West Springfield, MA April 2023

Explore Spring!

AU TO + M A R I N E

BERTERA SU BARU CELEBRATES 50 YE ARS HOME + DESIGN

HO M E CO LO R TREN DS YARD EQU IPM ENT GETS A SPRI NG BO OST

A P R I L 2 02 3

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Casa di Lisa

Tues-Thurs: 4 – 8 pm • Fri-Sat: 4 – 9:30 pm Sun & Mon: Closed

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April 2023 PUBLISHER

Amanda Waterfield | amanda.waterfield@citylifestyle.com MANAGING EDITOR

Sara Anderson | sara.anderson@citylifestyle.com

LIFESTYLE LETTER

Exploration for Every Day Our theme for April is exploration, and although the concept of exploration often brings to mind travel, the word means so much more to me.

When I think of exploration, I think of learning, adventure, and revealing the unknown. Whether we are exploring our personal growth through practices like meditation and yoga, or giving our home a new look through paint and décor choices, exploration offers a chance to shake things up.

The April issue of West Springfield Lifestyle offers you a few ways to investigate your world. For starters, what better way to explore than to hit the road with a great playlist, an innovative route, and a vehicle that you love? Check out the article on Bertera Subaru’s 50th anniversary for a look at the brand’s history in our area and some road trip suggestions. If you’re looking to do some exploring without leaving home, consider giving your living space a refresh by discovering the latest color trends in interior paint.

Chris and Jessica Caruso of Caruso Painting give us their take on what a new coat can do for your living spaces.

Exploration can be a bit like stepping into a new reality. Do you remember the first time you left the safety of your home and family? Maybe you were sleeping over at a friend’s house for the first time, or you were off to college to live without the supervision of your parents. Suddenly, the rules were different. There was no routine in place. Everything was new. Wouldn’t you love to recapture that sense of boundless possibility? We hope this issue inspires you to try out new restaurants, unfamiliar routes, and fresh styles.

Make it a great Spring!

CONTR IBUTING WR ITER S

Sara Anderson, Tina Lesniak, Amanda Waterfield CONTR IBUTING PHOTOGR APHER S

j81 Studios LLC, Ron Lemelin Photography, Karen Slack Photography

Corporate Team CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore DIRECTOR OF SOCIAL MEDIA Mindy Hargesheimer ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell AD DESIGNER Hunter Richie LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsi Southard

A M A N DA WAT E R F I E L D, P U B L I S H E R @WESTSPRINGFIELD_LIFESTYLE

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.

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APRIL 2023

inside the issue The Explore Issue

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34

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F E ATU R E D

D E PA RTM E NTS

14 Caruso Painting Talks Color

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Lifestyle Letter

8

City Scene

10

Business Monthly

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Decor Trends HO ME + DES I GN

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Outdoor Living HO ME + DESIG N

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Driver’s Notebook AU TO + M A R IN E

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Outdoor Adventure T R AV EL

32

Events

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Road Trip T R AV EL

Exploring your personal palette for interior and exterior painting

18 Sprucing Up for Spring

Beautify your yard with tools from Taplin Yard, Pump and Power

22 Bertera Subaru Celebrates Fifty Years

Perfect for New England, the Subaru AWD brand has seen many changes through the years

34 Explore Local Travel Through Our April Book Picks

Travel plan guidance for road trips, camping, hikes, scenic byways, big city fun, and more

O N T H E C OV E R

Photography: Adam Wright A red-bellied woodpecker greets Spring at West Springfield's Mittineague Park.

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TABLES | BEDDING | CASEGOODS | FLORAL | CHAIRS • •

Twin Meadow Home

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Private Personal Training Just you and your trainer in your own workout space.

Ask about our Small Group Training personaltrainerwestspringfield.com | (413) 330-3597 1346 Elm Street, West Springfield AP R I L 2 0 2 3 | 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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APRIL 2023

city scene

Where neighbors can see and be seen.

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AMANDA WATERFIELD

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WEST SPRINGFIELD ROTARY

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AMANDA WATERFIELD

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AMANDA WATERFIELD

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AMANDA WATERFIELD

HG PROPERTY MANAGEMENT

1: Local photographer Branden Bruso opened his photo exhibit at the West Springfield Public Library. 2: Rita D'Angelo, Katy Shea, and Clara Pio celebrate Galentine's Day at Feeding Hill's Soul Shine. 3: Grace Barone, Paul Bertune, and Mary-Anne Schelb enjoy networking at an ERC5 event. 4: Brass Attack performed for an energized crowd at Shortstop Bar & Grill. 5: Sasha Rodriguez and Eric Galarza, along with their families, celebrated their Puerto Rico wedding. 6: West Springfield Rotarians gathered for a progressive dinner at multiple homes in town.

