West Springfield, MA September 2023

The Style Issue

BEAUTY

ALEXANDRA AESTHETICS

ELEVATES YOUR LOOK

FITNESS

EXERCISE YOUR STYLE WITH ONE ON ONE FITNESS STUDIO

SEPTEMBER

Make September a Month for Style

Our Style Issue really got me thinking about the concept of style. What does it mean to be “stylish?” The term usually is used as a positive or compliment, as in “I like your style,” or “those shoes are so stylish.” Are you on top of the latest trends in fashion and home décor, or did you find your vibe years ago? Often, those we describe as “stylish” are not necessarily at the cutting edge of fashion—they’re just comfortable and confident in their self-expression. Whether you relate to the classic elegance of Jackie O or the funky edge of Lenny Kravitz, style is personal and unique, limitless in its options.

In this issue, we explore personal style. As you will discover in our features this month, confidence is a key element to finding your style. Local businesses One-on-One Fitness and Alexandra Aesthetics help their clients build confidence by strengthening their bodies through exercise or enhancing their appearances through beauty treatments. Taking that confidence out into the world through photography is the next step, and we feature the work of two West Springfield Lifestyle photographers in the articles “Behind-theLens Authenticity” and “Super Styling Ideas for Senior Portraits.”

My own sense of style has been part of West Springfield Lifestyle since its launch in the November 2021 issue. Beginning with next month’s issue, we will have a new publisher at the helm, who will bring her own creativity and vision. I am excited for you to meet Bobbi-Jo Girroir, who is a passionate, energetic advocate for the businesses that fuel our community. I am endlessly grateful to the readers and partners who have helped create this publication, and I am confident that West Springfield Lifestyle will continue to be a meaningful platform for the people, businesses, events, and nonprofits in West Springfield, Agawam, and Feeding Hills.

September 2023

PUBLISHER

Amanda Waterfield | amanda.waterfield@citylifestyle.com

MANAGING EDITOR

Sara Anderson | sara.anderson@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Sara Anderson, Jordan Lemarier, Kellie Wagner

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

j81 Studios LLC, Karen Slack Photography

Corporate Team

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry

VICE PRESIDENT OF SALES Tiffany Slowinski

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson

DIRECTOR OF FIRST IMPRESSIONS Jennifer Robinson

TECHNICAL DIRECTOR Josh Klein

CONTROLLER Gary Johnson

AD DESIGNER Hunter Richie

LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsi Southard

AMANDA WATERFIELD, PUBLISHER @WESTSPRINGFIELD_LIFESTYLE

Learn

Proverbs 3:5-6

• DETAILING

• PAINT CORRECTION

• CERAMIC COATINGS

• PAINT PROTECTION

FILM (PPF)

• WINDOW TINT

• VINYL WRAP

city scene

Where neighbors can see and be seen.

Want to be seen in the magazine?

Tag your Instagram photos with @westspringfield_lifestyle

1: Pat Garbacik, the West Springfield Garden Club's Unsung Hero, is honored by Mayor Will Reichelt. 2: John Barber of CHH Engraving is sworn in as the Agawam Rotary Club president. 3: Paws on the Patio at the Shortstop in Westfield brought out this handsome pug. 4: Scoops of Agawam celebrated its first anniversary with a classic car show. 5: Photographer Branden Bruso overlooks West Springfield from atop the white church at Ghost Hit Recording. 6: Rotarians Betty Pandolfi, Mike Bertera, Sally Mularz, and Reid McManis serving at a summer concert.

7: bNapoli Italian offers a fall drink menu featuring hand-crafted specialty cocktails and traditional favorites.

JOHN BARBER

AMANDA WATERFIELD

BRANDEN BRUSO

AMANDA WATERFIELD

business monthly

A round-up of exciting news from local businesses.

Northstar Recovery Center Opens in West Springfield

Northstar Recovery Center opened at 1319 Riverdale Street in West Springfield, offering help for individuals and families struggling with drug and alcohol addiction. Senator John Velis and Mayor Will Reichelt attended the ribbon cutting. The center accepts most forms of insurance and is an in-network addiction treatment facility providing a partial hospitalization program (PHP), regular and evening intensive outpatient program (IOP), and virtual PHP and IOP. Find out more at 888.405.2047.

