DECEMBER 2020

December 2020 Volume 7 . Issue 1 golocalmagazines.com

Pan’e Dolcetti

Coffee shop in Wilbraham

Cooper’s

family tradition in agawam bright nights at forest park

Check it out

Broad Brook Brewing Co.

all she wants...

HOLIDAY HOURS: SATURDAY: 10:00AM-5:00PM • SUNDAY: 12:00PM-5:00PM WEEKDAYS STARTING 12/10: 10:00AM-7:00PM • CHRISTMAS EVE: 10:00AM-3:00PM

413-567-7977 • WWW.MICHAELSZWEDJEWELERS.COM • 807 WILLIAMS STREET, LONGMEADOW, MA 2 GO LOCAL DECEMBER 2020

GOLOCALMAGAZINES.COM 3

new this month DECEMBER 2020 . VOLUME 7 . ISSUE 1

COOPER’S IN AGAWAM

17

s ’ n o s a e S s! g n i t e e r G

What’s better during the holidays than a heartwarming story of family traditions and love? That’s exactly the story behind Cooper’s store in Agawam, Massachusetts, and Kate Gourde…owner and shopkeeper…invites us to hear it.

6

A NOTE

12

ARTIST CORNER

13

PAN’E DOLCETTI

From The Editor Kristin McKeever Art A small coffee shop in Wilbraham

17 COOPER’S A Family Tradition in Agawam

The All New

Hours: Mon-Thur 12–10 Fri & Sat 12–12 Sun 12–9

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DECEMBER 2020 . VOLUME 7 . ISSUE 1

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Broad brook brewing company

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Local Snapshot

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GO LOCAL PICKS

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bright nights

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Local Brewing Serving It Up At A Second Location

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GOLOCALMAGAZINES.COM 5

a note

FROM THE MANAGING EDITOR . G. MICHAEL DOBBS

MANAGING EDITOR Wait a minute, wasn’t it just August?

I had the a/c going, eating local vegetables, and smoking a cigar on my porch?

What happened to that?

Before I knew it, I’m now thinking about the Thanksgiving meal – just three of us – Christmas presents, and New Year’s resolutions.

Time flies when you’re in the dumpster fire year of the 21st Century, I guess.

Although many people are going to miss the traditions of the holiday season that are usually scheduled for a family, this year promises to be different.

For instance, you can’t take the kids to sit on Santa’s lap because of the pandemic, but I’ve heard ads from some businesses promoting virtual visits with Santa that include a digital photo of your kids with St. Nick, thanks to 21st Century technology.

I’m not sure that will have the same appeal, but we have to roll with it. It may not have the same magic to convince a young skeptic.

There won’t be many, if any, office Christmas parties either, I assume.

No Black Friday shopping, although I think that’s a positive thing myself.

But still some traditions remain. People will still put up decorations. Folks in my neighborhood started the day after Halloween.

People will still go to tree farms to get that perfect tree.

There will be the ritual of selecting and roasting the perfect turkey. What I’ve learned over the years is there seems to be about 100 ways to cook a bird and everyone has their own technique. My mom used to cook a bird overnight at about 265 degrees F, which I’ve since been told is dangerous as the turkey isn’t hot enough to eliminate some nasty microbes that might be lurking there. So, I don’t do that.

I do have an unused turkey fryer in my basement, so perhaps I will do that this year. If I can cook the bird properly without setting fire to something that would be the Christmas miracle.

We have some traditions in this issue of Go Local that are intact for the holiday season.

I’m happy to see that Bright Nights in Forest Park will be open pretty much as usual.

For many people this evening drive though the park is a must every season. There is a peacefulness to driving slowly though the light displays with Christmas music playing on the radio.

I also see that shopping at locally owned shops is also available. There is a list of seven places to find unique gifts on our “Final Countdown” page. Check them out. You’ll find cool stuff and you will be helping your neighbor.

Cooper’s in Agawam has been a regular stop this time of year for so many people seeking that perfect gift.

Some traditions haven’t been put on hold by 2020.

And it’s time to check out something new for the season. My wife is always looking for a new coffee and bakery experience, so we tried Pane Dolcetti in Wilbraham.

This year has been a kick in the throat for millions of Americans. For some the holidays will be a difficult time. Please consider trying to help out your community with a donation to a local charity.

G. Michael Dobbs

CREATIVE

Beth Thurber, Manager . Leigh Catchepaugh Elizabeth O’Donoghue . Susan Bartlett

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A CREATION OF

CONTACT US!

- G. Michael Dobbs, Managing Editor

280 North Main Street • East Longmeadow, MA 01028 Tel: 413.525.6661 • Fax: 413.525.5882

GOLOCALMAGAZINES.COM Send local story ideas to: Michelle Johnson: mjohnson@repub.com 6 GO LOCAL DECEMBER 2020

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artist corner

KRISTIN MCKEEVER ART - EAST LONGMEADOW, MA

Artist Corner

KRISTIN MCKEEVER ART - EAST LONGMEADOW, MA

IG: @KRISTIN.MCKEEVER.ART ETSY.COM/SHOP/KRISTINMCKEEVERART INPRNT.COM/GALLERY/KRISTINMCKEEVER/

Tell us a little about yourself!

