A Personalized Approach
Let's Talk Stock...
Don't worry, this isn't a lecture on Fortune 500 companies and Blue-Chip stocks. This issue is a reminder to us all to take stock in our own lives. There is something empowering about taking care of yourself, your home, and your family. Investing in what makes you thrive is not selfish, in fact it is the best way to set yourself up for success, and in-turn, help those around you.
Throughout this issue, we will show you the best local way to invest in your kitchen... where you invest in good food...which helps you invest in your health and happiness. We will take a stroll through Westfield, and the artists who invest their time and effort into showing how creativity brings people together, making us an official "cultural district." We will go over some future planning for our seniors, and how they can set themselves up to be taken care of in a way they deserve. Finally, we will look at our own beautiful Stanley Park, and why our investments into it mean so very much.
Looking into our lives, seeing ourselves being "nickel and dimed" at every turn, it is important to set priorities. Realizing there are still good causes out there is a sign that we, as people, can still do the right thing when it matters. The best way to do this, is to find your "why." What makes you happy? Find that thing and invest in it. Invest time in helping clean the community if that makes you smile. Invest time in patronizing local businesses if you want to see them flourish. Invest time in your mental and physical health, as our body and mind are not invincible.
Thank you, as always, for taking the time to go through this issue with us. Look through our ads, visit our partners, and support our community... the more we invest in each other, the better we will be.
Cheers,
April 2025
PUBLISHER
Wade Rivest | wade.rivest@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Virginia Maldonado, Amanda Waterfield, Maureen Sullivan
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
j81 Studios, C.Pinney Photography, Artworks Westfield
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
CTO Ajay Krishnan
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders
AD DESIGNER Jenna Crawford
LAYOUT DESIGNER Emily Lisenbee
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Marina Campbell
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1: Superior attention to detail, from the crew at Kitchens Direct, Inc. 2: Athletes from Western Mass Gymnastics take home 1st place, earning $2000 for charity! 3: Virginia slinging some of the best cocktails around with Karen at Bar Shoppe Southwick 4: Memories on Elm Banquets and More hosting "Speed Networking" with the Chamber of Commerce 5: Learn to fly, with lessons right here in Westfield at Fly LUGU 6: A full house for entertainment at 52 Sumner 7: "The Garage" at Short Stop Bar & Grill jumping into the live entertainment scene.
ERIC METIVIER
GREYBEARD MEDIA LLC
BAR SHOPPE SOUTHWICK
SHORT STOP BAR & GRILL
ANGELA PARK
FLY LUGU
8: Dakin pup getting the love it deserves 9: Bill
WKB Carpentry, giving a presentation explaining why he is the go-to window guy. 10:
in Westfield is open and ready for instructional classes! 11: Steve Duga and Barry Kerch, owners of locally roasted Spartan Brews Coffee
12:
HS freshmen handing out "Candy Grams" to classmates. 13: Member of the Brain Injury Community Center having a group conversation. 14: Pig Yoga is real, and made it to Mass Appeal
Butler,
The Picklr
Co.
St. Mary's
DAKIN HUMANE SOCIETY
THE PICKLR MASS APPEAL
SPARTAN BREWS COFFEE CO.
KITCHENS DIRECT, INC.
ARTICLE BY CITY LIFESTYLE COLLABORATION
PHOTOGRAPHY BY C.PINNEY PHOTOGRAPHY
ETCHED IN STONE / DELIVERING BEAUTIFUL KITCHENS AND STONEWORK TO WESTERN MASS FOR 27 YEARS
Kitchens Direct, Inc is a wholesale kitchen distributor who also specializes in granite and quartz. Founded in 1998 by Rich and Diane Metivier, KDI has always stood for meticulous detail and personalized service. Today with their son Eric, the family continues to uphold this promise and their reputation taking homeowners from showroom to finished product with care and expertise. “We feel a great amount of responsibility to our customers, and this gives us a significant amount of pride,” Rich shares. “That’s why our builders and renovation contractors refer their clients to us.”
