Westfield, MA September 2023

Our Style Issue

LIFESTYLE LETTER

September is for Style

Dear Reader,

I hope this letter finds you in high spirits and full of creative energy.

Today, I want to take a moment to celebrate and explore the fascinating world of style. Style is not limited to the clothes we wear or the way we adorn ourselves; it encompasses every aspect of our lives. From the way we decorate our homes to the music we listen to, from the books we read to the way we carry ourselves in conversations, style permeates every facet of our existence. It is the thread that weaves together the tapestry of our lives.

Style is deeply personal. And it evolves as we celebrate our quirks, our passions, and our desires. Style is a form of self-expression that communicates who we are, how we perceive the world and what we value. In this way, style becomes a powerful tool for connection, as it enables us to find common ground with others who share our aesthetic sensibilities.

As individuals, we have the freedom to embrace established styles, blend them together, or forge entirely new paths, becoming trendsetters ourselves. We hope this issue inspires you to forge new paths or perhaps explore familiar ones. There is so much here in Westfield and Southwick to uplift our spirits, boost your productivity and ignite your creativity.

What I’ve found is that the best style is an authentic expression of who you really are. And that’s something no one on earth can duplicate.

Here’s to being uniquely you!

September 2023

PUBLISHER

Candice Berube | candice.berube@citylifestyle.com

413-519-6752

SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR

Madeline LeBlanc | madeline.leblanc@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Linda Post, Dr. Simone Phillips, Madeline LeBlanc

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Madeline LeBlanc, Hannah Josephine Photography

Corporate Team

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry

VICE PRESIDENT OF SALES Tiffany Slowinski

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson

DIRECTOR OF FIRST IMPRESSIONS Jennifer Robinson

TECHNICAL DIRECTOR Josh Klein

CONTROLLER Gary Johnson

AD DESIGNER Whitney Lockhart

LAYOUT DESIGNER Kirstan Lanier

city scene

Where neighbors can see and be seen.

Want to be seen in the magazine?

Tag your Instagram photos with @Westfield_Northampton_CL

business monthly

A round-up of exciting news from local businesses.

Western Mass Council for Boy Scouts at Fly Lugu

Fly Lugu Flight Training has partnered with the Western Mass Council for Boy Scouts of America to sponsor an Aviation Merit Badge. After spending a week learning about Aviation in the classroom, Scouts from the Horace A Moses Scout Reservation Summer Camp come to Fly Lugu for an introduction flight with Instructor and Eagle Scout Christopher Penniman.This experience gives them early exposure to the field of Aviation and potential career paths.

September 16th: Stanley Park’s Annual Fundraiser, “Twilight in the Park”

Stanley Park is excited to host its first in-person annual fundraiser since pre-COVID. “Twilight in the Park” will take place in the Beveridge Pavilion on September 16th, beginning at 5pm. Enjoy a charcuterie-style table and food stations provided by Partners Restaurant and Catering of Agawam. There will be a wide variety of items to bid on for both the live and silent auctions. For more information, visit stanleypark.org/annual fundraiser or call (413) 568-9312.

HMC offers Pulmonology Services at 140 Southampton Rd

Holyoke Medical Center is excited to begin offering Pulmonology Services at 140 Southampton Road in Westfield. Specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of illnesses and conditions that affect breathing and the lungs, the Pulmonology Center works with people suffering from asthma, COPD, emphysema, bronchitis, and more. Natalie Stucenski, CNP, is now accepting new patients at this location. To schedule an appointment, please call 413.534.2582.

Want to be featured?

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

local experiences

The

Everyone loves a closet refresh and stylish scene, so we’ve rounded up some of our picks for the most sophisticated and fashionable destinations that will have you feeling renewed as well as ready for the camera.

