Go Local | April 2017

GO LOCAL MAGAZINE . APRIL 2017

April 2017 Volume 3 . Issue 5 golocalmagazines.com

GOLOCALMAGAZINES.COM

lamb ladies hard pressed Tree life in the canopy with arborist laura mele

grassroots gastronomy

The more you buy, the bigger the rebate!!

Receive a 10% Rebate on Eligible Bosch Kitchen Packages!

2 GO LOCAL April 2017

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new this month 6

A NOTE

17

HARD PRESSED

8

GO ON, YOUR SAY

21

LOCAL PICKS

11

GRASSROOTS GASTRONOMY

22

EASTER EGG DYE

15

CLOSER TO HOME

27

LAMB LADIES

From the Editor 15 Minutes of Fame

with Chef Franny Krushinsky Ways to Eat Locally

Stafford Cidery

Herbs, Bath & Body, Mulch Doing it the Natural Way Pine Knob Farm

GOLOCALMAGAZINES.COM 3

new this month 30

LOCAL TAILS

33

tree life

38

go eat

41

ABORN CASTLE

44

in the garage

49

soaring scene

53

local picks

54

local family

57

hope for honduras

61

local dish

65

local einstein

66

local countdown

Stacy, McLovin & Rocket In the Canopy with Arborist Laura Mele Quiche Caprese Ellington, CT

Roy Reale -1953 Chevy Model 3600 Disc Golf at Crane Hill Pysanky Egg Workshops Hobbies for the Whole Family Jeff Braun Memorial Foundation Stir the Pot, East Windsor, CT Put Your Thinking Caps On 7 Local Theatre Groups

4 GO LOCAL APRIL 2017

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INNOVEST F I NA NC I A L S E RV I C ES

• Income Tax Preparation • Retirement Planning • Estate Tax Planning • Investment Planning* • Individual Retirement Accounts (IRAs) • Rollovers • Annuities* • Mutual Funds* • College Funding* • Life, Health and Disability Insurance • Long Term Care Insurance • Asset Management Services • Elder Care Services

268 Hazard Ave., Enfield www.innfin.com 860-745-6448 • Retirement Planning • Investment Advisory Services • Tax Preparation & Planning

CARY RUBMAN

Certified Public Accountant Certified Financial Planner™

DEREK MEADE Investment Advisor Representative*

Investment and insurance products offered are NOT FDIC INSURED | May lose value | No bank guarantee *Securities offered through H.D. Vest Investment ServicesSM, Member SIPC, Advisory Services offered through H.D. Vest Advisory ServicesSM, 6333 North State Highway 161, Fourth Floor, Irving, Texas 75038, (972) 870-6000.

InnoVest Financial Services is not a registered broker/dealer or registered investment advisory firm.

INNOSURE INSURANCE IS AN INDEPENDENT INSURANCE AGENCY

Call for a quote on your insurance

AUTO • HOME • LIFE

BUSINESS • RENTERS/CONDO HEALTH • LONG-TERM CARE (and all other lines of insurance)

www.innosureinsurance.com

JAY RUBMAN Insurance Agent

268 Hazard Avenue Enfield, CT 06082 Call us now to save money on your insurance

(860) 265-3905

Email or fax policies to: jayrubman@gmail.com

fax (860) 741-8364

GOLOCALMAGAZINES.COM 5

Whenever a major holiday creeps up on the calendar it brings a sense of bittersweet nostalgia for good times gone (although these aren’t so bad). Since April Fools’ was mostly precluded by punishment, my memories stray to Easter. Like many, we spent the holiday at Grandma and Grandpa Wakleys. Surrounded by farmland and woods, their big stone house was situated on over 100 acres - as long as we could hear my grandma yelling our names off the back breezeway, we were free to roam the land.

However, Easter morning always began indoors. Once we sought out our baskets with chocolates nestled in the plastic grass, I would sit in the farm kitchen with grandma as she prepared fixins’ for Easter dinner (which was always served about 1pm). Springtime cardboard vintage die-cuts were tacked on each of her glass-handled doors and those [borderline creepy] melted popcorn decorations hung in the windows. We didn’t go to church, but she always had the morning service, which crackled above my head from a transistor radio on the shelf. Dinner wasn’t fancy, but had all of the fixings - and people - that created a memorable meal.

Easter was always a joyful time; it was the first time I would see my extended family since Christmas and the onset of spring fostered a certain excitement - especially in the country. It’s with that same feeling of renewal and connectedness that we created Go Local this month. We began with Laura Mele, a Massachusetts arborist who serves as our catalyst to celebrate Arbor Day in the warming days ahead. Like the blossoms on the Bradford Pear trees lining Main Street, a new business has popped up in Stafford; we stopped by to see what’s on tap at the Stafford Cidery. We also experienced lambing season at Pine Knob Farm in Somers, played a round at Crane Hill Disc Golf Course in Wilbraham, toured the Aborn Castle in Ellington and learned about Grassroots Gastronomy with Chef Franny Krushinsky in Longmeadow. Additionally, you’ll find hints of spring sprinkled through the pages, a welcomed reprieve from the grubby-grey scenery.

I always want to take a minute to toot a horn - last month, Go Local was honored to be presented with the Connecticut Ag Journalism Award for “Udderly Fresh,” an editorial featuring Smyth’s Trinity Farm in Enfield, Connecticut. Written and awarded to longtime freelance foodie writer Amy White, the recognition is a tribute to her talent for storytelling and the work of our beloved local farmers. Awesome job!

We’re on the cusp of warmer weather and I can’t help but feel a little liberated shedding the layers of winter. As the landscape awakens from its long nap, the earthy air is filled with an undeniable energy that reignites our senses while the otherwise monochromatic world exchanges itself for color and texture. I hope you enjoy the metamorphosis of the days ahead and celebrate the season of positive change!

6 GO LOCAL APRIL 2017

WILBRAHAM

EAST LONGMEADOW

AGAWAM

LONGMEADOW Route 190

Route 190

SUFFIELD

HAMPDEN

Route 190

SOMERS ENFIELD

EAST WINDSOR

A CREATION OF

ELLINGTON

Route 190

STAFFORD SPRINGS

GOLOCALMAGAZINES.COM 7

MELISA

Bartender/Waitress

It holds 30 years What do you of my own advenlove most about tures and now my your backyard? boy is running in the same woods.

CHRIS IT Support Consultant

AMY Assistant Town Clerk

SCOTT Steamfitter

Playing with my dog.

I love how open it is and private it is.

AMY Graphic Designer

MIKE Strategic IT Project Mgr

Not seeing another house

My chickens

My campfire pit and the people who gather around it!

Aiming the TV antenna for the black and white TV

A phone cord long enough to reach into another room.

Rotary phones

One thing from your childhood a younger generation wouldn’t get.

Be kind, please rewind.

100% Dial up Internet

Landline phone calls from friends asking to come over & riding bikes with no worry.

What was your first car?

1981 Firebird

1993 Dodge Caravan

‘92 BMW 525

Monte Carlo

‘79 Ford Granada 4 Speed 302

‘67 Oldsmobile Cutlass

Over medium

California Benedict - which is Eggs Benedict - but with bacon, avocados and salsa.

Scrambled

Scrambledonly!

Fresh outta my coop.

Over easy and sloppy.

Sandals!

Sandals and my American flag Chubbies shorts.

Maxi dress!

Bike shorts

The seat belt in my JEEP

Shorts and Crocs

Special effects make-up artist.

Photojournalist or Adventure Photographer and get paid to travel to cool places.

A mom, so I’ve achieved that!

Healthy, wealthy, wise and happy

A stronger woman

National Park Guide

Steak and lobster.

A nice steak dinner or Eggo waffles.

Let’s go with Moussaka. I love Greek food!

Dad’s BBQ baked potato

My Daddy’s Barbecue

Jambalaya

“Your Woman”

by White Town

“All Star”

by Smash Mouth

“Always Be My Baby” by Mariah Carey

“What I Got”

by Sublime

“I’d Do Anything For Love”

by Meatloaf

“Fly Away”

by Lenny Kravitz

How do you like your eggs?

Warm weather attire you’re looking forward to wearing most?

What do you want to be when you grow up?

What would be your last meal?

What’s your favorite ’90s jam?

8 GO LOCAL APRIL 2017

www.EllingtonAgway.com

“Your Yard, Garden & Pet Place!”

Authorized Dealer:

74 West Road (Route 83) Ellington, CT • 860-875-3355 GOLOCALMAGAZINES.COM 9

Countdown to Antwerp

LEAVING APRIL 24

ut Antwerp! o b s a We can customize your very u own diamond order!

