Go Local | April 2018

April 2018 Volume 4 . Issue 5 golocalmagazines.com

board & brush thriving in tie dye urban artisan farm

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new this month APRIL 2018 . VOLUME 4 . ISSUE 5

FEATURE STORY >> 19

4 GO LOCAL APRIL 2018

THRIVING IN TIE DYE As the tepid winds of spring slowly breathe new life into our world, the promise of warmer days ignites a certain curiosity in us all. The restored light of longer days fuels wanderlust, luring our curiosities to explore the local landscape - and beyond.

6

A NOTE

8

GO ON, YOUR SAY

11

BOARD & BRUSH

From the Editor 15 Minutes of Fame

Creative Studio in Somers

new this month APRIL 2018 . VOLUME 4 . ISSUE 5

15

URBAN ARTISAN FARM

19

THRIVING

26

GO EAT

29

PICKS

30

CHOSEN LEADERSHIP

35

PICKS

37

SNAPSHOT

40

LOCAL EINSTEIN

42

FINAL COUNTDOWN

Zero Food Miles Enterprise

30

In Tie Dye

Slightly Smoky Ham & Bean Soup Winter Market Timothy Payne

Garden Art, Handmade Cloth Napkins, Feast in the East

11

Fertile Forest

BOARD & BRUSH

Put Your Thinking Caps On 7 Spring Things

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Be part of

AGAWAM • EAST LONGMEADOW • EAST WINDSOR ELLINGTON • ENFIELD • HAMPDEN • LONGMEADOW SOMERS • SUFFIELD • STAFFORD SPRINGS • WILBRAHAM Contact: Amber@TheReminder.com

Go Local!

Got a great story idea?

We’re always on the lookout for a unique local business, an outstanding person in the community, a special pet, creative craftsperson or the couple that’s been married for 50 years to feature in Go Local Magazine. So give us a shout!

GOLOCALMAGAZINES.COM 5

Even though the first day of spring was several weeks ago, our world is just now starting to shake the lingering days of winter. Each foretelling sign of warmer weather is particularly special and as each crunchy snowbank recedes, it gives way to a ripe time of year just bursting with beauty. I’ve always felt a strong connection to seasonal transitions - whatever the time of year - and I try to harness its influence. Just think of the tiny ambassadors of spring, like the delicate blossoms of a fruit tree. Tender, but tenacious, they take the chance to emerge and are the foragers of new life. Each diminutive bloom exquisitely replaces seemingly lifeless sticks and becomes a treasured emblem of the landscape. As the earth comes alive, it has me thinking about the seeds to plant in my own life. While no garden unfolds overnight, nothing is more exciting than anticipating its growth.

It’s the perfect time to reshuffle your deck and this spirit of growth and change charges the tone of our April edition. We started in Ellington, where Erica and Tim are working to cultivate a deep-rooted life. In a few short weeks they will be growing by going, and we sat down with the two to learn about their next great adventure. In Somers, we opened the doors to Board & Brush, a DIY wood sign workshop owned by Patty and Gary Hunter. Together with family and friends, their space is an incubator for bold creativity and the opportunity to example skills while working with raw materials. We also met Jack Wysocki from Wilbraham who is promoting healthy living through urban farming and hydroponic food production. In Stafford, we connected with Staff Sergeant Timothy Payne, a retired soldier, author and ambassador for disabled combat Veterans. In anticipation of his local speaking engagement next month, he shares valuable lessons learned in close combat, battlefield injuries and the process of recovery.

I have a habit of funneling rose-tinted nostalgia, where my true focus should be spent on what will be. Change is the heartbeat of this season and we’re on the cusp of total transformation - our food, landscape, mood - is all subject to scrupulous adjustment.

As the damp earth gives off scents of new life, my hope is to capture the optimism of longer days and channel new beginnings - big and small - in my own life. While I often set whirling expectations for myself - as I’m sure you do - perhaps we should just manifest the simplicities of spring and all of its wistful possibilities. What seeds do you want to plant in your own life? Whatever they are, be resilient, roll with punches and look forward with the promise of all things good. I hope you enjoy the metamorphosis of days ahead and warmly greet the season of positive change. That’s what this season - and life - is all about, a transitional journey with the promise that we can grow and renew. So be well, get dirty and grow your roots. Happy spring!

37

6 GO LOCAL APRIL 2018

EDITOR Amber Wakley

MANAGING EDITOR G. Michael Dobbs

PUBLISHER Dan Buendo

QUALITY CONTROL Carolyn Napolitan

PHOTOGRAPHY

Jacqueline Sidor . Tyler Whaley

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Carleton Whaley . Amy S. White

ADVERTISING

Amy Allen . Kim Barba . Paula Dimauro Scott Greene . Nancy Holloway . Jeanette Grenier Matt Mahaney . Lisa Nolan

CREATIVE

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

WILBRAHAM

EAST LONGMEADOW

AGAWAM

LONGMEADOW Route 190

Route 190

SUFFIELD

HAMPDEN

Route 190

SOMERS ENFIELD

EAST WINDSOR

Route 190

STAFFORD SPRINGS

ELLINGTON

A CREATION OF

amber wakley is the editor of Go Local Magazine and looks forward to the longer, warmer days ahead and the first chorus of spring peepers!

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Best song to listen to with the windows down?

Favorite breakfast food?

Who would play you in a movie?

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Dream Vacation?

Ireland

On a boat

Kauai

Italy

Tahiti

I hear Portland, Oregon, is one of the dog-friendliest cities in the U.S.

What lets you know spring is here?

Lilacs blooming

Green

March 20

Community

Birds chirping

Playing in mud!

Bigots

People that leave by saying, “mmmmmbye”

Dumb people

Children

Life itself

Cats

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Ford LTD Crown Victoria “Bessie the Big Blue Boat”

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GOLOCALMAGAZINES.COM 9

April is Diamond Month Gifford’s Ice Cream Italian Ice Frozen Yogurt OPENING FOR THE 2018 SEASON! Check our Facebook page for hours and events @ Ice Cream Depot Hours: Mon–Thurs 3-9pm Fri & Sat 12pm-10pm Sun 12pm-9pm

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! AMBER WAKLEY

 J ACQUELINE M. SIDOR, JMS ART & PHOTO

! AMY S. WHITE  JAQUELINE M. SIDOR, JMS ART & PHOTO

A

long the sleepy banks of the Scantic River, a beautifully restored historic mill has been transformed into a hands-on maker space, one that hones both artistic and utilitarian talents. Crossed with deeply rustic exposed beams and light-colored brick, Patty and Gary Hunter not only helped this unique space realize its potential, but all those who walk through the doors. This is Board & Brush (B&B), a creative do-it-yourself studio that’s becoming a hangout for locals and a destination for out-of-towners.

