For nearly five decades, the Double J Western Store has supplied the region and beyond with boots, hats, clothing and more. It all started in 1976 with two brothers, John and Joe. “That’s where the ‘Double J’ name came from,” said Brenda Hodge, who owns the store. “It started as a traveling store attending state fairs and horse-related events around the country, with a seasonal storefront during the holidays.”
FROM THE EDITOR LAUREN LEBEL
Spring is finally here!
A s I write this column in early March, the weather is a little over 50 degrees, which leaves me hopeful that the cold spells are behind us.
After a grueling winter, I could not have been happier than when I walked outside this morning and the crisp air smelt like spring.
A s the budding flowers replace the melted snow, it feels like a fresh start.
W hat I truly enjoy about spring is being able to finally ditch the parka and return to outdoor activities. From walking or biking, to visiting a winery or a cute brunch spot, spring in New England has so much to offer.
Something I am looking forward to this year is golf.
After years of my boyfriend asking me to join him for “just a round of nine” holes, I finally caved.
Typically, when he golfs, I am visiting a winery or a brunch spot — as previously mentioned — and I look forward to him being gone all day for that exact reason. But now I have a different outlook.
L ast summer, I agreed to play nine holes. Joined by my boyfriend, my sister and a friend, we visited my hometown course for an early morning tee time.
I had been to a driving range plenty of times — which I enjoy — but I was truly humbled when I realized I could not use the driver the entire time.
After many swings and misses, and several missing golf balls later, I made it through.
Admittedly, one of my favorite parts was driving the cart, but overall, it was a newfound appreciation of the game and spending quality time; making memories with some of the people I love.
Before the season ended, I went out once more to play another round of nine with my family. This time, I was much more comfortable and felt — or so I like to think — that I had improved.
Now that I have some experience under my belt, I am excited for the course to open to give it another shot. My goal this year is to play a full round of 18 holes … We shall see how that goes!
W hile golf can be fun, it is also a skilled game that takes patience and practice. Fortunately, it is a game that can be enjoyed by everyone – from beginners like me, to seasoned professionals.
This month’s magazine highlights some local courses in Massachusetts and Connecticut, along with golf leagues at Chicopee Country Club, and Dave DiRico’s Golf, a club fitting center and golf shop in West Springfield.
In addition to the golf section, April Go Local features Mr. Handyman of Enfield, Suffield and Coventry, a home repair business; Double J Western Store, a shop in West Springfield selling western boots, hats, apparel and more; and Connecticut FudgeWorks, an Ellington-based business that produces fresh, handmade fudge in small batches.
A s we embark on a new season, consider going out of your comfort zone and trying something new — whether it be playing golf, utilizing, or visiting one of these local businesses that you haven’t before.
Here’s to new beginnings!
Thanks for reading,
L auren LeBel, editor
Chris Maza
EDITOR
Lauren LeBel
CREATIVE
Beth Thurber, Manager
Susan Bartlett . Sophia Kelleher
Leigh Catchepaugh . Lorie Perry
ADVERTISING
Scott Greene, Manager
Jeanette Lee . Lisa Nolan
Matt Mahaney . Paul Poutre
Paula Dimauro . Evan Marcyoniak
Shannon Bliven . Roxanne Longtin Miller
Katerina Lopez . Andy Shaw
Carolyn Napolitan, Sales Assistant
Curtis Panlilio, Operations Director
Send local story ideas to:
Lauren LeBel: llebel@thereminder.com
!
SUBMITTED
When you’re a homeowner, there’s always something that needs to be done — from a small repair to a bigger fix.
And while there are many professionals out there who say they can do the job, not many are willing to take on the small repairs that the average homeowner faces.
That’s where Mr. Handyman of Suffield, Enfield and Coventry comes in. Owner Radu Nedelcu and his team of experienced professionals are ready to help homeowners keep their biggest investment in tip-top shape, whether the repair is a one-hour job or a full deck replacement.
“ We are home improvement contractors,” Nedelcu explained. “If it’s from the gutters down … if it’s broken … we want to fix your problem.”
Though Nedelcu himself is new to the home improvement business — he started his Mr. Handyman franchise in March of 2024 after 20 years in the U.S. Army — the multideployed vet said he’s assembled a team of expert craftsmen whom he sends out to handle whatever a client needs Mr. Handyman to do.
“Some of them have been in the business for 20 years [themselves], they’ve pretty much seen it all,” Nedelcu said, adding that all the workmen sent out by Mr. Handyman are “direct hires – we don’t do [subcontractors], they all work for Mr. Handyman.”
Nedelcu said his position is that of project manager for the work his Mr. Handman craftsmen — “we call them technicians,” he said — do for the client.
He also stressed that when Mr. Handyman contracts to do a job he makes sure “we have everything we need to get the job done, all the materials, everything on hand … because there have been supply issues since COVID … so we will make sure we have everything to get the job done in a client’s home or business.”
And though each of his technicians is experienced in all types of home repair work, Nedelcu said each one of his craftsmen does have a specialty.
“ We have guys that they kind of do a bit of everything, [but] we have one guy who is really good at sheetrock, we have another who is really good at any kind of door installation, and we have one guy who is really good with gutters, power washing and decks, so everybody has their strengths,” he shared.