Ask

807 Williams Street, Longmeadow, MA 01106 (413) 567-7977 | michaelszwedjewelers.com Mon., Tues., Wed., Fri. 10am-5:30pm, Thursday 10-7, Saturday 10-4

All you need for a

Fabulous Easter Feast!

901 Shaker Rd., Longmeadow, MA 413.567.5637 Sun 8am-7pm • Mon-Sat 8am-8pm armatasmarket.com Like Us On 10 GO LOCAL April 2017

! AMBER WAKLEY  AMELIA INGRAHAM

GOLOCALMAGAZINES.COM 11

12 GO LOCAL APRIL 2017

FORGOODMEASURECATERING.COM . (413) 222-1979

Where caring is the only thing that surrounds you.

“My claustrophobia wasn’t a problem during my MRI. They even let me listen to music.’’

OPEN MRI at Enfield 860.745.2288

OPEN MRI at Buckland Hills 860.648.4674 OPEN MRI of Glastonbury 860.657.2242 OPEN MRI of Middletown 860.346.7400 14 GO LOCAL April 2017

ACCREDITED BY AMERICAN COLL EG OF RADIOLOGY. E

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CUPOLA HOLLOW FARM

1510 NORTH STONE STREET WEST SUFFIELD, CT (860) 668-0859 . CUPOLAHOLLOWFARM.COM CUPOLAHOLLOWFARM@AOL.COM

DOWN TO EARTH FARM CSA

5 MICHELEC ROAD . STAFFORD SPRINGS, CT (860) 851-9617 . GETDOWNTOEARTH.ORG CSA@GETDOWNTOEARTH.ORG

EASY PICKIN’S ORCHARD

46 BAILEY ROAD . ENFIELD, CT (860) 763-FARM . EASYPICKINSORCHARD.COM FARMERB@EASYPICKINSORCHARD.COM

GRANNY’S PLACE

844 MAIN ST . AGAWAM, MA (413) 335-7610 GRANNYSPLACEAGAWAM.COM GRANNYSPLACE09@COMCAST.NET

GREEN ACRES FRUIT FARM

868 MAIN ST . WILBRAHAM, MA (413) 596-3016 FACEBOOK.COM/GREENACRESFRUITFARM GREENACRESFRUITFARM@OUTLOOK.COM

JEN’S BOUQUETS

121 EAST ROAD . BROAD BROOK, CT (860) 623-5925 . SYMEFAMILYFARM.COM SYMETREES@COX.NET

OXEN HILL FARM

1434 HILL STREET . SUFFIELD, CT (860) 214-5104 . OXENHILLFARM.COM FARMER@OXENHILLFARM.COM

RED FIRE FARM

7 CARVER STREET . GRANBY, MA (413) 467-7645 . REDFIREFARM.COM INFO@REDFIREFARM.COM

SCANTIC VALLEY CSA

244 HAMPDEN ROAD . EAST LONGMEADOW, MA (413) 627-2718 . SCANTICVALLEYCSA.ORG POMEROYSVEGFARM@YAHOO.COM

SIMPAUG FARMS

1393 SHELDON STREET . WEST SUFFIELD, CT (203) 431-7166 . SIMPAUGFARMS.COM INFO@SIMPAUGFARMS.COM This is a partial list of local CSAs. Please contact the local farm of your choice to learn more about CSA membership.

GOLOCALMAGAZINES.COM 15

ArTs On MaiN LOCAL ART SHOW SECOND FRIDAY EVERY MONTH

LOCALLY EE ROASTED COFF ODS O G D FRESH BAKE L CA LO & IC ORGAN

FRIDAY, APRIL 14th

6PM-8PM

ArTs On MaiN

THE ARTWORK OF ELLEN DOUGAN STAFFORD CIDERY WILL BE SHOWING

“PSYCHEDELIC VIBRATIONS JMS GRAD ART SHOW BY” JACQUELINE SIDOR

42 MAIN STREET STAFFORD SPRINGS, CT

860-851-8900

MON-SAT 6AM - 6PM SUN 7AM - 3PM SERVING BREAKFAST & LUNCH

WWW.MIDDLEGROUNDCAFE.COM

Consider us your source for the right material to build the world around you.

Processed Gravel, Mulch, Topsoil, Crushed Stone, Building Stone, Flagging & Veneer Serving All of New England 156 COOPER LANE, STAFFORD SPRINGS, CT • (860) 684-2789 16 GO LOCAL April 2017

www.staffordsandandgravel.com

! AMBER WAKLEY  J ACQUELINE M. SIDOR, JMS ART & PHOTO

GOLOCALMAGAZINES.COM 17

STAFFORD CIDERY • 68 MAIN ST, STAFFORD SPRINGS, CT CRAZYCOCKCIDER.COM • FACEBOOK.COM/CRAZYCOCKCIDER

GOLOCALMAGAZINES.COM 19

Connie Says...

Mower Not Running?

We have all your favorite Easter Chocolates, Pops and Candies

WE CAN HELP! #1 in Sales & Service since 1969!

6 Center Square East Longmeadow, MA

413.222.2642

Ample Parking in Rear

Updo Special… $50 Color Special $$50 Apple Keratin Treatment 120

Power Equipment Co.

525-3752 104 Shaker Rd., E. Longmeadow, MA

www.acresequipment.com

w/free cut…

…

(Reg. $250)

39 Maple Street East Longmeadow, MA

*New clients only. Expires 5/29/17

(413) 525-3600

with Jen or Nika*

denardosrestaurant.com

Call or text Nika at 427-8501 or Jen at 348-5397 37 Maple Street, East Longmeadow 413.525.3900

Mon. Closed | Tues.-Thurs. 11am-10pm Fri. & Sat. 11am-11pm | Sun. 11am-10pm

EXCAVATION

25% OFF Entire Purchase One coupon per customer. Expires 4/30/17

165 Shaker Road • East Longmeadow, MA (413) 525-5055 • melissa@jlhkids.com 20 GO LOCAL April 2017

• Sewer/Water Repair & Renewal Service • Dumpster Service • Excavation • Well Line Excavation

Cell: 413-262-1870 135 Parker St., East Longmeadow, MA

go local picks

COOL STUFF JUST OUTSIDE YOUR DOOR

LOCALLY GROWN HERBS GRAZIANO GARDENS & GIFT SHOP • 280 ELM ST • EAST LONGMEADOW, MA (413) 525-6137 • GRAZIANOGARDENS.COM

Fresh herbs take food to another level. They’re a quick and easy way to add flavor to your favorite dishes. Why not plant some in a backyard garden or sunny window to use at any time? Graziano Gardens can help you get started. They grow their own herbs, as well as vegetable plants, annuals, perennials, hanging baskets, trees and shrubs at their East Longmeadow greenhouse. You can also shop for the perfect pot, fertilizer, tools and garden soil in their full service garden center and gift shop. They’ve got everything you need to get started and will even help with landscape design if you decide to go all out and transform your backyard into a garden sanctuary.

HANDMADE BATH & BODY PRODUCTS SCENTAPY • ENFIELD, CT • (860) 394-9068 • SCENTAPY.COM KIMBERLY@SCENTAPY.COM

Scentapy is a small, family run business started by Kimberly Mead and her daughter, Taylor. They create luxurious cold process soaps, lotions, scrubs, body sprays, lip balm, lip scrubs, salves and face masks from raw ingredients. Most of the ingredients are sourced locally, and the rest come from within the United States. They never use artificial colorants-their soap contains natural colorant from herbs, clays, fruit powders, etc.

Products are available through their website, at vendor fairs and events, and several boutiques throughout CT and MA including Oh So Pretties in Wilbraham, MA, Hidden Treasures in Agawam, MA and Vintage Carousel Boutique in Enfield, CT.

LOCALLY MADE MULCH HARVEST NEW ENGLAND • 235 SADDS MILL RD • ELLINGTON, CT (860) 871-7442 • HARVESTPOWER.COM

Harvest New England produces high-quality landscaping products (mulch, compost, topsoil and custom blends) from recycled organic materials such as leaves, wood, brush, and food waste at their Ellington location. Why use mulch? It not only discourages weed growth, but also helps the soil retain moisture, improves soil structure and provides nutrients to the plants as it breaks down. They have many different types of mulch including their Eco Mulch blend, Fine Grind, GreenPeet, Northwoods Bark, Hemlock, Brick Red, Ultra Brown, Midnight Black and Canadian Cedar. Sold by the yard and half yard for pick up; delivery is also available with a three yard minimum.

