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City Lifestyle West Springfield | November 2021

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LIFESTYLE LETTER

NOVEMBER 2021 PUBLISHER

Amanda Brodkin | amanda.brodkin@lifestylepubs.com EDITORIAL COORDINATOR

A New Voice for West Springfield and Agawam AS I WRITE THESE WORDS ON A WARM SEPTEMBER EVENING, IT STRIKES ME THAT AUTUMN IS A TIME FOR RENEWAL, FRESH STARTS, AND NEW ADVENTURES -- BEGINNINGS RATHER THAN ENDINGS. I always loved the start of the school year, the crisp feeling of a fresh notebook, and the change of wardrobe from summer shorts to sweaters and boots.

Kelly Hawkins | kelly.hawkins@lifestylepubs.com AD DESIGNER

Chad Jensen L AYO UT DESIGNER

Kirstan Lanier CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Adam Bulger, Jeffrey Champagne, Hailey MacDonald CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Michael Epaul, Karen Slack, Adam Wright

You might be wondering what any of this has to do with the magazine you are holding in your hands. City Lifestyle West Springfield is the product of a change in my vocation, a detour in my plan, and a dream brought to life. As with all things autumn-related, this publication represents transition. I'm delighted to be able to bring you articles that inform and entertain, with a focus on the fantastic businesses and people in our midst. You'll meet one such person, John Matlock, in the Building to Beauty article. My hope is that you will find in these pages inspiration and a sense of community. Our towns are strong, proud, rich in tradition, and teeming with talent and resources. As a transplant to West Springfield, I am constantly discovering businesses, organizations, people, and places that impress, delight, and engage.

CORPORATE TEAM CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson

We may not agree on everything, but surely we can agree that the communities of

AD MANAGER Chad Jensen

West Springfield and Agawam/Feeding Hills have much to offer and enjoy. I intend

REGIONAL SALES DIRECTOR Eric Williams

to share with you the best of what we have right here at home.

WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell

Amanda Brodkin, Publisher 514 W 26TH ST., KANSAS CITY, MO

CityLifestyle.com/WestSpringfield ON THE COVER Bear Hole Reservoir PHOTOGRAPHY BY ADAM WRIGHT 4

City Lifestyle West Springfield | November 2021

Proverbs 3:5-6 City Lifestyle West Springfield™ 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 City Lifestyle West Springfield™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

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WESTERN MASSACHUSETTS’ ONLY MULTI-SPORT TRAINING FACILITY

30,000 square feet including: 2 Smaller Ice Rinks, Golf Simulators, Batting Cages, Turf Field, Boxed Field, Full Workout Gym OFFERINGS: Training in all sports / Clinics year round / Small group and individualized training offered Affiliated with the Greater Springfield Aces / Home of the Patriots baseball program Golf tournaments, lessons, fittings / Individual, small group or team training Strength and conditioning / Birthday parties Mcutrainingcenter.com | 413-301-6040 | 153 Springfield Street, Agawam MA 01001 CityLifestyle.com/WestSpringfield

INSIDE THE ISSUE NOVEMBER 2021

FEATURES 14 Building to Beauty West Springfield Resident Uses Talent and Passion to Give Back to Community

18 Smokin’ Scoops Thinks Outside the Ice Cream Box The West Springfield Nitrogen Ice Cream Shop Makes Ice Cream Cool Again

22 Major League Dining Shortstop Bar and Grill Head Chef Monica Guarnieri Shares Recipe for Success

22 18

26 Brown Butter Old Fashioned A New Twist on a Traditional Classic by The Federal

DEPARTMENTS 4

Lifestyle Letter

Good Times

Around Town

Artist’s Palette

City Scene

22 Local’s Choice 26 Culinary Creations 30 Inspired By 32 Lifestyle Calendar

CityLifestyle.com/WestSpringfield

GOOD TIMES

Boys & Girls Club Fundraiser a Success The West Springfield Boys & Girls Club hosted their “Flutes & Flavors” fundraiser on September 16th at the Springfield Country Club. This year’s event was their most successful thus far, helping to raise $50,000 in support of youth programs. More than 300 guests attended, participating in the auction and enjoying samples from a variety of local food and beverage vendors. PHOTOGRAPHY: SENDRA PRODUCTIONS

City Lifestyle West Springfield | November 2021

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AROUND TOWN

LOCK & KEY REALTY IS GROWING Our team of licensed real estate professionals is

ALVANOS & ASSOCIATES - HELPING CLIENTS REACH FINANCIAL GOALS

growing! We will be adding three individuals to the

My name is Susan Alvanos. I'm a Private Wealth

Theroux and Company Team by the end of the year

Advisor and owner of Alvanos & Associates with

and will hit the ground running for a strong 2022.