Step into their Southampton Road showroom to see the impressive selection of cabinetry, hardware, quartz, and granite. KDI has the largest full stone slab collection so clients can see how the movement and veining look. “It is so much better than making your decision from a 6”x12” and 10”x10” sample piece,” Rich emphasizes. Speaking of design, Eric has mastered 3D computer design and customers can view their final kitchen in full color on the big screen TV... and that is priceless.
“We take very seriously what we do here, and I think it shows. Most importantly we want your kitchen to fit perfectly and be done right the first time,” Rich shares. “We carefully guide clients through choices to avoid costly mistakes,” Rich reassures. KDI has a protocol to help coordinate cabinets, colors, and stone countertops. “Visit our showroom and we’ll answer every question that you have. We’ll give you straight answers,
and the answers are very important.” KDI’s design style maximizes space and functionality where homeowners and designers collaborate on a customized kitchen to enjoy. KDI delivers the whole package — from initial design consultation in the showroom, to the job site field measure, to rendering the finished design and final installation.
945 Southampton Rd, Westfield 413-568-3353 | kitchensdirectmass.com Showroom Hours: Tues-Fri 9AM-5PM | Sat 9AM-4PM
Custom decor Rich, Diane and Eric Metivier
top notch selection
longevity and experience
visit our showroom
Westfield Downtown Cultural District
ARTICLE
In the heart of Westfield, a creative renaissance is unveiling. The Westfield Downtown Cultural District - an emerging hub where art, history, and modern creativity collide - is on a mission to infuse the city with community spirit and artistic commerce. Through the collective efforts of organizations that anchor the city’s cultural events, Westfield is on track towards a creative economy with the promise to bring together artists, residents, and businesses for a revival.
“We can make this place poppin’. We just need fuel for the fire,” Bianca Jimènez, a key advocate, sings. “People are craving community and connection.” Westfield Downtown Cultural District serves as a platform to ensure that diverse voices and talents have equal opportunities to shine. It also supports local businesses, and activating spaces through art, history, and entertainment to draw people into town. Bianca dreams of a public stage where performers and musicians from all over put Westfield on the map by sharing their talents year-round.
BY VIRGINIA MALDONADO | PHOTOGRAPHY BY ARTWORKS WESTFIELD
ARToberfest 2024
The June 2025 event is a highly anticipated Kick-Off to the growing movement. This celebration will feature live performances, musicians, vendors, and delicious food and drinks to set the stage for Westfield’s future landscape. Want to get involved? Contact Bianca to collaborate!
Westfield’s charm plays a significant role in the district’s vision. Nestled in the valley with the Berkshires to the west and urban metros like Springfield, Hartford, and Boston nearby, Westfield is perfectly positioned to attract business and creative energy of all calibers. The growing revitalization of downtown — with its quaint shops, cafes, and retail spaces — is already signaling an economic and cultural boom.
To get involved, follow the Westfield Downtown Cultural District on social media for updates. Attend the Kick-Off event, support local art initiatives, and shop at small businesses in town. Find a way to contribute to this dynamic movement by communicating with your community members and organization leaders. The future of Westfield is creative — come be a part of it.
WESTFIELD IS READY FOR ITS CREATIVE REVIVAL. Bianca Jimènez | Bianca.Jimenez@cityofwestfield.org Economic Development Coordinator | City of Westfield
The main purpose of the Westfield Cultural Council is to allocate grant monies annually from the Massachusetts Cultural Council. We aim to make Westfield a little brighter and more welcoming by enabling the growth of arts and culture right at home.
