GO LOCAL DECEMBER 2019

December 2019 Volume 6 . Issue 1 golocalmagazines.com

fun for all ages:

Santa’s trains Table & Vine Entertaining majestic theater

Check it out:

Somersvillage gifts & baskets GOLOCALMAGAZINES.COM 1

2 GO LOCAL DECEMBER 2019

new this month DECEMBER 2019 . VOLUME 6 . ISSUE 1

27

SANTA’S TRAINS AT LOOK PARK The trains will be rolling once again beginning December 13 in Look Park in Northampton, where Santa’s Trains and the jolly ol’ elf himself and Mrs. Claus have set up shop for another holiday season inside the cozy and festively decorated Garden House turned Victorian train station.

6

A NOTE

8

GO ON, YOUR SAY

13

From The Editor 15 Minutes Of Fame

SOMERSVILLAGE

Gifts and Gourmet Baskets

EVENTS 20 LOCAL December Happenings

GOLOCALMAGAZINES.COM 3

DECEMBER 2019 . VOLUME 6 . ISSUE 1

23

GO LOCAL PICKS

27

Santa’s trains at look park

29

GO Eat

33

Table & vine

41

majestic Theater

46

Local Einstein

47

Today I Matter

51

FINAL COUNTDOWN

13

Cool Stuff Just Outside Your Door An Annual Event for Train Lovers of All Ages!

Holiday Chocolate Bark Holiday Party Planning Advice from the Experts Treat yourself to Some Royal Holiday Entertainment Put Your Thinking Caps On Family’s Fight Against Addiction

7 Places to Host a Holiday Event

41

33 This Holiday Season give the gift memories are made of!

A Gift Certificate from Old Fashioned New England Hospitality At Its Best

Fireplace Feasts November thru April Christmas Memories December 7, 8, 14, 15 & 21 A traditional New England Turkey Dinner complete with dessert, followed by a play based on Dylan Thomas’ “A Child’s Christmas in Wales” performing over 20 Christmas Carols.

Reserve NOW for New Year’s Eve Tuesday, December 31 Special Fireplace Feast, Champagne Toast and DJ, and dancing in the Chestnut Room after dinner to ring in the New Year – OR Just enjoy a great meal in our dining room and join the party afterward.

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Route 9 – 260 West Main Street, West Brookfield, MA • 508-867-2345 4 GO LOCAL DECEMBER 2019

GOLOCALMAGAZINES.COM 5

a note

FROM THE MANAGING EDITOR . G. MICHAEL DOBBS

Happy holidays! One story in this month’s Go Local jumped right out at me – our look at Table & Vine.

I recently visited the West Springfield location and was, as always, amazed at the depth of their selections of beer, wine and spirits as well as food items including cheeses.

Even though I knew what was on my list on my last trip, I took the time simply to look around, as I always do.

When I was a boy and beardless youth – well, a little older – it was common to walk into a bar and simply say, “Please, give me a beer.” The bartender would go over to one or two taphandles and pull a beer.

There was little variety offered and the idea was largely, a beer was just a beer. As a bartender who worked in the 1980s I can attest that happening every shift. Sometimes people would specify Budweiser or Miller or Coors, but not always.

Michelob was considered a special kind of beer, designed for the more sophisticated customer.

I have to add that many people who ordered spirits also did something similar. I’d have people walk in and say to me, “Scotch!” or “Bourbon!” without any other orders. I’d reach down to the “well” bottles – off-brand, generic spirits and give them exactly what they requested.

My favorite off-brand was “Mohawk Scotch.” The bottle sported an illustration of a Plains Native American wearing an eagle-feathered headpiece. The imagery was all wrong and the Scotch was simply awful.

Oh, have times changed! Today many people are much more in tune with the many choices they have in beer and spirits. Increasingly they know what they like and know what they want.

Not having been a bartender in 30 years I can’t say whether Mohawk Scotch is still around, but I hope not!

Today bars and restaurants pride themselves on the number of beers they have on tap and stores such as Table & Vine clearly work very hard to stock a dizzying assortment.

The neat thing about the store is the amount of space dedicated to New England craft brews.

The craft brew movement has been about more than just beer. It’s about artistry and economic development. Craft beer has created many jobs.

The fact that Table & Vine supports the regional craft beer scene is evidence of the company’s commitment to assisting the local food and drink industry.

If Table & Vine offers homegrown beer and wines, then the Majestic Theater in West Springfield offers home-grown but nationally recognized local entertainment.

Founder Danny Eaton and his staff have done something truly impressive: they have succeeded in offering professional theater for decades. The entertainment industry is a difficult one in which to thrive and the Majestic has done so by presenting challenging dramas as well as fun musicals.

As the story in this edition shows, the Majestic productions are as professional as any larger theater company one might cite.

It’s an entertainment resource of which our region should be proud.

This December treat yourself to a show at the Majestic.

On behalf of all of us at Go Local, have a great holiday – whichever one you celebrate!

6 GO LOCAL DECEMBER 2019

- G. Michael Dobbs, Managing Editor

MANAGING EDITOR G. Michael Dobbs

CREATIVE

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

DESIGN Michelle Johnson, Manager

ADVERTISING

Barb Perry, Manager . Amy Allen . Kim Barba Lisa Nolan . Paula Dimauro . Scott Greene Nancy Holloway . Jeanette Grenier . Matt Mahaney Greg Pudlo . Victoria Owen Carolyn Napolitan, Sales Assistant



THE GO LOCAL COMMUNITY

A CREATION OF

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

GOLOCALMAGAZINES.COM Send local story ideas to: Michelle Johnson: mjohnson@repub.com

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your say

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CHENOA

SHARON

Retired Teacher

Regional Sales Manager

Communications Manager

English Teacher

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“Pounder”

Never had one….

Karlita

Bee

Nick

Shar-Bear

One, English

One

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One (I’m boring)

One

One

Penny Loafers

Bell Bottom Jeans

Bellbottoms!

1920s flapper dresses

Suspenders

Dressing up to go out to dinner

I try to stay active, Run, Walk, Hike, but that looks a Camping, What do you Kick Boxing, Yoga, bit different these do to keep fit? hiking, enjoying Bicycling, days keeping an the outdoors Kayaking, etc…. infant busy.

I hike with my dogs

Dance in the kitchen with my fiancée

Walk

What’s the most unusual thing you’ve ever eaten?

What’s your nickname?

How many languages do you speak?

Is there anything you wished would come back into fashion?

Caviar

What’s your favorite thing Family, friends, about the holiday parties! holiday season?

On a scale of 1-10 how funny would you say you are?

My favorite way to relax is…

Strong 8, maybe 8.5

Enjoying a campfire with friends

8 GO LOCAL DECEMBER 2019

KARLA

Alligator

Rambutan!

