NOVEMBER 2025

Like all transitions, daylight saving time can take a while to get used to. As the sun sets earlier, it’s important to continue scheduling daily time outside to keep moods and energy levels up.  

We invite you to explore Hale’s property for that regular dose of sunshine and join us at an upcoming event: 

• Our tenth annual Fall Family Scavenger Hunt returns November 28 so you can continue outdoor traditions with loved ones during the holidays. Score points in the acorn toss, make a leaf rubbing, and see how long you can hold an animal yoga pose. And, as always, kids can search for prizes along the trails, and you can enter our drawing for a session of Hale School Vacation Days (valued at up to $430) to extend their fun in December. 
• Celebrate the first day of winter with treats, a cozy fire, and a seasonal hike at our Winter Solstice Celebration on Dec. 18.  

Summer program registration opened in October and campers ages 4–15 are grabbing their preferred two-week sessions of Hale Day Camp, Hale Mountain Biking Camp, and Hale Adventure Camp. Our Leadership Development Programs for teens have become especially popular in recent years, so if your high schooler hopes to become a camp counselor, wilderness guide, or mountain biking coach, we’ll be glad to show them the ropes. Bus transportation is included with registration, and camp families enjoy a special discount on season passes for our Family & Community Program at South Beach. Registration is open for that, too! 

With the holidays and school break quickly approaching, now is the best time to register your child for a session of December School Vacation Days (and February and April, while you’re at it). It’s a great way to get the kiddos outside after lots of indoor time, and if you’re new to Hale, it can help them get a feel for camp.

If we see any wild turkeys, we’ll be sure to post them on Instagram. Please remember to tag @hale.1918 on your adventures, too!

Happy Thanksgiving!

Hale Education’s 1,200 acres of adventure include 20+ miles of trails and four ponds, all right at your doorstep. Throughout winter, Hale is open daily from 8am-5pm. A $10 daily parking fee (payable upon arrival) provides use of lots accessible via its Main Entrance at 80 Carby Street. Its South Entrance on Bruné Way is now closed for the season.

On a crisp October night as the Class of 1975 began its 50th Reunion weekend, the Westwood football team held up its end of the bargain by putting 50 points on the scoreboard against Norwood. In the win, Charlie Jessup, celebrating his 18th birthday, delivered one of the greatest performances in Wolverines history, finishing with three touchdowns, two interceptions and two kick recoveries – all in the first half of a 50-7 win over the Mustangs.
 
Jessup, who had missed a pair of games with an injury, was ready to explode when he took the field.
 
“I can’t tell you how excited I was to play, being out two weeks,” said Jessup. “I only get three home games and this was one of the three, because I was out for two of them. I really had to make the most of it,”
 
His first touchdown came on a 43-yard pass from Ty Pindel on 4th-and-8, which gave the Wolverines an 8-0 lead after the two-point conversion. Jessup recovered the ensuing kickoff and Westwood struck immediately with Pindel and Jessup connecting again for a TD, this time from 25 yards away.
 
Incredibly, Jessup recovered the next kickoff as well, and before Norwood had taken an offensive snap, the Wolverines were in the end zone again and the score was 22-0.
 
The Mustangs finally gained possession, but the onslaught wasn’t finished. Jessup intercepted a pass, giving Westwood possession again. The drive that followed ended with Pindel throwing his third TD pass of the night and the Wolverines leading 29-0.
 
All of that happened in 5:38 of play.
 
“I wasn’t surprised after that first quarter,” he said. “I knew what was going to happen. I was ready to play. One of my cousins came to watch, a few of my brothers, so it means a lot.”
 
Charlie wasn’t done. In the second quarter, he stepped in front of another Mustangs pass at midfield, wove his way through traffic, then showed off his state champion track speed by breaking into the clear and streaking to the end zone for his third touchdown of the game.
 
“I’ve been thinking about that,” said Jessup. “Getting a pick, I know I’m faster than everyone. I can reverse the field – everyone’s flowing the other way.”
 
Whatever you call it, The 50 Game or The Charlie Jessup Game, this birthday performance will go down in the history books as one of the greatest of all-time.
 
Congrats to Charlie for being our Dental Arts of Westwood Athlete of the Month. If you’d like to nominate a future athlete to profile, send an email to dbezdedeanu@bestversionmedia.com.

The air on Westwood Day hums with a cheerful energy, a symphony of laughing children and neighbors greeting one another. Amidst this vibrant tapestry, one booth is a bustling, magnetic center of gravity, thronged with a mix of high school friends and a steady stream of curious customers.
 
Behind the table stand twin high school seniors Ansh and Avik, possessing a quiet confidence far beyond their years. For me, seeing them here feels like a story coming full circle, as I met their father at last year’s Diwali festival where he spoke of his sons with profound and beaming pride. It is now obvious that his pride is well-earned.
 
Their journey was not born from a business plan, but from a lifetime of caution. As freshmen in 2021, severe nut allergies were a constant shadow, and they knew the pervasive anxiety of scanning ingredient lists and questioning every bite.
 
“Our parents were always stressed,” Ansh shared.
 
Avik added, “We found it really hard to find options that completely guarantee safety. There’s no doubt about it.” That shared experience, blended with a mutual passion for baking, ignited a simple yet powerful idea.
 
“Why not just try this out?” Ansh proposed.
 
“Let’s see if we can do it for other people, too,” Avik added.
 
Their mission was clear: to give families affordable, delicious options that “eliminate the doubt.” From the very beginning, their father instilled in them a lesson that would become their bedrock: if you are going to do something, do it right.
 
“He didn’t want us cutting any corners or taking any shortcuts,” Ansh explained, “because that’s not how a good business with a sustainable ground is built.” Avik added with a smile.
 
They took his words to heart, diving into the demanding process of creating a legitimate home-based bakery. This was no mere weekend hobby, but an immersive course in entrepreneurship. They passed the long test to become SAFE-C Serv certified, calmly welcomed health inspectors into their family kitchen, and meticulously secured their allergen certifications. It was a formidable set of challenges, but it provided the unshakeable foundation their father had preached.
 
Today, their client list reflects deep connections within the community. They are a trusted key supplier for Comella’s and have become the go-to bakery for children’s birthday parties, lifting a massive weight from the shoulders of allergy-conscious parents. They also deliver to the Westwood Senior Center, gratefully crediting early believers like Kathryn Lendrum at Comella’s and Lina Arena-DeRosa at the Senior Center.
 
“Without their help,” Ansh noted, “we wouldn’t have been able to help our community in the way that we could.”
 
What makes their success so astounding is how they weave it into the demanding fabric of their lives as student-athletes. Both seniors are standout players on the varsity soccer team. Avik is the captain and striker, a blur of motion on the field, while Ansh is the steadfast goalie, the team’s last line of defense.
Weekdays are a whirlwind of homework and grueling practices, so weekends are reserved for the hum of the mixer and the warmth of the oven. It is a delicate dance, but they manage it with remarkable grace.
 
“When you love things so much,” Ansh reflected, “you can find a balance.”
 
