Life + Culture

The Most Magical Time of the Year

Celebrating the Holidays with the Boys and Girls Club Article by Amanda Waterfield | Photography by Boys & Girls Club Holiday celebrations can bring excitement and joy to little ones, but the season of celebration can also be difficult for families who need a little extra support. That’s where the Boys and Girls Club of Greater Westfield comes in. Year-round, the Club provides activities and resources that are constantly changing to meet the needs of the children. When the holidays roll...

Life + Culture

Jasmine’s Journey

Standing Tall Under the Weight of Scoliosis Article by Virginia Maldonado | Photography by C.Pinney Photography 9 years old. Just like the number itself and the letter ‘J’ found in her family name, Jasmine Judd's spine curled into a curvature. A routine checkup revealed the condition that would mark the start of a bumpy journey filled with highs, lows, and Higgy Bears in between. With courage, heart, and a cute teddy bear in hand, Jasmine stands tall and smiles at the forefront of her future...

Food + Beverage

The Ultimate DIY Hot Cocoa Bar

A Cozy Christmas Tradition Article and Photography by Madeline LeBlanc Last Christmas, the DIY Hot Cocoa Bar was the biggest hit at my house! We kept things simple with Swiss Miss Cocoa Mix as the base, but the real fun came with the toppings. Guests had a blast adding cotton candy, crushed peppermint, and festive marshmallow toppers like snowman peeps. For an extra treat, we even included hot cocoa mix on a stick, which made stirring a bit more exciting. The adult crowd enjoyed a boozy twist...

Shopping

Pilgrim Candle

Where Holiday Cheer Meets Entertaining Essentials Article by Maureen Sullivan | Photography by C.Pinney Photography Festive is the one word that could describe the atmosphere at Pilgrim Candle during this time of year. From seasonal decorations and entertaining essentials to hostess gifts, corporate gifts and presents for almost anyone on your list, you’ll find a little of everything. The spirit of the season is everywhere, so it’s easy to find decorations to give your home a holiday glow...

Health + Wellness

BICC

Join the Clubhouse Article by Amanda Waterfield | Photography by j81 Studios A unique resource in the heart of Westfield is providing individuals with traumatic brain injury the opportunity to share experiences of healing, challenges, and day-to-day living. The Brain Injury Community Center (BICC) of Western Mass is a program of Berkshire County Arc (BCArc), an agency which provides services for individuals with disabilities across Berkshire County and Pioneer Valley. BCArc's services include...

Life + Culture

Sky High Dreams

Female Pilot Inspires Young Adventurers in New Book Article by Maureen Sullivan | Photography by Willow & Grace Photography “Look up, go up.” Those are the words that pilot Saba Shahid learned from her flying instructor, the late Frederika Ballard, founder of Fly Lugu, the flight school at Barnes Airport in Westfield. Saba is grateful for the times she flew with Frederika and for the lessons learned on her way to becoming a pilot. Her book, “My Mama is a Pilot,” is dedicated to her memory. Her...

Food + Beverage

Perfect Homemade Holiday Pie

Kosinski Farms, A Fall Tradition Article and Photography by Madeline LeBlanc   Kosinski Farms, located in Westfield, MA, is a beloved local gem known for its fresh, homemade pies that are perfect for the fall season and Thanksgiving celebrations. From classic apple to decadent pumpkin, each pie is made with locally sourced ingredients, ensuring rich flavors and a homemade touch. Their pies are a holiday favorite, offering the perfect balance of flaky crust and sweet, spiced fillings. Whether...

Health + Wellness

Eat Your Way to Lower Cholesterol

Article by Jennifer Giffune, RDN Every 30 seconds, someone in the US dies from heart disease.  The emotional cost is massive.  The financial cost, immense – greater than $252 billion a year. It's crucial that you monitor your heart health with your PCP. It’s also essential that you choose nutritious foods to support heart health permanently. Heart health is evaluated by checking your lipids, meaning total cholesterol, LDL (the bad cholesterol) and HDL (the good cholesterol).  Goals for these...

Food + Beverage

Tribeca Gastro Bar & Grill

A Gourmet Fusion of History and Cuisine Article by Virginia Maldonado | Photography by Willow & Grace Photography In the heart of Westfield, MA, where tradition meets contemporary charm, Tribeca Gastro Bar & Grill has opened its doors, offering a culinary experience that is as rich in history as it is in flavor. The restaurant, set downtown in Lamson Square, beckons with its beautifully restored glass windows and original brickwork uncovered beneath layers of time. This meticulous renovation...

Food + Beverage

Emma's Everyday Gourmet

A Taste of Italy in Westfield Article and Photography by Madeline LeBlanc At Emma’s Everyday Gourmet Restaurant and Bar in Westfield, MA, culinary excellence meets warm hospitality. One standout dish is the Veal Saltimbocca, where tender veal is sautéed in butter, topped with prosciutto di Parma and fresh mozzarella, and finished in a red and white wine lemon and sage sauce. Each bite is a harmonious blend of flavors, transporting diners to the heart of Italy. Whether you’re a local or just...