It’s a funny looking fruit.

Bear meat (0/10 would not recommend)

Octopus

Big E hamburger on a donut

Everything!

Especially family get togethers

Family time, traditions and the food!

So. much. food.

Lights on Christmas trees

Family time

Definitely 9.68

Maybe somewhere between 5-7. Not sure!

1.5

5

1

Depends!

Sometimes it’s a quiet day at home or a quick outing to a restaurant or brewery.

reading, writing, and playing piano

Hanging out on the couch

vegging with a home improvement magazine

Spa Days and Audiobooks

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Somersvillage Gifts & Gourmet Baskets

S

mall quaint gift shops offer a welcome alternative to big box stores when shopping for that “little something special” for loved ones, friends, or even yourself!

Somersvillage Gifts & Gourmet Baskets on Route 190 in Somersville, CT offers a wide variety of items to choose from, including cards, wine glasses, soaps, lotions, candles, and a baby and children’s section perfect for birthdays or baby showers.

Right now the shop is brimming with seasonal decorations for the home and garden, and there is a book rack that cooks, sports fans, and those looking for a little inspiration will find the perfect read.

“Santa’s elves are scurrying every day to put out Christmas and winter

items. They will be adding new things throughout the month for those who want to make a return visit,” said Mary Lou Romano, who owns the shop with her husband, Fred Romano.

“Customers will find ornaments, wreaths, silk arrangements, lighted snow globes and so much more.

Among the many gift items for sale include scarves and hats, texting gloves, socks, beautiful handbags and totes, and sparkling `earrings from New England artisans. We also have a line of Innis perfumes imported from Ireland that is a favorite with customers,” she added.

The couple opened their shop in 2005 after Fred retired as a sales rep for Veterinary Vaccines.

“I was on the road a lot and it was

time for a change,” he said.

Retail wasn’t entirely new to the Romanos, whose daughter owned a frame shop. “I helped my daughter as a consultant. I was a sounding board for different ideas to enhance her business. We dabbled in her store selling little gifts and some jewelry.

So, when the space next to her shop became vacant, we decided to give it a go with our own gift shop,” he said.

Selling gift baskets – a large portion of their business throughout the year – was a “natural thing” for them.

“I learned how to make them as early as the age of 16 when I worked in the produce department at the old Food Mart in Enfield. Baskets are great for people looking for a special way to GOLOCALMAGAZINES.COM 13

present gifts,” said Fred.

“Christmas is our biggest time for gift basket sales, but we do sell them year-round.

Most are custom made, but especially during Christmas we do have what you call ‘grab and go’ baskets for the hurried shopper,” he added.

A typical “grab and go” basket might include items such as candy, cookies, dips and crackers and/or a decorative item at various prices.

Many of the food items included in the baskets come from the shop’s Gourmet Pantry which is stocked with a wide selection of relishes, jams, jellies, preserves, sauces, as well as beer bread, muffin and scone mixes, dipping oils and a wide variety of dips. Foodies will also find imported Italian sauces, pastas and antipasto items to make an authentic gourmet Italian meal at home.

“Some of these products are sold under our own shop name and others come from Terrapin Ridge and many other gourmet companies. We have many distributors and try to keep current with food trends,” Mary Lou said.

The shop also offers a selection of memorial items to remember those who have passed such as memory lamps and garden stones.

“These gifts are lasting sources of comfort at a difficult time,” she said.

While the store does not offer gift wrapping, they do give free gift bags and tissue paper for customers to dress up their purchase.

Check out the store’s Facebook page or website for special events, including Friends and Family Day on Dec. 12. Also, Dec. 15 is Countdown To Christmas Day with sales and some surprises planned.

“We have a dedicated staff who are cheerful, friendly and willing to help customers to find just what they are looking for. We have many repeat customs and special customers who travel to see us for the holiday,” Fred said.

And they must be doing something right.

One woman on the shop’s Facebook page wrote: “Love this shop!! Can’t say enough good things. I always leave with something unexpected. A great place to find gifts!”

14 GO LOCAL DECEMBER 2019

The store also placed first in the Best Gift Shop category of The North Central News Reader’s Poll 2019.

Somersvillage Gifts and Gourmet Baskets is located at 111 Main St. in Somersville, Conn. Hours are Tuesday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

For the holiday season, the store is open Mondays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Sundays from 1 to 4 p.m.

For more information, visit somersvillagegifts.com or call 860-265-2282.

GOLOCALMAGAZINES.COM 15

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AGAWAM, MA

KIDS CHRISTMAS CHEZ JOSEF 176 SHOEMAKER LANE, AGAWAM, MASSACHUSETTS 01001 SUNDAY, DECEMBER 8, 2019 Brunch with Melody the Elf starting at 10:00 am. Kids sing-along, magic, dancing, stories and more. Bring a gift for Toys for Tots - Chez Josef has partnered with Toys for Tots as a drop off location for this event. There will be a special appearance from Santa.

Tickets: Kids $12, Adults $22, and Children 3 and under are Free. For more information visit chezjosef.com/events.

CHICOPEE, MA

PAWZAAR HOLIDAY CRAFT FAIR 2019 CHICOPEE FAMILY MOOSE • 244 FULLER ROAD, CHICOPEE, MA SATURDAY, DECEMBER 7 FROM 10AM - 3PM Please join us for a great day. We are excited to have some of the Valley’s finest crafters for a day of shopping, raffles, music & more! Gifts and baked goods for everyone - even the pets. All proceeds benefit the shelter animals at TJO. Hope to see you there.

EAST LONGMEADOW, MA

HOLIDAY STROLL & WINTER FARMERS MARKET THE LONGMEADOW SHOPS 690 BLISS ROAD, EAST LONGMEADOW, MA 01106 SATURDAY, DECEMBER 7 FROM 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM Take a holiday stroll around the Longmeadow Shops. In addition to all the fantastic shopping and dining options at the shops during our holiday stroll you will find the winter version of the much loved Longmeadow Shops Farmers Market. Wreaths, kissing balls, bakery items, cheeses, milk, honey, and more will be available. Our friends from Batch Ice Cream will stop by with their ice cream truck for a special Saturday visit.

Students from both the Longmeadow and East Longmeadow High School will stroll “The Shops” and spread some holiday cheer.

HOLYOKE, MA

HOLIDAY WINE PAIRING DINNER THE LOG CABIN - 500 EASTHAMPTON RD, HOLYOKE, MA 500 EASTHAMPTON ROADHOLYOKE, MA, 01040 THURSDAY, DECEMBER 19, 2019 FROM 6:00 PM 11:00 PM Join us at the Log Cabin for a four-course Wine Pairing Dinner followed by DJ & Dancing! $47 Per Person / Drink Tickets Available for Purchase. Entrée Choices must be selected in advance. Chef Choice Vegan / Vegetarian / Gluten Free Entrées available upon request.