Nedelcu said this wide range of skills is what makes a technician from Mr. Handyman the right choice for myriad home repair and maintenance projects.
Those repairs can range from “sheetrock repaired, replaced repatched … and everything to get it ready for paint” to deck repairs or replacements, Nedelcu said.
He explained that if a homeowner has a deck that is “getting older” but a quote for a full rebuild seems too pricey at the time, “we can remove part of the deck that at this point is kind of rotten … and we’ll fix that and that will add a few years of life to your deck and you won’t get hit with a bill that’s out of your [price range],” Nedelcu noted.
And, Nedelcu said, there’s no job that’s too big or too small
for Mr. Handyman to tackle, from “one hour to multi-day [jobs].”
“ We can look at your [repair] problem and come up with a solution … look at a problem and can break it down into smaller projects and work with you for scheduling,” Nedelcu added.
He said his team had recently taken this “smaller project” approach to the work a woman in Enfield needed to have done in her home. Over the years, she hadn’t done a lot of upkeep and had multiple repairs that needed attention, including damaged sheetrock and upkeep to the stairs leading to her basement.
“So, we said, ‘OK, let’s break this down to manageable bits,'" Nedelcu explained. “We addressed the repairs that [had] to be done right now and then started addressing other projects she wanted done.”
Among those other jobs was some attention to her kitchen cabinets. “We don’t have to rip out all your cabinets, just fix that and make it all match up,” Nedelcu said of how he presented the repair project. The Mr. Handyman team also did work in her living room, including replacing her door. The total for all the work came in around $20,000, but Nedelcu said this team was able to “break it up into smaller projects, the most expensive one being the door, with the cost of the labor it was several thousand dollars. The smallest project was $500 to $600, and we broke [the projects] up over a period of time so that she felt comfortable with [the cost.]”
He reiterated that Mr. Handyman is unique in that his craftsmen are willing to take on projects and break them down into manageable bites for the homeowner.
“I look at it from the optic that ‘hey, I’m a fellow homeown-
er and hey, I just need help’” to maintain my home, Nedelcu said.
Another service that sets Mr. Handyman apart from other home maintenance companies is their willingness to take on a project a homeowner has started and bring it to completion.
“ We love DIYers … do as much of the project as you can and then let us know where you are. We can jump in and help you get across the finish line, so you don’t have a bunch of 70% to 85% completed projects,” Nedelcu said. “Our whole [focus] is we want to fix your problems. We know there are plenty of projects out there that can be [completed] … so let me help you out.”
To build his business one customer relation at a time, Nedelcu said he’s focused on the three “R’s” of customer service.
“The first is, you always request a review,” he said, indicating he hopes customers will like Mr. Handyman and offer positive comments. The second “R” is for relationships — Nedelcu said Mr. Handyman “would love to be part of your home, or business, maintenance cycle.” The third “R” is referrals. “In this kind of business, referrals are everything because everyone wants to know the job was done the way you want it done,” Nedelcu said. “And that’s one of the things we try to do.” MR. HANDYMAN’S
For nearly five decades, the Double J Western Store has supplied the region and beyond with boots, hats, clothing and more.
It all started in 1976 with two brothers, John and Joe.
“That’s where the ‘Double J’ name came from,” said Brenda Hodge, who owns the store. “It started as a traveling store attending state fairs and horse-related events around the country, with a seasonal storefront during the holidays.”
Hodge began working for the brothers in 1990 at their booth at the Big E.
“I immediately fell in love and felt right at home with the western/cowboy culture,” said Hodge. “I grew up in Westfield, but I always joke that I must have been a cowboy in a past life! I worked for the brothers for 21 years until they retired in 2011. That’s when I purchased the business from them.”
Hodge said while she is the owner, Becca Winkler — her middle daughter — really keeps things running.
“She’s the store manager, but she has many titles and wears many hats,” Hodge said. “She’s not just on the sales floor with me and working with customers; she does most of the behind-the-scenes stuff as well. The not-so-fun but very necessary things like bookkeeping, inventory management, advertising, and merchandise ordering.”
Hodge’s sister Jill Taylor works seasonally as well. Hodge said her sister is “a real asset to our team and a wealth of knowledge about our Navajo and Zuni jewelry.”
W hile Hodge praised her daughter and sister, Winkler couldn’t say enough about her mother.
“She really knows her stuff,” Winkler said. “She’s a true boot-fitting professional. She understands the anatomy of a boot and how it’s supposed to work with your foot. There
are so many factors to getting a perfect fit, but a perfect fit is so important.”
She continued, “We always encourage customers to try on a lot of different styles and brands. They all fit a little different. Not every boot works for every foot. If you’ve had a foot injury or issue, that can affect how a boot fits. We will work with you to find the right boot. That’s something you really can’t get from ordering boots online.”
Double J Western Store has been on Riverdale Street in West Springfield for over 30 years in various locations. Since Hodge took ownership 14 years ago, the store has been at 1472 Riverdale St.
“ We no longer do the Big E,” she noted. “It just got to be too much, so we put all of our focus on the store only now. Our family is very passionate about this business. Not only have I been working here for 35 years, but Becca has worked here off and on over the years in some capacity as well.
“As a teenager, she would come and help work the Big E. She was always available to work at the store when needed. Over the last 15 years, she has photographed and designed almost all of our ads and commercials — she was always around and willing to help.”
