Issuu

The Love Local Issue

F E B R UA RY 2 02 3

Always at Your Service...For Over 40 Years!

We are a full service HVAC contractor providing repair, maintenance, and installation for all types of heating and air conditioning systems. We have been servicing Hampden and Hampshire counties since 1971. We look forward to exceeding your expectations!

Trust Us, Your Neighbor Just Did! 413-239-5550 • 8 Capital Dr., West Springfield, MA 01089 License# 4162 License# 16691

Brittany Means Business WORKING WITH HOMEBUYERS, SELLERS, AND INVESTORS

A MULTIMILLION DOLLAR PRODUCER SINCE 2015

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413-335-7323 West Springfield, MA brittanytheroux.lockandkeyma.com

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February 2023 PUBLISHER

Amanda Waterfield | amanda.waterfield@citylifestyle.com MANAGING EDITOR

Sara Anderson | sara.anderson@citylifestyle.com

LIFESTYLE LETTER

February is for Loving Local As February brings its gradually lengthening days and anything-goes weather, I tend to look at the calendar and wonder why the month of love gets short shrift. Only 28 days to celebrate love in all its forms seems like a bad deal. Why? Because there is just so much to love in our area. Beyond our great date-night spots, culture, caring, and creativity are easy to find in our towns and on the pages of this month’s issue. Take this month’s cover photo, for example. Vision and talent turn the most humble of vegetables, the gourd, into a work of art. Ceil Rossi’s beautiful sculptures are just a peek at what you can discover among the creatives of the Agawam Community Artists and Artisans. What really strikes me about this month’s content, however, is the love that is inherent in the way we express responsibility for our families. No one likes to think about what happens when time takes its toll and we need to face the hard realities of aging: dealing with age-related care issues and questions of inheritance are challenging at best. But really, what could be more caring than to eliminate doubt, uncertainty, and stress for our loved ones? Just a quick conversation with an estate attorney or an in-home care agency can ensure that your family has less to worry about. I speak from experience, having tackled some of these issues last year, and I can tell you that the comfort and relief I feel is immeasurable. Thanks for letting us be a part of the life you’re building, whatever that may look like. Our hope is that we inspire you to love it just a bit more than you did before. Happy February!

A M A N DA WAT E R F I E L D, P U B L I S H E R @WESTSPRINGFIELD_LIFESTYLE

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

PUBLISHER ASSISTANT

Alaura Calavas | alauracalavas@citylifestyle.com CONTR IBUTING WR ITER S

Sara Anderson, Tina Lesniak, Ronda Parish, Amanda Waterfield CONTR IBUTING PHOTOGR APHER S

j81 Studios LLC, Ron Lemelin, Karen Slack

Corporate Team CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore DIRECTOR OF SOCIAL MEDIA Mindy Hargesheimer ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell AD DESIGNER Hunter Richie LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsi Southard

Learn how to start your own publication at: citylifestyle.com//franchise Proverbs 3:5-6 West Springfield Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the West Springfield 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 West Springfield Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered

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

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

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inside the issue The Love Local Issue

F E ATU R E D

D E PA RTM E NTS

16 Choosing the Right Homecare

Lifestyle Letter

City Scene

Business Monthly

Local Experiences

Family Care

Artist’s Palette

Home Update

Legal Compass

Fashion Forward

Events

Caring Solutions offers personalized, professional care

20 Discover Local Artists

Three area artists share their passion for creative expression

24 Power Couple

Eric Galarza and Sasha Rodriguez combine work and family

28 A Call to Action

Taking control and reducing fear of the unknown

O N T H E C OV E R

Photography: j81 Studios LLC Agawam artist Ceil Rossi's gourd sculpture, "Rosa Rugosa at the Shore"

HEA LT H + WELLNESS A RTS + C U LT U R E

HO ME S ERV I C ES FI NA NC E + LEGA L SE RV IC E S HO ME + DES IG N

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Karene Alvarado Realtor

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Agawam Pack & Ship LLC www.agawampackandship.com

FedEx, UPS, DHL, USPS, Copy, Mailbox Rentals, Fingerprinting, Fax, Scan, Notary Services, Shredding We sell Nebo Lights! 417 Springfield Street Agawam, MA 01001 (413) 789-1023

