APRIL 2020

April 2020 Volume 6 . Issue 5 golocalmagazines.com

ZING! Table tennis csa guide inside!

H.R. Wellness spa Bake, Craft and Create

Check it out:

skyline Beer Co. in westfield, ma GOLOCALMAGAZINES.COM 1

2 GO LOCAL APRIL 2020

new this month APRIL 2020 . VOLUME 6 . ISSUE 5

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H.R. WELLNESS MEANS YOU GET A HEALTHY RETREAT WHEN YOU VISIT. Would you like to have glowing skin, reduce your stress or pain, feel pampered, get healthier, and look better? It seems impossible, but you can accomplish all of this and more at the H.R. Wellness Spa in Stafford Springs, Connecticut.

6

A NOTE

8

GO ON, YOUR SAY

13

From The Editor 15 Minutes Of Fame

BAKE, CRAFT AND CREATE

Amazing yummy treats

GUIDE 18 CSA Local, Seasonal Eats

GOLOCALMAGAZINES.COM 3

APRIL 2020 . VOLUME 6 . ISSUE 5

19

H.R. Wellness Spa

22

Local Snapshot

25

GO LOCAL PICKS

29

Zing!

34

go eat

35

Skyline Beer Co.

38

Local Einstein

39

FINAL COUNTDOWN

Healthy Retreat in Stafford Springs Springtime Pansies

13

Cool Stuff Just Outside Your Door Table Tennis anyone?

Coriander Maple Glazed Rainbow Carrots Good beer, good food and good vibes in Westfield.

Put Your Thinking Caps On 7 Great Sweet Spots

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4 GO LOCAL APRIL 2020

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GOLOCALMAGAZINES.COM 5

a note

FROM THE MANAGING EDITOR . G. MICHAEL DOBBS

This issue of Go Local extends a promise to its readers: yes, life will eventually return to normal and there are some great places to visit and things to do here in our area.

I realize the word “go” is significant with this magazine.

The publication was conceived as a way to emphasize the things in our region we might take for granted. Perhaps we are not aware of the many talented artisans in a wide variety of vocations who are doing amazing things right within diving distance.

This magazine is preaching a doctrine of getting out of the house and going places for fun, interesting and sometimes truly memorable experiences.

If you’re like me, you’ve been staying at home, even working from home. The “going” part of your life has been reserved for making a paycheck and spending it on essentials.

Our lives changed very quickly with COVID-19. Eating out meant take-out.

Shopping means groceries or gas, basically. Want to see a movie? It depends on what you can stream. Want to take a hike? That’s fine. Just keep at least six feet from one another.

There is a lesson I hope all of us learn about the fragility of modern American life. It can go away pretty quickly.

In every issue of “Go Local,” local businesses and artists are featured. We now have a responsibility to them.

Many small businesses – the back bone of our nation’s economy – will need our help re-starting once the pandemic has passed. I’m sure all of you reading this go to small businesses and might even own one. You then know many are not built financially to withstand local periods of being closed or restricted.

SCORE, an organization that helps small business owners, reports, “Small businesses also keep money in the community. For every dollar you spend at a small business, 67 cents stays in the local community, and a majority of that (44 cents) goes to the small business owner and the wages and benefits of their employees. The benefits don’t stop there either. Small businesses reinvest 23 cents of every dollar into other local businesses.

“Ultimately, that dollar you spent at that small business creates an additional 50 cents of local economic impact, which means when you shop at small businesses, your dollars go a lot further. Thirty cents of that economic impact comes from small businesses using local vendors and 20 cents gets spent locally by the owner and their employees.”

In this issue, our talented writers and photographers take you to Bake, Craft and Create in South Windsor, CT, a wellness spa in Stafford Springs, CT, a table tennis center in Easthampton, Westfield’s Skyline Brewery and seven places in western Massachusetts and northern Connecticut to indulge your sweet tooth.

All of these are small businesses that deserve your support as well as the businesses that advertise and make this magazine possible. Please consider shopping with them before you consider a national chain.

So get ready for spring, get ready to leave your home and get ready for some road trips. Get ready to Go Local again.

- G. Michael Dobbs, Managing Editor

6 GO LOCAL APRIL 2020

MANAGING EDITOR G. Michael Dobbs

CREATIVE

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

DESIGN Michelle Johnson, Manager

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Barb Perry, Manager . Kim Barba . Lisa Nolan Paula Dimauro . Scott Greene . Nancy Holloway Jeanette Grenier . Matt Mahaney Rosanne Miller-Longtin . Victoria Owen Carolyn Napolitan, Sales Assistant

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your say

EDWARD

BECAUSE EVERYONE DESERVES THEIR 15 MINUTES OF FAME

ARIANELA

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What was the last text or message you sent?

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Create C

upcakes that look like a beautiful bouquet of flowers; cookies that look like wedding gowns or sneakers; cakes decorated in many creative ways; flower arranging; calligraphy and stenciling… all this and more can be found at Bake, Craft, and Create in East Windsor, Connecticut.