Winkler joined Double J Western full-time in 2018.
“I love being able to work with my daughter,” Hodge said. “I have three girls and we are all very close. Being able to work with one of them is really special. My two grandchildren, Jesse and Carleigh-Ann, love to come help out on weekends as well. They like to help wipe mirrors, break down boxes and dust the boot racks.”
Hodge said Taylor works at the store from May through October. Two of her other sisters, Judy and Jayne, have also worked there over the years. “It’s definitely a family
business,” Hodge said.
W hile not related by blood, many Double J Western customers have become part of the family over the years. Winkler said their core customer base is made up mostly of working folks looking for functional, quality boots and apparel.
“However, we do have a wide scope of customers who shop with us. We work with people from all walks of life,” she said. “We see blue-collar workers looking for comfortable, properly fit boots for work. We have suit and tie customers looking for a dressy pair of boots that work with their wardrobe. There are concert attendees that need a great hat to top off their outfit and we help many local country and rock musicians that need the perfect shirt to wear on stage.”
In addition, technical school students who need a pair of boots for shop class and 4-H members who need boots to wear at the barn or shows are frequent customers.
“ We even have fashionistas looking for the perfect pair of boots to go with a certain outfit, just because,” Winkler said. “And let’s not forget the brides! We have helped so many brides and grooms outfit their entire wedding party for their wedding. We get to meet so many amazing people, from many different backgrounds and we love to get to know them and their stories. And many are repeat customers, so it’s like having old friends come back to visit.”
Hodge has seen many regular customers grow up in her almost four decades in the business.
“ We have customers who were coming in as children with their parents, who are now adults coming in with their own children. It’s pretty special,” Hodge said. “We have many customers who are transplants to Massachusetts from other parts of the country. They’re often surprised to find a western store here, but many are grateful that we are here, and they feel right at home with us.”
Hodge said even though Double J Western has been in West Springfield for years, people continue to discover the shop for the first time.
“People are always excited to find us,” said Winkler.
Consumer demands haven’t changed too much over the years. It just depends on what the end goal is for each customer.
“Most people really just want a good selection of great quality, functional pieces. And we have that,” said Winkler, noting that ‘Cowboy style’ has definitely gained popularity more recently thanks to shows like Yellowstone, 1883, 1923, Heartland, Longmire and Landman to name a few.
“New England isn’t exactly known as ‘Cowboy Country’ but these shows have certainly helped peak interest with people who may not have even thought twice about western attire otherwise,” she added. “Also, the mainstream country music and artists gaining popularity recently has also brought in a stream of customers who are new to this, as they put it. From the Lainey Wilson fans looking for a flatbrimmed hat and fringed clothing to the Chris Stapleton
fans looking for a feather banded hat. And let’s not forget the Taylor Swift fans searching for blinged-out cowboy boots.”
This spring, Double J Western has lots of bling and fun colors with ladies’ boots, including rhinestones, studs and lots of colors. Fringe is still in, as well as turquoise statement pieces. Hodge said cowboy hats in every color are going to be huge for spring and men’s boots get a pop of color as well but are still classic enough to wear daily.
“Color and prints are in for men’s shirts as well, including western-inspired plaid,” Winkler said. “We are coming into prom and wedding season. We see many customers searching for the perfect pair of boots to match their dress or suit. Come in and see us, we would love to help — bring a picture or bring your outfit with you. Special occasions are our favorite.”
Double J Western also offers a line of “exotic” boots, including python, cobra, full quill ostrich, smooth ostrich, shark caiman tail and caiman belly and Teju lizard.
Double J Western may be known for its boots, but the store has a full line of apparel including cowboy hats, men’s and ladies’ jeans, shirts and apparel, leather jackets, belts, buckles, children’s boots, one-of-a-kind hand-crafted Navajo and Zuni jewelry, leather care items, leather purses and wallets and more.
“ We also carry a special selection of English riding apparel,” said Hodge. “We literally have something for everyone. We pride ourselves on the customer service we provide our customers. We are here to help properly fit you for a new pair of boots. Proper fit is the most important thing.
“ Western boots don’t fit the same way a lace up sneaker would and the size isn’t always the same either. We love to educate our customers, especially those new to cowboy boots. We really take the time to work with you to achieve the perfect fit. The same rings true to fitting hats. And we stand by our products. We are always here to answer questions and offer suggestions.”
Double J Western doesn’t just treat their customers like family, they embrace the entire community by giving back. They have donated to many causes, including yearly item donation for Christina’s House auction fundraiser, they will be a second-year Show Sponsor for Westfield Riding Club, Inc., and they are a donation can location for Happily Evans After Rescue, to name a few. The store also has discounts for Military/First Responders, 4-H members, and also offer a discount for equestrian friends if they “Name Your Barn” at checkout.
VISIT THE STORE AT 1472 RIVERDALE ST., SUITE C WEST SPRINGFIELD, ONLINE AT DOUBLEJWESTERN.COM, AND ON FACEBOOK.
CURRENT HOURS ARE TUESDAY AND WEDNESDAY FROM 10 A.M. TO 4 P.M., THURSDAY FROM 10 A.M. TO 7 P.M., FRIDAY AND SATURDAY FROM 10 A.M. TO 4 P.M. AND SUNDAY FROM 12 TO 4 P.M.