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info@agawampackandship.com Alan Cohen, Proprietor Richard Cohen, Proprietor

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city scene

Where neighbors can see and be seen. 1

7 5

1: Publisher Amanda Waterfield makes it official: West Springfield Lifestyle celebrates its first birthday. 2: Leanne Sedlak of SkinCatering and Greta D'Amours of Greta's Beauty Bar. 3: Delicious treats and festive decor added to the celebration, held at Greta's Beauty Bar. 4: David Foley of Unique Sales & Strategy visits with Deborah Pileika of Deborah Pilieka Interiors. 5: Leanne Sedlak of SkinCatering and Amanda Waterfield of West Springfield Lifestyle. 6: It's not a birthday party without a cake! 7: The Greta's Beauty Bar team: Adriana Jiminez, Irma Grace, and Greta D'Amours.

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

C I T Y SC E N E

Protect your Love

Todd Bajor

Licensed Agent New York Life Insurance Company tnbajor@ft.newyorklife.com

413-885-6864

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business monthly A round-up of exciting news from local businesses.

Laura's Unique Boutique Holds its Grand Opening

Yori Korean Restaurant Opens in Agawam

West Springfield specialty shop Laura's Unique Boutique held its ribbon cutting and grand opening in November. The boutique is your go-to spot for dazzling accessories, clothing, purses, jewelry, hats, fragrances, and more. Proprietor Laura Roe can customize pieces such as jerseys and jean jackets. Visit Laura's Unique Boutique at 209 Elm Street to bring a little sparkle to your wardrobe.

“Yori” means special food or precious food in Korean. The new restaurant offers popular Korean dishes such as kimchi jjigae, a spicy stew with pork; jjamppong, a seafood stew with squid, clams, and mussels; the popular marinated beef stir fry bulgolgi; the vegetarian dish bibimbap with gochujang; the Korean sushi known as gimbap; kkangpung chili shrimp; and delicious appetizers such as cheese balls, dumplings, and potato pancakes. Visit at 1 Cooper Street in Agawam.

Photography by Laura's Unique Boutique

Parsons Sewing Connections Under New Ownership Anne Marie Whelihan is taking the reins as the new owner of Parsons Sewing Connections at 2005 Riverdale Street in West Springfield. Sewers, quilters, and creators in the Pioneer Valley have been relying on Parsons Sewing Connections as their primary resource for sewing machine sales and service for decades. Parsons also offers custom embroidery services for personalization of clothing and gifts.

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B USIN E SS M ON T H LY

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Taplin Yard, Pump and Power Equipment Joins WRC Agawam’s Taplin Yard, Pump and Power Equipment is the newest addition to the West of the River Chamber of Commerce, but has been a local resource for power equipment since 1892! Purchased in 2006 by the Jagodowski family, Taplin carries Ariens, Gravely, Cub Cadet, and other trusted brands. Taplin is one of the area’s largest fully certified service departments, servicing all brands. Rely on the community's oldest, most trusted name in equipment sales and service… “Commitment That Counts”. Photography by Taplin

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Alexandra Aesthetics Offers Beauty Services Alexandra Aesthetics now offers microblading and lash extension services at their 1024 N. West Street, Feeding Hills location. Owner Alyssa Amato works carefully to design enhancements based on each client's facial structure. Microblading, or semi-permanent eyebrow makeup, is a tattooing procedure that frames the eyes and brings definition to the face. Lash extensions are available in a range of lengths and styles. Call for a consult to learn more about these services.

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Sales and Business Coaching from Unique Sales & Strategy David Foley, the founder of Unique Sales & Strategy, LLC, offers sales and business coaching professional, specializing in sales and marketing for small businesses. David's Springfieldbased business strives to help serious business owners generate more clients, close more sales, and increase their overall revenue and profits quickly and inexpensively. David has a keen understanding of the complex issues facing small businesses in the sometimes volatile economy we have today and can be reached at 413.348.2171 Photography by David Foley

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

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UP TO

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Attorney Katherine Garvey

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Colorful Resilience “They were so good with communication, they were very clear with their expectations, they were extremely reasonable with the things they were asking of me and it was actually a very seamless, very positive experience.”