And guess what? You learn how to decorate, craft and create yourself at one of the classes that are offered, or watch as your children get creative during a workshop, “camp” experience, or a custom birthday party. The owner, baker, decorator and crafter of Bake, Craft and Create, Mercedes Delano, is mostly self-taught, and has been baking and crafting most of her life. In 2018, when Connecticut instituted the cottage food operator license, Delano obtained the license, which allowed her to sell food products from her kitchen to the public. Before and during that time, she took on-line classes, did research on baking and decorating trends, used social media to check in with other decorators, and has been certified from instructors such as Food Network competitors Colette Peters and Tammy Dunwoody. In fact, she credits part of her success so far to “my dear friend Tammy Dunwoody, Food Network Cupcake War competitor and owner of Art of Cake Tammy Dunwoody, her

GOLOCALMAGAZINES.COM 13

studio in New Jersey. She is actually one of the reasons I opened my studio…she is my friend, mentor, teacher, and support system.” Finally, Delano knew it was time for her to open her own studio and make her dream come true. After hiring someone to do a business plan for her, and with additional support from the Town of East Windsor, the family of the late Walter E. Bass (who owns the plaza where the studio is located,) and her fiancée Jimmy Chamberlain, Delano was thrilled to open Bake, Craft, and Create this past December.

Delano offers beginners classes for both children and adults in decorating cookies, cakes and cupcakes, where you are presented with a pre-baked (in her on-site kitchen) item. You then use the products provided for you to create your own masterpiece, with guidance from Delano.

For instance, you may be using buttercream frosting for frosting cakes and cupcakes, and fondant for decorative details. Fondant is a marshmallow flavored “play-doh” type of edible product that you roll out and cut into shapes with cookies cutters. You can also push the fondant into silicone molds and make 3D decorations for your cake. In a recent class on Magically Delicious Cookies, the participants were provided with a medley of different shaped sugar cookies to decorate, using pastry tubes filled with colorful icing.

During an adult cake decorating class, the students were amazed at the professional looking “masterpieces” they were able to create with no prior experience. During these classes, Delano provides a cake covered with fondant for each participant.

Then everyone is free to use their own creativity to make a one-of-a-kind cake using the studio’s tools and Delano’s guidance. There are even Vino and Cake parties, which are similar to “paint and sip” parties, but with a cake for your canvas.

Delano offers children’s workshops during school breaks and summer vacations.

In these classes, the children learn how to make and bake a cake by themselves, then finish up by decorating it, all with guidance and help from Delano. There is an April break “camp” from the 13th to the 17th. If you are interested, see the website for details and to register. Private 14 GO LOCAL APRIL 2020

parties for adults and children can be customized to a theme of your choice.

Recent children’s parties have featured mermaids, princesses, pirates, and pineapples…it’s really up to you! The cost for classes is $25.00/per person and up, depending on what you’d like to do, and costs vary for private parties, again depending on individual customization. Parties generally have a minimum size of 10, and max out at 36. It’s best to call and talk to Delano, or fill out a custom order form on-line.

Delano says she only uses high quality ingredients, and that includes everything from the flour she bakes with to the gel paste coloring and sprinkles. In her small retail area, customers may purchase the above mentioned decorative items, as well as choose from an assortment of American made Ann Clark metal cookie cutters. The cookie cutters include shapes for many everyday occasions, geometrics, hearts, mermaid tails, and holiday themes such as Easter bunnies!

She also has a 3D printer which she will be using to design her own cutters, which will then be available for sale.

Delano welcomes custom orders on cakes, cupcakes (including those amazing cupcake bouquets,) decorative cookies, French macaroons, meringues, and other types of pastries. Customers can call her or go onto the website to fill out a custom order form. Also check the website for the calendar of events for April/Easter, the Spring break camp for children and a retreat for other professionals to share ideas and “just learn from each other.” Also coming soon will be a spring flower arranging class in conjuction with Broadbrook Gardens. You will also find more inspiring pictures of what can be created with a little guidance from a professional during one or more of the fun classes or custom parties!

Bake, Craft and Create is located at 140 North Road in East Windsor. bakecraftandcreate.com 860-386-6945 GOLOCALMAGAZINES.COM 15

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ons. Pork from Mosher Farms of Broad Brook and fruit from Draghi Farms of South Windsor are additional add-ons. If joining the CSA sounds interesting, Bordua Farms will host a Night on the Farm event for current and potential members to learn more about the CSA in September.

SAWMILL HERB FARM

140 MEADOW STREET . FLORENCE, MA (413) 268-4372 . SAWMILLHERBFARM.COM Sawmill Herb Farm provides local access to quality ingredients used in a number of recipes. Before each share, Sawmill Herb Farm sends an e-newsletter with information about the herbs in the upcoming share.

Herbs are grown using sustainable and certified organic practices. A local full share costs $190-200 and includes 10 shares, biweekly pickups from June 4-Sept.