Patty, a Somers native who grew up just minutes down the road from her Quality Avenue business, says she has always had an affinity for design. As a graphic designer for over thirty years, she has a natural inclination for typography, signage and layout - it’s her passion. It’s with this same creative thinking that she organized her daughter-in-law’s bridal shower, and was charged with finding an “out of the box” experience for party-goers to enjoy. Wanting an unforgettable experience, she discovered Board & Brush Monroe, which would provide a new twist on the traditional paint and sip-type activities. Swapping canvas for wood, the party held for the bride-to-be wasn’t only a crowd pleaser; it was a new career opportunity.

The DIY wood sign workshop originated as a “girl’s night out” in founder Julie Selby‘s basement. What started out as one studio in Wisconsin in 2015 has now grown to more than 150 locations across the United States. To realize sucGOLOCALMAGAZINES.COM 11

cess, the franchise works with top graphic designers with a DIY passion, like Patty, from all over the country. Opened just this past January, Patty says they’ve received wonderful feedback and have been amazed by their repeat business, some returning up to four times to create new projects. Always trying to improve, Patty and Gary are dedicated to the user experience, learning what customers want and adapting this Midwest company to meet the needs of their New England clientele.

In seemingly endless combinations of sizes, sayings and shapes, rustic wood signs are one of the hottest-growing design trends. Bearing inspirational quotes, motivational sayings, salutations and personalized monograms, rustic wood signs are a unique and classic addition to any home decor. Humorous, inspiring or defining, wood sign-wanters can pay a considerable amount for already made designs, go to the local hardware store - purchase several colors of paint, lots of wood, hardware, stencils, and tools and try this project at home - or head to B&B Somers for a seamless experience and incredibly fun instructor-led workshop.

Alternative to the paint night concept, each participant selects their own project - there’s over one hundred to choose from with new additions each month. Registration is completed in advance online and attendees choose a day, time, project and customization at the time of signup. Upon arrival to B&B, the elements of each project - customized vinyl stencil, precut wood pieces, tools, paint and stain - are laid out for use.

It’s a Sunday afternoon at B&B and class participants begin shuffling into the space.

Newcomers open the door with an open mouthed “wow,” and a little trepidation as they take in the inspiring charisma of the design studio. Others, who have attended classes before, instinctually begin to unpack their totes of snacks and adult beverages - they know the routine. Outfitted in black aprons, Patty, Gary and their staff (comprised of local family and friends), 12 GO LOCAL APRIL 2018

guide class-goers to their seats, where self-selected projects are waiting.

You can feel the excitement building for what’s to come.

In the center of the table are a collection of meat tenderizers, hammers, coarse-threaded screws and implements for distressing the wood.

Using different methods and techniques, creators begin to transform new, bare wood into textured projects with rustic appeal. After sanding, stain and finish is applied - with a myriad of color options to choose from - each brings out the natural beauty of the wood as it dries. Next, customized vinyl stencils are returned to the table for application. With an extensive palette to choose from, creators begin blotting the negative space of the stencil with paint, selecting colors reflective of their style, or that of the recipient. Once the pieces are assembled, using a variety of power tools and procedures, the projects are complete.

“Our clientele is about 95% women, you can see the empowerment they get while working with tools - a lot of them have never done that before,” says Patty. “When they’re done, they are invested. They completed an entire project from start to finish, and a great feeling...and amazing to see.”

Both Gary and Patty say they can sometimes see the apprehension of workshop newcomers and that it’s incredibly fulfilling to see their confidence grow throughout the process. At B&B Somers, each personalized DIY project comes with guidance and instruction, propagating a can-do attitude of even the most doubtful participants. With dozens of examples hanging on the wall - each bearing the names of the staff’s friends and family - the studio is fun and encouraging, with genuine and experienced direction. Even though each person works on their own personalized project, the atmosphere is incredibly social, and each table laughs and chats while completing their “work.” The distinctive DIY workshop is an awesome way to celebrate birthdays, have a fun evening out with a group of friends, or a unique relationship-building outing for employees. The studio can also be reserved for private workshops, bachelorette parties, corporate events and more.

“To see the process is truly amazing,” says Patty. “I’ve done this in my own home, but to help others work on their own projects is truly amazing. Seeing the faces of people as they pull back the stencil to reveal their work is the best part about this. People are so proud and happy with what they’ve created.”

The finished products create wonderful seasonal decorations, permanent monograms, personalized gifts, housewarmings, and memorial pieces to comfort grieving. From names, dates, color preferences, each inspires creativity within people of all ages (sixteen and older, that is).

While Patty and Gary take immense pride in helping customers realize their potential, they are incredibly humbled to be a part of such a dynamic local business community. With deep roots - Somers-raised Patty comes from a family of 10 - the couple are true stewards of their town and enjoy collaborating and encouraging the growth of neighboring businesses. And much like family and friends who guide workshops at the studio, they are both authentic and encouraging who give others the ability to excel in a new skill. Board & Brush Somers is truly a place to become inspired - go ahead - you’ll be surprised at what you can create.

BOARD & BRUSH . 27 QUALITY AVE . SOMERS, CT BOARDANDBRUSH.COM/SOMERS FB.BOARDANDBRUSHSOMERSCT (860) 916-5218

GOLOCALMAGAZINES.COM 13

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N

estled in the industrial park on Albany Street in Springfield, MA, behind a bright green building labeled Gasoline Alley sits an old warehouse that holds the promise of a fresh future: Urban Artisan Farm. Although they have 2,500 square feet of garden space in Wilbraham, their main venture in Springfield is hydroponic farming: growing plants in water, rather than soil.