COOL STUFF JUST OUTSIDE YOUR DOOR
AMELIA PARK ARENA
21 SOUTH BROAD ST . WESTFIELD, MA
APRIL 4 - APRIL 6
Come out and support Amelia Park Arena as they host the Annual New England Sled Hockey Tournament. Teams from all across the country will compete in four different divisions in a quest for a championship. Sled Hockey players are some of the most incredible athletes on the planet, you're not going to want to miss this!
Admission is free to the public.
For more information visit: ameliaparkarena.org/sledhockey
SOLE SYNDICATE BREWING
100 STATE ST, STOCKHOUSE 122 • LUDLOW, MA
APRIL 12 2PM-4PM & 6PM-8PM
On April 12, Lisa Lanno invites you to join her for an intimate session sheltered in the vintage brewhouse walls of Sole Syndicate Brewing. During the course of the 2 hour session, Lisa will bring messages from the Other Side, connecting with loved ones passed. Two sessions available. Doors open for table service one hour before each session (at 1 p.m. and 5 p.m.) Tickets are $30. Reserve your spot now with a deposit of $15 (+ tax and fees), then pay $15 in cash when you get there. CASH ONLY. Proceeds benefit the Ronald McDonald House of Springfield, MA.
For tickets and more information visit: https://tinyurl.com/3jspakzw
CONNECTICUT TROLLEY MUSEUM
58 NORTH ROAD . EAST WINDSOR, CT
APRIL 12-13, 18-19 • 10AM - 4PM
Get ready for an EGGstraordinary Easter Adventure of festive fun! The Easter Bunny will be hopping around for photos from 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. Egg-citing Crafts and Surprises, Easter Movie & Exhibits and Fire Truck Museum Access. $13 per person (ages 2+), children under 2 ride free. (lap seating required). Museum Members receive 50% off admission. Easter EGGspress Trolley is held rain or shine. Tickets are for admission to the Trolley Museum and a specific departure time for the trolley ride. Please arrive 15 minutes prior to your selected departure time
For tickets and more information visit: https://tinyurl.com/3sc6j2sy
So
Your favorite breakfast foods
2 1/4 Cups All Purpose Flour
1/4 cup sugar
1 Tbsp baking powder
3/4 tsp salt
2 cups milk
1/2 cup unsalted butter
2 large eggs
2 tsp vanilla
1/2 cup brown sugar
1 tbsp cinnamon
2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
For the waffles, preheat your waffle iron.
In a small bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of melted butter, brown sugar and cinnamon and set aside. In a large mixing bowl, and your dry ingredients and mix, melt your half cup of butter, add that and your wet ingredients to your to a medium sized mixing bowl and whisk.
Pour wet ingredients into dry and stir to combine. Add some waffle batter to your iron and add a little bit of your brown sugar mixture, cover with more waffle batter and cook until golden brown, place on a wire rack to cool.
Add those and all of your favorite breakfast items to a serving platter, kind of like a charcuterie but a brunch board! Scramble eggs, bacon, sausage, potatoes, waffles, fruit ... whatever you like.
Have fun with it and enjoy!
The art of baking comes in various forms, with different products created through a unique process. At Connecticut FudgeWorks, the family-owned and operated business has perfected its niche craft, generating fresh and creamy homemade fudge for all.
Connecticut FudgeWorks was established in February 2022 by John and Maureen Virkler, but the couple’s passion for making and selling fudge goes back to 2008 when they opened a store in Illinois.
W hen the Virklers moved back to Connecticut and sold their Illinois business, Maureen said it was always in the back of her mind to make and sell fudge in Connecticut.
The Virkler’s son, Josh, owns LuAnn’s Bakery & Cafe in Ellington. “When he [Josh] opened his cafe, I thought, ‘Oh that’d be great to have fudge in there also,’” Maureen said, however, due to room constraints, space did not allow it.
Fast forward two years, Josh purchased a bigger production facility, which had lots of kitchen space. With the new space and Maureen’s continued desire to make fudge, she thought of renting space from her son and establishing her kitchen.
“Three years later, this is where we are,” Maureen said, reflecting on how the business began and grown ever since.
“The idea was, though, that it would be kind of a little
retirement job for us,” John said. “It just got a little bigger than that, a little sooner than we thought. But that’s not a bad problem to have.”
W hen it comes to making the fudge, Maureen explained that she starts the process at the beginning of the week. Using an electric water-blanketed kettle, the ingredients for each batch are mixed together to produce 30 to 35 pounds of either a vanilla or chocolate fudge base.
From there, the fudge is divided into 6-pound portions and other ingredients are added, such as cookie pieces for cookies and cream fudge or peanut butter for peanut butter fudge. The fudge is then poured into pans to set for 24 hours before being cut into ½-pound pieces and packaged for retail sale.
Packaging and delivery to customers normally take place at the end of the week.
Connecticut FudgeWorks works with MCM Fundraising, a Connecticut-based food products supplier, to sell their fudge, which John noted is their “largest customer.”
In addition to MCM Fundraising, Connecticut FudgeWorks — in season — sells its products at the Ellington Farmers Market on Saturdays. They also have about 25 retail stores throughout central Connecticut. A complete list of the retail stores can be found on their website.