ArtWorks Westfield "Art with Pride"
Bianca Jimènez
ARTICLE BY KRISTY BELLEY
The drink that makes you look forward to TAX DAY
INCOME TAX cocktail
INGREDIENTS:
• 1½ oz. Gin
• ¾ oz. Dry Vermouth
• ¾ oz. Sweet Vermouth
• ¾ oz. Freshly Squeezed Orange Juice
• 2 Dashes Angastura Bitters
• Orange Twist
• Glass Type: Coupe
DIRECTIONS:
1. Squeeze your OJ.
2. Add everything to your shaker with ice.
3. Shake.
4. Pour into your coupe.
5. Twist your orange peel again, like you did last summer.
6. Garnish.
7. Enjoy being done with taxes.
8. And a good cocktail.
The Income Tax Cocktail likely popped up during the Prohibition party scene of the 1920s. Its exact origin story remains a bit blurry, but it was definitely a hit in speakeasies. The name? Well, it's like a cheeky nod to the idea that sipping on this cocktail might be more fun than paying actual taxes! Made with gin, sweet vermouth, orange juice, and a dash of bitters, it's like a boozy adventure for your taste buds, with hints of citrus and herbs. Despite its vintage roots, the Income Tax Cocktail still brings the party vibes, transporting you back to the roaring '20s.
JOIN OUR TEAM!
20 Elm Street, Suite A Westfield, MA 01085
413-562-4030
CHRISTINA BEEKE
In the complex, sometimes-confusing realm of Medicare, it can be difficult to know what your needs and options are when it comes to the best coverage. Enter Christina Beeke. Christina is a Westfieldbased independent insurance agent who specializes in helping people with Medicare. “I help give people a basic understanding of Medicare,” explains Christina. Her knowledge of options and regulations, including prescription drug coverage, is available at no cost to clients. Part of her job is education; people often make assumptions about what is or is not covered and how to select coverage. She represents most insurance carriers in our area, ensuring that the right plan is available to each client.
Christina can help everyone from a first-time applicant to someone who has been on Medicare for years but wants to review their coverage for potential areas of improvement. Some people will do a year-over-year review. “We can do a quick review,” says Christina. “If they are on new meds or if they are with new doctors, we confirm the plan is still right.” Many of the clients Christina works with do not realize that everyone must sign up for Medicare within three months of their 65th birthday. Failure to apply on time can lead to penalties later on. “I’ve seen it happen,” states Christina. A range
of factors, including employment status, income, and health, play into what the best solution is for each individual. It’s rewarding work for Christina, who represents eight insurance carriers. “Knowing that I’m helping people pick the right plan and not feeling like they’re all alone is very rewarding,” says Christina. “They have someone to call and ask questions.”
Often, an employer will bring Christina in to present to employees on what their postemployment coverage looks like and how to get the most out of Medicare. This is beneficial to businesses, she notes, “Because then people aren’t spending time on the clock figuring it out themselves.” For people who have been on Medicare for a while, it can make sense to review coverage and make updates to reflect
changes in their circumstances. Christina is willing to go to the client, meeting in people’s homes and at the Athenaeum, for example. Christina often works with people in their early sixties who want to get a head start on their planning. If it’s time for you to start thinking about Medicare, do yourself a favor and call Christina. She’ll explain the various parts of Medicare -- coverages, deductibles, and all of the considerations -- finding the best coverage for you. Christina Beeke Independent Insurance Agent 413-977-6016 “We do not offer every plan available in your area. Currently we represent 8 organizations which offer 44 products in Massachusetts. Please contact Medicare.gov, 1800MEDICARE, or your local State Health Insurance Program to get information on all of your options.”
Three UltraUnique Getaways for Families
A TRIO OF FUN-FILLED ESCAPES THAT WILL LEAVE YOUR FAMILY BEGGING FOR MORE
ARTICLE BY NADINE BUBECK
Introducing Vermejo...
“At the end of the day, your feet should be dirty, your hair messy and your eyes sparkling.”
Bienvenidos to Raton, New Mexico, home to Vermejo Ted Turner Reserves. Flaunting over 550,000 acres of picturesque terrain, Vermejo will welcome your family to a crown jewel of natural beauty.
