A Toast to the Men...
MAN UP ! Something we older guys have heard since childhood, and I'm glad we did. The phrase may mean a lot of different things to different people, so let's unpack that, shall we. To me, when I was a child, hearing my father tell me to "man up" usually meant I was crying about a skinned knee or something minor. It wasn't meant to belittle me, it was meant to get me to think about how I was reacting, and if that reaction was proper for the situation I was in. Now that I am a father, for me to "man up" means to be the best dad I can be for my little girls. It means having the answers when they are needed, keeping a level head when things get tough, and showing my girls that manning up isn't just for the boys.
Being a man is not just something that happens at birth, it's a privilege. As men, we are tasked with many things, from building our cities, our businesses, and our relations. We have a lot on our plates. This issue will focus on some of the men in our local community who have built themselves up, as well as others around them. Auto maintenance, home buying, and creative business solutions are just a few things we will cover inside this months "Gentlemen's Issue."
From the Mayor all the way to the man driving the recycling truck, I want to say a personal thank you to all the men who keep getting it done day by day. I hope you all enjoy reading this issue as much as we enjoyed putting it together for you. And as always, look through our ads, and go visit some of the men and women keeping it local!
Cheers,
PUBLISHER
June 2025 Visit our Instagram
Wade Rivest | wade.rivest@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Virginia Maldonado, Amanda Waterfield, Jennifer Giffune RDN
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
j81 Studios - C.Pinney Photography
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders
AD DESIGNER Josh Govero
LAYOUT DESIGNER Emily Lisenbee
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Marina Campbell
Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com/franchise.
Proverbs 3:5-6
Spring Clean Your Eating Habits
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1: Westfield State Cheer Team with a 2nd place finish at nationals 2: "Don Jovi" rockin the house at 52 Sumner 3: Witalisz & Associates Real Estate held a "Homeowners Resource Expo" 4: Local powerhouses Basia of Vivid and Stanley Starfire team up with Artworks Westfield 5: Fly Lugu introducing their newest certified flight instructor 6: Westfield River Race contestants having fun at another successful event. 7: WG&E crew members are always there to support local businesses and events.
WITALISZ
business monthly
Minuteman Pest stands the test of time
Since 1976, Minuteman Pest Control has been keeping homes and properties pest free in the Western Mass area. The DeBettencourt family has taken great pride in using the safest, most up to date methods on the market. When it comes to staying pest free, there is nobody better!
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Ponders Hollow & Mill River Slab works
For four generations, the Lashway family at Ponders Hollow has provided top notch service and the area's best custom wood flooring, sawmill services, and live edge wood. Custom tables, countertops and more, all right here in our back yard.
Kitchens Direct takes the stress out of design
Using 3D rendering, along with top-of-the-line brands, Kitchens Direct in Westfield is the go-to for remodeling your kitchen. Family owned and operated, the Metiviers pay extra close attention to detail and quality. Scan to read more
Tucker's: always cooking up quality
Chef Mike Anderson and the team at Tucker's provide an amazing dining experience. From daily dinner and drinks to full-size banquets, Tucker's is a local gem you must go and see.
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Blackbird Home Interiors does it all
When it comes to your home interior, you want to work with one source that covers it all. Sarah and Joe of Blackbird are your one stop shop for design, demolition, and installation of your dream kitchen, living room, or dining area. Have them re-invent your space today!
Touch of Color Painting brings homes to life
Bored with your living space? Whether it's interior or exterior, Touch of Color Painting can revitalize your space with their high-quality approach, and superior paint products. Bring life back to your home or business with a Touch of Color.
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GLP-1 AGONISTS
ARE THEY WORTH ALL THE HYPE FOR WEIGHT LOSS?
ARTICLE BY JENNIFER GIFFUNE, RDN
GLP-1 stands for glucagon-like peptide-1 hormone that impacts blood sugar & weight. It manages blood sugar by boosting insulin. It controls appetite by slowing down digestion.
GLP-1 agonists are medications that have been shown to treat blood sugar and promote weight loss. In 2014, The FDA approved Saxenda was approved for weight loss. In 2023, Zepbound was approved for weight loss.
