances. Walk to the town center, Silvershell Beach, and schools in just minutes from this central location.

SOLD FOR $1,275,000

| IMPRESSIONS |

bugged

BY PEET NOURJIAN

DO HUMANS EVEN HAVE THE RIGHT TO ROLL OUR EYEBALLS AT THE SIGHT OF INSECTS ON THE BATHROOM TILE WHO CLEARLY HAVE NO SENSE OF STYLE

UP FROM THE DRAIN A CENTIPEDE A HUNDRED PEDICURES SHE’LL NEED MOSQUITOS BUZZING AROUND MY HEAD BULGING EYEBALLS AND UNDERFED

ANTS ARE A GOOD PLACE TO BEGIN WHAT’S WITH THAT WAISTLINE, FAR TOO THIN AND SPIDERS WITH THE HAIRY BACK IT’S GROOMING AIDS THAT INSECTS LACK

DOGS AND HORSES ARE BRED FOR SHOW BREEDING BUGS IS THE WAY TO GO EARWIG FASHION WOULD BE TIE-DYE AFTER SEX WITH A BUTTERFLY. H

14 | JANUARY 2026 | NEW ENGLAND NEWS + MEDIA

DUXBURY $3,950,000

Exceptional 5,073-square-foot estate on 1.6+ acres pairs architectural elegance with resort-style amenities.

MATTAPOISETT $2,250,000

TRURO $2,100,000

FALMOUTH $1,359,000

BREWSTER $1,229,000

PLYMOUTH $685,000

CHELSEA $649,900

Magnificent coastal retreat just outside the village offering deeded beach rights and sweeping views of the harbor and Molly’s Cove.

Nestled on a private 1.41-acre wooded lot, this unique property offers timeless charm and modern comforts.

One-of-a-kind mid-century modern home in breathtaking natural setting atop Truro Hills.

Bright, efficient, and beautifully maintained, this 3BR home sits just .4 miles to the Indian Brook Association Beach.

Spacious 4,700+ sq. ft. home on over two acres in the private Ballymeade Estate gated community.

Sunny, well-kept 3-bed, 2-bath home in a beautiful treelined Prattville neighborhood easy access to the city.

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Caregiver Payments

Caring for someone at home? You may qualify for a monthly payment.

Are you facing the challenges of caring for a loved one at home? Perhaps trying to wholeheartedly balance their needs and the daily demands life delivers you?

If this sounds familiar, we are here to assist you in providing an unmatched standard of Adult Foster Care benefits for those striving to stay in their homes.

Mass Care Link is evolutionary, providing a monthly payment to those caring for someone at home while supporting them with a personalized touch.

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Families and individuals rely on our services to: • Ensure caregivers receive a tax-free monthly

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• Provide necessary medical care and assistance that

meets the needs of the person they care for

For your family member or loved one to qualify for Mass Care Link services, they must meet these eligibility points: • Be 16 years of age or older • Be approved for MassHealth insurance • Live with the primary caregiver in the same home • Require supervision and cueing, or physical assistance

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| CAPITAL |

THE YOUNG AREN’T WHINING

THEY’RE TOO BUSY INVESTING

BY STEVEN CHAN

18 | JANUARY 2026 | NEW ENGLAND NEWS + MEDIA

NEW ENGLAND NEWS + MEDIA | JANUARY 2026 | 19

T

here’s a story older generations like to tell about younger Americans: that anyone younger than them takes pleasure in complaining, with the expectation that the world will bend to them. It’s a tidy narrative because it lets everyone else feel like the adults in the room. But it’s also increasingly out of date. A growing share of young people isn’t waiting to be ‘lifted’ by institutions, employers, or politicians. In fact, they’re working with what they have, learning fast, and putting money to work—sometimes cautiously, and at other times, recklessly, but often with a mindset that can be summed up in one phrase: ‘Nobody is coming to save me.’

You can see this shift in participation data and in how financial companies report behavior. Across multiple surveys and platforms, Gen Z is entering investing earlier than prior generations did at the same life stage. The World Economic Forum’s research 20 | JANUARY 2026 | NEW ENGLAND NEWS + MEDIA

The World Economic Forum’s research on retail investors across 13 economies found that around 30 percent of Gen Z start investing in early adulthood, compared with 9 percent of Gen X and 6 percent of Baby Boomers— a striking acceleration in the timeline of wealth-building.1

on retail investors across 13 economies found that around 30 percent of Gen Z start investing in early adulthood, compared with 9 percent of Gen X and 6 percent of Baby Boomers—a striking acceleration in the timeline of wealth-building.1 That doesn’t mean every young adult is a disciplined investor. Still, by many indicators, the ‘I’ll deal with money later’ posture is becoming less common among people who grew up watching financial stocks, high housing costs, and a retirement system that often feels like a do-it-yourself kit.

The numbers suggest this isn’t a fringe behavior. Fidelity reported that Gen Z Roth IRA accounts surged year over year in early 2024, alongside rising average contributions—evidence that young workers are not merely ‘interested’ in investing but are actively using tax-advantaged accounts once they gain access to them.2 And when young investors have options, they lean toward structures built for longrun outcomes. Reporting tied to Fidelity

data indicates that Gen Z shows a strong preference for Roth-style contributions, and other industry reports point in the same direction, with a meaningful share of Gen Z 401(k) participants choosing Roth 401(k) contributions.3 The Roth preference is telling: it reflects an assumption that future tax rates may be higher, or at least uncertain, and that planning ahead is safer than hoping for policy miracles.

It’s also important to notice what made this easier: systems changed. Commissionfree trading, fractional shares, and simple mobile interfaces took away the ‘gatekeeping’ friction that used to keep small investors on the sidelines. Meanwhile, retirement plans increasingly use automatic features that encourage young workers to save before they feel ‘ready.’ Vanguard’s reports just how robust such participation is among workers aged 1824. They found that savings rose dramatically over time and were far higher in plans with automatic enrollment than in those without.4 The lesson isn’t that young adults magically developed perfect discipline; it’s that when the path is built into the system, many will walk into it and remain committed.

Still, this isn’t just about convenience. It’s about psychology shaped by real conditions.

It’s also important to notice what made this easier: systems changed. Commissionfree trading, fractional shares, and simple mobile interfaces took away the ‘gatekeeping’ friction that used to keep small investors on the sidelines.

Meanwhile, retirement plans increasingly use automatic features that encourage young workers to save before they feel ‘ready.’

Young adults are living through expensive housing, expensive debt, and a job market that can feel like a treadmill even when the headlines are positive. Surveys repeatedly show anxiety about emergency costs, and younger adults are often the most exposed because they have less of a cushion. A Bankrate emergency savings survey found that many people—Gen Z included—think they’d need months of expenses saved to feel secure, even while the ability to build that cushion remains difficult.5 Bank of America’s reporting on young adults similarly underscores how many struggle to maintain sufficient emergency funds even as they adapt their behavior in response to rising costs.6 That combination—high anxiety and limited margin—doesn’t always produce whining; often, it produces hustle, side income, and the decision to invest anyway because doing nothing feels like guaranteed loss.

It’s here that the caricature breaks down.

Complaining is easy. Building a cushion while paying rent is not. Yet the data show young people are still showing up in markets in growing numbers. The data support the idea that retail participation is not a sideshow, according to the World Economic Forum.7 Additionally, exchange and market-structure

NEW ENGLAND NEWS + MEDIA | JANUARY 2026 | 21

commentary has similarly described retail volume as a substantial portion of overall activity.8 This disclosure is critical because it signals something more profound than a few viral ‘stock picks.’ A generation that invests—even imperfectly—is a generation that’s trying to graduate from consumer to owner with an eye on the future.

