Entertainment

Keeping the Fun in our Lives

Day and Night Party Rental Article by Wade Rivest | Photography by Day and Night Party Rental Recently I had the pleasure of speaking with Dan Gagnon, owner of Day and Night Party Rental, and his General Manager Morgan Proulx, about what drives them, and some offers we may have not even known they had.  With over 15 years in the business, Day and Night Party Rentals has proven to be the local go-to for your get together entertainment.    One other thing I learned after this great conversation…...

April 2024

Education

Generational Nurturing

Creative Kids Stands Test of Time Article by Virginia Maldonado | Photography by Creative Kids Creative Kids in Westfield was established in 1986 by Fran Frere and Sherri Morini who are still operating this unique preschool. They both continue to cultivate a special place for working parents to leave their children with familiar faces every day. The preschool cares for infants, toddlers and preschoolers in a nurturing and educational environment, challenging their little minds in each age...

April 2024

Beauty

Basia Belz - Stylist with a Mission

Taking Action Though "Hairapy" Article by Amanda Waterfield | Photography by j81 Studios From behind the stylist’s chair, Basia Belz, owner of Vivid Salon and Spa, serves as a “hairapist” – someone who is privy to the highs, lows, and challenges of the clients who sit in her chair. This access gives her a unique insight into the struggles that young people face in terms of bullying and feeling accepted. Basia has taken on the cause of bullying by serving as a longtime board member of the...

April 2024

Food + Beverage

The Perfect Blend

Congamond Coffee & Café is one woman’s dream come true Article by Maureen Sullivan | Photography by Willow and Grace Photography Pam Sclafani had always dreamed of owning a coffee café. After many years of working in real estate marketing, Pam realized her dream when the owners of the café that was formerly in the historic building at 108 Congamond Rd. in Southwick, put the business up for sale. The spacious building, located along the Southwick Rail Trail, is the perfect setting for...

April 2024

Food + Beverage

Spotlight on Chrissy G’s Bakery

Indulge Mom with Delectable Delights this Mother's Day! Article and Photography by Madeline LeBlanc This Mother’s Day, treat Mom to a delightful array of desserts from Chrissy G’s Bakery. Whether she craves tangy fruits or rich chocolates, Chrissy G’s has something for every palate to make her day extra special. Start the celebration with a raspberry turnover, bursting with ripe berry flavors encased in flaky pastry, sure to awaken Mom’s taste buds. Indulge her with a millionaire bar, boasting...

April 2024

Health + Wellness

Always Tired?

Maybe You're Anemic Article by By: Jennifer Giffune, R.D.N. Ask anyone who has been anemic, and you’ll hear the same thing, “I was just so tired!” Iron helps the blood carry oxygen to cells. Anemia means there isn’t enough iron to help and the result is fatigue. Anemia is the leading nutritional deficiency worldwide. More women than men have anemia. There are many causes of anemia, such as rapid growth, inadequate intake, blood loss, and poor absorption. Fatigue is not the only symptom of...

April 2024

Food + Beverage

Investing in Good Beer

Bright Ideas Brewery Westfield Article and Photography by Madeline LeBlanc Investing in good quality beer can be a lucrative endeavor for those with a discerning palate and an eye for opportunity. As the craft beer movement continues to gain momentum, more consumers are seeking unique and flavorful brews every day, creating a growing market for high-quality beer offerings.   Bright Ideas Brewing, nestled in Westfield, Massachusetts, is a prime destination for beer enthusiasts and investors...

March 2024

Health + Wellness

Self-investment for Health and Happiness

A guide to self-care Article by Amanda Waterfield Self-investment for Health and Happiness When your life is full of commitments, responsibilities, and distractions, it can be easy to let self-care fall by the wayside. But putting yourself at the top of your priority list delivers a wealth of advantages. Dallas Pilecki, M. Ed., LMHC is the co-owner of Serendipity Psych in Westfield. He encourages people to recognize the value of self-care. “The best investment we can make is in ourselves,”...

March 2024

Health + Wellness

Investing in Community & Recovery

Combating Crisis through Caring Article by Virginia Maldonado City Lifestyle - Kim Slade of The City of Westfield Health Department   Kim Slade is here to help raise awareness on safety, education, and action surrounding substance use here in the City of Westfield. Armed with years’ experience in prevention and harm reduction, Kim has a heart of gold and is here as an asset to the town’s Health Department and the community it serves.   Q: Introduce yourself! Who are you and what is your...

March 2024

Life + Culture

Supporting Local

Investing in the Community from a Larger Perspective Article by Wade Rivest With all the talk of “investing” that you will see in this issue, I feel this is the perfect opportunity to discuss a few local community members and organizations that really help to make our community thrive.  Now, understand that there are too many to list, so I really am just going to try to scratch the surface here.  I’ll start with a little background on me, and my hopes and vision for local small businesses.  ...

March 2024