GOLOCALMAGAZINES.COM 21

Who needs all those artificial food dyes when Mother Nature provides us with everything we need? With a few simple steps and natural ingredients from our pantry, we transformed local, farm fresh eggs into works of art. A simple internet search will give you many different recipes, but here's what we did...

22 GO LOCAL APRIL 2017

1 CUP WATER 2 TABLESPOONS WHITE VINEGAR 1 CUP FOOD OF YOUR CHOICE To get the maximum color, it's best to chop or mash fruits and veggies. Boil it all together and let cool.

Dip raw or hard boiled eggs into cooled liquid.

D&R FARM

146 Thresher Rd, Hampden, MA (413) 636-9681

GRANNY'S PLACE

844 Main St, Agawam, MA (413) 335-7610 GrannysPlaceAgawam.com

GREEN ACRES FRUIT FARM

868 Main St, Wilbraham, MA (413) 596-3016 Facebook.com/GreenAcresFruitFarm

HALO RANCH

304 Turnpike Rd, Somers, CT (860) 749-1129 Facebook.com/ClarksHaloFarm

HIDDEN ACRES STATELINE FARM

265 Wales Rd, Stafford Springs, CT Facebook.com/HiddenAcresStateline

POMEROY'S VEGETABLE FARM

244 Hampden Rd, East Longmeadow, MA (413) 627-2718 Facebook.com/PomeroysVegetableFarm

SCANTIC VALLEY FARM

327 9th District Rd, Somers, CT (860) 749-3286 ScanticValleyFarm.com

SHADOW VALLEY FARMS

111 Stafford Rd, Somers, CT (860)749-4795 Facebook.com/ShadowValleyFarms

SMYTH'S TRINITY FARM

4 Oliver Rd, Enfield, CT (860) 745-0751 SmythsTrinityFarm.com

SYME FAMILY FARM

72 Windsorville Rd, Broad Brook, CT (860) 623-5925 SymeFamilyFarm.com This is a partial list of places to purchase local eggs. Ask your friends and neighbors for more places near you.

GOLOCALMAGAZINES.COM 23

HOMESTEAD COMFORT INTERVIEW WITH OWNERS (L-R), JEFF & DALE GERBER

What distinguishes you from other Businesses in your category?

Homestead, your full-service company, providing all home comfort solutions under one roof. Our services include complete plumbing, heating, cooling, energy, water, and duct sealing. Our focus is on doing the job right the first time and we are committed to delivering 100% customer satisfaction. We guarantee that you will be pleased with our products and services. Our state of the art training/showroom allows us to showcase and train on the latest technology.

Something people might be surprised to learn about you or your business.

In August 2015 Homestead merged with Shaw’s Pump.

This merger allows us to provide complete water and plumbing services, under the banner of Homestead Plumbing, Heating, Cooling, Energy and Water.

Former-owner George Shaw remains available to provide expert consultation on all your water equipment and service needs.

Why should people do business with you?

Homestead is committed to providing a professional experience, from the initial visit by one of our experienced comfort advisors to the completion of the job by our expert installation and service teams.

Everything we do is with your 100% satisfaction in mind, backed by our exclusive Customer Care Program. Financing options are available and we provide emergency service 24/7/365. We are proud to receive an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. We deliver comfort.

address

100 West Road, Unit 2 • Ellington, CT

contact

(860) 870-8700 • HomesteadComfort.com Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for helpful tips throughout the year.

COMPLETE WATER SERVICES

WATER TESTING ∙ WATER TREATMENT ∙ WELL PUMPS ∙ WELL TANKS

Save $200 on installation of a new water treatment system, well pump or well tank.

Cannot be combined with any other offers.

Expires 12/31/2017.

Lic. #S1-385604 P1-278482 SM1-0006512 HOD-0000103 W5-55

24 GO LOCAL APRIL 2017

860-870-8700

homesteadcomfort.com

MUSIC

FREE WiFi

2595

$

Per Person

MONDAY NIGHTS

Children Birth to Age 5

PLAY

Includes Salad, Choice of 3 Entreés and 2 Glasses of Wine

The Greenhouse – Our Banquet Facility accommodates 40-100 Guests Plan your next function here.

Contact Lori at lacucinagreenhouse@gmail.com

MOVEMENT

Time To Put A Little Music In Your Life?

SING

Sunday & Tuesday Night Wine & Dine

•

★ Register Now for Spring! ★ April 11 - June 16, 2017 We Offer FREE Trial Classes

LIVE MUSIC FRIDAY & SATURDAY NIGHTS

Half Price Pizza in the Lounge Dine in only 4-10

WEDNESDAY NIGHTS

Visit Our Website for Details Prime Rib (While it lasts!)

1 Allen Street, Hampden, MA

(413) 566-8324 lacucinahampden.com

Serving Northern CT & Western MA

Siding • Roofing • Windows Since 1920 Somers, CT

Classes Held in Longmeadow and East Longmeadow

www.bonnielight.com |bonnie@bonnielight.com |413-782-3308 F A M I LY

FUN

Mention this ad for

25% off License #0502206

$ Let us make you the Starr of the neighborhood.

Free Estimates • Licensed & Insured

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100 Off

Your order of $1000 or more with this coupon Offer expires 4/30/17

Selling your longtime

Family Home?

Call

CHRIS Buendo Realtor/Associate Partner Licensed in MA & CT

I will personally guide you through the entire process and will escort all prospective buyers and their realtors.

(413)575-9266 Chris@ResultsBegin.com www.ResultsBegin.com

Pizza Palace SIMPLE ITALIAN FARE PIZZA, CALZONES, GRINDERS PASTA, APPETIZERS VARIETY OF BEERS EVERYDAY BREAKFAST SPECIALS

Dine in, Pickup or Delivery!

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK! 524 Enfield Street • Enfield CT 860.745.0715

COME GIVE US A TRY! GOLOCALMAGAZINES.COM 25

101 East St., Rt. 19 Stafford Springs, CT

860.684.2565 festisequipmentandoil.com

MARCH 2017

PRE-SEASON RESTAURANT

BANQUET HALL

145 Main Street • Somers, CT BRITISH INVASION COMES TO JOANNA’S!

TUNE-UP SPECIAL DIY KITS 10% OFF when you mention this ad

Step Back into The 1960’s with

UNION JACK Friday, April 21st Doors Open 6pm Show & Dancing 7-10pm

Tickets

$15 Come Enjoy

YOUR INDEPENDENT DEALER - EXPERT SERVICE. LOCALLY OWNED. THE ADVICE, SERVICE, SELECTION AND SUPPORT YOU NEED TO FIND THE RIGHT FIT FOR YOU.

FRIDAY/SATURDAY CHEF’S SPECIALS Prime Rib, Fish and More!

BANQUET FACILITY Can accommodate 30-250 People NEWLY RENOVATED BANQUET ROOM Open 7 Days a Week 11am-11pm

860.763.5060 Banquet Office 860.749.5060 Lounge 860.749.6002 Restaurant www.JoannasBanquets.com

NOW THAT YOU CAN GET TO IT...

WE’RE READY TO TUNE-UP YOUR TRACTOR!

Serving CT & MA for 36 Years Complete Tree Care & Removal Service Stump Grinding • Crane Work • Expert Pruning Insect & Disease Control 24 HOUR EMERGENCY SERVICE Fully Insured • FREE Estimates

WE SPRAY FOR GYPSY MOTHS

Serving CT and South Central MA OFFERING: Dental Floating • Digital X-Ray • Ultrasound Endoscopy & Joint Injections Mon., Tues., Wed., Fri. 8-5 • Thurs. 8-7 • Sat. 8-12

860-870-8701 www.fentonrivervet.com 26 GO LOCAL April 2017

CT Licensed Arborist #62445 | MA Certified Arborist #1676

860.749.7365 | 413.525.3916 www.mtsne.com

! AMBER WAKLEY  AMELIA INGRAHAM

GOLOCALMAGAZINES.COM 27

28 GO LOCAL APRIL 2017

! MANDY WIETING  AMBER WAKLEY

We want to put your furry or feathered friend in print. Go Local's newest monthly feature will spotlight heartfelt, heroic, or even hilarious habits of ‘the things our pets do.'

If you’re a pet parent with a priceless story or unique bond, drop us a message: mandy@thereminder.com

STACY, MCLOVIN & ROCKET EAST LONGMEADOW, MA

Stacy Mraz lives in East Longmeadow with her husband Jeff, two kids, two dogs, birds, and as of a month ago, two pigs. They considered getting another dog at first, but Jeff wasn’t exactly on board. Instead, he said “We should get a pig.”