GLP-1 agonists are injectable medication. These are the GLP-1 agonists you can have
prescribed: Trulicity (Dulaglutide) - Bydureon, Bydureon BCise, Byetta (Exenatide extended-release) - Victoza, Saxenda (Liraglutide) - Adlyxin (Lixisenatide) - Ozempic, Rybelsus, Wegovy (Semaglutide) - Mounjaro, Zepbound (Tirzepatide)
The FDA currently approves GLP-1 agonists for weight loss if you have obesity with a BMI >30. You may also take GLP-1 agonists with a BMI 27- 29.9 + other health issues. On average, people lose 15% of starting body weight when taking GLP-1 agonists.
GLP-1 agonists help quiet “Food noise” in the brain. Additionally, there are many positive health benefits such as lowering blood pressure and lipids, decreasing risk of heart and kidney disease, slowing the progression of diabetic neuropathy, and improving fatty liver. Women having trouble becoming pregnant have seen this situation improve.
GLP-1 agonists have side effects. The most common are lower appetite, nausea, vomiting, dehydration, constipation, diarrhea, redness and itchiness at the injection site, and malnutrition. Less common side effects are low blood sugar, dizziness, gastroparesis, bowel obstruction, gallstones, tachycardia, infection, and headache. There are severe but uncommon side effects such as allergic reaction, pancreatitis, thyroid cancer, acute kidney injury, multiple endocrine neoplasia, stomach paralysis, and worsening diabetes-related retinopathy.
Lifestyle is a vital part of the treatment of obesity. Make healthy food choices such as lean protein, heart-healthy fat, high fiber whole grains, plenty of non-starchy veggies, low fat dairy, adequate hydration and portion control. Skipping meals and skimping on servings is not recommended; if needed, have smaller portions.
Insurance may cover the cost of GLP-1 agonist. Each plan has different criteria to meet to get coverage. Most require it to be a
"Skipping meals and skimping on servings is not recommended, if needed have smaller portions."
medical necessity. Check your plan for the guidelines. If paying out of pocket, the cost ranges from $165 – 2000/month.
If you stop taking GLP-1 agonists 2/3 of the weight you lost can be gained back within one year. Regardless of whether you take the medication or not, healthy food choice and consistent physical activity are vital to keeping you healthy. For more information, contact Jennifer. She sees clients in-person or by phone or video. To make an appointment call (413) 579 – 5450 or by email at jen@jenthedietitian.com
DUANE DESILETS
A Steady Hand in an Ever-Changing Market
ARTICLE BY WADE RIVEST | PHOTOGRAPHY BY ELLE BACON
Since 2006, local real estate agent Duane Desilets has been a trusted name in home buying and selling. In a market that’s always evolving, Duane has remained a consistent force—thanks to his experience, calmness under pressure, and a genuine commitment to helping people.
Prior to real estate, Duane served from 1999 to 2005 as an Airman right here at the 104th Fighter Wing. As part of the base's fire and crash rescue team, he learned how to stay focused in high-stress situations, assess complex challenges quickly, and act decisively when it matters most. Those same skills serve him well today—whether he’s navigating negotiations, solving last-minute issues, or guiding clients through tough decisions, Duane brings clarity and calm to every transaction.
When asked what drives him in real estate, Duane said:
“Helping people find the right home is about more than square footage and property lines, it’s about helping them step into the next chapter of their lives. My 'why' is simple: I love being part of that moment when everything clicks. Whether it’s a first-time buyer or a family upsizing to make room for new memories, it’s incredibly rewarding to guide people through one of the biggest decisions of their lives.”
Duane specializes in residential real estate, working with everyone from first-time buyers to growing families and empty nesters. He also partners with investors, understanding the need for a results-driven approach when it comes to multi-family and income-producing properties. No matter the goal, Duane stays focused on what matters most—his clients.
If you’re thinking about buying or selling a home, or exploring real estate as an investment, Duane Desilets of eXp Realty is someone you’ll want on your side.
Reach out at (413) 454-7802 or DuaneDesilets@gmail.com—you’ll be glad you did.