This destination invites you to custom plan a swoon-worthy experience; choose between kid-friendly fishing expeditions, hiking tours, horseback rides, archery, and more. Indulge in your choice of luxe accommodations and take your taste pallet on a culinary adventure thanks to delectable dining options.
Notably, the property values conservation efforts including the protection of wildlife like bison and wolves.
Rates inclusive of meals and two daily activities.
Introducing Glenwood Springs...
“The greatest legacy we can leave our children is happy memories.”
Happy memories await in Glenwood Springs, Colorado. Known for its hot springs, the Rocky Mountain resort city is rich with wildlife and sheer beauty. Offering an array of family-friendly activities, the area is home to the esteemed Glenwood Springs Adventure Park, a must-do with amusement rides and subterranean caverns—a magical geological excursion.
Surely, you’ll want to take a dip in the world’s largest mineral hot springs pool. Invigorating and rejuvenating for adults and super fun for kids, there’s a vast splash zone, water slide, diving board, and lap lanes.
Glenwood Springs is primed with pristine river spots; the white water is mild and ideal for guided rafting adventures. You can also rent duckies (inflatable kayaks) or paddleboards.
If you’re going to check one hike off your list, opt for the Doc Holliday memorial, and for older kids, explore mountain biking paths for every skill on the paved Rio Grande Trail. In addition, Bair Ranch, located in Glenwood Canyon, offers several activities like horseback riding, ATV & Jeep tours, and sport clay shooting.
Family accommodations include Hotel Glenwood Springs, located at the Glenwood Gondola base that goes to Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park. The property also flaunts a small indoor water facility. For included admission to the hot springs pool, families can also book the Glenwood Hot Springs Lodge. The exciting city has over 80 restaurant choices as well.
Glenwood Springs
Vermejo Ted Turner
Introducing Snow Mountain Ranch...
“Never underestimate the importance of having fun.”
Consider Snow Mountain Ranch a fun hub for families; a camp-like atmosphere for those seeking a genuine back-tothe-basics escape. Located in Grand Country Colorado, the YMCA of the Rockies destination is what vacation is meant to be... packed with frivolous play. Awake to breathtaking mountain views and the sound of songbirds, and after an actionpacked day, witness a dreamy sunset from your personal porch.
Accommodations vary; choose between private cabins, spacious lodge rooms, scenic campgrounds, or yurts. Cabins can sleep up to 12, and are equipped with full kitchens, a fireplace, and a deck. You’ll likely spot some deer outside your front door.
Included in all stays: roller skating, swimming, mini-golf, sports, hiking/biking trails, nature walks, and more. But
what makes Snow Mountain extra special are the entertaining “extras.” To make the most out of your stay, partake in archery, axe throwing, horseback riding, arts/crafting, knot-tying, geocaching, and beyond. Plus, there are tons of educational programs that teach guests about local wildlife like bears and wolves. And here’s a tip; if you’re craving some adult-only time, choose to register your child (ages 3+) for summer day camp. Grown-ups can do some adventuring of their own while the kids get a taste of what summer’s supposed to be. And as for food, there’s an array of on-site dining options available.
Everyone will feel like a kid at Snow Mountain Ranch, and the secret’s out; cabins book far in advance, so be sure to secure your spot well ahead of time.
Snow Mountain Ranch
STANLEY park
A Gift of Nature in Westfield
ARTICLE BY MAUREEN SULLIVAN | PHOTOGRAPHY BY J81 STUDIOS & STANLEY PARK
Frank Stanley Beveridge, the founder of Stanley Home Products fulfilled his lifelong love of nature by creating a refuge of physical and spiritual beauty. Here, people could enjoy gardens, trails, music, education, sporting and cultural activities in secure and peaceful surroundings, as well as retain a habitat for wildlife. That refuge is Westfield’s own Stanley Park. Originally situated on 25 acres on upper Western Ave., today the park encompasses almost 300 acres, and includes formal gardens, a landmark carillon tower, pavilions, playing fields, a colonial-era village, an ADA-compliant children’s playground, a 200-acre wildlife sanctuary, and a recently completed accessible trail through the Asian Garden.