25, one free class in Sawmill Herb Farm’s workshop series, and an invitation for participation in the private CSA Facebook group. A local half-share costs $100-110 and includes 5 shares, monthly pickups from June 18-Sept.11 and an invitation for participation in the private CSA Facebook group. Examples of herbs that can be found in each share include yellow dock root, motherwort, elder flowers, blue vervain, lemongrass and dandelion root.

DOWN TO EARTH FARM CSA

5 MICHELEC ROAD . STAFFORD, ct (860) 851-9617 . GETDOWNTOEARTH.ORG Down to Earth Farm’s CSA offers a unique experience.

It provides members with the opportunity to work on the farm where their fresh produce will be grown!

Work sessions are two hours every other week and involves tasks such as soil preparation, planting, watering, weeding and harvesting. There is always staff on site to provide support and work times are flexible. For those not interested in working on the farm, Down to Earth Farm’s CSA also offers non-working shares.

bordua farms

1536 main street . south windsor, ct (860) 335-2705 . borduafarms.com Bordua Farms provides a bountiful CSA that allows members to receive an assortment of produce once a week for 18 weeks. Each share is expected to feed a family of 2-4 people. Examples of produce in each share are beets, cabbage, herbs, melons and peppers.

In October, 2 ornamental pumpkins are also included.

The farm also has a floral add-on that provides CSA members with 6 bouquets. Bordua Farms teams up with other local businesses to provide unique add-

scantic valley csa

244 Hampden Road . East Longmeadow, ma (413) 627-2718 Scantic Valley CSA collaborates with small, local farms including Pomeroy’s Vegetable Farm, Crow River Farm and D&R Farm. They offer a fresh and delicious selection in their shares that varies by week. Whole Shares ($620) and Half Shares ($340) are available. Scantic Valley CSA ensures all partners use sustainable practices, including vegetables and fruits grown free of synthetic pesticides and herbicides.

oxen hill farm

1434 Hill Street . Suffield, CT (860) 986-2284 . oxenhillfarm.com Oxen Hill Farm is offering their 12th USDA Organic Summer CSA program in 2020. The farm offers a variety of shares curated to meet the needs of each individual. Oxen Hill Farm is one of few USDA Certified Organic vegetable farms in North Central Connecticut, which is something you can feel good about!

Kosinski Farms and Farmstand 336 / 420 Russellville Road, Westfield, MA (413) 572-4344 . kosinskifarms.net

When you become a member of the Kosinski Farms CSA family we commit to raising your food with sustainable and environmentally responsible practices. We guarantee that your food will be grown and harvested locally. Our season starts with the first pick of strawberries, usually the second week of June and continues through the middle of October. These dates are contingent on the weather and may need to be adjusted.

granny’s place

844 main street . agawam, ma (413) 786-9366 . grannysplaceagawam.com Granny’s Place provides farm shares for 17 weeks, from June 7 to September 27. Three share sizes are available: Individual/Senior Share for $250, Small Share for $400 and Large Share for $650. For $50, members can add a dozen farm fresh eggs. Granny’s Place offers a wide range of fresh vegetables including asparagus, potatoes, apples and squash.

syme family farm

72 windsorville road . broad brook, ct (860) 623-5925 . symefamilyfarm.com The Syme Family Farm CSA is a little different from the usual fruit and vegetable share. The farm in Broad Brook offers a Cut Flower Club CSA, where members sign up and pre-pay for 8 weeks worth of locally grown flower bouquets. Flowers are picked up weekly between July and August.

Mountain View Farm CSA

393 east street . easthampton, ma (413) 329-0211 . mountainviewfarmcsa.com Mountain View Farm offers three different share packages. The Singles/Couples share costs $400, the Regular share $625 and the Farm Share Plus $710. All share packages include U-Pick access. U-Pick gives members access to fields where you will find a harvest of items such as flowers, cherry tomatoes, cilantro, peas and beans.

Easy Pickin’s Orchard

46 Bailey Road . Enfield, ct (860) 763-3276 . easypickinsorchard.com

Easy Pickin’s Orchard has been offering CSA shares for a decade from their pick-your-own farm. Each box picked up from the CSA will feature whichever fruits and vegetables are in their prime during the season, including strawberries, blueberries, onions and tomatoes. Easy Pickin’s utilizes a integrated pest management system to ensure high-quality growing practices.

For pricing, CSA details and specific pickup locations (many producers offer various sites) for the 2020 season, please contact farm directly. This is not a comprehensive list, if you would to be included in future publications, please contact: mjohnson@repub.com Go Green: Remember to bring a reusable bag, basket or bin with you to pick up your CSA harvest. The less plastic, the better!