What are your favorite things to paint?

I live in western MA with my husband and two dogs and I’m going into my seventh year of teaching! When I’m not painting, I enjoy reading, writing, playing the piano, and spending a lot of time outdoors.

I love to paint anything in nature, especially landscapes. Most of my paintings include sunsets or night skies with a lot of clouds.

I typically include dark silhouettes in the foreground, including trees, wildflowers, and mountains. Sometimes I’ll do what I call a “nerdy painting,” which includes characters from Star Wars or Lord of the Rings, which are some of my favorite movies. I also love to paint telephone poles for some reason. They aren’t exactly pretty in real life, but there’s something so enjoyable to me about the way the harsh lines of the telephone poles contrast with the soft skies in the background of my paintings.

What town is your studio based out of?

East Longmeadow, MA

When/how did you get interested in painting?

I used to paint here and there in high school, and then again in college, but I didn’t start painting again until last summer. I’ve always been interested in art, but stopped for about a decade until my husband (who is also an artist) gave me all of his watercolor paints one day. He encouraged me to try painting again and once I started, I didn’t really stop. I’ve made it a goal to create at least one painting a day and I’ve been having so much fun with it.

How would you describe your aesthetic to someone who’s never seen your work?

I’m still trying to figure out my style, since it’s evolved a bit over the past year. My paintings are soft, but colorful. I use a lot of pastel colors, such as light oranges, pinks, and blues. Each painting is almost always centered around something in nature.

I often include a vibrant background that contrasts with dark silhouettes in the foreground.

12 GO LOCAL DECEMBER 2020

What are your inspirations?

I love landscape photography, especially that of various national parks throughout the U.S., so I often save those photos to use as inspiration. I also spend a lot of my time outside and will just notice simple things in nature that inspire me, especially when we travel. Lastly, my husband has been a constant source of inspiration and encouragement for me during this time. He has been an artist for many years now and he and I have always shared an appreciation of art. He’s the one that urged me to start painting again because he knew how happy it made me, and he has been incredibly supportive from the very start. Once my art started getting noticed on Instagram, he encouraged me to start turning my hobby into a small business. I’ve been having a lot of fun and can’t wait to see where this little art journey takes me.

 !VICKI MITCHELL

E

ven though the holiday season will be different this year, it’s still a good idea to stop and smell the coffee, and treat yourself to something special. Pan’e Dolcetti, which translates from Italian to “bread treats, is a small coffee shop in Wilbraham, Massachusetts serving homemade bread and sweet treats, along with their flavorful coffees, teas, and hot chocolate. Owned by Cara and Felice Aiello, their shop “is committed to bringing its customers the best coffee, exquisite pastries, specialty imported items and artisanal breads baked right in our kitchen. All of our breads and pastries are made with all natural, quality ingredients. Coffee, food and community are our passions and we invite you to share these with us!”

According to Cara, she and Felice met in New York City while working at Oren’s Daily Roast. After a while, she says, “Felice moved on to Cafe Grumpy in NYC where he managed many of the shops and helped to open a bakery. I moved on to The Chocolate Room in Brooklyn, NYC where I was the general manager in charge of marketing. We made the biggest move of all when we decided to relocate back to the Springfield area, where I am originally from. Felice and I were brought up to be proud of our Italian heritage. That influence, and a deep love for food, and especially coffee, was the catalyst for our dream to someday own our own cafe.”

Felice does the baking, arriving GOLOCALMAGAZINES.COM 13

at the shop (by bike!) at 3:00 every morning.

He then gets started in the kitchen, preparing that day’s menu offerings. He could be making tiramisu, almond biscotti, fig cookies, or one of their artisanal breads. One of his favorite additions to the shop’s menu is the mashed chickpea panino, a popular choice among their vegan options. He first learned to bake at home, where his parents made wedding cakes, Italian cookies, and pastries. He also attended the Institute of Culinary Education in NYC. Cara is working behind the scenes and makes an occasional “guest appearance” at the coffee bar, when she has time. Raising their three children, Lilliana (6), Elisa (4), and Luca (2) keeps her plenty busy! “Although being a Mama is always first and foremost in my life, it is difficult for me to be away from the shop so much,” she says. She credits their lone employee, Amanda Smith, with helping to keep the shop running smoothly. “We added Amanda to our team about six years ago. Amanda’s energy, friendship and love for our cafe has gotten us through many hurdles we have faced over the years.”

Cara says her day is off to a great start with a traditional Americano (espresso with a little bit of water) and a chocolate fig scone. Each weekend, they bake a variety of Bomboloni, or Italian doughnuts, a customer favorite. They use fillings such as fresh fruit, tiramisu cream, and other favorites. Their customers also love the fresh artisanal breads, telling them “the only 14 GO LOCAL DECEMBER 2020

Non-Dairy

Dark Hot Chocolate Recipe

• 4 oz. oat milk • 2 tbsp. sugar use Valhrona) • 1 tbsp. cocoa powder (we chocolate (we use Callebaut) k • 2 oz -70% or higher dar on low heat until it just • Heat oat milk and sugar edges of pan und aro ble begins to bub powder • Add chocolate and cocoa . ted Enjoy • Whisk until inc orpora

!

other place to find bread like this is in Italy!”