The park’s 200-acre wildlife sanctuary has been GPS mapped by Westfield State University with trail markers and trail brochures that make the area more easily navigable. Often described as a “public estate,” Stanley Park welcomes guests from throughout the Pioneer Valley and beyond. The park hosts civic and cultural events, and in recent years, managing director Victoria Connor has made efforts to broaden, deepen, and diversify community participation by introducing a range of arts, educational, and recreational programming sponsored by the park or in collaboration with other organizations. Notable events are the Sunday Night Concerts, Garden and Nature Workshops, and the popular Friday morning Children’s Series. Having such a beautiful outdoor space in the city draws many Westfield organizations to host events at Stanley Park, including Westfield State University, the City of Westfield, the YMCA, the Westfield Athenaeum, the Boys and Girls Club, and others. Nonprofit organizations in the area use the grounds for fundraising and consciousness- raising events.
According to Connor, what makes Stanley Park special is that it is a free, private, nonprofit park. It is not supported by taxpayer dollars as most parks are. Connor said Stanley Park is the largest, free non-government park east of the Mississippi. “It’s unique,” Connor said. All programs are funded by donations, sponsorships or grants. “Donations help keep all the great programs offered available and the park free to everyone,” she added.
Connor said Stanley Park has a lineup of events planned for the 2025 season, starting with a Whimsical Fairy Walk on opening day, May 3 and May 4. This enchanting two- day event
What makes Stanley Park special is that it is a free, private, nonprofit park. It is not supported by taxpayer dollars as most parks are.
celebrates nature and creativity, offering fun for all ages. The monthly Carillon Concerts will return beginning on Mother’s Day, May 11. The season will also feature six guided park tours, garden and nature workshops, which include bird walks and gardening tips from the Stanley Park greenhouse staff. Several events with a focus on health are planned, including Zumba, Tai Chi, Chakra Dance, and yoga classes, walks around the park, and sound bath meditations.
Stanley Park hosts private events as well – there are four pavilions that can be rented for birthday parties, baby showers, and corporate meetings. The park is a beautiful setting for weddings, with endless photo opportunities. Ceremonies can be held at one of the park’s several scenic spots with receptions at the Beveridge Pavilion, which includes a stateof-the-art kitchen. For a more rustic look, there is the Pavilion Annex. The recreation field is also available to rent for sporting events.
There are so many unique features about Stanley Park, Connor said. In particular, the Frank Stanley Beveridge Wildlife Sanctuary with miles of trails for a pleasant hike through peaceful woods and along the Little River. Visit the Stanley Park website for an interactive map to view all the trails and points of interest along the way. A complete list of events and other park information is on the website as well. “Every day I am inspired by the park’s natural beauty and the joy it brings to our visitors. It is incredibly rewarding to see families, friends, and individuals connect with nature and create lasting memories here,” Connor said.
events
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
MARCH 29TH
Let's Get Growing
South Middle School - 30 W.Silver St. Westfield | 9:00 AM
Featuring 10 Classes Designed to Educate and Empower the Home Gardener. Making Your Garden Edible - Native Plants - Updating an Old Garden - Gardening in Shades of Shade - Healthy Lawns and Low Maintenance Alternatives - Vase Worthy Gardening and more! visit wmmga.org for info/registration
MARCH 29TH
Opening Day at the ZOO
Zoo in Forest Park - Sumner Ave. Springfield | 10:00 AM
It's been a long winter, and your animal friends here at The Zoo are so excited to have you back! Join us for Opening Day on Saturday, March 29 from 10-4, featuring animal encounters, keeper talks and a scavenger hunt with a chance to win a Family Plus Membership for the 2025 season. Last admission is at 3:30
MARCH 29TH
Cousins Maine Lobster
Bright Ideas Brewing - 109 Apremont Way. Westfield | 12:00 PM
Cousins Maine Lobster is world famous, and we are excited to announce that they’ll be with us bringing the Maine lobster experience to our brewery Saturday, March 29th! Cousins Maine Lobster features wild-caught Maine lobster sourced from small communities nestled along the coast of Maine. Served with care and attention by knowledgeable staff with their signature Downeast Maine Hospitality
APRIL 3RD
Legends of the Westfield River Races
Stanton Hall - 93 Main St. Huntington | 6:30 PM
It's the 70th birthday of the country's oldest whitewater races and we will celebrate with a lively event based on historic photos. We will be taking a dive into the archives of the race followed by interviews with legends from the seven decades of the race. Country Journal Correspondent Kathryn Koegel will lead the talk. $10 suggested door donation.
