Health + Wellness

EMA DENTAL

Building confidence one smile at a time Article by Tina Lesniak | Photography by Hannah Josephine Photography For the doctors at EMA Dental, standing for Emirzian, Mariano & Associates, dentistry is not just about maintaining healthy teeth but prioritizing the patient, the person and their individual smile.   "The smile represents the unique soul of a person, their emotion and their personality. The ability to give a person the freedom to smile is life-changing,” explains Dr. Lisa Emirzian...

Food + Beverage

Love Local Farms

Supporting local agriculture Article and Photography by Niki Lankowski How lucky we are to be able to eat delicious local food all year round! This month we feature three unique local farms. Grow Food Northampton proudly works with these farms among dozens of others. Winter Moon Roots in Hadley This farm offers organic carrots, beets, parsnips, turnips, and radishes, harvested as late as possible in the fall, resulting in super sweet flavors. Available at Cornucopia Natural Wellness Market...

Fitness

Heart Health Awareness

Knowing how to keep a healthy heart Article by Tina Lesniak February is American Heart Month - a time dedicated to learning about keeping hearts healthy and knowing the warning signs for heart issues. Although the signs and symptoms of heart trouble can look different for men and women, recognizing them is crucial to survival for both.  Heart attacks and strokes can be caused by poor health, but a family history of heart trouble can also increase people’s risks. According to the American...

Food + Beverage

A List of Local Love

Highlighting businesses loved by locals Article by Tina Lesniak There are so many places to love in the Valley. We are highlighting just a few of these beloved businesses. Easthampton Clay, 116 Pleasant St Suite 241, Easthampton I EasthamptonClay.com “If you ask any of our students or members, they'll likely tell you that pottery is not only a hobby but a respite. At Easthampton Clay, we offer not only a place to learn and practice new skills that aid in mindfulness, growth, creativity and...

Event Planning + Services

Introducing Katt's Kreations

Give the gift of Romance this Valentine’s Day! Article and Photography by Madeline LeBlanc Step into the world of floral elegance with Katts Kreations Flower Shop in Westfield, MA, where European craftsmanship transforms blooms into the perfect Valentine's Day gift. Elevate your Valentine's Day with the epitome of luxury, as each handcrafted bouquet tells a story of sophistication and romance. Kat meticulously selects premium blooms, intertwining vibrant hues and delicate fragrances to create...

Health + Wellness

Whole-Person Caring

Looking at each individual to provide better care Article by Tina Lesniak | Photography by Hannah Josephine Photography For Robert Abbatiello, owner of Clear Point Acupuncture and Integrative Health Care, patient care is about more than treating just one condition. For him, it’s about treating the whole person, not only with treatments but also listening and being there for them. “The whole person is really my focus,” explains Robert. “Everything is important because it plays into how a...

Finance + Legal Services

Planning for the Later Years

Estate Planning is Necessary for Families Article by Tina Lesniak | Photography by Hannah Josephine Photography One of the hardest, but most necessary, things adults can do is plan for what they want in their older years and for how to handle their estate. Speaking to a qualified and experienced lawyer is essential to making sure those decisions are accurately set up and legally recorded. Frederickie “Rickie” A. Rizos, an associate attorney at Parker & O’Grady, LLC in Southampton, helps people...

Food + Beverage

Savor The Flavor

A guide to find good local smoothies Article and Photography by Madeline LeBlanc Step into the New Year with a burst of flavor by indulging in vibrant smoothies. Loaded with essential vitamins and antioxidants, these refreshing blends embody renewal and well-being. Make a resolution to sip your way to health, by combining colorful fruits and nutrient-rich ingredients. Whether you're craving a tropical twist or a green boost, these establishments offer a delightful array of options!  Magic...

Wellness

Clearing out Clutter

Small steps lead to big effects on mental health Article by Tina Lesniak At the start of the new year, many people resolve to eliminate clutter and have an organized living space because clutter can have negative mental health effects. “When our environment is cluttered, it can overwhelm our nervous system. It can be hard to feel motivated or take action,” explains Sara Vatore, a somatic experiencing practitioner, peak performance coach and the owner of Somasynthesis Studios. “We have a very...

Health + Wellness

Girls on the Run Western MA

Inspiring girls to be joyful, healthy, and confident Article by Lisa Queenin What is the background of Girls on the Run? Where did it get started? When did it arrive on the local scene? Girls on the Run was established in 1996 in Charlotte, North Carolina, with a team of 13 brave girls. The program's growth was remarkable, starting with 26 girls in the next season, then 75, and it continued to expand. In 2000, Girls on the Run International, a 501(c)(3) organization, officially came into...