7: Mayor Sapelli (Agawam) and Mayor Reichelt (West Springfield) donated to the Agawam Parish Cupboard pantry.

Want to be seen in the magazine?

Tag your Instagram photos with @westspringfield_lifestyle

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C I T Y SC E N E

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

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APRIL 2023

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

Trailhead Financial Offers IRA Planning You can still contribute to a Traditional or Roth IRA if you haven’t filed your taxes for 2022 yet. Contributing to a Traditional IRA can help to lower your taxable income by up to $7,000!

The advisors of Trailhead Financial (413.372.5991) can help you explore your eligibility and make a contribution if appropriate. Securities and advisory services offered through Commonwealth Financial Network, Member FINRA/SIPC, a Registered Investment Adviser.

Photography by Karen Slack

Scan to read more.

Neurologic Optimal Wellness Physical Therapy Opens Agawam Office Dr. Katrina Banks of Neurologic Optimal Wellness Physical Therapy recently opened her Agawam office at 67 Hunt Street. A clinician for more than 13 years, Dr. Banks' practice offers neurologic rehabilitation including Parkinson’s wellness recovery; anodyne therapy, a drugfree and injection-free neuropathic pain relief treatment; low laser light therapy for back pain from diseases such as arthritis or fibromyalgia; and treatment for stroke, MS, traumatic brain injury, spinal injury, brain tumor, Bell's Palsy, and more.

Photography by Neurologic Optimal Wellness

Scan to read more.

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B USIN E SS M ON T H LY

A to Z Moving and Storage Moves to New Location A to Z Moving and Storage, in business since 1985, has moved to its new location at 41 Chapin Street, West Springfield. The company offers local and long-distance residential, office, and specialized packing and moving services, packing supplies, and long- and short-term warehouse storage. Free quotes are available, along with comprehensive tips for packing and moving. The company also holds online storage facility lot auctions. A to Z Moving and Storage is fully licensed.

Photography by A to Z Moving and Storage

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Newly Opened SunRun Solar Offers Many Solar Options

Western Mass Gymnastics Booking Parties, Starting Summer Camp Signups

Stay Golden Accepting Bookings for Wedding and Prom Tanning

SunRun Solar of Chicopee has extensive solutions for solar power, including leasing, loans, and purchasing options for clean energy and reduced power costs for your home. In addition to solar panels, SunRun offers home electric vehicle solar-powered charging with the Ford Charge Station Pro and Tesla wall power options, as well as the solar backup battery Bright Box so that you're never left in the dark during outages.

SunRun Solar is located at 150 Padgette Street A, Chicopee.

Western Mass Gymnastics at 103 Gold Street, Agawam, is currently accepting bookings for birthday parties, and starting summer camp registration on May 1. In addition to gymnastics classes and teams, the business offers a multitude of fun activities for youth, including school-year movie nights, open gym, half- and full-day summer camp with gymnastics, games, outdoor activities, arts and crafts, movies, and more. All programming is fun, safe, and developmentally sound; a snack/ beverage shop is onsite.

Stay Golden's airbrush tanning salon at 37 Harkness Avenue, East Longmeadow, is currently taking reservations for prom and wedding tanning appointments. The salon offers a variety of packages for individual appointments, as well as private group spray tan parties in their fun and cozy atmosphere--guests can bring beverages and snacks; utensils/plates/cups/napkins are provided. Stay Golden recommends booking appointments at six and four weeks and then several days before your special day. Book online at sgtans.com

Photography by SunRun Solar

Photography by Western Mass Gymnastics

Photography by Stay Golden

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Get in touch by heading over to our landing page to connect: CityLifestyle.com/WestSpringfield

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Common Capital offers small business loans of any size up to $300,000 in Berkshire, Franklin, Hampshire and Hampden counties.

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Epiphany Glam Studio “I love the fact that they have a lot of resources and that you are not left alone. You’re not out there just trying to figure it out by yourself, they have someone to help you in any category that you need help in.”