APRIL 12TH
The Piper Hopkins Band
Southwick Meeting House - 222 College Hwy. Southwick | 7:00 PM
Join us for an evening of music, community, and giving back as The Piper Hopkins Band performs live at the historic Southwick Meeting House. Admission is free, but donations are kindly requested to benefit the Southwick Civic Fund. Enjoy a cash bar and limited seating, all while supporting a great cause. Don't miss out on this fantastic winter event!
APRIL 14TH
BINGO at WOW
105 Elm St - Westfield | 6:00 PM
$10 for first card that plays 11 games. $5 for each additional card. We have both reusable cards and dabber cards. We also have water, soda, and snacks for sale at only $1 each item. Children who can sit and have some bingo fun are welcome please note, children cannot win cash prizes, but their adults can.
FAMILY TIME is the Best Investment
EAT DINNER TOGETHER AS A FAMILY.
This meaningful time around the table is where connections happen. Let everyone share good moments from the day or something they struggled with. Create a jar of conversation starters, exchange giggles and cook up something delicious.
CREATE SURPRISES
Everyone likes to feel special – and surprised. The littlest things make the biggest impact: A backyard picnic; a sleepover in an indoor fort; an after-school ice cream treat; a bathroom spa day.
CREATE FAMILY TRADITIONS
Build weekly or monthly traditions – movie nights with popcorn, board game marathons, a gratitude jar, evening bike rides, living room dance parties,
even a family book club to discover old favorites and new reads.
EXPRESS LOVE AND GRATITUDE
In busy seasons, it’s easy to forget to let a loved one feel appreciated and thought of. Tuck a hand-written note in a lunch box or give an unexpected hug; spend time sharing what you’re thankful for about them.
KEEP GENERATIONS LINKED
Consider Sunday meals with grandparents or weekly phone calls if distance separates. Invite them to share their childhood stories and treasured memories. Start a yearly family scrapbook filled with favorite photographs and vacation souvenirs.
ENJOY UP TO A $300 ACCOUNT BONUS
*Special offer is for opening a new Get Real Checking® account. Minimum balance to open Get Real Checking is $10. Bonuses are for new consumer checking account customers and limited to one account per tax owner. Tax owner must be at least 16 years old at the time of account opening to qualify for the bonus. Customers who have previously received a bonus on a checking account from the bank are not eligible. Bonus payment may be 1099 reportable. Account must be in good standing and have a positive balance at the time the bonus is paid. May not be combined with other promotional offers. This is a limited time offer and subject to change without notice.
$150 promotional offer is for enrolling in eStatements and having a minimum of $1,000 in aggregate direct deposits posted to the account OR enrolling in eStatements and conducting a minimum of 25 point of sale (POS) debit card transactions of $10 or more posted to the account within the first 90 days of account opening. The bonus will be credited to the account by the last day of the statement cycle following the 90th day the account was opened. $150 loyalty bonus will be paid after the account has been open for 12 months if the account is still enrolled in eStatements and has an active recurring direct deposit posted to the account within the last statement cycle OR if the account is still enrolled in eStatements
Please help people affected by the 2025 California Wildfires by scanning the QR code, calling 1-800-RED CROSS (800-733-2767) or texting the word CAWILDFIRES to 90999 to make a donation.