As far as beverages go, Cara says their specialty is “pour over” coffee, where “every single origin coffee is measured out and made individually to order. We don’t have a large coffee dispenser where the coffee sits until it is ordered.” In addition to their coffee offerings, she adds, “we have a simple but exquisite tea selection. Tea offerings include Brooklyn Tea (black tea with vanilla flavor and cornflowers), Chai and Turmeric from Dona, Brooklyn. Also, Matcha, herbal chamomile and a simple but delicious Ceylon Black Tea are on our tea menu. We use and sell local honey from our friends at Benny’s Bees, right in Ludlow.”

“One of our favorite winter beverages is our Dark Hot Chocolate, which…originated at The Chocolate Room in Brooklyn. We once served The Chocolate Room’s version, but now make our own. It is a dark, thick and rich sipping chocolate, as opposed to the traditional milky, light colored drink. Adding a shot of espresso makes it perfecto!”

Holiday baking at Pan’e Dolcetti includes specialty tarts, Pan’ettone, Italian cookies, pignolata (honey-dipped fried dough pieces, shaped into a ring and covered with sprinkles,) and cranberry Malbec compote. These items, as well as others, can be pre-ordered. In fact, on-line ordering is strongly encouraged at this time. In addition, the Aiellos recently completed a renovation to the shop’s interior, so that customers ordering and eating inside can now be more socially distant from others.

In spite of the hard work and long hours, Felice is fulfilling his passion for baking and for good coffee. Cara says that seeing their dreams come true, and having their children see them working hard to accomplish that, has been “an amazing adventure.” They appreciate all of the love and support they have received from the community, especially during this difficult year!

Pan’e Dolcetti is located at 2133 Boston Road (in the Eastwood Shops) Wilbraham, Massachusetts info@Pan’edolcetti 413-326-3299 December hours are Wed. - Sun.from 8am until 3pm GOLOCALMAGAZINES.COM 15

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18 GO LOCAL DECEMBER 2020

!

W

 VICKI MITCHELL

Coop er's

hat’s better during the holidays than a heartwarming story of family traditions and love? That’s exactly the story behind Cooper’s store in Agawam, Massachusetts, and Kate Gourde…owner and shopkeeper…invites us to hear it.

“Hey there, Kate here.

“I would like to share a love story with you. It’s the story of how I, rather reluctantly, got involved in the family business, and how it changed my life.

“I grew up here at Cooper’s, coloring at the wrapping counter after school and working in the shop all through high school. I was at Elms College for Nursing when Dad asked if I would come back to Cooper’s as Manager, just for the summer. That was in 1988. I was so not interested but Dad was very convincing, so I said ‘Okay, just for the summer.’ That was almost 33 years ago. Time truly does fly when you’re having fun!

“Once I started doing more than just sales … the buying, the merchandising, the marketing ... I was hooked. I was working seven days and two nights a week for a long time, but I loved every minute of it. We were in a deep recession, but Cooper’s showed consistent growth each and every month. I brought in new lines, had a ball creating displays and loved developing meaningful relationships with my customers.

“I added help as Cooper’s grew, and I was very blessed to find staff that felt like family. Once I met my Prince Charming and the babies started to arrive, the Cooper Crew kept the place afloat while I made a life outside of work. Each one of our four kids came to work with me for the first 8-9 months of their lives. I had a crib and a playpen in my office and I was constantly juggling. But, how blessed I

was to have them with me! If it were not for my dedicated and loyal employees, I would have never been able to keep the store open and have a family. And, when I lost my parents, they grieved with me and helped me pick up the pieces. I am forever grateful to my dedicated crew.”

Kate’s parents, Joan and Art Leary, opened the store in 1973. They were also the owners of the former Country Squire Furniture Shop, and Art wanted to add a gift shop to complement that store.

He bought two tobacco barns in Feeding Hills, dismantled them and brought the materials to Agawam to build this building out of 80% recycled goods “long before that was a cool thing to do,” says Kate. “It was all very colonial giftware then. Today, it’s an eclectic mix of gifts, apparel and home decor.”

Kate has been at the helm of Cooper’s for 32 years, and her family…husband Bob, and children Elizabeth (19), GOLOCALMAGAZINES.COM 19

Robert (18), Matthew (15), and Raymond (10)…have all been involved in the family business, as well. Kate says, “My children all came to work with me as babies and they’ve all worked here their entire childhoods. Elizabeth is still a weekend regular. My husband is a saint! He is so helpful and very handy, so he’s great about helping me build displays. He’s been so patient all these years I’ve worked crazy hours through the holidays. It’s hard to keep family traditions when you own a retail shop, but my team (5 to 8 employees, depending on the time of year) is incredible at work. Many have been with me for years; Rosie has been here for 20 years! They make sure that I can make some time to have a life outside of the shop, too.”

Kate determines what items and brands to buy for the store by following the trends, by researching trade publications, and by keeping an eye out at markets. “I have a great group of fellow shopkeepers around the country and we do weekly Zoom meetings. Their input and support has been so important this year!” says Kate.