Of course, not all young investing is admirable. Some of it is speculative, social, and fueled by attention. Social media can turn markets into a game show, and a subset of young traders treating options and highvolatility stocks like lottery tickets. That behavior gets headlines precisely because it’s dramatic. But the more consequential trend is less cinematic: steady contributions, broadmarket funds, and retirement accounts filling up one paycheck at a time. Even the big retail platforms report changes in attitude: Schwab’s investor survey work suggests younger investors describe themselves as more patient over time, pushing back against the idea that the TikTok era can’t think past next week.9 And then there’s the bigger moral distinction: dependency versus agency. In every era, some people expect life to be arranged for them—by parents, community, or employers. Today, that expectation can hide behind fashionable language, but it’s still the same position: if I’m struggling, someone owes me relief; if I’m behind, someone must be keeping me down; if I fail, the rules must be unfair. In all

22 | JANUARY 2026 | NEW ENGLAND NEWS + MEDIA

Bank of America’s reporting on young adults similarly underscores how many struggle to maintain sufficient emergency funds even as they adapt their behavior in response to rising costs.6 That combination—high anxiety and limited margin—doesn’t always produce whining; often, it produces hustle, side income, and the decision to invest anyway because doing nothing feels like guaranteed loss.

honesty, sometimes that’s true—systems can be unjust, and bad luck is real. But the worldview becomes destructive when it turns into an identity, a permanent claim on others, or an excuse for inaction.

The young industrious crowd is making a different bet. They still see flaws in the system, but they respond with strategy rather than surrender. They job-hop for raises instead of waiting for loyalty to be rewarded.

They stack credentials or find a second job. Meanwhile, they’re setting aside an emergency fund in small increments; they are being ‘proactive.’

The retirement landscape reinforces their view. Traditional pensions are rare in the private sector, and Social Security debates never entirely go away. Leaving the personal retirement account to become the default tool for future stability. Industry reporting also shows broader growth in 401(k) access and participation in recent years, which strengthens the ‘ownership pathway’ even as it underscores that individuals bear greater responsibility than they did.10 If you’re young and paying attention, the conclusion is obvious: your retirement isn’t a promise; it’s a project.

That perspective is also shaping what young people buy and how they define success. Older status markers—big house early, new car, expensive vacations— are being filtered through a harsher affordability reality. Some young adults

still chase the appearance of wealth, but many are internalizing a new hierarchy: liquidity matters, flexibility is required, and compounding is magical. That doesn’t mean they’re all living like monks; instead, many are learning to treat money like a tool rather than a trophy.

There’s also a class element that polite conversation often ignores. Young people with supportive families, stable housing, and access to good jobs will always have an easier time investing. But what’s notable now is that investing behavior is spreading beyond the traditionally ‘comfortable’ class, precisely because fractional shares, low minimums, and Roth IRAs allow smaller starts. That democratization isn’t perfect, and it carries risks, but it’s real. It’s one reason mutual fund ownership shows up even among younger households, not just older cohorts, as found

by ICI.11 If we want self-reliant citizens, we should notice when a generation embraces responsibility instead of dependency. Second, we should separate real structural problems from performative despair. Student debt burdens, housing supply shortages, and healthcare costs are not imaginary. The healthiest approach is not ‘everything is your

fault’ or ‘nothing is your responsibility.’ It’s: the world is complicated, and the rules are imperfect; “You must build your future.”

Finally, we should be honest about the political temptation to infantilize. A culture that tells young adults they are helpless is a culture that makes them easier to manage— easier to mobilize, easier to market to, easier to govern. But a culture that teaches young adults to invest, save, and own assets creates independent thinkers with options. This type of citizen is more complex and more challenging to manipulate.

The cliché says young people are entitled and fragile. Still, the data and the behavior underlying it point to something else: a generation that understands it has to be self-sufficient and is acting accordingly— opening accounts, learning the language of assets, choosing long-term vehicles like retirement plans, and participating in markets at an earlier age.1 Some of them will make mistakes, others will chase hype, and a percentage will give up. But the larger direction is clear: there’s a cadre of young folks who aren’t whining. They’re budgeting, building, and investing— because they’ve concluded, correctly, that waiting to be raised by others is a losing

strategy, resulting in a zero-sum game.

If you want a hopeful signal in a noisy time, it’s this: ownership is contagious. Once a person starts seeing themselves not only as a worker and a consumer but as a builder of capital, their relationship to the future changes. They become harder to defeat with cynicism. They take on ownership, and as we all know, owners have backbone and are driven by goals. H 1. World Economic Forum, Global Retail Investor Outlook, 2022–2023.

2. Fidelity Investments, Q1 2024 Retirement Analysis, 2024.

3. Fidelity Investments, Gen Z and Roth Contribution Trends, 2023–2024.

4. Vanguard Group, How America Saves, 2023.

5. Bankrate, Emergency Savings Survey, 2023.

6. Bank of America Institute, Gen Z: Financial Priorities and Stress, 2023.

7. World Economic Forum, Retail Investor Impact on Market Structure, 2021–2022.

8. MEMX Exchange, Retail Trading Share and Market Participation, 2022.

9. Charles Schwab, Modern Wealth Survey, 2023.

10. National Association of Plan Advisors (NAPA), 401(k) Plan Participation Trends, 2023.

11. Investment Company Institute (ICI), U.S. Household Ownership of Mutual Funds, 2023.

(The information contained in this feature is strictly educational and for entertainment purposes. Under no circumstances should it be construed or used as investment advice.)

NEW ENGLAND NEWS + MEDIA | JANUARY 2026 | 23

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| RENEWAL |

When History Speaks and

Hope Answers

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BY SUSAN FLETCHER

very year arrives the same way—quietly at first. A final second fades, a new one begins, and suddenly the world steps forward together. Fireworks may fill the sky, music may rise in celebration, and voices may count down the moment, but beneath it all there is something older, deeper, and shared.

When we say “Happy New Year,” we are not merely greeting a date on the calendar.

We are speaking a phrase shaped by centuries of human memory, resilience, and hope.

The beginning of a new year continues to hold a powerful place in modern life, even in an age defined by rapid change, constant connectivity, and blurred boundaries between work, rest, and time itself. While calendars still turn as they always have, the meaning we attach to a new year today is deeply shaped by contemporary realities—technology, global challenges, personal reinvention, and a growing desire for balance and purpose. A hopeful new year in the modern sense is less about grand declarations and more about intentional living, resilience, and the belief that meaningful change can happen one day, one choice, at a time.

FROM ANCIENT MARKER TO MODERN MILESTONE Historically, the new year was tied to natural cycles, religious observances, and survival. In contrast, the modern new year

functions primarily as a psychological and cultural milestone.

It is one of the few moments when much of the world pauses simultaneously, reflects collectively, and looks forward together.

Even without shared rituals or beliefs, people across cultures recognize January 1 as a symbolic reset—a line drawn between ‘before’ and ‘after.’

In today’s world, time often feels compressed. News cycles move at lightning speed, trends rise and fall overnight, and personal milestones are shared instantly online. Against this backdrop, the new year stands out as a rare opportunity to slow down. It invites reflection not because life demands it, but because we choose it.

This choice gives the modern new year its meaning.

THE NEW YEAR AS A PSYCHOLOGICAL RESET Modern research supports what many people intuitively feel: the start of a new year creates a ‘fresh start effect.’ This mental shift makes individuals more open to change, more forgiving of past mistakes, and more motivated to set goals. The calendar itself may be arbitrary, but the emotional impact is real.

Unlike in the past, modern goals are not limited to survival or prosperity alone. People now seek mental well-being, fulfillment, authenticity, and balance. A hopeful new year is often about restoring alignment—between values and actions, ambition and rest, productivity and presence. It reflects a growing awareness that success is not just external achievement, but internal stability and meaning.

