Issuu

Holiday Gifting and Winter Revelry D E C E M B E R 2 022

When Life Gets Legal SM SM When Life Gets Legal A full-service firm, here for you in Westfield

Afull-service full-servicefirm, firm, here in Westfield A here forfor youyou in Northampton

Here’s A Tip!

Chip Smith

Jonathan Breton

Did you know that Massachusetts has some of the strongest consumer protection laws in the country? Massachusetts’ consumer protection statute, M.G.L. c. 93A, prohibits businesses from “unfair and deceptive trade practices.” This broad term has no set definition, and various other state laws and regulations make some acts by businesses per se violations. The law can lead to effective relief for consumers, and large liabilities for business. But it can also be quite complex and confusing to navigate for consumers and business alike. Whether you’re a local business owner wondering how best to account for these regulations and consumer protections (whether proactively or in assessing a difficult circumstance), or a consumer who feels they’ve been on the receiving end of unfair or deceptive conduct, professional legal advice from experienced practitioners is essential in effectively asserting your rights.

Daniel McKellick SM

When Jonathan Life Gets Legal Daniel McKellick Breton Comprehensive Services: A full-service firm, hereLegal for you in Westfield Comprehensive Legal Services: ·Civil & Criminal Litigation ·Residential Real Estate Chip Smith

· ·Landlord/Tenant Civil & Criminal Litigation · Law ·Employment Landlord/Tenant · Compensation ·Workers’ Employment Law ·Workers’ Compensation

· RealEstate Estate ·Commercial Residential Real · & Commercial ·Banking Commercial Real EstateFinance · Corporate Finance ·Business Banking &&Commercial ·Business & Corporate

Tip from Attorney Dan McKellick Tip from Attorney Dan McKellick Chip Smith Jonathan Breton

Daniel McKellick

Have you thought about the future of your business after retirement? Whether you own a small business, large business, or a family business, it is important to take the time to prepare a business succession plan. Having a Have you thought about the future of your business after retirement? Whether you own a small business, large succession plan in place helps business owners plan for the future and allows a smoother transition into retirement business, or a family business, it is important to take the time to prepare a business succession plan. Having a while promoting the company’s growth. A properly-prepared succession plan means a business owner can protect their succession plan in place helps business owners plan for the future and allowsReal a smoother transition into retirement ·Civil Criminal ·Residential Estatethat legacy, and can often&benefit from Litigation correcting or modifying tax structure. Even for businesses have been operating while promoting the company’s growth. A properly-prepared succession plan means a business owner can protect their for many years, it is never too late to start planning. Our attorneys can work with you through a step-by-step process to ·Landlord/Tenant ·Commercial Estate legacy, and can often benefit from correcting or modifying tax structure. Even for Real businesses that have been operating help you prepare for retirement and ensure the continued success of your business. ·Employment Law ·Banking & Commercial for many years, it is never too late to start planning. Our attorneys can work with you through a Finance step-by-step process to help you prepare for retirement and ensure the continued success of your business. ·Workers’ Compensation ·Business & Corporate

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TipWESTFIELD from Attorney Dan AMHERST McKellick SPRINGFIELD HADLEY

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Packard’s serves a variety of dishes with locally sourced fresh ingredients. A large selection of local and domestic beer on tap and in bottle. A full bar with seasonally changing cocktails and mocktails. Three floors of pool tables and more. Gift cards are available for the holiday season! 14 Masonic Street • (413) 584-5957 • www.packardsnorthampton.com • V

December 2022 PUBLISHER

Candice Berube | candice.berube@citylifestyle.com SOCIAL MEDIA COOR DINATOR

LIFESTYLE LETTER

Madeline LeBlanc | madeline.leblanc@citylifestyle.com

It’s the most wonderful time of year!

AD DESIGNER

As the days shorten, and fall dwindles to an end, we usher winter in with all the festiveness of the holidays. Holiday cheer takes so many forms, and we're here at Northampton City Lifestyle to help you find new ways to enjoy the most wonderful time of year! Our Local Experiences page is the first place to start when looking for local traditions and events. Whether it's a day at The Nutcracker or a 5k Hot Chocolate Run, you're sure to find something to do. And while you're out and about, if you haven't popped into Rebekah Brooks on Main Street, be sure to do so this holiday season. Whether you're looking for that perfect custom made piece or searching for a vintage-inspired gift, make this downtown jewelry store your first stop! Are you like me - busier than you'd like, but you still want to shop local with the convenience of Amazon? Michelle Wirth had a dream to provide just that! She partnered with local retailers (numbers of which continue to grow), and founded her site feelgoodshoplocal.com! Visit our Gift Guide to get a peek into 3 of the vendors featured on her site. And the best news? You can shop those exact items via the link provided - happy gifting! We love motivating and inspiring through our stories and features, and we hope this month's issue makes your holidays a little brighter! We continue to invite our readers to reach out and let us know what's important to the community! Please feel free to call or email me at any time. Oh, and don't forget to tag us on social @westfield_northampton_cl, and you may just find your picture in our next issue of Northampton City Lifestyle.

