West Springfield, MA February 2022

F E B R UA RY 2 022 | TH E LO C A L LOV E I S S U E

A R T S + C U LTU R E

LO CAL AUTH O RS F O O D + B E V E R AG E

ELEGANT DIN IN G AT BN APO LI ITALIAN

More To Love in West Springfield & Agawam

Valentines Specials HOT CHOCOLATE BOMBS Pack of 4 Valentine’s themed Hot Chocolate Bombs $20 6” HEART SHAPED CAKES - Red Velvet cake layered with chocolate fudge and a cream cheese frosting covered in Red Velvet cake crumbs - Chocolate Mousse layered with Chocolate cake and covered in a smooth chocolate ganache. $35 STRAWBERRY CHAMPAGNE SEMIFREDDO Sponge cake soaked in champagne, fresh strawberries, strawberry mousse, lemon and strawberry glaze on top. $35

AMORE MIO SEMIFREDDO CAKE 6” heart shaped cake with a chocolate cookie base that is layered with rich a chocolate cake, a hazelnut mousse, blood orange gelée, and vanilla bean mascarpone. Encased partially in a white chocolate mirror glaze. $45 MINI CHOCOLATE MOUSSE HEARTS Chocolate cookie crust filled with house-made chocolate mousse and chocolate cake. Covered in chocolate ganache. $4 CHOCOLATE BOXES Assorted chocolate boxes. Comes in gift bag.

6 COUNT $12 | 12 COUNT $22 | 16 COUNT $27 RED VELVET CUPCAKES Red velvet cupcakes filled with fudge, frosted with cream cheese.

CHOCOLATE COVERED STRAWBERRIES

Place your special orders early!

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

Hair of Fame The Salon & Spa

82 Elm Street, West Springfield, MA 01089 (413)733-9444

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.

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LIFESTYLE LETTER

Celebrating Works from the Heart

February 2022 PUBLISHER

Amanda Brodkin | amanda.brodkin@citylifestyle.com EDITOR

Kelly Hawkins | kelly.hawkins@citylifestyle.com

Every creative endeavor begins with the heart. Whether it is preparing a meal, choreographing a dance, directing a play, or writing a book, artistic projects are fueled by passion. Crafting a special gift for someone we love is inherent. Think back to the last time a child in your life presented a drawing they made especially for you. Do you recall the sense of pride in their eyes as they placed their masterpiece in your hands? For some, that enthusiasm for creating and sharing their gifts is a lifelong journey. For others, they have to consciously remind themselves to carve out time to pursue what they love.

Our February issue highlights people within our local communities who love what they do and enrich our lives by sharing their talents. From authors to actors to artists, we are surrounded by neighbors who express a part of themselves when they share their art with us.

During this month of celebrating love, we encourage you to support our local makers and artisans. In addition to chocolates and flowers, why not treat your special someone to an evening at the theater or a special book that will resonate with them?

While you express your affection to the cherished individuals in your life, remember to continue (or possibly reignite) your own passion for the activities that bring you joy. May your days be filled with love, light, health, and projects that spark your individual creativity.

AD DESIGNER

Rachel Chrisman LAYOUT DESIGNER

Kirstan Lanier CONTR IBUTING WR ITER S

Kelly Hawkins, Hailey MacDonald, Jay Miletsky CONTR IBUTING PHOTOGR APHER S

Michael Epaul, Karen Slack

Corporate Team CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Randy Radosevich CHIEF DIGITAL OFFICER Bruce Ianni DIRECTOR OF SOCIAL MEDIA Mindy Hargesheimer ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor

K E L LY H A W K I N S , E D I T O R @WESTSPRINGFIELD_LIFESTYLE

OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson AD MANAGER Chad Jensen WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell

Learn how to start your own publication at: citylifestyle.com//franchise

Scan QR code to visit our Instagram CIT YLIFEST YLE.COM/ WESTSPRINGFIELD |

Proverbs 3:5-6 West Springfield Lifestyle™ 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 West Springfield Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered

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L I F E ST Y LE LE T T E R

to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

F E B R UA RY 2 0 2 2

inside the issue The Local Love Issue

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26

30

16

F E ATU R E D

D E PA RTM E NTS

16 The Authors Among Us

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Lifestyle Letter

8

City Scene

10

Business Monthly

14

Local Experiences

16

Local Limelight

20

Career Advice

24

Money Matters

26

Culinary Creations

30

Back Stage

32

Financial Buzz

34

Events

Agawam and West Springfield writers bring experience to the local literary scene

24 Questions with Kerri Working with a CPA can make life easier

26 Love, Italian Style

bNapoli Italian delivers the heart of Italy in West Springfield

30 A Class Act

At the Majestic Theater, the drama is personal

O N T H E C OV E R

Photography: Michael Epaul Cocktails and dessert at bNapoli Italian in West Springfield

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A RTS + C U LT UR E

A RTS + C U LT U R E FI NA NC E + LEGA L SE RV IC E S FO O D + B E V E R AG E

A RTS + C U LT U R E LI FE + C U LT U R E

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

SERVING WEST SPRINGFIELD AND THE SURROUNDING COMMUNITY SINCE 1952.

John R. Sweeney CIC,CIS R West Sprin gfie ld

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

1233 Westfield St. Ste. 1 West Springfield, MA 01089

264 North Main Street Suite 6 East Longmeadow, MA 01028

Phone: (413)-732-5465 Fax: (413)-732-5450

Phone: (413)-525-6386 Fax: (413)-525-6387

John@jrsins.com

Chris@jrsins.com

JRSINS.COM

F E B R UA RY 2 0 2 2

city scene

Where neighbors can see and be seen in the city.

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AMANDA BRODKIN

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G&B PHOTOGRAPHY

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TYLER SAREMI

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AMANDA BRODKIN

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NANCY BOBSKILL

GRETA D’AMOURS

KRISTIN MAUK BOWE

1: The West Springfield-Agawam Kiwanis Club delivered homemade cookies to the Morgan Road fire station. 2: Sponsored by Agawam Rotary, the annual toy exchange provided hundreds of toys for local children. 3: Agawam High School junior class members enjoyed “A Night to Remember,” their first homecoming dance. 4: Staff from West Springfield and Agawam represented Westfield Bank at the WRCERC Chambers’ holiday party. 5: Staff, friends, and guests celebrated the holidays at Greta’s Beauty Bar’s Shot of Beauty party. 6: West Springfield’s Town Commons building on Elm Street had its grand opening in November. 7: Lisa Pernice Gomes and HomeWatch Caregivers performed at several holiday celebrations in the area.

Want to be seen in the magazine?

Tag your social media photos with @WestSpringfield_Lifestyle

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C I T Y SC E N E

YOGA CLASSES QIGONG INFUSED YOGA REIKI THAI YOGA BODYWORK SOUND MEDITATION WORKSHOPS • TRAININGS

Transform 200 Hour Yoga Teacher Training - Fall 2022 SINGLE DROP INS & CLASS CARDS PACKAGES AVAILABLE

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F E B R UA RY 2 0 2 2

business monthly A round-up of exciting news from local businesses.

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Photography Provided

Dean Moke America Moves to New Location Dean Moke America, your source for Moke vehicles here in the Northeast, has moved to a new location in West Springfield. Since changing locations in November, Dean Moke America is now at 874 Memorial Ave. The new location has more space to stock and display Moke vehicles, along with the extensive pre-owned inventory that Dean is known for. Stop by to check out the Moke collection of street-legal battery-powered vehicles.

Scan to read more.

Photography Dean Moke America

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Visit CityLifestyle.com/WestSpringfield to get in touch.