Connecticut FudgeWorks also offers online sales and can ship to anywhere in the United States.
Maureen shared that they have about 20 to 25 “set flavors” that are offered, in addition to seasonal flavors. For instance, for spring, Maureen said she is looking into making a key lime fudge, caramel coconut fudge, chocolate with pastel M&M’s and other flavors with “spring-type vibes.”
For the weekly farmers market, they create a featured flavor that is “special” or “different,” Maureen noted.
In the summer, John said some popular fudge flavors have been raspberry lemonade and orange cream, and for the Strawberry Festival, a strawberry cheesecake flavor, for example.
“ We’ll try to theme it for what the theme of the market is that week,” John said.
Maureen added that there is a “dill pickle market,” to which they created a dill pickle cheesecake fudge. “It was very popular,” she said, recalling the flavor that she was originally nervous to make. She noted that she made double what she would normally make for a specialty fudge and it sold out.
“People like novelty,” John said. “Especially for something like that festival.”
The most popular flavored fudge is the classic chocolate. Some other top contenders are chocolate peanut butter, salted caramel, dark chocolate sea salt caramel and cappuccino — a relatively new flavor.
In the fall — Connecticut Fudgeworks’ busiest time of year — the most popular flavors are pumpkin pie and caramel apple pie, and around Christmas; peppermint and candy cane fudge.
Connecticut FudgeWorks also does weddings, bridal showers and other events, along with making charcuterie boards. For a special event — such as a wedding or shower — John shared that the fudge is often used as a guest or table favor, and placed in little sachet bags with a message. He noted that these offerings are something they hope to “capitalize down on” a little more this year.
“ We like to think of our business as just overall, making people happy,” John shared. “Providing a product that gives people something to smile about.”
CONNECTICUT FUDGEWORKS CAN BE FOUND ONLINE AT CTFUDGEWORKS.COM, AS WELL AS FACEBOOK AND INSTAGRAM @CTFUDGEWORKS. JOHN SAID THEY POST REGULARLY ON BOTH PLATFORMS, AND PEOPLE CAN MESSAGE THEM DIRECTLY THROUGH SOCIAL MEDIA OR ON THEIR WEBSITE WITH QUESTIONS ABOUT PRODUCTS, LOOKING TO MAKE A SPECIAL ORDER, WEDDING INQUIRIES AND MORE.
ALTHOUGH CONNECTICUT FUDGEWORKS DOES NOT HAVE A STOREFRONT, MAUREEN SAID IF ANYONE WANTS A CERTAIN FLAVOR, THEY CAN MAKE IT AND BRING IT TO LUANN’S BAKERY FOR PICK UP AS IT’S RIGHT DOWN THE STREET FROM THEIR PRODUCTION FACILITY.
Golfers hoping to finally sink that elusive hole-in-one this season have plenty of opportunities to make that ultimate shot at inviting, pristine public and private courses throughout Massachusetts and Connecticut. W hile we cannot guarantee a comprehensive list of all Massachusetts and Connecticut golf courses, here is our guide to some favorite local spots to tee off from:
65 Sunnyside Rd. · Southwick theranchgolfclub.com
Scorecard:
Located at the foothills of the picturesque Berkshires. In Golf World's 2010 Readers' Choice Awards, The Ranch Golf Club was voted in the top 50 of all public golf courses. Each hole a stunning new picture; a new challenge of risk and reward. Beyond the 18th hole, a full practice facility awaits golfers and the Ranch Pub House offers a relaxing dining experience.
619 Dwight Rd. · Springfield vets-franconia-golf.com
Scorecard:
One of two Springfield Municipal Golf Courses, Franconia is an 18-hole public golf course that measures 6,213 yards from the longest tees and has a slope rating of 118 and a 69.7 USGA rating. The course features three sets of tees for different skill levels. The facility also offers a full pro shop, lessons, and Junior Golf Camp. The website offers tips to master each hole.
128 Wilbraham Rd. Hampden greathorse.com
Scorecard:
Named the #1 private club in Massachusetts by Northeast Golf, GreatHorse is a secluded, plush mountain retreat where beyond a top-notch golf experience, golfers and their families can enjoy a wide range of clubhouse amenities such as an outdoor pool, private spa, fitness center, golf simulators, tennis and platform tennis courts, and a restaurant and bar.
781 Shoemaker Ln. · Feeding Hills stannecc.com
Scorecard:
St. Anne Country Club is a semi-private course that measures 6,608 yards from the longest tees and has a slope rating of 116 and a 70.8 USGA rating. The course features four sets of tees for different skills levels. Before or after the game, players can enjoy the amenities of a full bar and restaurant alongside a banquet facility for any event.
859 Stony Hill Rd. · Wilbraham ccofwilbraham.com
Scorecard:
Country Club of Wilbraham is a semiprivate club that opened in 1927 as a nine-hole course designed by Willie Ogg, a professional golfer and club designer from Scotland. A back nine holes introduced in the spring of 2002 rolls through wooded terrain. Other features include a Juniors Program, pro shop and practice facilities. The Grille is open to the public to enjoy a meal or drinks on the patio.