I met Jack Wysocki in the main building of Gasoline Alley, where customers can come in to buy fruits, vegetables, mushrooms, and more from Urban Artisan.

When I asked about Urban Artisan’s mission, Jack, one of the two owners, said, “We’re doing this for a few reasons.

The area we’re in is a food desert, first off. There are a few places four or five miles away to get food, but nowhere in the area to get anything that’s actually fresh.”

They also help by enlisting volunteers from the area, which GOLOCALMAGAZINES.COM 15

URBAN ARTISAN FARM OWNERS (L-R) TONY RENZULLI AND JACK WYSOCKI

mainly consist of disadvantaged youths or previously incarcerated persons.

“These kids,” Jack said, “they’ve all had rough spots. We’re doing what we can to grow the business, because you have to have a solid business before you can do a lot of social good. It’s pretty much just me and Tony right now, except for some of the help we get.”

Jack then walked me down behind Gasoline Alley, where the hydroponic greenhouse was actually located. It’s an old building with bright green doors on one side and some graffiti on the bricks. Matching much of the rest of the city in many ways, it seems an inhospitable location for growing food. And yet, when I stepped inside, it was like I had entered another world. Inside the warehouse, fluorescent lights hummed and shone light on the hundreds of plants growing on racks and float tables, suspended in water or embedded into fibrous mats. There were bright red and pink stalks of rainbow chard, swiss chard, field pea shoots, all kinds of herbs, several varieties of microgreens, and, of course, lettuce. With their full system, Urban Artisan Farm can regularly grow over a thousand heads of lettuce in under two months.

“The first thing out of people’s mouths when they hear hydroponic,” Jack told me, “is ‘oh, so you’re not organic.’ And no, we’re not organic, and we never will be as long as the certification for it is soil-based. However,” he said, showing me the elaborate systems of pipes and tubes feeding all of the plants, “we have more control over what’s going into the plants than anything grown 16 GO LOCAL APRIL 2018

in soil. We check the pH levels and nutrient formulas every day.”

Control over the environment is a key factor of this business, and early on presented issues for Jack and his business partner, Tony Renzulli. Jack cited heat and humidity as two of the worst struggles to overcome in opening Urban Artisan.

“The heat in here was terrible, ‘cause it’s such an old warehouse.

We had this old propane heating system that we just couldn’t control. But Tony and I did a little research, and we built this toy,” Jack said proudly, displaying the dual furnace system they had built themselves. I started to realize that that’s what made this place so special: everything in here had been thought out carefully and built by these two exactly for the needs of the space and the business. The pride of the greenhouse is their Tenzulli: the hydroponics system designed by Tony which grows 800 heads of lettuce on its own.

Tony was already hard at work when we came into the greenhouse to ask him more about the design and science behind it all.

“Hey Anthony!” Jack yelled, “These guys have some questions for you!”

Without missing a beat, Tony called out, “Seventeen, blue, Tuesday. Those are my stock answers, they’ve been right once in my life and I’m sticking to them.”

After jotting those down to use for myself later, I asked him more about the design behind the Tenzulli that Jack had extolled.

Tony said, “Well, the guys came up with the name—It had ten columns and my name’s Renzulli. And, well as you can see those

are someone else’s pots that we used—” “But Tony designed the whole piping system, the wiring, lighting, all of it, just like we did with the rest,” Jack said.

“Also, I have some ideas for a Tenzulli 2.0, which we could patent in the future.”

For all his humility, Tony has an intimate understanding of the nutrient formulas and processes that go into the hydroponics system.

“When I was working for Farmtek, we consulted Dr. Morgan— she’s a world authority in hydroponics. We told her what we were trying to do and she helped us develop a base nutrient formula for the plants. Sixteen micro and macro-nutrients, the same kind of things that the plants would normally absorb through the soil, only they don’t have to wait for bacteria and fungi to help break it down for them. We use the same formula for our vegetative plants, and then differ it depending on what each one needs. Tomatoes, for instance, start off as vegetative plants but need different nutrients once they start to flower. I like to joke that the plants are all lazy—they don’t have to work at all, it’s like they’re just sitting on the couch eating bon bons all day. Hey, do you like radishes?”

I told him, “of course,” and he showed me where they were growing microgreens. It was a dense patch of white, pink, and purple stalks with leafy green fronds poking up. I plucked a few of the pink ones, which turned out to be hong vit radishes, and took a bite.

It’s one thing to see a place like Urban Artisan, where all these plants are growing all around you in what looks like a sci-fi set up. It’s another thing to taste the food grown there. It was incredible—the hong vit radishes were almost sweet at first, then blossomed into something between spice and earthiness. And on top of it all, there was an overwhelming freshness to it that showed whatever they were doing with the nutrient formulas was working.

When I asked if, after growing their business, they’d ever move out of Gasoline Alley, Jack said no.

“We’ll never move out of here. That’s one of the things for us— where we are, you’d be surprised how many people we’re helping.

The Healthy Incentive Program really solidified, in our minds, how hard it is for people to get fresh fruits and vegetables. Even if they have EBT or SNAP benefits, a lot of times they’re forced not to buy fresh food because something else might be cheaper.

Processed foods are usually going to be cheaper than buying real, fresh, healthy food, and that’s not cool. So, through HIP, we’ve found we’re really helping people. People have thanked us for helping them to eat healthy again. This area is a food desert— meaning no access to fresh foods—but we’re closing that gap.”

From making produce available and affordable to holding farming and sustainability workshops, Urban Artisan Farm has set itself up as a business with incredible heart and integrity. They are about to celebrate their one-year-anniversary on April 18, and it’s clear that this will only be the first of many.

URBAN ARTISAN FARM . 250 ALBANY STREET . SPRINGFIELD, MA . (413) 301-7955 . URBANARTISANFARM.ORG . FACEBOOK.COM/UAF250

GOLOCALMAGAZINES.COM 17

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18 GO LOCAL SEPTEMBER 2016

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

THRIVING in tie dye ! AMBER WAKLEY

 J ACQUELINE M. SIDOR, JMS ART & PHOTO

A

s the tepid winds of spring slowly breathe new life into our world, the promise of warmer days ignites a certain curiosity in us all.

The restored light of longer days fuels wanderlust, luring our curiosities to explore the local landscape - and beyond.