New Name, New Focus for BKaye Home Solutions

Renew Health Moves to New Location

BKaye Realty and Insurance is now BKaye Home Solutions. Their mission is to provide world-class service to people looking to transact, protect, manage, maintain, and enjoy real estate property. Their goal is to meet their clients’ needs at every stage of the real estate life cycle and give them an exceptional experience at every interaction.

Scan

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Renew Health LLC is now at 280 N. Main Street, Suite 10A in East Longmeadow, The physical therapy practice focuses on holistic pelvic floor therapy for conditions due to pregnancy, menopause, aging, and more. Dr. Alyssa Almeida and Dr. Brianna Almeida have a unique, special bond as identical twins that lends itself well to a dynamic and spirited partnership. Both doctors have extensive experience with pelvic floor disorders. Scan

Photography by West of the River Chamber of Commerce

Photography by BKaye Home Solutions

Photography by Renew Health LLC

Todd Bajor Earns Executive Council Qualification

Todd Bajor of West Springfield is a licensed agent with New York Life. He recently qualified for New York Life's Executive Council, an honor reserved for the top ten percent of the company's agents. Agents must demonstrate a track record of exceptional performance, proven sales success, and a deep understanding of their clients' needs. Through their expertise and dedication, they ensure that their clients' financial futures are secure and well-managed.

New Brands and New Instructors at Parsons Sewing Connections

Parsons Sewing Connections offers sales and service of new and previously loved sewing and embroidery machines at a price for every budget. Owner Anne Marie Whelihan reports that the business has recently introduced the PFAFF brand to their current lines of Brother and Husqvarna Viking machines. Mindy and Linda from Quilts and Treasures are joining the team of sewing instructors, with several new quilting classes for all sewing skill levels beginning in September. Visit sewingwithparsons.com.

Bradley Auto Wash Joins West of the River Chamber

West of the River Chamber of Commerce's newest member Bradley Auto Wash car wash offers daily specials, car wash gift booklets, and discounts on special days like Wacky Wednesday and Ladies' Day. They recommend you wash your car weekly through fall and winter to keep your vehicle in top condition. In July, they donated space at their business at 1039 Memorial Ave., West Springfield, for clothes and shoes collection bins to help families in need.

Photography by Karen Slack Photography

Photography by j81 Studios LLC

Photography by Bradley Auto Wash

30,000 SQUARE FEET, INCLUDING 2 ICE RINKS, GOLF SIMULATORS, BATTING CAGES, TURF FIELD, BOXED FIELD

SEPTEMBER 2023

local experiences

The best places and things to do in our area.

Give your wardrobe an easy and affordable refresh by visiting local consignment and thrift shops. Not only will you find new-to-you treasures for your fall wardrobe, you can consign, sell, or donate clothing and accessories that have been languishing in your closet. Consignment/thrift shops are especially great as we head into fall and winter and may be looking for an outfit or dress that may be worn only once for a special event. Supporting local consignment and thrift shops is a win–win all around!

Our Picks for The Style Scene

SOUL SHINE CONSIGNMENT BOUTIQUE: Soul Shine Consignment Boutique at 360 N. Westfield St. Suite 7, Feeding Hills, opened in 2021 and offers likenew women's clothing, shoes, handbags, and jewelry. 360 N. Westfield St. Suite 7, Feeding Hills, Massachusetts 01030

DESIGNER CONSIGNOR: Southwick's Designer Consignor features an excellent selection of designer and better retail store labels. Explore the $5 discount rack as well as home décor offerings. 549B College Hwy. Southwick, MA 01077

LA GLAM CONSIGNMENT BOUTIQUE: La Glam Consignment Boutique in East Longmeadow is your place for women's designer clothing, shoes, luxury handbags, jewelry, and more. 54 Shaker Rd., East Longmeadow, Massachusetts 01028

PLATO'S CLOSET: West Springfield's Plato's Closet is a popular national chain that buys and sells the latest trends in teen and young adult clothing and accessories.  1472 Riverdale St., West Springfield, Massachusetts 01089

SAVERS: Donate your unneeded clothes and get shopping for a new wardrobe at amazing prices. Savers is a great place to get men's and women's workwear! 135 Memorial Ave., West Springfield, Massachusetts 01089

Scan for more photos and the full list.