FIND YOUR LOCAL, SEASONAL EATS! CISA Community Involved in Sustaining Local Agriculture • BUYLOCALFOOD.ORG BUY CT GROWN Where to find CT Grown Products • FARMTOCOMMUNITY.UCONN.EDU LOCAL FARMERS MARKETS Many have year-round markets • LOCALHARVEST.ORG LOCAL FOOD ASSOCIATIONS CTFOODASSOCIATION.ORG • MAFOOD.COM 18 GO LOCAL APRIL 2020

COMMUNITY GARDEN • COMMUNITYGARDEN.ORG LOCAL CO-OPS WILLIMANTICFOOD.COOP • RIVERVALLEY.COOP DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE • CT.GOV • MASS.GOV

W

ould you like to have glowing skin, reduce your stress or pain, feel pampered, get healthier, and look better? It seems impossible, but you can accomplish all of this and more at the H.R. Wellness Spa in Stafford Springs, Connecticut.

H.R. Wellness means you get a Healthy Retreat when you visit, and according to owner Rose Gay, “we do all we can to ensure your wellness. We offer the best of science and nature by researching and then using products and techniques that are proven by science and also incorporate healthy elements of nature like scientifically proven botanicals that really make a difference in the body. Ingredients like medicinal mushrooms, plant stem cells and peptides along with CBD and more. We try to personally connect with all of our clients and really listen to their needs. Our treatments tend to be a little longer and our space tends to be a little quieter than some. Coming from a medical background I feel it is important to also provide a clean and safe space for our clients to enjoy. We use a medical autoclave to sterilize our implements, use silver Nano (antibacterial) technology built into our pedicure tubs and we only use hospital grade disinfectants to help keep our clients safe. We have special full spectrum lighting therapy that prevents seasonal affective disorder. Beverages are available as well as phone chargers so people on the go can “recharge” in more ways than one. The products we offer for sale are award winning and top of class to really help solve problems our clients might have. We will always continue our research

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 VICKI MITCHELL

HR

Wellness Spa

GOLOCALMAGAZINES.COM 19

and education so we can continue to provide the best products and services in the future.”

In keeping with her desire to give her clients the best available service, Gay holds numerous licenses in areas such as massage therapy, Reiki, manicurist, esthetician, and aromatherapy. She is also certified in the use of different equipment like Bio Ultimate Platinum Microcurrent, DermaSound (power ultrasound technology), Procell Microchanneling (latest science using human Mesenchymal Stem Cells in a serum to make skin act as it did when it was more youthful, which helps with wrinkles, scarring, brightening and more).

“Can you tell I’m a science geek that loves education? The science of skin is always changing and we need to keep up with the latest discoveries if we are going to help people.”

With all of this experience, she also worked for 38 years as a dental surgical assistant. Her background has probably played a role in the life-saving advice she has given to more than one client. As Gay tells it, “I had a client once that was having a pedicure, and I felt something on the back of her leg and when I looked more closely I saw a very suspicious mole.

I found a gentle way to let her know this should be checked by a dermatologist. I didn’t see her again so I thought maybe she didn’t like my pedicure. About 6 months later she walked in and grabbed me and gave me the biggest hug and thanked me for saving her life. You see, the ‘mole’ was a deadly melanoma and they removed a large part of her calf before putting her through more therapy to prevent it from spreading to other parts of her body. She told me that she had had her yearly physical just the week before that pedicure and that the doctor never checked the back of her as she was sitting on the table. She stated that if she hadn’t gotten a pedicure that day she probably wouldn’t be alive today. Since then I have been able to refer many other people for further evaluation and early intervention.

I also had a client come to me with back pain and she wanted a massage. As I worked I didn’t feel any tight muscles in the area of complaint. After asking more questions about the type and area of pain, I was able to determine it was on a dermatome (nerve pathway) and felt it could be shingles, so I referred the woman to her physician. When the physician saw her the next day a rash was just barely noticeable. He gave her antivirals and stated that he had never seen a patient before the actual rash, which got her the earliest treatment, and thus minimized the length and severity of the symptoms. I also had a friend I worked with who came to me asking what she should do with her very dry cracked lips. I gave her a good regimen to do at home but when it didn’t yield results in a week I felt that there was something much more 20 GO LOCAL APRIL 2020

serious that may be going on and referred her to a dermatologist. It was squamous cell cancer and they removed quite a bit of her lip but were able to save the rest. I can’t imagine how much she might have been disfigured if it had gone undiagnosed for another 6 months. Bottom line, helping people just makes me feel happy and that’s why I do what I do. It is sometimes so much more important than just a beauty treatment!”

The science that is offered at H.R. Wellness Spa comes in the traditional and more unique spa experiences, such as various types of massage (including one using CBD topical pain relieving balm,) manicures and pedicures, facials, aromatherapy, and even an oxygen bar. Advanced facial services include chemical peels, Procell Microchanneling, Oxygen Infusion, DermaSound Ultrasonic facials and microdermabrasion.

Gay enjoys changing her spa décor with the seasons and offering signature beverages and snacks, such as recognizing Margarita Month, Valentine’s Month, Mother’s Day, Zen Garden Summer and Winter Warmers.