NEW ENGLAND NEWS + MEDIA | JANUARY 2026 | 25

THE ROLE OF REFLECTION TODAY Reflection remains central to the new year, but its modern form is gentler and more honest. Rather than judging the past year by accomplishments alone, people are asking deeper questions: What drained my energy? What nourished it? Where did I feel most like myself? Where did I compromise too much?

This kind of reflection fosters self-awareness rather than selfcriticism. It allows individuals to carry forward lessons without carrying guilt. A new year begins not with erasing the past, but with understanding it.

RETHINKING RESOLUTIONS Traditional New Year’s resolutions have long been associated with unrealistic expectations and quick abandonment. In response, modern approaches favor flexibility and self-compassion. Instead of rigid promises, many people now set themes, intentions, or guiding principles for the year ahead—such as growth, health, simplicity, or connection.

This shift reflects a broader cultural change. Modern life is unpredictable, and perfection is neither realistic nor sustainable.

A hopeful new year does not demand flawless execution; it encourages persistence. Missed goals are no longer seen as failures, but as information—feedback that helps refine direction.

RENEWAL THROUGH SMALL, SUSTAINABLE CHANGE Modern renewal favors sustainability over dramatic reinvention.

Instead of attempting to transform everything at once, people are learning the value of small, consistent actions. Drinking more water, walking regularly, reading before bed, checking in with loved ones—these modest habits often shape a year more profoundly than ambitious but short-lived plans.

This approach aligns hope with realism. It recognizes that meaningful change is built gradually, through repetition and patience. The new year becomes less about becoming someone new overnight and more about becoming more well-rounded over time.

COLLECTIVE HOPE AND SHARED RESPONSIBILITY Although the modern new year is often framed as a personal reset, it is also a collective moment. Global events remind us that individual choices ripple outward. A hopeful new year today includes a growing sense of responsibility—to communities, to the environment, and to future generations.

Volunteering, conscious consumption, civic engagement, and everyday kindness are increasingly seen as valid and important new year commitments.

LOOKING FORWARD WITH INTENTION HOPE IN AN UNCERTAIN WORLD Intention helps translate values into daily choices. Entering a new The modern new year unfolds against a backdrop of global

BY STEVEN CHAN year with intention does not mean controlling outcomes; it means uncertainty. Climate concerns, economic instability, social choosing how to respond, adapt, and show up. divisions, and rapid technological change can make the future feel A hopeful new year invites patience with uncertainty and daunting. In this context, hope becomes an act of courage. openness to change. It encourages curiosity instead of fear and Modern hope is not blind optimism. It is informed, aware, and progress instead of perfection. Most importantly, it reminds us that grounded in action. To enter a new year with hope today means while we cannot predict the future, we can participate in shaping it. acknowledging challenges while refusing to be defined by them. It means believing that progress—personal or collective—can still be CONCLUSION: HOPE, REIMAGINED made, even when the path forward is complex.

The meaning of a new year has evolved from ancient necessity Each new year offers an opportunity to reimagine systems, to modern reflection, but its core promise remains the same: the strengthen communities, and choose empathy over apathy. possibility of renewal. In today’s world, hope is quieter, more grounded, and more resilient than ever before.

PERSONAL GROWTH IN THE DIGITAL AGE A hopeful new year is not defined by fireworks or flawless plans, The digital age has reshaped how we experience time, identity, but by intention, awareness, and compassion. It is the decision to and progress. Social media often presents curated highlights, keep moving forward thoughtfully, even when the way is unclear. making comparison almost unavoidable at the start of a new year.

As the year begins, hope becomes not a fleeting feeling, but a steady A hopeful modern perspective, however, encourages turning inward commitment—to growth, to connection, and to the belief that rather than outward. tomorrow can still be shaped with care and purpose.

Growth today is increasingly understood as personal and non-linear. The new year becomes a chance to redefine success From all of us at New England News + Media, we wish you a Happy on individual terms—to focus on learning rather than proving, New Year filled with hope and peace. May the months ahead bring clarity healing rather than rushing, and becoming rather than performing. in times of uncertainty, strength in moments of change, and quiet joy Logging off more often, setting boundaries with technology, and in everyday life. As the year unfolds, we hope it offers space for renewal, protecting mental health are now common and meaningful new connection, and the promise of brighter days ahead. H year intentions.

26 | JANUARY 2026 | NEW ENGLAND NEWS + MEDIA

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| HEALTH |

The Wisdom of Women’s Safety AN INHERITED INTELLIGENCE, A MODERN NECESSITY

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BY MARGO ROBERTS

here is a particular kind of knowledge women carry that rarely announces itself. It lives in posture and pace, in the choice of shoe for a late night, in the quiet glance over a shoulder that looks effortless but is anything but accidental. It is not fear—it is fluency. The fluency of navigating a world that still asks women to be both visible and vigilant.

Women’s safety is often framed as a problem to be solved or a risk to be managed. But beneath the surface lies something far more complex and enduring: wisdom. Not abstract or theoretical, but embodied.

Learned early. Refined daily. Passed down not through lectures, but through lived experience.

This is the wisdom women have always known—and the world is only beginning to understand.

WHAT GIRLS LEARN BEFORE THEY HAVE LANGUAGE Long before safety becomes a policy issue, it becomes a personal one. Girls absorb rules before

they understand why they exist: stay close, be careful, don’t draw attention. These instructions are not rooted in fragility but in foresight. They are acts of love shaped by reality.

Over time, they transform into instinct. Women learn which streets feel different after dark, which silences carry meaning, which moments ask them to leave without explanation. These lessons are often unspoken, yet they shape life in profound ways. They exist in the tilt of the head, in the choice of companions, in the rhythm of a woman’s steps.

For many women, the first lessons of safety are woven into daily life like invisible threads. Mothers and grandmothers model careful awareness, older sisters share stories of caution, friends warn against unseen risks.

Even in the most privileged contexts, this education is inevitable: it is a silent recognition that the world has not yet evolved to accommodate women without vigilance.

To dismiss this awareness as mere caution is to misunderstand it. It is strategy. It is intelligence sharpened by history.

INTUITION, RECLAIMED Few qualities are as consistently undervalued in women as intuition—and few are as essential to safety. Intuition is often dismissed as emotional, unreliable, or overly sensitive. In reality, it is pattern recognition operating faster than conscious thought.

It is the ability to read subtle cues: a glance that lingers too long, a step taken too closely, a tone that hints at something unspoken.

Women are trained, socially and culturally, to doubt this internal voice—to smooth over discomfort for the sake of politeness, to second-guess instincts to avoid appearing dramatic or difficult. Yet safety wisdom teaches the opposite: discomfort is data. Every twinge, every hesitancy is a signal, a guide toward action.

Leaving early is not rude. Saying no is not unkind. Changing plans is not weakness. It is discernment.

In a culture that encourages women to override themselves, listening inward becomes a radical act of self-trust. It is an elegant and unspoken rebellion. And when intuition is paired with experience, it becomes something formidable: the ability to navigate the world with precision, poise, and presence.

THE QUIET COST OF BEING PREPARED Preparation, however, comes at a cost. The constant calculation—what time is it? Who is around? Is this safe?— demands energy, often invisible to the outside world. It shapes how women move through space, often in ways so normalized they go unnoticed.

We take the longer route if it’s brighter. We text when we arrive.

We weigh opportunity against risk. These adjustments are rarely acknowledged, yet they subtly limit freedom. Not because women lack courage, but because awareness has been learned the hard way.

