Holidays & Giving
CELEBRATING LIFE'S HAPPY MOMENTS
Giving, the Holiday Spirit, and all that Jazz...
Ahhhh the Holidays. Whether you celebrate Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, Yom Kippur, or any of the other Holidays that I may be less familiar with, the Holiday season is what you make of it. Using this time to reflect on how you want to live your life, and how you can positively impact those around you is universal. Since having kids, the Christmas Season is stressful, fun, exciting, and rewarding. For my family, we focus on the little things... the smiles, the giving, the overall cheer to close out the year. I am especially proud of how my children have handled Christmas. Like any child, they LOVE getting gifts, but what makes me smile is the appreciation in their faces. They don't just rip one gift, toss it, and on to the next. The glow in their eyes, and the true appreciation is what makes it all worthwhile for my wife and I. They also enjoy giving. We often donate toys, clothes, and whatever else we can. Sometimes the girls miss old toys, but the feeling of caring for others is something they pride themselves on, and that is really what it's all about for us.
This holiday season, we want to highlight a few local “givers.” From long standing business owners who provide great holiday treats, to a young lady taking her personal struggle and using it to help other kids, this issue will get your feelings moving. We also want to take a moment to show you our very own “Giving Campaign.” We at City Lifestyle have a long history of donating to those in need around the Holiday season, and we need your help... take a peek inside and be part of something bigger than all of us.
Enjoy the final issue of 2024, and as always THANK YOU for reading and supporting our advertisers! Let our ad partners know you saw them in here, reach out to the company with your favorite ads, and keep our community amazing! Cheers,
WADE RIVEST, PUBLISHER @WESTFIELD_CITYLIFESTYLE
December 2024
PUBLISHER
Wade Rivest | wade.rivest@citylifestyle.com
PUBLICATION DIRECTOR
Crystal Childs | crystal.childs@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Amanda Waterfield, Maureen Sullivan, Virginia Maldonado, Madeline LeBlanc
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER
C.Pinney Photography
Corporate Team
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Branden Cooper
LAYOUT DESIGNER Emily Lisenbee
Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com/franchise.
DECEMBER 2024
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1: Marvin reading Westfield City Lifestyle at Congamond Coffee & Cafe 2: Dan McKellick, Wade Rivest and Kate Hynds Riley meet at local BNI chapter 3: Patricia-Lee Baskin of Caring Solutions feeling the love from her team. 4: Westfield and Easthampton Feed cleaning up nicely for a night on the town. 5: Bank ESB supporting the Power of Horses 5k at Ashley Reservoir 6: Bella J's would like you to meet new stylist, Genesis. Book with her today. 7: It's not too late to get that new roof, with Nextgen Roofing
Want to be seen in the magazine?
BANK ESB
BELLA J'S SALON
RENE GAUTHIER
PAM SCLAFANI
Making Spirits
JOIN OUR MISSION TO SPREAD WARMTH AND COMPASSION BY NOMINATING SOMEONE WHO DESERVES A CHRISTMAS BLESSING
“We believe in giving back and serving the communities where we live in a real and tangible way.”
As the Christmas season approaches, we’re reminded of the power of community and kindness. This year, through City Lifestyle’s nonprofit, The Kingdom Building Foundation, we will help people who may be struggling quietly without the support they need. But we need your help to find them.
Over the past three years, this campaign has grown into something truly beautiful, touching the lives of more than 150 families nationwide last year alone. Each year, we’ve seen firsthand how generosity can bring relief, hope, and a renewed sense of faith in others.
One person we had the opportunity to help was an 11-year-old boy diagnosed with a rare eye cancer. After he had to undergo chemotherapy and surgery to remove his eye, his doctors recommended a prosthetic one, but insurance wouldn’t cover the cost, calling it “cosmetic.” When we heard his story, we knew we had to help. Because of this campaign, he got his prosthetic eye and a piece of his childhood back with it.
Another was a wife and mother of two who fought a yearlong health battle and was diagnosed with a brain tumor. Just days before Christmas, she underwent surgery but passed away due to complications. Before her surgery, she received one of our cards and, in tears, told us this gift gave her some peace, knowing her family would have help in the difficult times ahead. It wasn’t just about the financial support but knowing that someone cared.
These stories remind us why this campaign is so meaningful. It’s not just
about writing checks; it’s about telling people they aren’t forgotten and that someone is there to lend a hand. It’s about giving families a moment of relief when the world feels unbearable.