1458 E Mountain Rd. · Westfield eastmountaincc.com
Scorecard:
The panoramic East Mountain Country Club promises to give golfers a feeling that is not found anywhere else in the Springfield area. Featuring an 18-hole public golf course that is ideal for all levels of golfers, East Mountain Country Club is designed to help golfers improve their game. The facilities also offer a pro shop with the latest golf gear, as well as a snack bar for a quick bite before or after the golfers round.
446 Billings Rd. · Somers cedarknobgolfcourse.com
Scorecard:
Designed by Geoffrey Cornish and built in 1963, the tall cedars lend a dramatic backdrop to most fairways that feature numerous water hazards and tactically placed sand traps to challenge even the best of golfers. Cedar Knob also offers golf lessons through its pro shop and special membership packages. Players can finish their round with a delicious meal or their favorite beer, beverage or snack in the Cedar Castle Restaurant.
341 N Main St. Suffield suffieldcc.com
Scorecard:
Entering its 96th year of operation, Suffield Country Club provides a beautiful nine-hole private golf course designed by Orrin Smith, a swimming pool and three clay tennis courts. The club also offers a full service restaurant which is open from late March through November.
130 Town Farm Rd. Enfield grassmerecountryclub.com
Scorecard:
Grassmere Country Club is a nine-hole public golf course offering golfers a challenging round with beautifully manicured greens and fairways, rambling brooks and a hilly terrain, as well as sand traps and natural grass bunkers that make for that special PGA feeling. Other features include pro shop, practice green, special membership packages, banquet facility and The Grill.
516 Griffin Rd. #A · South Windsor topstonegc.com
Scorecard:
Great conditions including lush fairways and rolling hills await golfers at Topstone — an 18-hole, par 72 Championship golf course. Off the course, the clubhouse offers a fully-stocked golf shop, Grill Room and banquet facility. Topstone’s PGA Jr. League offers a scramble format that builds confidence and encourages sportsmanship among boys and girls of all skill levels.
76 Sadds Mill Rd. · Ellington rollingmeadowscountryclub.com
Scorecard:
Rolling Meadows offers a challenging encounter for all golfers with its more than 30 sand traps, some tight fairways, and a par 3 where you must carry over water nearly the full length of the hole. The public course features a pro shop, multiple practice greens, youth golf camp, various membership packages, and The Tavern at the Meadows. The back nine features spectacular views of the imposing Berkshire mountain range rising in the distance.
20 Copper Hill Rd. · East Granby copperhillgolf.com
Scorecard:
If 18 holes are just too much for you to play, Copper Hill Golf Club offers an invigorating nine-hole regulation length golf course to suit your needs. The public club also has an active youth golf program, PGA professional golf instruction, all grass driving range with 3,500-square-foot practice green and bunker, season passes, banquet facility, The Grill at Copper Hill, and an 18hole AFGL certified footgolf course. Growing in popularity, the sport is a combination of the games of soccer and golf where the goal is to get your regular size 5 soccer ball into a 21-inch foot golf cup.
If the warmer days and the emerald shoots emerging in your lawn have you thinking about a verdant fairway, pristine bunkers and carefully manicured greens, you’re not alone.
April heralds the start of golf season — with leagues, lessons and courses all gearing up for what everyone hopes will be another great year on the links.
Drew Michael, manager at Dave DiRico’s Golf in West Springfield, said golf is making a comeback, and he and the knowledgeable staff at what can best be described as the “ultimate pro shop on steroids” are ready to fill any and all golfers' needs for a great season.
“COVID changed everything,” Michael said of how the lockdown created a demand for outdoor activities that could be enjoyed at safe distances, like golf. “There are more golfers of every kind now — more young people, more ladies, more girls, more juniors — all boosting the industry.”
Beyond boosting interest in the sport, it also changed how golf is played, Michael said.
“It’s a more fun activity than it used to be,” Michael said. “There are nine-hole leagues, simulation golf and the equipment is better than ever.”
A s a shop that provides everything for every type of golfer — from beginner to seasoned player — equipment is a big focus at Dave DiRico’s Golf and has been their specialty since owner, PGA pro and recent Western Mass Golf Hall of Fame inductee Dave DiRico bought the location — formerly
the family-owned Fran Johnson Golf and Tennis — in 2012.
Michael said DiRico was just wrapping up his career as the Crestview Golf Club pro — the course was being sold at the time — when the opportunity to purchase Fran Johnson’s presented itself. The entire family — himself, his wife, Joann and daughter, Carrie — urged him to take the leap.
“Dave bought the building, but everything inside was new from the ground up when we opened,” Michael said of his father-in-law’s vision for his golf shop. Like Fran Johnson Tennis and Golf before it, Dave DiRico’s is very much a family-owned business, with Michael now serving as the store manager and Joann running the office.
And it’s no surprise that, with DiRico’s background as a teaching pro, helping clients find the right equipment to play their best golf game is a big part of what Dave Dirico’s Golf offers to clients. That focus on equipment includes two in-house club fitting bays, staffed by knowledgeable salespeople, all of whom are certified club fitters.
“ We do custom club fitting,” he shared. “Sometimes we get people who want to try out equipment on their own, but given what we would like to offer, it’s one-on-one club fitting to a client, to make sure they have a club that best fits them the best, as everyone is different.”