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B USIN E SS M ON T H LY

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Committed to Excellence

Your home is special.

business monthly A round-up of exciting news from local businesses.

Shouldn’t your agent be?

Bobbi-Jo Girroir

Get Ready for Spring Market Real estate inventory continues to be a challenge for Spring 2022. Position yourself for success as a buyer or seller by working with an experienced Realtor.

Your Home is Special, Shouldn’t Your Realtor Be? • Preview your home, provide staging tips, discuss pros/cons of projects that may be unnecessary updates/changes (which would cost money but not provide a return) • Coordinate a pre-list home inspection so you can “fix before you list,” keep buyers in the know and circumvent problems during negotiations or the appraisal process

Get to Know Bobbi-Jo as your Local Real Estate Expert Using my detailed preparation system focusing on your home’s uniqueness makes the selling process effortless for you and the most rewarding for the return on your investment.

Bobbi-Jo Girroir, Luxury Homes Realtor (413) 519-5636 267 S. Westfield Street, Feeding Hills 12

B USIN E SS M ON T H LY

Photography Bobbi-Jo Girroir

Get to Know Bobbi-Jo Feeding Hills-based Realtor Bobbi-Jo Girroir is pleased to announce her 16th year in the business and in 2021 was the first Realtor in the Pioneer Valley to become a Designated Accredited Luxury Home Specialist. She works diligently to ensure her home sellers get the absolute most for their houses while moving through the process with the least stress possible. "Get to Know Bobbi-Jo as Your Local Real Estate Expert."

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Visit CityLifestyle.com/WestSpringfield to get in touch.

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

$30 MONTHLY GYM MEMBERSHIPS mcutrainingcenter.com | 413-301-6040 | 153 Springfield Street, Agawam MA 01001

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!

Cassin.academy@gmail.com | (413) 531-4382 63 Myron St, West Springfield MA FEB R UARY 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/WE STS P R I N G F I E L D

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F E B R UA RY 2 0 2 2

local experiences Locals recommending the best places and things to do in the city.

There's a reason that "dinner and a movie" is the formula for a classic date night. But sometimes you want to break the routine and participate in something that is unique, meaningful, and memorable. Set the tone for an experience that you'll both cherish by stepping away from the tried and true. These local options are sure to entertain and engage.

Romantic Date Ideas BABE BOUDOIR : Make some memories with couples portraiture to suit your

style. Professional photographer Crystal Miller brings your vision to life.

Valentine's Special, $175 per session. The Mill at Crane Falls, 77 Mill Street, Westfield, Massachusetts 01085 PEDAL N PAR TY: Rent hydro bikes, kayaks, or paddleboards to explore the local waterways this spring and enjoy a meal at The Boathouse when you're done. 1 Alvord Street, South Hadley, Massachusetts 01075 AGAWAM AXE HOUSE: Axe throwing is fun, competitive, and stress-relieving. Get a bunch of friends together for a night like no other! Now offering league axe throwing! 396 Main Street, Agawam, Massachusetts 01001 CR EST R OOM: The Crest Room offers Tuesday Night Trivia and Wednesday Night Karaoke for a fun night out that's both competitive and entertaining.

706 Westfield Street, West Springfield, Massachusetts 01089 TIPSY PAINT BR USH: Explore your creative side with a paint party or pottery workshop. Step-by-step instruction is provided, and you're welcome to bring your own adult beverages. 610 Enfield St Enfield, Connecticut 06082

tipsy paint brush

Scan for more photos and the full list.

Want to recommend a local experience?

Scan the QR code and message us on Instagram.

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LOCA L E X P E R IE N C E S

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the authors

among us

Three Local Authors Share Their Journeys from Ideas to Published Works ARTICLE BY KE LLY HAWKINS | PHOTOG R APHY PROVIDE D

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LOCA L LIM E LIGH T | A RTS + CULTURE

KE LLY H AW KI N S

Books have always played a significant role in my life. I fondly recall my parents reading to me as a child, instilling affection for the written word and inspiring me to become a high school English teacher. While sharing my love of literature with my students and teaching them about other people’s books, like many others, I had the dream of someday writing my own. Fortunately, there are now several avenues aspiring authors can take to become published.