“We believe in giving back and serving the communities where we live in a real and tangible way,” says Steven Schowengerdt, CEO and founder of City Lifestyle. “This Giving Campaign is about personally impacting the lives of people we know with an unexpected check in the mail just to say that someone thought of them this holiday season.”
Together with Matthew Perry, President, Steven adds that the gratitude from recipients was overwhelming, affirming this tradition’s importance. “We believe God has blessed our company with success,” Matthew adds, “so we want to be a blessing to others.”
We know many more people could use a little help this Christmas, and that’s where you come in. Do you know someone who could use a blessing? We want to hear about them.
To nominate someone, scan the QR code or follow @CityLifestyle on Instagram, where you’ll find the form in our bio. Nominations are open from November 27 to December 10, 2024. Let’s bring hope to those who need it most.
The City Lifestyle Giving Campaign is completely confidential. No identities will be revealed or publicized. All entries will be read, and selections and the amount given to each recipient will be based on the severity of the need. For more information, visit KingdomBuildingFoundation.com
THE MOST MAGICAL TIME of the Year
CELEBRATING THE HOLIDAYS WITH THE BOYS AND GIRLS CLUB
ARTICLE BY AMANDA WATERFIELD | PHOTOGRAPHY BY BOYS & GIRLS CLUB
“We are blessed to have a community that’s engaging as well – we get calls from entities who have donations to make, such as a bunch of coats.”
Holiday celebrations can bring excitement and joy to little ones, but the season of celebration can also be difficult for families who need a little extra support. That’s where the Boys and Girls Club of Greater Westfield comes in.
Year-round, the Club provides activities and resources that are constantly changing to meet the needs of the children. When the holidays roll around, those engagements are themed to reflect the various holidays celebrated by the Club’s families. Program and Facilities Director AJ Kriha and Licensed Childcare Director Charisse Balicki share some of the ways the Club makes the holidays special for the families it serves.
Within the Club’s building, children from preschool through high school age are involved in musical celebrations, art projects, games, and service projects. One event that has been held for the past several years is the “Christmakwanzaakah Concert” that celebrates different cultures. This performance incorporates various faiths and lets all the Club’s members feel included.
Some of the older Club kids are showing an interest in community service, says AJ, and this is the time of year when they get to explore giving back. The high school-aged Keystone Club has put on a Veterans’ Breakfast, for example. The spirit of creative ideas flow throughout the club in all staffing areas, according to AJ, noting that one of the transportation staffers came up with the suggestion of putting families on one
of the Club busses to go view holiday lights –allowing parents to take part without having to play the role of driver.
The Westfield community is instrumental in helping Club staff provide for those families who may not have the resources to provide gifts. “We know our families; we’re connected. We know when our families are going through tough times,” says AJ.
“We are blessed to have a community that’s engaging as well – we get calls from entities who have donations to make, such as a bunch of coats. We have a family that does a shoe drive –looking to provide specific footwear based on needs for style and size. Those donations are very generous,” says Charisse.
Individuals, organizations such as the Kiwanis Club, and other agencies provide help to families in need. A donor may want to support a child of a specific age, gender, or family. Regardless of the donation, these contributions are always anonymous.
To provide support, you can call the club and speak with Chief Operating Officer Kellie Brown, who will make the connection.
Sometimes, based on grant money, the Club provides family meals. Last year the Club provided Christmas hams with all the fixings. “We have board members who donate hams and we get those out to families,” says AJ.
If you would like to help a Club kid or their family this year, reach out at 413-562-2301 to find out how you can contribute.
- Licensed Childcare Director Charisse Balicki
Jasmine’s Journey
STANDING TALL UNDER THE WEIGHT OF SCOLIOSIS
ARTICLE BY VIRGINIA MALDONADO
PHOTOGRAPHY BY C.PINNEY PHOTOGRAPHY
9 years old. Just like the number itself and the letter ‘J’ found in her family name, Jasmine Judd’s spine curled into a curvature. A routine checkup revealed the condition that would mark the start of a bumpy journey filled with highs, lows, and Higgy Bears in between.
the "J" Crew
With courage, heart, and a cute teddy bear in hand, Jasmine stands tall and smiles at the forefront of her future as a champion against scoliosis. She leans on family members, fondly known as the “J-Crew” (her twin Jaci, sister Jemma, plus parents Jacqueline and Jake), as a foundation of love and support.