“We love to mix up different combinations of treatments and add fun scents to our specials. There are lots of extras to make it really special. Our clients always look forward to the next theme change,” she says.

When asked what her favorite treatment at the spa for herself would be, she answered “Probably the Procell Microchanneling because it gives the biggest difference in aging skin and really helps people feel better about themselves. And of course, massage is as good for the soul as it is for the body. For me it would be a toss-up between the Swedish massage and the foot reflexology, which affects the whole body through the 7,000 nerve endings and reflex zones.”

She credits her family and friends for being amazingly supportive in her endeavors at the spa, particularly her husband of 45 years, Jeff, who is “always there to help me build things, move things, repair things, and is great for bouncing ideas off of.” She has recently hired her first employee, Lauren Bousquet, who also holds certifications in numerous spa services. She and Gay share the same mindset when it comes to taking care of the whole person, and thinks of their services as much more than just a beauty treatment. She was also willing to play the part of a client receiving a Procell Microchanneling treatment for our photo shoot.

Gay’s favorite part of the business is seeing people smile, or helping relieve their pain. “It is so rewarding,” she says. “I really love doing facials, but then I guess I got into this business because I enjoy all of what I do!”

H.R. Wellness Spa is located at 7 Magauren Drive, Suite #4 (They share a parking lot with Johnson Memorial Hospital) info@HRWellnessSpa.com 860-684-1158 GOLOCALMAGAZINES.COM 21

local snapshot  Shauna Burdick

22 GO LOCAL APRIL 2020

SPRINGTIME PANSIES

During cool spring and fall seasons, with few other flowers out in bloom, pansies fill gardens with vibrant color. Pansies have gained new popularity as edible blossoms favored by prominent chefs.

Feels Like Home

NOW OPEN!

The Ivy at Ellington is the newest assisted living residential community from The Arbors Assisted Living Residential Communities. Ellington has its roots as an agricultural community as well as a resort community with Crystal Lake within its boundaries. Conveniently located at 123 West Road in Ellington, CT, our community offers 79 one and two-bedroom apartments, as well as Reflections, our specialized memory support environment. In our elegant home-like environment, residents can enjoy many amenities, including dining on local culinary favorites, participating in engaging and enriching social opportunities, and quality personal care services daily.

The Ivy Ellington offers many levels of care.

Please contact us for more information.

The Ivy at Ellington 123 West Road, Ellington, CT | 860-926-0222 theivyassistedliving.com

Stafford Savings Bank Yes...We DoConstruction Loans 3 Simple Reasons Why a Construction Loan with Stafford Savings Bank Will Save You Time and Money • One Closing - We offer Construction to Permanent Financing • Standard Rates - We do not charge any interest rate premium for our construction to permanent loans • Rate Discount - We offer a Rate Discount for automatic payment from a SSB Checking or Now account

Main Office: 860-684-4261

Serving the Towns of Stafford, Ellington, Union, Tolland, Ashford, Willington and Somers.

GOLOCALMAGAZINES.COM 23

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go local picks

COOL STUFF JUST OUTSIDE YOUR DOOR AND ONLINE!

ONLINE CONCERTS LISTEN IN THE COMFORT OF YOUR HOME BELOW IS A LIST OF ONLINE CONCERTS FOR YOUR LISTENING PLEASURE • Singer/songwriter Robert C. Fullerton half hour concerts on Wednesdays at 7:30 p.m. facebook.com/robertcfullerton • Folk artist Ramblin’ Dan Stevens is hosting live-streamed performances. facebook.com/ramblindanstevens • Songwriter and guitarist extraordinaire Glenn Roth: facebook.com/glennrothguitar • Folk singer Seth Adam past and future live stream shows at: facebook.com/sethadammusic • Benny Mikula, front man for roots rock act The Alpaca Gnomes has videos featuring original music and requested cover songs: facebook. com/thelonegnome • Jazz/R&B artist Orice Jenkins: facebook.com/oricejenkinsmusic • Singer/songwriter Elle Sera with full live-streams and more weekly: facebook.com/elleseramusic

FOR KIDS: CHECK OUT: FACEBOOK.COM/MISTERLOBSTERMUSIC/ FOR FUN SONGS AND SING-ALONGS. M-F AT 11:00 AM.

COPPER HILL FARM ONLINE DAILY STORY TIME FRIEDA B. HERSELF - THE STORY BARN FRIEDAB.COM/THESTORYBARN • FACEBOOK.COM/FRIEDABHERSELF Free online storytime every weekday! Renata Bowers will read a children’s story live(!) every weekday at 4pm EST at: facebook.com/friedabherself Sometimes the story will be one of hers, sometimes someone else’s. But one thing’s guaranteed: It will be a wonderful moment of story and togetherness. Because if you can’t come to The Story Barn, then they’ll just bring the barn to you.