Ameriprise Financial LLC. My purpose is to help you

This year we have sold about $6 million in home

feel confident, connected and in control of your finan-

sale volume with many more pending, and my team

cial life. When you work with me, you receive one-to-

member, Erika, just received her first accepted

one financial advice based on your goals and needs,

offer! Pictured: owner Brittany Theroux.

portfolio management, protection planning, regular meetings to review your goals, progress and investments, and anytime access to digital tools to help you. Set up a complimentary consultation. My team's ready to help you with your financial goals. 413.821.9380

FITNESS FIRST CELEBRATES 36 YEARS IN BUSINESS Fitness First Health and Fitness Center, located in Feeding Hills, is celebrating 36 years in business this month and now you can try it for one week free! Owners Kurt and Paula Welker have managed their successful business all these years through many challenges and getting through the pandemic has certainly been their biggest challenge so far. Fortunately, their dedicated family membership base keeps the

THE MAD LASHER HOUSE OF BEAUTY WELCOMES NEW AESTHETICIAN

a gym; it is an all-inclusive health club that offers a wide variety of fitness classes and programs with the area's

The Mad Lasher House of Beauty welcomes their

best instructors. They recently remodeled the club and

new aesthetician, Isabella Brothers! Isabella grad-

brought in new equipment while they were closed

uated from Asnuntuck Community College where

during the pandemic. They offer a beautiful indoor

she obtained her aesthetician license in both

swimming pool and hot tub, which have helped bring

Massachusetts and Connecticut. Growing up, she

back members much faster than most gyms. This

loved enhancing everybody’s natural beauty, starting

month, Fitness First is offering a free week trial of its

with their skin care. As a welcoming for Isabella, we will

facilities and classes as well as waiving the $200 enroll-

be offering a giveaway for anyone who books a new

ment fee to join the club. Visit Fitness First Facebook or

service with her. They will have a chance to win a free

call 413.786.1460 for more information.

facial! We are so excited to have her as part of our team! 10

health club going strong. Fitness First is more than just

City Lifestyle West Springfield | November 2021

CONTINUED >

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

Enrolling Now! 3 6 6 Ch i c o pe e St r e e t Ch i c o pe e , MA 4 1 3 - 3 1 3 - 2 3 07 CityLifestyle.com/WestSpringfield

AROUND TOWN

COMMUNITY HUMAN RESOURCES OPENS IN SPRINGFIELD C.HR (Community Human Resources) is a consulting company that assists with hiring, strategy, operations, logistics, and communications. If your business is thriving faster than you can manage, or you're ready to launch a startup, we will help. Our team has unique skill sets that allow us to assist in multiple industries. Like in our name, we put community first -- we take the time to understand where your business is located to help you connect with the people in your community. Visit our website CHRService.org to set up a consultation. Common. Row upon row of flags will be displayed with a tag on each flag containing information about a veteran or dedicated to a group of veterans of one of the United States Armed Forces. The flags are sponsored by Hampden County residents and businesses, and the event has raised over $50,000 in college scholarships for children or grandchildren of veterans.

THE WEST OF THE RIVER CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ASSISTING BUSINESSES The West of the River Chamber of Commerce has been focusing on keeping its members informed about Covid restrictions/regulations and offering virtual and in-person/hybrid networking events to ensure that businesses are continuing to grow and prosper. Collaborative networking opportunities allow our members to connect and build again with other local businesses. The West

Attorney Ronda G. Parish is a lawyer specializing

of the River Chamber Networking After 5’s and

in the areas of trusts and estate planning, elder law,

our Legislative Breakfasts/Luncheons provide our

guardianships and conservatorships, business law,

members with networking opportunities as well

taxation, residential and commercial real estate, with

as contact with our local legislators to express

a unique specialty in qualified retirement plans and

concerns we have in the Western Mass area.

IRAs. She has been recognized in Best Lawyers in

WestOfTheRiverChamber.com

America and is rated AV preeminent, the highest

THE VETERANS PARK OF HEROES OPENS FOR THE FIFTH YEAR The West Springfield Lions Club will be proudly presenting The Veterans Park of Heroes from October 9 - November 14, 2021 on the West Springfield Town 12

ATTORNEY RONDA G. PARISH ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS

City Lifestyle West Springfield | November 2021

rating afforded by Martindale Hubbell. She is a member of the Hampden County, Massachusetts and American Bar Associations. Her office is open to new and existing clients. She welcomes the opportunity to meet with you. 413-301-0850.