Our Picks for The Style Scene

DESIGNER CONSIGNOR: Designer Consignor is an upscale women's consignment boutique located in Southwick, MA, offering an excellent selection of designer and retail store labels. 549 College Highway, Southwick

CONSIGNMENT CASTLE: Consignment Boutique & Gift Store located in Southwick, MA, offers many quality new & used items. 208 College Highway, Southwick

PILGRIM CANDLE CO: Pilgrim Candle celebrates over 31 years of candle making in Westfield, MA. Shop for candles, apparel, and gifts! 16/36 Union Avenue, Westfield

BE BELLA BOUTIQUE: Be Bella is a women's fashion boutique located in Westfield, MA. Stop in for an every day piece or that special outfit!  34 School Street, Westfield

GIFT-OLOGY: Gift-ology is the local stop for gifts and super cozy blankets, loungewear, and apparel. 99 Springfield Road, Westfield

Want to recommend a local experience?

AFFORDABLE DESIGN AND DECOR

TELL US ABOUT YOURSELF.

My name is Maria Michaud. I am a wife, mother, grandmother, and entrepreneur. I started design school right after graduating in 1993. I worked in interior design for about 15 years and then detoured to corporate for a while.

HOW DID AFFORDABLE DESIGN AND DECOR GET ITS START?

I decided I was done with corporate and I needed to allow my creative side to surface again. I started refinishing furniture and holding upholstery classes - I loved customizing furniture. I decided it was time to start a shop. We started small- just enough to work and have fabric samples. Now look at what we built!

WHAT SERVICES DO YOU OFFER?

We offer custom upholstery and high quality used furniture and decor.

WHAT DO YOU LOVE MOST ABOUT YOUR BUSINESS?

I love the feeling of accomplishment when my customers are happy with their custom upholstery, the furniture they purchased, or the consigned piece we sold them.

WHAT’S UNIQUE ABOUT WHAT YOU OFFER?

Custom upholstery is not something you find very often. Even most furniture stores limit the fabric choices. With us, the possibilities are endless. We can create a piece that’s all you!

YOUR ONE-STOP-SHOP FOR CUSTOM UPHOLSTERY AND HIGH-QUALITY USED FURNITURE AND DECOR

1. When the client comes into the store, we ask what piece they are interested in having upholstered. Our pricing is pretty standard, so the first step is getting them a quote on labor and using an average fabric cost per yard. We assume the piece is in great shape and just needs current fabric removed and new fabric applied.

2. If this is something they want to pursue, we move onto looking at fabrics and determining the best fabric for both use and style.

3. The client will normally take samples home to see them in the light of their home and with their other furniture.

4. We ask the client to send pictures of the piece. We also ask for the client to measure the piece so we can determine the amount of fabric needed.

5. Once the client chooses the fabric, we update the estimate to include the actual price of fabric and any labor adjustments.

6. Once the client agrees to move forward, we require fabric to be paid-in-full, and we add the project to our list, so they have a timeline of completion.

535 College Hwy, Southwick, 413-569-6273

affordabledesignanddecor.com

New England

Custom Countertops, Inc.

A FAMILY FOUNDATION BUILT ON FINE CRAFTSMANSHIP

Wayne and Lisa Bush found themselves at a crossroads two decades ago when their busy schedules began to compete with their main priority – family time. As parents of two small children, they knew they’d have to find a creative way to reach their goals.

Wayne has been in the construction field since graduating from Westfield Vocational High School, working on new and remodeled homes as a licensed General Contractor for 30 years. With this experience, the couple decided to fabricate and install laminate countertops part-time. By helping a kitchen dealer who had more orders than they could meet, the couple began to receive enough work to start their own business.

In 2003, the couple quit their fulltime jobs and opened New England Custom Countertops (NECC) at The Mill at Crane Pond. It was a life-changing decision. On one side it was nerve-racking, but on the other side, Lisa was able to schedule her own hours and be available for the kids and all their activities. “Our outlook was, and still is, to have a no-fail attitude and work hard at quality and customer service,” Wayne shares. “This is why our company has grown to be so successful.”

Once they had been in business for a bit, they started getting calls from contractors and wholesalers, asking if they could fabricate Corian (solid surface) Countertops and shower systems. They hadn’t, but they took on the challenge. Wayne attended the classes needed to certify as a Corian fabricator.