Their business is more than a source of income; it is a way to create memories and reinvest in their world. They sponsor their own indoor soccer team, outfitting their friends in custom jerseys for spirited games every Friday night. It is another piece of their dad’s wisdom brought to life, “It’s your childhood, you have to make the most out of it.”
 
As college looms on the horizon, they approach the future with the same measured consideration they have applied to every batch of cookies. Both plan to major in business, a passion sparked in their own kitchen, and hope to remain in Massachusetts to continue growing their venture. They are looking at schools like Babson, drawn to its celebrated entrepreneurship programs that could give them the tools to elevate their business.
 
From a deeply personal need, a community-focused mission has blossomed. Ansh and Avik are not just selling baked goods; they are offering peace of mind. They are showing what is possible with relentless hard work and living by the idea that ventures are built on integrity. Their story is a powerful recipe that blends passion, discipline, and a deep, abiding commitment to the town they call home.
 
Congratulations to Avik and Ansh for being this month’s Standout Studenst! Nominate a future Tinsley Team Standout Student of the Month by emailing Diana Bezdedeanu at dbezdedeanu@bestversionmedia.com and if you’d like to give back to your community and sponsor a regular feature in Westwood Living, contact Tom Leyden at tleyden@bestversionmedia.com

Meet new people, have a good time, and make a difference!
 
Community service has been a positive and fulfilling activity for many of us in Westwood. With service opportunities starting out small when we were younger and evolving to larger more impactful activities as we’ve grown up. In Westwood, there are ways that everyone can participate, no matter what your age or ability.
 
Each year during my elementary years our entire school would take to the track and complete a Walk for Heart Health. Organized by the school’s Wellness department we would walk and talk with our friends as we completed laps around the track. Winning jump ropes and stickers as prizes. Oh, how I miss Elementary School!
 
Many of us graduated from introductory and school based activities into club-based volunteer work with friends. My short but memorable stint in the Girl Scouts included cookie sales of course. Thank you, Roche Brothers, for giving us a place to set up our table and talk with customers – many of whom we knew as neighbors.
 
Middle school was harder. For many my age these were the COVID years, and so many important and needed Westwood service opportunities were on hold in our community. All at a time when we needed each other most.
 
Luckily, there are countless ways to get involved at Westwood High School. We have Student Council, After-School Service Clubs, National Honor Society, and many more special interest groups who prioritize service in their mission. The Westwood Robotics Club is a great example of students giving back. The club organizes mini-courses at many of the town elementary schools and the town library where they pass along their love of all things STEM in age-appropriate classes and all at no charge. I enjoyed helping out at the SHE CAN STEM program operated by the Robotics Club at the Sheehan School last year. It gave me an opportunity to see young girls get excited by learning about how robots work.
 
Like many of us, I have also been the grateful recipient of the volunteer service other Westwood residents have generously contributed. Most notably, all of us who’ve been involved in town sports have felt the contribution. Town sports is a fundamental experience for so many of us who grow up in Westwood. From Little League to town soccer, hockey, lacrosse, track, softball and basketball, our town gyms and fields are bursting each weekend with eager kids rain or shine. All of our town sports are made possible by the amazing parents and volunteers donating their time to train and encourage our young athletes.
 
Our schools are all supported by amazing Parent Teacher Organizations (PTO’s). An army of parents and caregivers collaborate with schoolteachers and administrators to raise needed funds, plan and manage countless holiday events and celebrations, rich educational experiences, afterschool mini courses, science fairs, art shows, community gardens and social events.
 
In good times and hard times, the PTO is always there. I graduated from elementary school during June of 2020. Our moving up ceremony took place over zoom. The PTO volunteers drove around to every graduate’s house to deliver our graduation swag. Although we couldn’t celebrate together in person, the PTO made us all feel connected.
 
There is one special event that I must wait one more year until I can experience it myself – Westwood’s All Night Grad Party (ANGP). The ANGP is an event run by the Westwood Community in Action organization. Hosted on the night of graduation, the ANGP provides all graduates with an amazing fun night of celebration in a safe, alcohol and drug free, environment at the high School. Run entirely by volunteers, for 31 years our 200+ yearly graduates safely make memories that last a lifetime. Sign me up!
 
Beyond these youth-related experiences, Westwood has even more to offer for everyone. The town wide celebration of Westwood Day, managed by the Westwood Recreation department, comes to life with the help of countless volunteers! Each year, the highlight of our fall season is to spend the day coming together as whole town competing in road races, exploring local businesses, enjoying performances, sports demonstrations and crafts.
 
The Westwood Community Chest is a critical organization dedicated to helping Westwood residents in need through temporary financial assistance, as is the Westwood Food Pantry.
 
Living here you learn that Westwood has a great big heart! The people of our town, from young to old, those that have lived here for many years and newest of neighbors all give to each other with smiles and open hearts. It touches every one of us whether we are the giver or the receiver. Thank you Westwood.

More than 40 years ago, Westwood’s Sue Young began a career in fitness, a bit by chance.
 
“I actually fell into it,” she said, as we caught up in the lobby of The Vanderbilt Club in Norwood – Sue’s pride and joy. “I was not a big workout person. I played sports in high school and college. Other than that, I didn’t go to a gym back then. I think when I was a sophomore in college, I got a job at the PLAYOFF Racquetball Club in Braintree. I stayed with them for a few years, and then I started working here when it was Racquetball International. At that time, we had 10 racquetball courts and a bar. That’s it, and when I say a bar, I mean like beer, wine, that kind of bar.”
 
How far we’ve come.
 
Racquetball International, on Vanderbilt Avenue in Norwood, eventually became The Vanderbilt Club, and thanks to Sue’s vision and dedication, and most importantly her ability to surround herself with an incredible staff dedicated to excellence, the club has become a staple in the community, providing a state-of-the-art, friendly environment for people of all ages to exercise, socialize and feel better about themselves.
 
“It’s very important to have great classes, and we’ve optimized our studio space, offering more than 85 classes per week. Adding the pool in the mid-nineties was a game-changer,” she said. “It’s one of the busiest pools I’ve ever seen, and it’s year-round because we put the top on and pull it off based on the season. Everybody’s in a happy mood the day the top comes off and everyone’s in a sad mood the day we put it back on, but it’s a necessary evil.
 
“We have many ages here, but the pool really attracts seniors because water is our friend and many seniors can’t jump, they can’t get down on the ground, so we get them in the pool and we have the most fabulous water aerobic instructors – Ginni Burton, Nancy Barry, Karen Colantouni and Kathy Henneberry.”
 
If you really want to get Sue going, just give her a chance to talk about her team – and her clients. Among those who recently joined the staff is Karlene Duffy, the well-known and beloved former Director of Faith Formation at St. Margaret Mary’s. Karlene is currently heading the daycare division at Vandy, a perfect landing spot for someone who has had such a positive influence on kids over many decades.
 
“When I heard Karlene was available, I called her and asked if she’d like to work here?” said Sue. “It was a no-brainer. The daycare is a huge bonus for all of our young moms, and as the kids age, they get more involved. We have a huge kids swim program. Huge!
 