When she realized he was serious, she started doing her research and joined a Facebook group for mini pig owners. She found McLovin in Idaho and flew him home to MA. After a few months, Stacy realized that McLovin needed a buddy and the dogs weren’t quite cutting it. “Pigs are herd animals so they do best with other pigs,” she said. That’s when they decided to get a second pig, Rocket. Their names truly fit who they are. McLovin is a lover, “From the day he came home he would crawl into my arms, put his head in my armpit and fall asleep,” Stacy remembers. Rocket, on the other hand, is a feisty ball of fire. “At first he would bite anything in front of him, and I mean anything, including fingers.”

McLovin and Rocket are Juliana mini pigs. They generally range from 13-17” tall and weigh between 30-60 lbs. They eat a special grain made by their breeder, but 30 GO LOCAL APRIL 2017

also love veggies and Cheerios for a snack. They are litter box trained and sleep in their own room on a large dog bed piled with blankets to snuggle under. To work off energy, they run around the house with their toys, hopping and twirling with excitement! And yet a belly rub in just the right spot will quickly calm them down.

Pigs are also incredibly smart. Right after McLovin arrived, he would get a few Cheerios each time he used the litter box. One day he noticed no one was watching him and so he went into the other room and stared at Jeff until he caught his attention and then ran to use his litter box.

Stacy says, “It’s amazing how much joy these guys have brought into our lives in such a short time. They are loyal and loving like a dog, independent and curious like a cat, and at the same time they share characteristics of humans. They are so intelligent and compassionate. When you come home from a tough day at work and you are greeted by these little faces, it’s like you forget about your day. I can see why they are used for emotional support animals. When I hold either of these two pigs, instantly I feel pure love.”

Spruce Up Your Territory You can count on us for reliable service, reasonable rates and outstanding results.

Call today for a free consultation & estimate:

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New Installations/Service Spring Start Ups Mid Season Check Ups Winterizations GOLOCALMAGAZINES.COM 31

Family Owned and Operated for 31 Years

Fresh Seafood • Italian Dinners • Pizza

2 Large

CHEESE PIZZAS

1900

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Fridays

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+Tax

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• New Kitchen Remodeling • New Bathroom Remodeling • Refacing

+Tax

Please visit our showroom today & experience what we have to offer our customers.

12 Main St., Ellington, CT • 860-871-6733 holidayrestaurant1.com

3 Time Recipient

558 Chicopee St., Chicopee, MA

413-532-2727 • interstatekitchens.com MA Reg.#143343

Welcome Spring!

For The Best Lawn in Town Get the Best Advice

All Lawn Care Programs on SALE

SAVE THE DATE Spring Fling Weekend April 22 & 23

We Send Flowers Worldwide 783-5883 1359 Wilbraham Rd. Springfield

413-783-5883 OPEN DAILY

75 OFF

$

Complete countertop refinishing job (30 sq.ft. min.)

One coupon per project • Through 6/30/2017.

Cannot be combined with any other offers.

541 Center St. • Ludlow, MA

413-589-0769

16acresgardencenter.com

Claws and Paws Pet Salon

JASHCUTS BARBER STUDIO

Where your pet is Family

860.265.2390 Call for appointment

546 Enfield Street • Enfield, CT

clawsandpawspetsalon@yahoo.com

NOW OPEN Tues-Fri 8-6 | Sat 8-3 Walk ins welcome!

204 Elm St. Enfield, CT | 860.265.3161 | www.jashcuts.com

Discounts for Military, Police Dept., Fire Dept., Seniors & Kids

32 GO LOCAL April 2017

! AMBER WAKLEY  J ACQUELINE M. SIDOR, JMS ART & PHOTO

ith the rubber soles of her boots firmly pressed against the rippled bark of an old maple, Laura Mele leans back, thrusting her body up toward the tree’s canopy. Using just a single rope, her self-propelled ascent appears effortless, particularly with the arsenal of tools that dangle from her harness. She works like a surgeon, armed with a chainsaw, a telescoping pole saw, climbing hardware and handsaw nestled in a scabbard at her hip. She scours the tree, inventorying each branch and devising a systematic approach that focuses on the health and safety of the deciduous giant.

GOLOCALMAGAZINES.COM 33

Laura is an Arborist, a professional trained in the art and science of planting, caring for, and maintaining individual trees.

Her expertise is a collaboration of physical vigor and the knowledge needed to care for trees. In a way, she serves as our local Lorax and is a catalyst to honor Arbor Day on Friday, April 28.

A Massachusetts resident, Laura grew up in the antithesis of an arboreal environment, but rather as a “suburb kid” in Connecticut. When she was eighteen she took off to Oregon and her first job was mowing lawns for a landscape company. It was on a zero-turn lawnmower in the Pacific Northwest that she realized this type of work was a practical way she could make a real living.

“It was so cool, I was getting paid to be outside,” says Laura. “I fell in love.”

Laura continued landscaping for about four years before returning to New England to attend the University of Connecticut, earning a degree in Horticulture. From there, she continued to work in landscaping, but really delved into the world of trees; she appreciated the speciality of the field. She began working for a company in the Berkshires and knowing every winter a round of layoffs would be distributed, she began working for a tree service and would prune apple trees throughout the winter months.

“It was such an eyeopener because [some] tree guys can be a rough bunch,” laughs Laura. “At the same time, I felt right at home in that way.”

34 GO LOCAL APRIL 2017

It’s no secret that the tree service business is predominantly a male-dominated industry. But Laura, an admitted “scrapper,” didn’t let that stop her.

Conversely, she enjoyed the challenge. At just over five feet – and with an awesome laugh – she’s had no problem with physical prowess.

With a few years of work experience under her belt she began working for a small tree company in Florence, Massachusetts. The small business serviced residential accounts, an operation she described as “old-school.” Without a bucket truck, she was employed as a tree climber, gaining experience in all facets of tree work including climbing, pruning, cabling, removals and fertilization. Simultaneously she earned her Liberal Arts Degree at the University of Massachusetts, then went on to work as a Utility Arborist for Western Massachusetts Electric Company and as a Field Arborist with National Grid. Since then, she has found a home at ArborTech Tree Services in East Longmeadow.

Laura says she enjoys all the facets, the contrast of biology and botany, pruning and maintenance, and the healthcare aspect in identifying diseases.

“My work is specifically for the health of the tree,” explains Laura. “Especially in a residential environment, I have to balance what the tree needs and what people need so there is a coexistence.”

It’s the balance of pruning back tree limbs over a driveway while being meticulous for the overall health of a tree, for example. As a highly accredited Arborist, Laura is an expert at pruning ornamental trees and shrubs with training in insect and disease managements. She’s an ISA (International Society of Arboriculture) Certified Arborist, is a Certified Treecare Safety Professional, and is a licensed Arborist in both Massachusetts and Connecticut – examinations that are no easy accomplishments.

GOLOCALMAGAZINES.COM 35

Like any living thing, trees need TLC and upkeep.

Well cared for trees not only add value to individual properties, but also offer incalculable environmental benefits. Arborists like Laura remove branches, prune back tree limbs that are diseased or dead, clean up tree damage and care for fruit trees to ensure maximum fruit production.

“We’re gaining more traction as a profession; it’s a career path that requires a lot of knowledge,” says Laura.

“It’s important for me that people know arboriculture is a real professional and viable career. Younger people should know that it is a good option with a lot of rewards. It’s great to be outside and have a positive impact on the environment.”

With annual conferences, scientific symposiums, tree climbing competitions and trade events, the world of arboriculture is growing. Events like the New England Tree Climbing Championship (June 3 in Attleboro, MA) is a blend of technical events made up of safety-oriented tree care tasks and practices. The winners of this competition will be sponsored by the New England chapter to attend the North American Tree Climbing Championship in Utah, a “Super Bowl” of sorts in the tree care world.

Organizations such as WTCW (Women’s Tree Climbing Workshop) create a safe, encouraging, and empowering learning environment for women to climb trees, with an emphasis on arboriculture. The successful workshops are run by some of New England’s most successful women climbers – Melissa LeVangie, Bear LeVangie, Marcy Carpenter (co-founders), and Rebecca Seibel-Hunt. Organizations like WTCW are a welcomed demonstration of the progressive momentum in the world of arboriculture.

Laura says her job is a test of both physical and mental strength; there’s a lot of problem solving. Her tree knowledge has earned her respect in the field, but she has irrefutably proven herself with her climbing ability.