COPPER HILL FARM STORE, 144 HALL HILL ROAD, SOMERS, CT 860-306-9604 • FACEBOOK.COM/COPPERHILLBEYONDORGANIC/ They are a small-family, pasture based, beyond organic farm here in Northeastern CT, with a focus on community rather than profit. From Heirloom Vegetables, Mangalitsa Heritage Pigs, Thanksgiving Turkeys and Pasture Raised Chicken Eggs, they do their best to provide healthy, humanely raised, alternatively fed chemical free food to the community via their Farm Store and The Ellington Farmers Market.

The farm store will open for special weekend hours - Planned hours will be Saturday 12-8 and Sunday 12-4. Check out the farm facebook page, with tons of pictures and info on all they have stocked.

Plus take a peek at events planned for late Spring and Summer! facebook.com/CopperHillBeyondOrganic/ GOLOCALMAGAZINES.COM 25

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rossicollisionrepair.com 26 GO LOCAL APRIL 2020

en Now Op for the !

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Agawam Pack & Ship Shipping, Packing, Mailbox Rental, Notary Public, Copy & Fax, Phone Accessories, Paper Shredding Alan R. Cohen, Richard A. Cohen, 417 Springfield Street, Agawam, MA Sales & Service e of Major Powerr Products for Over 50 Years

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SPECIALTY CAKES & BAKED GOODS

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We take food allergies very seriously. But that doesn’t stop us from baking our lovely confections for your special occasions!

Let us turn your ideas into delicious creations!

28 GO LOCAL APRIL 2020

! TIERA N. WRIGHT  NATE BLAIS

Zing!

Forrest Gump. Beer. Parker Brothers.

What does an Oscar winning movie, a popular beverage, and the company that gave us game night staples, such as Monopoly and Clue, have in common? Two words— Table Tennis; or as popularized and ultimately trademarked by the Parker Brothers in the United States, Ping-Pong.

“Table Tennis is the best sport because it can be played by anyone from ages five to 95,” says Noel Abbott, owner of Zing! Table Tennis Center.

“We have customers in their 80s; Table Tennis doesn’t take much strength, and it’s not too expensive. On the other hand, for kids it builds speed, reflexes, concentration and endurance.”

Its name symbolizing the rapid movement of the game ball, Zing!

Table for Two: Game Night with Zing!

Table Tennis Center is a year-round, climate-controlled facility that opened in Easthampton’s Keystone Building in July 2016. “Zing! is the region’s only full-time table tennis center,” says Abbott, adding, “this is a place for everyone.” While memberships are available, Abbott says all are welcomed no matter their levels of play. For those wanting to give Table Tennis a try, Zing! offers an introductory one-month unlimited play membership for $20. Member only benefits include reduced rates on court time and robot rentals, as well as discounts on Pro Shop purchases, and bookings for private parties.

GOLOCALMAGAZINES.COM 29

Zing! offers table time and robot rentals, Round Robin Leagues (where anyone can drop in and play), tournaments, and more. New to Zing!, and growing in popularity, is Pickleball— which is a cross between tennis, badminton and table tennis, scheduled Sunday nights through Tuesday mornings. On the second and fourth Monday of the month Zing! holds a Women’s Community night for Table Tennis. They also have specialized programs and memberships for kids interested in playing. In the past, “I’ve offered scholarships to a limited number of motivated kids to learn Table Tennis as part of our Junior Program; we love kids,” says Abbott.

“They can come play with their parents or other kids, join our Junior Program, or take a hit on our robot.”

“Private and group lessons with 30 GO LOCAL APRIL 2020

USA Table Tennis certified pros” are also available, adds Abbott, a former Tennis pro and certified table tennis coach himself. “If you can scratch your head, you can play this game and I can prove it!” Guests can also feel free to book birthday parties and events such as graduations, corporate events, and wedding groups. “We also offer special discounts for school groups, nonprofits like Big Brothers/Big Sisters, and others.”

Complete with nine professional tables, an open floor plan and lounge, amenities include healthy drinks and snacks, as well as an onsite, full service Pro Shop for both Table Tennis and Pickleball. Reasonably priced and available to sample or test, Zing!’s Pro Shop sells anything from paddles and balls, to tables and nets, as well as Zing! t-shirts and polos. Adds Abbott, “both pre-assembled and custom-built paddles,” can also be found in the Pro Shop.

Ultimately, Abbott stresses that Zing!

Table Tennis Center warmly welcomes any and everyone. Per Zing!’s website, Abbott states, “no matter who you are – your skill, fitness level or age – table tennis brings vitality and joy to all. I invite you to play, improve your skills, and celebrate your life through Table Tennis.”

For more information on Zing!

Table Tennis Center, memberships or to book a table, visit www.zingtt.com.

GOLOCALMAGAZINES.COM 31

GET READY “Schedule Your Service NOW for the Spring”

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Store Hours: Tue-Wed, Sat-Sun 10-5 • Thu-Fri 12-7 32 GO LOCAL APRIL 2020

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go eat

! RECIPE SUBMITTED BY JANET PARÉ

CORIANDER MAPLE GLAZED RAINBOW CARROTS

This simple and elegant, sweet and nutty side dish will add a pop of color to your Easter table. It's so versatile it pairs well with ham, pork, chicken or beef. Can't find rainbow carrots, no worries. Regular carrots are just as delicious.