As the challenges that we all faced in 2020 mounted, after twenty-two years, I decided to step away from the classroom and finally had time to pursue my ultimate goal. I discovered a publisher (Lisa Rusczyk of CZKY Publishing) who was hiring writers for one of her series – 50 Things to Know and my first book, 50 Things to Know About Being a High School English Teacher, was released in January of 2021 on Amazon.com.

With the support of family, friends, and former students, my confidence as a writer grew, and my second book, 50 Things to Know About Being Childfree by Choice, was published in May of 2021. Local papers (The Reminder and The Agawam Advertiser) wrote articles about the books, creating additional professional opportunities for me, such as becoming the editor for West Springfield Lifestyle.

As I discovered happiness and success in something other than teaching, I continued to try things that I have always wanted to do. I began narrating audio books on Audible, including my own. This new venture led me to a wonderful collaboration with another local author, Judith Cosby. I was honored when she asked me to be “the voice” of her first two books.

KE LLY H AW KI N S' BOO KS

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J U D ITH COS BY ' S TH R E A DS S E R I E S

Judith had dreamed of being an author since she was a teenager, and years ago, a priest’s sermon inspired the concept for her first book, Threads. She was shocked by how well the book was received. She had planned to write one book and check it off her “Bucket List.” However, two more books followed, Spirit Threads and Weaving Threads of Gratitude.

All three books are “designed to encourage inspiration through positivity.” They contain relatable memoirs that teach life lessons. She encourages readers to remember that when life presents immense hardships “we should try not to be crushed by them but rather empowered by them.”

Judith and her family are no strangers to challenges. Her youngest daughter was diagnosed with a rare disease Immune Thrombocytopenia Purpura (ITP). Spirit Threads shares the journey of how she and her family dealt with the diagnosis, battled the disease, became grateful for the simple moments, and above all, maintained hope.

After conducting extensive research, attending webinars and writers’ retreats, and thoroughly educating herself on her options, Judith decided that the route of self-publishing made the most sense for her to share her stories with readers.

She had control over the timing of their release and could choose her own editor and cover artist.

Judith’s hometown community of Feeding Hills has been extremely supportive of her literary trilogy. She has participated in several book signings at local settings including Casa di Lisa, Fitness First, the Agawam Library, and Coopers – just one of several locations where her books are carried. They can also be found at Re-Inspired in Southwick, and online at BarnesAndNoble.com and Amazon.com. Judith’s much-anticipated fourth book is expected to be released in 2022.

J U D ITH COS BY

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LOCA L LIM E LIGH T | A RTS + CULTURE

LY N DSAY B E L SO N

Another local author has also written about her experience with a rare medical condition; however, she became a writer much earlier in life than Judith and I did. Lyndsay Belson of West Springfield, age 9, was diagnosed with Amplified Musculoskeletal Pain Syndrome (AMPS) in June of 2021. When her parents attempted to research this rare disease, they quickly discovered that there was limited information available.

AMPS is typically diagnosed in children and is similar to the adult diagnosis of fibromyalgia. It is a condition that others cannot physically see, and Lyndsay wanted to share her story but was uncomfortable talking about it. Her mother, Sarah, an elementary school teacher, suggested that she write her experiences down. Lyndsay shared her personal perspective while Sarah took notes. Then, with the young author’s final approval, they completed what became their book, The A.M.P.S. Champ, and when they were finished, Lyndsay exclaimed, “Mommy, that’s about me!” She had her own story, just the way she wanted it. Although the original intent was to only show the project to family members, one of Sarah’s friends encouraged her to utilize Amazon Publishing to share the book to educate readers and provide other families that have received this diagnosis with support and resources.