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Designer Consignor

A Passion for Beauty

Helping other women builds Alexandra Aesthetics owner Alyssa Amato’s own confidence

ARTICLE BY KELLIE WAGNER | PHOTOGRAPHY BY J81 STUDIOS LLC

Women visit salons for a boost of confidence. Such self confidence is something that eluded Alyssa Amato, licensed esthetician and owner of Alexandra Aesthetics, in high school. “I feel twenty times more confident now,” Alyssa, 27, says of encouraging women to feel their best. “Working with my clients helps with that.”

In her beauty studio located in Feeding Hills, Alyssa strives to make her customers not only feel welcome and relaxed, but to achieve the look that is most becoming to them. Among the services offered are

Alyssa Amato, owner of Alexandra Aesthetics

multiple styles of eyebrow enhancement, such as microblading and Nano brows, eyelash extensions, waxing, makeup application, tattooed 3D freckles, and permanent jewelry.

“I always have an opinion on the specific service,” Alyssa says. “I start with ‘less is more.’ As clients come in and trust is built over time, I tailor their look to the shape of their eyes, the distance of brows to eyelids. It really is a mathematical process.” She ensures that “everyone feels comfortable before any service begins.”

The soothing space at Alexandra Aesthetics

Alyssa also promises to be gently honest if a client wants a particular look that may not suit them. The one thing all women want, whether they are 17 or 70, she says, is not only to look and feel good, but to save time in getting ready, which her services provide.

A licensed esthetician, Alyssa is eager to keep up on the latest trends for her clients. She’s traveled to Las Vegas, New York, California, and Mexico to take advanced classes from top-of-the-line specialists. Her next plan is to attend a training in London. “I’m looking to advance my skills all of the time,” she shares.

Although Alexandra Aesthetics is located in the house Alyssa grew up in and currently shares with her daughter and parents, the studio is located in the lower level with its own dedicated driveway, walkway, and entrance. She has separate areas within her studio for her various services. “I use a little sage for good energy and I’ve created my own little oasis,” Alyssa says. “It has very Zen-like vibes.”

Because the full-service beauty studio is in such a residential setting, Alyssa says she doesn’t want people to assume that her services are anything but highly professional. She has had to not only purchase her own studio inventory and design and decorate her space to perfection, but also pass state and local health inspections and requirements.

A graduate of Agawam High School, Alyssa used to wake up at 4 a.m. just to do her make up. “It was pretty ridiculous,” she laughs. “But it gave me the motivation to get up and go to school.”

When she started to consider her life beyond high school, Alyssa was pregnant, and college was something that did not really appeal to her.

It was her mother who suggested the idea of beauty school. Alyssa says she was not sold on the idea at first, but quickly learned that she has an obsession for the art of making others feel good through beauty. “I truly love it — it’s my passion,” she says.

After completing the esthetics course at Jolie Academy in Ludlow and obtaining her esthetician license, the real experience for Alyssa came with her first job working under an established esthetician at the high-end Bellucci Salon & Day Spa in Springfield. It was a positive experience for Alyssa because the salon owner runs “a tight ship” and Alyssa learned from a highly reputable esthetician known for being “one of the best,” she explains.

Alyssa then worked for other salons, where she enjoyed forging relationships with clients and making them feel good about themselves. But she often found herself thinking about being her own boss and knew that her passion lay in opening her own salon. So in 2021, she decided to take the leap and open Alexandra Aesthetics. “It was ‘now or never’,” Alyssa says of making the move. “I can fail, or it will be the best thing ever.” She definitely agrees with the latter!

Alexandra Aesthetics

1024 N. West Street

Feeding Hills, MA

860.559.0886

A lexandra.glossgenius.com

In 2021, Alyssa Amato decided to take the leap and open her own salon. “It was ‘now or never’,” she says. “I can fail, or it will be the best thing ever.”