When Jacqueline, Jasmine’s mom, found an online support group for families dealing with scoliosis, they were introduced to Higgy Bears — a non-profit organization that brings comfort to kids with the condition. Higgy Bears’ tagline, “Bent Not Broken,” reflects the unique character and strength of children like Jasmine. The bears are customizable, allowing kids to choose between a hard or soft brace and personalize it with their dream design. From a rainbow of colors and textured patterns to animal prints and cartoon drawings, the options are as limitless as the kids’ imaginations. Higgy Bears remind children that they are never alone on their journey. Inspired to share the fuzzy feeling from her furry friends, Jasmine volunteered as an ambassador to help raise awareness and funds for the cause.
She is excited to spread the word to others who are bearing the same weight. “Stay strong and be happy,” Jasmine cheers as she soars on her tire swing. Golden rays of sun shine down on her face and illuminate the sparkles on her butterfly brace, their wings seemingly take her higher.
Through her growing YouTube channel, Jasmine shares content to inspire her peers to keep smiling and stay strong. Each donor to her cause receives a special shoutout from Jasmine herself in videos filled with gratitude and hope.
Jasmine’s fundraising efforts are already making an impact. She is raising donations starting at $10.00 through
Cash App, PayPal, and traditional methods like cash and checks. Every contribution helps support scoliosis research and awareness initiatives, ensuring that no child has to walk this road alone.
You can follow Jasmine’s inspiring journey and learn more about how to support her cause by reaching out on Facebook. Together, we can put the “us” back in scoliosis!
The Judd Family Jasmine, Jacqueline, Jake, Jaci, & Jemma
For more information about Jasmine’s Journey, please contact Jacqueline Judd at (413)265-8953.
Higgy Bears’ tagline, “Bent Not Broken,” reflects the unique character and strength of children like Jasmine.
ARTICLE BY MAUREEN SULLIVAN | PHOTOGRAPHY BY C.PINNEY PHOTOGRAPHY
Candle Pilgrim
WHERE HOLIDAY CHEER MEETS ENTERTAINING ESSENTIALS
Festive is the one word that could describe the atmosphere at Pilgrim Candle during this time of year. From seasonal decorations and entertaining essentials to hostess gifts, corporate gifts and presents for almost anyone on your list, you’ll find a little of everything.
The spirit of the season is everywhere, so it’s easy to find decorations to give your home a holiday glow, whether you want to add something whimsical or traditional to your décor. Owner Donna Shibley has curated a selection of merchandise that includes wreaths, candle rings, table runners, and garlands for the fireplace mantel.
Explore the store and you’ll find something new around every corner. There are a variety of decorative trees of all shapes and sizes, and the lighted houses offer an inviting holiday glow to any room in the house. One of my favorite items is the entryway table light that looks like a big Christmas ornament. It makes its own unique statement and it’s a great conversation piece. I love the idea of getting the conversation started by asking party guests about their favorite ornament.
The wooden sweater deer are adorable accent pieces, and the pretty snowflake trivets can be used during the holiday season and throughout the winter for entertaining or dinners at home with the family.
Now that we have decorations covered, let’s talk about holiday entertaining. It’s not an exaggeration to say that you’ll find almost everything for a festive party but the cheese and the booze at Pilgrim Candle. The elegant Rustic Bakery crackers elevate a cheese board, speaking of which, Donna has selected a variety of boards and utensils for charcuterie.
Stuffed olives, balsamic oils, preserves and jams in various flavors from Laurel Hill, Halliday’s Spices and Dips, and local maple syrups are among the culinary offerings, along with Zite Zaytoon Extra Virgin Olive
Oil from Lebanon, which comes in a green and cream corduroy pouch, making it a perfect hostess gift.
Almost anything you’ll find at Pilgrim Candle can make a thoughtful hostess gift. The pottery olive oil decanters are a decorative way to store and pour olive oil and pair nicely with a bottle of olive oil.
Let’s not forget how it all started – with candles. There are red and green tapers for the table. Jar candles with scents such as balsam, Winter Woods, and cranberry, will fill your home with the scents of the season, and Pilgrim’s new Executive Collection of candles are a great corporate gift idea.
A visit to Pilgrim Candle will put you in the holiday spirit while elevating your gift-giving and entertaining.
Pilgrim Candle 36 Union Ave. Westfield, MA 413-562-2635 Pilgrimcandle.com
THE BEST WAY TO SPREAD CHRISTMAS CHEER IS A VIDEO FROM
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CASH & BARTER options available for local Western Massachusetts businesses.