2 1/2 lbs. rainbow carrots

Place oven racks in middle and lower positions.

3 tbsp. olive oil

Preheat oven to 425°

Coarse salt and pepper

Halve or quarter large carrots to get uniform sizes so carrots cook evenly. In a large bowl toss carrots with olive oil and crushed coriander. Salt and pepper to taste.

3 tbsp. pure maple syrup

Divide in half and place on two rimmed baking sheets.

3 tsp. whole coriander seeds, crushed

1 tbsp. fresh lime juice Zest of one lime

Roast for 15 minutes, stir carrots, then rotate the pans. Continue roasting for another 10 minutes or until carrots are tender. Remove from oven and place carrots in large bowl.

Combine maple syrup, lime juice and zest. Pour over carrots and toss to coat. Plate and serve.

JANET PARÉ is a home cook who began baking with her Memere (grandmother) at the age of 6. Retired and living in Southampton with her dog, Ziggy and cat, Elie Mae, she now enjoys cooking for family and friends.

34 GO LOCAL APRIL 2020

! HOPE E. TREMBLAY  HOPE E. TREMBLAY / SKYLINE BEER CO. FACEBOOK PAGE

SKYLINE BEER CO. Business partners and friends Lisa Pac, Dan Osella and Dana Bishop are truly living their dream.

The owners of Skyline Beer Co. in Westfield brought their vision of a brewery where friends gather for good beer, good food and good vibes to fruition last fall when they moved to the 4,500 square-foot building on Southwick Road.

This is the third location for Skyline, which opened five years ago. At that time, Pac and Osella were partners and brought fresh, high-quality food and home-brewing supplies and classes to their space inside the Westfield River Brewery.

While they had success there, Pac wanted to bring her knowledge of beer to the table, literally. They found space in downtown Westfield and opened with local craft beer, adding whiskey and wine, also locally sourced. It was a bigger success than they expected, yet Pac still longed to brew her own beer.

She and Osella joined forces with friend and fellow brewer Bishop and purchased their own building at the former Fowler Farms.

The new space was welcomed by the community, many of whom helped along the way, whether it was by attending one of Skyline’s fundraisGOLOCALMAGAZINES.COM 35

ing events, clearing brush from the lot, spreading mulch or swinging a hammer.

Pac said she knew people would want to help, but she was overwhelmed by how many people stepped up.

“Everyone wanted to help and be a part of this,” Pac said. “I knew people would want to do this, but I didn’t realize how many.”

Skyline has a rustic, fresh feeling inside.

Reclaimed wood – most of which came from the original structure – has been carefully and painstakingly hung on the walls in various patterns. Much attention to tiny details has been paid, from matching the hue of the wood in corners of door trim to creating a custom stain that mimics some of the weathering on the wood.

The 10-barrel, 300-gallon brewing system is what excites Pac the most. Skyline offers its own beers on tap, including its Wobbly Boots and Bushwacker as well as rotating taps. Their Pothole Porter and fruit infused flavors, such as Raspberry Jam, are customer favorites. They also offer local tequila and whiskey.

“We host whiskey dinners and every Tuesday we have fruit-infused tequila margaritas,” said Pac. Occasional trivia and comedy nights, 36 GO LOCAL APRIL 2020

Open Mic events and live acoustic music round-out the entertainment, but even without that, customers flock to Skyline for its beer and food.

Osella is the chef and has always been committed to using local, fresh food. His offerings include sandwiches, soups and even skewers of bacon. Osella’s infamous pretzels come in several varieties, with dipping sauces that range from sweet to savory to spicy.

Pac said this spring, Osella is bringing back a crowd favorite – the Skyline flatbread.

“Everyone has been asking for the flatbread to come back, so we brought it back,” she said.

Pac said their customers have become family, and that’s a key to their success. For Pac, Osella and Bishop, three things drive their business, just like their website states: Food.

Beer. Family.

Skyline Beer Co., 98 Southwick Road, is open 4-9 p.m. Tuesday – Thursday, 2-10 p.m. Friday and Saturday and 12-4 p.m. on Sunday.

we are still open with adjusted Hours during the pandemic : Mon closed Tues-Thursday 3-7 Fri - sat 3-8 • Sun 1-5 GOLOCALMAGAZINES.COM 37

local einstein

TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE - NO GOOGLING!

WHO WERE THE FIRST FATHER & SON TO PLAY AS MLB TEAMMATES?

WHAT CITY IS THE CAPITAL OF AUSTRALIA? [A] [B] [C] [D]

3

Perth Sydney Canberra Melbourne

[A] [B] [C] [D]

WHAT WAS WALT DISNEY’S ORIGINAL NAME FOR MICKEY MOUSE BEFORE HIS WIFE CONVINCED HIM TO CHANGE IT?