YOUR STYLE OF FITNESS SELF-CARE

ARTICLE BY JORDAN LEMARIER

PHOTOGRAPHY BY J81 STUDIOS LLC

ONE ON ONE FITNESS STUDIO FOSTERS A UNIQUE APPROACH FOR A LIFELONG LOVE OF HEALTH

Confidence. In addition to a lack of time, one of the top reasons that most people do not work out is a lack of confidence. Entering a gym full of equipment you’ve never seen before can be overwhelming — let alone having to learn how to actually use it. Time is of the essence, and One on One Fitness Studio in West Springfield is the answer to becoming the healthiest version of you.

Peter Samberg, who has a Bachelor of Science degree in fitness management and is a certified strength and conditioning specialist (CSCS), opened his studio in 2004 with the goal of providing a supportive yet straightforward system for individuals looking to improve their health and fitness.

The studio at 1346 Elm Street is tucked in the back of a two-story building and has a seemingly simple exterior, but enter the interior and you’ll be impressed with the studio’s highly functional yet attractive layout. Peter has designed the studio to give clients a feeling of privacy and comfort. Several small rooms offer intimate training environments for all levels of fitness, including for those who have never set foot in a gym before.

Peter Samberg, owner of One on One Fitness Studio

Alongside a certified trainer, clients are educated and supported throughout their workouts in a distraction-free zone until they feel comfortable in their personal programs. The smaller rooms provide a retreat and comfort level not typically available in larger gyms.

Peter and his team strive to offer a fundamental approach to fitness without gimmicks or fad diets. “My ultimate goal is to teach clients how to get healthy and sustain those habits for life. This is not a quick-fix or gimmicky approach — and there’s no supplement pushing either. I always preach the importance of balance,” Peter shares.

When a client first meets with their trainer, they will have a “get to know you” session that enables the trainer to fully understand the client’s goals and motivations, what fitness approaches they have previously tried (successfully or otherwise), and what types of methods they do not care for.

A space at One on One Fitness Studio

A unique aspect of One on One Fitness Studio is the in-depth body composition assessment, a measurement of body fat percentage, muscle mass, and even the amount of water in the body. The analysis concisely breaks down body composition specific to each leg, arm, and yes, even the more-targeted areas such as the belly. The data gathered from this assessment is vital in showing a client’s progress in a concrete way, in addition to revealing how they personally feel over time in terms of their energy levels and strength.

Peter Samberg and his team of trainers provide clients a unique opportunity to feel comfortable as they improve their physical health, endurance, and overall body confidence. One on One Fitness Studio allows clients to create their personal vision for fitness and health goals and then execute it in the way that makes them feel the most confident, supported, and successful.

Your individual self-care style is elevated to a new level the moment the work is started from within, including the confidence to improve your health in a supportive environment with a simple approach to lifelong physical wellbeing.

One on One Fitness Studio is ready to help you. For amazing video testimonials of successful clients, visit www.oneononefitstudio.com . For additional inspiration, visit facebook.com/OneonOneFitStudio and Instagram.com/oneononefitstudio. Peter and his team can be reached at 413.330.3597. Start your health journey today!

“My ultimate goal is to teach clients how to get healthy and sustain those habits for life.”

BEHIND-THE-LENS AUTHENTICITY

ARTICLE BY SARA ANDERSON PHOTOGRAPHY BY JONATHAN JONES, J81 STUDIOS LLC

Jonathan Jones, photographer and owner of j81 Studios

We sat down with innovative artist Jon Jones, founder and owner of j81 Studios, to delve into the topic of personal branding and the high-stakes world of commercial photography. Jon shares how his captivating images forge connections and leave a lasting impact on brands and audiences alike.

AFTER A SUCCESSFUL ADVERTISING CAREER, WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO START YOUR OWN PHOTOGRAPHY BUSINESS?

After spending a good chunk of my life in the advertising game — 17 years to be exact — I got hit with an unexpected twist when the company I worked for got acquired and my role was redirected. I saw it as my chance to jump into the entrepreneurial world and start j81 Studios. It's all about bringing together fresh perspective, artistic vision, and a whole lot of experience to make a mark that’s both memorable and meaningful.

WHAT TYPES OF PHOTOGRAPHY DO YOU SPECIALIZE IN?