The entire Belson family contributed to creating the book.

Along with providing her story, Lyndsay also drew the illustrations, and her twin sister, Kylie, assisted in coloring them.

Their father, Adam, took the photographs of the drawings, and in addition to being the note-taker and editor, Sarah was the one who used Amazon Publishing. Although she shares that the process was simple, she humorously admits that “the toughest part was actually figuring out the correct margins.”

Since its publication, the Belsons have received a great deal of support for Lyndsay’s book from the West Springfield community. Sarah shares, “we have a wonderful village of family and friends.” To learn more about Lyndsay’s story, The A.M.P.S. Champ, please visit Amazon.com.

LY N DSAY B E L SO N ’ S BOO K

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T H E PAT H T O PUBLISHING FOR PROFIT ARTICLE BY JAY MILETSKY PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

Self-publishing can take many shapes and forms. Successful author and publisher Jay Miletsky shows you how.

There’s a book inside of all of us. For some, it’s a thrilling spy novel. For others, it’s a children’s picture book, a revealing autobiography, or a cookbook packed with delicious, original recipes.

Whatever your story is, the good news is that when it comes to writing a book, it’s never too late and there are virtually no barriers to entry. All you need is imagination and motivation.

The hard part is what to do after you write your book. What steps do you take? How do you get your book published?

For most authors, the dream of writing includes having your book produced by a large publishing house, and distributed to major retailers. But in reality, this is an incredibly steep mountain to climb that potentially includes years of stinging rejection for very little financial earnings.

The hurdles that come with traditional publishing are why so many new authors opt instead for self-publishing.

Today, self-publishing is often seen as the best option for authors who want to move quicker, make more, and

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CAR E E R A DV IC E | ARTS + CULTURE

maintain ownership of their intellectual property. Being a self-publisher simply means that you are taking the responsibility of publishing your own book. It means that YOU are your own publishing company. No literary agents required, no piles of rejection letters to wade through, and you have the opportunity to make far more with the sale of each book than you could ever hope to make with a traditional publisher at the helm. Of course, that’s not to say that self-publishing is easy. It isn’t. But with a little research and understanding, self-publishing is your best chance for getting your story out and offered to anxious readers, and earning a substantial profit from it.

Jay Miletsky is the author of ten children’s books (so far) and multiple business titles as well. He founded IAPC (Independent Authors Publishing Collective) in 2018 to help authors learn tools for success in self-publishing.

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Questions with Kerri WEST SPRINGFIELD CPA KERRI S. REED ON WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW ABOUT WORKING WITH AN ACCOUNTANT ARTICLE BY AMANDA BRODKIN | PHOTOGRAPHY BY KAREN SLACK

CLWS: DOES EVERYONE NEED AN ACCOUNTANT? KSR: If you’re filing anything more complicated than a basic W2 return, then yes, you should hire an accountant.

If you’re dealing with a business, rental properties, depreciation of assets, you should let a professional prepare your own return. People oftentimes miss deductions or get advice from the wrong sources.

CLWS: WHAT SHOULD PEOPLE KNOW ABOUT WORKING WITH A CPA? KSR: We’re here to help you and we try to do what’s best for you. People don’t need to be intimidated. The old stereotype of the impersonal, hard-edged accountant is not who we are.

CLWS: WHAT SUGGESTIONS FOR GOOD HABITS DO YOU HAVE? KSR: Keep your receipts and forms in one place so that you’re not scrambling at tax time. If it looks important, keep it. We’d rather have too much than not enough. A

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M ON E Y M AT T E R S | FINANCE + LE GAL S E RVI CE S

good bookkeeping system is imperative to the success of a small business.

CLWS: WHAT IS MOST REWARDING ABOUT THIS WORK? KSR: Reducing peoples’ tax liabilities and making their burden easier is the best part of my job, also, helping people get their business organized and reducing the fear of the unknown. Once people are used to working with us, they love it. I like working with small businesses and I enjoy tax planning.