“It’s such a rush, look at what you’re dealing with, it’s just so massive,” says Laura. “Trees are some of the oldest living things on earth, and we are so small, and the idea that I get to interact with them is pretty cool.”

Back on the sprawling branches of the towering maple, Laura’s like a calculated pendulum, swinging MASSARBOR.ORG Massachusetts Arborist Association CTPA.ORG Connecticut Tree Protective Association with accessibility to every part of the tree. She moves WOMENSTREECLIMBINGWORKSHOP.COM Women’s Tree Climbing Workshop swiftly and accurately, removing a dead branch in one ARBORDAY.ORG section and for maximum growth, prunes back another. By definition she’s a tree doctor, an expert in the needs of trees and is trained and equipped to provide proper care.

“I love trees, it sounds cheesy,” Laura says with a smile. “I really care about trees and the times that I’m out in nature and quiet, it’s just phenomenal. They are giant, long lived and they don’t even really need us. They’re great, I just love trees.”

36 GO LOCAL APRIL 2017

Gifford’s Ice Cream • Italian Ice • Frozen Yogurt OPENING FOR THE 2017 SEASON!

ReStore Westfield 301 East Main Street, Westfield, MA • 413-642-8990 Store Hours: Tues. 12–5, Wed. thru Sat. 9–6 Donations can be dropped off at the store during business hours or we pick up!

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Check our Facebook page for hours and events @ Ice Cream Depot

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99

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Located in the Longmeadow Shops GOLOCALMAGAZINES.COM 37

go eat

! RECIPE SUBMITTED BY CHRIS & AMY WHITE, A COUPLE IN THE KITCHEN BLOG

Quiche Caprese By definition, Caprese means: prepared with fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil leaves and drizzled with olive oil. Italian flavors so essential that their colors make up the Italian flag. You’ve seen Caprese as a salad, as a pizza, and even as a pasta. So why not a quiche? This one came out like a fluffy custard. It was light, savory and oh, so easy! Added bonus?

It could be eaten any time of day, served hot or at room temperature.

Make yours extra special by using fresh, local eggs. Check out our list of locations on page 23.

1 refrigerated pie crust 6 eggs, brought to room temperature 2 cups low-fat milk 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese 1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped salt and pepper to taste 2 cups whole cherry tomatoes

Preheat oven to 425. Press pie crust into a deep 9-inch pie dish and, using a fork, prick the crust all around the sides and bottom. Line the crust with aluminum foil and weigh down with beans or pie weights. Bake the crust for 12 minutes. In the meantime, prepare the filling by beating well the eggs, milk, cheese, basil leaves, salt and pepper. When the crust is baked, remove the weights and foil and put the whole cherry tomatoes into the crust. Lower oven temperature to 325. Pour the beaten egg mixture over the tomatoes, making sure ingredients are evenly spread. Bake for 40-45 minutes, until quiche is set but center still jiggles slightly when dish is gently tapped. Let stand five minutes before serving hot, or if you prefer, serve at room temperature.

Teachers by day and would-be chefs by night, CHRIS & AMY WHITE live by the motto “the couple that sautés together, stays together.” The two spend a lot of their at-home time creating culinary concoctions in their kitchen, which inspired their blog “A Couple in the Kitchen.” When they aren't cooking, they're eating out, traveling, or in some other way thinking about their next great seasonally inspired, local ingredient meal. You'll find their recipes, versions of other people's recipes, restaurant and other types of reviews, and miscellaneous additional food-related posts on their blog, acoupleinthekitchen.us

38 GO LOCAL APRIL 2017

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541 Hazard Ave., Enfield, CT | 860.749.5347 GOLOCALMAGAZINES.COM 39

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42 GO LOCAL APRIL 2017

265 SOMERS ROAD, ELLINGTON, CT • (917) 573-2025

ROY REALE

1953 CHEVY MODEL 3600 Roy Reale’s interest in old cars comes from his uncle, “My Uncle Bill got me interested in vintage vehicles when I was a child because he had interesting stories that grabbed my attention, like how he took the family car apart without asking permission.” His love of older vehicles continues because of the beautiful designs and the mechanicals. “Older cars look like works of art to me and the mechanical systems are incredibly clever yet simple. I guess it’s no surprise I have an engineering degree,” jokes Roy. Today, he owns his dream vehicle, a 1953 Chevrolet model 3600 ¾ ton pickup truck. It is part of what was called the Advanced Design series that Chevrolet starting selling after WWII. Considered a ‘resto-mod,’ it is original on the outside but under the hood are some upgrades. It has a Chevy 350 V8 engine with a Rochester Quadrajet 4 barrel carburetor with disc brakes on all the wheels and power steering. “It reminds me of my Uncle Bill who was very dear to me and the truck he used to drive. He passed away many years ago. Uncle Bill had the dump truck version of this truck, a 1953 4400 model, that we used for going to the dump or junkyard and for hauling building materials. I spent a lot of time with him on weekends helping him work on old houses. We used to have to hold the doors closed with bungee cords and car mats 44 GO LOCAL APRIL 2017

were only there to cover the holes in the floor,” Roy remembers.

The story of how Roy found the truck is truly remarkable. “I had gone to the cemetery on Memorial Day with my wife to visit the family plot.” Roy said, “I had mentioned to my wife that my Uncle Bill was especially on my mind that day. When we pulled up, this truck pulled up right in front of us. I recognized it immediately as a 1953 Chevy and pointed it out to my wife. I spoke to the owner, Armand, for a few minutes to share my appreciation and then excused myself. But my wife spoke to the owner a little longer and found out it was for sale. She and my children then secretly arranged to buy it and gave it to me as a Father’s Day gift. Armand was the one who restored the truck and he did a superb job.”

Roy truly loves his truck. “I enjoy taking it out on a nice sunny day with my wife and just going for a ride to get ice cream. It really makes my day to take a ride in it. I love this truck because of the way it makes me feel. It reminds me of the great times I spent with my uncle and what it feels like to be young. When I drive this truck I’m 17 years old again, Uncle Bill is along for the ride and everything is going to be all right.”

GOLOCALMAGAZINES.COM 21

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ABOUT US Mr. T's Powerwash is a family owned and operated business with over twenty years of experience in the industry. We're based in Stafford, CT, but our service area includes most of North-Central Connecticut.

We share a strong commitment to family values, and it comes across in the way that we do business. We always make an effort to treat customers as a part of our extended family - with courtesy and respect. We pride ourselves on our ability to provide high quality services at fair and competitive prices.

One thing that helps us stand out from our competition is that we enjoy good conversation. We strive to answer every phone call personally, although that keeps getting harder as our business continues to grow. But rest assured, if you have to leave a message, WE WILL RETURN YOUR CALL at our earliest opportunity. We are happy to answer any questions you may have, and we will do our best to explain things in a manner that makes you feel comfortable to have us service your home, business, or property.

GOLOCALMAGAZINES.COM 45

DRS. SCANNELL & HOLLINGER, INC. INTERVIEW WITH STEPHEN P. SCANNELL, DDS

What distinguishes you from other Businesses in your category?

Our small town practice style began in 1962 and we continue to practice that style. We treat friends and neighbors, new families and fourth generation families all with the same individual, personal attention they expect.

Something people might be surprised to learn about you or your business.

We have patients return to our practice regularly from the Boston area and we even have Florida “snow birds” plan their winter travels around their twice a year cleanings. I am also very active in Western Massachusetts Boy Scouts and I raise chickens and turkeys.

Why should people do business with you?

Dental care is a partnership.

I have always felt that my responsibility as a dental professional is first to educate the patient and guide them to choose the best treatment option for themselves. Once they have made their decision, I strive to provide them with the exceptional care they deserve.

address

contact

79 Maple Street East Longmeadow, MA

(431) 525-6821 • khsps@yahoo.com scannellandhollinger.com

DRS. SCANNELL & HOLLINGER, INC.

COMPREHENSIVE CARE SINCE 1962

PREVENTIVE • RESTORATIVE • COSMETIC

Hours: Mon., Wed. & Fri. 8-5 Tues. & Thurs. 8-7 Sat. by Appt.

Implants • Crowns • Bridges • Emergency Dentistry

79 MAPLE STREET, EAST LONGMEADOW, MA

(413) 525-6821

www.scannellandhollinger.com 46 GO LOCAL APRIL 2017

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860-477-1054 (860) 477-1054 HILLTOP restaurant & bar Elegant

Hilltop Restaurant & Bar offers Dinner & Lunch Traditional Italian dishes, Seafood Specialties, Steaks, Prime Rib, Burgers, Wraps, Grinders, Salads, Sandwiches & a Variety of Pizzas for Lunch & take out.