Kindred spirits, Erica Shepardson and Tim Remington, tinker with the roof of their autumn-colored RV symbolic of a yesteryear decade, the two prepare for something incredibly awesome. Setting their sights on a self discovery, expanding perspective and meeting new challenges, the Connecticut couple is getting ready to hit the road for a destination unknown. While undiscovered travel isn’t particularly unique, the two leave with deeper meaning.

They meet seven years ago at a party and when Erica completed her Sports Medicine/Athletic Training degree from Keene State College in New Hampshire, the two began living together in Ellington - at least for now. While Tim diligently worked upwards in 33 GOLOCALMAGAZINES.COM 19

his company, Erica began working as a pharmaceutical rep, each make a good living with respectable careers. Somewhat weekend warriors, the two spend their off-hours enamored with music. Much of their “play” time and future plans were [and are] prioritized by concert dates, festivals and favorite artists. It’s a tradition that has broadened their experiences of music, food and adventure.

They spent years dreaming of long-term travel, but, it wasn’t necessarily in their immediate plans. However, after a series of simultaneous events, it became a calculated part of their intentions. One of the biggest hurdles was overcoming jobs, bills and insurance - all factors that were derailing their adventure. But when Erica was laid off last fall, the unexpected - and scary - departure prompted the pursuit of greater wealth in them both.

“I was struggling pretty hard with the idea of leaving my career, it was still a really good job and I really liked the people.” says Erica. I’ve never not worked. At first I was really sad - and scared - but then I felt like the universe was just telling me to go.”

Erica and Tim have found comforting synchronicities in the entire travel-prep process, like the benefit of a severance package two weeks after purchasing the RV and the confidence Tim would have a job or transfer once their adventure ended. While there’s always an excuse to why it’s never a “good time” for extended travel, the unexpected death of a dear friend changed their perspective.

“It set off this whole grieving process and we turned very introspective afterward,” says Tim. “We questioned what we were doing - was traveling really important to us? It really encouraged us to go out and learn what made us happy.”

“Our friend was someone who was very alive and to be so close to his death, it had a huge impact on us,” says Erica.

20 GO LOCAL APRIL 2018

“Us - following a dream - is the good we can get out of his death and find something out from his life. It’s not just like he died and we’re sad. It’s not easy, but you have to keep living. Having a drive like that is better than just throwing our stability away.”

Erica, a meld of a type-A personality/free spirit took some adjusting to the idea of uncharted travel. As a self-proclaimed planner, she is calculated in her decisions and such a whimsical adventure brings a bit of apprehension. Tim is a little more “go with the flow,” but still, no less reasonable to the reality of life’s expectations. They are extremely prepared in their endeavor, paying out the next six months bills and ensuring they have enough for the road.

“I think this is scary, I’m a worrier in general. I don’t think this is going to be easy - actually I think it may break me a few times,” admits Erica.

“Neither of us has really traveled much, but we’ve both worked hard to a point where we can.”

It’s been suggested the two just save up vacation time, using the sequence of days to travel. But with just 10 days a year, Tim and Erica don’t feel like they can truly experience the country the way they envision.

With their due diligence, they’ll be able to seize an opportunity most accomplish in their retirement - if they’re lucky. With their departed friend in the back of their minds - and hearts - they are ready to go now.

“In high school and college they teach us what it takes to be a good worker and how to pay off your student loans,” says Erica. “They don’t tell you what’s going to make you happy.”

GOLOCALMAGAZINES.COM 21 35

thrivingintiedye.com

22 36 GO LOCAL APRIL 2018 2017

The two have a goal of owning their own business someday and working independently. Although uncertain what that enterprise will be, learning more about themselves will help bring clarity. In the meantime, Erica has started a blog, charting their travels, their experiences with music and life in general. As that “worrier,” it was at first uncomfortable to put her thoughts on the “page” for others to consume. It was nothing short of nerve wracking. The experience and feedback has been unexpectedly positive, and starting to be a source of revenue, a welcomed benefit in their quest for professional freedom. As an e-commerce affiliate, Erica has started to monetize her website by earning advertising fees from qualified purchases and products advertised through her blog. For example, her “festival essentials” post will promote a selection of specific items relative to a weekend of music, camping and socializing. Shared amongst her growing network, linking tools provide subscribers the ability to “click-through” and purchase advertised products. Anytime someone follows the link and purchases something within a certain time span, Erica receives a percentage of the sale.

“I think my generation has a different view of the American Dream,” says Erica.

“Some people take offense to what we’re doing, like we’re trying to diminish what they do for a living,” says Tim. “It’s hard to explain, but there’s no right or wrong way to go through life. You just have to be open to what comes.”

The world is a stark contrast to what it was fifty years ago - even thirty. Going to college, being smart and working hard doesn’t always warrant idealized notions of success. Prosperity looks very much different and working in the standard physical world is no longer relevant - if you’re willing to embrace new ideologies - like the advancements of technology.

So, the two are working on their 1985 Toyota Coachman, replacing necessary elements to realize their nomadic freedom. Set to depart in early May, Erica and Tim plan to travel “closer to home” through New England and the East Coast to work out potential kinks with their vintage camper. With their dog, Suzy, they look forward to traveling west in search of uncharted territory.

In her blog, Erica writes, “It may be a long shot, but we hope to find a path that brings us abundant joy every day. And if that path cannot be found, hopefully moving so far out of our comfort zone will inspire a path that we can forge ourselves.”

“Your home should tell the story of who you are.”

— Jacqueline Varni, Pecoy Designer

At

We are going to work to understand your needs.

We will respect your finances and your time.

We promise integrity, quality, craftsmanship, and a positive experience.

Let your story be told!

www.pecoy.com | 215 Baldwin St. | West Springfield, MA | (413) 781-7008 GOLOCALMAGAZINES.COM 23

A & D PORTABLE RENTALS

INTERVIEW WITH AUSTIN & DONALD BESSETTE

What distinguishes you from other businesses in your category?

We are a local family owned and operated company that wants to give every one of our customers the best portable restroom experience every time they use us. Our focus is on keeping the portables clean and sanitary upon delivery and weekly service.

Our delivery and service schedule is prompt and on time; even on the weekends.