CLSW: WHAT WOULD YOUR CLIENTS BE SURPRISED TO KNOW ABOUT YOU? KSR: I feel for people when they’re in a bad position. It’s important that clients find me approachable. I understand that sometimes tax lingo is a foreign language and I will talk with my clients about the details of their taxes until they “get it” – people appreciate that!

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C ULIN A RY C R E AT ION S | F OOD + BE VE RAGE

Love, Italian Style BNAPOLI ITALIAN DELIVERS DINING WITH HEART

ARTICLE BY AMANDA BRODKIN

Gennaro Moccia, owner of bNapoli Italian

Elegant, classic, and contemporary, bNapoli Italian is the area’s premiere destination for modern Italian cuisine. bNapoli embodies proprietor Gennaro Moccia’s vision of a local fine dining establishment that reflects his own personal take on regional Italian specialties in the Pioneer Valley.

Born near the Amalfi coast of Italy, Jerry brings his heritage to life at bNapoli Italian. “We try to hit various regions of Italian cuisine,” says Jerry. The combination of the atmosphere and cuisine gives bNapoli its elegant feel. “Modern culinary technique is at the heart of our cuisine.” Patrons come to bNapoli for drinks, dinner, and dessert expecting an exceptional experience. And that’s exactly what they get.

“The intimacy of our service and the design of the space give us our elegance,” says Jerry. The professional waitstaff and bar

PHOTOGRAPHY BY MICHAEL EPAUL CONTINUED >

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“Food is a direct connection to the heart,” according to the restauranteur. “I love everything about this work. The thing that excites me the most is to see guests fulfilled and enjoying the full experience of it.”

staff deliver attentive service while serving a regularly changing menu of craft cocktails and cuisine. The food and beverage options are updated several times throughout the year to reflect the currency of the season.

With a double-height open space at the front of the restaurant, warm yet contemporary finishes, and rustic touches, bNapoli presents an environment that is modern in its feel, yet intimate. The food mirrors the ambience; “Our presentation is clean and crisp and goes with the space,” says Jerry. The triple chocolate mousse cake is a prime example of the synergy between space and substance; presented in a format that could almost be considered tailored in its appearance, the restaurant’s most popular dessert is a study in balance, elegance, and modern form. And its taste does not disappoint.

The environment lends itself to special evenings. bNapoli has seen its share of romantic moments. “We’ve had at least ten engagements occur in this space,” says

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Jerry, with two couples getting engaged there in recent weeks. “Food is a direct connection to the heart,” according to the restauranteur. “I love everything about this work. The thing that excites me the most is to see guests fulfilled and enjoying the full experience of it.”

Reviews and feedback from guests have been consistently excellent. “We have received a 4.9 on Open Table for five years straight,” says Jerry. bNapoli’s menu includes their signature appetizer of Grilled Cyprus Octopus, entrees such as authentic Veal Bolognese and Salt-Brick Chicken with Polenta. In addition to the Triple Cioccolato di Mousse, the dessert offerings include Budino di Caffe (coffee pudding with a house-made salted caramel and hazelnut brittle) and Lemon Curd Brulee. Everything is made on premises. Reservations are recommended, and be sure to bring your appetite.

Located at 185 Elm Street in West Springfield, bNapoli Italian is open Tuesday through Saturday for dinner.

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A set model from Betty & the Patch

A Class Act West Springfield’s Majestic Theater Celebrates 24th Season

ARTICLE BY HAILEY MACDONALD PHOTOGRAPHY BY MAJESTIC THEATER/RICK TELLER

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B ACK STAGE | ARTS + CULTURE

The Majestic Theater, located at 131 Elm Street, has been providing live entertainment to West Springfield and the surrounding areas since the 1990s. This year marked the theater’s 24th season of success and service to the community.