Epiphany Glam Studio “I love the fact that they have a lot of resources and that you are not left alone. You’re not out there just trying to figure it out by yourself, they have someone to help you in any category that you need help in.”

Owner Mayrena Guerrero

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Common Capital is a nonprofit community loan fund that responsibly lends money to small businesses that are unable to access all the capital they need from other lenders. Please visit www.CommonCapitalMA.org to learn more.

TABLES | BEDDING | CASEGOODS | FLORAL | CHAIRS

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Local craft beers and globally sourced wines

Tower Square, Springfield (413) 237-6187 springfieldwineex@gmail.com Visit us on Valentine's Day for a special tasting event. We'll have roses & bouquets available for purchase.

Free tastings every Thursday from 3:30 to 6

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

In February, why not expand your creativity and broaden your horizons? These are great ways to get out while also staying cozy indoors. Learn to paint, dance, make pottery, and explore the world of wine--treat yourself or bring a friend, or make new ones! Enjoy these establishments that you’re sure to fall for while also giving back to our local economy.

Our Picks to Show Your Local Love HOLYOKE CR EATIVE AR TS CENTER : The Holyoke Creative Arts Center offers

classes in sewing, chair caning, painting, wood carving, and the ever-popular upholstery. Beautify your home this month with creativity! 150 Front Street, Suite 5, West Springfield, MA KIL'N IT POTTER Y STUDIO: Take a wheel-throwing or clay-sculpting workshop, paint pre-made pottery, or host a party or event at this popular venue. Great for dates or girls' night. 610 Enfield Street, Enfield, CT THOUSAND CR ANES STUDIO: Children ages 6 to 12 and teens will have a blast painting, drawing, and doing other creative projects. Both in-person and live, online classes available. 505 Springfield Street, Agawam, MA FR ED ASTAIR E DANCE STUDIO - WEST SPR INGFIELD: Learn to make your dance debut at an upcoming wedding, or dance just for fun. Classes in salsa, mambo, hustle, tango, waltz, and much more. 54 Wayside Avenue, West Springfield, MA SPR INGFIELD WINE EXCHANGE: Call 413.237.6187 to learn about Springfield Wine Exchange's free, weekly wine tastings. Become a connoisseur and explore the many beers and foods for sale, too. 1500 Main Street, Springfield, MA

Fred Astaire Dance Studio - West Springfield

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

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C H O O S I N G T H E R I G H T H O M E C A R E Local business Caring Solutions offers personalized, professional care

Caring Solutions provides Alzheimer's and dementia care

Companionship services are available

Caring Solutions has nurses on staff

ARTICLE BY TINA LESNIAK

Caring Solutions, a West Springfield-based homecare business, prides itself on its personalized approach to caring for its clients. Because Caring Solutions is a local business and not a franchise, the company has the ability to offer more options and specific care to its clients. “We are able to care for our patients the way that is important to them,” says Patti Baskin-Scholpp, owner of Caring Solutions. “There is no cookie cutter care plan. Every plan is different because everyone is different.”

FAM ILY CA R E | HEA LTH + W E LLNE S S

Left to right: Karen Duncan, Patti Baskin-Scholpp, Kelse Levesque and and service dog Illias, Ashlee Baskin. Nursing supervisor Maria Hunt is not pictured. Photo by j81 Studios LLC.

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“We are able to care for our patients the way that is important to them. Every plan is different because everyone is different.” – Patti Baskin-Scholpp, owner of Caring Solutions. Caring Solutions offers a range of services from simple companionship to hospice care and everything in between. Services include light housekeeping, continence care, dressing, meal preparation, bathing, shopping, medical appointments, nursing assessments, medication reminders, Alzheimer's and dementia care, ambulation, and recovery after hospitalization. Services can be given at home or at assisted living facilities —the goal is to have the client where the client wants to be. Patti worked as an accountant before starting Caring Solutions. After struggling to find homecare for her gravely ill mother, Patti felt she wanted to become more involved in the homecare system. “I was unable to secure caring, compassionate, and dependable homecare for my mother, so when she passed, I left my job as an accountant and went to work for a homecare company that was a franchise,” says Patti. “That is where I learned about some of the serious issues in the system of homecare for the elderly.” Some of Patti’s concerns stemmed from a lack of oversight of homecare companies, particularly regarding background and CORI checks that make it too easy for those with a criminal background to get hired. Patti’s personal experiences with homecare options greatly influenced how she approached building her own business when she opened Caring Solutions in 2006. “Families need to trust their homecare company,” says Patti. According to Patti, some of the things that families should ask about and follow up on