There are many special items to look for in the store this month, including “glittery lanterns.” Kate says, “The glittery lanterns are a huge category for us! They are similar to a water globe, but a fan makes the glitter whirl around continuously. They are lit and some play music.

The scenes inside vary from cardinals, to Santa, snowmen and nativity scenes. They are truly mesmerizing and magical!” Another unique item is the LED beanie hats, which feature a “super bright LED light on the front of the knit cap, which can be recharged with a USB cord.

They are perfect for ‘hard to buy for’ men, runners, dog walkers, snow shovelers, mail carriers, campers or anyone 20 GO LOCAL DECEMBER 2020

that needs to be outside in the dark,” she added.

When asked what her favorite part of the business was, Kate answered, “The people. My customers, my team; it’s just a happy place to be.

And, with the variety of jobs that I have to do, there’s never a dull moment.”

And the most difficult part? “The number and variety of jobs that I need to do! There are just not enough hours in the day, this time of year, especially!”

Kate noted that “owning a business and having a family does not allow much time for volunteering and doing the charity work that I yearn for, so I’ve developed ways to incorporate that into the store.

We recently added the Round Up Program, through which we’ve proudly been able to donate over $26,000 to local charities. It’s the generosity of our customers, and we just provide the vehicle to drive it. I am very proud of that.”

Happily, her “love story” continues to this day. She summed it up by saying, “I have made friendships that have stood the test of time. I’ve watched babies be born, grow up and shop now with their little ones. I’ve assisted them in finding the perfect gifts for all the happy and sad occasions that life sends us. I consider myself lucky to have had the honor to help them choose gifts that speak what is in their hearts, and turn their homes into havens with personalized decor selections.

“So, that is my love story. I am so grateful for the twist that my life took, and I would not change a thing. Thank YOU for being a part of my love story.”

Cooper’s is located at 161 Main Street, Agawam, Massachusetts Coopersgifts.com Open daily throughout December. Check website for hours. COVID precautions in place.

GOLOCALMAGAZINES.COM 21

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H

ow does one become a Brewmaster?

For Eric Mance, owner of Broad Brook Brewery in Suffield, it started the day he turned 21 and began drinking Budweiser and other popular American beers.

“They make good beer, but lack a true flavor profile and I was looking for something different,” Mance said.

He began to try imported beers such as Spatan and Beck’s from Germany along with Belgian and English beers.

That soon led to Mance and his future business partner, Tom Rossing, to seek out craft beers found at Long Trail, Magic Hat, Shipyard, Allagash, and other New England and imported breweries.

The pair was inspired to begin home brewing with the thought that someday, maybe, they might open their own craft brewery - something that wouldn’t happen until 2013 after several years of experimenting.

“Our interest in the craft brewing industry was definitely piqued as we saw more and more beer lovers seeking out craft brews, along with a possible place for us in Connecticut which at the time had few craft breweries,” said Mance.

Spurred on by friends who told them they loved their home brews, they realized that wasn’t enough.

“Of course, they’re going to love your beer because they are getting it for free,” laughed Mance, who along with Rossing looked for additional ways to validate their brews.

“We began sending our beer to competitions all over the country and we won quite a few. Knowing that others appreciated our beer further validated that what we were brewing was legitimate and of good quality.

Our next step was to pour our beers at various beer fests in order to build name recognition before ever opening our own brewery. Suddenly we were now standing next to Long Trail and Shipyard, brewers we looked up to. And, now people were lining up for our beers and coming back for more,” Mance said, noting it was time to do the research and finally open their own brewery.

“I have a business background which

! KEITH O’CONNOR  NATE BLAIS & BROADBROOK BREWING

GOLOCALMAGAZINES.COM 23

helped in understanding what it takes to start and run a business. We were brewing out of Tom’s garage in Broad Brook, and that is how we got our name. One of the things we realized is that we needed a place with traffic and we found a space in East Windsor behind Sofia’s Plaza, which was the right size for us at the time and gave us good visibility,” Mance said.

After maximizing their space capacity in East Windsor within two years after opening, it was time to look for a new location. After a long search, the partners eventually found a plot of land to build on in Suffield on Route 75 near Bradley International Airport and opened this May. When designing their new building, Mance said it was important to add a full kitchen.

“What we noticed through having a tap room was that people would come in, have a couple beers, some even bringing their own food. But making a fantastic beer wasn’t enough to keep them in their seats and many were leaving within an hour or two to find somewhere to eat,” said Mance.

It was a good decision for them to add the kitchen.

“Despite COVID-19, we are busier than ever and have a wait list on Fridays and Saturdays to get in. We couldn’t be happier.

Still, with COVID-19 we are limited in our capacity and are strictly adhering to state guidelines to provide a safe environment for our staff and customers,” said Mance.

It is their brewing philosophy that Mance feels sets them apart from others.

“Every brewery has their only little interpretations to their beers, that is what drives customers to go to different breweries. I think the biggest thing for us is that we try to brew as close to the style as possible. For example, our Broad Brook Ale is an English Special Bitter and all of the ingredients that go into it are from England.

Our Munich Lager and Oktoberfest are brewed with premium malts and hops from Germany,” said Mance.

