Sports + Recreation

5 Local Hikes in Western Mass

Accessible, Dog-Lovers, Night-Friendly, Rigorous, and Right by Food Article by Virginia Maldonado 1. Universal Access Trail @ Mount Tom in Holyoke  An 0.8mi loop introductory hike that is wheelchair accessible and winds though white pine and hardwood forest, with wetland and lake views, out to Bray Brook bridge. There is an alternate accessible route so users can make a shorter loop trail on the return. Hungry? Hit up Tavern On The Hill right across the street!  2. Mount Holyoke Summit @...

Auto + Marine

Where will the Road Take You?

Discover New Driving Options at Sarat Ford Lincoln Article by Maureen Sullivan | Photography by j81 Studios So, you want to take off on a road trip and explore somewhere you’ve never been – or maybe you want to visit the town where you grew up or visit faraway friends.   The thing is, you don’t want to drive your old car and put all those miles on it – or maybe you’re taking the family and there’s not enough room in your car for everyone and their luggage plus your best canine friend. You...

Food + Beverage

Chappy's Mobile Culinary Experience

A Gourmet Taste of Togetherness Article by Virginia Maldonado | Photography by C.Pinney Photography In a world of fixed menus and cookie-cutter flavors, Chappy’s Mobile Culinary Experience rolls in gourmet food with a side of versatility and a whole lot of heart. Fueled by husband-and-wife team Sarah Teal and Jim Wood, this vibrant trailer is driven by passion, family, and a love for bringing people together through food.  The inspiration behind Chappy’s is steeped in years of global...

Arts + Culture

j81 Studios

The Perfect Picture - With a Kick Article by Wade Rivest | Photography by j81 Studios Think back to when you were a child; can you pinpoint what lead you to where you are today?  For local photographer Jon Jones, it was when his grandfather introduced him to Photoshop, allowing him to get in touch with his creative side.  From there, Jon took that inspirational nudge to design school, and then into the world of advertising.  For the next two decades, Jones was able to hone his skills in the...

Auto + Marine

Al's Tire

A 1932 Legacy Gets a Local Tune-Up Article by Virginia Maldonado | Photography by C.Pinney Photography Westfield’s own Al’s Tire has been keeping vehicles road-ready for over 93 years, and now, the shop enters a new era with owner Tim Judd at the helm. A lifelong Western Mass resident with family ties to Southampton and deep roots across the region, Tim took ownership in 2023 with a clear vision: preserve the legacy, modernize the experience, and prioritize relationships over transactions.  ...

Professional Services

Southwick Insurance

Protecting What Matters Most Article by Amanda Waterfield | Photography by C.Pinney Photography Southwick Insurance’s Daniel Hess has seen it all in his 40-plus years in the insurance industry. After a brief stint as a middle school teacher, Dan quickly found that the insurance industry was a great fit, and within three years of starting in the field, he founded the agency that has been his 9 to 5 home for 38 years. Dan’s competitive drive has kept him engaged over the years. “Sales is...

Health + Wellness

GLP-1 Agonists

Are They Worth All The Hype For Weight Loss? Article by Jennifer Giffune, RDN GLP-1 stands for glucagon-like peptide-1 hormone that impacts blood sugar & weight.  It manages blood sugar by boosting insulin.  It controls appetite by slowing down digestion.  GLP-1 agonists are medications that have been shown to treat blood sugar and promote weight loss.  In 2014, The FDA approved Saxenda was approved for weight loss.  In 2023, Zepbound was approved for weight loss. GLP-1 agonists are...

Real Estate

Duane Desilets

A Steady Hand in an Ever-Changing Market Article by Wade Rivest | Photography by Elle Bacon Since 2006, local real estate agent Duane Desilets has been a trusted name in home buying and selling. In a market that’s always evolving, Duane has remained a consistent force—thanks to his experience, calmness under pressure, and a genuine commitment to helping people. Prior to real estate, Duane served from 1999 to 2005 as an Airman right here at the 104th Fighter Wing. As part of the base's fire...

Home + Design

Tynic Landscaping

Painting Your Yard into the Perfect Picture Article by Virginia Maldonado | Photography by Tynic Landscaping & j81 Studios Hydrangeas bloom into soft pastels. Verdant boxwood bushes and towering arborvitaes add privacy and form. A showcase of plants and foliage unfold in curated designs. Even on a rainy day, Scott Lamon – sole proprietor of Tynic Landscaping, Inc. – is crafting your dream outdoor space.  Tynic Landscaping takes pride in every bloom and blade as a master residential and...

Education

Kate Senecal

Bringing the Art of Writing to Western Mass Article by Wade Rivest | Photography by j81 Studios For over 15 years, local teacher Kate Senecal has been taking her passion for writing and passing her skills along to her students. After a stint at Clark University and HCC, Kate decided she needed something more.  She needed a better way to connect with her students in order for them to hone their skills and truly develop their craft of writing.  Kate brings an amazing wealth of experience and...