FAM ILY CA R E | HEA LTH + W E LLNE S S

for homecare are background checks, references for their employees, driving records, experience, training, backup care for illness, individualized care plans, support for their employees, nurses on staff for medical issues, on-call staff, and how to know if your homecare employee is at their work site. “Staffing in the medical field right now is extremely difficult, but that is why it is even more important to be diligent in finding a homecare company that will not hire people out of desperation but have a hiring practice that is acceptable to you,” says Patti. Patti prides herself on the team that she’s been able to build at Caring Solutions. The business hosts team-building experiences and offers rewards for giving back to the community. “Our employees are part of a team where not one person is more important than the team,” says Patti. “Some of my employees have been here since I opened Caring Solutions 16 years ago. Although this is a high-turnover field, we try to retain employees by providing ongoing training, good benefits, and quarterly meetings where staff are treated to a meal and have the ability to speak freely to other caregivers, office staff, and nurses.” At the end of the day, it’s really all about being there for those in need. “The single most rewarding part of my job is knowing that Caring Solutions has made a positive difference in someone's life, if even for a moment,” says Patti. For more information, go to www.caring-solutions. com, visit its West Springfield office at 131 Elm St., or call 413.733.5588.

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Granny’s PLACE

Your local spot for vegetables, plants, homemade ice cream, and more! We’ve got homemade apple butter and applesauce, and don’t miss out on our pies. WE’RE ACCEPTING 2023 CSA SIGNUPS NOW! ’T DON AND FRESH S MIS IDER E LE C APP S ON TH T U ! DON EEKEND W

(413) 786-9366 GrannysPlaceFarm.com 844 Main Street Agawam, Massachusetts

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DISCOVER LOCAL ARTISTS THREE AREA ARTISTS SH A R E T H EI R PA S SION FOR CREATIVE EXPRESSION

ARTICLE BY SARA ANDERSON More than ever, people are purchasing original art works. With many artists now selling their work locally and online, it’s easy to explore local art you love. One great way to learn about Western Massachusetts artists is at valleyartsnewsletter.com, where you can view and subscribe to the weekly newsletter featuring art exhibits by city. We also love the Facebook page of Agawam Community Artists and Artisans (ACAA) for exploring local artists. In the spirit of supporting area artists, we’re featuring three artists and their work. Watercolorist and ACAA member Joseph Burger explains, “They say a picture is worth a thousand words. This notion attracts me to the painting world—a successful painting can speak volumes. Watercolor can produce a luminous background atmosphere almost effortlessly, and the mix of hard and soft edges and a wide range of values all help tell the story.” Gourd sculpture artist Ceil Rossi studied with prominent artists and had her own art studio in Arizona. She says, “Gourds have played a significant role in human lives for most of documented history and are the oldest cultivated plant on earth—they are nature’s pottery. Using a Dremel and wood burning tools, carving burrs, ink dyes, metal leafing, and other embellishments, a gourd sculpture is born.” Eileen Doherty was introduced to the art of fabric collage eight years ago, and says, “I was intrigued by the possibility of using fabric like paint to create an image. I took a two week-long class with Susan Carlson, a renowned fabric artist from Maine, and I’ve been hooked ever since. I love every stage of the process, from choosing an image to transfer onto muslin, wandering in fabric stores to gather materials, and spending time in my studio playing with colors and shapes to bring the image to life.” Ceil Rossi artwork photos by j81 Studios LLC; artists’ photos by Karen Slack.