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

People are surprised by the fact that we are father and son that work in the welding/mechanical trades for a living. We get one question asked of us frequently; what made you get into doing porta potties? It’s a basic human need that will not die anytime soon and we have the equipment and knowledge to get into the business. We decided to be partners and started our business in May of 2017 and made all of our customers very happy. Every customer was surprised with how clean our units were and loved that our main unit color was red.

Why should people do business with you?

We wanted to change the way people looked at porta potties.

Everyone wants bottom dollar because of past experiences with unsanitary units. We are competitively priced and our units are hands down the cleanest you will ever have at any event. We will deliver on weekends, where some other businesses won’t.

We take pride in what we do and our main focus is making all of our customers happy; creating a friendly customer base. A&D offers weekend, weekly, monthly and yearly rentals; giving you plenty of options for your next event.

contact

Stafford Springs, CT • (860) 684-5957 • austinportablerental@gmail.com donportablerental@gmail.com

A&D Portable Rentals LLC 860-684-5957

Stafford Springs, CT Look For The RED Our main unit color is red so you know it’s us!

As .we continue to grow, we will be providing a variety of colors for our customers.

24 GO LOCAL APRIL 2018

CT. Lic. No. 1235971

■ ■ ■ ■

Our units are the cleanest around We provide quality service Family owned and operated Give us a call to get a quote on your next rental

413•566•8015 PIZZERIA & LOUNGE

Download the Gio’s App for updated entertainment and promotions!

Like Us & Follow Us on Facebook!

Order Online with the Gio’s App! FREE Delivery to Hampden, Wilbraham, East Longmeadow, Sixteen Acres, East Forest Park and parts of Longmeadow, Enfield & Somers, CT! Grinders • Giant Calzones • Seafood • Salads • Wings & More

9 Allen St. • Hampden Mini Mall • Hampden, MA (413) 566-8015

Open 7 Days | www.giospizzeria.com

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go eat

! RECIPE SUBMITTED BY AMY S. WHITE

Slightly Smoky Ham and Bean Soup This recipe has a lot of delightful qualities. The best part is that this is a slow cooker recipe, that almost all of the work is done for you by that magical little machine, while you are at work, or wherever it is you go during the day. That is made even more wonderful by the aroma that greets you when you come back from wherever you were. Then there’s the fact that you are probably tired from wherever you had been, and now dinner is already done. Oh, the fabulousness! Not to mention that it is a great way to use the ham (and ham bone) you may have left over from Easter. If you prefer it less smoky, leave out the liquid smoke.

2 tablespoons olive oil 1 yellow onion chopped 1 red onion chopped 4 large cloves garlic peeled and minced 6 cups chicken stock 1 leftover ham bone or ham hock 2 cups cubed cooked ham 28 ounces diced tomatoes, undrained 1 tablespoon dried parsley 4 sprigs fresh thyme 4 bay leaves 5 dashes liquid smoke Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste 1, 15-ounce can canellini beans drained and rinsed 1, 15-ounce can small white beans drained and rinsed 26 GO LOCAL APRIL 2018

Heat olive oil in skillet over medium heat. Add onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until soft and fragrant, about 10 minutes. Add garlic and cook 1 minute. Place onion and garlic mixture, stock, ham bone, ham, tomatoes, parsley, thyme, bay leaves, liquid smoke, salt and pepper in slow cooker. Cook on low for 10 hours or on high for 6 hours. Stir in beans, and cook for about 15 additional minutes, or until heated through.

Amy S. White is a food blogger and writer whose original recipes are influenced by her travels.

She is a regular contributing writer for Go Local Magazine and Connecticut Food and Farm Magazine. She won a Connecticut Agricultural Journalism Award in 2016. She lives, teaches, cooks, eats and writes in eastern Connecticut.

149 NORTH ROAD, RTE 140, EAST WINDSOR, CT TEL. (860) 623-2100 or (888) 457-7778

ESTATE AUCTION EVERY THURSDAY

Goodbye Winter, Hello Spring!

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860.749.7917 GOLOCALMAGAZINES.COM 27

Enjoy A Fresh Farm Share!

It’s time to sign-up for the 2018 CSA Season!

We grow a wide variety of fresh vegetables, fruit and herbs throughout the season (normally 20 weeks).

Weekly pickups are right at the farm.

46 Bailey Road, Enfield, CT

farmerb@easypickinsorchard.com

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Catering Available Order Your Party Platters Now! Take-out 525-2735 Dining Room 525-1829 Tues-Sat 11am-9pm Sun 3pm-8:30pm

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Spring into Quilting!

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We also carry dependable PFAFF sewing machines!

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28 GO LOCAL SEPTEMBER 2016

MiracleMethod.com

go local picks

COOL STUFF JUST OUTSIDE YOUR DOOR

LAST WINTER MARKET FARMERS' MARKET AT FOREST PARK • OLD MONKEY HOUSE FOREST PARK • SPRINGFIELD, MA • FARMERSMARKETATFORESTPARK.COM

The Farmers' Market at Forest Park has become a vibrant resource for locally sourced produce, goods and agriculture commodities - all year long! Their mission is committed to promoting healthful eating and sustainable agriculture in Massachusetts by providing fresh agricultural products from small farms to urban customers thereby building community and preserving farmland.

Don't miss the last winter market on April 14 from 10AM2PM in the Old Monkey House. From fresh baked bread to herbs, dairy, meat, eggs, maple and honey products, prepared foods and the finest produce and products from regional farms, this market is abundant with local picks.

This fully provisioned market offers the opportunity to satisfy a complete shopping list while experiencing a warm, welcoming community. A wonderful fixture, if you're unable to make the April market, look forward to the return of this neighborhood gem next month, when the outside market resumes on May 1, rain or shine, from 12:30 PM - 6:00 PM.

GOLOCALMAGAZINES.COM 29

! CARLETON WHALEY

 CONTRIBUTED PHOTOS FROM TIMOTHY PAYNE

“Y

ou know, I got this van about two years ago, brand new. Now it has 100,000 miles on it.”