Choosing the right real estate agent is crucial. Duane will guide you every step of the way, negotiate on your behalf, and help avoid costly mistakes.
j81 Studios
THE PERFECT PICTURE - WITH A KICK
ARTICLE BY WADE RIVEST | PHOTOGRAPHY BY J81 STUDIOS
Think back to when you were a child; can you pinpoint what led you to where you are today? For local photographer Jon Jones, it was when his grandfather introduced him to Photoshop, allowing him to get in touch with his creative side. From there, Jon took that inspirational nudge to design school, and then into the world of advertising. For the next two decades, Jones was able to hone his skills in the business world, leading national brand campaigns as a designer, art director, and at times, photographer. Having a camera in hand for most of his time, this made the decision to start j81 Studios an almost “no-brainer” in 2021, after the company he was with was acquired by a larger corporation.
Keeping up with the times, while understanding the complexities and necessity for the “old school” is something that helps Jon stay at the forefront of the photography world. When asked about
his use of modern tech, Jon said: “Tech is a tool, not a crutch. I shoot like I’m using film – carefully and intentionally. Then I finish with the precision that only modern tools can deliver. It’s about control from click to delivery.”
j81Studios is very well known for being able to provide top notch, quality work no matter what style or need you and your business may have. Having that versatility allows Jon to make j81 a one-stop-shop. From head shots to product photography, candid photos and behind the scenes work, what Jon really focuses on is clarity. Whether you’re a marketing team, a solo consultant, or giant corporate office, j81 Studios will make sure your visuals say “professional” before you even have to speak. Jon says, “If your business needs to look sharp, credible and trustworthy, that’s where I come in.”
Jon Jones - founder, j81 Studios
Running j81 Studios has been a true homerun for Jon. When asked if he would ever want to go back to an office, 9-5 style life, Jon had a quick, blunt answer. “Not a chance!” he said. “I walk across a giant mat at my studio that reads ‘Burn the Ships.’ Retreat isn’t on the table.” - Now THAT is the type of drive and focus that I want to put the best shots of my business out there, not sure about you! As you look through the shots in this article, as well as articles past, you can see the passion and love for the craft in each and every shot. We here, at Westfield City Lifestyle can tell you that j81 Studios is worth every penny, as our publication would not look as great as it does without Jon.
To book j81 Studios to make you and your business look your best, email Jon at: jjones@j81studios.com
"A picture is worth 1,000 words" is an understatement when it comes to GOOD photography. When you need the best look for you and your business, j81 Studios can cover all those bases and more. With a calculated, deliberate approach, your photos can speak to the professionalism you strive to put forward to even the pickiest of customers.
Captions on opposite page, starting from the top left and going left to right:
Headshots
On-site photos The best look for your business
Al's TIRE
A 1932 Legacy Gets a Local Tune-Up
ARTICLE BY VIRGINIA MALDONADO PHOTOGRAPHY BY C.PINNEY PHOTOGRAPHY
Westfield’s own Al’s Tire has been keeping vehicles roadready for over 93 years, and now, the shop enters a new era with owner Tim Judd at the helm. A lifelong Western Mass resident with family ties to Southampton and deep roots across the region, Tim took ownership in 2023 with a clear vision: preserve the legacy, modernize the experience, and prioritize relationships over transactions.
owner Tim Judd
Why keep the name? “Al’s Tire is a brand people know and trust,” Judd explains. “This shop has been part of the community for generations.” But this isn’t just a tire shop — it’s a full-service auto repair center, not to be confused with auto body work. Al’s specializes in the kind of mechanical services that keep cars running: brake replacements, oil changes, suspension work, preventative maintenance, and even dealership-level diagnostics.
In fact, Judd’s background in performance repair gives the shop a major edge. Al’s Tire is one of the only local shops equipped to handle complex services like emissions repair, electrical diagnostics, and automotive HVAC.
But what really sets Al’s Tire apart is its people-first approach. Judd and his team build longterm relationships, illuminating the connection between a customer and their car. Proper maintenance helps you manage the life of your car and how costly it is to upkeep it.
Customers will notice some new touches under Judd’s leadership: a cleaner, more modern curb appeal including a welcoming waiting room and more reliable tire brands. Customers appreciate the new signage, logo, and outside maintenance. The warm, no-pressure vibe remains the same.
Al’s tire technicians are highly skilled and handle tires from ATVs, lawnmowers, tractors, and commercial trucks. The shop also supports fleet service for municipal departments and local businesses, helping keep work vehicles on the road and minimizing costly downtime for business owners.