CONTR IBUTING PHOTOGR APHER S

Matthew Endersbe LAYOUT DESIGNER

Kirstan Lanier CONTR IBUTING WR ITER S

Madeline LeBlanc, Maureen Sullivan

Hannah Josephine Photography, Kat Kattler Photography, Alex Sieracki

Corporate Team CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Randy Radosevich DIRECTOR OF SOCIAL MEDIA Mindy Hargesheimer ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson AD MANAGER Chad Jensen WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell

Yours in health,

CANDICE BERUBE, PUBLISHER @WESTFIELD_ NORTHAMPTON _CL

Learn how to start your own publication at: citylifestyle.com//franchise

Scan QR code to visit our Instagram CIT YLIFEST YLE.COM/NORTHAMPTON |

Proverbs 3:5-6 Northampton City Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Northampton area’s most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in Northampton City Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources

L I F E ST Y LE LE T T E R

considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

TIMELESS DESIGNS, LOCALLY HANDMADE

413.584.0905 | REBEKAHBROOKS.COM NORTHAMPTON & CAMBRIDGE

Paving a path for women in the auto industry.

Lindsey Drozdal DIRECTOR

Carla Cosenzi President, TommyCar Auto

At TommyCar Auto, our goal is to pave a path for a new generation of women to come. We pride ourselves on inspiring and mentoring women in automotive careers and in non-traditional roles. We're so proud to have some of the best women in the business drive our success.

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D ECEMBER 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/N ORT HA M P TO N

DECEMBER 2022

inside the issue The Holiday & Giving Issue

F E ATU R E D

D E PA RTM E NTS

12 Feel Good Shop Local

Lifestyle Letter

City Scene

Local Experiences

Gift Guide

Local Limelight

Giving Back

Events

Culinary Creations

The new online marketplace for local gift ideas

22 Rebekah Brooks

Designing a personalized jewelry experience

26 The City Lifestyle Giving Campaign

S HO PPI NG S HO PPI NG

LI FE + C U LT U R E

FO O D + B EV ER AGE

34 Cookie Swap Idea Oreo Cheesecake Cookies

Welcome to the #Route10Corridor Article & Monthly @HelloFoodReviews Column featuring Hot Spots from Westfield to Northampton!

O N T H E C OV E R

Photography: Hannah Josephine Photography Featuring Rebekah Brooks in her showroom

THE CLUB THAT OFFERS YOU

MORE ENHANCING HEALTHY HABITS IN EVERY WAY + Strength & Weight Training + Cardio Equipment including Peloton® Bikes + 40-ft. Indoor Rock Climbing Wall + Group Fitness Classes + Steam Room & Sauna + Indoor Basketball Court + Child Care Services

Celebrating Our 40th Anniversary

Exclusive New Member Offer:

Monthly Membership: $40 – or –

1-Year Membership: $400 (Offer valid through 12.31.22)

WWW.NOHOAC.COM (413) 585-8500 306 KING STREET NORTHAMPTON

DECEMBER 2022

city scene

Where neighbors can see and be seen. 1

7 5

1: Fort Hill Road, Easthampton, MA. Photo Submission by James Sullivan. 2: Baker’s Assistant at Haymarket Cafe presenting the day’s wares. Photo Submission by James Sullivan. 3: Rachel Brask Studio’s art on display at the Paradise City Arts Festival. 4: Furry family members are always welcome at Abandoned Building Brewery. 5: Ernesto Maranje’s mural on the back of Thornes Marketplace is complete. 6: Grab yourself a poke bowl or boba tea at Pokemoto Northampton on Main St. 7: Friday afternoon flight landing at the Northampton Airport. Photo Submission James Sullivan.