Now, NECC offers all brands of solid surface countertops and bathroom shower walls/bases. The company also carries eight lines of kitchen cabinetry in a range of pricing to meet the needs of a wide customer base. Customers can choose from custom laminate, solid surface, granite and quartz countertops. The laminate line is custom-made in their Westfield location, with Wilsonart and Formica being their top requests. Corian and HI-MACS solid surfaces are also fabricated in-house. If it’s quartz or granite that interests you, NECC has an enormous selection including Cambria, Caesarstone, Viatera, HanStone and more. Slabs can be viewed and selected within an indoor location, and NECC offers multiple slabs of each color to ensure that large projects are all from the same batch.

When it comes to cabinetry, there are several lines from which to choose including Forevermark, Designers Choice, Wellborn Forest Cabinetry, Tedd Wood, U.S. Cabinet Depot, Bertch Vanities, Versiniti Vanities and JSI Cabinetry. All lines are of plywood and offer soft-close doors and drawers.

Wayne and Lisa strongly believe in treating customers the way they wish to be treated. With that said, potential customers are welcomed warmly and questions are encouraged.  Appointments are a great way to make sure that all the possibilities are explored and options are discussed without interruption.

“We are all about the quality of service and communication with the customers. The best feeling for us is when our customers call, email or send texts saying how happy they are with the final outcome of their project, and thanking us for the professionalism they received from our employees,” Lisa says. “That puts a huge smile on our faces!”

“We are a small, family-owned business still going strong after 20 years,” Wayne explains. “Now, our son, Josh, is training to manage the business once

we retire. He has perfected his construction skills by installing everything from new kitchens to full remodels.”

What Wayne and Lisa love the most is setting the concerns and confusion aside for their customers, and making their remodel run as smoothly as possible. NECC treats the homes of their customers as if it were their own.

One of our favorite mottos at NECC is “Why buy your next kitchen from a salesman when you can buy it from a craftsman?!”

NEW ENGLAND CUSTOM COUNTERTOPS IS A TRUE ONE-STOP-SHOP!

By treating customers like family, and providing professional services, they have made long-lasting friendships over their time in business. “One of the favorite mottos at NECC is: Why buy your next kitchen from a salesman when you can buy it from a craftsman?!”

“Our customers have been so pleased with us over the years that they are now referring their adult children to us for remodels,” shares Lisa. “We are always the happiest when our customers love the spaces in which they live.”

NEW

ENGLAND CUSTOM COUNTERTOPS

7 South Maple Street, Westfield, MA 01085 413-568-0100

The first step is to meet customer expectations by providing an initial home visit and consultation to review ideas and to prepare a CAD layout/design that highlights how the remodel will appear once completed. One perk is NECC’s countertop replacement program offers removal and disposal of old countertops. Add to that a local plumbing and electrical team, sheetrock professionals and a local flooring team at the ready, and remodels run efficiently and within budget. “We are all about the quality of service and communication with the customers. All of our staff goes above and beyond to make sure that our customers are informed and comfortable with our performance, the process and completion of the job.”

FULL SERVICE KITCHEN & BATH REMODELING

Multiple lines of custom and stock kitchen and bath cabinets. Custom Laminate, Corian, Granite and Quartz Countertops.

Pictured: Local job. Forevermark Cabinetry in the Town Square Grey. Viatera Quartz Countertop in the Calacatta Plata.

VISIT OUR SHOWROOM AND MENTION WESTFIELD CITY LIFESTYLE TO RECEIVE A FREE CUTTING BOARD.

PARADISE CITY ARTS FESTIVAL CELEBRATES ITS 29TH YEAR!

find themselves inspired by the work of painters, sculptors, and printmakers. Paradise City is unusual in that it has successfully integrated fine art and handmade craft into one show where both are taken seriously, and one can always find an affordable memento from the show to bring home.