NORTHAMPTON, MA

39TH ANNUAL NORTHAMPTON WINTER CRAFT FAIR NORTHAMPTON HIGH SCHOOL, 380 ELM ST, NORTHAMPTON, MA 01060 SATURDAY, DECEMBER 7 FROM 9:30AM-4:30PM AND SUNDAY, DECEMBER 8 FROM 10:00 AM-4:00 PM The Northampton Winter Craft Fair is among the best established in the region, with 88 exhibitors representing a wide variety of fine quality handmade crafts and over 2,500 in attendance. This event is in support of CHDs Big Brothers Big Sisters (BBBS) of Hampshire County, raising money for youth mentoring programs. The Fair is juried and shoppers pay a $5 admission fee. Food is available for purchase throughout the weekend and the Fair takes place in any weather.

AMHERST, MA

SUNDAY BRUNCH WITH SANTA INN ON BOLTWOOD - 30 BOLTWOOD AVE, AMHERST, MA 01002 SUNDAY, DECEMBER 1, 8, 15, & 22 FROM 10:30 am - 2:30 pm Sunday Brunch will have a special visitor and a whole lot of holiday cheer this Decem20 GO LOCAL DECEMBER 2019

ber! Join us (and Santa!) for brunch Sunday, December 1st, 8th, 15th, 22nd, 2019, 10:30 am – 2:30 pm. Kids can decorate gingerbread cookies and draw with Santa. Reservations are strongly recommended, visit www.30boltwood.com or by calling (413) 835-2011.

SOUTH HADLEY, MA

HOLIDAY STROLL TOWN COMMON - SOUTH HADLEY, MA, 01075 FRIDAY, DECEMBER 6 FROM 5:00 PM 8:00 PM The South Hadley and Granby Chamber of Commerce will be sponsoring the 31st annual Holiday Stroll at the Town Green on Friday, December 6th. The holiday lights on the green will be lit for the season that evening, thanks to the generosity of SHELD. There will be musical entertainment at the bandstand from 5:30 until 7:30 pm. Santa will arrive at 6 pm and there will be activities for the children throughout the evening.

If you have any questions please email melissa@shgchamber.com.

WILBRAHAM, MA

HOLLY FAIR 2019 WILBRAHAM UNITED CHURCH, 500 MAIN ST, WILBRAHAM, MA 01095 SATURDAY DECEMBER 14 FROM 9:00 AM TO 3:00 PM Our Annual Holly Fair includes over 80 vendors, our refreshing Holly Cafe, and the World Famous Cookie Walk. We are all in the same boat, finding answers, making a difference in our and other people’s lives and doing it with love and laughter. Please visit http:// WilbrahamUnitedChurch.org for more information.

ELLINGTON, CT

ELLINGTON FARMERS MARKET HOLIDAY FOOD FESTIVAL INDIAN VALLEY FAMILY YMCA - 11 PINNEY ST, ELLINGTON, CT SATURDAY, DECEMBER 21 AT 2:00 PM Guest vendors will be on hand offering holiday food items. Local farm products including beef, chicken, pork, lamb, diary and eggs are available. Seafood, baked goods, jams, pickles, salsa, specialty foods, bath and home products, ready made meals and artisan wares will also be available. The market has a matching SNAP program. Not all vendors accept credit cards so be sure to bring enough cash to purchase your favorite market items.

GRANBY, CT

THE NEW ENGLAND RINGERS PRESENT “CHRISTMAS AROUND THE WORLD” SOUTH CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH - 242 SALMON BROOK ST, GRANBY, CT SUNDAY, DECEMBER 8 FROM 4:00 PM - 7:00 PM Join us to hear beloved Christmas and Hanukkah music on a six-octave set of Schulmerich Handbells and six-octave set of tubular bells called Choirchimes. The performers of The New England Ringers are so well-rehearsed that their music seems to appear as if by magic. The arrangements are spectacular and the interweaving of melodies, textures and tones is spellbinding. Again and again, their audiences are surprised by joy. For more information visit our website at www.southchurchgranby.org.

SUFFIELD, CT

HOLIDAY HOUSE TOUR 83 MOUNTAIN RD, SUFFIELD, CT SATURDAY, DECEMBER 7, 2019 AT 3:00 PM UNTIL 7:00 PM This December, Main Street will be bustling with activity as we prepare for a spectacular House Tour as part of our town’s 350th anniversary celebrations. Six beautifully restored historic homes and two museum houses spanning three centuries of Suffield’s history will be showcased. Museum Houses are open from 11:00 to 5:00; Private Homes from 3:00 to 7:00 pm. Tickets: $30.00 in Advance, $35.00 Day of Tour. For tickets and information visit www.suffieldgardenclub.org.

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STORROWTON VILLAGE MUSEUM 1305 MEMORIAL AVE, WEST SPRINGFIELD, MA Bundle up and bring your friends and family to the Yuletide Lantern Light Evening on Wed., Dec. 11 from 6 to 8pm. Shop in our Village & Christmas Shop, listen to the music in the Meeting House and stop by Potter Mansion for self-serve Cocoa Cafe and to decorate your own holiday edible. Admission is $8 in advance/$10 day of event, children 2 and under are free. Experience the magic of an old-fashioned winter evening on a self-guided tour of Storrowton’s cozy homes and buildings, decorated for the season and illuminated by lanterns and candlelight. Be sure to visit www.storrowtonvillage.com for information and tickets.

HOLIDAY IN THE PARK SIX FLAGS NEW ENGLAND ROUTE 159, 1623 MAIN ST, AGAWAM, MA 01001 Weekends & Select Days November 23 - January 1 the lights shining bright, the cocoa and s’mores toasty hot, and the sleighs of our thrilling rides zooming as fast as Santa’s. Boasting over 50 rides, shows, and attractions, this winter season just got so much cooler. This is the most magical time to visit Six Flags, featuring visits with Santa and Mrs. Claus, tree lighting spectaculars, hot cocoa and seasonal delights, coaster sleigh rides, and much more. Admission to Holiday in the Park is included with a Six Flags Season Pass or Membership. Visit https://www.sixflags.com/newengland/special-events/holiday-in-the-park-event for more information.

WINTERFEST AND THE TUNNEL OF LIGHTS CONNECTICUT TROLLEY MUSEUM 58 NORTH ROAD, EAST WINDSOR 06088 Start a family tradition of coming for a trolley ride during the holiday season. Whether you ride a closed car or brave the cold to ride the open “electric sleigh”, we promise you a good time and one that you’ll remember for years. Join your motormen in singing traditional Christmas carols as the trolley makes its way through the “Tunnel of Lights”. When you return, head inside the Visitors Center which has been transformed into a Winter Wonderland complete with model trains, decorations galore, and you can even buy a delicious cup of hot cocoa to sip as you enjoy the entertainment. For more information, visit ct-trolley.org or call (860) 627-6540.