As surprising as that sounds, it’s not that strange coming from Staff Sergeant Timothy Payne, a self-styled ambassador for disabled combat veterans. When I called him, he was in a garage in California, getting his van tested before getting back to traveling around the country on his lecture tour. Seeing him smile in photos from around the country, giving his signature thumbs-up to foreign dignitaries, friends, politicians, and presidents, it’s almost easy to see Tim as simply another inspirational speaker. One look at his missing legs and wounded arms, however, dismisses that thought.

Cathy Lichanec, a Stafford resident who met Tim last year, has spearheaded a movement to bring him to Stafford to give a talk about his experiences in the military, as well as his remarkable road to recovery. Tim does

30 GO LOCAL APRIL 2018

many talks such as this in his work as a disabled veteran ambassador and speaks to both former servicemen and lifetime civilians about his journey.

“I’ve never met anyone like Tim,” Cathy said. “There’s just this peace you get from being around him. I try to talk to all the servicemen I see—just say thank you if I can. And when I saw Tim up close I could tell he had lost his legs almost up to the groin. He couldn’t have even got fitted for prosthetics, there was nothing that could go on him. And the first thing he said to me—he just smiled and said ‘I got blown up.’”

This is characteristic of SSgt Tim Payne: friendly and tothe-point. After speaking with so many people about his story, he isn’t shy about letting strangers in.

“After about four months in South Afghanistan, we became combat ineffective, which means that we couldn’t go out to patrol anymore…we were just sitting in our base with the enemy attacking us. During one attack I was sitting on the wall, aggravated that we were losing people—I just really wanted to hurt someone. I saw an insurgent, and instead of calling my men to engage the enemy, I thought this one’s mine. I shot him, killed him. I felt a presence come at me as soon as it happened.”

The next day, Tim was sent to clear out the area around the fallen enemy soldier.

“As soon as I was out there, I felt that presence again. I had this gut-wrenching feeling suddenly, and when I looked at the ground—boom.”

Tim had stepped on an Improvised Explosive Device, or IED, and the resulting explosion left him critically injured.

He was placed under medical coma for two weeks, during which he flatlined seven different times. By the end of it, the doctors couldn’t save his legs, and he had lost the use of much of his left hand.

“It was hard accepting all the things that had happened to me,” Tim says. As difficult and painful as the injuries were, Tim’s road to recovery was far from over. One of the many things that he tells veterans about is that, as he struggled to recover, he also struggled with an addiction to prescription medicine, as well as suicidal thoughts.

Cathy Lichanec, an avid supporter of veterans, was well aware of this side of recovery. Several of her family members are veterans, and as she heard Tim’s story, she couldn’t help but think of them and all the other veterans she had met, or even heard about.

“For a 36-year-old guy who’s been through what he has

GOLOCALMAGAZINES.COM 31

been through is amazing to me,” she said. “Most guys who have PTSD and other problems don’t come out of it like he did.”

One of Tim’s primary motivators early on was adaptive sports, especially swimming. He has continued to push himself to the limits by competing in Marathons Across America with the Achilles Freedom Team, competing in the Warrior Game Trials in discus, and of course, he continues to swim. In a 3.5 mile swim race in St. Thomas, Tim placed first.

When talking about his recovery, Tim said, “The doctors told me if I really wanted to heal, that it was a process of healing mind, body, and spirit. The first year I worked on my bodily injuries. The second year I worked through my mental issues, and I thought that I was healed…”

Two years after his injuries, Tim suffered another loss—that of his brother-in-law.

“When he died, I started having survivor’s guilt. You know, why did he die instead of me? Instantly, I started thinking— hang on a second, I fought through suicide a few months ago. I fought through medication addiction a year ago. I had all those out-of-body experiences, and I don’t know what they mean.”

Speaking to Tim now, it’s clear that his faith is important to him, and its discovery was a driving force for his recovery. After all, his hardships didn’t end after the war, or after his injuries.

He had an illustrious career serving in many different positions in the military, even being part of the team that rescued Captain Phillips from pirates in Somalia, but life, as it does, goes on. After this latest tragedy, Tim started to look deeper into faith.

“When my brother-in-law died, that’s when the spiritual side of my healing started to take place. The mind, body, spirit thing finally came full circle. I was really depressed and angry that I survived, but God renewed my heart. Gave me something to fight for.”

This is one of the factors that he talks to veterans and civilians about in his travels, and it is one of the reasons he will be coming to Stafford Springs on May 12, and speaking at the Methodist Church (8 Church Street). The road to understanding and dealing with injuries, both physical and mental, is a long one, and SSgt Tim Payne knows that better than anyone.

Throughout all of it, however, he has kept his charm, positivity, and healthy sense of awe for life. One might think that after meeting Presidents Trump, Obama, Bush, and Carter, as well as Prince Harry, that nothing would seem surprising to him now.

On the contrary, Tim says that while traveling and writing two books (Chosen & The Squad-Leader’s Bargain), making friends along the way has been the best part of it all.

“It’s just been the most amazing, spiritual adventure,” he said, laughing, excited to get in his van and hit the road once more.

CHOSENLEADERSHIP.COM 32 GO LOCAL APRIL 2018

WARRIOR GAME TRIALS >>

<< 1ST PLACE IN BEACH TO BEACH SWIM TRAVELING 3.5 MILES ACROSS ST. THOMAS, VIRGIN ISLANDS.

<< TALKING TO PRINCE HARRY AND GIVING A TESTIMONY “THE SQUAD LEADERS BARGAIN”LEADERS

>> WITH THE ACHILLES FREEDOM TEAM AT THE CHICAGO MARATHON

<< COMPLETED THE 2016 INVICTUS GAMES WITH FAMILY AND COLLEAGUES

SUDS (SOLDIERS UNDERGOING DISABLED SCUBA DIVING)

RIDING IN MARATHONS ACROSS AMERICA WITH THE ACHILLES FREEDOM TEAM.

Hydraulic Cylinder Service

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Collision Repair

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9 MOODY ROAD - UNIT 1, ENFIELD, CT

Very Limited Time Offer - While Supplies Last!