Want to be seen in the magazine? Tag your Instagram photos with @Westfield_Northampton_CL

C I T Y SC E N E

FAMILY OWNED AND OPERATED Serving the community since 1976

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We are local Realtors with a nationally recognized practice. Do you live near a rail trail? Thinking of selling? Give us a call to schedule a get together. (413) 575-2277 www.northamptonrealtor.com 7 Main Street Florence Village Ctr, Massachusetts 01062

D ECEMBER 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/N ORT HA M P TO N

DECEMBER 2022

local experiences The best places and things to do in our area.

Experience the tastes, sounds and sights of what our area has to offer this season. We curated a list of ways to celebrate the holidays and usher in the new year in our city. Enjoy!

Winter Celebrations LOOK PAR K: Visit Look Park and take a ride on Santa's Train, see Santa & Mrs.

Claus, or enjoy a forest of holiday trees and model trains. 300 N Main Street, Florence, MA ACADEMY OF MUSIC: A delight for the whole family! Celebrating its 50th year, Pioneer Valley Ballet presents The Nutcracker, an annual favorite at The Academy of Music. 274 Main Street, Northampton, MA YANKEE CANDLE VILLAGE: The Yankee Candle Village in South Deerfield is a local destination for all things Christmas including the thousands of ornaments, Santa's Workshop, and more. 25 Greenfield Road, South Deerfield, MA HOT CHOCOLATE R UN: Participants join us year after year to run a 5K course and support Safe Passage, providing important programs for survivors of domestic violence. Main Street, Northampton, MA NOR THAMPTON AR TS COUNCIL: The 38th annual First Night Northampton is a 12-hour, family-friendly festival of the arts, and includes fireworks, ball-raising, and entertainment. 240 Main Street, Northampton, MA

Scan for more photos and the full list. Academy of Music

Want to recommend a local experience? Scan the QR code and message us on Instagram.

LOCA L E X P E R IE N C E S

VISIT OUR TAPROOM Wednesday 4pm - 9pm Thursday 4pm - 9pm Friday 4pm - 10pm Saturday 12pm - 10pm Sunday 1pm - 7pm

We are now taking reservations for private events for 2023. Visit website for details.

• 413.203.2537 • ABANDONEDBUILDINGBREWERY.COM 142 Pleasant St., Easthampton, MA 01027

the long game Teaching, Training, & Coaching for Longevity by Jim Lobley MA, CPT

Public Lecture #3: Up Your Game - Improve Your Balance!

How to train your balance for sport and life Forbes Library - Community Room Sat, Dec 10 @ 10:30am Tues, Dec 13 @ 6pm Free; limited space; register online!

thelonggame.coach D ECEMBER 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/N ORT HA M P TO N

Michelle Wirth, Founder & CEO of Feel Good Shop Local

G IF T GU ID E | SHOPPIN G

feel good shop local The new online marketplace for local gift ideas

What if there was a place online where you could shop locally – one website that featured a variety of products and services from local businesses, especially during the holiday shopping season? As a busy mother of four with a full-time job, Michelle Wirth longed for something like this while stuck at home during the height of Covid and having no choice but to do her shopping online. Like other women, busy with careers and families, she was looking for convenience. Michelle searched the internet for a site like Amazon, but one that offered all local products and services. There wasn’t one. That’s when she decided she was going to build that website and feelgoodshoplocal.com was born. “There are so many wonderful businesses in our region – the challenge is knowing they exist and being able to shop them on-the-go and from anywhere in a fun and convenient way. I took the best experiences I had shopping online and put them into Feel Good Shop Local,” Michelle said. While Feel Good Shop Local is new, it’s growing, with more businesses steadily being added to the site. Michelle wants to expand and offer more flavor and variety, featuring businesses from Hampden, Hampshire, Franklin, and even Berkshire counties. “We’re adding new stores with unique products and we’re constantly refreshing the site,” she said. We’re encouraging people to shop local first. Not finding what you are looking for? Please recommend stores/products you’d like to see there.” The site is focused on consumer lifestyle goods and services. Shoppers can find clothing, jewelry, skin care, wellness services, food, local artisan products and more.