A RT IST ’S PA LE T T E | ARTS + CULTURE

CEIL ROSSI GOURD SCULPTURE ARTIST Ceil Rossi lived in Arizona for over 25 years and discovered gourds, the magical art form of the Southwest. An unusual medium for any New England artist, working with gourds has helped Ceil nurture her creativity. In addition to creating gourd art sculptures, teaching, exhibiting in galleries in Massachusetts and Connecticut, and winning honors in several fine art shows, Ceil is president of the Agawam Community Artists and Artisans and member of the Agawam Cultural Council. Ceil also presents her lecture, “From Field to Fine Art,” on the history, art, and culture of the gourd. Ceil works at her studio in Agawam and can be contacted at her Facebook page carefreegourdgallery, tocarefree2@ hotmail.com, or 413.207.1247. T O P : “Chopstix,” gourd sculpture B O T T O M : “Spring Tulips,” gourd sculpture

JOSEPH BURGER

EILEEN DOHERTY

WAT E RC OL OR & PA ST E L A RT IST

FA BR IC COLLAGE A RTIST

When Joe Burger retired as a nuclear engineer, he began to pursue art formally in 2010, beginning with a series of classic aircraft drawings in pencil, then later expanding to watercolor and pastel mediums. Watercolor is currently his preferred medium, usually in the traditional realistic style. Joe is an active member of the Agawam Community Artists and Artisans, and has conducted numerous painting workshops with the organization and at Arts Center East in Vernon, CT and the Windsor Locks Senior Center. He accepts commissions for paintings from fighter jets to homesteads to puppy portraits and anything in between. He can be reached at JoeBurger07@gmail.com, 860.614.5169, or his website at joseph-burger.pixels.com.

Westfield artist Eileen Doherty is a retired high school English teacher, photographer, and fabric collage artist. Each of Eileen’s fabric collages take hundreds of hours to design, piece together, assemble, and quilt. Her “Mama and Baby” piece was donated to and can be viewed at Baystate Children’s Hospital in Springfield, where it is displayed on a wall with other jungle-themed animal works. Eileen recently taught a six-week fabric collage class with Jennifer Dorgan at Jen’s Westfield studio, Piece of My Art, and plans to teach another class at the studio in spring 2023. Information about Eileen’s upcoming class can be found at pomartstudio.com, 413.231.6493, or jenpomart@gmail.com.

T O P : "Against the Wind,” watercolor painting B O T T O M : "Light at the Inlet," watercolor painting

T O P : "Mama and Baby," fabric collage B O T T O M : "Emma In Color," fabric collage

& PHOTOGRAPHER

FEBR UARY 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/WE STS P R I N G F I E L D

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B E S T- H E A D S H O T. C O M FEBR UARY 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/WE STS P R I N G F I E L D

Power Couple HG Home Improvement owners Eric Galarza and Sasha Rodriguez

HG Home Improvement owners Eric Galarza and Sasha Rodriguez combine work and family ARTICLE BY AMANDA WATERFIELD | PHOTOGRAPHY BY RON LEMELIN

H OM E U P DAT E | HOM E SE RVI CE S

When a couple has been together for many years, sometimes switching up the dynamic can be a challenge. But for Eric Galarza and Sasha Rodriguez, the transition from life partners to business partners has been a smooth one. The couple runs HG Home Improvement, a renovation and construction firm based in Holyoke, which they operate with co-owner Jeanette Reyes Morera, Sasha’s mother. Eric and Sasha met and fell in love over 15 years ago, and had worked separately, each focusing on their own careers. Sasha worked in property management for a Springfieldarea company, but left that role last May to take on the administration of HG Home Improvement. The qualities and personalities of the couple provide a positive dynamic in their working relationship. “Sasha is great with our clients and employees,” notes Eric. “She’s calm and knows what to say, and is good with personalities and customer service.” Eric is more of a risk-taker. “He’s not afraid to invest money and go for it,” says Sasha. The pair loves the stronger partnership that working together brings them. “We like the fact that we have more time to spend with each other,” says Sasha. “It gives us more connection and more common interests.” BUSINESS GROWTH AND FAMILY GROWTH Launched nearly three years ago a general construction business, HG has added property management and building maintenance to its offerings, and that expansion has led to significant growth for the company. “Our first HG job was doing a flooring job for my former employer,” states Sasha.