The burden of vigilance is often treated as a personal responsibility, yet this framing obscures a critical truth: true safety requires more than individual effort. It demands structural change, cultural shift, and collective accountability. And yet, despite this unacknowledged labor, women continue to navigate these challenges with grace, turning vigilance into a refined skill—an art form of survival.

SAFETY IS NOT A STYLING CHOICE Fashion has always reflected how women navigate the world— sometimes as expression, sometimes as armor. But the persistent suggestion that women can dress themselves into safety is both reductive and dangerous. It frames prevention as appearance, choice as armor.

Wisdom rejects this narrative. It recognizes that safety is not a matter of hemlines or silhouettes. It is not achieved through restraint or invisibility. Responsibility does not lie with how women present themselves, but with how society responds to their presence.

Consider urban centers like New York, Tokyo, or Paris. Women moving confidently in designer heels, carefully tailored suits, or evening gowns are simultaneously celebrated for their style and scrutinized for their risk. In such environments, fashion becomes both a statement and a shield, but it is neither sufficient nor appropriate to rely on clothing for protection. True safety is structural. It lives in well-lit streets, equitable workplaces, responsive public transport, and social norms that enforce respect consistently rather than selectively.

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THE COLLECTIVE INTELLIGENCE OF WOMEN If women’s safety wisdom begins individually, it is sustained collectively. Women have long relied on one another in ways both subtle and profound—walking home together, checking in, sharing information without needing to explain why. These acts are often small, almost invisible, yet their cumulative effect is immense.

This is not fear-driven behavior. It is care-driven intelligence.

A recognition that protection is stronger when shared. And as communities evolve, so too do the methods of safeguarding one another.

The digital age has transformed these networks. Social media and messaging platforms allow rapid sharing of information, from neighborhood alerts to reports of harassment in public spaces.

While technology brings new vulnerabilities, it also amplifies the enduring truth: women are safer when they are connected, when their knowledge is shared, and when their voices are heard.

THE DIGITAL FRONTIER Modern safety does not end at the door. Online spaces— once imagined as neutral—have become sites of harassment, surveillance, and abuse. Navigating them requires a new form of wisdom: digital literacy, boundary-setting, and the discernment to know when visibility becomes vulnerability.

Women negotiate their digital presence with the same care they negotiate physical spaces. Privacy settings, professional visibility, social media etiquette, and awareness of digital footprints become daily practices. Yet these measures are not failures—they are sophisticated adaptations to the modern environment.

The burden, however, should not fall solely on women to protect themselves. Platforms, policies, and cultural norms must evolve to recognize digital harm as real harm. Women should not have to disappear to remain safe—physically or virtually. Safety must be a shared responsibility, and digital literacy is only one tool among many in the pursuit of protection and dignity.

EDUCATION AS EMPOWERMENT The most forward-thinking approach to safety is not restriction, but education. Not teaching women how to avoid harm, but teaching everyone how to prevent it.

That means centering consent, empathy, and accountability as cultural values. It means empowering women with confidence and autonomy, while addressing the behaviors and beliefs that place them at risk in the first place.

Wisdom insists that safety education must include all genders. Teaching boys respect, teaching communities accountability, teaching society empathy—these are not peripheral to women’s safety; they are central. The future of safety lies not in caution alone, but in cultivating a culture that actively supports dignity and respect.

BEYOND SURVIVAL Women’s resilience is often celebrated, but resilience should not be romanticized. Adaptation is impressive, but it should not be required. The goal is not to survive unsafe systems gracefully—it is to change them.

The wisdom of women’s safety teaches that the world must evolve. Awareness should not be a requirement for participation; intuition should not be a shield against harm. Safety should be a given, a baseline expectation, not a daily negotiation.

Yet within these constraints, women continue to exhibit remarkable creativity, courage, and elegance. There is grace in vigilance, in subtle strategy, and in quiet navigation of an imperfect world. These are qualities often overlooked—but they are central to the story of women’s wisdom.

CULTURAL NARRATIVES AND REPRESENTATION Culturally, women are often portrayed as either victims or survivors—rarely as experts in their own lived realities. The wisdom of women’s safety challenges this binary. It recognizes women as knowledgeable navigators of complex worlds, capable of agency, insight, and strategic decision-making.

Media representation plays a pivotal role. When women’s experiences are shown honestly, when stories highlight both caution and power, they normalize vigilance without shame, intuition without apology, and resilience without glorification.

Fashion, art, literature, and film all contribute to reframing the narrative—demonstrating that safety and sophistication are not mutually exclusive.

SAFETY, STYLE, AND THE CITY Urban life presents unique challenges. Cities are celebrated for culture, nightlife, and fashion, yet they are also spaces where risk is unavoidable. Women must negotiate these dualities constantly: the desire to move freely, the need to remain vigilant, the wish to dress boldly without inviting scrutiny.

Fashion becomes a subtle form of self-expression, a language that conveys confidence and agency. Yet the ultimate statement is not the outfit itself—it is the right to wear it without threat, to walk through any space with autonomy intact.

True safety transforms the city. When streets are well-lit, when public transport is reliable, when harassment is addressed rather than normalized, the urban landscape becomes a runway of possibility rather than a gauntlet of caution.

A WISER WAY FORWARD The wisdom of women’s safety offers a roadmap forward—one rooted in listening, respect, and shared responsibility. It asks society to move beyond placing the burden on individuals and toward creating systems that protect dignity and freedom.

When women are safe, they are freer to create, to lead, to imagine boldly. Their wisdom, once treated as private coping, becomes public knowledge—and collective strength. Safety is not fear. It is possibility. It is a state of being that allows women to fully inhabit the world, without compromise, without apology.

CLOSING THOUGHT Safety is elegance, intellect, and poise in action. It is not an accessory, nor a precaution; it is a fundamental human right.

The wisdom of women’s safety is a gift—quiet, enduring, and transformative.

To honor it is to listen. To act. To reimagine the spaces we share, the systems we uphold, and the stories we tell. When women are safe, they are free. And when women are free, the world itself becomes more refined, more vibrant, and more humane. H

NEW ENGLAND NEWS + MEDIA | JANUARY 2026 | 31

| LIVING WELL |

BY ROB SAINT LAURENT, M.ED.

A

ccording to the Society of Brain Tumors, Ben S-L was just shy of turning 32 when he began experiencing unexplained headaches, loss of sensation in his tongue, and colliding with a wall one day after misjudging a corner. Knowing something was amiss, he consulted a neurologist and demanded an MRI—the verdict: an incurable high-grade brainstem glioma.

Dissatisfied after enduring a year of standard chemo and radiation therapy, his biomedical researcher friend suggested biomarker testing to reveal genetic or molecular clues about his tumor that could lead to a more personalized care approach. With no real options left, he decided to pursue testing, which would lead to a paradigm shift in the course of his treatment and life.

Ben tested positive for the H3K27M mutation, qualifying him for expanded access to an investigational therapy targeting it, which is still undergoing clinical trials. Today, seven years on from his diagnosis, he continues to take the experimental medication and has witnessed a decrease in tumor size.

“Biomarker testing changed everything,” says Ben. “Everything else was just a band-aid.”1 His experience highlights how identifying a minute disease indicator can alter treatment outcomes.

THE HIDDEN WORLD OF BIOMARKERS Some biomarkers are readily noticeable: chronic fatigue, a persistent headache, and a rapid pulse. But many biomarkers are invisible and must be revealed through lab testing. These are the chemical signatures of health and disease that signal the condition of our inner workings. They’re in all our tissues, our blood, urine, DNA, and RNA. They turn what we can’t perceive into usable data to create a more accurate picture of our physical state.

Canada’s Gastrointestinal Society describes seven kinds of biomarkers that clinicians use to personalize one’s healthcare: outlined in chart.2

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BIOMARKER TYPE

PURPOSE

DIAGNOSTIC

Determining disease presence; for example, an IgA antibody blood test to determine immune-related conditions.