OCTOBER 7-9TH AT THE 3 COUNTY FAIRGROUNDS IN NORTHAMPTON

The 29th Annual Paradise City Arts Festival in Northampton, Massachusetts, held at the historic Three County Fairgrounds, heralds the start of the fall foliage season, drawing loyal attendees from all over the Northeast. This expansive showcase for the arts features three airy carpeted Exhibition Buildings, plus regional food and live music under the Festival Dining Tent, the themed exhibit “Two X Two”, a silent auction to benefit the Northampton Chamber of Commerce, and an array of largescale outdoor sculpture and garden pieces. Most importantly, it’s all about the artists, traveling to Northampton from nearly 20 states. Each one has a story to tell, a skill to share and a passion for their work.

One aspect of the Paradise City Arts Festival that really sets it apart is the enormous range of the work on display. The Directors curate for variety: each artist’s booth has a unique viewpoint, and the prices for their work may start at $20 and top out at $10,000. A blend of fine art and fine craft provides a synergy that can inspire collectors to look at something new. Attendees who come expecting to see just functional crafts

THE 12,000 SQUARE-FOOT FESTIVAL DINING TENT

Northampton knows food! It’s a place where gourmet fare is served up daily in dozens of restaurants - a place where “fresh” means what you’re eating might have been grown nearby on some of the best agricultural land in the world. Get a sampling of Northampton’s vibrant restaurant scene under the Festival Dining Tent. From all-American locavore burgers and fries to exotic curries, savory soups, fresh-picked salads, yummy sandwiches, and homemade desserts, you may want to graze your way through the tent several times.

The Craft Cocktail Bar in the Dining Tent has a great menu of signature cocktails, beer, and wine to add to your dining experience. Sip a Manhattan Meets Northampton while tapping your toes to the sounds of fine local musicians, a different band every day.

SPECIAL THEMED EXHIBIT: TWO X TWO!

The concept of two, in all the forms it takes, is nearly mystical; it is the simplest grouping that takes us outside of ourselves, the simplest option to compare, the simplest to contrast.

In art and craft, we see paired objects, one never seen without the other. Think salt and pepper shakers, or bedside tables. We see opposites dueling in contrast: light and dark, big and

small, old and new. We see collaborations in their purest forms, in partnerships between married couples or partners. We are naturally drawn to pairs as a way to understand the world, to tackle its challenges, explain its mysteries, season its food. We have two eyes, two ears, two arms, two legs. Only one nose, but even that has two nostrils. We perceive the world through sets of two, through pairs and twins and diptychs and couples. It is so fundamental a theme that artists may not even realize they are using it; we naturally gravitate toward narratives and groupings of two. It is a number we are, just barely, capable of comprehending.

SILENT ART AUCTION TO BENEFIT THE NORTHAMPTON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

In support of the hometown of Paradise City’s flagship show, this fall’s traditional Silent Art Auction will benefit the Chamber of Commerce of the delightful City of Northampton. Northampton possesses a unique downtown “walking Main Street”, filled with independently owned one-of-a-kind shops, galleries, restaurants, antique stores, nightclubs, and theaters. Paradise City Arts Festival, by holding this year’s auction to benefit the Chamber, helps our host city build on its aura of a great cultural destination. Paradise City’s exhibiting artists and the community have generously donated hundreds of beautiful items to be auctioned each day of the event. 100% of

the proceeds from the auction will benefit the Chamber and the Downtown Northampton Association. Paradise City has raised nearly half a million dollars over the years to benefit regional non-profits.

FAST FACTS

What: 29th Annual Paradise City Arts Festival    220 competitively juried artists exhibiting original works in ceramics, painting, decorative fiber, art glass, furniture, jewelry, metal, mixed media, photography, large-scale sculpture, wearable art and woodworking.

Where:  In three well-ventilated Exhibition Buildings connected by covered walkways, outdoors along the Sculpture Promenade, and under the Festival Dining Tent, rain or shine, at the 3 County Fairgrounds: 54 Old Ferry Road, off Rt. 9 in Northampton, MA

When: October 7, 8 & 9 Saturday, 10am-6pm · Sunday, 10am-5pm; Monday, 10am-4pm

Admission: Adults: online $14, at box office $16. Students: $8. Three-Day Pass: $18. 12 and under free. Free Parking! Tickets available online or at the box office. Discount coupons and group tickets available online. Free full color program with admission.