Owner Mayrena Guerrero

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tranquil environment for our patient-centered approach to care, promoting healing, recovery, and comfort.

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St. Anne County Club Public Golf Course Venue Public Golf Course • Wedding Venue for Golfers Beautiful viewsWedding • Awards Program Find out more at www.STANNECC.com

781 Shoemaker Lane, Feeding Hills, MA 413.786.2088 Public Golf Course • Wedding Venue Public Golf Course • Wedding Venue Beautiful views • Awards Program for Golfers Beautiful views • Awards Program for Golfers Find out more at www.STANNECC.com

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CARUSO PAINTING TA L K S C O L O R ARTICLE BY SARA ANDERSON

Exploring your personal palette for interior and exterior painting

When you need painting services, Caruso Painting, LLC of West Springfield offers a personalized, professional painting experience. Husband and wife Chris and Jessica Caruso started the business in August 2021, offering interior and exterior painting services for both residential and commercial properties.

What sets Caruso Painting apart is their customer service. Chris says, “We offer free, in-person quotes, and determine the scope of work and anticipated timing of the project. We show examples of colors and spaces from our projects, helping clients choose colors if they need guidance. We also provide ideas on window treatments and textiles to make a space a real room, not an empty space with painted walls.”

Jessica adds, “Sometimes clients have decorative elements in a room that inspire them, but are unsure how to tie it all in.

We help pull it all together with paint color selections.”

The couple's mid-century modern style home in West Springfield, painted and decorated in their distinctive and thoughtful style, was featured in the most recent West Springfield Boys and Girls Club Holiday Tour of Homes fundraiser. They enjoy interior design and decorating, and hope to expand the business with consultation in these areas. Chris explains, “We’re really good at understanding

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D E C OR T R E N D S | HOM E + DE S I GN

what clients are looking for, not just emphasizing our own personal style.”

Neutral paint colors are definitely having their moment.

“It’s like picking that one, classic suit for your wardrobe,” Jessica explains­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­. “You have the foundation, and you can add or change color by switching up your accessories.”

Neutral tones are a great way to allow you to add splashes of color to your furniture, curtains, throw pillows, rugs, wall art, and accessories.

If you later decide to purchase a new living room couch or rug in a more vivid color, you won’t have to worry about it clashing with your neutral walls. Plus, you can switch up the color scheme with a décor change, such as a new bedding set, and still have it all pull together perfectly with your neutral wall color.

Neutral tones include gray, beige, greige (a currently hot combination of gray and beige), white, cream, brown, and black. Despite what might sound like a limited palette, neutrals comprise a wide range of warm and cool tones, in an extensive variety of light and dark shades, with everything in between. Neutral paint colors also make good sense for resale value, letting prospective buyers imagine the space as their own with a “blank canvas” of walls in colors that aren’t overly unusual.

JESSICA AND CHRIS CARUSO P H OTO BY K A R E N S L AC K P H OTO G R A P H Y

Choosing That Special Color for Kitchen, Bath, Bedroom, and Living Room While neutrals are popular, adding bolder colors to certain rooms is a way to enjoy unique hues. “When we’re incorporating colors, greens and blues are always popular,” says Chris. Jessica notes, “We recently did a living room in a gray with purple undertones, which was very calming.”

Right now, greens ranging from soft sage to deep and forest-like are trendy in kitchens—Sherwin William’s Courtyard is a rich, darker green perfect for kitchens. For bathrooms, calming shades of blue are always a tranquil and harmonious choice, such as Behr’s Peaceful Blue.

Warm, red-hued tones—from soft blush to bold and deep—are enjoying popularity as a bedroom color. Benjamin Moore’s pick for 2023 color of the year, Raspberry Blush, is a vibrant red-orange, but softer, earth-tone shades of pink and clay are also a great bedroom selection. Navy blues are a trend in living rooms, creating a backdrop for dramatic contrasts or soothing harmony, with Benjamin Moore’s Hale Navy a very popular choice.

Caruso Painting can be reached at 413.244.9003 or carusopainting@yahoo.com.

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(413) 327-7033 www.attorneygarveylaw.com 11 Herbert P Almgren Dr Agawam, Massachusetts 01001

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Protect your Love

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Licensed Agent New York Life Insurance Company tnbajor@ft.newyorklife.com

413-885-6864

Granny’s PLACE

Your local spot for vegetables, plants, homemade ice cream, and more! We’ve got homemade apple butter and applesauce, and don’t miss out on our pies.