LASH EXTENSIONS • HENNA BROW TINTING BROW LAMINATION • FACIALS CHEMICAL PEELS • DERMAPLANING

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Mad Lasher House of Beauty 341 N Westfield St, Feeding Hills 413.363.1386

Your personal financial goals deserve a personal approach. Susan N Alvanos, CFP®, CLTC®, ChFC®, CEPA® Private Wealth Advisor 413.821.9380 1349 Springfield St. Feeding Hills, MA 01030 susan.n.alvanos@ampf.com ameripriseadvisors.com/ susan.n.alvanos

Ameriprise Financial Services, LLC. Member FINRA and SIPC. Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards Inc. owns the certification marks CFP®, CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ and CFP (with plaque design) in the U.S. © 2021 Ameriprise Financial, Inc.

For Reservations Waitlist.me App or Call Us!

CityLifestyle.com/WestSpringfield

ARTIST’S PALETTE

BUILDING

TO BEAUTY WEST SPRINGFIELD RESIDENT USES TALENT AND PASSION TO GIVE BACK TO COMMUNITY ARTIST AND LIFELONG WEST SPRINGFIELD RESIDENT JOHN MATLOCK RECENTLY TRANSFORMED A GRIM BUILDING SIDE INTO A VIBRANT MARINE DISPLAY. The mural, illustrated to face the Alice Corson Playground at 373 Main Street, is made up of nautical hues to create a beautiful array of radiant fish. Matlock, an accomplished muralist, graduated from the University ARTICLE HAILEY MACDONALD

of Massachusetts Amherst with a Bachelor’s in Fine Arts and a con-

PHOTOGRAPHY KAREN SLACK

centration in Painting. His artwork has traveled across the country and has been featured in art galleries and festivals; now his talent is being used to beautify his hometown. The Main Street Mural became a reality thanks to the West Springfield Community Development Division as well as its sponsors: Red Thread Network for the Arts, West Springfield Arts Council, Florence Bank, V & F Auto, Powers Law Group, Teddy Bear

City Lifestyle West Springfield | November 2021

Pools, Kelley & Katzer Real Estate, John and Patricia Kendzierski, and Pintu’s Indian Palace. “West Side needs more art displays in town,” says Mayor William Reichelt, who is very much on board with town beautification through art. “I think it improves the aesthetic of the community as well as financially supporting local artists, much like we support local businesses.” This is the second work of art Matlock has painted in West Springfield. His first creation, a mural at Memorial Pool, is an under-the-sea theme too. His third mural is at Little Futures, the Boys and Girls Club preschool, and his fourth is at Piper Pond. “It feels very rewarding to be so well received by the people in the town that I grew up in and to be able to share the gift that God gave me to maybe help brighten up a street or two,” says Matlock. He is happy that his art can “add a bit of unique flavor to the town.”

CityLifestyle.com/WestSpringfield

JOHN R. SWEENEY I N S U R A N C E AG E N C Y

HOME ◆ AUTO ◆ SMALL BUSINESS John R Sweeney Insurance Agency provides superior customer service and represents the top l o c a l a n d n a t i o n a l i n s u r a n c e c a r r i e r s . We h a v e a n ex p e r i e n c e d t e a m t h a t c a n a n a l y z e y o u r i n s u r a n c e needs and suggest the best options

Come learn about Irish dance, music, and culture! Perfect for those who just love to dance and for those who love the thrill of competition!

SERVING WEST SPRINGFIELD AND THE SURROUNDING COMMUNITY SINCE 1952. John R. Sweeney CIC,CISR West Springf ie ld

Christine Whitehead Office Manager E a s t Lo n g m e a d o w

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communityhrservices@gmail.com 16

City Lifestyle West Springfield | November 2021

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

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We specialize in the latest trends with • haircuts and styles • hair color • facials • hair extensions • pedicures • manicures • wax We invite you to enjoy an atmosphere of tranquility where you can feel beautiful from the inside out.

Maritza Rivera • Salon Owner CityLifestyle.com/WestSpringfield

CITY SCENE

S m ok i n’ S c o o p s Th i n k s Outside the Ic e C r e a m B ox Nick Cebula adds liquid nitrogen to ice cream ingredients

Teaghan Hall chills out

Nitro ice cream, made to order

THE WEST SPRINGFIELD NITROGEN ICE CREAM SHOP MAKES ICE CREAM COOL AGAIN

City Lifestyle West Springfield | November 2021

ARTICLE ADAM BULGER PHOTOGRAPHY MICHAEL EPAUL

Smokin' Scoops has a hip but family-friendly vibe

IF YOU TALKED TO HIM A DECADE AGO, SMOKIN’