I focus j81 Studios exclusively on commercial photography for businesses and brands. This niche allows me to leverage my expertise in photography toward marketing initiatives, e-commerce, and building brand trust. I specialize in product photography that entices customers and is used in advertising campaigns and online marketplaces. Leaning on my advertising and art direction experience, I showcase the unique features that make each product stand out.

In addition to product photography, I enjoy capturing behind-the-scenes images that build trust and authenticity, showcasing dedication, craftsmanship, and the customer experience. By documenting a brand’s work environment, processes, and interactions — from the solo handyman to the corporate law office — I help businesses forge personal connections with customers.

Another important component in business photography is headshots. Just as product photography sells an item and behind-the-scenes photography builds trust through authenticity, headshot photography unites a team with a company’s brand and establishes an individual’s professionalism through personal branding.

WHAT DOES PERSONAL BRANDING MEAN IN TERMS OF HEADSHOT PHOTOGRAPHY?

It's probably important to note that a headshot must meet certain expectations, and a personal branding shoot has much more creative leeway. Under the umbrella of a headshot, the goal is to capture the individual’s personality and connect with the viewer — in a single image.

Since a good headshot serves as the “logo” of an individual’s brand across all of their media, careful consideration is given to micro-expressions, body language, and posture — in concert with lighting, camera height, and framing. Slight adjustments are made throughout the shoot to guide the subject to the image they feel best reflects themselves.

“Headshots establish a visual identity people connect with, building trust and credibility.

Using a headshot across various platforms and marketing collateral reinforces a personal brand and leaves a lasting impression on audiences.”

The goal of a headshot is to capture the individual’s personality and connect with the viewer

Jon guides subjects to the image they feel best reflects themselves

A good headshot serves as the “logo” of an individual’s brand across all their media

A well-executed headshot reflecting an individual’s personal brand establishes a visual identity that people can connect with and remember, building trust and credibility, and differentiates them in a competitive marketplace. By consistently using their “branded” headshot across various platforms and marketing materials, professionals can maintain a cohesive image and leave a lasting impression on their audience.

CAN YOU PROVIDE TIPS FOR CLIENTS SEEKING PERSONAL BRANDING PHOTOS BEYOND HEADSHOTS?

When approaching personal branding beyond headshots, it’s essential to focus on communication. I meet clients via Zoom or in person to understand their personalities and their target audience, goals for the session, intended use of their photos, and values they seek to convey. We discuss wardrobe, colors, and locations. If they are a key player in a larger company, I capture complimentary branding colors and shoot “at work” if it’s viable. If they are a solopreneur, consultant, or other role without a main work location, I’ll shoot their “day in the life.” For example, with a realtor we establish their hustle with shots on the phone, at a coffee shop, loading their car, setting up signage, handing off keys, etc.

The main objective of a personal branding shoot is to curate a series of images that harmonize through photographic techniques and capture the subject’s attitude and personality, providing enough content for several months of social media posting and also on “about us” pages. These images become a powerful tool for connecting and engaging with target markets through building familiarity with the audience, while conveying the subject’s personal brand.

Beyond the headshot that will be used across all company marketing and social media, a personal branding shoot explores the individual and builds trust, just like a behind-the-scenes business session “pulls back the curtain” and builds authenticity with the audience.

j81 Studios is located at 42 Water Street in Granville, just minutes from Westfield. Jon’s website is j81studios.com. He can be reached at 413.357.4949 or info@j81studios.com.

Super Styling Ideas for Senior Portraits

ARTICLE BY SARA ANDERSON PHOTOGRAPHY BY KAREN SLACK PHOTOGRAPHY

The senior portrait session captures a moment when one chapter is ending and a new one is beginning, with photos for your senior yearbook and friends, and also treasured gifts for family. Westfield photographer Karen Slack shares her tips to make your personality shine through.

PLAN AHEAD

Research potential photographers to see their consistent editing and posing styles. “If you like dark and moody, don’t choose someone who edits in light and airy,” Karen notes. “A phone consultation helps you know if you’ll jive with the photographer.” Find out what’s trending in fashion styles and locations, and save images to show your photographer.