WE’RE ACCEPTING 2023 CSA SIGNUPS NOW! ’T DON AND FRESH S MIS IDER E LE C APP S ON TH T U !

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Taplin offers local delivery and a wide range of products as well as equipment servicing

Sprucing Up For Spring

Beautify your yard with the right tools from Taplin Yard, Pump and Power

After winter, homeowners are eager to get their yards in shape for spring. The staff at Taplin Yard, Pump and Power in Agawam makes that job easier, matching customers with equipment that best fits their needs. “Our product knowledge is second to none,” says Wade Rivest, Taplin’s marketing director. “We have very experienced staff.”

Taplin offers local delivery and a wide range of products including push mowers, lawn tractors, zero-turn mowers, pressure washers, and generators. Taplin also sells an extensive selection of commercial products for landscaping companies.

Entrepreneurs starting their own landscaping businesses need look no further than the Taplin showroom!

The company, established in 1892, was bought by the Jagodowski family in 2006. Marty and Deb Jagodowski are the current owners and son Matt is the general manager. Taplin's offerings include premium brands Stihl, Cub Cadet, Ariens, DeWalt, Billy Goat, ECHO, eXmark, Ferris, and Gravely. They also sell and service water pumps and conditioners. Various factory promotions, discounts, and rebates are available for military, first responders, NALP members, landscapers, and equine owners.

Taplin offers seasonal maintenance of homeowners’ yard machines­­ —even those that were purchased elsewhere. “Homeowners should really focus on the upkeep of their machines,” explains Wade. “A big mistake is thinking that residential machinery is maintenance-free, which it is not.”

Taplin Yard, Pump and Power is located at 197 Main Street, Agawam, and is open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday, and Saturdays in spring. For more information, call 413.781.4352 or visit taplinyardpumpandpower.com.

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O UT D OOR LIV IN G | HOME + DE S I GN

Stihl Zero-turn mower

The Stihl zero-turn mower is a new entry to the lawnmower world. Stihl mowers are just hitting the market and Taplin is the only store locally to sell them. Greaseable mower deck spindles and hardened blades increase the performance and durability of the mower.

Constructed with heavy-grade steel self-leveling decks, multiple engine options, and both residential and commercial models, Stihl is a hard choice to beat in the mower game.

ARTICLE BY TINA LESNIAK PHOTOGRAPHY BY J81 STUDIOS LLC

ECHO hedge trimmer

Ariens snowblower

Stihl chainsaw

The ECHO line of hedge trimmers offers tried-and-true yard-care equipment. ECHO has a long history of success with trimmers. The ECHO hedge trimmer is one of the most reliable and easily maintained pieces of equipment homeowners can have in their yardwork arsenal. ECHO has both gas- and electric-powered models available at affordable prices, as well as a range of trimmer sizes and shaft lengths.

Spring is a good time to think about a new snowblower before the fall rush. Ariens snowblowers can tackle any size storm, for any size property.

Taplin carries 18-inch up to 36-inch models, track models for steep driveways, and the Platinum or Pro series for wider driveways, all in stock at the store. Ariens is considered the king of snow blowers. Wade describes the machines as well-built with all-steel construction, which makes them incredibly durable.

The Stihl chainsaw is just one of Taplin’s many chainsaw options.

The Stihl brand is recognized as the toughest brand of chainsaws on the market, with the most options.

Having a reliable saw is crucial to any home with trees that require maintenance. Gas- and electric-powered, large or small bar, all types of models are available at Taplin. Many of the Stihl saws also offer anti-vibration technology. Taplin carries accessories and safety equipment for their line of chainsaws as well.

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The Bertera team poses with a 2023 Solterra at the dealership's original location at 657 Riverdale Street

BERTERA SUBARU CELEBRATES FIFTY YEARS PERFECT FOR NEW ENGLAND, THE SUBARU AWD BRAND HAS SEEN MANY CHANGES THROUGH THE YEARS

When the road beckons, the Subaru family of vehicles has options for almost any road trip imaginable. The Subaru line of all-wheel drive automobiles has been available in our area since 1973. This year marks Bertera Subaru’s fiftieth year in business.

The Subaru brand has grown in popularity over the years, according to Bertera Auto Group president Michael Bertera. The dealer group brought Subarus to West Springfield in response to the gas crisis of the early 1970s. Mike’s father, Aldo Bertera, and his uncle, Robert Bertera, saw Subaru as a potential solution to the problems created by the gas crisis. “They took a chance in 1973,” says Mike. “They applied to become a dealer and were accepted.”