Curated at the North Pole by Buddy the Elf
The Ultimate DIY Hot Cocoa Bar
A COZY CHRISTMAS TRADITION
ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY MADELINE LEBLANC
Last Christmas, the DIY Hot Cocoa Bar was the biggest hit at my house! We kept things simple with Swiss Miss Cocoa Mix as the base, but the real fun came with the toppings. Guests had a blast adding cotton candy, crushed peppermint, and festive marshmallow toppers like snowman peeps. For an extra treat, we even included hot cocoa mix on a stick, which made stirring a bit more exciting.
The adult crowd enjoyed a boozy twist by adding a splash of Peppermint RumChata, which gave their cocoa a little extra holiday cheer.
The Hot Cocoa Bar was such a hit that it’s now a holiday tradition in my family. There’s something magical about watching everyone create their own perfect cup of cocoa, with all their favorite flavors and toppings. It’s a cozy and festive addition that truly warms the heart (and hands) during Christmas gatherings!
-Eating through the Northeast one bite at a time
“Hello Food Reviews”
Holiday Entertaining Boards
The holidays are here and entertaining is in full swing. If you are looking for the perfect appetizer to easily feed a crowd these simple and beautiful boards are sure to please.
ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
Tips for creating the perfect board:
• Start with the larger items first and build around those. If you are using jars on the board, place those first.
• Be sure to have enough to fill the space. It is best to overfill so that the board doesn’t look sparse. Stack, stack and stack some more.
• Use a variety of colors and textures when choosing the foods you want to use. Pick cheese with color and patterns, fruits and veggies that come in a variety of textures and colors and a protein that can make a statement.
• Be sure to place similar colors in away from each other to help give symmetry.
Holiday Wreath Charcuterie Board
• Fig Jelly
• Honey
• Variety of Cheeses
• Salami or meat of choice
• Olives (provide a variety)
• Walnuts, Pecans, Pistachios and any favorite nut
• Grapes, berries, persimmon
• Crackers
Place the jars of sauces and olives on the board first. Next place the cheeses on opposing sides. Add meats and fruits next. Layer in crackers, nuts and seeds and fill in any spots with extra nuts. Use fresh rosemary or fresh greenery to add wreath accent in the center of the charcuterie board. Garnish with fresh cranberries.
events
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
DECEMBER 1ST
Springfield Reptile Expo (Show me Reptile Show)
Mass Mutual Center - 1277 Main St. Springfield | 9:00 AM
Calling all herpetology enthusiasts, critter lovers, and reptile aficionados, this event is your passport to a reptilian wonderland where you can not only admire these remarkable animals but also take home a scaly friend of your very own!
DECEMBER 3RD
Holiday Stroll & Lantern Lumanaria 2024
Downtown Mystic, CT | 5:00 PM
Mystic during the holidays is a delightful blend of tradition, community, and festive celebration, making it a perfect destination for experiencing the magic of the season.
Stroll the festive streets of Historic Downtown Mystic and listen to the carolers rejoice in the holiday spirit as Santa makes his way through the hustle and bustle!
Event Contact Aimee Harvey (860) 572-9578
DECEMBER 7TH
DIY Holiday Wreathmaking
The Mossy Apothecary - 285 College Hwy, Southampton | 11:00 AM
*Also Dec 8th at 4pm
Join us for a seasonally inspired crafting experience filled with wintry magic, rustic New England charm, + bountiful materials to choose from to create your own unique wreath!
visit: www.themossyapothecary.com for tickets and details.
DECEMBER 8TH
Holiday Market
Westfield River Brewing Co. - 707 College Hwy, Southwick | 12:00 PM
Join us for our 6th annual holiday market. Stroll our cozy barn with handpicked local vendors, artisans, food trucks, live music, beer and cocktails! Hours are 12-5 with no entry fee.
DECEMBER 22ND
Aaron Lewis - The American Patriot Tour
Springfield Symphony Orchestra - 1441 Main St, Springfield | 8:00 PM
Tickets available on Ticket Master.
Enjoy local mega-star Aaron Lewis for a night of patriotism, music, and the American Dream. Reserve your seats now!
DECEMBER 28TH
General Gist - Brass Rail Year End Bash
Brass Rail - 90 Point Grove Rd, Southwick | 8:00 PM
This bash rocked last year so we are doing it again!! We are so excited to wrap up 2024 and team up with The Brass Rail crew to have a rockin’ Year End Bash away from the Hustle & Bustle of New Year’s Eve. There will be a full bar available, 50/50 raffle, and a big old GIST PARTY!
Happy Holidays!
During this holiday season, our thoughts turn gratefully to those who have made our success possible. It is in this spirit that we say THANK YOU for allowing us to serve your community. We look forward to serving all your banking needs in the new year.
Visit our Westfield Branch at 85 Broad Street.