The theater opened its doors in 1997 with the help of director, actor, and playwright, Danny Eaton, alongside his troupe, The Theater Project. Their ensemble, originally established in 1993, founded the Theater Project, Inc., the nonprofit organization that runs the Majestic Theater. The troupe used to practice and perform in the Big E fairgrounds before moving to the Elm Street location, which had been a movie theater since 1922. It was most recently called Elm Cinema.

Back in the 1990s, Eaton knew West Springfield was the perfect place to open up a live theater. He believed it would provide convenient travel for audience members due to the city’s central location to a handful of different highways. It also provided a great opportunity for actors in the area, as it is close to many cities and towns throughout Massachusetts and Connecticut.

The Majestic Theater has a notable presence in the community. In addition to their ability to display the distinguishable talent of local actors to theater lovers in the area, they also frequently donate show tickets to events around town, such as golf tournaments and raffles.

Another way the theater provides enrichment to the community is through an annual large-scale raffle. The Theater Project, Inc. held their 26th annual Classic Raffle in December. Participants purchased $10 tickets to be entered into the drawing for a 1959 Corvette, which has a value of $65,000 and a little over 90,000 miles, as the first prize. The second place winner received a 2003 Harley Davidson motorcycle. All of the proceeds from the raffle go toward the future productions of the Majestic Theater.

The COVID-19 pandemic posed many challenges for the theater, but they are bouncing back. They had to close their doors for 17 months, reopening just six months ago in August. Now, all audience members must be fully vaccinated to enter the building and wear a mask during the performance. Actors are tested frequently as well, and they check in with COVID compliance officers regularly.

The Majestic Theater’s presence in West Springfield is extremely special, and it adds great value to the lives of those who call the community home. This month, Blithe Spirit will be opening on February 24. The box office is open to purchase tickets between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. Monday-Friday and on Saturday between 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. 413.747.7797

DANNY EATON

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creative planning for your future ARTICLE BY ALLISON SWAN | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES

Scan the code to see the full article at CityLifestyle.com

Creative Planning believes there’s a richer way to wealth. Their team of CFP professionals, CPAs and attorneys work together to create clear customized plans to maximize your wealth, all in one place. Their award-winning in-house services span a variety of financial d isciplines, i ncluding c omprehensive wealth and investment management, insurance, tax prep, trusts, estate, financial and retirement planning. Founded in Overland Park, they have since branched out across the globe, gaining a national reputation that has earned them numerous prestigious awards, including #1 wealth management firm i n America by Barron’s, CNBC and Forbes.

President and CEO Peter Mallouk shares his wealth of knowledge with approachable financial advice. Two issues coming together at once inspired the creation of Mallouk’s business.

“My dad was a physician frustrated with his financial advisor who sold him products and didn’t really explain things well, and I was an estate attorney that saw a full view of the advisory world and thought there was a better way to deliver the all around experience. Ultimately, that led to Creative Planning offering investments and planning as well as legal and tax advice in a very approachable, consultative way.”

Mallouk has written several books, including 5 Mistakes Every Investor Makes and How to Avoid Them, and has cowritten Unshakeable: Your Financial Freedom Playbook and The Path: Accelerating Your Journey to Financial Freedom with Tony Robbins.

When looking for a financial advisor, find the right one by asking the right questions.

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“Most don’t realize that the vast majority of financial advisors don’t have to act in the client’s best interests. A minority of financial advisors are fiduciaries and operate under laws that share similarities with doctors and lawyers, meaning they do have to act in their client’s best interests. First, ask your advisor if they are registered as a broker or are dually registered. If they say yes to either, that means that part or all of the time, they don’t have to act in your best interests.