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39 Adamec Rd. • Willington, CT | www.hilltopct.net GOLOCALMAGAZINES.COM 47

48 GO LOCAL April 2017

! AMBER WAKLEY  J ACQUELINE M. SIDOR, JMS ART & PHOTO

hether the thermometer reads 29 or 79, it’s very likely that disc golf is in season. Much like the trusty U.S. Postal Service, neither snow nor rain nor heat nor gloom of night strays these players from the swift completion of appointed rounds. It’s with this same dedication that Davis Johnson and Dan Hale approach the sport. As co-founders of the 18-hole course at Crane Hill Disc Golf Course in Wilbraham, Massachusetts, they are just two of the many enthusiasts representing this viral sport.

According to the Professional Disc Golf Association, the object of the game is to traverse a course from beginning to end in the fewest number of throws of the disc. Similar to traditional golf, play begins at a tee, a large rectangular pad facing the direction of the “basket,” or target. Players can throw backhand or sidearm in order to get the disc as close as possible. As a player progresses down the fairway, he or she must make each consecutive throw from the spot where the previous throw has landed; the player with the fewest strokes to the basket wins.

GOLOCALMAGAZINES.COM 49

Davis, with an inherent passion, serves as a sort of disc golf historian; he began throwing discs in 1965, when frisbees first came out and he became fanatic about the activity. As a baseball player, his long distance throw was hard to beat – he held the long distance frisbee world record for the better part of the 70s with a throw of over 400 feet.

“People have been scaling things like lids and cookie tin covers forever. This is from the Frisbie Pie Company of Connecticut in Bridgeport,” explains Davis as he runs his fingers across the dimpled edges of his very own patinaed pie pan to explain the origins of the sport. “They distributed pies in tins like this all over Connecticut, Massachusetts and throughout Southern New England. The Yale kids got hold of them and began throwing them around. Because they had sharp edges they would yell, “frisbie” when they came close to somebody.”

Fred Morrison invented a plastic version, The Pluto Platter, in the early 1950s. Wham-O, a California based company, started selling his discs and began marketing efforts on the East Coast.

When they got here they saw all the kids were calling them not Pluto Platters, but Frisbies. So Wham-O changed the name to “EE” and Frisbees were born. It was Ed Headrick, the claimed “Father of Disc Golf,” who took the Pluto Platter with the vision to create a sport, rather than a pastime at the beach. He invented the Pro, a model that was a heavier and more stable version of

50 GO LOCAL APRIL 2017

the original.

Davis has been grounded and connected in the sport for over fifty years and through the umbrella organization, NEFA (New England Flying Disc Association), he heard that a disc golf course was slated for Crane Park. Living in close proximity, he was more than happy to jump on board with the project.

Dan was the guy behind the project proposed to the Parks and Rec Department, inquiring if they would be interested in putting in a disc golf course at the Spec Pond facility they were working on at the time. With the final plan already in place, Dan was encouraged to check out a property on Crane Hill Road.

After completing research at the assessor’s office, Dan learned the property was an approximately 25-acre municipal parcel surrounded by conservation land to the north, west and south. Dan and Davis began walking the property, orienting themselves to the best possible layout of a course.

They began meeting with all the town boards, making presentations about disc golf and writing proposals for the project. An ongoing initiative, they later received a community preservation grant to fund the basket and tee pads. In 2008 the disc golf course was completed.

Just off Route 20, Crane Hill is a mix of open and wooded, up and downhill shots. The free-to-play course contains a few field holes, but is mostly arranged throughout the woods. Courses

like this are set up using the landscape and natural hazards. At Crane Hill, for example, a stream serves as an out-of-bounds point (OB), and players must take a stroke for going over.

Before taking a practice shot, Davis opens his bag. Inside is filled with a menagerie of discs, all varied in size and color. Each represents a specific purpose. Similar to golf clubs, they vary in weight and circumference to achieve maximum distance or accuracy. There are four primary types: maximum disc drivers, control drivers, mid-range discs, and putt and approach. While circumference does vary slightly, based on a weight to diameter ratio dictated by the PDGA standards board, the profile of the disc and the shape of the rim is more what dictates the disc flight characteristics.

While disc golf has exploded nationally over the past few years - with courses popping up across the country - it remains a tight knit community despite its phenomenon. Crane Hill is no exception.

“You can pretty much go anywhere in the country and find a disc golf course where you instantly meet someone to play with - you essentially make friends wherever you go,” explains Dan. “There’s a whole community within the frisbee family. It’s happening at disc golf courses all over, there’s just a special vibe and feel from really considerate, generous people,” says Davis.

This kindness is demonstrated through organized spontaneous

workdays in the spring, while others - who are often out everyday - shovel and salt the tees in the winter, and with additional volunteers who help with seasonal cleanup. Events like the Annual Ice Bowl Tournament is a charity event to raise money and canned goods for the Food Bank of Western Massachusetts.

“This year we raised $1,578 and a little over 620 pounds of food,” says Dan. “76 competitors braved the cold to play two rounds of golf; we have a very strong community.”

In terms of demographics the sport holds no bounds, attracting players from a broad range of ages, professions and backgrounds.

It’s a beautiful melting pot of kindred spirits who share a love for the game and outdoors. Davis and Dan, both passionate and skilled players, admit that disc golf can become an obsession - and if you know a disc golfer this trait is common. But at Crane Hill it’s not just the experience of playing on a picturesque course nestled in the quiet woods, it’s about centering your life on something positive.

“This is all volunteer work, the dedication and participation of a lot of people. It’s impressive how people pull together here,” says Davis. “People are really generous with big hearts in this community. There’s a certain spirit of the sport. Fred Morrison was filled with this spirit of irreverence and fun and you can see how that idea has been passed down from generation to generation.

It’s beautiful.”

WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/CRANEHILLDISCGOLFCOURSE CRANE HILL RD, WILBRAHAM, MA 01095

GOLOCALMAGAZINES.COM 51

We have the Lowest Prices even Big Box & Warehouse Club Stores Cannot Sell Below our Prices!

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105 S. Main Street (Rt. 5) East Windsor, CT 860.623.8296 • 800.842.8968 www.stantoneq.com 52 GO LOCAL April 2017

go local picks

COOL STUFF JUST OUTSIDE YOUR DOOR

PYSANKY EGG WORKSHOPS SCANTIC VALLEY FARM • 860-749-3286 • FACEBOOK.COM/SCANTICVALLEYFARM

Scantic Valley Farm will be teaching the art of Pysanky- Ukrainian Easter Eggs in four different workshops this spring. The method is similar to batik - patterns are drawn on the egg with wax, which then protects the covered areas from the dye that is applied. By repeating this process with different colors of dye, a multi-colored pattern is built up. Finally, the wax is removed to reveal the colors that were covered up at each stage. Participants will transform and take home their farm fresh egg that they create into a beautiful work of art! The class is $30 a person - all sup-

plies are included, no experience necessary, but preregistration is required because class size is limited. Call today 860-749-3286.

SUNDAY, APRIL 9 SCOUT HALL YOUTH CTR, 28 ABBE RD, EAST WINDSOR, CT • 1:30-4:30PM MONDAY, APRIL 10 SCANTIC VALLEY FARM • 327 NINTH DISTRICT RD, SOMERS, CT • 10AM-1PM WEDNESDAY, APRIL 12 TOLLAND AGRICULTURAL CENTER • 24 HYDE AVE, VERNON, CT • 10AM-1PM POWDER HOLLOW BREWERY • 504 HAZARD AVE, ENFIELD, CT • 6-8PM

GOLOCALMAGAZINES.COM 53

 J ACQUELINE M. SIDOR,

JMS ART & PHOTO

It's April, yay! The month of April provides so much excitement and anticipation of a warm spring and the adventure that it brings.

I know it isn't far off now because we have started counting the daffodil greens that are beginning to pop through the soil in our flowerbeds. We notice each pop of green and pause to count; we get more and more hopeful that sunny days and outdoor play are just around the corner! The month of April in our house not only brings us a visit from the Easter Bunny, but also a birthday celebration. We will soon have a five year old in the house - and he has not let us forget that his birthday can't come and go without a celebration (or three)!