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34 GO LOCAL SEPTEMBER 2016

go local picks

COOL STUFF JUST OUTSIDE YOUR DOOR

CUSTOM GARDEN & HOME ART AMERICAN STEEL EXPRESSIONS • STAFFORD, CT 860-559-7081 • ASEFLAMECUT@SBCGLOBAL.NET

Welder by trade for thirty years, Jim Donor is spending his “retirement” creating unique and custom creations that make the perfect addition to any home space. Inspired by his wife, Donna, he shifted gears from work in the aerospace/manufacturing industry and recently began trying his hand at the artistic side of CNC plasma cutting. Enjoying both the artistic process and appreciation of his customers, Jim creates steel silhouette style pieces, each finished in a black satin powder coat that gives a nice smooth feel with that iron look. He can create small sign work, benches, fire rings, garden gates, hand railings, ornamental flowers, animals, wood creatures and custom designs. Additionally, he can complete all types of welding repairs, torch cutting services, custom fabrication, and more.

HANDMADE CLOTH NAPKINS GIG AND LALA GIGIANDLALA.ETSY.COM • FACEBOOK.COM/GIGIANDLALA

Gigi & Lala creates modern and fun handmade items for anyone in search of unique or custom gifts. Bright, fun and functional, the Enfield-based business is always working to bring brand-new crafty goods - and right now they’re thinking spring! These napkins, which are sold in a set of four, pretty up everyday dining tables while conserving use of paper goods. Each napkin measures approximately 14.5” square and is double sided with a coordinating pattern on the reverse. 100% pre-washed cotton. The Gigi & Lala growing product line also includes blankets, clothing, fabric pouches, coffee cozies, home accessories and belts. Visit the local maker at the Hive Creative Co-op Trunk & Brunch on May 6 from 11 AM - 3 PM (598 Main Street in Somers).

2018 FEAST IN THE EAST EAST OF THE RIVER FIVE TOWN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ERC5.COM • (413)224-2444 • FACEBOOK.COM/ERC5CHAMBER

Join the East of the River Five Town Chamber of Commerce on April 26, 2018 from 5:00 PM - 8:30 PM and sample some of our area’s top chefs and their signature dishes. Participants will sample and vote to name our area’s winner awarded with the prestigious Feast in the East trophy. Proceeds help benefit the ERC5 Scholarship Fund, which has awarded over $140,000 in scholarships to local high school students in their five-town footprint. The sell-out networking event is hosted by GreatHorse (128 Wilbraham Road) in Hampden, Massachusetts, a secluded haven overlooking majestic views of the entire Connecticut River Valley. Ticket prices vary, depending on membership and time of purchase.

GOLOCALMAGAZINES.COM 35

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

CT Licensed Arborist #62445 | MA Certified Arborist #1676

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Come for your Bra fitting, and leave feeling Spring-y!

Let The Bra Ladies put Health, Comfort and Beauty back in your life!

We offer custom sizes that offer comfort and style!

High-end shapewear bras, lingerie and consignment bags & shoes Curvy Kate • Enell Sports Bra Hanky Panky • Conterelle • CosaBella Hollywood Tape • Curvy Couture

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Schedule your appointment online or by phone.

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MENTION THIS AND AND GET 5% OFF YOUR PURCHASE! 36 GO LOCAL SEPTEMBER 2016

Service That Never Misfires 4 Prospect Hill Road East Windsor, CT

860-623-0140 Fax: 860-758-4493

ï&#x2020;&#x203A; JACQUELINE M. SIDOR, JMS ART & PHOTO

FERTILE FOREST

As the lush canvas of spring settles into our surroundings, our monochromatic landscape is exchanged for vibrant hues.

Although unusual and quirky, these fleshy fungi grow rapidly and are a sign of good fortune. Cultivate their somewhat enchanted and unexpected extravagance. Pique your own curiosities and grow with the season- even if what you cultivate is a little wild and weird.

GOLOCALMAGAZINES.COM 37

Live Music Fri. & Sat. Nights in The Lounge – Visit Our Website

Sunday Night

Wine & Dine Includes Salad, Choice of 3 Entreés and 2 Glasses of House Wine or Beer Per Person Excludes Holidays

Shrub Trimming, Removal & Transplanting Hydroseeding • Sod • Overseeding Mulch Installation & Bed Edging Walkways & Patios

Eric Weichselbaumer, Owner

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Tuesday thru Sunday 11:30 am - 2:30 pm

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MONDAY NIGHTS Half Price Pizza in our Lounge

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Contact Lori at lacucinagreenhouse@gmail.com 1 Allen St., Hampden, MA (413) 566-8324 Visit our website: lacucinahampden.com

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local einstein

TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE - NO GOOGLING!

“O CAPTAIN! MY CAPTAIN!” WAS WRITTEN IN 1865 ABOUT THE DEATH OF ABRAHAM LINCOLN BY WHICH POET?

WHICH COUNTRY IS THE TOP PRODUCER OF BLUEBERRIES?

[A] Henry Wadsworth Longfellow [B] Henry David Thoreau [C] Walt Whitman [D] Robert Frost

[A] Canada [B] United States [C] Poland [D] Japan

WHICH STATE HAS THE MOST FOREST COVER AT 89%?

WHICH DISNEY PRINCESS IS THIS? [A] Ariel [B] Anna [C] Jasmine [D] Elena

5

7

[A] Massachusetts [B] West Virginia [C] Vermont [D] Maine

THE PEACE CORPS WAS FOUNDED BY JOHN F. KENNEDY, SARGENT SHRIVER & HARRIS WOFFORD IN WHAT YEAR?

WHICH PLANET IS THE ONLY ONE THAT SPINS ON ITS SIDE WITH ONE OF ITS POLES OFTEN FACING THE SUN? [A] Venus [B] Uranus [C] Jupiter [D] Mercury

CYNOPHOBIA IS THE FEAR OF WHAT KIND OF ANIMAL?

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

8

WITH A TOTAL OF 16, WHICH MLB PITCHER STARTED THE MOST OPENING DAY GAMES IN HISTORY?

[A] Cats [B] Mice [C] Birds [D] Dogs

WHAT IS ANOTHER NAME FOR A CORNFLOWER? [A] Bachelor’s Button [B] Rudbeckia [C] Lantana [D] Cuckoo Flower

40 GO LOCAL APRIL 2018

1957 1969 1961 1963

[A] Tom Seaver [B] Roger Clemens [C] Nolan Ryan [D] Randy Johnson

# CORRECT

IQ

RANK

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

160 110 50 3

Prodigy Egghead Meh Simpleton

ANSWERS:

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

3

A NEW COLOR FOR

Spring!