In the newly empty ice cream shop storefront,

SCOOPS OWNER JON GOODHIND WOULD HAVE

Goodhind and his co-owners, John Sonsini and Greg

LAUGHED AT THE SUGGESTION HE’D RUN AN ICE

Neffinger, saw a unique opportunity. The vacant shop

CREAM PARLOR. Back then, the fifth-generation West

offered a chance to not only start a business, but bring

Springfielder couldn’t imagine spending his days scoop-

something new to his hometown: a forward-thinking,

ing out vanilla into waffle cones. At the time, he was

science-fueled sweet spot with a unique approach to ice

happy with his career as a wholesale florist. He thought

cream and family fun. He envisioned a destination that

that if he ever opened a business, the store would be

appealed to adults as much as kids, a place with modern

much cooler than ice cream. Maybe something like a

style and urban sophistication offering an experience

tattoo studio.

that West Springfield residents usually had to travel to

Still, ice cream managed to sneak up on Goodhind anyway. The COVID-19 pandemic wilted the flower

downtown Northampton or the north end of Boston to enjoy. And from that idea, Smokin’ Scoops was born.

business and his job withered away with it. He’d opened

“I don't want us to be a traditional ice cream shop,”

a tattoo and piercing studio—West Springfield’s

Goodhind says. “We wanted something completely dif-

Colorbomb—and had a chance for a second business

ferent. I wanted to have it be a place where I would want

when a soft serve ice cream joint in Colorbomb’s strip

to hang out. A place where I want to go.”

mall closed its doors. The former business wasn’t a

The moment you step into Smokin’ Scoops, it’s

glamorous operation or a place particularly known for

obvious it isn’t your grandfather’s ice cream parlor.

inventive flavors. The previous shop was a traditional

There’s a bar instead of a counter. The overall design

suburban ice cream parlor with standard flavors and

is understated and modern, with a tavern feel that

formats, perfect for hot summer days and being over-

invites customers to relax and savor the experience.

looked during the rest of the year.

It’s closer to the sophisticated ambiance of a cool CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/WestSpringfield

CITY SCENE (CONTINUED)

neighborhood coffee shop than a brightly lit, chain

smoky-looking stuff—instantly freezes milk, sugar

ice cream store rushing to get customers out the

and flavoring. The speedy freezing forms small ice

door before their cones start to drip. “We play cool

crystals in the cream, creating a velvet-smooth

music,” Goodhind says. “We got a really cool vibe

taste sensation.

inside the shop. You walk in there, you wouldn't even know it's an ice cream shop.” The "smokin’" in Smokin’ Scoops' name isn’t just

ture to it. And that's because of liquid nitrogen.”

hyperbole. Smoke is at the core of Goodhind and

Smokin’ Scoops breaks from the traditions of ice

his crew’s ice cream approach. Smokin’ Scoops’

cream shops in another way that’s likely to delight

signature treat is liquid nitrogen ice cream.

adults as much as the nitrogen process wows kids:

Standard ice cream creation involves churning or

they serve alcohol. Smokin’ Scoops has a full liquor

whipping frozen cream and other flavors until ice

license. Adults can enjoy craft beers from local brew-

crystals form. Typically, ice cream is frozen and

eries like West Springfield’s Two Weeks Notice or

stored, then finally served.

freshly mixed boozey milkshakes (suggested nitro

Instead of churning and storing, Smokin’ Scoops

shake combos include vanilla ice cream and vodka

uses super-cold liquid nitrogen to make ice cream to

and chocolate ice cream with Skrewball Peanut

order, mixing fresh ingredients in the snap of a finger

Butter Whiskey). Goodhind says he doesn’t want

and a cloud of nitrogen smoke.

Smokin’ Scoops to be a place people only remem-

“We flash freeze it with liquid nitrogen, which comes out -325 degrees, so you don't get the bigger ice crystals like you do in traditional ice cream,” Goodhind explains. The use of nitrogen makes for a much more eye-catching display than digging into a big vat of

“It doesn't taste like traditional ice cream,” says Goodhind. “It's got a completely different kind of tex-

ber on steamy summer days, but an inviting place to enjoy a drink following a dinner out. “We want to remain family-friendly first and foremost, but we want a place where parents can bring their kids for ice cream and Mom and Dad can have a cocktail as well,” Goodhind shares.

vanilla with a scooper. “The kids are always really

Nitrogen ice cream isn’t brand new. The ice

impressed,” Goodhind says. “The faces they make

cream-making technique was discovered in the late

are priceless. Parents reach for their phones to

1980s. However, it’s still rare in most of the country,

take videos.”

outside of Florida and, oddly enough, Nebraska.