Al’s Tire also gives back, offering discounts to military members and first responders. With plans for a 6,000 sqft addition in the works, this hometown staple is gearing up for even more ways to serve. Customers can visit the website to schedule services, make inquiries, and purchase tires.
Honest, high-tech, and hometown proud — that’s the Al’s Tire experience.
Al’s Tire & Auto Service 918 Southampton Rd, Westfield, MA Facebook.com/alstireandauto (413) 562-3391
experienced technicians
SOUTHWICK INSURANCE
Protecting What Matters Most
Owner, Dan Hess
ARTICLE BY AMANDA WATERFIELD
PHOTOGRAPHY BY C.PINNEY PHOTOGRAPHY
Southwick Insurance’s Daniel Hess has seen it all in his 40-plus years in the insurance industry. After a brief stint as a middle school teacher, Dan quickly found that the insurance industry was a great fit, and within three years of starting in the field, he founded the agency that has been his 9 to 5 home for 38 years.
Dan’s competitive drive has kept him engaged over the years. “Sales is basically competition – we’ve always been competitive for our clients.” Providing a full-service agency where clients can sit face-to-face with their agent sets Southwick Insurance apart from the online providers. But it’s in the toughest moments that the personal touch truly makes the difference for Dan’s clients. He estimates that he’s been to approximately 100 house fires and has been there when the client is standing beside a ruined property in need of housing and help. “We’re there for the client then when they have nothing – we provide money right away and get them set up for temporary housing.”
Dan sees insurance as a complicated product – one that requires expertise for best coverage. “All the policies are written by attorneys – it’s like going to court without a lawyer—I wouldn’t advise that,” notes Dan. Oftentimes, people will go online and try to buy their own policies, only to find that the online companies don’t give sufficient coverage. “It’s about service and professionalism with pros who do it every day,” he says. “You’ll save in the long run.”
Southwick Insurance’s clients receive a yearly update on coverages to keep up with homes and auto prices. “It’s important to make sure that you’re with an agency that can shop for you,” says Dan. “You don’t want to be with an agency that has one or two lines –we have 12 companies. We can shop and get the best rates and adequate coverage.”
Southwick Insurance covers approximately 9,000 clients, providing service in the personal lines agent: home automotive, umbrella, and boat coverages are where the agency specializes. Southwick Insurance serves Ukrainian, Russian, and Spanish speaking clients. It’s a family business, with Dan’s daughter, Cyrena, and son, Tyler, helping out. “My children are following in my footsteps,” says Dan. “We’re here to stay.”
Southwick Insurance is located at 562 College Highway in Southwick. Call Dan at (413) 569-3522.
Our Favorite Bourbons
The “Best Bourbon” Is Truly Up To The Individual and Occasion
ARTICLE
BY ANTHONY ADAMS
We were recently asked to suggest the Best Bourbon that was affordable and as I reflected on my list of favorites, providing a single answer wasn’t as straightforward as it appeared. Think of it like this. If we asked 100 people in our community what their favorite restaurant is—the answers would be varied based on the individual’s personal palate or even the moment you asked them in!
Here is our list of favorites that will have you covered at any price point and occasion.
BLANTON’S SINGLE BARREL BOURBON
Blanton’s is recognizable on sight due to the round bottle with a brass horse and jockey for a stopper. Taken from the center-cut or middle sections of the famous Warehouse H. The taste profile is sweet, with notes of citrus and oak. The creamy vanilla nose is teased with caramel and butterscotch, all underscored by familiar baking spices such as clove, nutmeg, or cinnamon.
— BlantonsBourbon.com
BASIL HAYDEN’S RYE BOURBON –AGED 10 YEARS
In a sea of cask-strength offerings, Basil Hayden’s stays true to its 80 proof roots. The high rye content of its mash bill charges the nose and palate with notes of caraway and spice, while 10 years in the barrel have added leather and an attractive nuttiness. If you aren’t looking for high proof, this is a remarkable bourbon.
— BasilHaydens.com
PINHOOK ‘BOURBON WAR’ VERTICAL SERIES 5 YEARS
Pinhook pulls 150 barrels from a special lot to create this straight bourbon whiskey with a lively nose of butterscotch,
cinnamon stick, licorice, and vanilla. These aromas set the stage for a robust palate of cherry, chocolate, toasted brown sugar, and chicory. With the additional 5th year of age, what was tropical fruit transitions to darker fruit flavors and what was brighter candy is now rich and caramelized; hints of smoke now start to appear for the first time.