MONITORING

Showing disease development and treatment response; for example, blood pressure measurement and monitoring the 19-9 antigen for pancreatic, colon, and other cancers.

PHARMACODYNAMIC / RESPONSE

Determining a response to a drug or therapy, such as a change in heart rate, can help with dosing, duration, etc.

PREDICTIVE

Establishing risk for a particular disease and predicting treatment response; for example, BRCA-mutated proteins may be predictive of pancreatic cancer.

PROGNOSTIC

Determining whether a disease may progress or return, or the potential for a specific health outcome.

SUSCEPTIBILITY/ RISK

SAFETY

Evaluating odds of developing a disease; for example, markers of H. pylori bacterial infection are linked to increased stomach cancer risk.

Measuring the potential for an adverse treatment reaction; for example, high bilirubin (a yellow byproduct of red blood cell breakdown) can signal serious liver damage.

Biomarkers are the chemical signatures of health and disease that signal the condition of our inner workings. They’re in all our tissues, our blood, urine, DNA, and RNA. They turn what we can’t perceive into usable data to create a more accurate picture of our physical state.

NEW ENGLAND NEWS + MEDIA | JANUARY 2026 | 33

Biomarker testing is a central component of precision, or personalized, medicine. Extensive research and clinical trials go into validating biomarkers, since not all are clinically useful—a common misconception and one of the field’s biggest challenges, say experts.

EVIDENCE-BASED IMPORTANCE Biomarkers are critical signposts in a global landscape of increasing chronic disease. Alzheimer’s disease (AD), for example, is a frightening reality for tens of millions of people worldwide, with millions more expected to be afflicted by 2050. Blood biomarkers are anticipated to play a crucial role in early detection and treatment.

In recent years, the first disease-modifying treatments have become clinically available for early symptomatic AD, mild cognitive impairment, and mild dementia. However, to initiate early treatment for the best results, biomarker confirmation of plaque formation in the brain is needed. [The] current standard of care for affirming amyloid protein buildup is PET scanning and analyzing cerebrospinal fluid biomarkers. Scientists are working to optimize the accuracy and reliability of blood biomarker tests to improve early diagnosis.3 At the same time, cardiovascular disease (CVD) remains the world’s leading cause of death, claiming some 17 million lives annually. Like AD, biomarkers are emerging as crucial for early CVD detection and risk assessment. Research shows that advances in CV biomarkers have significantly improved CVD risk assessment, early diagnosis, and personalized treatment.

Metabolomics, or the analysis of metabolism-related factors, is one biomarker area. For example, high-sensitivity cardiac troponins (hs-cTn) are proteins released into the blood by damaged heart muscle after a heart attack. Lp(a), or lipoprotein a, is predictive of long-term CVD risk, while inflammation biomarkers C-reactive protein (CRP) and interleukin-6 (IL-6) are also predictive of CVD risk.4 Circulating microRNAs, like miR-208, are another biomarker area that can signal an oncoming heart attack and heart failure.4

Biomarker testing has strong validity in both the lab and in practice for many established markers, especially in cancer, AD, sepsis, and pharmacogenomics (the study of how genes affect individual drug response). The tests can measure what they claim to measure and are linked to disease outcomes.

34 | JANUARY 2026 | NEW ENGLAND NEWS + MEDIA

REAL-WORLD EXPERIENCES A question many patients ask—yet are often ignored or diverted from—arises when they visit their primary care physician and request an interpretation or clinical conclusion based on a report provided by a ‘biomarker doctor’ or testing agency. These entities typically do not offer clinical intervention or follow-up care. When primary care physicians dismiss or minimize the relevance of a patient’s personal biomarker profile, patients are often left confused and uncertain, prompting them to search the internet for answers on their own.

In some cases, primary care physicians have gone further, openly disparaging offices that offer biomarker testing. This reaction often stems from the fact that such services routinely refer patients back to their primary care physicians for consultation and treatment recommendations based on the results. These responses have created tension within the medical community, and such friction is increasing as more patients pursue biomarker-based evaluations.

Evidence supporting the clinical value of biomarkers continues to grow. In the Journal of Neurology, Neurosurgery, and Psychiatry, researchers examined the real-world effectiveness of cerebrospinal fluid biomarkers in the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease. Across 17 studies, the biomarkers were found to be well validated, capable of accurate diagnosis, and able to meaningfully influence treatment decisions.⁵ The common thread throughout this research is that while biomarker science is sound and often highly effective, it is not always applied consistently, correctly, or early enough. Access also remains uneven. As a result, patients may gain knowledge of their condition without having the clinical support or medical access necessary to act on it—creating a barrier to meaningful intervention that is difficult to overcome.

As Ben S-L can attest, cancer research shows that biomarker testing can enable better treatment matching, leading to improved outcomes. But overall value depends greatly on whether health systems use them, correctly interpret results, and on drug availability and price.6 A research review of 77 studies in JCO Precision Oncology found that current biomarker use in cancer treatment can be limited by clinicians not knowing which tests to use and how to interpret results, workflow issues like lab capacity and turnaround time, as well as cost reimbursement and restrictive policies.7 Biomarker testing has strong validity in both the lab and in practice for many established markers, especially in cancer, AD, sepsis, and pharmacogenomics (the study of how genes affect individual drug response). The tests can measure what they claim to measure and are linked to disease outcomes.

But there are limiting factors to real-world effectiveness. Cancer clinicians report inconsistent ability to interpret biomarker test results, communicate findings to patients, and make treatment suggestions. Their patients also report gaps in knowledge of biomarkers and their connections to treatment, as well as gaps in understanding research processes.7 Testing is also limited by its unavailability in some geographic regions, lack of insurance coverage, and long turnaround times.

And there are concerns surrounding its inappropriate use in unvalidated populations, the safety and effectiveness of related cancer treatments, the inaccessibility of clinical trials, and giving patients unrealistic expectations.7

So, while often effective in principle, biomarker testing’s success in practice depends on how well it’s implemented.

WORTH THE INVESTMENT? There is no standard of practice for biomarker testing, especially in cancer treatment. Experts say variability in ordering, processing, and interpretation can lead to differences in care quality.

Cancer patients, especially, don’t always get the biomarker tests they need even when clinical guidelines call for their use, which can jeopardize their health.8 Moreover, biomarker testing doesn’t always lead to better treatment. Effectiveness involves ordering the right tests, correctly interpreting results, and a health system that allows for the results to be acted upon.8 Effectiveness is often limited by implementation failure, not the underlying science.8 Biomarker testing is regarded as worthwhile when it can positively impact treatment strategy and guide targeted therapy, promote health/survival, and even reduce long-term treatment costs. This is especially so in precision cancer therapy, as in Ben’s case.

The right tests need to be done consistently and early on, say experts.

While biomarker testing is sometimes covered by insurance, coverage varies depending on U.S. state, insurance plan, and desired test. More states now require their state-regulated health systems, including Medicaid, to cover testing when medically needed.

But many commercial plans and Medicare payers do not, a major reason for people not getting tested.

For generally healthy people, biomarker testing is typically deemed worthwhile when one is at risk for a specific disease (family history, genetic predisposition) and the test is part of a validated screening program. Also, if there are symptoms that need explanation, or one already has a condition that could be helped with biomarker-guided treatment.

Experts caution against preventive biomarker testing aimed at consumers (‘longevity’ biomarkers, unvalidated aging markers, etc.), saying it’s still more of a wellness trend that lacks proof of clinical benefit and can lead people astray. H 1. National Brain Tumor Society. (2025, March 4). How Biomarker Testing Changed Everything for a Patient With Brainstem Glioma.