“Another person who deserves a shout-out is Robin Ostrander, who is a Westwood resident. Robin runs our swim program, which is a Red Cross swim program. She and Kathleen Marvelli, who runs the group exercise program – they’re both incredibly important.”
 
As we chatted, Sue was constantly waving to members as they walked through the lobby. If Cheers was a gym, it would feel like this, because everybody seems to know your name.
 
“Doris Edwards – 94-years-old,” Sue proudly exclaims. “She still comes here. Doris has her caretaker give her a hand. Every Wednesday. She’s a legend!”
 
At the risk of embarrassing Sue, it’s not unusual to hear people call her a legend, too. When you’ve made such a significant impact on generations of people, leading with a caring heart and compassionate spirit, you’re bound to leave a lasting impression.
 
When Maddie Walter, who was featured on our March cover this year, suffered her traumatic brain injury in 2015, Sue and the Vanderbilt team quickly stepped up and organized a massive fundraiser that made a significant difference as the Walters navigated unchartered financial and medical territory. Maddie still visits the club for workouts and maintains a tight relationship with the team.
 
This winter, shortly after the Westwood Cross Country team was featured on the January cover, Sue and her trusted confidant, Michelle Berluti, arranged for the varsity team to visit the club for a special workout and spa treatment.
 
“We got Christen Cadigan do a class with the girls,” said Sue. “Her sister, Andrea, led a spin class. Then Michelle ran across the street to Orange Leaf and got smoothies for everyone as they sat in the jacuzzi and relaxed. It was fantastic.”
 
It’s fitting The Vanderbilt Club is the presenting sponsor of each month’s cover feature, because that commitment is a true reflection of the Young family’s love of Westwood. Sue and her husband, Joe, have five grandchildren, and it wasn’t that long ago their kids were heavily involved in the Westwood school system. They both enjoy celebrating our community.
 
“We love Westwood,” she said with appreciation. “My kids were involved in a lot of sports. My daughter, Erin, was a basketball player and my sons were big golfers. They also played hockey and basketball, but golf was their thing. My oldest, Joey, went to Xavierian for four years and he loved it. My other son, Danny, stayed at Westwood, as well as Erin, so we had a good run with Westwood. Erin has moved back to Westwood, so on my way to work every morning I stop and say hi to the grandkids and have breakfast.”
 
So what’s next for The Vanderbilt Club? That easy question got an energetic response.
 
“We have to keep the great classes going,” said Sue. “We have to make sure we have equipment that’s up to date and not with ‘Out of Order’ signs on them, like a lot of places do. We have to keep the classes current – whatever is new and exciting – we have to have it on the schedule. We have Barre classes, Zumba classes, muscle classes, you name it, we have it. Yoga, Pilates is huge here. So, we just try to keep the instructors current with what’s popular and beneficial for our members.”
 
The future is in good hands with a passionate leader and a staff eager to please.
 

Westwood Living Podcast

Somehow, just like that, I have been abroad for a little over a month. Here are the updates:
 
On September 18, my three week intensive course at the Florence University of the Arts ended and I had a break from classes until October. 1.
 
During this time I travelled to Innsbruck, Austria and Split, Croatia.
 
Early on September 19, I hopped on an early morning train with two of my roommates to Bolzano, Italy. We had a connecting train from there to Innsbruck.
 
We explored Bolzano for about five hours. It is a city in the South Tyrol province of north Italy and is referred to as the gateway to the Dolomites. The mixing of Italian and Austrian cultures is quite apparent in this city from its traditional dishes, the local residents, and architecture.
 
We got to Innsbruck the night of September 19 and spent two days exploring the city and its surroundings. Innsbruck is the capital of the Austrian Tyrol region and a place that looks as if it were hand-painted due to its rolling mountains, vibrant architecture, and Inn river gushing Alps water through it.
 
On both days, the three of us ended up taking ski lifts up to the top of two different mountains. We ended up mountain-carting down Muttereralmbahn in Mutters and dipped our toes into the ultra-teal Finstrel Reservoir at the top of Drei-Seen-Bahn in Kühtai. It was quite the adventure since we did not know where we were headed yet we stumbled upon these beautiful places.
 
I am definitely what people would label a “foodie” so, I was determined to try Weiner-Schnitzel.
 
I always try my best to get a taste of local foods when in a new place. In my opinion, that is the true way to get an authentic experience. A Weiner-Schnitzel paired with a radler (beer and lemonade mix) is the meal I never knew I needed.
 
I also enjoyed apple strudel for breakfast one of the mornings and a Käsekrainer for dinner the last night we were there.
 
If you ever go to Innsbruck, take the tram up to the mountains because then you will be able to spot cows, goats, and sheep on the trip. Seriously, who doesn’t love farm animals?
 
On September 22, I left my roommates behind to continue their backpacking journey and I navigated my way back to Florence. I am very proud of myself for successfully figuring out another country’s public transport, independently.
 
Next, on September 25, I boarded a 12-hour bus ride to Split, Croatia with a group of friends. We left Florence at 9pm and got to Split at 9am.
 
After getting no sleep on the bus I stored my belongings away in my hostel room, put on a bathing suit and my favorite sun dress, and headed into the Old Town.
 
My group of nine explored the markets and enjoyed the smell of lavender that traced all throughout them (fun fact: Croatia is known for its lavender cultivation since it has the ideal climate to effectively grow it), bought trinkets to bring back home, and saw Diocletian’s Palace. We then headed to the nearest beach to swim and sun bathe.
 
Since we booked this trip through a travel tour group, there were a few planned activities that we joined.
 
Night one was the pub crawl. The next day we spent all day on a boat that took us to the island of Šolta and the Blue Lagoon. We all got to jump off the boat into the pristine Mediterranean waters where we swam with the fish and let the salt hold us up to float.
 
As I mentioned before, I appreciate good food.
 
Being based in Florence I have really missed seafood so I needed to get some while being right on the sea. The seafood in Croatia is phenomenal — the calamari I had was perfect.
 
The next morning we headed an hour out from Split to the Krka National Park which is about 27,000 acres of seven waterfalls belonging to the Krka River and a section of the Cikola River.
 
From there we began our 12-hour journey back to Florence, Italy.
 
I had about two days of rest before diving into my new set of classes at FUA: private voice lessons, wines of the old world (basically, a wine tasting class), and a journalism class.
 
So far, this semester has been a dream. Having the ability to travel and experience such things has been so fun and such a privilege.
 
I still find myself stopping and thinking: woah, this is actually my life right now.
 
Who knows what I will end up doing next, or where I will even be, but I am looking forward to it!
 
Victoria Tibets is a student intern with Westwood Living and graduate of Westwood High School

As we head into the holiday season, it’s easy to let mindful eating slip. But with a few strategies, you can still enjoy festive meals and maintain balance. Here’s what to keep in mind:
 
First, remember portion control over perfection. Don’t beat yourself up over one indulgent meal. Balance it with lighter, nutrient-dense meals earlier or later in the day. Use smaller plates, fill half the plate with vegetables, and allow yourself one “favorite” indulgence without guilt.
 