W hen it comes to fitting a golfer to equipment, Michael said they can offer everything from the “latest and greatest” that was just released for the current season, to previously
owned equipment. “As soon as it’s launched, we pick it up and run with it,” Michael said of the season’s new club and equipment offerings, adding the shop will then offer prior models of their premium equipment at a reduced cost.
For newer — or budget-minded — golfers looking to get into the sport affordably, Michael said his staff can help match them to the right previously owned equipment for their level of experience level and style of play.
“ We have all the major brands,” Michael added, ticking off well-known golf equipment makers including Callaway, TaylorMade, Titlist, PING, Mizuno Cleveland/Srixon and Cobra.
And the offerings at Dave Dirico’s go far beyond just an outstanding selection of golf equipment. “We also offer clothing, footwear, golf bags, we’re a full-service retail in that sense,” Michael said.
In addition to equipment and apparel for every type of golfer, Michael noted that Dave Dirico’s Golf is a full-service equipment repair shop.
“ We offer regripping, repairing clubs, there’s a lot of services in the area of club repairs that we offer,” he explained.
The shop also offers an opportunity for clients to book golf lessons in their fitting bays, taught by on-staff pros after hours.
“ We have four teachers who, outside of store hours, will book lessons, though not through the store,” Michael said. “It’s an opportunity for clients, though it isn’t our specialty.”
“These guys teach all year,” he added. “Lessons ramp up at certain times, but it’s never dead.”
The opportunity to partake in golf lessons at the same place you get fitted for your best clubs is just one of the ways Dave DiRico’s Golf is a cut above other golf equipment shops.
“ We’ve really evolved into a one-stop shop,” Michael said, adding his staff really gets to know their regular customers “by name, they know the product [they] buy over the years, and many friendships have developed here over the years.”
After 38 years as a golf pro, DiRico knew the importance of a personal connection with your clients. When he opened his golf shop, that level of personal connection and customer service was his mantra from the beginning. Today, that level of service is something Michael said he and his staff strive to do every day, for every client who walks through the door.
“Golf equipment — you can get that anywhere — but customer services — that’s something we pride ourselves on. All our guys are knowledgeable,” Michael said. “Dave has been retired for a few years now, but it’s something he always pushed on us, and it will always be a focus of our employees” and Dave DiRico’s Golf.
DAVE DIRICO’S GOLF IS AT 21 MYRON ST. IN WEST SPRINGFIELD. HOURS ARE MONDAY, TUESDAY, WEDNESDAY AND FRIDAY, 9 A.M. TO 5 P.M.; THURSDAY, 9 A.M. TO 7 P.M.; AND SATURDAY AND SUNDAY, 9 A.M. TO 4P.M. THE SHOP CAN BE REACHED AT 413-734-4444. FOR MORE INFORMATION, VISIT DAVEDIRICOGOLF.COM.
Golfing with a friend — or in a group — is much more fun than golfing alone.
W hether you’re looking to play a quick round after work, or to meet people who share a passion for the game, there are many courses in the area that offer various golf leagues for all skill levels.
The largest network of nine-hole, social golf leagues is Spark Golf; played at over 2,000 courses across the United States and Canada.
According to Spark Golf’s website, its accessible format and relaxed rules are intended for golfers of all skill levels, looking to have fun with a little friendly competition.
One of the local courses that offers a Spark Golf league is Chicopee Country Club.
Mike O’Neill, director of golf at Chicopee Country Club, said this is their fourth year offering the league at the course; however, Spark Golf runs it.
Generally, it attracts about eight to 12 players every year, he shared.
This year’s Spark Golf league will be every Tuesday night beginning May 6 and running through September. Tee-off is usually between 5 and 5:30 p.m., and takes place rain or shine, as long as the course is open.
O’Neill explained that golfers pay $23 — which is the Chicopee Country Club league fee — but it would be paid directly to Spark. Carts are optional. If golfers want to get a cart when they arrive at the course, they will pay for the cart
then.
O’Neill shared that any golfers are welcome to play in the league and must sign up through Spark Golf by contacting help@spark.golf.
In addition to Spark Golf, O’Neill said there are about 18 different golf leagues that are offered in Chicopee.
“[The leagues are] run by outside people,” he explained.
There are currently four leagues each month that take place every Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday, that generally run from 3-5:30 p.m.
O’Neill explained that the leagues generally alternate. For instance, two leagues will tee off on the front nine one week, while the other two leagues tee off on the back nine, and then they alternate week to week.
The majority of the leagues will start in the middle of April and run through September, depending on if they have playoffs.
“Most of these leagues, they’ve been there for many years,” O’Neill said, noting that a few of the Monday leagues have been going strong for 40 years.
“It’s a big percentage of our play,” he added, referring to the leagues the course offers.
The club also has a women’s league that takes place on Wednesday evenings — with tee-off between 4:45 and 5:30 p.m. — called the “LPGA Amateur.”
This league is open to all women, whether they are beginners or have been playing for years.
O’Neill said the women’s league has grown to be a “more popular league,” as a couple of different courses in the area also offer it.
Friday is a slower league night, which is offered by the golf course itself.