With the addition of property management and maintenance, HG has grown to employ 16 people. Because HG Home Improvement is a newer business, they are hyper-focused on their reputation and the value they deliver. “Most important to us is being responsible,” says Eric. “We always check carefully to ensure that each job is done correctly. If something needs to be fixed, we take care of it immediately. It’s just part of the job.” “We are a family business,” he adds. “Our goals are to continue growing the business and keep providing jobs for our family members.” Eric would like to see the company reach 50 employees in the future. Family is at the center of what Eric and Sasha value. The parents of two boys enjoy spending time with their sons and hope that the boys will eventually join the company. Eric Junior is 13 and Sebastian is 5. “When we’re not working, we’re with the kids,” notes Sasha. The boys are involved in basketball and tae kwan do. Eric and Sasha’s partnership will take on a new dimension when the pair marry on February 18. Until recently, Sasha wasn’t interested in a large wedding, but as she says, “Now we can do it, so we’re going for it!” The wedding will take place in Coamo, Puerto Rico, with 200 people in attendance. The couple will honeymoon there as well. The future of HG Home Improvement will focus on building repeat business with their clients, both residential and commercial. Through hard work, a focus on value, and strict work ethics, HG Home Improvement is looking toward a prosperous future. “We’ve been very lucky,” says Sasha. “God is always there with us.”

FEBR UARY 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/WE STS P R I N G F I E L D

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Attorney Ronda Parish

A Call to Action As Julie and Bob sat at the dinner table with their young children discussing the excitement of the New Year, the phone rang. It was Bob’s father, and he was panicked that if they did not do something quickly, he would lose everything to the “government.” Actually, Dad had just watched a TV commercial that used scare tactics about losing assets to a nursing home, but this was enough for him to jump to action.

Julie, Bob, and Dad decided it was time to call a local lawyer who specialized in estate planning and set up an appointment. Previously, Julie had thought that she and Bob did not need to have a will because they were too young. Dad just hadn’t wanted to deal with his estate planning and face the fact that he was aging, already retired, and living alone.

TAKING CONTROL AND REDUCING FEAR OF THE UNKNOWN

ARTICLE BY ATTORNEY RONDA PARISH | PHOTOGRAPHY BY KAREN SLACK

L EGA L C OM PASS | FINANCE + LE GAL S E RVI CE S

At their first meeting, the family’s lawyer made it clear that if you want to control who will inherit your assets when you pass and protect and provide for your children, you need to have a will. Also, if you want to make sure your children don’t inherit too young, at age 18, you should have a trust to provide for and protect the children until they are old enough to have developed good judgment. Julie, Bob, and Dad learned that they could pick the person who would manage their assets after their passing—what is known as the Personal Representative, and they also learned that they could chose the Trustee, who could be a family member, friend, or advisor. Dad learned that there were options and tools that he could use to make sure that his assets would pass to his family rather than being used up to pay for longterm medical and care needs. With the guidance of the lawyer, the family discussed transferring some of Dad’s assets to an irrevocable trust and transferring his home to his family, but reserving a life estate so that Dad could not be forced to leave his home involuntarily. They also made sure they had detailed powers of attorney and health care proxy documents so that they would not need to file with Probate Court to obtain the power to make healthcare decisions for Dad and manage his assets, if he was not able.

Dad wanted to make sure that Bob and Julie would be in charge, and that these documents incorporated his personal choices and decisions. The attorney learned that Dad always made gifts to certain favorite charities, and explained to Dad that he would avoid some income taxes if the gifts went directly to the charities from his individual retirement account (IRA). Julie and Bob decided to have their attorney prepare a will and a simple trust to make sure their children would be taken care of in the event of a catastrophe, and named guardians for their young children in their wills, just in case. They left with the documents they needed to protect themselves and their children. Dad left with his estate planning documents, which also incorporated elder laws. In just a few short meetings, the family learned about wills, inheritance, income and estate tax planning, and even naming charities as beneficiaries to reduce taxable income. All in all, that panicked telephone call became a call to action, and the family learned that good planning with an attorney would save money in the long run, and eliminate a lot of stress and headaches. The Law Office of Ronda G. Parish, PC, is located at 1350 Main Street, Suite 1003, Springfield, MA. Ronda can be reached at 413.301.0850.