Along with a well-crafted beer, an eyecatching label also helps sales and that is where artist Dean McKeever comes in.

“We give Dean the beer’s name, style, a paragraph about the brew, and on some occasions the direction we would like him to take. Just as an example, in early November we brought back our Promiscuous 24 GO LOCAL DECEMBER 2020

Unfiltered IPA after a long hiatus. Its tongue-in-cheek label shows a woman’s hand with a pair of keys hanging from her fingers,” said Mance.

Thirsty customers can today choose anywhere from 12 to 15 beers on tap at Broad Brook Brewing.

“We are a two-brew system brewery with a big 30-barrel brew house where we make almost 1,000 gallons in a batch, along with what I call our three-barrel test kitchen, which only makes 90 gallons in a batch. It’s in the test kitchen where we come up with new ideas for our beers. We were recently experimenting with cherries, vanilla and chocolate and ended up with something that tastes almost like Black Forest cake.

When you are only making 90 gallons it allows us to test it out in our tap room and if people like it, then put it into full production as we will be doing with Leaf Peeper Pale Ale,” said Mance.

Those in search of a good pour will find a wide variety of beers at Broad Brook Brewery from traditional ales and lagers to unique interpretations of these styles including fruited sours.

“There is always something new and exciting on tap,” said Mance.

Asked what their most popular beer is with customers, he answered “that’s a tough one.”

“What one person likes, another person doesn’t. But I can tell you that our most asked for beers have been Jigawatts, Lucid Dreams, and Euphoria,” said Mance.

Lucid Dreams Milkshake IPA is hoppy, juicy and smooth and brewed with Zythos and Sabro Hops and lactose. Jigawatts DIPA 3.0 is their full-flavored New England Double IPA that is double dry hopped with Cascade, Mosaic and Citra. Euphoria is an unfiltered brew that is their version of a New England Style IPA. It is a juicy blend of Columbus, Mosaic, and Citra hops, displaying an earthy and piney undertone enhanced by multiple dry hopping additions exploding with bold citrus, grapefruit, tropical flavors and aromas balanced with a softer mouth.

And, just in time for Christmas, Broad Brook Brewing is bringing back its Holiday Homewrecker Ale with a light roasty scent and hints of caramel and coffee only available at the brewery. Just as flavorful as the beer, its label pokes fun at Santa GOLOCALMAGAZINES.COM 25

who is riding a wrecking ball that is crashing into a house.

“People love it…. it’s a dark ale, just a good winter warmer that is higher in alcohol,” said Mance.

In addition to sipping on some tasty brews, customers can enjoy some taste-tempting treats from Executive Chef Derek Andersen, who has come up with some crafty creations of his own for their tap room menu.

“We wanted a kitchen where everything is fresh and made from scratch. Derek does a phenomenal job with the menu using unique ingredients that provide a flavorful dining experience accompanied by sipping on our beers. It’s not your typical pub food and you won’t find a fryolator in the kitchen, but we do have a wood-fired brick oven for our pizzas,” Mance said.

Noshers can snack on marinated olives, cheese and meat boards, charred wings and more. If you want something more substantial, the menu features a bacon burger, pork sliders, jalapeno popper grilled cheese or smokey grilled cheese, as well as several other selections. There are also 12 pizzas to choose from varying from simple cheese or pepperoni to more inventive creations such as Drunken Swine, made with beer cheese, fontina, applewood smoked bacon, carmelized red onion, chives and roasted garlic aioli.

“Our tap room is family friendly if you want to bring your children along. Our staff consists mostly of family members, including my wife, Rita,” said Mance, who noted they also serve wines from Connecticut wineries, as well as locally-made hard cider and soda.

Take-out food is also available.

Since opening in their new location, Mance said they have increased their distribution to cover all of Massachusetts and Connecticut.

In addition to purchasing cans at the brewery, their beers can also be found in many stores as well as on tap in restaurants.

Broad Brook Brewing is located at 915 South St., in Suffield, Conn. Hours are Wednesday and Thursday from 3-8 p.m., Friday and Saturday from 11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m., and Sunday from 11:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.

For more information, call 860-623-1000 or email info@broadbrookbrewing.com.

26 GO LOCAL DECEMBER 2020

local snapshot  Allison Billeter

GOLOCALMAGAZINES.COM 27

go local picks

COOL STUFF JUST OUTSIDE YOUR DOOR AND ONLINE!

TORCHLIGHT PARADE SATURDAY, DECEMBER 5, 2020 AT 6:30 PM EST – 7:30 PM EST BROAD ST, WINDSOR, CT 06095 Join us for a fun evening of holiday festivities on Saturday, December 5th at 6:30 pm for our annual holiday Torchlight Parade. The Torchlight parade includes many holiday-lighted vehicles and marchers who will progress through the town center in all its lights, music and fanciful decorations! Grab a spot near the street to watch the brightly decorated fire trucks parade by in their holiday glory.

If you would you like your group or vehicle to be in the parade, email torchlight@ftdt.org.