Birthdays in our house have become a bit of a thing. They always come with a birthday breakfast in some form or another and usually a gift to start the day. There are always cake and candles and at some point during the birthday month, a party with friends. Our kids' parties have evolved to be theme driven, chosen by the birthday boy, and usually includes theme inspired games and cake. As I start to think about another birthday celebration and the planning that comes with it, I realize this birthday tradition has almost become a hobby. Usually games and cakes are homemade, and we 54 GO LOCAL APRIL 2017

scheme game ideas and decorations together as a family over dinner or in the car when we are with the birthday boy. At night after the boys go to bed the planning continues with just the adults, building off of what was brainstormed together. I think we start to look forward to the day nearly as much as the birthday boy. It's so much fun to see the party unravel and watch the birthday boy enjoy his day surrounded by friends and fun! Does party planning count as a hobby?

This brings me to wonder - what is a hobby? What does it mean for us as parents, us as a family and for our children? Is the successful definition of a hobby one that we can all share together as a family? Or are hobbies – when it comes to parenting – subjected to times when we drive our children to events like soccer games or dance classes where we sit on the side cheering, watching, and waiting for them to finish and it's [finally] time to head home? Is a hobby more important now in the pre-school/elementary stages or when they get older? When I start to really think about hobbies it seems that as a parent and a family, hobbies are a big deal, potentially a big responsibility!

Thinking about the hobbies that can be picked up again now that

spring is here, I immediately think of activities our entire family can do together. This is the real challenge given the six-year age span of our children and many families. Bike riding and camping are the first two hobbies that come to mind which we look forward to revisiting with the arrival of spring. These are two options that are adaptable for the whole family, get us outside and bring great enjoyment for all of us. I also hope that these are two hobbies that will be adaptable as our family grows through different ages and stages that we have yet to encounter. I would feel accomplished if our boys continue to enjoy bike riding as a hobby well into their adult years and if they get excited with the arrival of spring due to the fact that it means camping season has arrived again.

At first it may seem like you don't have any hobbies that you can share with your children or that the family can engage in together, but if you start to catalogue the activities that you like to do in your spare time, you will probably find it isn't too hard to loop the whole family in. You may have to adapt the experience a little to facilitate shorter attention spans or an inability to 'keep up' depending on your child or hobby of choice. But looking at your hobby creatively may also be a chance to re-experience your hobby from a child's perspective, possibly slowing it down or taking a momentary pause to – for example –notice an intricately ornate leaf, bugs walking across sticks and ants on an afternoon march; details you just might have missed if you decided to speed walk your way through the neighborhood or up that hiking trail you have traversed one hundred times already.

It’s never too late to begin a hobby with the ones you care about.

Maybe you can look to friends or extended family for inspiration.

Possibly encourage your child to bring the family into a hobby that has always had them curious or begin a new hobby in a completely uncharted area that has peaked someone's interest.

Spring brings new hope, new spirit and vitality for life that shouldn't be overlooked. Embrace it and channel it into a new hobby, activity or entertainment the whole family can engage in and talk about for years to come!

GARDENING/COOKING Kids love taco night? Grow your own lettuce, tomatoes, scallions and basil to add to your dinner. The kids can help tend the garden and pick the veggies when they're ready.

MAKING MUSIC Try making your own instruments. Spoons, straws, tupperware containers, old pots and pans, even used bottle caps can be turned into music makers. Go to Pinterest.com and search for 'homemade instruments.' You'll be like the Partridge family before you know it.

START A COLLECTION Whether it's gathering shells at the beach or a certain color rock, collecting things you love will spark joy all year long. Display in a beautiful basket or glass jar for all to admire.

PHOTOGRAPHY/SCRAPBOOKING What better way to preserve the hundreds of photos on your phone than to create a scrapbook? Print photos and gather supplies from a craft store or use items from around the house.

GEOCACHING An outdoor treasure hunting game using a GPS-enabled device.

Participants navigate to a specific set of GPS coordinates and then attempt to find the geocache (container) hidden at that location.

Learn more at geocache.com BIKING/WALKING TRAILS Windsor Locks Canal Trail • 1200 Canal Rd, Suffield, CT This 4.5 mile trail offers numerous scenic views of the Connecticut River and the Windsor Locks Canal. For more info, go to ct.gov Robinson State Park • 428 North St, Feeding Hills, MA Approximately 20 miles of trails with scenic views of the Westfield River. For more info, go to mass.gov VOLUNTEERING VolunteerMatch.org can help find the perfect non-profit for you.

Simply plug in your interests and location and they will give you a list of volunteer opportunities in your area.

STARGAZING Grab a blanket on a warm evening and check out the stars. The Big Dipper and Polaris are just waiting to be discovered. Find maps and helpful hints at dustbunny.com SPORTS/EXERCISE/GAMES From basketball to yoga and old retro games like 4-square or capture the flag, start up an impromptu game anytime of the day.

Pinterest.com is a great place for idea starters!

As a full-time mom and professional from Wilbraham, CARLY LUDBROOK is navigating this thing called motherhood and parenthood with three beautiful boys.

After being told (time after time) that she actually had four boys (four included her spirited, young at heart husband!) her blog, ‘Daddy Makes Four’ was born.

Carly brings her adventures to print by sharing ideas, real-life stories and optimistic humor to the pages of Go Local - after all - us parents are all in this together!

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56 GO LOCAL April 2017

(L TO R) JONI BEDARD, DARYL BASCH, JOHN AND SUE LEAVITT, PATRICK SOUCY, BILL BRAUN, KIM AND TIM NURSE

It’s truly extraordinary what a group of dedicated, passionate people can accomplish

together. This is remarkably true for the group of local volunteers rallying together to support “Hope of Honduras Children’s Home.” The initiative began with Jeff Braun, who was adopted as a baby by the Braun family in Stafford. After graduation Jeff dreamed of joining the military and starting an orphanage in his homeland of Honduras. While serving our country on the battlefield of Iraq, Jeff never let his vision slip away. From Iraq, he began to communicate, via e-mail, with Hope International Ministries to inquire about their endeavors of building the “Hope of Honduras Children’s Home.” Tragically, after only 3 months in Iraq, he was killed at the age of 19 in 2003. In his honor, The Jeff Braun Children’s Home Foundation was formed after he passed and has become a tribute to all who serve and continue to serve in our armed services.

GOLOCALMAGAZINES.COM 57

Although Jeff did not live to see his aspirations come true, his community is helping to make it happen, a zealous group of volunteers - Joni Bedard, Daryl Basch, John and Sue Leavitt, Patrick Soucy, Bill Braun (Jeff’s father), Kim and Tim Nurse – continue to make it a reality.

Sue Leavitt, who had Jeff as a student in the Witt School Children’s Choir, was compelled to be involved since the beginning. She and her husband, John, began with a “Jeff Braun Foundation Tag Sale” in July of 2004, the following spring they held their first auction – which still continues today.

Over the last 13 years, Keep Jeff’s Dream Alive events have raised over $193,000 in memory of Jeff. In 2011, the first residential cottage was completed and the Coats, a missionary family, have taken up residence there. The need for more spaces for children is overwhelming. Each week they have to turn away children because they have no more room. The present cottage was built for 12 children and now houses 22. The construction process of a new cottage is progressing quite well, but there is still a need for funds for its completion as well as the furnishings needed.

“Seeing the progress has made us even stronger believers in the success of the project,” says John Leavitt. “As more and more people have gotten involved it’s one of these things that has snowballed and taken on a life of it’s own. We have seen so many positive results, more than we could have ever imagined.”

Many of the volunteers of this group have visited Honduras to see the efforts of their good work. Today, children are fed three solid meals a day, have been provided a palatial place to live, and are also receiving an education where they are learning Spanish and English. Food, clothing, shelter, and a faith in God were the key elements that Jeff wanted to offer to these needy children. Seeing the progress here has only motivated this group of local volunteers to do more.

On Saturday, April 29th at 6:00pm the annual “Keep Jeff’s Dream Alive Benefit Beer and Wine Tasting with Auction” will take place at Golden Gavel Auctions in East Windsor, Connecticut. Sponsored by the Family Academy of Music and Preschool of the Arts, the event will feature an abundant spread of chef prepared Caribbean style hors d’oeuvres, a beer and wine tasting and conclude with an auction at 7:00pm. Auction items and gifts have been donated by area businesses and feature everything from gift certificates to sports memorabilia.

Tickets are $20 per person, and all proceeds go to fund the new construction currently underway in Honduras.

“I’m a firm believer of giving back and thought this would be great opportunity to do so,” says Pat Soucy, event auctioneer and owner of Golden Gavel. “It’s also a way to respect Jeff and his family. When someone loses someone like that there’s not a lot you can do, but you can give back – and that’s powerful.”