— PinhookBourbon.com
EAGLE RARE 10 YEAR
Eagle Rare 10 Year lives somewhat in the shadow of its 17-yearold elder sibling, but don’t let that shy you away. This is a sweet and mellow bourbon with definite signs of maturity and its orange peel and toffee aromas are a little shy, but the palate serves sturdy sweet and spice notes and a toasty finish.
— EagleRare.com
OLD FORESTER 86 PROOF
While others in Old Forester’s impressive lineup claim the hearts of bourbon geeks (such as the 1920 Prohibition Style), this bottle stands head and shoulders above everything at this proof and price point. It oozes aromatic charm and follows with a palate that is lithe but in no way lacking flavor.
— OldForester.com
MCAFEE’S BENCHMARK OLD NO. 8
Sometimes you find a $20 laying around or just need a good mixing bourbon. Benchmark Old No. 8 is made at the same distillery as Blanton’s and the ever-coveted Pappy Van Winkle! The nose bears caramel notes with a delicate stone-fruit backdrop. A robust and sturdy palate with some fine leather notes mingling with dry tobacco, a touch of oak, and a hint of dried cherries. The finish is smooth and calming.
— BuffaloTraceDistillery.com
SO YOU WANT TO BE A COWBOY
Favorably referred to as the “Last Best Place” and the “Treasure State,” Montana has captured the hearts of cinematic cowboys like Taylor Sheridan and Harrison Ford and inspired the television series, “Yellowstone” and its prequels, “1883” and “1923.” Though fictional, they’ve reminded America of its deeply-rooted spirit for adventure and the simple yet rugged way of life that we all crave. Whether its the backdrop of jagged, snowcapped peaks or the endless golden pastures that are peppered with livestock, this Rocky Mountain soil is a breeding ground for dreamers and doers, and the people who call it home are no strangers to the ritual of ranch life.
So, you want to be a cowboy? Slipping on some leather and having a little hide in your hat are good ways to start, but visiting a resort that brings the best of this life to the forefront, while also embracing modern luxury, is the experience of a lifetime. Personalization is key—a divine selection of cuisine for the foodies, awe-inspiring activities for the adrenaline seekers, and world-class lodging that tickles every fancy from stargazing glamping, to timber-style family dwellings, to the uniquely designed green “o hauses” that invite the outside world in.
WHAT TO DO
To change your attitude, you need a change in altitude. Gain some speed or turn up the adrenaline level with ATV tours, electric biking, mountain biking, go-karts, paintball, rappelling down Lookout Rock or whitewater rafting down the Blackfoot River. Indulge in the western art of living with archery, fly-fishing, hiking or sporting clays. For those who want to immerse themselves in the language of horses, there are horse-related adventures such as lessons, grooming or feeding, horse-whispering workshops or organized trails rides. Riders can also enjoy cattle drives that bring you back to yesteryear—driving a herd of cattle across the famed landscape—and bear witness to mustang gentling, where the Equestrian Manager communicates with a wild horse through body language and tone of voice.
DISCOVER THE WHIMSY OF THE WEST AT PAWS UP MONTANA
HOW TO GET HERE
Airport: Missoula Montana Airport (MSO) Airport transfers from Missoula are complimentary for guests and all luxury home and Green O accommodations come with a Lexus luxury SUV for transportation use on property.
DRINK & DINE
Montana’s best kept secret? Our hideaway chefs, making waves from the Montana wilderness. Chef Brandon Cunningham, Executive Chef at the Green O, is a James Beard Award finalist whose creations at the Social Haus are highly curated through an 8-course tasting menu. Other highly trained and talented chefs like Chef Brett Edlund, Chef Ben Scott, Executive Pastry Chef Krystle Swenson, and Sunny Jin, the General Manager of Food and Beverage, are part of the intricate patchwork of the culinary experience at Pomp, Trough, Shed, Camp and the notable Chuck Wagon—a summertime treat where guests can ride a hay wagon along the banks of the Blackfoot River for an Old West-inspired chuck wagon dinner.
CHELSEA LYN AGRO PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
ENJOY UP TO A $300 ACCOUNT BONUS
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