Second, prioritize protein and fiber. A plate of turkey (or other lean protein), vegetables, and a whole-grain side will help stabilize blood sugar and keep hunger in check. Fiber-rich foods slow digestion and blunt excessive spikes. If mashed potatoes or stuffing are on the menu, aim to include a hearty vegetable or green side to offset starchy elements.
 
Third, go easy on the liquid calories. Holiday cocktails, eggnog, and sugary drinks add up fast. Try alternating alcoholic or sweet drinks with water, sparkling water, or herbal infusions to stay hydrated and reduce total caloric load.
 
Fourth, slow down and savor each bite. Eat more mindfully: chew thoroughly, pause between bites, and listen to your body’s fullness signals. It takes time for your brain to realize the stomach is satisfied, so slowing down helps prevent overeating.
 
Finally, don’t forget to move. A brisk walk after a meal or a light activity break during the day helps digestion, boosts mood, and mitigates holiday indulgences.
 
The holidays are meant to bring joy. Treat your food choices as part of that celebration, not the enemy. Enjoy the flavors, but do so with intention and balance. Eat right and keep moving!

When she was younger, Westwood High School Class of 2023 graduate Vedaamrutha Reddy couldn’t resist filling the walls of her home with crayon drawings.
 
“Instead of my mom scolding me, she bought me art supplies,” Veda said with a laugh. “Both of my parents have always supported me and pushed me to pursue whatever extracurriculars my heart desired.”
 
Over the years, Veda explored many different ways to express herself. She painted and won several state art competitions, picked up chess and ranked nationally, and even learned to play four different instruments, joining the Orchestra and Wind Ensemble at WHS. Through it all, art became her way of making sense of the world. That playful beginning eventually merged with something far more serious.
 
“My grandmother came to the US from India for cancer treatment and I watched my mom advocate for her every single day,” Veda explained. “She translated for her, navigated barriers, and refused to let her story get lost in the system. That experience really opened my eyes to the power of advocacy and the gaps in healthcare, especially for underrepresented communities. It made me want to be part of the solution and to combine that with my passion for art.”
 
Now an honors student and recipient of the prestigious STEM Scholarship at the University of Connecticut, where she majors in Molecular and Cell Biology with a minor in Healthcare Management and Insurance Studies, Veda spends her days balancing coursework, volunteering, and her undergraduate research internship at Harvard Medical School and Brigham and Women’s Hospital. In her free time, she turns to art, creating portraits and zines that give voice to patients’ stories.
 
“I don’t see art and medicine as separate spheres,” Veda said. “When I sit down to make a zine, I usually start with a story, something I’ve seen while shadowing, a moment from my EMT shifts, or something that I’ve witnessed firsthand going to the hospital from my family’s experiences. From there, I sketch portraits that capture not just the likeness of it, but the feeling.”
 
One of her most meaningful works is titled Big Words, Little Ears.
 
“This was a really fun piece to make, because it was speaking to my inner child as well,” Veda shared. “It was inspired by my experience when I broke my elbow in kindergarten and went to Boston Children’s Hospital. My experience there was amazing—the hospital staff, the community, the atmosphere of the children’s room—I wanted to really give that back through this piece.”
 
“This piece is about seeing the child before the patient,” Veda continued. “Oftentimes, hospitals can feel cold and clinical, but kids experience them through curiosity and play. The bright smile, the crayon doodles, the sparkly stickers remind us that even in moments of illness, joy and imagination are part of healing too. My favorite thing about this one was letting my own imagination and creativity flow through it. The stickers and doodles symbolize the child’s individuality and innocence, and I really like the little detail of her looking out the window, because kids—all they want to do is play outside. And the question, ‘What does that mean?’ captures how children don’t understand all the medical terms. Again, it goes back to honoring the child’s perspective and their own experience in the hospital.”
 
Veda’s art is already reaching patients directly.
 
“I have my zines up on my portfolio site and I print them out to circulate at local hospitals. In the future, I hope to connect with the Boston Children’s Hospital Creative Arts Program to d____ my work and learn more about art therapy and narrative medicine. I was a Girl Scout Ambassador before graduating from Westwood, so I would also love to partner with local troops to empower girls in STEM and creativity.”
 
Despite her impressive accomplishments, Veda never had any formal art training.
 
“Westwood has so many programs for students to explore their creativity—Music, Art, Ceramics, Graphic Design—it’s really up to you. I’m self-taught. I never took AP Art or any art class, really.”
 
At the end of the day, Veda hopes her artwork sparks deeper compassion.
 
“I hope that when people see my art, it reminds them that medicine is more than just statistics, charts, and lab values, it’s also about people. Too often patients feel invisible in the healthcare system and if my artwork can restore even a little bit of their agency and spark conversations about equity and compassion, then that’s the impact I hope to have. My art is a way of saying, ’I see you and your story matters.’”
 
Recently, Veda has started accepting commissions. To request artwork, please email veda.reddy.art@gmail.com.
 
Congratulations Veda for being our November Featured Artist! If you’d like to nominate an artist of any sort to be featured – music, acting, painting, drawing, sculpture, etc. – please email dbezdedeanu@bestversionmedia.com

The holidays are magical…and also full of cookies, pies, and candy bowls that seem to multiply overnight. There’s nothing wrong with enjoying a treat, but if every office break room brownie keeps calling your name, it helps to have a game plan.
 
One of the best strategies? Put up barriers, not bans. For example, tell yourself: “I’ll grab that cookie after I have a protein snack.” Suddenly, you’re not saying no, you’re just setting a condition that helps you make a better choice first. Protein is great here because it keeps you full, supports muscle, and makes that cookie less likely to turn into four.
 
But let’s be clear: the goal isn’t restriction. Food is part of the celebration, and you don’t need to “earn” your holiday meals. Instead of trying to cut back, shift your focus toward building strength. Think of this season as your “healthy bulk”, the perfect time to fuel your workouts, lift heavier, and challenge yourself.
 
Keep moving, keep lifting, and keep some balance. When you’re consistent with strength training and staying active, whether it’s at the gym, in an Orangetheory class, or outdoors, your body uses that extra holiday fuel for good.
 
So go ahead, enjoy the pie. You’re not falling off track! you’re getting stronger for the season ahead!

During an incredible Westwood Day, it was my honor to connect with longtime Westwood High School Athletic Director Dr. Joe Gearon. We shared this portion of the conversation on the premiere broadcast of the Westwood Living Sports Show, presented by Nightingale Wealth Solutions.
 
Morgan: What does Westwood mean to you? All these years you’ve spent in the town.
 
Dr. Gearon: I was brought up on A Street, dragged down B Street. Southie is my hometown, but Westwood has my blood. I love this place. The people are friendly. When I was coaching freshman football, before the games on Saturday, one of the mothers would have the whole football team and the coaching staff to the house for breakfast, and that has developed into this. I’m so glad to see that Westwood had become so diverse. We missed that when we were younger, but it’s here now, and I’m very happy about it.
 