PHOTOSHOOT LOCATIONS

Whether choosing city locales or a beautiful park — or both — make sure locations are feasible. Karen says, “Some photographers

restrict location choices, while others allow for several, and you want to know beforehand.” Consider outfits for various locations. A natural setting calls for casual clothes — but formalwear can also look stunning. “An urban locale is a fun place for trendy or formal styles,” Karen shares. Brainstorm outfits for settings with your photographer.

COLORS AND PATTERNS

Determine colors that work best with your skin tone and hair color. Karen explains, “Solids are best and less distracting; consider trying different neutral and vibrant colors for variety. Subtle floral patterns and plaids can also work wonderfully.” Dark colors like black, gray, and navy are formal, while lighter colors and denims are casual. White can be casual or sophisticated, depending on the outfit. Vibrant clothing can add fun, but avoid slogans and branding that “may not stand the test of time in your portraits,” suggests Karen.

Westfield photographer Karen Slack’s tips for getting the most out of your senior portrait session

OUTFIT IDEAS

Dresses are a great choice — formal dresses, sundresses, and rompers are popular. Consider a matching, two-piece outfit featuring a top and skirt. Karen notes that “denim, especially in jackets, is a perennial favorite for senior portraits.” For guys, a tailored suit or blazer with dress pants is a great option for a puttogether look. For a more casual approach, consider a button-down, polo, or Henley shirt with khaki pants or shorts, or an interesting tee with shorts or jeans.

ACCESSORIZE

Shoes, jewelry, hats, ties, scarves, and sunglasses can show off your unique style. Avoid patterned shoes with patterned outfits, and choose comfortable footwear. “Heels are nice, but not for long periods of standing,” notes Karen. Accessories add pops of color and unique touches. You might consider accessorizing with your musical instrument, sports equipment, or creative work.

HAIR, NAILS, AND MAKEUP

Make grooming appointments just prior to your photoshoot, but hair appointments are best done a week in advance, to allow for adjustments to cut or color. Practice your makeup or book with a stylist to try out looks. Neutral nail polish goes with all outfits; avoid flashy designs. Guys can benefit from a manicure for clean, attractive nails and cuticles.

TRY ON OUTFITS

“I tell my clients to take selfies of the outfits they are considering,” Karen says. “Outfits that look great in person don’t always photograph well; this is a good way to filter out unflattering items.” Once you’ve gone through your closet and perhaps purchased some clothing or accessories, try on and photograph your outfits and share them with your photographer. Karen says that “by working with your photographer beforehand and bringing along a helper for your photoshoot, you’ll be sure to create a fun, memorable experience.”

Karen’s advice for seniors is to “not stress too much about all the little details. It can be as involved or simple as you’d like to make it. The most important thing is that you are relaxed and enjoying yourself, because this is what will show in your photos.”

Karen Slack Photography is located at 77 Mill Street, Suite 300, in Westfield. She can be reached at 413.896.0047 or karenslackphotography.com.

Casa di Lisa

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

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

SEPTEMBER 9TH

Fourth Annual Pro and Local Charity Car Show

POLISH AMERICAN CLUB OF AGAWAM, 139 SOUTHWICK ST., FEEDING HILLS, MA | 9:00 AM

From 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., with any donation amount you choose to attend, all donations go to the Holyoke Soldiers Home. All vehicles welcome; breakfast food truck and Circuit Coffee. Three awards for best in show and three for P&L choice. The most unique/rare and interesting cars in a fun show to support a great local cause! Call 413.786.0927.

SEPTEMBER 9TH

Fiftieth Annual Mattoon Street Arts Festival

MATTOON STREET, SPRINGFIELD, MA | 10:00 AM

The 50th Mattoon Street Arts Festival on Saturday, September 9 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday, September 10 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Featuring 100 exhibitors, food vendors, and strolling musicians. Family-friendly event—great for holiday shopping and seeing new craft ideas! Free parking at the TD Bank lot and free admission. Call 413.736.0629.

SEPTEMBER 15TH

John Fogerty at The Big E

EASTERN STATES EXPOSITION, 1305 MEMORIAL AVE., WEST SPRINGFIELD, MA | 7:30 PM

Visit thebige.com/p/buy-tickets to get your tickets to see music legend John Fogerty, Grammy winner and leader of Creedence Clearwater Revival. Fogerty’s style forges blues, country, pop, rockabilly, R&B, swamp boogie, and Southern fried rock ‘n’ roll. Featuring hit songs “Centerfield,” “Proud Mary,”

“Susie Q,” “Fortunate Son,” “Born on the Bayou,” “Bad Moon Rising,” and “Have You Ever Seen the Rain.”