“This has snowballed so far from where we were in the beginning,” says Bill Braun. “It was Jeff’s dream to give something back to Honduras, but he never really had a chance to finalize how he could do it. It’s this group of people and volunteers that have made his dream possible; there is a cottage with his picture on a plaque outside and it’s helping about 22 kids, but there’s still so much need down there for these children. You can see how these kids are turning into outstanding people that they wouldn’t have become if it weren’t for this organization and group of people. It’s pretty neat.”

Tickets for the dinner or more information is available by calling Sue or John Leavitt at (860) 836-0394 or contacting them via email at: susanleavitt@sbcglobal.net. Information about the home and informative videos about the progress of the new cottage are found on Facebook at: Hope of Honduras Children’s Home. Golden Gavel is located at 149 North Road #D in East Windsor, Connecticut.

58 GO LOCAL APRIL 2017

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142 North Road . East Windsor, CT . (860) 386-6727 . www.stirthepot.restaurant

e were greeted with an immediate smile walking into the door of Stir the Pot, an East Windsor restaurant I’ve been wanting to try for quite some time.

By the familiar nod from the waitress to many of its patrons, I knew this was a place where locals frequented - which is always a good sign. I’ve heard nothing but positive feedback about STP Restaurant, both in person and online. The U-shape counterstyle diner (my favorite) offered ample seating at both booths and tables.

Slipping into the booth, I was excited to see the options - after all breakfast is my favorite - but very rarely do I enjoy the opportunity to order the meal from a menu. While many diners offer a predictable menu, I was pleasantly surprised by the offerings at STP. First, it wasn’t overloaded with a million options, just the right amount of hearty dishes to start the day.

The plates that went by our table were beautiful, creative concoctions, artfully assembled, that you don’t typically see this early in the morning. Their savory weekend specials included a Philly Cheese Steak Omelet - filled with Philly cheese steak, mushrooms, cheddar cheese and topped with cheddar sauce - as well as Shepard’s Pie Benedict - two poached eggs atop a bed of mashed potatoes, creamed corn and ground beef topped with hollandaise sauce and gravy. On the sweeter side, carefully

assembled Banana Pancake Dippers - banana halves dipped in pancake batter, grilled and served with chocolate sauce - as well as Boston Waffles served with crumbled graham crackers, Bavarian cream and chocolate drizzle. Of course, if you choose to start your day more simply, classic dishes like eggs and toast or tasty sandwiches are also options.

We were on a omelet mission and while several others piqued our interest, like BLT and Dave’s Benefit, we ordered the Jordan’s Portobelo Mushroom Omelet (portabella mushroom, Asiago cheese, tomatoes with balsamic glaze, rye toast and home fries), and Roasted Pork Carnita Omelet with garlic roasted pork, pepper jack cheese and a chipotle drizzle (we also added spinach).

Both were delicious and perfectly stuffed, with fresh and flavorful ingredients. I was pretty excited to see actual shavings of Asiago sprinkled on the plate; the roasted pork was also absolutely delicious. The potatoes - best crispy in my book - were just that and clearly cut by hand.

On the other side of the menu, lunch options - which are served until 2:00pm - look as inviting as their breakfast counterparts.

From melts to unexpected hard roll sandwiches and salads, I’m excited for a return visit. They are also known for Thursday night All-You-Can-Eat Pasta Bar, amazing weekend specials and fast, friendly service. Kudos to Stir the Pot! GOLOCALMAGAZINES.COM 61

Be part of Go Local

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TINY FLYERS With the arrival of warmer weather, spring begins to breathe life into delicate landscapes, causing valleys to burst into colorful bloom signifying a fresh start to life.

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Full of energy and curiosity, these tiny flyers serve as a reminder to unfold your wings, venture out into the world, and explore new possibilities.

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TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE - NO GOOGLING!

5

7

NATIONAL ARBOR DAY WAS FOUNDED BY JULIUS STERLING MORTON IN WHAT YEAR?

[A] “Diamonds & Rust” by Joan Baez [B] “Lucy in the Sky with Diamonds” by the Beatles

[C] “Diamonds” by Rihanna

[D] “Diamonds are a Girl’s Best Friend” by Ethel Merman

[A] 1872 [B] 1885 [C] 1915

[D] 1933

WHAT DOES THE NAME APRIL MEAN?

WHICH OF THE FOLLOWING FLOWERS IS NOT EDIBLE?

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[C] To Begin

[D] To Open

[A] Buttercup [B] Dandelion

[C] Rose

[D] Pansy

NAME THIS FLOWER WE ARE ALWAYS HAPPY TO SEE HERE IN NEW ENGLAND EVERY SPRING.

THE IDEA TO CELEBRATE EARTH DAY CAME TO FOUNDER GAYLORD NELSON AFTER WITNESSING WHAT EVENT?

[A] Daffodil [B] Iris

[C] Crocus [D] Tulip

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[C]

[D]

WHAT QUARTERBACK DID TOM BRADY REPLACE IN 2001, EVENTUALLY LEADING THE PATRIOTS TO A SUPER BOWL CHAMPIONSHIP?

8

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[D]

BAMBOO IS THE FASTEST-GROWING WOODY PLANT IN THE WORLD; IT CAN GROW HOW MUCH IN ONE DAY?

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1953 Toxic Waste Dump in Love Canal, NY 1978 Oil Spill by Amoco Cadiz at Portsall Rocks 1976 Dioxin Gas Leak in Seveso, Italy 1969 Oil Spill in Santa Barbara, CA

9 11 15 16

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RANK

7-9 5-7 2-4 0-1

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Prodigy Egghead Meh Simpleton

ANSWERS:

1)B 2)A 3)D 4)A 5)C 6)D 7)C 8)D 9)B

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The Final Countdown

7 Local Theatre Groups Whether you are a die hard romantic, enjoy hilarious comedies or nail biting dramas - you’re sure to find something to float your boat by one of these local theatre groups. What a better way to

support your community than to see a play performed right in your own backyard. Escape your own life for a few hours and immerse yourself in an exceptional local performance.

SOMERS VILLAGE PLAYERS

(860) 265-3342 • SOMERSVILLAGEPLAYERS.ORG FACEBOOK.COM/SOMERSVILLAGEPLAYERS The Village Players were founded in 1971 by a group of dedicated Somers residents. They will be performing the hilarious show The Fox on the Fairway April 7 and 8 at Joanna’s Cafe in Somers. Call or visit their website for tickets.

SUFFIELDYOUTHTHEATER.ORG Suffield Youth Theater was founded in May of 2015 by a group of 8th grade students with a dream of producing a full length show all on their own.

They will be performing Burdens April 7-8 at Second Baptist Church of Suffield’s Fellowship Hall, 100 N Main St, Suffield.

THE SUFFIELD PLAYERS

ELLINGTON COMMUNITY THEATRE

MAPLETON HALL • (860) 668-0837 1305 MAPLETON AVE • SUFFIELD, CT SUFFIELDPLAYERS.ORG The Suffield Players is a non-profit community theatre company founded in 1952. In addition to their yearly productions, they host a summer youth theatre camp.

They will be performing Chapter Two by Neil Simon this May.

RED DOOR THEATRE

152 S. WESTFIELD ST • FEEDING HILLS, MA (413) 789-2026 • REDDOORTHEATRE.COM The Red Door Theatre opened its doors in 1991.

They specialize in creating a warm, supportive environment for both kids and adults. From preschool and after school programs to theatre vacation camps and family and teen theatre, they have it all. Call or visit their website for upcoming shows.

66 GO LOCAL APRIL 2017

SUFFIELD YOUTH THEATER

THEATRE GUILD OF HAMPDEN

(413) 204-5333 • THEATREGUILDOFHAMPDEN.ORG Founded in 2005 by Mark Giza and Rick Rubin, the Theatre Guild of Hampden has been dedicated to providing quality theater experiences to audiences of all ages. Be sure to check out their performance of It’s Only A Play by Terence McNally opening April 28 at The Greenhouse, 2 Somers Road, Hampden, MA.

(860) 338-3038 ARTSFROMTHEHEART.NET Ellington Community Theatre is a joint effort between Arts from the Heart, Ellington Youth Services and Ellington Parks and Recreation. See their production of Annie July 28-30 at Ellington High School.

OPERA HOUSE PLAYERS

BROAD BROOK OPERA HOUSE 107 MAIN ST • BROAD BROOK, CT • (860) 292-6068 OPERAHOUSEPLAYERS.ORG Founded in 1968, Opera House Players are one of the longest running community theatres in the area exclusively producing musical theater.

Their performances take place in the stunning Broad Brook Opera House which was built in 1892. Don’t miss Titanic running May 5-21.

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