Julie, Bob, and Dad decided it was time

to call a local lawyer who specialized

in estate planning and set up an

appointment.

FEBR UARY 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/WE STS P R I N G F I E L D

ELEVATE YOUR CLOSET 5 WAYS TO O R G A N I Z E A N D

Every woman dreams of an organized and beautiful closet space, but it often comes last on the list of places that get their time and attention. Follow our five tips for transforming and elevating your closet as you Spring clean and declutter for a more peaceful, inspired space you absolutely love. A sneak peek inside the closet of active mom and entrepreneur Keri Tarantino of Leawood, KS reveals a dressing room that rivals celebrity homes in Beverly Hills. But it didn’t come easily. Keri painstakingly planned, designed and curated the space with care. When we first stepped inside, we gasped as our eyes beheld the glory. No detail went unnoticed in this dreamy dressing room. Here are some guiding principles that can be drawn from her exquisite taste and vision. How you organize your closet will of course differ based on the size of your space, the size of your wardrobe, and the kind of life you lead. But applying the guidelines Keri used in her space will result in a much more organized and aesthetically pleasing space.

USE R EAL ESTATE W ISELY Reserve the front and middle of the closet for clothes worn most often. For someone who gets dressed for work each morning at 6 a.m., work clothes should be at the front of the closet. Store lesser-worn items like formal wear and out-of-season clothes toward the back and on the upper shelves. The large mirror and counter with chair provides the perfect spot to select jewelry and finalize finishing outfit touches. While every closet is different, the key here is everything has a home.

FASH ION F OR WA R D | HOME + DE S I GN

ARTICLE BY HALEY WILLIAMS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY CASSANDRA CASTANEDA

INJECT ST YLE INTO YOUR SPACE

ORGA NIZE BY K IND A ND COLOR

Group clothes by kind first and color second. This ensures quick location of that favorite shirt when it’s needed. Bonus - it’s easy on the eye. Group like with like: Gather belts, sweaters, long-sleeve shirts, work pants, dresses, button-down shirts, jeans, shorts, etc., and decide the best place to store each item as a group (e.g., hang pants in the closet, fold and stack sweaters in a bureau). Working with groupings will help you figure out how much space you need and the best way to store each type of item.

03 04 05 NEGATIVE SPACE

Using space efficiently is important, but keep in mind every good design includes some negative space. For instance, consider adding built-ins on the long wall of your closet but keep the short wall open with a mirror.

FACE CLOTHES THE SA ME DIR ECTION

It may seem silly, but when dealing with a small space, little things count. Hanging all clothes the same direction is a no-brainer for continuity in your closet.

UPGR ADED HA NGERS

The simplest and fastest way to make a BIG difference in your closet organization is to get matching hangers that go beyond the traditional plastic or wire hangers. And for sure ditch any with paper from the dry cleaner! Here’s a few of our favorite elevated hangers:

FEBR UARY 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/WE STS P R I N G F I E L D

F E B R UA RY 2 0 2 3

events A curated selection of the most intriguing upcoming events in our area. F E B R UA RY 3 RD

MassMutual Center Woodworking Expos

1277 MAIN STREET S PRIN G FIEL D, MA | 2:0 0 P M A woodworking industry event for DIY, hobbyist, and professional users of woodworking hand and power tools, machinery, furniture hardware, stains/finishes, and wood species. Including a myriad of educational presenters covering a wide gamut of basic to advanced procedures both common (and uncommon) to the craft of woodworking. February 3 to 5. Visit massmutualcenter.com for times and info or call 413.787.6600. F EB RUA RY 4 T H

Duranarama 80s Tribute Show

KAPTAIN J IMMY'S , 916 S UFFIEL D ST R E E T, AGAWA M, MA | 8 :0 0 P M Get your hairspray and neon accessories and rock out to the raddest local 80s tribute band, Duranarama. Featuring all your favorite 80s hits from artists like Madonna, Cyndi Lauper, The Cure, Culture Club, and more. Join this popular band's fans in your best 80s duds— the band will have you singing and dancing along! Visit Duranarama's Facebook page for info. F E B R UA RY 5T H