THE WOOD’S 10TH ANNUAL GINGERBREAD HOUSE FESTIVAL THE PROMENADE SHOPS AT EVERGREEN WALK FREE & OPEN TO THE PUBLIC. NOV. 27 - JAN. 3 The Friends of Wood Memorial Library & Museum are excited to announce that their Annual Gingerbread House Festival will be coming back for its 10th Year! The Wood is committed to keeping this “can’t miss” community event available to the public during the festive holiday season and has partnered with The Promenade Shops at Evergreen Walk to provide a safe environment for patrons to enjoy the gingerbread house display. The festival opens the day after Thanksgiving, Friday, December 27, 2020, and runs through Sunday, January 3, 2021, providing a safe and enjoyable holiday event for the whole family.

28 GO LOCAL DECEMBER 2020

TRANS-SIBERIAN ORCHESTRA LIVE STREAM ONLINE EVENT - FRIDAY, DECEMBER 18, 2020 AT 8 PM EST TSOLIVESTREAM.COM Join live on tsolivestream.com for your favorite rock holiday tradition this season as Trans-Siberian Orchestra brings an electrifying 90-minute performance of its beloved album, “Christmas Eve and Other Stories” directly into your home.

This livestream event will take place on December 18th at 8 PM EST and features the story and the music that started it all (but don’t worry - we didn’t forget about the lasers!).

PURCHASE YOUR TICKET AT: www.tsolivestream.com QUESTIONS? Please refer to the FAQs at the bottom of www.tsolivestream.com.

Thank you to all our loyal customers!

Special thanks to this great community for taking care of it’s neighbors as we celebrate our 8th year!

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go eat

! RECIPE SUBMITTED BY JANET PARÉ

CRANBERRY CHERRY PINWHEELS

The combination of cranberries and cherries make these cookies a festive addition to your holiday baking.

Perfect for sharing with family and friends or a cookie swap.

FOR THE FILLING: 1 1/2 cup dried cranberries 1 - 10 oz. jar cherry preserves 1/4 cup water 1/4 cup pecans, minced FOR THE COOKIE DOUGH: 1/4 cup butter, softened 1 1/4 cup sugar 3 large egg whites, room temperature 3 tbsp. vegetable oil 2 tbsp. milk 2 tsp. vanilla 3 1/3 cup flour 3/4 tsp. baking powder 1/8 tsp. baking soda

JANET PARÉ

This will be my last recipe submission. I hope you’ve enjoyed them as much as I have enjoyed sharing them with you.

I’m looking forward to trying new recipes from others. THANK YOU!

IF YOU WOULD LIKE YOUR RECIPE FEATURED IN AN UPCOMING ISSUE, PLEASE EMAIL RECIPE AND PHOTO TO: MJOHNSON@REPUB.COM

28 GO 30 GOLOCAL LOCALDECEMBER DECEMBER2020 2020

Filling: In a small saucepan, combine cranberries, cherries and water. Cook and stir over medium heat for about 8 minutes or liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat; cool slightly. Transfer to blender and process until smooth. Transfer to bowl; add pecans; refrigerate until chilled.

Dough: In a large bowl, beat butter and sugar until crumbly - about 2 minutes. Beat in egg whites, oil, milk and vanilla.

Combine flour, baking powder and baking soda. Gradually add to sugar mixture.

Mix well.

Divide dough in half. Form into small rectangles. Cover with plastic; refrigerate for 2 hours. Once chilled, remove plastic, sprinkle lightly with flour. Roll out on parchment paper into 12 x 9 rectangles. Spread with half of the filling; leaving a 1/2 inch border on all sides. Roll up jelly roll style starting with the long side. Repeat with remaining dough and filling.

Wrap each roll in parchment paper; refrigerate at least 4 hours. Unwrap dough, cut into 1/2 inch slices.

Place 2 inches apart on parchment lined cookie sheet. Bake at 350 degrees for 15 18 minutes. Do not overbake. Remove to wire racks to cool. Enjoy!

! KEITH O’CONNOR  NATE BLAIS & THE REPUBLICAN PHOTOGRAPHERS

Bright Nights

M

illions of fun seekers have traveled through the gates of Springfield’s Forest Park to enjoy a myriad of leisure time activities over the years.

It wasn’t until 1995, however, that a park that was dark at night would be magically filled with lights and memories. Attendance at this city oasis took a staggering jump to over 300,000 visitors in just a little over one month to see Bright Nights at Forest Park.

Now in its 26th year, Bright Nights has earned the title of the Northeast’s “premier holiday lighting experience.”

Over 650,000 lights in beautiful colors adorn one-of-a-kind displays throughout the park taking visitors on a magical three-mile holiday journey.

“We expect that this year’s Bright Nights will be our biggest ever. People need a reason to get out of their homes

and celebrate after what has been a very stressful year between COVID-19

Now in its 26th year, Bright Nights has earned the title of the Northeast’s “premier holiday lighting experience.” and the turmoil in our country,” said Judith A. Matt, president of the Spirit of Springfield, organizers of the nationally-recognized holiday light fest.

Bright Nights at Forest Park began with the vision of two people who

AT FOREST PARK were both champions of a city they had grown to love over their lifetime.

It started back in February 1995 with a brochure about holiday lighting displays that came across the desk of Patrick J. Sullivan, executive director, Springfield Department of Parks, Buildings & Recreation Management.