Michelle said she is focused on making Feel Good Shop Local as useful as possible to sellers and customers. For customers, it offers the ease of shopping locally when they can’t get to a brick-and-mortar location, and in the middle of holiday gift-giving season, the website offers a local gift guide with suggestions for everyone on your list – from family and friends to pets, co-workers and teachers. Feel Good Shop Local goes a step further to make shopping easy for customers who can shop by occasion, by interest, and by price. For those who want to shop businesses that align with their values, there is a category for that, too. Making the shopping experience even easier, Feel Good Shop Local’s editors offer a selection of their favorite picks from local businesses. “We all know the importance of shopping locally, Michelle said, but I am not sure everyone knows the impact it has – the goods I’m purchasing are supporting my neighbor. Having a platform like this creates a sense of community. People want to know from whom they are buying.” For businesses, Michelle says Feel Good Shop Local is a marketing and service platform, “Whether sellers already have a website or not, we provide them the opportunity to expand their reach by selling beyond their typical geography and allow folks to shop them even when their ‘doors’ are closed. I built this site as an always-on alternate revenue stream for them, and a curated platform to shop and discover local businesses for shoppers.” feelgoodshoplocal.com

ARTICLE BY MAUREEN SULLIVAN | PHOTOGRAPHY BY KAT KATTLER PHOTOGRAPHY & ALEX SIERACKI CONTINUED > D ECEMBER 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/N ORT HA M P TO N

Lexi Wright, Owner & Founder High Five Books

G IF T GU ID E | SHOPPIN G

high five books Imagine a cozy space where caretakers and their little people are invited to read, create, play, & linger together. Now place it in adorable downtown Florence, right off the bike path. High Five Books is the neighborhood go-to for new board & picture books, early- and middle-grade readers, YA books & graphic novels. They also sell art kits and other creative supplies. Visit feelgoodshoplocal.com/store/high-five-books to purchase any of the following gifts.

12 Month Sticker Planner + Pen - $45

Wings of Fire Graphic Novel Set - $76

Flamingo Bingo Bundle - $30

Mo Willems Picture Book + Toy - $45

Witch Boy Trilogy - $42

Hansel and Gretel Book and Play Set - $30

Little Pocket Pal Sewing Project - $14

Pioneer Valley Authors Book Bundle - $62

Heartstopper Book Series with coloring book - $80 CONTINUED > D ECEMBER 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/N ORT HA M P TO N

Josh Hannon, Owner & Founder of Hannon Made

G IF T GU ID E | SHOPPIN G

hannon made Hannon Made is a woodworking company founded by craftsman Josh Hannon, a self-taught wood worker with over a decade of experience. Every piece from Hannon Made is individually crafted in his Greenfield, MA workshop. Quality and durability are just as important as the aesthetics of each piece created. Each board of wood is hand-selected from local lumber yards by Josh himself, then brought to his shop, milled, and worked to create the pieces. Although some pieces may have a twin, no two pieces are exactly the same. Visit feelgoodshoplocal. com/store/hannonmade to purchase any of the following gifts.

Wine Caddies - $25

Hand-held Bottle Opener - $22

Wall-mounted Bottle Opener - $39

Tea Light Candle Holder - $25

Coasters (set of 2) - $22

Tear Drop Cutting Board - $59

Medium Cutting Board - $59

Square Cutting Board - $59

Large Cutting Board - $78 CONTINUED > D ECEMBER 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/N ORT HA M P TO N

Jen Horn & Kristen Carty, Founders of Feather & Bloom

G IF T GU ID E | SHOPPIN G

feather & bloom Feather & Bloom is a locally-owned hometown florist, plant and gift shop in Suffield, CT, specializing in unique blooms, locally-sourced handcrafted goods, sustainable + eco-friendly products and lovely houseplants. Feather & Bloom prides themselves on being women in business, supporting local women, local makers and community events. They love to collaborate with other small businesses in the local Massachusetts and Connecticut area. Visit feelgoodshoplocal.com/store/feather-and-bloom to purchase any of the following gifts.

Camo Cashmere Blend Scarf - $35 & The “Keep You Really Warm” Hat - $35

Tartan Plaid Blanket & Gnome Gift Set - $65

Sassy Candle Gift Set - $60

New Baby Gift Set - $28

Tea Lovers Gift Set - $65

Pink & Wine Gift Set - $98

Gratitude Kit - $35

Live Well Lavender Gift Bundle - $65

Flower Press Kit - $55

D ECEMBER 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/N ORT HA M P TO N

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Not affiliated with the Federal Medicare Program. This is a solicitation for insurance. Submitting information or calling numbers listed on this website will direct you to a licensed Agent/Broker. Important disclosures about Medicare Plans: Medicare has neither endorsed nor reviewed this information. Not connected or affiliated with any United States Government or State agency. We do not offer every plan available in your area. Any information we provide is limited to those plans we do offer in your area. Please contact Medicare.gov or 1-800-MEDICARE to get information on all of your options.