“ We call it a couple nine and dine,” O’Neill said. “It’s gotten to be very popular over the last half dozen years or so where we invite couples to call up the week of — if they can make it that week, great — call up for a tee time and we try to pair each couple with another couple — that would make a foursome. If they have a foursome themselves, call up, book a tee time somewhere between 3 and 5:30 [p.m.] and they go out and play a nine-hole scramble format and most of them will hang out and patronize our bar and restaurant area afterward.”
O’Neill shared that this league is “very popular” with beginning golfers. For instance, if a husband and wife come and the woman is new to the game, it is a great opportunity for them to get out there and learn.
All the league fees, Monday through Friday, are $23 per golfer. Carts are optional.
With the majority of the leagues being run by outside people, interested participants would have to get in touch with those specific people, however, if someone is looking to join a league, O’Neill said people can contact him at moneill@chicopeema.gov.
“If someone says, ‘Hey, I am looking to get into a league,
I’m available on Tuesdays and Wednesdays,’” O’Neill said he will take that information and pass it along to the league representatives if they are looking for players.
Weather pending, the Chicopee Country Club is expected to open the first week of April.
In May, the course will offer a ladies' golf clinic on Monday nights and junior golf camps in July and August. Interested participants can call the pro shop at 413-594-9295, or email O’Neill for more information.
THE CHICOPEE COUNTRY CLUB IS AT 1290 BURNETT RD. IN CHICOPEE.
TO LEARN MORE, VISIT CHICOPEECOUNTRYCLUB.COM.
TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE - NO GOOGLING!
WHAT WHALE SPECIES IS KNOW FOR ITS TRUMPET-LIKE VOCALIZATIONS AND COMPLEX SONGS?
[A] Sperm whale
[B] Humpback whale
[C] Beluga whale
[D] Narwhal
[D] Isaac Asimov WHO WROTE THE EPIC SCI-FI STORY “THE WAR OF THE WORLDS?”
[A] Ray Bradbury
[B] Kurt Vonnegut
[C] H.G. Wells
WHAT WAS THE NAME OF ROBERT E. LEE’S FAMOUS HORSE?
[A] Comanche
[B] Scout
[C] Traveller
[D] Marengo
WHAT U.S. CITY WAS THE FIRST TO HOST THE OLYMPIC GAMES (1904)?
[A] Chicago
[B] Minneapolis
[C] Los Angeles
[D] St. Louis
[D] 400 WHAT IS THE HIGHEST SCORE POSSIBLE IN 10-PIN BOWLING?
[A] 100
[B] 200
[C] 300
[A] George Washington
[B] John Adams
[C] Martin Van Buren
[D] Franklin Pierce WHO WAS THE FIRST U.S. PRESIDENT TO LIVE IN THE WHITE HOUSE?
HOW DO YOU SAY “I LOVE YOU” IN ITALIAN?
[A] Ti amo
[B] Te amo
[C] Je t’aime
[D] Eu te amo
WHICH COUNTRY HAS THE MOST ACTIVE VOLCANOES?
[A] Indonesia
[B] Italy
[C] Iceland
[D] USA
IN WHAT YEAR WAS THE ORIGINAL “JURASSIC PARK” FILM RELEASED?
[A] 1986
[B] 1993
[C] 1999
[D] 2004
COMING IN OUR MAY ISSUE
Visit these seven places before you begin planting to prepare your garden for a successful season.
228 WEST ST • VERNON, CT
860-872-7291 • GARDENBARN.COM
A destination retail garden center, specializing in premium quality annuals, perennials, nursery stock, garden accessories and more. Open Monday - Sunday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
185 MEADOWBROOK RD EAST LONGMEADOW, MA 413-525-8588
MEADOWBROOKFARMMA.COM
Open early spring with a wide variety of bedding plants, perennials, nursery stock, vegetable plants, and a huge selection of hanging baskets.
1359 WILBRAHAM RD • SPRINGFIELD, MA 413-783-5883 • 16ACRESGARDENCENTER.COM
Operating in the heart of Springfield since 1962, Sixteen Acres Garden Center features a wide variety of houseplants and gardening materials. The garden center is open Monday through Sunday.
92 KIBBE GROVE RD • SOMERS, CT 860-265-6511 • PELL-FARMS.COM
Family owned and operated since 1930, Pell Family Farm boasts a rich history of producing farm-fresh goods. The farm grows trees and ornamental shrubs and trees, and are also synonymous with their strawberries grown and sold throughout the spring and into the summer.
355 TAYLOR RD • ENFIELD, CT
266 NORTH RD • BROAD BROOK, CT
860-835-6652 • GARDENSDREAM.COM
Featuring 3 locations in Enfield, Cromwell and Broad Brook. Garden’s Dream provides a variety of herbs, vegetables, shrubs and trees and over 100 types of perennials. Open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
187 WINDSORVILLE RD ELLINGTON, CT
860-871-8183 • DZENFARMS.COM
Operating in Ellington since 1998, Dzen Garden Market is a community staple for its diverse array of offerings, ranging from flowers, produce, honey and ice cream.
280 ELM ST • EAST LONGMEADOW, MA 413-525-6137 • GRAZIANOGARDENS.COM
Graziano Gardens, Landscaping and Florist is a full-service garden center that provides annuals, perennials, trees and shrubs, soils and mulch, garden fertilizers, pottery and statuary, landscape pavers and more. Graziano Gardens will reopen full services at the start of spring.