Morgan: We never really had this growing up, a Westwood Day. How much do you enjoy seeing the town come to get together on a day like today?
 
Dr. Gearon: This is almost a punishment for me. I’m so old, I can hardly remember any of the kids’ names, and they all come up and say, “Hello,” but it’s a wonderful punishment, because the kids have just been marvelous. A lot of them have moved back into town, and that’s really heartwarming to me.
 
Morgan: You were involved in some great decades of Westwood sports, most notably the ’70s, probably the golden age of Westwood sports, in my opinion, when it came to girls basketball and boys hockey – and also changing from the Dual County to the Tri-Valley League. How proud are you of all those winning teams, all those Dalton Award-winning years when you were part of the athletic program?
 
Dr. Gearon: I’m not bragging because I didn’t earn them, but I have five high school Super Bowl rings. I have great memories of great coaches like Eric Wilfinger, Sue Peters, Kathy Delaney-Smith. I’m going to forget about half of them, mentioning only half of them, but it’s been a wonderful experience.
 
Remember to subscribe to the Westwood Media Center’s YouTube page so you’ll receive notifications when the next episode of the Westwood Living Sports Show, presented by Nightingale Wealth Solutions, is scheduled. We are excited to keep you in touch with some of the finest people who have made contributions to the town of Westwood.

Milestones are important in all phases of life, so it’s vital to pause and recognize when a monumental milestone has been reached. It’s our pleasure to congratulate MKE Development Corp., the parent company of Distinctive Pergolas, as the company celebrates 20 years in business.
 
Owners Michael and Kathy Egasti have dedicated themselves to a legacy defined by integrity, innovation and an unwavering commitment to craftsmanship and community. During their time as sponsors of Westwood Living, Michael and Kathy have regularly engaged with our community, supporting and attending our events while also supporting the St. Mark’s Greek Fest each year.
 
“MKE was founded on the values of family, honesty and hard work, and it became a collaborative force where design excellence meets technical precision,” said Kathy. “What began as a small family business has grown into a trusted name in energy-efficient homes, luxury outdoor living environments, and architectural innovation across New England. We are profoundly grateful for the past 20 years. Thank you for believing in a small family business with big dreams. Here’s to the next chapter. One built on family, craftsmanship, and the communities we’re honored to serve.”

Did you know 70% of children quit playing sports by age 13? By age 14, girls quit at twice the rate of boys. These are alarming drop-offs that result in missed opportunities to reap the lifelong physical, psychological and social benefits of athletic engagement. So what exactly is going on with the girls?
 
Studies show that a significant portion of girls who quit a sport in their early teen years do so because of low body confidence. Young girls feel they don’t match appearance expectations of athletes they see in the media. They use filtered, perfectly-curated images from social media as a metric and their self-esteem takes a major hit when they feel they don’t measure up. Teen girls also cite self-consciousness and a fear of being judged as reasons they step away from a game they previously enjoyed. This psychological barrier can be an overwhelming source of anxiety and become quite debilitating for many. Given the profound and positive effects physical activity has on mental wellbeing, we have to find ways to keep our girls engaged.
 
This is going to require a concerted effort to reframe the sports experience for adolescent girls. Teams, organizations, coaches, and even parents must shift from a performance and appearance-driven model to one that simply prioritizes enjoyment, personal growth and social connection. Relatedly, we must look beyond competitive team sports and embrace diverse, flexible, and fun ways to move. Inclusive, supportive and non-judgmental environments that praise effort over outcome and capability over appearance will ensure girls feel confident in who they are and empower them through adolescence and beyond.

As more Westwood homeowners look for creative ways to maximize their property’s value and flexibility, one concept is gaining real momentum – the Accessory Dwelling Unit, or ADU. Whether you call it a guest house, in-law suite, or backyard apartment, an ADU can open up a world of opportunity.
 
For many families, an ADU offers multi-generational living — a comfortable space for aging parents or young adult children who need independence without leaving the neighborhood. Others see it as an income opportunity, renting out the space to offset their mortgage or supplement retirement savings. And for some, it’s simply a way to add usable square footage for guests, a home office, or future needs.
 
That said, the decision to build an ADU isn’t as simple as picking a floor plan and calling a contractor. In Massachusetts, zoning regulations vary significantly by town, and Westwood is no exception. Some lots are too small to qualify. Others may require special permits or compliance with setback, parking, or utility requirements. Before breaking ground, it’s important to consult both your town’s building department and an experienced contractor who understands local codes and can guide you through the process.
 
At High Pace Construction, we start with a feasibility assessment – reviewing your lot, your goals, and your town’s specific rules. From there, we help homeowners design ADUs that complement the main house aesthetically and functionally, ensuring the finished project looks like an extension of your home rather than an afterthought.
 
When done right, an ADU can be one of the smartest investments a homeowner makes. It adds flexibility, boosts property value, and provides options for the future, all while making better use of the space you already own.
 
If you’ve been curious about what’s possible, start with a conversation. A well-planned ADU might be exactly what your property, and your family, needs.
 
Chris Tenaglia is the owner of High Pace Construction, serving Westwood and surrounding communities with high-quality residential construction and renovation services.

When you flip the page you’ll get your first look at the Westwood winter sports schedule. It’s almost here and winter in Westwood means basketball at Bader Gymnasium, hockey at the Canton Ice House, and plenty of families heading to the slopes. While these activities keep kids (and parents!) active and engaged, they also bring an increased risk of dental and orthodontic injuries. The good news? Most can be prevented with the right habits and gear.
 
Why Mouthguards Matter – On and Off the Ice
 
Whether it’s a rebound under the hoop, a fast puck at the rink, or a fall on the mountain, a properly fitted mouthguard is one of the simplest ways to protect teeth. Athletes in braces are especially vulnerable because impact can cut lips and cheeks against brackets or even derail treatment. That’s why we strongly recommend custom or orthodontic-specific guards for every athlete. (ARCH Orthodontics proudly offers free mouthguards to local athletes — just ask!)
 
Common Winter Injuries
 
We often see chipped teeth, broken brackets, and bent wires from contact sports like hockey and basketball, but winter isn’t just about team sports. Skiing and snowboarding carry their own risks – slips, falls, or collisions on the slopes can lead to serious mouth injuries. We’ve treated patients after skiing accidents, so winter athletes of all ages, from young skiers to parents and weekend snowboarders, should wear protective gear, including a mouthguard, just like they would on the ice or court. You may think it’s a lot, but it’s a lot less than the trauma from jaw and tooth damage.
 
What Parents Should Watch For
 
After a game or day on the slopes, pay attention to these warning signs:
 
-Tooth or jaw pain after impact
 
-Loose braces or bent wires poking cheeks
 
-Aligners that no longer fit after a collision – In these cases, don’t wait – call your orthodontist. Quick treatment can prevent small problems from turning into major setbacks.
 
Building Good Habits
 
Just as coaches stress practice and warm-ups, we stress prevention. Encourage your athlete to keep a small “orthodontic kit” in their sports bag — wax for poking wires, a spare aligner case, and a compact toothbrush. These little steps add up to big protection.
 