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50 GREEN ST NORTHAMPTON, MA D ECEMBER 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/N ORT HA M P TO N

Rebekah Brooks, Proprietor

DESIGNING A PERSONALIZED JEWELRY EXPERIENCE

rebekah brooks ARTICLE BY MAUREEN SULLIVAN | PHOTOGRAPHY BY HANNAH JOSEPHINE PHOTOGRAPHY

LOCA L LIM E LIGH T | SHOPPI NG

Rebekah and staff

As much as the jewelry she designs, Rebekah Brooks loves the connections she makes with her clients. “We get to be involved in the biggest milestones in people’s lives,” she said. From engagement and wedding rings to anniversary, birthday - and especially at this time of year – holiday gifts, Rebekah and her team of skilled jewelers craft handmade original designs, create custom jewelry, and set every stone for engagement rings. Most of their diamonds are antiques - a niche in terms of diamond rings, as are the low-profile wearable rings they create. Most other types of rings are made in China, Rebekah noted. Almost every piece is made locally by hand. They also restore antique pieces, repair jewelry, and remount diamond rings. Recently, a woman who was getting married brought in a photograph of her grandmother, taken in the 1930s. In the photograph her grandmother is wearing a necklace that the bride wished she had to wear on her wedding day. Rebekah was able to recreate the necklace. The studio uses CAD (computer-aided design). Like the necklace recreated from a photograph, they can take a customer’s idea and make exactly what they want. In addition to the flagship Rebekah Brooks store and studio on Main St. in Northampton, there are stores in Boston and in Harvard Square, Cambridge. The Cambridge store attracts a diverse clientele because of its proximity to Harvard University. “One customer at the Harvard Square store was an African Princess, and we made her engagement and wedding band in the tradition of her family heritage,” Rebekah said. The studio also engraves on memorial pieces and even on urns. “It’s very spiritual, the work we do,” Rebekah said. “We really are an old-fashioned jeweler,” said Rebekah, noting her focus on longtime clients and building relationships with generations of families. “We’re that kind of classic jewelry business,” she added, but with one exception – Rebekah is a female jeweler, which is something like being a rare gemstone in the business.

CONTINUED >

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“Jewelry binds all cultures because it’s the oldest currency we have.”

Rebekah Brooks, Owner & Proprietor

With an undergraduate degree in design, and a GIA degree from the Gemological Institute of America, Rebekah worked as an apprentice for several jewelers before founding her own jewelry business in 1998 out of her small loft apartment In Brooklyn. From a young age, Rebekah said, she loved jewelry. Coming from a family of artists – her parents are sculptors and other family members are fashion designers; Rebekah sees designing jewelry as a family tradition. After years of selling jewelry to boutiques around the world, the company evolved when Rebekah and her family moved to Western Massachusetts, where she opened her first store in Thornes Marketplace. In 2020, the Northampton store expanded and moved across the street to a space large enough for both retail and studio. Rebekah’s passion for designing jewelry goes beyond simply creating an individual piece. “Jewelry binds all cultures because it’s the oldest currency we have,” she said. She wants people to know about the traditions of jewelry, the longevity of the investment, and how for future generations, it will always have value. Rebekah points out that while most material things, such as cars, will not last into the future, jewelry will. “It’s much more valuable than what you have in the bank,” she said. She empowers clients by educating them about the meaning and value of jewelry. “If we can’t keep this trade alive and pass it down, we’re in trouble,” Rebekah said, noting that it can’t be learned in college. It is for this reason she teaches this age-old craft of making jewelry to young people, bringing in apprentices to learn the trade in her studio. “Hopefully they will keep passing it down,” she added.

REBEKAH BROOKS 147 Main Street, Northampton 413-584-0905 | rebekahbrooks.com

LOCA L LIM E LIGH T | SHOPPI NG

HOLIDAY ENTERTAINING MADE EASY FOR YOU. GIVE US A CALL. SCAN FOR MORE INFO.

