LOCALadk Magazine

LOCALadk 7 Contents Contents LOCALadk LOCALadk 10 Creative Healing Connections: Changing Lives Through Community Helene and Sydney share how Creative Healing Connections has transformed lives for nearly three decades by fostering healing through nature, art, and community. Meet the women whose stories reveal the power of shared experience, discover the organization's innovative year-long wellness program, and learn how local support helps make lasting healing possible. 14 Running The Wakely Dam Ultra Blaine reflects on the ever-changing answer to a trail runner's simple question: "Why? " Through two un- forgettable experiences at the Wakely Dam Ultra, he explores how the Adirondacks' oldest ultramarathon offers far more than miles. It reveals the power of solitude, resilience, and the remarkable community that keeps runners coming back. 16 The Adirondack Dark Sky Underground George reveals why the Adirondacks have become one of the Northeast's true havens for stargazers. Blending science, personal reflection, and conversations with astronomers and educators, he explores how preser ving dark skies reconnects us with nature, wonder, and a perspective too often lost beneath the glow of artificial light. 22 Epic Journey: Climbing the Sangre de Cristo Mountains Phil shares the thrills, challenges, and breathtaking beauty of climbing Colorado's rugged Sangre de Cristo Mountains. Follow his unforgettable ascents of iconic 14,000 -foot peaks, where exposed ridges, technical climbing, and high-altitude perseverance combine to create epic adventures and lasting memories far above the treeline. 26 This Could Be Something: On Crafting and the Art of Noticing Alison explores how creativity begins with paying attention. Through the evolving craft of Burl Theor y, she reflects on finding inspiration in Adirondack landscapes, embracing imperfections, and discovering the qui- et joy of making something by hand — one thoughtful piece, and one moment of wonder, at a time. 26 The Adirondack Statesman Paul profiles the remarkable life of Charles Evans Hughes, the Glens Falls statesman whose devotion to public ser vice helped shape New York, the nation, and the Adirondacks. Discover how his leadership, conser- vation efforts, and enduring principles left a legacy that still offers lessons for America today. 32 Béla Bartók and the Healing Power of Saranac Lake John invites readers to discover how world-renowned composer Béla Bartók found more than medical treatment during his summers in Saranac Lake. Amid exile, illness, and the quiet beauty of the Adirondacks, Bartók created some of his greatest works, leaving behind a remarkable legacy that Historic Saranac Lake continues to preser ve and share today. 34 Following the Flow: Inside the Mind of Trail Builder Luke Peduzzi Patrick celebrates the hidden artistr y of trail building through the lens of Luke Peduzzi's work in the Adiron- dacks. Discover how thoughtful design, respect for the landscape, and a passion for outdoor experiences combine to create trails that inspire adventure, challenge, and lasting connections to the natural world.

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