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FLAGSHIP DENTAL GROUP

DR. MICHAEL KELLIHER , DMD, DR. CHRIS SMITH, DDS & DR. STEPHANIE BROWN, DDS What distinguishes you from other Businesses in your category?

LONGMEADOW, MASSACHUSETTS We have been in business for over 30 years and we continue to grow. With innovative new techniques, we take great pride in broadening our skills which enhances our list of available services. Our “Crown in a Day” process allows us to start and deliver your custom made porcelain crown within a few hours of walking in the door. Patients leave with a beautifully crafted crown that is structurally and artistically flawless.

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

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Why should people do business with you?

Our dedication to being an elite office is taken very seriously. We have built our reputation on honesty, integrity and hard work. We keep our fees lower than most, yet go above and beyond what is expected. We are respectful of our patients and acknowledge that they truly are the cornerstone of this practice. Seeing the many generations of families that come through our door, it truly sets us apart from many other offices.

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! KEITH O’CONNOR  SANTA’S TRAINS AT LOOK PARK

Santa's Trains T

he trains will be rolling once again beginning December 13 in Look Park in Northampton, where Santa’s Trains and the jolly ol’ elf himself and Mrs. Claus have set up shop for another holiday season inside the cozy and festively decorated Garden House turned Victorian train station.

“Our seasonal celebration began many years ago with simply a visit to Santa’s Workshop. Then 10 years ago we expanded the event to include operating train layouts, and a hallway of decorated trees leading up to Santa and Mrs. Claus in their majestic seats waiting to greet all the good little boys and girls who come to see the trains and visit with them,” said Kristin Cole, director of Development for Look Park.

The annual event, which is open from 4-8 p.m. through Dec. 23, is made

at Look Park

GOLOCALMAGAZINES.COM 27

possible by presenting sponsors PeoplesBank and Bob and Marianne Foote, longtime friends and supporters of the park. In all, over 140 sponsors and many volunteers contribute to bringing Santa’s Trains to life each year.

But Santa’s Trains isn’t solely for the kids.

It is for model train lovers of all ages.

“There would be no trains if it wasn’t for the dedication of the Pioneer Valley Model Railroad Club. In fact, when Santa’s Trains is over for the season, you can usually find Steve Allen from the club returning as early as January to the Garden House to begin tinkering and adding new elements to one of the displays we store in the basement,” Cole said.

Allen noted that, once again, three model train layouts will be chugging along the tracks this year.

“Our main layout is very whimsical and began as a loose interpretation of the Polar Express, but has grown to include other things such as a Christmas parade. Another layout has a carnival atmosphere and gravitates toward the North Pole. And our final layout incorporates the theme of the village of Florence, home to Look Park,” he said.

“There is animation and blinking lights on all three layouts, which seems to mesmerize the kids. We also put in popular cartoon characters from Disney, as well as some ‘Star Wars’ figures. I constructed several of the building on the layouts, and George Reneris and Harry Ruddock from the club have done a lot of the electrical work and lighting,” he added.

Members from the model train club staff Santa’s Trains every night to answer any questions and to make sure the trains remain operational and that the tracks are clean.

“We also plan a scavenger hunt to get the kids more involved. They are given a paper printed with particular items to be found on the layouts, such as Yoda wearing a Santa’s hat,” Allen said.

While members of the Pioneer Valley Model Railroad Club get enjoyment out of running Santa’s Trains, it means much more to them.

“We do it for all to enjoy with the hope 28 GO LOCAL DECEMBER 2019

that they will fall in love with model railroading just as we have, and perhaps become interested in joining our club.

Our members are growing older and we are looking for volunteers to help us during Santa’s Trains and to become members of our club,” Allen said.

He noted people can learn more about the Pioneer Valley Model Railroad Club on their Facebook page.

Each evening features a special guest conductor from the community – including sponsors, local businesses and organizations, and other special individuals such as children’s author Jarrett Krosoczka, who now resides in Florence.

Krosoczka, whose latest book, “Hey, Kiddo,” was a finalist for the National Book Awards 2018 for Young People’s Literature, has been part of Santa’s Trains for many years.

“He has a larger than life personality which suits him perfectly as one of our guest conductors. Jarrett is especially great with greeting the kids and helping to put a magical smile on their faces as they enter Santa’s Trains” said Cole, noting it is the conductor’s important job to greet children as they enter the Garden House and punch the “Magic Ticket” given to them.

In addition to the trains, the Garden House is adorned with a forest of festively decorated trees to a changing theme each year. Last year’s theme was “An Enchanted Christmas,” which inspired many Harry Potter decorations, Cole noted.

“This year we have selected the theme ‘Creatures of Christmas.’ It’s a nod to the many animals found here in the park, but I’m sure there will be some surprise creatures as well,” Cole said.

“We have a dedicated team of volunteers, whom we endearingly refer to as our ‘crew of elves,’ who decide on the theme each year. They actually start planning early in the year to decide our next theme, then set out on a buying spree throughout the year looking for unique ornaments and decorations for the trees. They are always looking for

items to meet our theme that can be placed on the 30 different trees when it is decorating time. And each tree is assigned a special name based on their adornments,” she added.

The “train station’s” Holiday Sweet Shoppe will also be open to offer a range of yummy treats for purchase, including cookies and hot chocolate for sipping by the fireplace.

Once leaving the Garden House, visitors can continue their holiday journey around the park to view its Winter Wonderland light display.

All of the more than 50 displays have been lovingly handcrafted by staff in the Look Park Maintenance Department, who each year continues to update them with brighter LED lights. Among the scenic sights spread throughout the park include a princess castle, carolers, train, snowman, menorah, nativity scene, Santa and his reindeer, poinsettia, and candy canes. Other displays are reflective of the wildlife you might see when visiting Look Park, such as a woodpecker in a tree, hummingbird, or a squirrel eating a nut.

The lights are on nightly now through Jan. 1 from 4-9 p.m.

Those who want to experience some of the holiday lights while riding in the open air can board the Look Park Holiday Express for a hayride around the park. Tickets are $5 and the train departs nightly every 20 minutes beginning at 4:20 p.m. The last departure is at 7:40 p.m.

Santa’s Trains and the Winter Wonderland lights are open to the public free of charge thanks to the Look Park Board of Trustees, who feel the public should not have to pay to visit Santa and Mrs. Claus, as well as the generosity of many businesses and community members who sponsor the event. Donations are welcome, however, at Santa’s Trains or at the booth when leaving the park.