SEPTEMBER 23RD

Six Flags Kids Boo Fest

SIX FLAGS NEW ENGLAND, 1623 MAIN ST., AGAWAM, MA |

12:00 PM

Starting Saturday, September 23 and running weekends through October 29, get ready for the best Halloween event of the season, featuring family-friendly thrills by day! Runs from 12 to 6 p.m. Visit sixflags. com/newengland/events or call 413.786.9300 for more information.

SEPTEMBER 23RD

The Mark Twain House

Annual Bark Twain Bash

MARK TWAIN HOUSE AND MUSEUM, 351 FARMINGTON AVE., HARTFORD, CT | 5:00 PM

The Mark Twain House and Museum and Kenway’s Cause presents an evening of celebrating four-legged friends, with proceeds benefitting Kenway’s Cause and the Mark Twain House & Museum. Presenting special awards for animals and friends and hosted by iHeartMedia’s Renee DiNino and Buzz Engine’s Jacques Lamarre. $40 ticket includes goodies from David James Catering; cash bar. Call 860.247.0998.

SEPTEMBER 24TH

Killer Queen Concert

MGM SPRINGFIELD, ONE MGM WAY, SPRINGFIELD, MA | 7:30 PM

Killer Queen has been performing a tribute to Queen since 1993. The U.K.based group has entertained sold-out audiences across the world with their expert musicianship, extraordinary energy, and authenticity. With Patrick Myers as Freddie Mercury, Killer Queen recreates the powerful spectacle of the world’s greatest live band. For more information, call 413.273.5000 or visit mgmspringfield.mgmresorts.com/en/ entertainment/aria-ballroom.html.

Want to be featured?

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

THE little BLACK DRESS

Most of us can say we have that one staple black dress that can be worn at any occasion, and the classic look is not only popular but is elegant and timeless. It is one of the most versatile items we own, never goes out of style and looks good on anyone. But how did this classic look originate?

Prior to the 1920’s, black was reserved for funeral wear, but when Coco Channel made the bold move to print a short, black dress on the cover of Vogue in 1926, all of that changed. The popularity of the black dress skyrocketed, and it became one of the most influential pieces of clothing. Because of its affordability, black remained a popular choice during The Great Depression. The black dress had another boom in popularity when “Breakfast at Tiffany’s’’ debuted, and Audrey Hepburn showcased her iconic black dress with long, black gloves.

We enlisted the help of stylist, Amani Skalacki, to show us how versatile the little black dress can be. “We usually think of the little black dress as a piece you wear to an event. However, because black is so flattering on all body types and skin tones, women have multiple black dresses from casual to evening,” Amani says.

“A sequin dress can be dressed up with heels, or that same dress can be transformed into a casual outfit with the addition of tennis shoes and an oversized blazer or a denim jacket. Transform that strappy dress you have been wearing all summer into an outfit that is perfect for chilly fall temperatures. Add a narrow scarf, a leather jacket and sandals or a tall pointy boot, and you have a whole new look for an evening out,” Amani adds.

If you have a dress in the back of your closet that you haven’t worn in years, don’t be afraid to dust it off and give it new life.

Are you looking for the best cut or style of dress that works best for your body type?

HOURGLASS FIGURE:

• V-necklines

• Cinched-in waistlines

• Tailored/fitted dresses

PEAR OR TRIANGLE

FIGURE:

• Tailored dresses

• Off the shoulder

ATHLETIC FIGURE:

• Embellished

• Ruffles

• Empire waist

• Volume is your friend

APPLE FIGURE:

• Drop waist

• A-line

The dress that all body types can’t go wrong with is a wrap dress of any length.

ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES

STYLIST: AMANI SKALACKI

YOUR LOCAL HEADQUARTERS FOR LONGINES WATCHES

Characterized by a pioneering spirit, a quest for precision and a timeless vision of elegance.

(413) 536-7353

Located at the Holyoke Mall (lower level)