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The City Lifestyle

Giving Campaign Now in its third year, the City Lifestyle Giving Campaign will give away $300,000 this holiday season to help individual community members who would benefit from a helping hand during their time of need. But they need YOUR HELP to make it happen! Maybe you know of a single parent struggling to provide, an elderly person who has experienced loss, a child enduring a health issue, a co-worker suffering a sudden, unexpected tragedy or a neighbor with a financial hardship who has fallen between the cracks of getting assistance. Chances are you know someone with a specific need—even if nobody else does. To preserve and protect the dignity of every recipient, the City Lifestyle Giving Campaign is completely confidential. No identities will be revealed or publicized in ANY way. (Even those who nominate others may remain anonymous if they choose.) Last year, City Lifestyle was able to give to more than 70 recipients all over the country by sending checks in the mail through New Year’s Eve. (This year, the goal is to double that number with checks ranging in amount up to $3,000 each.) With nominations flooding in from community members and leaders such as judges, police officers, teachers, nurses, social workers, mentors and readers like you, we were able to reach people who might otherwise go unnoticed. “We believe in giving back and serving the communities where we live in a real and tangible way,” says Steven Schowengerdt, CEO and founder of City Lifestyle. “This Giving Campaign is all about personally impacting the lives of people we know with an unexpected check in the mail just to say that someone thought of them this holiday season.” Together with Matthew Perry, Chief Sales Officer, Steven adds that the outpouring and gratitude from the recipients was overwhelming and affirmed that this is a tradition they want to continue. “We believe God has blessed our company with continued success,” Matthew adds, “so we in turn want to be a blessing to others.” City Lifestyle has also enacted an internal giving program whereby every employee in the company receives $100 to give away to someone in the community. “The idea is to encourage our employees to keep doing it on their own,” Steven says. “Taking care of one another and blessing others is so rewarding that it perpetuates a cycle of giving. It’s extremely important to me as a person and as a company to foster that culture of generosity.”

G IV IN G BAC K | L IFE + CULTURE

“This Giving Campaign is all about personally impacting the lives of people we know with an unexpected check in the mail just to say that someone thought of them this holiday season.”

W here ha s t he c a mpa ig n g i f t e d?

Scan Code to

Nominate between Dec. 1 – 15, 2022

Follow @citylifestyle on Instagram for reminders! To submit a nomination, follow @citylifestyle on Instagram and fill out the form found in the bio link. All entries will be read, and because this is not a raffle, there is no need to nominate someone more than once. The amount given to each recipient will be based on need. D ECEMBER 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/N ORT HA M P TO N

So you’ve finally hit the big Five-O. Where did the years go? Have you saved enough? Are your investments in the right place? Are your legal documents and estate planning up to snuff? Do you know where you stand as you enter the Next Phase of your Financial Life? Whether you are in your fifties, sixties or seventy and beyond, you deserve the peace of mind that comes from having the right plan in place for a secure retirement. Call the Wealth Technology Group and schedule a 30 minute free review and start on the path for a more secure future.

Please call us at (800) 266-6793 today! And Remember...It’s not what you make, it’s what you keep!

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We are an independent repair facility specializing in Honda and Acura vehicles. We also perform general repair & diagnostics on other Asian market vehicles

413-584-1345 | AandHAutoRepairs.com 222 N King St., #2 • Northampton 28

Your lo cal f ull ser vic e re sident ial and c ommercial plumbing, heat ing, and c o oling c ompany sinc e the 1950’s . Our c ombine d e x p erienc e allow s us to handle any thing f rom small plumbing or H VAC ser vic e calls to large c ommercial pro je c t s including water heater s , plumbing f i x ture ins tallat ion, gas piping, b oiler s , c entral AC, mini-spli t s , and more! Call us today and one of our office staff would be happy to assist you.

413-527-3240

boulangersplumbing.com

Are you sick & tired of being sick & tired? Taking Pre-Orders for our Christmas Pies and Dinners to Go!

99 Main Street Florence | 413.584.3137 www.imissflorencediner.com

Call Today for Your

Consultation

MONDAY - FRIDAY 7-3p • SATURDAY 7:30-3p • SUNDAY 8-2p

Do You: > Gain Weight Easily > Have Digestive Gas and Bloating > Lack Energy & Feel Lethargic > Suffer From Headaches > Have Muscle & Joint Ache During Normal Daily Activity

413.569.1155 | www.repairmyhealth.com 3 LOCATIONS:

> 384 Main Street Easthampton, MA 01027 > 208 College Hwy, Ste F, Southwick MA 01077 > 625 New Park Ave, Unit B, West Hartford, CT 06110

D ECEMBER 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/N ORT HA M P TO N

DECEMBER 2022

events A curated selection of the most intriguing upcoming events in our area.