WHAT ARE THE EYES OF MARSHMALLOW PEEPS MADE OF? [A] Chocolate [B] Wax [C] Caramel [D] Brown Sugar

5

7

[A] Michael [B] Milo [C] Mortimer [D] Malcolm

WHAT IS THE MOST EXPENSIVE PROPERTY IN THE BOARD GAME MONOPOLY? [A] [B] [C] [D]

NAME THIS U.S. STATE… [A] Ohio [B] Iowa [C] Utah [D] Nebraska

Park Place Pennsylvania Avenue Indiana Avenue Boardwalk

OPHIDIOPHOBIA IS THE FEAR OF WHAT?

WHAT SOFT DRINK WAS THE FIRST PRODUCT EVER TO APPEAR ON THE COVER OF TIME MAGAZINE?

8

[A] Pepsi [B] Coca Cola [C] Dr. Pepper [D] 7-Up

[A] Snakes [B] Thunder & Lightning [C] Horses [D] Trains

[A] Camp Crescent Lake [B] Camp Kikiwaka [C] Camp Clear Lake [D] Camp Crystal Lake

Visit Our Showroom - Deal with the Owner 40 Years Experience

S

# CORRECT

IQ

RANK

ANSWERS:

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

160 110 50 3

Prodigy Egghead Meh Simpleton

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

WHERE DOES THE FILM FRIDAY THE 13TH TAKE PLACE?

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585 Hazard Avenue (Rt. 190), Enfield, CT (in the Scitico Plaza) Store: 860-749-5112 • Owner’s Cell: 860-573-7908 Hours: Mon-Fri 10am-5pm, Sat by Appointment 38 GO LOCAL APRIL 2020

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The Final Countdown

7 Great Sweet Spots Sweet tooth? Check out these great places for a sweet treat!

PETE’S SWEETS

TASTE BY SPELLBOUND II

Baker Peter Gray appeared on TLC’s “Next Great Baker” several years ago, and now he is the proud owner of Pete’s Sweets. The bakery is a great place to swing in and grab yourself a delectable baked good, whether it’s a 7-layer bar or a tasty cupcake. Cakes, holiday items, and even frozen desserts and soft serve are available.

If you consider yourself a cake connoisseur, be sure to check out the decadent desserts here. Located in South Windsor’s Evergreen Walk, Taste by Spellbound II is one of three locations in Connecticut (aside from Avon and West Hartford). It’s the perfect place to stop in for a mid-day pick-me-up during a busy day of shopping!

32 SHAKER RD, EAST LONGMEADOW, MA PETESSWEETS.WEBS.COM

RUSSO’S BAKERY ITALIAN PASTRY SHOP

739 ENFIELD STREET, ENFIELD, CT RUSSOSBAKERYCT.COM Who doesn’t love a traditional Italian pastry shop? Check out their selection of miniature cannolis and pastries, cookies, and cakes. They even offer hot pizza and frozen Italian dinners to go!

FLORENCE PIE BAR

17A MAIN STREET, FLORENCE, MA FLORENCEPIEBAR.COM The pie menu changes weekly at this adorable spot on Main Street. Sweet and savory flavors range from maple cream pie to pear bourbon pie, or curried beef handpies to braised beef, pickled onion, and blue cheese handpies. Order ahead for special events or stop in and grab a beverage and pie slice and enjoy the cozy atmosphere.

MAUREEN’S SWEET SHOPPE

6 CENTER SQUARE, EAST LONGMEADOW, MA MAUREENSSWEETSHOPPE.COM Tucked in the heart of the East Longmeadow rotary is this little hidden gem that has been in business for over a decade. You will find any type of chocolate that you can imagine! Stop in to grab a few chocolates for yourself or as a gift for someone else. They also deliver to anywhere in the US!

87 EVERGREEN WAY, SOUTH WINDSOR, CT TBSPELLBOUND.COM

SNELGROVE’S CHOCOLATIER & FLORIST 32 RAINBOW ROAD EAST GRANBY,CT 154 BROAD STREET WINDSOR, CT SNELGROVES.NET

Snelgrove’s is a third-generation business, offering chocolates, fresh flowers, and gift basket arrangements. It’s the perfect one-stop shop for all of your gift needs, whether you’re celebrating a special event or are looking to get out of the doghouse by showering your sweetie with a special gift.

POP’S BISCOTTI & CHOCOLATES

2341 BOSTON ROAD, WILBRAHAM, MA POPSCHOCOLATES.COM Situated in the Wilbraham Shops is Pop’s (it rhymes!), which has been a Wilbraham staple since opening in 2013. They are sure to have the perfect sweet treat to go along with your coffee or tea, or to give someone as a gift. Be sure to try one of their “Turtle Turtles” (a chocolate turtle in the shape of a turtle), one of their famous Peanut Butter Pyramids, or over 30 flavors of homemade biscotti!

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