But the clouds of nitrogen do more than amaze

Smokin’ Scoops is not only the first nitrogen ice

kids. The nitrogen makes ice cream creamy—and

cream shop in West Springfield. It’s the first time

creaminess is a hot commodity for cold treats. Ice

that nitrogen ice cream has been available to

cream consistency is determined by the size of the

locals without requiring at least a 30-minute car

ice crystals inside it. Bigger crystals mean grittier,

ride. “Around the Northeast, there are a couple of

less creamy results, whereas smaller ones make

places,” says Goodhind. “There's a place in West

it smooth. Ice cream sold in cartons and over

Hartford, a Worcester place, one in Boston, and one

most counters often contains chemical additives

in New Hampshire.”

to give churned ice cream a creamy texture. But

Smokin’ Scoops offers 12 different ice cream

because nitrogen boils at the very chilly tempera-

flavors, with each made to order from fresh ingre-

ture of -196 degrees Celsius, its vapor—AKA the

dients. Goodhind says he plans to rotate some

City Lifestyle West Springfield | November 2021

Waffle cones are made fresh

ingredients is displayed in their more creative flavors, too. “We have cannoli, which uses mascarpone cheese and ricotta cheese, like you would have in a traditional cannoli,” Goodhind flavors in and out of the menu, either season-

says. Other exotic and unique Smokin’ Scoops

ally or monthly. Staple flavors include reliable

menu items include blood orange-flavored

favorites like vanilla, chocolate and strawberry.

tiger tail, vegan-friendly green matcha tea and

But like everything else at Smokin’ Scoops,

Russian honey cake, a takeoff on a traditional

even the seemingly ordinary is extraordinary.

Russian dessert.

Their signature chocolate ice cream, Creme

"We're doing some offbeat stuff," Goodhind

De Cacao, is made with 100 percent cacao

says. “You're not going to find these flavors in

chocolate and Crazy Cow vanilla, made from

traditional ice cream shops. We do have the

Madagascar vanilla bean. They serve straw-

basics, you know, for people who want to bring

berry ice cream but also offer a blueberry

their kids. But if you're feeling adventurous, we do

ice cream. For once, strawberry isn’t the only

have those flavors too.”

berry on the ice cream menu.

Smokin’ Scoops is located at 1425 Westfield

Smokin’ Scoops' attention to detail elevates

St. in West Springfield and can be reached by

traditional ice cream flavors like vanilla and

phone at 413.301.5876 and found on Instagram at

chocolate. And that careful consideration to

Instagram.com/SmokinScoops

CityLifestyle.com/WestSpringfield

LOCAL’S CHOICE

O M A J R LE A G U E

DI NI N G

Chef Monica Guarnieri at the bar of Shortstop Bar and Grill

SHORTSTOP BAR AND GRILL HEAD CHEF MONICA GUARNIERI SHARES RECIPE FOR SUCCESS ARTICLE JEFFREY CHAMPAGNE | PHOTOGRAPHY MICHAEL EPAUL

City Lifestyle West Springfield | November 2021

HORTSTOP BAR AND GRILL IN WESTFIELD HAS

BEEN PROUDLY SERVING WESTERN MASS FOR THE BETTER PART OF THE LAST DECADE. Head chef Monica Guarnieri shared, “This is all I’ve wanted to do and all I’ve known.” Monica, the daughter of Nabil and Julie Hannoush, has been involved with the restaurant since its inception, specializing in desserts. “My father emigrated from Lebanon when he was three. Since then, he’s started a variety of businesses and noticed there wasn’t a family-oriented sports bar

“What fascinated me as a child was seeing how a few simple ingredients are turned into delectable meals.” in the Pioneer Valley. Our goal was to create a sports-themed environment where women and children would feel included and welcomed.” At around age 10, Monica began baking custom orders for friends and family. “Being of Lebanese and Italian descent, food is a large part of those cultures, so it was a very natural thing for me to learn,” she explained. “It just so happened that it was also my calling. What fascinated me as a child was seeing how a few simple ingredients are turned into delectable meals.” Pursuing her interest in the culinary field, she attended the Culinary Institute of America in 2014, learning many skills that she is putting to use today at the Shortstop. “Our most popular dessert dish on the menu is the crème brulee. I also find that to be my specialty in baking.” As with many businesses across the country, Shortstop was hit hard by the COVID-19 pandemic, being one of the first establishments to voluntarily close its dining room and offer take out only. “I was pregnant with my daughter at the time, and the risk of transmission between my dad, myself, and CONTINUED >

The Shortstop dining room features sports memorabilia and lots of TVS CityLifestyle.com/WestSpringfield

LOCAL’S CHOICE (CONTINUED)

our employees just wasn’t worth it. It was financially hard, but we made it through. The surrounding community really rallied around us and we were able to stay open,” stated Monica. She believes it is important to give back to the same community that has helped the restaurant grow. Several students from the culinary program at Westfield Technical Academy are currently shadowing Monica and the employees. “It’s important to get them involved so they can earn real-world experience before they start their professional careers if they wish to do this.” In addition to helping students, Shortstop also hosts community functions and fundraisers, whether it is a neighborhood HOA meeting or Westfield High Senior Class fundraiser. Looking ahead to the next ten years, Monica has simple goals. She says, “We plan to evolve with the times and keep up with the wants of our customers. We are still experiencing the effects of the pandemic, and the culinary industry has been trying to evolve with that. I know we’ll make it through and continue to offer our patrons a pleasant evening.”