He knew that taking on such an ambitious project to turn Forest Park into a winter wonderland of festive lights would require additional help, a lot of help. He turned to Matt at the Spirit of Springfield, where “thinking big” is their forte.

Eventually the brochure led to a call to Carpenter Decorating in Hickory, North Carolina.

When speaking with Dennis Bell, Carpenter Decorating’s director of sales, Matt shared some of their ideas for displays with him and told Bell that GOLOCALMAGAZINES.COM 31

they wanted to create a holiday lighting display unique in the country, one that would reflect the true “spirit” of the Springfield area. Wasting no time, Bell sent John Catenaci, the company’s design director, to Springfield.

Immediately on his journey through the park, Catenaci began to paint a picture in his mind where some of the displays that organizers wanted him to design would go. There would be the Cat in the Hat, skaters as a tip of the hat to Everett Barney who not only donated land for Forest Park, but also invented the modern-day ice skate, and board pieces as a tribute to nearby Milton Bradley Company in East Longmeadow, now known as Hasbro.

Today, as drivers make their way into Forest Park - joining over 6 million visitors from around the world who have visited Bright Nights over the years - they will be greeted at the front gate with some giant red flowers in Poinsettia Fantasy, then continue their tour viewing displays called American Flag, Spirit of the Season, Winter Garden, Springfield Thunderbirds, MGM Springfield, Seuss Land, Letters to Santa, Garden of Peace, Jurassic World, Victorian Village, Barney Mansion, Leaping Frog, Winter Woods, North Pole Village, Toy Land, Giant Poinsettia Candles and Happy Holidays, Springfield.

To keep visitors safe and healthy this season while traveling through the 32 GO LOCAL DECEMBER 2020

winter wonderland of lights, some changes had to be made including new hours, how to purchase tickets, and foregoing some family-fun activities until hopefully next year.

For those familiar with Bright Nights and who have made it a family tradition over the past 25 years, this year’s journey is drive-through only and Santa’s Magical Forest, which was home to the gift shop, children’s rides, and photos with Santa, will be closed to visitors. Horse-drawn wagon and carriage rides have also been suspended until next year.

The good news is that Santa will be leaving his elves behind to run the shop, and he will be traveling from the North Pole to Bright Nights every Friday, Saturday and Sunday from 5-8 p.m. where he will be waving to passers-by just inside the gates.

If you want a memento of your visit to Bright Nights, you can still purchase one, but you will need to head to downtown Springfield beforehand, where the gift shop has been moved to the William C. Sullivan Regional Visitor Center at 1319 Main St. For hours visit springfielddowntown.com/ springfield-regional-visitor-center/.

While in the gift shop, visitors can purchase the recently-published 25th anniversary book – “Bright Nights – A Treasured Tradition for 25 Years.” The book is filled with memories sent to the Spirit of Springfield from those who have traveled through Bright Nights, stories about how it all started and the crew that keeps it all together, and tons of color photographs of the holiday park in all its glory and more.

In addition to all kinds of Bright Nights GOLOCALMAGAZINES.COM 33

mementoes and other gifts, the tradition continues this year of introducing a second in the series of children’s books especially created for the Spirit of Springfield. Written by Michele Dufresne, “The Perfect Place” is about a dinosaur who is afraid of the dark, but finds comfort in the twinkling magic of Bright Nights. The book costs $10, $20 including the plush deer from the story, or $12 for the deer alone.

While in the gift shop, visitors can also purchase copies of the first book in the series, “The Little Reindeer Lights the Night.”

This year’s Bright Nights runs through Jan. 3.

Hours are Sunday through Thursday from 4:30 to 8:45 p.m.; Friday, Saturday and holidays from 4:30 to 8:45 p.m.

The magical journey is open for Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day. Ticket prices are $23 per car, limousines are $35, mini buses seating 17-31 persons are $50, and buses with a seating capacity of more than 31 persons are $100. Tickets will not be sold at the gate this year and must be purchased in advance at brightnights.org or at Big Y World Class Markets for $16.50 with your Silver Savings Club Card.

For something extra, the Spirit of Springfield offers a free Bright Nights Loyalty Card, which never expires and offers holders a variety of perks, including a restaurant coupon book, 25% off Bright Night’s merchandise and the new gift shop located at Springfield’s Visitors Center, and much more. Also, while supplies last for Loyalty Card members, they can pick up a free mask and 2020 ornament at the Visitors Center. Registration for the card and a complete list of other freebies is available at brightnights.org.

Restrooms are available for emergency use only and are located near the entrance.

Masks must be worn upon exiting your car.

If you want to check out the traffic at the gates before venturing out to visit Bright Nights at Forest Park, you can check brightnights.org/live-webcam.

After leaving Bright Nights, the light show continues in downtown Springfield, where buildings such as Monarch Place, MassLive, TD Bank, Tower Square, as well as MGM Springfield are shining brightly. Also, Court Square has a 30-ft traditional Christmas tree decorated with colored lights and an illuminated fountain. There are also halos on the park’s light poles and halos up and down the Memorial Bridge. And as you travel Main Street into the North End, there are snowflakes adorning the light posts.