And More! Sensational food and music under the Festival Dining Tent • Northampton Chamber of Commerce Benefit Art Auction • Special exhibit: Two X Two! •  Art installations along the Sculpture Promenade.

Information: Call 800.511.9725 or visit: paradisecityarts.com

Nurturing Success

Unlocking Potential through Psychological and Educational Evaluations

As an experienced educational psychologist, I am delighted to share the incredible journey of psychological and educational evaluations. Join me as we explore the evaluation process, uncover their purpose, discover the benefits they offer to parents, students, and school districts, explore potential outcomes, and learn how I can assist families in preparing their children for the new school year.

UNDERSTANDING PSYCHOLOGICAL AND EDUCATIONAL EVALUATIONS:

In my private practice, I engage in extensive explorations of each student’s cognitive abilities, emotional well-being, and academic journey. Through assessments, interviews, observations, and collaboration with parents and educators, I piece together the puzzle of their unique strengths, challenges, and learning needs. It’s like navigating a fascinating maze, seeking insights that will pave the way for success.

PURPOSE OF PSYCHOLOGICAL AND EDUCATIONAL EVALUATIONS:

The purpose of these evaluations is to unlock the full potential within each student. By understanding their cognitive abilities, learning styles, and emotional well-being, I can develop personalized strategies that cater to their unique needs. These evaluations guide the creation of support plans,

interventions, and accommodations, ensuring students receive the tools and resources necessary for academic growth, personal development, and success.

BENEFITS FOR PARENTS:

Parents, these evaluations are a gateway to understanding your child’s individual learning journey. They provide you with a comprehensive picture of your child’s cognitive strengths, learning style, and emotional well-being. Armed with this knowledge, you can make informed decisions, advocate for your child’s needs, and collaborate effectively with educators. These evaluations empower you to support your child’s educational experience and nurture their growth and well-being.

BENEFITS FOR STUDENTS:

For students, these evaluations open doors to self-discovery, confidence, and success. By understanding their cognitive strengths, challenges, and learning preferences, we can tailor educational approaches that amplify their potential. Whether addressing specific learning differences, identifying hidden talents, or providing emotional support, these evaluations empower students to embrace their unique abilities, overcome obstacles, and thrive in their academic pursuits.

Dr. Simone Phillips' career that spans 19 years. In addition to her extensive work within school districts, Dr. Phillips established a small private practice 10 years ago, in East Longmeadow, MA. Within her private practice, Dr. Phillips has built a reputation for providing mental health counseling, comprehensive assessments, insightful evaluations, and evidence-based interventions tailored to each client's unique needs. Her expertise in diagnosing mental health disorders, learning disabilities, ADHD, and other neurodevelopmental conditions has been instrumental in helping students and their families navigate the educational landscape effectively.

BENEFITS FOR SCHOOL DISTRICTS:

School districts play a pivotal role in providing an inclusive and supportive educational environment. Psychological and educational evaluations offer a holistic understanding of students’ needs, enabling districts to allocate resources effectively and provide targeted support. These evaluations foster collaboration among educators, parents, and professionals, ensuring a collective commitment to student success. The result? An enriched educational ecosystem where each student can flourish.

POTENTIAL OUTCOMES:

The outcomes of psychological and educational evaluations are diverse and impactful. For instance, evaluations may reveal specific learning disabilities such as dyslexia, dyscalculia, or ADHD, allowing for early intervention and targeted support. Psychological evaluations can uncover underlying emotional or behavioral challenges, such as anxiety or depression, leading to appropriate therapeutic interventions. Additionally, these evaluations can identify giftedness or areas of exceptional talent, allowing for enrichment opportunities and tailored educational experiences. Each outcome serves as a roadmap for personalized growth and development, ensuring that individuals receive the support they need to thrive academically, emotionally, and socially.

ASSISTING FAMILIES IN PREPARING FOR THE NEW SCHOOL YEAR:

As an educational psychologist, I am here to support families in preparing their children for the new school year. I offer guidance, resources, and strategies tailored to each child’s unique needs. Together, we can create an action plan that emphasizes strengths, addresses challenges, and promotes a positive educational experience. From providing tips for effective communication with teachers to helping establish routines and study habits, I am here to ensure a smooth transition and a successful start to the new academic year.