There are thousands of advisors that will act in your best interest, so take the time to find one. Second, ask your advisor if their parent company, or the ownership of their parent company, own investment vehicles. If the answer is yes, don’t be surprised if some of those investment vehicles find their way into your portfolio. Essentially you may find yourself paying an advisor to then put you in a fund where the company collects another fee. There is no need to accept this conflict. Find a fiduciary that is not dually registered and that does not own their own investment products. At that point, you at least have someone that is incented to act on your behalf all the time. From there, look for education, credentials and experience with people like you.”

As for the future, it’s never looked brighter at Creative Planning.

“It’s an exciting time—we can do more for our clients today than at any point in our history. In many ways, it feels like we are just at the starting line.”

For more information, visit CreativePlanning.com.

WANTED

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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

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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.

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events A curated selection of the most intriguing upcoming events in the city.

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Appaluse Series Event - VOCE Quartet

LIVESTREAM | 7:00 PM VOCE is a New England-based a cappella and barbershop quartet with more than 75 years of singing experience among the four members. Formed in 2014, VOCE has competed internationally, placing sixth in the world in 2019. They sing a wide variety of music and truly enjoy performing for an audience. Livestream on Agawam/Westfield/Southwick Cable Access Channel 15. 413.789.4814

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19th Century Ice Harvest

NOBLE & COOLEY CEN TER, G RA NV I L L E , MA | 1 2:0 0 P M The Noble & Cooley Center for Historic Preservation (NCCHP) will re-create a small scale ice cutting on the pond at 42 Water Street, off of Route 189, in Granville, Massachusetts. During the ice harvest, the museum will be open for guided tours that focus on “Yankee Ingenuity” from the 1850s to current day. FREE WILL DONATIONS NCCHP.org 413.367.6321

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ALMOST, MAINE

SUFFIELD, CT The Suffield Players (1305 Mapleton Avenue, Suffield, CT) will be performing Almost, Maine by John Cariani from Feb. 10 - Feb. 26. It is a romantic comedy, recommended for ages 13+. For more information, please visit SuffieldPlayers.org or call 1.800.289.6148

The Harlem Globetrotters

MAS S MUTUAL CEN TER | 7:00 P M The Harlem Globetrotters Spread Game Tour is a basketball event like no other. Part street-ball from the players who defined it, part interactive family entertainment, the new tour will show off the best of the Globetrotters in a dazzling exhibition of talent and game. Mass Mutual Center: 1277 Main Street, Springfield, MA 413.787.6600

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Springfield RV, Camping, and Outdoor Show

E ASTERN STATES EXPOS ITION Come visit the 60th Annual Springfield RV, Camping, and Outdoor Show on the grounds of the Eastern States Exposition. Among some 200 exhibitors signed up for this show are more than two dozen RV dealers, nearly 70 campgrounds, and almost 100 vendors offering specialty camping and outdoor products. For hours of operation and admission prices, visit SpringfieldRVCampingShow.com or call 413.737.2443

Annual Winter Carnival

MITTIN EAG UE PAR K, WEST S P R I NG F I E L D, MA | 1 2:0 0 P M Bundle up the family and come out for a free, fun time of winter events including ice sculpture, arts and crafts, a bonfire and a cookout at the UNICO Building. Mittineague Park, 1695 Westfield St. West Springfield, MA. WSParkAndRec.com/Special-Events

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EVE N TS

Always at Your Service...For Over 40 Years!

We are a full service HVAC contractor providing repair, maintenance, and installation for all types of heating and air conditioning systems. We have been servicing Hampden and Hampshire counties since 1971. We look forward to exceeding your expectations!

Trust Us, Your Neighbor Just Did! 413-239-5550 • 8 Capital Dr., West Springfield, MA 01089 License# 4162 License# 16691

Brittany Means Business WORKING WITH HOMEBUYERS, SELLERS, AND INVESTORS

A MULTIMILLION DOLLAR PRODUCER SINCE 2015

BRITTANY THEROUX

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

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New Beginnings New Memories New Year

Holyoke Mall 413.536.7353 hannoush.com