The Harlem Globetrotters

MAS S MUTUAL CEN TER , 1277 M A I N ST R E E T S P R I NG F I E L D, MA | 3:0 0 P M On the Harlem Globetrotters 2023 World Tour, experience your favorite Globetrotter stars' amazing basketball skills, outrageous athleticism, and a non-stop good time. Join the Globetrotters as they go head-to-head against the Washington Generals, who will stop at nothing to try and defeat the world’s winningest team. An inclusive, interactive gameday experience that can’t be beat! Visit massmutualcenter.com or call 413.787.6600. F EB RUA RY 1 8T H

Alingon Mitra at MGM Springfield, Roar! Comedy Club

MG M S PRIN G FIELD, ON E MG M WAY, S P R I NG F I E L D, MA | 8 :0 0 P M Alingon Mitra is a NYC stand-up comedian and comedy writer for Comedy Central and TruTV, appearing on The Late Show With Stephen Colbert, Conan, Late Night With Craig Ferguson, and Adam Devine’s House Party. Mitra is a winner of the Boston Comedy Festival and the "Funniest Comic in New England" contests. Call 413.273.5000 or visit mgmspringfield.mgmresorts.com for information and tickets.

nee CCoouunnttyy Club n SStt.. A n Club An

CONTINUED >

St. Anne County Club Public Golf Course Wedding Venue Beautiful Views Awards Program for Golfers Public Golf Course • Wedding Venue Public Golf Course • Wedding Venue Beautiful views • Awards Program for Golfers Beautiful views • Awards Program for Golfers Find out more at www.STANNECC.com

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EVE N TS

Public Golf Course • Wedding Venue Beautiful views • Awards Program for Golfers

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DANCE WI T H P ASSI ON!

Dance Dynamics

Hip-Hop, Jazz, Lyrical, Ballet, Point, Acro, Tap, Kinderdance, Tiny Tumblers, Adult Tap, Adult HipHop, and so much more

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1425 WESTFIELD ST | (413) 301-5876 FEBR UARY 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/WE STS P R I N G F I E L D

EVENTS CONTINUED

F E B R UA RY 1 9 T H

Photographer Gordon Parks Reception and Lecture

VALLEY PHOTO CEN TER, 1500 MA I N ST R E E T, S P R I NG F I E L D, MA | 2:0 0 P M Celebrate Black History Month at the special reception for the work of Gordon Parks, American photographer, musician, writer and film director. The reception includes Parks' exhibit, refreshments, and a special lecture by Keith Sharp, director of the Gordon Parks Museum in Fort Scott, Kansas. Free to the public; pre-register by calling 413.378.5253 or email valleyphotocenter@icloud.com. F E B R UA RY 2 5T H

Springfield Symphony Orchestra New Orleans Jazz: Mardi Gras

3 4 COURT STR EET, S PRIN G FIEL D, MA | 7 :30 P M Celebrate Mardi Gras with a night of hot, steamy New Orleans jazz. The good times roll with music from New Orleans natives Fats Domino, Mahalia Jackson, and Louis Armstrong. This party transforms into an unforgettable Mardi Gras celebration with Byron Stripling leading the parade. Visit springfieldsymphony.org or call 413.733.2291 for more information.

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EVE N TS

T H E L AW O F F I C E O F

RONDA G. PARISH, PC

Trust s a nd E st ate Pla nning

Elder L aw

Gu a rd ia nsh ip s a nd C o nser vato r ship s Ta x ation

Pro b ate

Busine s s L aw

R e sident ia l a nd C o m m erc ia l R ea l E st ate

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ronda.parish@rgparishlaw.com

FEBR UARY 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/WE STS P R I N G F I E L D

FULL-SERVICE HOME IMPROVEMENT & MAINTENANCE • KITCHENS • BATHROOMS • FLOORING • CLEANING • MAINTENANCE

Home improvement has been my passion for as long as I can remember. After years of training and running a plumbing business, we launched HG Home Improvement in 2020. We’ve been working harder than ever, supporting multiple property management companies with the goal of serving more commercial properties and residential homes. - Eric Galarza and Sasha Rodriguez, Owners of HG Home Improvement 413.977.3154 | HGHOMEIMPROVEMENT.COM | b FOLLOW US ON FACEBOOK: HG HOME IMPROVEMENT INC.