CONCLUSION:

As an educational psychologist, I have witnessed the profound impact of psychological and educational evaluations. They serve as compasses, guiding students, parents, and educators toward success. Let us embrace the power of these evaluations, recognizing their purpose, benefits, and potential outcomes. Together, we can create an educational landscape that celebrates individuality, fosters growth, and nurtures the potential within each student. As the new school year approaches let us embark on this journey of discovery, preparation, and empowerment! If your child has struggled in school and you are interested in taking a closer look at the factors that may be limiting their academic progress, avoid the waiting lists and contact me for a personal consultation.

Sweet Style in the September Issue

WELCOME TO THE #ROUTE10CORRIDOR ARTICLE & MONTHLY @HELLOFOODREVIEWS COLUMN FEATURING ESTABLISHMENTS FROM WESTFIELD TO NORTHAMPTON!

Welcome to Pasticceria Italia, Southwick’s own Italian pastry and coffee shop! Upon entering, you feel the warmth of fresh baked goods and breathe in a whiff of delightful treats. I found myself having a hard time deciding which pastry to try since they all looked incredible, so I sampled a variety.

First was the Red Velvet Cake. The flavor took me by surprise as it was sweet like maple syrup. Then came the Lemon Cake. This one was my favorite as I am a

sucker for anything lemon. The Chocolate Tiramisu slice was an overload of mocha and chocolate swirls that did a happy dance on my tongue. I loved every minute! Next was the Blueberry Cheesecake. It was a breath of fresh air; plain, yet rich in flavor, with the biggest blueberries on top. Last but not least was the authentic, famous Italian cookies. These cookies hold a special place in my heart as they were my grandmother’s favorite.

Pastries, cookies, cannolis, coffee, soups, and stuffed breads; what more could you want?

Pasticceria Italia has it all! If you follow my blog you know I have a big sweet tooth, and I left very satisfied! They are open Tuesday - Saturday 7am-6pm and Sunday 9am-3pm, located at  610 College Highway in Southwick. For more footage, head to my page @hellofoodreviews on Instagram.

THE little BLACK DRESS

Most of us can say we have that one staple black dress that can be worn at any occasion, and the classic look is not only popular but is elegant and timeless. It is one of the most versatile items we own, never goes out of style and looks good on anyone. But how did this classic look originate?

Prior to the 1920’s, black was reserved for funeral wear, but when Coco Channel made the bold move to print a short, black dress on the cover of Vogue in 1926, all of that changed. The popularity of the black dress skyrocketed, and it became one of the most influential pieces of clothing. Because of its affordability, black remained a popular choice during The Great Depression. The black dress had another boom in popularity when “Breakfast at Tiffany’s’’ debuted, and Audrey Hepburn showcased her iconic black dress with long, black gloves.

We enlisted the help of stylist, Amani Skalacki, to show us how versatile the little black dress can be. “We usually think of the little black dress as a piece you wear to an event. However, because black is so flattering on all body types and skin tones, women have multiple black dresses from casual to evening,” Amani says.

“A sequin dress can be dressed up with heels, or that same dress can be transformed into a casual outfit with the addition of tennis shoes and an oversized blazer or a denim jacket. Transform that strappy dress you have been wearing all summer into an outfit that is perfect for chilly fall temperatures. Add a narrow scarf, a leather jacket and sandals or a tall pointy boot, and you have a whole new look for an evening out,” Amani adds.

If you have a dress in the back of your closet that you haven’t worn in years, don’t be afraid to dust it off and give it new life.

Are you looking for the best cut or style of dress that works best for your body type?

HOURGLASS FIGURE:

• V-necklines

• Cinched-in waistlines

• Tailored/fitted dresses

PEAR OR TRIANGLE

FIGURE:

• Tailored dresses

• Off the shoulder

ATHLETIC FIGURE:

• Embellished

• Ruffles

• Empire waist

• Volume is your friend

APPLE FIGURE:

• Drop waist

• A-line

The dress that all body types can’t go wrong with is a wrap dress of any length.

ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES

STYLIST: AMANI SKALACKI

ALTHOUGH BLACK IS A timeless, classic LOOK, THAT DOESN’T MEAN IT GOES WITHOUT personality . YOU CAN MAKE IT YOUR OWN STYLE BY accessorizing TO INFUSE NEW LIFE INTO A DRESS THAT YOU ALREADY OWN.

Nutrition Tip of the Month:

Pomegranates are rich with anthocyanins and ellagitannins, which are powerful antioxidants. Pomegranates are also rich in potassium, which helps keep muscles strong. These ruby-red edible seeds and juice keep cells safe, lowering the risk of cancer, heart disease and many chronic diseases.

An 8 oz. glass of pomegranate juice has more antioxidants than green tea!

Fall Graduate Information Sessions

events

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

School St. Saturdays!

SCHOOL STREET, WESTFIELD | 10:00 AM

The small businesses downtown have created a space to support the smaller businesses in Westfield all summer long! Come join us and 40+ different vendors from Westfield for shopping, food, organic juices, coffee, raffles, deals, and more! For more information, visit Champagne Apothecary’s facebook page.

Westfield Farmers’ Market

EPISCOPAL CHURCH OF THE ATONEMENT, 36 COURT ST, WESTFIELD | 12:00 PM

The Westfield Farmers’ Market provides locally grown agricultural products and hand-made crafts. The Market is held every Thursday from 12:00 - 5:00 pm on the lawn of the Episcopal Church of the Atonement from June until early October.  Visit westfieldfarmersmarket.org for more information.

Autumn Sunflower Bar

ECLECTIC FINDS AT THE BISMARCK, 16 UNION AVE, WESTFIELD | 4:00 PM

What is a flower bar? It’s a place where you can be your own florist and create your own insta-worthy bouquet to take home with you. For more information, visit: bouquetsofthevalley.square.site/workshops

Westfield Shred Event

WESTFIELD BANK, 300 SOUTHAMPTON RD, WESTFIELD | 9:00 AM

Join us on September 9th for a free shred event! PROSHRED security will be on-site to safely and efficiently shred your unwanted documents, up to five small boxes maximum per person. For more information, visit: proshred.com/springfield/events/shred-event-at-westfield-bank-5 .

On The Fly-FCM acoustic Live

FOUR DAD’S PUB, 141 CONGAMOND RD, SOUTHWICK | 6:00 PM

Join Dan and Glenn at Four Dad’s Pub in Southwick, MA. Playing all of your acoustic favorites from the 70’s, 80’s, 90’s, 2000’s up to today. For more information, visit On The Fly-FCM Acoustic Live's facebook page.

BAR FIGHT 3! Hosted by Westfield River Brewing Company

707 COLLEGE HIGHWAY, SOUTHWICK | 6:00 PM

Join us Friday September 29th at 6pm for part 3 of our Summer BAR FIGHT! series. The 60 minute class will include basic and advanced self defense techniques from various levels of our training curriculum.  For more information, visit primalkravmagane.com

Want to be featured?

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

Through our partnership with the Mass Save® program, we are pleased to offer 0% APR, no interest loans to finance eligible energy improvements. We offer loans up to $15,000 with terms up to 7 years to qualified applicants.*

Heating System Replacements Water Heaters

Central Air Conditioning and Heat Pumps

Insulation and Replacement Windows PARTNER

*Customers must meet program eligibility requirements to participate. Eligibility for the HEAT Loan Program is based on completing a Home Energy Assessment. Some restrictions apply and offers are subject to change or cancellation. Financing is subject to credit approval. Additional terms and conditions apply. Visit MassSave.com/HEATLoan or call 1-866-527-SAVE (7283) for details and to learn more about the program. Loan amounts of $500 to $2,000 have a maximum term of 24 months. Loan amounts of $2,001 to $15,000 have a maximum term of 84 months. Payment examples: a $2,000 loan for 24 months has monthly payments of $83.33 and a $15,000 loan for 84 months has monthly payments of $178.57. 0% APR, no prepayment penalty and no closing fees. All loan applications are subject to credit union underwriting guidelines and property approval. Consult a tax advisor concerning deductibility of interest.