Fresh fruit and a little more sugar for the final touch

City Lifestyle West Springfield | November 2021

“We plan to evolve with the times and keep up with the wants of our customers.”

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CULINARY CREATIONS

Brow n But ter Old Fash ioned ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY AMANDA BRODKIN

BY USING A PROCESS CALLED FAT WASHING, THE FEDERAL CREATES A SEASONAL VERSION OF THE ORIGINAL WHISKEY COCKTAIL.

brown butter bourbon INGREDIENTS:

+ 750 milliliters bourbon (Elijah Craig Small Batch) + 340 grams unsalted butter INSTRUCTIONS: + Place bourbon in a bowl and set aside for the end of this recipe + Put room temperature butter in saucepan + Over low heat, melt butter until fully liquefied + Increase to medium heat and bring to a boil + Once boiling, reduce heat to low medium and stir; mix constantly with a whisk + Once butter begins to change color to a deep gold, remove from heat + Begin to whisk the mix rapidly, constantly inspecting the color + Once the butter has turned auburn, immediately add it to the bourbon + Transfer the bourbon and butter into a shakeable container, such as the original bottle or a mason jar + Once the butter has begun to solidify, shake a final time and then place in the freezer for a minimum of 4 hours + Once finished chilling, strain through cheesecloth (coffee filters work but are less effective) + Once strained, the product is now finished 26

City Lifestyle West Springfield | November 2021

The cocktail is garnished with orange and served over plenty of ice

A NEW TWIST ON A TRADITIONAL CLASSIC BY THE FEDERAL OF AGAWAM

Sultanas, demerara syrup, and hazelnut bitters

Port-soaked sultana demerara syrup INGREDIENTS: + 200 grams demerara sugar + 100 milliliters water + 75 grams sultanas (for port soaking) + 75 grams sultanas + 35 milliliters port wine INSTRUCTIONS: + Soak 75 grams of sultanas in port wine overnight to hydrate + Place unsoaked 75 grams of sultanas in a small saucepan + Set heat to medium and toast sultanas until fragrant + Add 100 milliliters of water and bring to boil + Reduce heat to low and add 200 grams of demerara sugar + Stir until sugar has completely dissolved + Transfer liquids to a 16 oz mason jar + Strain port-soaked sultanas and add port-soaked sultanas to the mason jar

CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/WestSpringfield

CULINARY CREATIONS (CONTINUED) PORT-SOAKED SULTANA DEMERARA SYRUP INSTRUCTIONS CONTINUED + Set mason jar in a water bath with an immersion circulator set to 140 degrees F + Steep for 8 hours + Strain through a fine mesh sieve + Once strained, product is now finished If you do not own an immersion circulator, you can bring water to a boil in a small saucepan, remove from heat and gently place the mason jar into the boiling water. Do this twice at threehour intervals.

HAZELNUT bitters

INGREDIENTS:

+ 1 navel orange + 10 cloves + 10 black peppercorns + 100 grams hazelnuts + 150 milliliters 190 proof neutral grain spirit INSTRUCTIONS: + Peel orange + Place all ingredients including orange peel into a 16 oz. mason jar + Let sit for 2 weeks, agitating mixture in the morning and at night + After 2 weeks strain mixture + Press the hazelnuts to extract liquid within + Using a dilution calculator, bring the leftover liquid product to 120 proof + Once diluted, the product is finished

In transition

City Lifestyle West Springfield | November 2021

Brown Butter Old Fashioned The Cowboy B-BOF INGREDIENTS:

+ 2 oz Brown Butter Washed Bourbon + .25 oz Port-Soaked Sultana Demerara Syrup

+ 2 dashes hazelnut bitters

The Federal’s Alastair Cowieson developed this recipe exclusively for City Lifestyle West Springfield. CityLifestyle.com/WestSpringfield

INSPIRED BY BEN HIGGINS TALKS COFFEE, HOPE & HUMANITY, AND WHAT IT MEANS TO BE THANKFUL

Living a Purposeful Life

PROBABLY BEST KNOWN FOR BEING LEAD #20 IN THE BACHELOR, THERE IS SO MUCH MORE TO BEN HIGGINS THAN BEING ONE OF AMERICA’S REALITY TV SWEETHEARTS, SUCH AS HIS DEEP PASSION FOR MAKING MOVES TO “MULTIPLY GOOD IN THE WORLD.” PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED 30

Since his time on The Bachelor, Ben has taken the opportunity to use his fame to create not one, but two inspiring podcasts, publish a successful autobiography, while also elevating awareness of his “for-purpose” Generous Coffee brand. We sat down with him (virtually) to reflect on all that he has accomplished in this season of “thankfulness.”