2. Gastrointestinal Society. (2022, July 6). What are Biomarkers? How Doctors Personalize Your Healthcare [Video]. YouTube.

3. Schindler, S. E., Galasko, D., Pereira, A. C., et al. (2024, June). Acceptable performance of blood biomarker tests of amyloid pathology – recommendations from the Global CEO Initiative on Alzheimer’s Disease. Nature Reviews Neurology, 20, 426-39.

4. Nazir, Ab., Nazir, Aw., Afzaal, U., et al. (2025, May). Advances in Biomarkers for Early Detection and Risk Stratification of Cardiovascular Diseases—A Literature Review.

Health Science Reports, 8(5), e70878.

5. Hazan, J., Wing, M., Liu, K. Y., et al. (2023). Clinical utility of cerebrospinal fluid biomarkers in the evaluation of cognitive impairment: a systematic review and metaanalysis. J Neurol Neurosurg Psychiatry, 94, 113-20.

6. Kehl, K. L. (2025). Biomarker Testing in Advanced Cancer. JAMA Network Open, 8(7), e2519972.

7. Salam, R. A., Dunlop, K. L.A., Gide, T. N., et al. (2025, October 9). Factors Associated With Implementation of Biomarker Testing and Strategies to Improve Its Clinical Uptake in Cancer Care... JCO Precision Oncology, 9, e2500063.

8. Blum, K. (2025, January 1). Overlooked and underserved, patients missed for cancer biomarker testing risk worse outcomes. Association for Diagnostics & Laboratory Medicine.

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| IN THE NEWS |

B AYC O A S T B A N K E M P LOY E E

Doug Toupin Receives Distinguished Award

I

n a press release forwarded by BayCoast Bank, it was announced that Doug Toupin, a kind, helpful, and always cheerful parking lot attendant at the Bank’s Troy Street branch, has received a distinguished honor—the Alves Award. The award recognizes Toupin’s commitment to exceptional service within the SouthCoast community.

The Alves Award is named in memory of John Alves, whose inspirational service on behalf of Attleboro Enterprises, Inc., left a lasting impact on program participants. The award is presented to an individual who exemplifies the values and ideals by which Alves lived.

Toupin has been employed by BayCoast Bank since 2009 and is beloved by colleagues and customers alike. His dedication and positive spirit made him a natural choice for the award, which was presented by Attleboro Enterprises, Inc., an organization that supports adults with disabilities.

Throughout his tenure at BayCoast Bank, Toupin has

36 | JANUARY 2026 | NEW ENGLAND NEWS + MEDIA

exemplified the Bank’s mission and core values, taking genuine pride in his work each and every day.

On December 11, Toupin added another honor to his growing list of achievements when BayCoast Bank President and CEO Nicholas M. Christ, along with Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer Marie Pellegrino, presented him with a Certificate of Distinction recognizing his years of dedicated service.

“BayCoast isn’t just a bank—we’re a family, and we are extremely proud to honor Doug for his dedication, not just to our organization, but to the members of our community,” said Christ. “Doug is a hard-working colleague, but most importantly, he is our friend. We wish him many more years of happily greeting customers and improving their overall banking experience when they visit our Troy Street branch.”

Pellegrino added, “If you see Doug at the branch, we hope you’ll take a moment to say hello—it would mean the world to him.” H

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| INTIMACY |

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FRIEND OR FOE? The Modern Struggle to Find Love in an Age of Disconnection Love doesn’t have to mean losing freedom; it can mean building something enduring with someone who champions your individual and shared potential.

BY STEVEN CHAN

B

y all accounts, finding love should be easier today than ever before. Technology connects billions of people with the tap of a finger, with gender roles no longer as rigid as they have been in the past.

Women have unprecedented freedom, and men are more aware of the importance of emotional openness; yet, for many, romance feels increasingly elusive, if not unattainable.

As modern life redefines everything from careers to communication, it’s clear that romantic relationships haven’t escaped an upheaval. The timeless pursuit of connection is destined to navigate a cultural landscape full of friction, confusion, and unmet expectations. In this new world, an unanswered question looms: Are men and women becoming allies in love—or adversaries in disguise?

Welcome to the complicated era of modern romance, where the line between friend and foe is often blurred.

NEW ENGLAND NEWS + MEDIA | JANUARY 2026 | 43

THE MALE PERSPECTIVE: LIVING IN SILENT FRUSTRATION Research indicates that men across cultures are reporting growing disillusionment with dating and relationships. Surveys and social conversations reflect a chorus of recurring themes. One of the most common complaints is a deep-seated sense of being underappreciated. It seems that many men feel their contributions—whether emotional, financial, or practical—go unnoticed or underappreciated. They’re expected to be providers, protectors, and partners, yet they often receive little validation in return.

Another key complaint, which is difficult to believe in today’s world of physical openness, is sexual dissatisfaction. In longterm relationships, men frequently report a decrease in physical intimacy. For many, this isn’t just about sex—it’s about feeling desired and emotionally connected. When intimacy fades, so too does the sense of partnership.

Males also express frustration with criticism, whether it concerns their appearance, ambition, or emotional expression. This slight is found to be especially true with digital dating, where superficial standards and unrealistic expectations prevail.

At the heart of the modern romantic divide is a breakdown in mutual understanding.

Men are feeling rejected and unneeded.

Women often complain about feeling exhausted and being undervalued.

Both struggle with communication, and both feel misunderstood.

44 | JANUARY 2026 | NEW ENGLAND NEWS + MEDIA

Are men meant to be assertive or sensitive? Traditional or modern? Providers or co-equals? The lack of clarity leads many to disengage altogether. Add to that the emotional deflation of dating apps—where messages go unanswered, and rejection is frequent—and it’s no surprise that many men are quietly bowing out of the search for love.

In conducting an impromptu survey, we found that among a sample of young men aged 21-35, nearly 50 percent claimed they are unattached because they have no interest in ‘playing the game.’ Also, noting that dating is ‘too expensive.’

THE FEMALE EXPERIENCE: EXHAUSTED BY THE LOAD On the other side of the gender divide, women are also voicing a sense of romantic fatigue—but from a different angle.

Among their concerns is the emotional unavailability of potential partners, and despite social shifts, many women find that men struggle to open themselves up, communicate effectively, or express vulnerability. This point holds validity; without emotional depth, relationships often stall or collapse under the weight of superficiality.

According to females, the invisible workload they carry in relationships is equally taxing. Emotional labor— encompassing planning, checking in, managing social calendars, and recognizing unspoken needs—is often thought to be disproportionately handled by women in relationships.

Despite gains in workplace equality, the domestic and emotional scales remain unbalanced at home; however, the caveat seems to be situation-specific, if not also age-related. From the above, we can infer that the complaints are related to individuals with children who require guidance and supervision rather than women seeking casual dating.

The dating scene brings its own set of grievances. Women frequently encounter men who avoid commitment, ghost after months of dating, or engage in emotionally ambiguous “situationships.” Many women describe this as emotionally draining and disorienting, yet men echo these same complaints about women.

Then there’s the matter of objectification.

Far too often, women report feeling

evaluated solely on their appearance or age rather than their intellect, humor, or compatibility. The search for genuine connection becomes clouded by the pressure to present a curated, attractive version of themselves—leaving little room for authenticity. Here, we find another point of contention; it is well known that females evaluate their counterparts based on physical appearance and establish a hierarchy based on hypergamy when selecting a mate. It’s a sword with both sides of the blade sharp and bright.

And in a world where ghosting and manipulation are common, safety and trust remain ever-present concerns. For many women, modern dating is not just a matter of disappointment—it’s wrapped in a cloak of self-preservation.