For more information, visit lookpark.org or call 413-584-5457.

GOLOCALMAGAZINES.COM 29

Open to the Public

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! RECIPE SUBMITTED BY JANET PARÉ

HOLIDAY CHOCOLATE BARK

Chocolate bark is a delicious, versatile confection that makes a beautiful, edible holiday gift. The recipes listed are family favorites but use your creativity to make them your own. The possibilities are endless. The basic recipe can also be easily doubled or tripled.

Basic Recipe 1 lb. chocolate (Use high quality wafers for best results) 3/4 cup dried fruit 3/4 cup chopped nuts

Line a cookie sheet with lightly buttered parchment or waxed paper. Set aside.

If using blocks of chocolate, chop into even pieces. Place chocolate wafers or pieces in metal or glass, heat-proof bowl. It should be large enough to sit on top of the rim of a pot with 2 inches of water without touching the water.

Variations: crushed cookies, pretzels, peanuts, peppermint candy, caramel bits, sea salt, etc.

Heat the pot of water over medium-high heat until it barely simmers; place the bowl with chocolate wafers or pieces on the pot of simmering water. Reduce heat to low.

Stained Glass Bark 1 lb. white chocolate

Let chocolate melt without stirring until about 2/3 is melted. Then stir until all pieces are melted. Remove 1 or 2 tbsp. and set aside to drizzle over bark after toppings are added.

1/4 cup each dried cranberries or cherries, chopped dried apricots, and golden raisins 3/4 cup chopped pecans Black Forest Bark

1 lb. dark or semi-sweet chocolate 3/4 cup dried, tart cherries 3/4 cup sliced almonds Dastardly Mash Bark 1 lb. milk chocolate 3/4 cup raisins 3/4 cup chopped, mixed nuts

Pour onto prepared parchment lined cookie sheet. Spread to desired thickness.

Sprinkle dried fruit and nuts evenly over the chocolate. Once chocolate has begun to set up, drizzle with set aside chocolate.* Allow to harden at room temperature.

Break into pieces. ENJOY! *Note: When making multiple batches using white, dark and milk chocolate, drizzle with all 3 types of chocolate. You can also dip dried apricots in the chocolate before pouring on the cookie sheet for another tasty treat.

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.

31 GOLOCALMAGAZINES.COM 29

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!KEITH O’CONNOR  DAVID HOSMER

Table & Vine T

he term “destination” is often used to describe some of the best locations to visit.

Yankee Candle Village in Deerfield is considered a “destination,” so is the Basketball Hall of Fame in Springfield, for example. And when it comes to shopping for fine wines, spirits, beers and specialty food, Table & Vine in West Springfield is on that list, too.

It is a shopping experience that includes 4,000 varieties of wine, 3,500 spirits, 3,500 domestic, imported, micro and craft-brewed beers, 150 artisan cheeses and 1,500 specialty foods – the largest to be found on the East Coast.

“Our vast selection truly makes us a destination shopping experience. We pride ourselves on supporting small businesses and working with local producers to sell their beers, wines and spirits. What also sets us apart is

Holiday Party Planning Advice our many expert staff members who can answer any of your questions and make suggestions based on your taste and budget,” said Steven T. Smith, marketing and media relations specialist for Table & Vine, a division of Big Y Foods, Inc. While their knowledgeable staff is helpful anytime of the year, they can come in extra handy during the holidays.

Planning on having a holiday party and need to stock your bar? Then you better make a list of all the spirits, wines, beers, and other non-alcoholic drinks you will need for thirsty partygoers.

“I definitely recommend some Steel Dust Vodka which is made from corn and distilled in Texas, plus it’s gluten free and vodka is far and away the number one spirit sold. I’m also a big

fan of Drumshanbo Gunpowder Irish Gin, and you will want to have some bourbon, scotch and rum on hand.

Plantation Rum, which is a Frenchbased company, bottles their rums from all over the Caribbean and it’s a good choice for your bar. If you think that you will be making a Manhattan or a Negroni, then you will want some vermouth, but a nice one like the French Dolin Vermouth or Carpano Antica, a sweet vermouth from Italy.

When you are only using one or two ingredients in a drink, quality matters more because that is all you are tasting,” said Michael Brunelle, corporate wine and spirits sales manager.

If you are looking for a different beer to offer up to your guests, Steve Thibault, corporate beer and liquor sales manager, recommended trying a ginger beer, which he said is very GOLOCALMAGAZINES.COM 33

popular at this time of year, including Gosling’s Dark ’n Stormy, named after the cocktail, which is a dark rum and ginger beer mix.

“You will also need a selection of hard ciders like Angry Orchard or City Roots and today’s popular hard seltzers which have really moved the needle on the beer business year-round,” Thibault said.

On the wine side, Brunelle said “the simpler the better” for your selection.

“Choose one or two popular white wines such as a Chardonnay and Pinot Grigio and one or two reds like Cabernet Sauvignon and Pinot Noir. If I were having a party, I would purchase a handful of California Landscape wines, priced under $12, including their Pinot Grigio, Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Pinot Noir, which recently won a blind tasting challenge with our staff as the best Pinot Noir under $15. We also have a total crowd pleaser called Hierogram. It’s a Zinfandel from Lodi in California with lots of rich fruit without being sweet.

Not to forget, you will also need fruit juices like orange and cranberry juice for mixers, tonic water, and sodas, including sugar-free.

When making your selections for the holiday bar (or simply for yourself or giftgiving), you can also choose from Table & Vine’s extensive collection of local spirits, beer and wine.

“We have a great partnership with Berkshire Brewing with whom we contract to brew our Table & Vine Craft Brews such as Mount Greylock Porter, River Valley IPA and Colonial Rebellion,” Thibault said.

When it comes to local brews, just a sampling of what Table & Vine has to offer includes Iron Duke Brewing in Ludlow, Spencer Brewery in Spencer, Hitchcock Brewing in Bernardston, Fort Hill Brewery in Easthampton, Abandoned Building Brewery in Easthampton, New City Brewery in Easthampton and nearly 30 others from Massachusetts. There are also beers from Connecticut such as Hog River Brewing Co. in Hartford and Thomas Hooker Brewery in Bloomfield, as well as others from Vermont and New Hampshire, 34 GO LOCAL DECEMBER 2019

including Harpoon Brewery in Windsor, Vermont.

Local wineries include Black Birch Vineyard in Hatfield, Mineral Hills Winery in Northampton, Hardwick Vineyard and Winery in Hardwick, and Truro Vineyards at Cape Cod. “Steve and I are very proud of our relationship with our local partners and we challenge ourselves every day to find even more local business to work with,” Brunelle said.