City Lifestyle West Springfield | November 2021

CL: WHAT DOES THE TERM ‘THANKFUL’ OR ‘GRATEFUL’ MEAN TO YOU?

Plus, we believe that people enjoy drinking life-changing coffee that has a story behind it over their regular cup of coffee.

BH: It may sound corny and cliche, but when I think of gratitude, it’s an every day break to look at where my life

CL: WHAT ARE YOUR RECOMMENDATIONS FOR PEOPLE TO GIVE

sits and to be thankful for the friends and family around

BACK IN THEIR COMMUNITY?

me and the things that I am able to be a part of.

BH: I think everybody can figure out what they can do in their local communities by asking the same question: What is it around me that makes me the

CL: TELL US ABOUT WHAT YOU ARE MOST PROUD

angriest? Maybe it’s people without homes, maybe it’s animals or the environ-

OF OR INSPIRED BY?

ment. What emotional pull is it? Go after that.

BH: I just want to be a part of really cool stories that I believe are good and healing. And my filter on whether

Plus, you can do that sitting on your couch drinking a great cup of Generous Coffee.

they are good or not comes from my faith. I just want to be a part of loving others and loving God well.

With over 1.2mm Instagram followers, Ben Higgins is co-founder of @generous_ coffee_, author of #AloneinPlainSight, host of @hopestillwins, and co-host of @

CL: HOW DID GENEROUS COFFEE BEGIN?

almost_famouspodcast.

BH: The idea came in July of 2017 and we launched in January of 2018. When the show [The Bachelor] happened, our fundraising increased 500%, but we also knew that it probably wasn’t going to last. We asked ourselves how we can make this more sustainable, and we came up with the idea that we could start a for-profit business and call ourselves “for-purpose.” We donate 100% of our profits to non-profits.

We believe that people enjoy drinking lifechanging coffee that has a story behind it over their regular cup of coffee.

CityLifestyle.com/WestSpringfield

LIFESTYLE CALENDAR chances to win shopping certificates.

Celebration. The parade begins at

EasternStatesExposition.com

MIKE’S MAZE

Pine Street, West Springfield at 10:00

NOVEMBER

1-7

annual Veterans Day Parade and St. Thomas the Apostle School, 75

Warner Farm, Sunderland, MA

a.m. The route is Kings Highway to

“Imagine” this fall at Mike’s Maze!

Elm Street to Park Avenue, ending on

A tribute to John and Yoko’s song,

the Town Common, where there will

the 2021 corn maze is a celebration of

be a ceremony held at 11:00 a.m.

24-30 BRIGHT NIGHTS AT FOREST PARK

This extraordinary light display brightens up the dark of winter and warms

imagination in all its forms. Mike’s Maze is located at 23 South Main Street in Sunderland, Massachusetts— a short distance from Interstate 91, exit 24. 11 a.m.-5 p.m. MikesMaze.com

11-14

the hearts of all those who visit. There

EQUINE AFFAIRE

from November 24, 2021 - January

are more than 675,000 lights that bring Bright Nights to life. The event runs

Equine Affaire proudly returns to the

2, 2022 at Forest Park, Springfield.

6-20

Eastern States Exposition for North

BrightNights.org

ANNUAL FALL CHRYSANTHEMUM SHOW

educational clinics to exciting com-

America’s premiere equine exposi-

26-30

tion and equestrian gathering. From petitions to the largest equine-related

The Annual Fall Chrysanthemum Show

trade show on the East Coast, there’s

at the Botanic Garden of Smith College

something for everyone at Equine

features an extraordinary display of

Affaire! EquineAffaire.com

ANNUAL FESTIVAL OF TREES

The Festival of Trees, presented by the Boys & Girls Clubs of Springfield, will be open Wednesday - Sunday

blooms. Opening the first Saturday in November, it runs for two weeks including the third weekend. Hours: 10:00 a.m. 4:00 p.m. daily. Extended hours: Fridays 10:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m. Garden.Smith.edu

20-21

from November 26 - December 12,

OLD DEERFIELD HOLIDAY SAMPLER

donated and decorated by area busi-

2021 at the MassMutual Center. Seeing these

whimsical

Christmas

trees,

The 33rd Holiday Craft Fair, held in

nesses and organizations, will put you

the Eastern States Exposition's Better

in the holiday spirit, especially when you

Living Center, will be open from 9:00

have the chance to win one! SBGC.org

WEST SPRINGFIELD VETERANS DAY PARADE

a.m. - 5:00 p.m. on Saturday and 10:00

a.m. - 4:00 p.m. on Sunday. Featuring 240 crafters, designers, and artists,

St. Thomas School

music, FREE family activities, and

Join us on November 11th for our

demonstrations. There will also be

CONTINUED >

The perfect finale to your Thanksgiving dinner!