DE C E M BE R 3 RD

Lowbrow Craft Fair

FIRST CHUR CHES OF N ORTHA MP TO N, 1 29 MA I N ST, NO RT H A MP TO N | 1 0 :0 0 A M Come join 25+ artists and crafters with a wide range of unique, quirky, fun handmade goods for a craft fair unlike any other in the Valley. 10am-4pm. Visit facebook.com/lowbrowcraftfair for more information.

D EC E M BE R 4 T H

Hot Chocolate Run

H AMPTON AVEN UE AN D OLD S O UT H ST R E E T, NO RT H A MP TO N | 9 :0 0 A M The Hot Chocolate Run is a community celebration of Safe Passage, the Hampshire County organization addressing domestic violence. Sign up to run, walk, or volunteer. To register, visit p2p.onecause.com/hcr2022/home or contact Amber or Natalie, 413-586-1125, hotchocolaterun@safepass.org.

DE C E M BE R 9 T H

Arts Night Out

DOW N TOWN N ORTHAMPTON | 5 :0 0 P M Northampton's monthly gallery walk + art event takes place the second Friday of every month. View the latest listings on the Downtown Northampton Association's website: northamptondna.com/artsnightoutevents.

DE C E M BE R 9 T H

Santa's Train at Look Memorial Park

3 00 N ORTH MAIN STREET, FLOR E NC E | 4 :0 0 P M In collaboration with the Pioneer Valley Model Railroad Club, Look Memorial Park will offer all of the sights and sounds to capture the magic of the season. Visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus, explore an enchanted forest, and playful miniature villages with model trains whizzing by. To ride Santa’s Train is free! Read more at Lookpark.org/santas-trains.

D E C E M BE R 9TH - 12TH

D E C E M BE R 10 T H & 1 3T H

The Nutcracker

ACADEMY OF MUS IC THEATR E , 27 4 MA I N ST R E E T, NO RT H A MP TO N Celebrating its 50th year, Pioneer Valley Ballet presents The Nutcracker, an annual favorite at The Academy of Music. Each year, PVB’s Nutcracker is reinvented by Artistic Directors Maryanne Kodzis and Thomas Vacanti, celebrating the history of the company and the tradition of Clara’s magical story. Purchase tickets online at aomtheatre.com or call the box office at 413-584-9032 ext.105.

Up Your Game, Improve Your Balance

FOR BES LIBR ARY, COMMUN IT Y R O O M, NO RT H A MP TO N Join coach & trainer Jim Lobley for Part 3 in the monthly “Longevity Series” as he explains the basics of dynamic balance training & how to design your own practice. Great for athletes, players of racquet sports like pickle ball and tennis, and anyone over 50! Space limited to 15; register early @thelonggame.coach. 12/10 @10:30am, 12/13 @6pm.

CONTINUED >

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REDUCE ANXIETY AND PANIC GAIN MENTAL AND EMOTIONAL CLARITY HAVE DEEPER, MORE RESTFUL SLEEP IMPROVE FOCUS AND ATTENTION

CALL FOR A FREE CONSULTATION

413.579.7698

V: cns_neurofeedback Southwick, Massachusetts

D ECEMBER 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/N ORT HA M P TO N

EVENTS CONTINUED

DE C EMBE R 1 2 T H

Teen Workshop - Sushi Candle Making!

E MILY W ILLISTON MEMOR IAL L I B R A RY, 9 PA R K ST, E AST H A MP TO N | 6 :0 0 P M Enjoy a night of sushi candle creating! We will using beeswax honeycomb sheets to create our project. Each participant will go home with three sushi candles! They make the perfect gift! Ages 12-18, registration required. Limited supplies and space. Contact youthdept@ewmlibrary for more information.

D E C E M BE R 21 ST & 2 8T H

DE C E M BE R 3 1 ST

Trivia Night

ABAN DON ED BUILDIN G BR EW E RY, 1 4 2 P L E ASA NT ST, UNI T 1 0 3A , E AST H A MP TO N | 6 :0 0 P M Come test your knowledge and compete for cash prizes in our taproom with the fabulous Eileen from Trivial Matters. $5 cash entry per player for the prize pool with teams of up to 4 players. Entry begins at 6:00 for the 6:30 game. abandonedbuildingbrewery.com.

First Night Northampton 2023

2 40 MAIN STREET N ORTHAMP TO N | 1 2:0 0 P M The 38th First Night Northampton is a 12-hour, family-friendly festival of the arts. This signature New Year’s Eve event will feature memorable performances of your favorite artists. First Night pins go on sale at many locations throughout Western Massachusetts in early December. A single pin opens the doors to every event at every venue. firstnightnorthampton.org.