In addition to local wines, Brunelle said still another option is to include some of Table & Vines’ exclusive Vineyard Selection wines.

“Along with Michael Quinlan, our fine wine buyer, we have literally searched the world over to find wines we personally enjoy and would want to drink at home. These are wines that we want to share with our customers as well. They are great value wines that won’t break the bank and offer something new and different to taste,” Brunelle said.

“These selections represent 11 different countries that we have traveled to including Germany, Australia, New Zealand, Chile, Argentina, France, Italy, Spain and beyond. And I think they really deserve a spot on your holiday table or anytime,” he added about the wines which range in price from $9 to $40. Just look for the Vineyard Selection shelf talker or neck hanger and you can be sure you’re making a great choice,” he added.

When the time comes to break bread at the holiday table, both Brunelle and Thibault offered some tips.

“First, I think every party or dinner should start with a flute of champagne or sparkling wine handed out as your guests enter your home. We have a really great Prosecco right now, which is on fire and singlehandedly moving the needle with sparkling wine sales.

Masottino has a nice acidity to it with a peachy, apply flavor. It was recently awarded 96 points from Decanter

magazine. As we say, ‘bubbles make everything better,’” Brunelle said.

If you are serving turkey or roasted chicken, Brunelle said he “would lean toward a white wine,” which is also great for seafood.

“We have a great Chardonnay, El Enemigo from the Catena family and 98 points from wine critic James Suckling, which sells for $25 and is not that much of a splurge when you consider how much you have already invested in the dinner table,” Brunelle said.

For beef dishes you want to “step on the gas,” he noted, with red wine such as a Burgundy, Cabernet Sauvignon or Pinot Noir.

“You might also want to consider some Merlots which are beautifully structured wines that are elegant and never seem to overpower dinner, and that make your food more front and center where it should be,” Brunelle said.

Beers at this time of year or anytime pair well with hearty dishes such as beef stew and are also good with some cheeses, noted Thibault.

“Porters, stouts, and Belgian style ales have a great spiciness to them and balance out the different foods you are eating,” he said.

When New Year’s Eve arrives and you want to share some bubbly as the clock strikes 12, there is plenty to choose from.

“If you want something sweet, then don’t go for a Brut, which is dry. You would want more of a Martini and Rossi Asti which sells for $8.98 in December. And, if you are looking for the best, you can go all the way up to Dom Perignon for about $150 a bottle,” Brunelle said.

For gift giving during the holiday season, Marianne Therrien, gourmet foods manager, has created a selection of some 15 different pre-made gift baskets filled with gourmet goodies that range from handcrafted chocolates to crackers, jams, jellies, and imported and domestic artisan cheeses, GOLOCALMAGAZINES.COM 35

along with that fine bottle of wine, champagne, spirits or beer.

“Marianne and her staff also enjoy working with customers to create gift baskets filled with personal selections for that very special person you are giving to,” Smith said.

Shoppers will also find the typical buckets of six-packs of beer with different brewer logos and a bag of peanuts that are popular gift ideas during the holiday season.

“There are also many great options for spirits which often come with value-added packaging at this time of year, such as including a rocks glass or flask for the same cost as the traditional bottle,” Brunelle said.

If you really want to impress, consider gifting a bottle of Johnnie Walker Blue Label Scotch or The Last Drop, which is a 1950 Cognac, or even a bottle of a limited-edition Utopia from Samuel Adams.

Also, if you love the taste of beer and wine, but need to choose the non-alcoholic variety, ask the staff for their recommendations from Chardonnays to Cabernets and more, as well as the many different styles of beer minus the alcohol.

Additional Table & Vine experiences on a smaller scale can be found in Northampton, Greenfield, Wilbraham, Holden and Franklin, Massachusetts Big Y Supermarkets.

You can learn much more about Table & Vine and their flagship West Springfield, Massachusetts, store on 1119 Riverdale St. along Route 5, by visiting tableandvine.com 36 GO LOCAL DECEMBER 2019

Happy Holidays!

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TREAT YOURSELF TO SOME ROYAL ENTERTAINMENT THIS HOLIDAY SEASON Talent abounds at the Majestic Theater in West Springfield, and not just on the stage. The many people behind the scenes are an incredibly dedicated and talented group, and are vital to the theater’s mission of “providing Pioneer Valley based actors, actresses, and theater technicians with a professional space in which to perform.” The theater, previously a movie house, opened in 1997, and has been providing live theater and entertainment ever since.

The current production is Forever Plaid, which runs through December 8th. Written by Stuart Ross, it tells the story of a semi-professional harmony

group on their way to their first big gig at the Hilton Airport cocktail bar.

Traveling in their red, 1954 Mercury convertible and rehearsing their finale, they are killed instantly when they are broadsided by a bus. However, somehow they manage, posthumously, to take the stage for one final show. This musical is funny, enchanting, and full of songs that are memorable for many, such as Chain Gang, Catch a Falling Star, Shangri-La, and Love is a Many Splendored Thing. Music direction is provided by the legendary Mitch Chakour, and it stars Chris Coffey, Brian Michael Henry, Bryan Austermann, and Tomm Knightlee.

Danny Eaton, the Producing Director, is the “inspiration for and founding member “of the Theater Project.

He is responsible for establishing the calendar of shows for each season, has GOLOCALMAGAZINES.COM 41

written original musicals, and has produced and directed many of the productions at the Majestic. His many shows have been seen locally, as well as in New York City and Chicago.

In addition to his impressive education and background in play writing, producing and directing, he is the 2009 winner of the New England Theater Conference Regional Theater Award for Outstanding Achievement in the American Theater.

GO Local was able to have a “behind the scenes” tour of the Theater’s three properties, where amazing things happen to provide the shows and concerts for us to enjoy. We were also fortunate to be able to talk with several of the many people who apply their talents to make these shows possible. One of these people was Todd Kadis, Marketing Director and Treasurer. He, along with Christine Thompson, Wardrobe Mistress, spoke about the three properties that the Majestic owns.

These include a production shop at the Baldwin Street Studio, the theater itself, and a house which is “home” to out-of-town actors while they are in a show.

Inside the production studio is a large, well-stocked workshop where the sets are built; a sewing room where the costumes are made; a prop room full of everything imaginable, from furniture and artificial plants to a piano, lights, and Christmas decorations; a costume closet which is neatly organized and stocked with shoes, hats, wigs, dresses, suit coats, and every conceivable type of clothing; and a large room used for a rehearsal space.

It is in this rehearsal space that the floor is marked off to match the size and dimensions of the real stage, and the set is assembled and placed on the floor. Rehearsals take place here until about a week or so before a show’s opening. After “tech night” where the sound and lighting, among other things, are checked and finalized, the entire set is packed up and moved to the actual theater.