ARTICLE BY AMANDA WATERFIELD PHOTOGRAPHY BY RON LEMELIN PHOTOGRAPHY

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D R IV E R’S N OT E BOOK | AUTO + MARI NE

At the time, the business that later became Bertera Auto Group was known as Hilltop Motors, which was a Texaco station and used car dealership located at what is now the Dunkin’ on Westfield Street. The Subaru dealership went by the name Superior Subaru.

“Smaller imports did well because they were better on gas,” says Mike, adding that Subaru is particularly fitting for New England roads because the entire vehicle line is allwheel drive. Subarus were originally available as either a front-wheel or four-wheel drive vehicle, but went to full AWD-only many years ago.

“All-wheel drive was a big deal back then,” notes Mike. “That’s always been what Subarus have been known for.” The brand’s longevity, reliability, and good gas mileage have made Subaru a perennial favorite with New England drivers.

Bertera has seen some major changes since the original Superior Subaru opened its doors.

The dealership moved to Riverdale Street in 1980. The brand’s popularity really took off nationally around 2008, when Subaru’s marketing division established the Love Promise campaign, which has raised and donated money every year to charitable organizations.

After all these years, Love Promise is still going strong. Through its Share the Love program, Subaru has donated more than $250 million to charities like the ASPCA, MakeA-Wish, Meals on Wheels, and the National Park Foundation. Here in West Springfield, Bertera supports local charitable groups through the West Springfield Rotary, where Mike Bertera is an active member who has served in various leadership roles.

CONTINUED >

The all-electric Solterra SUV for 2023

The Ascent SUV is ready to explore AP R I L 2 0 2 3 | 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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Subaru's family of SUVs

Just in time for its 50th anniversary, Bertera Subaru is constructing a new facility to house its sales and service departments. Located just south of its current location at 657 Riverdale Street, the new home for Bertera Subaru will open its doors in late spring this year. The timing coordinates nicely with the introduction of three major model overhauls: the Outback, Forester, and Impreza vehicles are all getting significant updates for the 2024 model year.

From the compact Impreza to the seven-passenger Ascent SUV, Subaru has a model for every need. Subaru now offers the Solterra, the brand’s first all-electric vehicle. The Solterra is a zero-emissions automobile that requires no gas and no oil changes, making its debut in the West Springfield dealership this January.

Visit berterasubaru.com or call its sales number at 413.344.2731 to learn more.

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D R IV E R’S N OT E BOOK | AUTO + MARI NE

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A MULTIMILLION DOLLAR PRODUCER SINCE 2015

BRITTANY THEROUX

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

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N O W L O C A T E D A T T H E H O LY O K E M A L L Fun fresh fashion | On-trend st yles Tops | Jeans | Dresses | Foot wear | Accessories 5 0 H o l y o ke S t . , H o ly o ke M as s a c h u s et t s www.merakiboutiquema.com

Find us on B @Meraki Boutique or V @ merakiboutique.ma

The region’s best selection of Mitsubishi vehicles.

Specializing in: Sewing machine sales and service Sewing and quilting classes and custom embroidery!

We carry Husqvarna Viking and Brother machines and accessories, as well as, Floriani threads and stabilizers (413) 301 - 9656 Mon-Fri 10am-5pm Sat 10am-3pm Address 2005 Riverdale St. West Springfield, MA 01089 sewingwithparsons@yahoo.com https://sewingwithparsons.com/

10 YEAR, 100,000 MILE WARRANTY

Phone: Hours:

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526 Riverdale Street West Springfield, MA

(413) 781-9047 berteramitsubishi.com

CARUSO PAINTING RESIDENTIAL PAINTING SERVICES

413.244.9003 • West Springfield, MA

carusopainting@yahoo.com

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

RONDA G. PARISH, PC

Trust s an d E st ate Plan n i n g | El d e r L aw | Pro b ate G u ard iansh i p s an d C o ns e r vato r sh i p s | Bus i ne s s L aw Tax at i o n | R e s i d e nt ial an d C o mme rc ial R e a l E state Qu al i f i e d R e t i re me nt Plans an d I R A s

Recognized for over 30 years in Best Lawyers in America

413-301-0850

1350 MAIN STREET, SUITE 1003 SPRINGFIELD MA 01103

ronda.parish@rgparishlaw.com

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Sleep Inside, Outside

Photography by Amangiri, USA

Photography by Amangiri, USA

3 Incredible places to (literally) sleep under the stars It’s always magical to spend a night sleeping under the stars. In decades past, adventure seekers have packed the SUV or camper with tents and gear for ‘roughin’ it’ in the great outdoors. But the swanky and exploding category of luxury outdoor hotel is something to investigate for an unforgettable, next-level experience.