Want to be featured?

Get in touch by heading over to our landing page to connect: CityLifestyle.com/Northampton

A Community You Can Count On For over 55 years, it has been our mission to make a positive difference in your financial life—and we’re thankful for your participation in our cooperative. Northampton | Leeds | Hadley Amherst | Springfield | Worcester umassfive.coop • 800.852.5886 Federally Insured by NCUA

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Happy Holidays!

During this holiday season, our thoughts turn gratefully to those who have made our success possible. It is in this spirit that we say THANK YOU for allowing us to serve your community. We look forward to serving all your banking needs in the new year. Visit our Northampton Branch at 297 King Street.

Member FDIC | Member DIF

HAPPY HOLIDAYS from our family to yours!

Alan M . Kasperows ki, D D S • B r ya n M. Ka s perows ki, D M D, FAG D • M e g h an Ke lley, D M D • D r. A lis o n Le e co ck DMD

Specializing in expert dental care including preventive, restorative, implant and cosmetic services 79 B roa d St re e t , We st f iel d , M A • (41 3 ) 562- 5494 • d rka s p e rows ki .com

MOM’S NEXT ADVENTURE STARTS HERE Experience the beneﬁts of Assisted Living at Armbrook Village. Our unique short-term and trial stay option has “no minimum stay” requirement! Stay as long or as short as you need. SPEND TIME WITH NEW FRIENDS. Freed from home maintenance chores, Mom will spend time with new friends, pursuing hobbies together and taking part in a variety of specially tailored, innovative social and wellness programs aimed at promoting independence, inspiring curiosity, and encouraging connections with others. INDEPENDENT & ASSISTED LIVING COMPASS MEMORY SUPPORT 551 North Road, Westﬁeld, MA ArmbrookVillage.com I 413-568-0000

BE WELL NOURISHED. Mom's taste buds will be awakened at each meal in our dining room, choosing from a fresh and healthy menu of dishes crafted by our own chefs.

DISCOVER OUR HOLISTIC APPROACH TO MEMORY CARE. Compass Memory Support Neighborhood® treats the whole person with evidence-based social programming aimed at slowing the symptoms of the disease. KNOW WHAT YOU ARE PAYING FOR. Our transparent and predictable pricing model leaves you with no surprises on your bill.

Bring Mom in for a tour and get a Brain Healthy Meal, to-go! D ECEMBER 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/N ORT HA M P TO N

OREO CHEESECAKE COOKIES WELCOME TO THE #ROUTE10CORRIDOR ARTICLE & MONTHLY @HELLOFOODREVIEWS COLUMN FEATURING HOT SPOTS FROM WESTFIELD TO NORTHAMPTON! ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY MADELINE LEBLANC

Want to impress your guests this holiday season or are you looking for a new cookie swap recipe? Try out my show-stopping Oreo Cheesecake Cookie! This recipe makes about two dozen cookies. Enjoy!

What you will need: • • • • • •

8oz cream cheese 1 stick of soft butter 2 cups of flour 1 1/2 cups of sugar 2 cups of chocolate chips 20 Oreo cookies crushed up (big pieces)

Instructions: 1. In a large bowl place the cream cheese, butter, and sugar, then beat until smooth. 2. Slowly add in the flour. Once added, take the crushed Oreo cookie pieces and chocolate chips and fold into mixture. 3. Place the mixture in the fridge for 30 minutes. 4. Preheat the oven to 350’F. 5. Take the dough from the fridge, use a spoon to scoop the dough into small balls. Place them onto a cookie sheet. Then, use the spoon to slightly flatten them. 6. Bake for approximately 14-16 minutes.

For more recipes, head to my page on Instagram @hellofoodreviews! 34

C ULIN A RY C R E AT ION S | F OOD + BE VE RAGE

C O N T E M P O R A R Y I TA L I A N A mix of inventive cocktails and inspired cuisine are met with classics on our menu.

1 Bridge Street, Northampton, MA (413) 586-6313 spoletorestaurants.com

D ECEMBER 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/N ORT HA M P TO N

S TO P I N TO DAY TO T E S T D R I V E T H E A L L N E W M U S TA N G M AC H - E

H A P P Y H O L I D A Y S F R O M O U R F A M I LY T O Y O U R S !

968 Bridge Road,

Northampton

413.584.2400

fordofnorthampton.com