Play Hard, Stay Safe
 
At ARCH Orthodontics, we want every athlete, whether on the court, in the rink, or on the slopes, to compete with confidence. Smiles are worth protecting at every level of play. From Friday night basketball to Sunday morning ski runs, remember: a strong defense doesn’t just win games or carve turns, it also protects your family’s smiles.

Every January, gyms across the country fill with people chasing their New Year’s resolutions. For a few weeks, motivation is high. Then, inevitably, routines get disrupted, enthusiasm dips, and the cycle of “starting over” begins again.
 
But here’s the truth: you don’t need to wait until January 1 to reset your fitness journey. In fact, the best time to commit to change is right now, as the colder months set in and routines shift.
 
Momentum Over Motivation
 
The holidays bring a perfect storm of excuses, including shorter days, colder weather, and endless seasonal treats. If you wait until after the ball drops to address your health, you’re already starting from behind. But when you begin in November or December, you build momentum during the toughest season of the year. That discipline carries over, making the new year not the start of your journey, but a continuation.
 
Why Winter Training Pays Off
 
Working out in the colder months offers benefits beyond just burning calories. Training now:
 
-Boosts your immune system – regular exercise can help ward off the colds and flu that circle during winter.
 
-Improves mood and energy – shorter days can trigger the “winter blues.” Physical activity stimulates endorphins, helping you stay positive and energized.
 
-Builds resilience – sticking to a routine when it’s hardest strengthens mental toughness, which translates into every part of life.
 
At TITLE Boxing Club, we see members who commit during the winter months achieve far greater long-term success than those who wait for January. By the time the “resolution crowd” shows up, these members are already leaner, stronger, and more consistent.
 
Small Steps, Big Results
 
You don’t need to overhaul your entire lifestyle overnight. Start with two to three workouts a week. Mix cardio with strength training. Prioritize consistency over perfection. For many, group classes or trainer-led sessions provide accountability and energy when motivation runs low.
 
The key is to make your fitness routine a non-negotiable part of your week, just like a meeting or a family obligation. As you build those habits now, they’ll feel automatic by the time spring rolls around.
 
Don’t Wait for the Ball to Drop
 
This winter, challenge yourself to flip the script. Don’t make fitness a resolution that fades — make it a routine that lasts. By starting now, you’ll enter the new year not with guilt or pressure, but with pride, progress, and confidence.
 
At TITLE Boxing Club Norwood, we’re here to help you dig in during the months that test your discipline the most. Together, we’ll make sure your results aren’t a resolution – they’re a reality.

One of the biggest challenges for small, family-run businesses like ours is simply making people aware that we exist. Westwood is our hometown, and we’re proud to run Screen Printing by AIRO, offering customized shirts, trophies, banners, and so much more. But too often, families, businesses, schools, and teams default to national chains and online providers when they need these items – and they miss out on the benefits of working with local neighbors who truly care.
 
That’s why we’re grateful for our partnership with Westwood Living. Supporting this publication allows us to connect with the community in a meaningful way, share what we do, and highlight the reasons to shop local. At the end of the day, we’re not just printers, we’re Westwood residents, raising our family here, cheering on the Wolverines, and showing up at the same fields and courts as you.
 
We’d like to take a moment to thank some of our local customers, the Westwood Volleyball program, Pine Hill Elementary School, Hometown Arcade, Field Martial Arts Academy, Merry Melody Music Academy, ARCH Orthodontics, and Longwood Residential, for all their support and for trusting us with their apparel and trophy needs. From gear to banners, they’ve trusted us to deliver high-quality work on time and at fair prices. Partnerships like this remind us why we started Screen Printing by AIRO in the first place – to help local teams, schools, businesses, and families celebrate their moments and represent their brands in style.
 
Working with us is easy. Unlike big online providers, we’re flexible, approachable, and right around the corner. Need senior night shirts and a banner for the gym? Done. Looking for jerseys or trophies for your child’s youth team? We’ve got you covered. Want sweatshirts, sweatpants, or spirit wear for a fundraiser? No problem. And because we’re local, we can often eliminate costly shipping by arranging a pickup or drop off. It’s personal, efficient, and budget-friendly.
 
We know everyone juggles a lot these days, and we take pride in making this process stress-free. Our goal is always to deliver excellent quality, reasonable pricing, and a friendly, hometown touch that no national chain can replicate.
 
So, as you plan for the winter and spring seasons, think local. Think of Screen Printing by AIRO. We’d love the chance to work with more Westwood and local teams, youth groups, businesses and families to create the shirts, trophies, banners, and swag that bring school pride and community spirit to life.
 
We’re not just in the business of printing, we’re in the business of celebrating Westwood and surrounding neighbors!

November is a time of renewal – vacations are done, kids back in school: getting back to routines that build confidence and energy. At New England Center for Hair Restoration, we believe it’s also the perfect time to focus on the men in our lives.
 
For too long, men have been told to just “accept” the signs of aging – thinning hair, lower energy, and changes in sexual wellness. But today, real solutions exist, and they don’t require major surgery or endless medications. At our Regeneris Elite Men’s Health Clinic, we offer powerful, science-backed therapies that help men feel like themselves again or maybe even better.
 
Hair Restoration: A New Beginning
 
Thinning hair can quietly chip away at confidence. Fortunately, today’s hair restoration options are worlds away from the old, obvious methods of the past. Using advanced techniques, including regenerative therapies like stem cells and PRP (platelet-rich plasma), we help men regrow their own hair naturally – without unnatural plugs or heavy scarring.
 
Best of all, many men are good candidates for minimally invasive treatments that have little to no downtime. Whether it’s restoring a receding hairline or simply adding fullness and thickness, these therapies offer a true refresh that looks and feels authentic.
 
A Breakthrough for Men’s Vitality
 
It’s not just about what’s on top of the head. Changes in intimate performance can impact a man’s confidence deeply – but it’s a subject few feel comfortable raising. That’s why we’re proud to offer Low-Intensity Extracorporeal Shock Wave Therapy (LI-ESWT) – sometimes referred to as the “Viagra® of devices.”
 
This gentle, painless treatment uses sound waves to stimulate blood flow and repair tissue, naturally restoring erectile function without drugs, surgery, or embarrassment. It’s one of the best-kept secrets in men’s health today – and it’s changing lives. Paired with PRP and stem cell therapies, which use the body’s own healing factors to enhance tissue regeneration, LI-ESWT offers a non-invasive path back to vitality, intimacy, and confidence.
 
How Women Can Help
 
Often, it’s the women in their lives who encourage men to take the first step toward wellness. Whether it’s a conversation over dinner or a casual mention after a haircut, sometimes a little support makes all the difference. Reminding them that solutions are discreet, effective, and designed for their busy lives can open the door to a happier, healthier future – for both of you.
 
Confidence Starts Here
 
Hair restoration. Renewed intimacy. More energy. Greater confidence. At Regeneris, we’re proud to offer real solutions for men – no gimmicks, no heavy sales pitches, just cutting-edge treatments backed by science and compassion. If someone you care about could benefit from a little encouragement, now’s the time.
 