For the most up-to-date information on Bright Nights, call 413-733-3800 or visit brightnights.org.

34 GO LOCAL DECEMBER 2020

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Agawam Pack & Ship Shipping, Packing, Mailbox Rental, Notary Public, Copy & Fax, Paper Shredding, Phone Accessories

417 Springfield Street, Agawam, MA Phone: 413.789.1023 | Fax: 413.789.1549

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HAPPY HOLIDAYS! Roger Trombly, CBR Realtor®, Licensed in MA & CT

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local einstein

TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE - NO GOOGLING!

RUDOLPH THE RED-NOSED REINDEER WAS CREATED AS A PROMO FOR WHAT DEPARTMENT STORE? [A] [B] [C] [D]

3

IN “THE TWELVE DAYS OF CHRISTMAS, ” HOW MANY PIPERS ARE PIPING?

Macy’s J.C. Penny Montgomery Ward Sears & Roebuck

[A] 11 [B] 10 [C] 9 [D] 8 IN THE TV SPECIAL, FROSTY THE SNOWMAN, WHAT DOES FROSTY SAY WHEN HE FIRST COMES TO LIFE?

IN WHAT DECADE DID NORAD FIRST TRACK SANTA ON CHRISTMAS EVE? [A] 1950s [B] 1960s [C] 1970s [D] 1980s

5

[A] Good morning!

[B] Merry Christmas!

[C] Happy Birthday!

[D] Hello!

WHICH US STATE HAS A TOWN CALLED SANTA CLAUS?

WHERE IS CHRISTMAS ISLAND LOCATED? [A] Arctic Ocean [B] Atlantic Ocean [C] Indian Ocean [D] Pacific Ocean

[A] Wyoming [B] Indiana [C] Idaho [D] Nevada

7

WHO COMPOSED THE MUSICAL MASTERPIECE “THE MESSIAH?

8

WHICH HISTORIC EVENT HAPPENED ON CHRISTMAS DAY? [A] George Washington crossed the Delaware [B] Abraham Lincoln was assassinated [C] Neil Armstrong walked on the moon [D] Richard Nixon resigns office

[A] Mozart [B] Handel [C] Wagner [D] Beethoven

[A] Tom Hanks [B] Arnold Schwarzenegger [C] Tim Allen [D] Will Farrell

38 GO LOCAL DECEMBER 2020

# CORRECT

IQ

RANK

ANSWERS:

8-9 5-7 2-4 0-1

160 110 50 3

Prodigy Egghead Meh Simpleton

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

WHO WAS THE STAR OF THE CHRISTMAS MOVIE “JINGLE ALL THE WAY?”

The Final Countdown

7 Unique Places For Holiday Gifts ROARING ACRES ALPACA FARM & BOUTIQUE 685 HALE STREET, SUFFIELD, CT ROARINGACRESALPACAS.COM

Soft, warm and beautiful alpaca products, such as hats, gloves, scarves, blankets and nesting balls are made from the fur from the farm’s alpacas. New this year are alpaca felted soaps and felted dryer balls.

Visit the alpacas and other animals while at the farm!

SO COOL GIFTS

345 HOLYOKE STREET, LUDLOW, MA SHOPSOCOOLGIFTS.COM Thoughtful and unique gifts and accessories for life’s special moments, with special attention given to creating personalized gifts, can be found here. 10% of net profits are donated to organizations that assist women and families.

TULIP’S GIFT SHOP

93B RAFFIA ROAD, ENFIELD, CT TULIPSGIFTSHOP.COM Over 30 local artisans and crafters contribute to the gifts, home décor, and accent furniture you will find here. Specializing in décor and signs personalized for your home town or that of a friend or family member.

SOMERSVILLAGE GIFTS & GOURMET 111 MAIN STREET, SOMERS, CT SOMERSVILLAGEGIFTS.COM

Seasonal decorations for the home; special gifts for babies and young children; hostess gifts; remembrance gifts; and gourmet food items are plentiful here. Creating beautiful, personalized gourmet food and gift baskets is their specialty.

THE ECLECTIC PEACOCK

THE BLUE DRAGON FLY

GREENLEAF POTTERY

This boutique carries designer clothes for men and women; a wide variety of beautifully crafted accessories and jewelry; and fine art. Their oneof-a-kind gifts and décor range from primitive and vintage-inspired pieces to garden accents and tea party niceties.

A wide variety of items are available in this award winning store, such as candles, bath products, clothing, books and games for children, and locally made jewelry and pottery. As part of Family Partnerships of CT, they employ and train individuals with special needs.

Individually hand-crafted and functional stoneware pottery is made in this studio by John Macomber. His limited edition and custom pieces are richly colored, delicately designed, and extremely durable. Commemorative bowls can be engraved with names and dates for special occasions.

492 ENFIELD STREET, ENFIELD, CT ECLECTICPEACOCK.COM

144 A BROAD STREET, WINDSOR, CT FACEBOOK.COM/THEBLUEDRAGONFLYGIFTSHOP

240 CHAPEL ROAD, SOUTH WINDSOR, CT GREENLEAFPOTTERY.NET

GOLOCALMAGAZINES.COM 39