TECHNOLOGY: THE PROMISE AND THE TRAP If dating apps promised convenience and connection, they’ve delivered something far more complicated. While they offer more access than ever before, they’ve also changed the nature of attraction, dating, and, unfortunately, fraud.

With endless swiping, users develop what psychologists call the “paradox of choice.”

When options are unlimited, commitment becomes harder. People fear settling, also known as the fear of missing out (FOMO) on the best available choice. Their search for a near-perfect match becomes never-ending, leaving a genuine connection to take a backseat to the next swipe.

Statistically, a small percentage of users— typically those who place the highest on the attractive scale—receive the majority of attention. Such reinforcement breeds inequality and resentment among those facing lower matches and responses. The top-tier candidates are inundated with attention, fostering a sense of superiority or entitlement, which translates to economic dysphoria, where millions of members pay higher sums for fewer matches. Only recently have the scale of dating sites become public.

To combat this new information, many companies are touting their use of creating matches through algorithms and personality profiles. Yet, it always comes down to the visual aspect of a prospective mate.

The results indicate emotional fatigue, performative dating, and a sense that true compatibility is nearly impossible to find.

Instead of following outdated scripts, modern relationships are increasingly shaped by shared values, perceived value, politics, wealth, attractiveness, effective communication, and emotional reciprocity.

Couples who succeed today are those who treat each other as equals—not just in financial status, but in effort, attention, and vulnerability.

GENDER DYNAMICS: ALLIES OR OPPONENTS? At the heart of the modern romantic divide is a breakdown in mutual understanding.

Men are feeling rejected and unneeded.

Women often complain about feeling exhausted and being undervalued. Both struggle with communication, and both feel misunderstood.

What used to be a dance of courtship has, in some ways, become a battlefield of expectation. Who texts first? Who pays?

Who commits? Who leads emotionally?

All of this uncertainty breeds defensiveness, causing a retreat from conventional mating practices.

Still, beneath the frustration lies a more profound truth: men and women want love or at least feel like they are in love; this includes being seen, accepted, and supported. This disconnect is not due to a lack of desire—but rather a displacement of emotional tools, clarity, and a shared vision.

IS LOVE STILL POSSIBLE? Absolutely; however, it’s going to look and feel different from what it did in decades past.

Instead of following outdated scripts, modern relationships are increasingly shaped by shared values, perceived value, politics, wealth, attractiveness, effective communication, and emotional reciprocity.

Couples who succeed today are those who treat each other as equals—not just in financial status, but in effort, attention, and vulnerability.

At its core, love is still about partnership.

What’s changing is how that partnership is defined and developed.

THE PATH FORWARD: REDEFINING ROMANCE To move beyond the friend-or-foe dynamic, we need cultural shifts that foster collaboration over competition in relationships. It includes better relationship education—teaching communication, empathy, and emotional regulation as foundational skills.

To survive, we must revive the value of commitment—not as a relic of the past but as a conscious choice rooted in growth and mutual respect. Love doesn’t have to mean losing freedom; it can mean building something enduring with

someone who champions your individual and shared potential.

Finally, we need to remember that compatibility isn’t about perfection—it’s about alignment. Shared goals. Similar pacing. Emotional availability. And above all, mutual effort.

A FINAL WORD Love today isn’t gone—it’s evolving while testing everyone’s patience. And while the journey is more complex, it’s also richer with possibility for those willing to explore it honestly.

Men and women aren‘t natural enemies. But when fear, fatigue, and misunderstanding prevail, it can feel that way. The good news is that connection is still possible—deep, lasting, and meaningful— for those brave enough to ask not “Friend or foe?” but instead: “How can we become allies in love?”H

NEW ENGLAND NEWS + MEDIA | JANUARY 2026 | 45

| TABLE |

As we welcome 2026, the magic of the season comes alive around the table— where laughter flows, glasses clink, and unforgettable meals are shared. Gather the whole family and welcome the New Year with festive feasts made even more special by pairings that delight every palate.

Starting with tender cuts of meat hand-trimmed by master butchers at Omaha Steaks, these dishes from chef David Rose call to mind the extravagant holiday gatherings of yesteryear with modern twists you can claim as your own.

Roasted Chateaubriand with Red Wine Gravy and Lemon-Garlic Asparagus offers a classic taste, while Pepper-Crusted Prime Rib with Creamy Horseradish Sauce and Crushed Potatoes brings some zing to the kitchen. For seafood lovers looking to make a splash at this year’s get-togethers, Crab Stuffed Lobster Tails with Dirty Rice provides a savory, succulent pairing worthy of the season. H

46 | JANUARY 2026 | NEW ENGLAND NEWS + MEDIA

ROASTED CHATEAUBRIAND WITH RED WINE GRAVY AND LEMON-GARLIC ASPARAGUS Preparation: 15 minutes Cook Time: about 90 minutes CHATEAUBRIAND INGREDIENTS Chateaubriand (2-4 pounds) Kosher salt Ground black pepper 1/4 cup grapeseed oil RED WINE GRAVY INGREDIENTS Reserved chateaubriand juices 1 medium shallot, diced small 2 garlic cloves, minced 1 1/2 cups red wine 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour 2 1/2 cups water 2 beef bouillon cubes 1 tablespoon stone ground mustard kosher salt, to taste ground black pepper, to taste LEMON-GARLIC ASPARAGUS INGREDIENTS 1/4 cup olive oil 1 pound jumbo asparagus, stems trimmed, and spears blanched in salted water 1 pinch kosher salt, plus additional, to taste, divided 1 pinch ground black pepper, plus additional, to taste, divided 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes 2 garlic cloves, minced 1/2 lemon, juice only 2 tablespoons unsalted butter CHATEAUBRIAND DIRECTIONS 1. Pat dry with paper towels and season all sides with salt and pepper; bring to room temperature, about 30 minutes.

2. Preheat oven to 250˚ F. 3. In a large cast-iron pan, bring grapeseed oil to high heat.

4. Sear chateaubriand on all sides until golden brown, 2-3 minutes per side.

5. Remove chateaubriand from pan, reserving pan drippings; place the meat on a wire rack-lined baking sheet. Bake according to cooking chart; use meat thermometer.

6. Rest chateaubriand 15-20 minutes.

Slice to desired thickness.

RED WINE GRAVY DIRECTIONS 1. Bring cast-iron pan with reserved chateaubriand drippings to high heat, then add shallots and minced garlic.

Brown 30 seconds.

2. Add red wine and deglaze pan, cooking until reduced by half, about 3 minutes.

3. Reduce heat to medium and whisk in 2 tablespoons butter and flour until all clumps have disappeared and mixture is well-incorporated, 3-4 minutes.

4. Add water and bouillon cubes; bring to boil, then whisk in stone ground mustard.

5. Reduce to low heat and simmer until achieving sauce-like consistency, 7-8 minutes.

6. Season with salt and pepper, to taste.

Turn off heat and whisk in remaining butter until fully melted and emulsified into sauce.

LEMON-GARLIC ASPARAGUS DIRECTIONS 1. In a large saucepan, bring olive oil to medium-high heat.

2. Add asparagus and season with salt, ground black pepper and crushed red pepper flakes. Sear undisturbed about 1 minute.

3. Turn asparagus and add minced garlic, sautéing about 10 seconds. Add lemon juice and continue sautéing until reduced by two-thirds, about 1 minute.

4. Turn off heat and add butter, stirring until emulsified into pan sauce.

Season with salt and ground black pepper, to taste.

Serve chateaubriand with lemon-garlic asparagus and red wine gravy.