Kadis also explained about the Actors’ Equity Association, the labor union founded in 1913 to advance the careers of its members by negotiating such things as wages and working conditions. While some performers at the Majestic are in the union and others are not, all must audition for the shows.

Kadis is also responsible for the familiar 42 GO LOCAL DECEMBER 2019

“Classic Raffle” held for the last 24 years as a fundraiser for the Majestic. This year’s vehicles are a 1964 red Corvette and a 1995 Harley-Davidson FLSTN, which will be awarded on December 31st at midnight. As Kadis summed up his time spent at the Majestic he said, “Some people play golf…I play theater.”

Another member of the production team we talked with was Dawn McKay, the Costume Designer, who has been at the Majestic for 7 seasons now. McKay walked us through the process she follows when creating her designs. It begins with her reading the selected play/ musical several times to get a feeling for what is called for, followed by research into the fashions of the time, right down to the proper undergarments. She then meets with the director and the set and lighting designers to discover their vision for the play. Next comes sketching and culling pictures from magazines to see what fabrics and colors might work.

Finally, when the actors and actresses arrive, measurements are taken, and more discussion ensues to determine what their vision for their character is.

The theater has some historic patterns available, and McKay and the Wardrobe Mistress may be able to shop on-line or go “thrifting” to find appropriate garments. Sometimes, minor modifications to an existing outfit can result in the perfect costume. The time frame for this process can range from a few weeks to several months, but from the time they meet with the actors, there is only 2 to 3 weeks to complete the costumes. McKay stresses that all of the artists involved in this process collaborate as a team to produce a set design, lighting design, and costumes that work well together.

The Set Designer, Greg Trochlil (who was unavailable for an interview) is “really very, very good,” said McKay. “His sets are beautiful…not too complicated for the space, but just right.” The correct lighting can make such a difference, she added, in whether the costumes stand out and show the correct color, or blend into the background.

GOLOCALMAGAZINES.COM 43

Working hand-in-hand with McKay is the Wardrobe Mistress, Christine Thompson, who is also on the Board of Directors and Costume Designer for the Children’s Theater. At the beginning of a production, she works with the Costume Designer to take measurements, pull from stock what might be used, and makes the necessary adjustments to ensure a good fit for the garment. During the run of the show, Thompson makes 44 GO LOCAL DECEMBER 2019

sure the costumes are laundered and in good repair. At the end of the show, the costumes are cleaned and returned to stock or their owners. She also keeps the costume closet organized, accepts appropriate donations of items, and loans or rents the costumes to other theater companies. Her favorite part of working at the theater is the people she meets.

The current show, Forever Plaid, has been “loads of work,” she said, “but so enjoy-

able. We have a good team of people all around. Greg Trochlil has always been very helpful to us, not only in set design, but in using his tailoring and sewing skills to make sports jackets, gowns, or any other piece we may need.”

When you call the box office, you may be speaking with Katia Ball, a box office clerk and usher coordinator. She has worked at the Majestic for more than 22 years, and in 2004 was presented with a “Howdy Award” for excellence in providing hospitality. Ball happily accepted the award from the Greater Springfield Convention and Visitors Bureau, but emphasized she was accepting it on behalf of the whole “family” that works with her.

Home for the Holidays is the theater’s traditional holiday production. An audience favorite for many years, “it is a homegrown production, created new each year.” Holiday cheer, songs everyone loves, and visits from the Grinch and Santa add to the fun. Again, the music is directed by Mitch Chakour, and features the theater’s own talented singers and musicians. Home for the Holidays runs from December 11th through the 22nd.

Also for the holiday season, the Majestic offers a one-night (December 16th) improv comedy show, during which their troupe takes suggestions and inspiration from the audience. It’s a fun holiday themed evening full of surprises and antic comedy.

An evening spent at the Majestic can also include a visit to their café, where, an hour before the show and during intermission, you may purchase a beverage or snack. There is even a small gift shop available.

You should definitely consider attending a show at the intimate Majestic Theater, especially now during the hustle bustle of the holiday season. Relax, grab a drink and a snack, and enjoy the show!

The Majestic Theater is located at 131 Elm Street, West Springfield, Massachusetts, www.majestictheater.com or 413-747-7797.

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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.

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local einstein

TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE - NO GOOGLING!

WHEN THERE ARE 2 FULL MOONS IN THE SAME MONTH, WHAT IS THE SECOND ONE CALLED?

SOLDIER FIELD IS THE HOME STADIUM TO WHAT NFL TEAM? [A] [B] [C] [D]

3

Cleveland Browns Chicago Bears Pittsburgh Steelers Kansas City Chiefs

[A] Blue Moon [B] New Moon [C] Full Moon [D] Lunar Moon WHICH ACTRESS, IN HER FIRST STARRING ROLE, PLAYED GEORGE’S WIFE, MARY IN THE CHRISTMAS CLASSIC “IT’S A WONDERFUL LIFE?”

WHAT COLOR IS SANTA’S BELT? [A] Red [B] Gold [C] Black [D] White

5

[A] Loretta Young [B] Susan Hayward [C] Vivian Leigh [D] Donna Reed WHO ARE THE ONLY TWO REINDEERS SPECIFICALLY MENTIONED IN THE LYRICS OF “HERE COMES SANTA CLAUS?”

WHICH STATE IS THIS?

[A] Comet and Cupid [B] Vixen and Blitzen [C] Rudolph and Donner [D] Dasher and Dancer

[A] Georgia [B] Missouri [C] Indiana [D] Iowa

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WHO SAID “TOO OFTEN WE ENJOY THE COMFORT OF OPINION WITHOUT THE DISCOMFORT OF THOUGHT?

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RANK

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

160 110 50 3

Prodigy Egghead Meh Simpleton

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

HOW MANY DIFFERENT INSTRUMENTS DID PRINCE PLAY ON HIS DEBUT ALBUM? [A] 27 [B] 13 [C] 9 [D] 0

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Today I Matter A Family’s Fight Against Addiction

N

othing shakes, tests or strengthens a family’s foundation more than when one of their own succumbs to disease.

In August 2016, Today I Matter, Inc., a non-profit 501(C)3 organization, was established as a tribute to the memory of Timothy Lally who died in January 2016 from a heroin overdose. “Our mission is to reduce the shame and stigma of mental illness and addiction, while promoting the emotional, physical and mental health of the community,” says John Lally, Timothy’s father and cofounder/executive director of Today I Matter, or as it’s lovingly dubbed T.I.M. Together with his wife Laura, son Brendan, and volunteers, Lally says Today I Matter “reinforces the idea that we all matter, every day, no matter what our struggle is.”

Timothy Lally grew up like any other kid in Ellington, Connecticut.