For those who prefer glamping rather than pitching their own tent fireside, here are a few options that incorporate sweeping views and a unique opportunity for travelers to be more authentically embedded in the landscape of the place they’re visiting. These resorts have bucket list-worthy rooms that capture the best of both the luxury resort experience and the outdoors.

Whether you crave the dry heat of the remote Utah desert or the luminous beauty of the Northern Lights, we’ve curated a short list of some places you *must* check out.

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O UT D OOR A DV E N T U R E | TRAVE L

Amangiri, Utah In southern Utah, Amangiri is a five star resort perfect for an adventurous weekend in the desert. However, it is the simple rooms built to emphasize the beauty of Canyon Point that truly make it an incredible place to stay. Each suite has an outdoor lounge and fireplace with private pools or rooftop terraces available too. Don’t miss a dip in the ‘gram-worthy pool, which wraps around the landscape’s curved dunes and arid plateaus.

Hacienda Na Xamena, Ibiza The Spanish island Ibiza boasts lush pine forests, hidden calas (cove beaches) and Hacienda Na Xamena, a resort suspended on a cliff 600 feet above the Mediterranean.

Guests flock to its spa for the eight saltwater thalassotherapy (seawater as a form of therapy) lagoons, which are linked together with waterfalls. Swim to the edge of the pool and drink in the sweeping sea vistas.

Photography Hacienda Na Xamena, Ibiza ©

Photography by Pacuare Lodge

Pacuare Lodge, Costa Rica This jungle hideaway is so out there, you have to whitewater raft down a river or ride a gondola to get there. A network of hanging bridges connect the villas, which have thatched roofs, plantation teak wood floors, rattan furniture and private plunge pools. In the evening, zip 400 feet down a cable for a meal at the Nest, a platform at the top of a ceiba tree, then take a night-time stroll along romantic pathways lit by candles and lanterns.

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SETTING THE STANDARD FOR CUSTOM FABRICATION IN STONE SINCE 1990 L O C A L | FA M I L Y | Q U A L I T Y | S E R V I C E

Stone is better in Black & White!

C A L L T O M A K E A N A PPOI N T M E N T T ODAY

413.786.7073 | SANTOCDESPIRT.COM 2 South Bridge Drive Agawam, Massachusetts 01001

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APRIL 2023

events A curated selection of the most intriguing upcoming events in our area.

A P RIL 1 ST

Connecticut Trolley Museum Easter Eggspress

58 N ORTH ROAD EAST WIN DS O R , C T | 1 0 :0 0 A M On weekends April 1 through 8, take a trolley ride operated by period-dressed motormen and learn about each car. Inside the Visitor Center, explore more trolley cars and artifacts, watch a children's Easter movie, and visit the gift shop for souvenirs. On the same grounds is the Connecticut Fire Museum, complete with antique fire trucks and apparatus. 860.627.6540 or ct-trolley.org/events.

A P RIL 1 ST

Third Annual Papillon Tattoo Convention

E ASTERN STATES EXPOS ITION, 1 30 5 ME MO R I A L AV E NUE WE ST S P R I NG F I E L D, MA | 9 :00 A M On Saturday, 9am - 11pm and Sunday, 9 a.m. - 8 p.m., Papillon's all-ages-friendly tattoo art expo features tattoo artists visiting from all over the world. Join for an assortment of live music, kids' entertainment, food and beverage court, contests, on-site tattoo artistry, vendors, and more. Call 413.737.2443 or visit easternstatesexposition.com/events for more information on this fun weekend of artistry.

A P RIL 4 T H

Business Lunch and Learn Featuring Unique Sales & Strategy

VILLA R OS E AT LUDLOW COUNT RY C LUB , E AST ST R E E T, LUDLOW MA | 1 1 :30 A M David Foley of Unique Sales & Strategy, along with Dylan Pilon, Allison Ebner, and Scott Haselkorn, discuss how businesses can maintain and grow in 2023 and beyond. Valuable tips for making every penny count in your business and how to effectively use your dollars to your advantage. Put on by the West of the River and ERC5 Chambers. Visit uniquesalesandstrategy.com.