November is Men’s Month at Regeneris – and a fresh start is only a conversation away.

As New Englanders, we know to brace ourselves for colder days, icy sidewalks, and early sunsets. But for many, winter also brings another familiar feeling: aching joints. Whether it’s your knees, hips, or shoulders, that extra stiffness is not just in your head — there are real reasons behind it. The good news? With a little knowledge and some proactive habits, you can stay comfortable and keep moving all season long.
 
Why Do Joints Ache in the Cold?
 
While research is ongoing, most experts agree that changes in barometric pressure – the weight of the air around us – play a big role. As pressure drops ahead of a storm, tissues inside your joints can expand slightly, putting pressure on nerves and leading to discomfort.
 
Cold weather also affects circulation, making muscles tighter and less flexible. Combine that with shorter days, less outdoor activity, and more time sitting indoors, and it’s no wonder your body feels stiffer in the winter months.
 
Who Feels It Most?
 
People with arthritis or old injuries tend to notice these changes more. But even healthy joints can feel the effects of temperature swings. It’s especially common in weight-bearing joints like the knees and hips, which already carry the burden of daily movement.
 
What You Can Do
 
The key to reducing cold-weather aches is staying proactive:
 
Keep moving: Gentle, regular activity keeps blood flowing and joints lubricated. Even short walks or stretching sessions make a difference.
 
Layer wisely: Staying warm, especially keeping your extremities covered, helps reduce stiffness. Gloves, thick socks, and knee sleeves can be surprisingly effective.
 
Stay hydrated: Dry winter air and indoor heating can dehydrate you faster than you think. Hydrated tissues are healthier tissues.
 
Use heat: A warm shower, heating pad, or even a microwavable heat wrap can loosen stiff muscles and soothe sore joints.
 
Strengthen and stretch: Building muscle around joints provides stability, while stretching increases flexibility. Both reduce your risk of injury.
 
When to Seek Help
 
Occasional stiffness is normal, but pain that interferes with daily activities, wakes you at night, or worsens instead of easing up deserves medical attention. Persistent swelling, redness, or instability are also warning signs that it’s time to see a specialist.
 
Staying Ahead of the Season
 
Winter in New England can test our patience – and our joints – but it doesn’t have to sideline you. With smart preparation, you can minimize discomfort, stay active, and keep doing the things you love, no matter the temperature. At Boston Bone & Joint Institute, our goal is to keep you moving, safely and comfortably, through every season.

When we think of Thanksgiving, we picture the perfect turkey, the perfect table setting, the perfect centerpiece. The never-ending shopping list. The frantic, last-minute grocery runs for that one forgotten ingredient. But amid all the planning and preparation, there’s a quieter kind of beauty that makes this day truly special.
 
Of course, my family loves to plan every detail of the meal, right down to the three kinds of potatoes and five different desserts. But the most coveted job in our house isn’t the cooking. It’s cutting out the Thankful Leaves for our annual Thankful Tree.
 
This tradition began the year we moved into our current home. While the kids were at school, I found myself standing in the dining room, staring at a blank wall and wondering how to decorate for the holiday. Before I knew it, I had painted a full, life-sized tree trunk and cut out an assortment of fall-colored paper leaves.
 
When the kids came home, we gathered around the table, each writing down something we were thankful for on a leaf, then turning them upside down so no one could peek. When it came time to set the table, the kids scattered the leaves facedown at each place setting to be read aloud during Thanksgiving dinner.
 
It was humbling, and often emotional, to hear what everyone had written — friends’ names, teachers, good health, and most of all, family. Those leaves later made their way onto the wall, creating our very first Thankful Tree.
 
Over the years, the tradition has remained. We’ve shared it with extended family and friends who’ve joined us for the holiday, and even this year, some who can’t be here in person are mailing their leaves ahead of time so they can still be part of the tree.
 
So when you’re setting your table this Thanksgiving, don’t forget to leave a little room for some Thankful Leaves. You’ll be glad you did!

With the holidays approaching, we set out on a day trip with Grandma Stetson (99) to celebrate the season in the birthplace of Thanksgiving. A 45-minute drive through rolling hills still crowned with autumn color brought us to Plymouth, where living history blends beautifully with coastal beauty and New England hospitality.
 
To See
 
We began at the Plimoth Grist Mill, a working reconstruction of the Pilgrims’ 1636 mill. Nestled beside Town Brook Park and decked in Fall décor, it offered a charming glimpse into how early settlers harnessed natural energy to ease daily life and a gentle reminder to appreciate the conveniences of our own time.
 
A brief stroll down Leyden Street, known as “America’s first street” and named for the Dutch city that once sheltered the Pilgrims, brought us to Plymouth Harbor. Though Plymouth Rock can be underwhelming, the harbor’s park-like setting and fishing boats gliding across the bay made for a lovely stroll. Boarding the Mayflower II, a full-scale replica of the 1620 vessel, we imagined the 102 passengers who enduring 66 days at sea in just 1,632 square feet! It left us impressed with their fortitude and grateful for modern travel.
 
Next, we visited the recreated Wampanoag Homesite and 17th-Century English Village at Plimoth Patuxet, where history is brought to life by costumed actors chopping wood, tending fires, and recounting stories. Since Grandma last visited when the museum first opened in 1947, she shared memories of its rustic beginnings that were quite a history lesson for everyone (staff included).
 
To Do
 
Autumn in Plymouth moves at an easier pace, with fewer crowds and plenty to explore. Main Street has something for everyone, like Something for Your Dust (vintage treasures), Laughing Moon (earth-friendly gifts), and British Imports (Anglophile-approved goodies). Nearby, the town’s oldest home, Richard Sparrow House (1640), doubles as a museum and artisan shop with handcrafted pottery and jewelry.
 
While we joked about unleashing Grandma’s “inner Viking” at Long House Axe Throwing, we ultimately elected to forego that adventure in favor of the vivid current exhibit at Plymouth Center for the Arts. Low on time, we decided to save the scenic trails and cranberry bogs at Myles Standish State Forest and Blake Planetarium’s 4k facilities for a future visit. Thankfully Plymouth is close enough for another visit soon.
 
To Savor
 
Year round, “America’s Hometown” enjoys a feast. Even in the cooler weather, the outdoor patio at Rye Tavern (1792) buzzed with brunch goers enjoying farm-to-table brunch creations and the late-blooming zinnias.
 
Seafood is everywhere; however we chose Tavern on the Wharf for dinner with its ocean views, live music, and delicious, allergy-friendly fare (lobster rolls!). A final stop at gluten-free friendly Cupcake Charlie’s next door made the perfect sweet ending.
 
Last Look
 
As the sun set over Plymouth Harbor, we felt grateful to be in a place where past and present meet. Honoring that timeless spirit of gratitude and perseverance showed us what the holiday truly means: connection, reflection, and appreciation for life’s simple joys. With its history and heart, Plymouth proved the perfect prelude to the season of thanks.