NEW ENGLAND NEWS + MEDIA | JANUARY 2026 | 47

CRAB STUFFED LOBSTER TAILS WITH DIRTY RICE Preparation: 15 minutes Cook Time: 30 minutes DIRTY RICE INGREDIENTS 2 cups jasmine rice Water 1/2 cup vegetable oil 1 pound Omaha Steaks Ultra-Premium Ground Beef 1 tablespoon Kosher salt, plus additional, to taste, divided 1 teaspoon black pepper, plus additional, to taste, divided 1 teaspoon garlic powder 2 teaspoons smoked paprika 2 tablespoons unsalted butter 1 medium red bell pepper, diced small 2 green onions, minced 1 cup yellow onion, diced small 1/2 cup tomato-based sofrito 3 1/2 cups chicken broth 48 | JANUARY 2026 | NEW ENGLAND NEWS + MEDIA

CRAB STUFFING INGREDIENTS 3/4 cup mayonnaise 2 teaspoons seafood seasoning 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce 1/2 lemon, juice only 20 butter crackers, finely crushed 1 pound jumbo lump crab meat CRAB STUFFED LOBSTER INGREDIENTS 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted 1 teaspoon Kosher salt 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice Lobster tails; halved lengthwise DIRTY RICE DIRECTIONSS 1. Rinse jasmine rice with water until water is clear.

2. In a large saucepot, bring vegetable oil to medium-high heat.

3. Add ground beef, 1 tablespoon salt, 1 teaspoon black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika; sauté 5 minutes until browned.

4. Using a slotted spoon, remove browned beef and set aside.

5. Add butter to the pot then add red bell pepper, green onions and yellow onions. Sauté 2 minutes until lightly caramelized.

6. Add sofrito and jasmine rice to pot; sauté 1 minute. Add cooked ground beef and chicken stock; bring to a boil.

Once mixture boils, reduce heat to simmer 10 minutes. Turn off heat and leave lid on pot 5 minutes. Fluff rice with fork and season with salt and pepper, to taste.

CRAB STUFFING DIRECTIONS 1. In a medium bowl, whisk mayonnaise, seafood seasoning, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce and lemon juice.

2. Gently fold in crushed butter crackers and crab meat. Set aside.

3. Preheat oven to 425˚ F. 4. Stir melted butter, salt, and lemon juice.

Brush lobster tails with butter mixture.

5. Divide crab stuffing into eight portions.

Stuff each lobster tail half with crab stuffing, pressing stuffing into lobster.

Place stuffed lobster tails on aluminum foil-lined sheet pan and bake 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown.

Serve with dirty rice.

PEPPER-CRUSTED PRIME RIB WITH CREAMY HORSERADISH SAUCE AND CRUSHED POTATOES Preparation: 10 minutes Cook Time: about 2 1/2 hours CREAMY HORSERADISH SAUCE INGREDIENTS 15 ounces sour cream 1/3 cup mayonnaise 2 tablespoons horseradish 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar 2 tablespoons minced fresh chives 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice 1 teaspoon hot sauce 1/2 teaspoon Kosher salt, plus additional, to taste, divided 1/2 teaspoon white pepper, plus additional, to taste, divided 1/4 teaspoon onion powder 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika PEPPER RUB INGREDIENTS 3 tablespoons Kosher salt 1 tablespoon ground peppercorn medley 2 teaspoons ground guajillo chili 1 teaspoon dried thyme leaves PRIME RIB INGREDIENTS Prime Rib Roast (4-6 pounds) Pepper rub 1/4 cup grapeseed oil CRUSHED POTATOES INGREDIENTS 1 pound baby red skin potatoes 1 pinch Kosher salt, plus additional, to taste 1/4 cup olive oil 2 garlic cloves, minced 2 tablespoons Italian parsley, finely minced Ground black pepper

CREAMY HORSERADISH SAUCE DIRECTIONS In a medium bowl, whisk sour cream, mayonnaise, horseradish, vinegar, chives, Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, hot sauce, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, and paprika. Season with additional salt and white pepper, to taste.

PEPPER RUB DIRECTIONS In small bowl, stir salt, peppercorns, chili, and thyme.

PRIME RIB DIRECTIONS 1. Pat dry with paper towels, and season on all sides with pepper rub; bring to room temperature, about 30 minutes.

2. Preheat oven to 250˚ F. 3. In a large cast-iron pan, bring grapeseed oil to medium-high heat.

4. Sear prime rib on all sides until golden brown, 2-3 minutes per side.

5. Place seared prime rib on wire racklined baking sheet. Bake according to cooking chart, use meat thermometer.

Cook until internal temperature is 10˚ F below desired temperature.

6. Rest prime rib 15-20 minutes, then slice.

CRUSHED POTATOES DIRECTIONS 1. Preheat oven to 425˚ F. 2. Add potatoes to a stockpot and cover with cold water, add 1 pinch salt.

Over high heat, boil 8-10 minutes or until fork tender. Drain and cool with running cold water.

3. Carefully crush potatoes with palms (until skin breaks) and potatoes are slightly crushed.

4. In a medium bowl, whisk olive oil, garlic, and parsley.

5. Place crushed potatoes on aluminum foil-lined baking sheet and toss lightly with olive oil mixture. Season potatoes on both sides with Kosher salt and ground black pepper, to taste. Roast potatoes until crisped and golden brown, 15-17 minutes.

Serve prime rib with crushed potatoes and creamy horseradish sauce.

Resource: Omaha Steaks, provided

by Family Features

NEW ENGLAND NEWS + MEDIA | JANUARY 2026 | 49

Calling All Skiers, Riders, Snow-Shoers, Skaters, and, of course, Snow Bunnies.

As usual, we’re up north this winter and are planning to shoot a cover and story about a ‘Model-Day’ on the mountain.

No experience necessary, just a good look and a pleasant personality.

Whether you participate in winter sports or are coming up for a girls’ weekend, we want to talk to you.

To learn more about this exciting opportunity, send an email or text and introduce yourself and your friends; there is a good chance you’ll all be our Model(s) of the Month this winter.

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PROFESSIONAL PHOTOGRAPHY FROM NEW YORK RUNWAYS TO NEW ENGLAND COASTLINES

DAY TRIPPING!

Catch a fast, fun, safe trip to beautiful Cuttyhunk Island on board the M/V Cuttyhunk!

• Depart from New Bedford’s historic waterfront; a short walk to downtown New Bedford’s many restaurants, boutique shops, museums & galleries.

• Enjoy the gorgeous views of Buzzards Bay as you make your way to the laid back island of Cuttyhunk.

• Friday Night Sunset Cruises! Breathtaking scenery, comfortable accommodations, not to be missed excursion.

66B State Pier, South Bulkhead New Bedford, MA 508.992.0200

CuttyhunkFerryco.com *WINTER: OCTOBER 14, 2025-APRIL 27, 2026 Depart New Bedford SUN

MON

TUE

WED

THU

9 AM

FRI

SAT

9 AM

Depart Cuttyhunk SUN

MON 2 PM

TUE

WED

THU

FRI

SAT

2 PM

* CALL FOR ADDITIONAL HOLIDAY TRIPS

WEATHER NOTE: IF SEVERE WEATHER IS PREDICTED, IT IS ADVISABLE TO CALL IN ADVANCE OF DEPARTURE FOR POSSIBLE SCHEDULING CHANGES. 508.992.0200 RESERVATIONS ARE REQUIRED FOR ALL PASSENGERS AND FREIGHT To get a ticket you must have a reservation through our online reservation system. No charge for children 2 years and younger. The office must be notified at the time of ticket purchase about each child 2 years and under that will be traveling with you, in order to accurately count all persons on board the vessel.

Dogs, on leash, are welcome at no charge. For non-web or special group payments and for check, cash or different form of payment, please email reservations@cuttyhunkferryco.com or call 508.992.0200.

You can leave a message and your reservation will be held.