A P RIL 6T H

Wellness Day, Madison Bull, LMHC and Samantha Machado, LMHC

2 00 S ILVER STREET, S UITE 216 , AGAWA M, MA | 3:0 0 P M Visit the Agawam location of Madison Bull, LMHC and Samantha Machado, LMHC, for their second annual Wellness Day. The event includes vendors, samples, mental health chats, emotional support awareness, resources, treats, and much more. Visit any time between 3 to 6 p.m. This is a free community event, with vendors selling self-care and gift items. Children welcome. Call 315.401.0893 for info.

A P RIL 2 2 N D

Ronald McDonald House of Springfield 32nd Annual Gala

T HE STARTIN G GATE AT G R EAT H O R S E , H A MP DE N, MA | 6 :0 0 P M Celebrating 32 years of supporting families of the Ronald McDonald House of Springfield, the 32nd Annual Gala brings together community partners and individuals together to enjoy an evening of music, dancing, and fine food. All proceeds of the event directly impact the families at the Ronald McDonald House of Springfield. Call 413.794.5683 or visit info@rmhc-ctma.org.

A P RIL 2 2 N D

Sew and Tell at Parsons Sewing Connections

2 005 RIVERDALE STR EET, W EST S P R I NG F I E L D, MA | 1 0 :30 A M Bring in a sewing or quilting project. It can be finished or in the works. Come see what everyone is working on and find inspiration in what others are doing. Bring in a project for a discount on notions. Call 413.301.9656.

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EVE N TS

taplinyardpumpandpower.com

Service on all equipment - even if you didn’t buy it from us

DO YOU REALLY HAVE TO CHOOSE? Franchising with us means making money and time for your life.

Commitment That Counts Pick up | Delivery

413.781.4352 taplinyardpumpandpower.com 197 Main Street Agawam, Massachusetts 01001

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EXPLORE LOCAL TRAVEL THROUGH OUR APRIL BOOK PICKS Make unique travel plans for road trips, camping, hikes, scenic byways, big city fun, and more ARTICLE BY SARA ANDERSON 1.

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1. New York City 2023, Frommer's 2. New England's Best Road Trips, Lonely Planet 3. Camping in Massachusetts, Sean Polanco Castillo 4. Yankee's New England Adventures, Editors of Yankee Magazine 5. The New Newport Bucket List, Larry Stanford 6. 50 Hikes in Connecticut, Mary Anne Hardy

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R OA D T R IP | TR AVEL

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OUR EDITOR'S CHOICES FOR GREAT BOOKS FOR PLANNING A DAY OR ROAD TRIP

7. Backroads & Byways of Vermont, Christina Tree 8. An Explorer's Guide: New Hampshire, Christina Tree and Christine Hamm 9. Connecticut Off the Beaten Path, Cindi D. Pietrzyk 10. Outdoor Adventures Acadia National Park, Jerry and Marcy Monkman 11. Boston, Lonely Planet

IF YOU’RE READY TO LOWER YOUR ENERGY BILLS AND EXPLORE WHETHER SOLAR CAN WORK FOR YOU, CALL ME TODAY.

GENERATE YOUR OWN SOLAR ENERGY Become less reliant on the utilities.

413.642.1008 PAYDEN YATES,

your neighborhood energy advisor.

GoSunRun.Com PAYDEN.YATES@SUNRUN.COM

Each Bride who books a private bridal tanning party between April 1, 2023 and July 31, 2023 will receive a complimentary full-body tan and a gift bag of aftercare products to keep your tan glowing through all the festivities!

MENTION THIS AD WHEN YOU BOOK YOUR PARTY.

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Visit our website at www.sgtans.com/bridaltans (or scan the QR code) for detailed information on tanning for your big day, and see reviews of past SG Brides.

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FULL-SERVICE RENTAL MANAGEMENT FOR THE PIONEER VALLEY ATTENTIVE SERVICE | EXPERIENCED FACILITY MANAGERS SKILLED MAINTENANCE SPECIALISTS

413.977.3154 | HGHOMEIMPROVEMENT.COM | b FOLLOW US ON FACEBOOK: HG HOME IMPROVEMENT INC.