You must become a member of the Polish National Credit Union if you are granted a loan and must remain a member for the life of the loan. Membership is attained by opening deposit account and is open to individuals who live, work or attend school in Hampden, Hampshire, Berkshire and Franklin counties in Massachusetts and Hartford, Litchfield and Tolland counties in Connecticut.

INGREDIENTS

• 1 1/2 oz- Cucumber & dragon fruit gin

• 3/4oz- Toasted black sesame Velvet Falernum

• 1/2oz- Lime juice

• Topped with ginger beer

• Hawaiian black lava salt & black sesame

GARNISH

• Small paint brush

• Simple syrup

• Hawaiian black lava salt mixed with a pinch of black sesame

The Magic Dragon

Make a Statement With This Stylish Cocktail

INSTRUCTIONS

Infused Gin: Infuse 1 whole peeled and cut cucumber in gin for a week. Strain the cucumbers out. Add 1 tablespoon of organic dragonfruit powder and mix very well with a whisk. To make the syrup, toast 1/2 cup of black sesame at 350 for 10 minutes. Take it out and let it cool. In a mortar and pestle, grind the toasted black sesame, but not too fine. Add the sesame into one bottle of John D. Taylor’s Velvet Falernum. Let that set for about 2 to 3 days and use cheese cloth to strain out the fine bits of sesame. Juice one fresh lime and strain to remove the pulp.

Cocktail: Paint a strip of simple syrup down a Collins glass. Take a spoon full of Hawaiian black lava salt mixed with black sesame and layer that down where the painted simple syrup was placed. In a shaker tin combine: 1 1/2oz cucumber dragon fruit gin, 3/4oz toasted black sesame Velvet Falernum, and 1/2oz lime juice and shake that up!  Fill the painted glass with ice (I use crushed ice) and strain over the ice. Top with your favorite ginger beer (my choice is fever tree ginger beer).

Enjoy limited time offers!

Specials available at any bankESB office for a limited time and may be withdrawn without notice.

1 9-MONTH CD

5.12% Annual Percentage Yield (APY) - Promotional offer is available to existing and new checking account customers only. For new customers, both accounts, checking and CD, must be opened at the same time to unlock bump up rate of 5.12% APY.

4.85% Annual Percentage Yield (APY) - Promotional offer is available to new or existing customers without a checking account.

9-Month CD rates are effective as of 7/1/2023. Minimum CD opening deposit is $1,000. Automatically renews at maturity for 9 months at the then current CD rate and term. Minimum balance to obtain APY is $0.01. Substantial penalty for early withdrawal. Available for IRAs and business customers.

2 $300 ACCOUNT BONUS

Special offer is for opening a new Get Real Checking SM account. Minimum balance to open Get Real Checking SM is $10. Bonuses are for new checking account customers and limited to one account per customer. Bonus payouts may be 1099 reportable. Account must be in good standing and have a positive balance at the time the bonus is paid. May not be combined with other promotional offers. Customers who have previously received a bonus on a checking account closed with the bank within the previous 12 months are not eligible. This is a limited time offer and subject to change without notice. $200 promotional offer is for opening a Get Real Checking SM account and activating direct deposit (of at least $25) OR enrolling in Online Banking and conducting 5 debit card transactions using your debit card within the first 60 days of account opening ($200 will be credited to the account by the last day of the statement cycle following the 60th day the account has been open). $50 promotional offer is for making 5 bill payments using Online Banking OR enrolling in eStatements within 60 days of account opening ($50 will be credited to the account by the last business day of the statement cycle following the 60th day the account has been open). Minors (anyone under the age of 18) are not eligible for Online Bill Pay. $50 loyalty bonus will be paid after the account has been open for 12 months ($50 will be credited to the account by the last day of the statement cycle following the 365th day the account has been open).