Order your pies and other desserts for the week of Thanksgiving (we won’t have them before then). Caramel Apple

Dutch Apple

Banana Cream

High Top Apple

Cappuccino Cream Coconut Cream

Freshly baked 32

Blueberry

City Lifestyle West Springfield | November 2021

10” pies

Pumpkin

Chocolate Cream

Order Now for Thanksgiving!

Peach & Raspberry

Lemon Meringue

255 Elm Street West Springfield Call (413) 781-1139 or go to cerratos.com

Brittany Means Business WORKING WITH HOMEBUYERS, SELLERS, AND INVESTORS

YOU’VE TRIED THE REST, NOW TRY THE BEST! BEST CAULIFLOWER PIZZA IN WESTERN MASS

A MULTIMILLION DOLLAR PRODUCER SINCE 2015

BRITTANY THEROUX

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

$2 OFF ANY CAULIFLOWER PIZZA EXPIRES NOVEMBER 30, 2021

413-786-9977 NICKYSPIZZAMA.COM 1000 MAIN STREET IN AGAWAM

GET INSPIRED EAT + DRINK SHOP LOCAL City Lifestyle YOUR DIGITAL DESTINATION FOR LOCAL LIVING

Memberships Start As Low As $19.95 and Include Weights, Cardio Equipment, Group Classes and CrossFit. 470 Shoemaker Lane Agawam, Massachusetts 01001 413-786-6398 | neweraxtremetraining.com CityLifestyle.com/WestSpringfield

Announcing My Move to Feeding Hills and Real Living Realty Professionals' Newest location at 267 S. Westfield Street. Considering Selling? We offer a Luxury Lifestyle Home Listing Program for homes valued over $400,000. Our Social Media programs for home listings are second to none with online retargeting and our traditional marketing conveys the elegance of the properties we represent.

14 BACON & BREWS The Log Cabin

NOVEMBER

LIFESTYLE CALENDAR

Buy tickets now for a bacon and beer-

themed bash at The Log Cabin, 500

Easthampton Road, Holyoke from

noon - 3:00 p.m. Try all kinds of

bacon-inspired bites prepared by The Log Cabin’s chefs. Enjoy a

cash bar and live music from The

James Paul Band & Double Dose Of Dave. Must be 21 or older. Positive ID required. EventBrite.com

19 JOE BONAMASSA Symphony Hall

Blues-Rock

Star

Joe

Bonamassa

will perform live at Symphony Hall

The Summer market was typical and sales were down but the prices are still increasing.

on November 19, 2021 at 8:00 p.m. Bonamassa's career began opening for B.B. King in 1989. He is hailed as one of the greatest guitar players of his generation and is a singer-songwriter with

over 40 albums all under his own label. MGMSpringfield.MGMResorts.com

WHAT TODAY’S BUYERS WANT Tip #1 Relocate Laundry nearest the bedrooms as physically possible Tip #2 If space allows, create a room for stay at home workers/den/yoga area. Tip #3 Create a zen space outdoors and privacy from the closest neighbor.

26 PARADE OF THE BIG BALLOONS Main Street, Springfield, MA

Main Street in downtown Springfield will be filled with people, bands, huge colorful balloon characters, and much more on November 26, 2021 at 11:00 a.m. for the annual Parade of the Big Balloons. The helium-filled balloons will include The Cat In the Hat, the MGM Lion, and the American flag. Santa will also make an appearance! SpiritOfSpringfield.org

Bobbi Jo Girroir, Realtor

Would you like to get in touch with

(413) 519-5636 www.realliving.com/bobbi-jo.girroir

City Lifestyle West Springfield | November 2021

us? We would love to hear from you! WestSpringfield using the Get In Touch link and let us know what you think.

NOVEMBER

Focusing on life insurance, long-term care insurance, disability insurance, investments, and wealth management.

Todd Bajor Licensed Agent

New York Life Insurance Company tnbajor@ft.newyorklife.com 878 Dewey Street West Springfield, MA 01089

413-885-6864

PRINTING • SHIPPING • WAREHOUSING • DISTRIBUTION

IAPCBOOKS.COM

CityLifestyle.com/WestSpringfield

New Fall Styles On Sale Now.

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Located inside the Holyoke Mall