“His childhood seemed typical,” says Lally. “He was smart [and] witty, with a great sense of humor.” Timothy was passionate about art and music. That all changed during his senior year when his family started to notice changes as a result of depression and severe anxiety with panic attacks. “He withdrew from the baseball and track teams,” says Lally, and “his grades slipped dramatically as his anxiety worsened. He became more isolated.” To combat these feelings of depression and anxiety, Timothy tried many antidepressants and psychotherapy, but unfortunately, they proved to be ineffectual.

Ultimately, Timothy found solace in prescription opiates and eventually developed an addiction that

lead to heroin use. Before his death, Tim made many attempts to stay sober through addiction treatment.

Furthermore, he made attempts to aid others in their recovery as well by offering rides to treatments and treatment referrals. Adds Lally, “Tim felt motivated to remain sober. He hated his addiction, [but] he fell victim to the high relapse rate in opiate addiction.”

After Timothy’s death, his family vowed to help those struggling with addiction, depression and anxiety, as well as their families. “[We wanted] to continue and expand on Tim’s desire to help those struggling with these diseases,” says Lally. In addition to Today I Matter, Inc., John also works as a psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. Having spoken at town forums, schools, churches, to Boy GOLOCALMAGAZINES.COM 47

Scouts, and more; Lally says he wants to “educate others about the diseases of addiction and mental illness and the need to treat others with compassion and non-judgement.” Today I Matter and the Lallys’ commitment to advocacy and education extend to the State and National levels of legislature as well. Adds Lally, “in coordination with town and state prevention councils and Human Services departments, Today I Matter offers training classes to the community in Narcan (an opiate overdose reversal medication) and in QPR (an easy to learn method of helping someone contemplating suicide).”

Timothy’s legacy also lives on through scholarships in his name of48 GO LOCAL DECEMBER 2019

fered by Today I Matter to Ellington High School students pursuing majors in Art and Music. Moreover, Today I Matter’s most prominent program is the Memorial Poster Project, which Lally says has been likened to the Vietnam Memorial in Washington, D.C. “[We] presently have 364 2x3 foot posters with photos of individuals lost to addiction, mostly opiate overdose,” says Lally. In addition to their photo, each poster lists the person’s name, town and two of their talents or traits. Explains Lally, “these descriptors tell about what the world has lost when these individuals passed. They are remembered as vibrant individuals and so much more than their disease.” The memorial represents individuals from over 34 states, and has travelled throughout Connecticut and Massachusetts, while also appearing in Philadelphia and Washington D.C. Ultimately, says Lally, “the goal of this project is to pay tribute to these individuals and put a face to the epidemic of overdose deaths and to demonstrate the reality of the problem today.”

While resources and a myriad of treatment options are available for addiction and mental illness, the Lallys urge families to “educate themselves about the best treatment practices.”

The American Society of Addiction Medicine can also offer referrals to addiction specialists. By joining support groups, or speaking with a healthcare professional, the Lallys hope families can openly discuss the role addiction or mental illness is playing within their family and shirk any blame, fear or judgment associated with it, so that it can be adequately addressed and successfully treated.

For those looking to volunteer, Today I Matter is always accepting and open to the help. “[We are] looking to expand our services and programs, including offering support groups to those who lost a loved one to addiction, and a group to support families

presently struggling with addiction,” says Lally. For more information, visit, todayimatter.org or on Facebook at Today I Matter. “We encourage those struggling with addiction and mental illness to seek out supportive individuals who will not judge you,” says Lally, concluding, “silence only serves to perpetuate the stigma and keep people in isolation and out of treatment. For resources, call info line at 211.” Additionally, people can look to Lally’s blog “Addiction: From the Font Lines” at http://www.blog.todayimatter.org/ for more information and a firsthand look at the effects addiction has on everyone involved.

In December, John Lally will be addressing first year medical students at the University of Connecticut Medical School as part of a panel speaking about addiction.

Other activities are still in the planning stage. The updated schedule of Today I Matter, Inc. events is available at their website, todayimatter.org.

GOLOCALMAGAZINES.COM 49

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The Final Countdown

7 Places to Host a Holiday Event!

Whether you are looking for a formal holiday affair or a place to let loose a little, these seven event spots have you covered!

FIGARO RESTAURANT

SONNY’S PLACE

Figaro has been serving the Springfield and northern Connecticut region for more than 20 years, offering family-style Italian meals. It is located right next to I-91 and is a convenient gathering place between the CT-MA border. They offer a full banquet facility and catering.

Sonny’s Place is perfect to accommodate larger group outings who want to add a little adventure to their day. They have a broad range of activities for all ages, like mini bowling, an arcade, virtual reality, lazer tag, and carousel.

90 ELM ST.,ENFIELD, CT • FIGAROCT.COM

TWIN HILLS COUNTRY CLUB 700 WOLF SWAMP RD., LONGMEADOW, MA TWINHILLSCC.COM

Twin Hills Country Club has a large banquet facility that can hold hundreds of guests. It has a cocktail room with large glass windows that overlook the pristine golf course, plus an additional bar area. Let them take care of everything for you!

349 MAIN ST., SOMERS, CT SONNYSPLACE.COM

CAL’S WOOD FIRED BAR & GRILL

1068 RIVERDALE ST., W.SPRINGFIELD, MA CALSWOODFIREDGRILL.COM

Enjoy casual American fare in a vibrant setting at Cal’s, a cozy and comfortable option for those winter parties. Their banquet options include lunch, dinner, Sunday brunch, hors d’oeuvres and beverages.

THE FEDERAL RESTAURANT & BAR

MANEELY’S BANQUET & CATERING

LA NOTTE BANQUET FACILITY

Excellent service and delicious food and drinks await you at one of western Massachusetts’ finest eateries. Host your private luncheon, wedding shower, birthday, family party, corporate dinner, staff meeting, or company outing in one of their elegant, intimate spaces. With several different sized rooms to choose from, you can’t go wrong.

Located about a half hour from Springfield, Maneeley’s offers free WiFi, customized floor plans with theater- or classroom-style seating, and a private entrance.

You can have your event in-house or have it catered to your own site (breakfast, lunch or dinner). Maneely’s can accommodate any kind of party from small and informal to a large group outing.

La Notte has their own special events menu. A minimum of 40 adults is required for parties. For larger gatherings, their Valencia Room holds 200 guests and the Siana Room can accommodate up to 120.

There is no charge for children four and under, and children ages 5-11 are half price.

135 COOPER ST, AGAWAM, MA • THEFEDERALRESTAURANT.COM

65 RYE ST., SOUTH WINDSOR, CT • MANEELEYS.COM

17 THOMPSON RD., EAST WINDSOR, CT LANOTTE.COM

GOLOCALMAGAZINES.COM 51