Heart and Soul

Alexandra Breckenridge carries the emotional weight of Netflix’s hit series Virgin River as a woman determined to embrace motherhood. Alexandra Breckenridge as Mel Monroe in episode 6×07 of Virgin River. Courtesy of Netflix As the old standard Ella Fitzgerald song reminds us, “Into each life some rain must fall.” But when it comes to Mel Monroe’s journey to motherhood in Virgin River, Alexandra Breckenridge believes the storm has lasted long enough. When the hit Netflix series debuted in December 2019, viewers met Melinda “Mel” Monroe, a nurse practitioner and midwife who...

Parenting Guide 2026

Raising a family involves navigating every stage of life—from early childhood and school years to caring for aging loved ones and supporting unique needs along the way. This special Parenting Guide brings together valuable resources and expert insights to help families thrive. Explore ideas for family fun, educational enrichment, senior living solutions, special needs support and health care services designed to strengthen and enrich your family’s journey. Family Fun: A Gift for Children’s Growth by Giana Scafide Taking time to travel with the people who love us is something we all value—those...

Why Everybody Still Loves Ray Romano

Even as his career takes him in different directions, the show that made him a star 30 years ago continues to resonate with fans of all ages. When stand-up comic Ray Romano was offered his own prime-time sitcom in the summer of 1996, it was a big career step. Not only did he not feel like it was a sure thing—he was terrified. Romano and series creator Phil Rosenthal still remember taking the pilot for Everybody Loves Raymond to major TV markets, simply hoping it would connect. Instead of merely igniting a spark, it became one of television’s most beloved comedies, winning 15 Emmys and...