50% OFF HAIR CUTS WITH ANY COLOR SERVICE With this ad.

Offer expires 4/30/18

20% OFF HAIR PRODUCTS WITH A HAIR CUT

ROCKY MOUNTAIN WOOD CO., INC.

With this ad.

Offer expires 4/30/18

2666 Boston Road • Wilbraham, MA 01095

MULCH • TOPSOIL • COMPOST • FIREWOOD Mon.-Fri. 7am-5pm • Sat. 7am-12noon BEST OF North Central CT Reader’s Poll S A L O N 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017 860.749.3200 | 95 South Road Somers, CT | CuttingLooseSomers.com

Pizza • Grinders Appetizers Wings Calzones Salads • Wraps Sandwiches Hamburgers Omelets • Desserts

00 OFF 4 Order of $15 or More $

413-596-2348 www.rockymountainwood.com

Family Ford Welcomes John Tranghese – Sales & Leasing Consultant to our Sales Team. John is a longtime resident of East Longmeadow and invites his friends, neighbors and anyone from the local area to stop in to visit our showroom.

“If you want to make car buying easy, come see John Tranghese”

Pick-up only. Cannot be combined with other offers. Expires 4/30/18.

112 Pearl St. • Enfield, CT • 860.741.3679 • 860.741.3670 www.enfieldpizza.com

All Homemade with The Freshest Ingredients!

Rt. 190 • Enfield, CT • 860.745.1111 jtranghese@familyfordinc.com • familyfordinc.com

AGAWAM • EAST LONGMEADOW • EAST WINDSOR ELLINGTON • ENFIELD • HAMPDEN • LONGMEADOW SOMERS • SUFFIELD • STAFFORD SPRINGS • WILBRAHAM

Go Local Got a great story idea?

GOLOCALMAGAZINES.COM 41

The Final Countdown

7 Spring Things It’s been a long winter, but the highly anticipated warming days of spring have arrived! As the first blossoms begin to unfold, so does the opportunity to embrace the outdoors,

learn something new and just have fun! To get you moving there we gathered up a collection of happenings to help you take advantage of everything spring has to offer.

SPRING FLING

TROLLEY MUSEUM • 58 NORTH ROAD E. WINDSOR, CT • CT-TROLLEY.ORG Sample wine and beer from local wineries and breweries while enjoying all the museum has to offer! Just Jeannie and New Earth will be performing. Additionally, take as many trolley rides as you would like operated by period dressed motormen!

Sat., May 19, 10am-3pm.

EARTH DAY FAIR

ENFIELD TOWN GREEN • 820 ENFIELD ST. CTCOLABS.COM • FB.CTCOLABS Come visit us on the Enfield Town Green for a vendor craft fair, food, workshops/demonstrations, live music, kids crafts, and more! Learn facts about composting, the importance of bees, recycling, and take part in a mural made of plastic bottle caps. Saturday, April 21 from 10am-5pm.

SPRING RIVER CLEANUP

WESTFIELD RIVER WATERSHED ASSOCIATION WESTFIELDRIVER.ORG • (413) 374-1921 Our watersheds are CRITICAL resources that desperately need our help nowadays. WRWA will once again sponsor a spring river cleanup in both Agawam and Westfield. Supplies will be provided. Please mark your calendars for Sat., April 21st, 9am-1pm. Wear clothes that you don’t mind getting grungy and wet!

42 GO LOCAL APRIL 2018

WILDFLOWERS @ LAUGHING BROOK

LAUGHING BROOK WILDLIFE SANCTUARY 793 MAIN ST. • HAMPDEN, MA • MASSAUDUBON.ORG Enjoy an early spring walk at Laughing Brook looking for early or “vernal” wildflowers. Walk through both field and forest with hopes to see fringed polygala, wild oats, red trillium, and wild leeks; wear long pants and closed-toe shoes, and bring insect repellent for better tick prevention. Members: $6; Non-members: $8, register online. Wed., May 9 at 9am-12pm.

VINTAGE BASEBALL

E. WINDSOR HIGH SCHOOL • EW250.COM 76 S. MAIN STREET • EAST WINDSOR, CT Experience the rules and customs from an earlier period in the sport’s history! The Wethersfield Red Onions will be dressed in vintage uniforms and playing by 1864 rules. Hosted by East Windsor 250 Anniversary Celebration on Saturday, May 5.

CHEMICAL-FREE HOME

STAFFORD LIBRARY • 10 LEVINTHAL RUN STAFFORD, CT • STAFFORDLIBRARY.ORG Feeling overwhelmed by the potential toxins in your home but not sure where to start? Come to this free class to learn about the myriad of ways oils can be used to save money and replace the chemicals you use to keep your home clean. Thursday, April 26 from 7:00-8:30pm.

SUNSET/MOONLIGHT AT SKYLINE

HOSTED BY NORTHERN CONNECTICUT LAND TRUST SOMERS, CT • NORTHERNCTLANDTRUST.ORG Sat., April 28 from 7-9pm. Hike around the Trust’s 65-acre Skyline Scenic Area on Stafford Rd., near Somers/Stafford line. Enjoy the sunset and beautiful view across the valley towards Springfield from atop the mountain. Meet at the rear of the Somers Town Hall (600 Main St.) and then carpool to site. Visit website for more info.

EAST LONGMEADOW OFFICE SPACE FOR LEASE 280 North Main St. (Rt 83) 1st Floor FREE PARKING for Your Employees & Customers.

8 Individual PRIVATE Offices Can be rented Separately OR Combined.

Open Space + Conference Rooms also Available.

2 Offices with Sinks for Estheticians, Doctors, Massage Therapists.

1 Office Suite with 4 Private Offices + Kitchen + Open Work Space.

Private Room with Shower & Sink available for $450/month.

Private Offices starting at $550/month.

Office Suite available for $3,125/month.

ALL RENTS ARE ALL-INCLUSIVE WITH ALL UTILITIES & MAINTENANCE FEES INCLUDED. Come Reserve YOUR New Office Today!

Call Chris Buendo

413-575-9266 GOLOCALMAGAZINES.COM 43

44 GO LOCAL SEPTEMBER 2016