If you’re a business owner in Westwood, congratulations! This is a wonderful place to plant your entrepreneurial roots, with loyal residents, strong schools, beautiful neighborhoods…and enough New England skepticism to keep everyone honest.
 
A great business in a great town doesn’t just happen. If your storefront / service isn’t getting all the attention it deserves, think about how you’re seen in the community – and I don’t mean mascots, costumes or those Gumby-looking inflatables waving at everyone (never say never though!)
 
Here are four ways to increase your presence in Westwood and beyond – hopefully gaining some new customers along the way.
 
1. Know Who’s Buying – And Who’s Not
 
Start with a little soul-searching. Not the candlelit, stare-at-the-moon kind, but the “who’s actually buying from me?” kind.
 
Many businesses never take the time to truly understand their customer base. They may have a sense – “families,” “locals,” or my personal favorite: “everyone!” – but if you don’t know specifics, you won’t direct your resources effectively when pursuing new revenue streams.
 
Market research shouldn’t require a team of statisticians, or whiteboards full of jargon that Will Hunting himself couldn’t decipher. Just look at your customers and ask: What do they have in common? Where do they live? Age range? How’d they find you? Once you know who is coming to your door or website, you can figure out who isn’t – and why. Now you can target your outreach and messaging more precisely.
 
2. Go Where Young People Are (Hint: Not Sudoku)
 
Look, the younger crowd isn’t reading print ads on the newspaper pages after the comics. They’re on Instagram. TikTok. Some are on Facebook – just to monitor their parents, though.
 
If you want to engage Millenials and Gen Z, you’ve got to meet them where they are. Social media isn’t just for influencers, or people filming themselves cooking, or Mr. Beast. It’s a powerful, inexpensive tool for reaching the next generation of customers.
 
Post regularly, and be predictable with the timing – if folks know Sydney Sweeney posts pictures on the 6th-7th of each month, guess which days they’ll log in. Highlight your offerings and share behind-the-scenes content – people love feeling like they have the inside scoop. Engage with the community! Have a real person answering chats in real time – authenticity works better than spit-and-polish (a concept which long predates modern technology.)
 
3. Use the Resources in Your Backyard
 
Westwood has a variety of organizations that support local businesses. One great example – ahem – is Westwood Living. This magazine and our electronic platforms are not just good reading while waiting at the dog groomer. They are proven tools which connect you with your neighbors and customers. Join us – and get your name in front of nearly everyone in town, fast!
 
If you must venture beyond Westwood Living and our fun social gatherings and networking/fundraisers, there are town events, groups, partnerships to be made. Check the calendar and go! Sponsor a youth team. Donate to raffles. Strike up a conversation with someone while standing in line – you’re probably both wondering why you’re even in a line, since everyone now uses the mobile app….
 
Community presence isn’t just advertising – it’s connection. People do business with people they know and trust. So get out there. You cannot win the game without first showing up to play it.
 
4. Write Your Own Stuff (Even If Not Pulitzer-Worthy)
 
This might sting a bit in 2025, but it needs to be said: avoid using AI to write your advertising or marketing copy. It’s tempting. It’s fast. It sounds eerily competent.
 
But it’s NOT YOUR VOICE. Customers can smell it. Vague, just-a-bit-too-peppy tone? Unusual phrasing? Suspicious lack of personality and any alliteration? That’s the sound of a robot pretending to be you. And it’s not f-f-f-foolin’ anyone anymore at all.
 
People value authenticity. They want to hear YOU, not the same generic pitch every huge corporation uses. Even if your grammar ain’t perfect or your jokes don’t land, writing your own content gives your brand a human touch. That builds trust. Trust builds loyalty.
 
That’s it! In conclusion, does my advice guarantee success? Of course not. We’re all doing our best. We can only control the things we can control. But you’re armed with the info now: know your audience, use modern tools, plug into the community, and keep robots out of marketing.
 
Lastly, if you do happen to use ChatGPT to write anything, make sure you use it just once every couple of years. Any more than that, your readers might start wondering why you suddenly sound like a caffeinated squirrel from the future. Not that this columnist would know anything about that.
 
See you around town.
 
Westwood Living? No…thank YOU for living in Westwood. See you next time, and I look forward to hearing from you (even if you need an assist from AI!) any time at jayresha@comcast.net

Reducing three-putts is by far the best way to improve putting, and it leads to better scores. There are many ways to measure your putting performance, but the common ‘putts per round’ is pretty useless. It’s the most commonly used criterion because it’s the easiest to calculate.
 
Better players will hit the ball closer to the hole and should make more putts. Simply measuring the number of putts per round does not accurately represent putting skills.
 
Three-putts are annoying and can ruin an excellent round of golf. Initially, you must determine the distance from the hole where you will make all putts, your ‘100% success circle’. If that distance is presently 18 inches, it could be stretched out to 24 inches with a little practice. This is an important skill that will pay off tremendously.
 
With a little knowledge and practice, three-putts can be limited, and here’s how:
 
Improved Fundamentals
 
A good setup and ball position are the building blocks to consistent putting. You want your feet beneath your hips with a nice bend from the waist so that your arms dangle from your shoulders. The ball should be positioned directly beneath your lead* eye to ensure solid contact and keep your shoulders parallel to the target line. Keeping your lower body still on longer putts is also more difficult. An active lower body will increase the putter head speed and cause inconsistent contacts.
 
Map out the Putt
 
Two questions to ask yourself: is the putt going uphill or downhill, and is it curving to the left or to the right? Most greens are constructed to have a main slope or predominant tilt for drainage purposes. When your ball lands on the green, please pay attention to how it rolls; this will confirm the main slope. Visualize the putt via an imaginary line (dots or arrows) from the ball to the hole. If you’re going uphill, play less and allow for more break on downhill putts.
 
Practice Time
 
Like everything else we do, especially with go1lf, many repetitions are needed on the practice green to improve. You will acquire the skill of distance control through quality time spent on the putting green. Distance is way more important than direction, and during a round of golf, you will have 18 different lengths for your first putts. The only way to get a sense of the green speed is to roll a few putts before your round. A long lag putt aims to get the ball as close to the hole as possible, or at least within your ‘100% success circle’.
 
Tidbits
 
More than 99% of putts inside 36 inches are made on the PGA Tour. So, this proficiency results in just over .5 three-putts per round for the best players in the world. Recent statistics show that, on average, 75 shooters will have 1.5 pitches per round, which increases to 3 pitches for 85 shooters. It can easily reach 6 or more for the 100-110 shooter!
 
*The lead side is the side closest to the hole, which is the left side for the right-handed player.

Clay Subaru, like all Subaru dealers, is committed to the community and this October, we partnered with Shultz Guest House to host our annual Pet Adoption Event. Friends who adopted pets at the event were pre-approved through a detailed application process through Shultz Guest House, and we were thrilled to help these animals find forever homes.
 
Clay Subaru was honored to receive the 2024 Customer & Community Commitment Award. To learn more and become involved, visit Clay Subaru on Providence Highway in Norwood and visit claysubaru.com.