Go Local | MAY 2018 by Go Local Magazine

May 2018 Volume 4 . Issue 6 golocalmagazines.com

4,000 miles later food from the heart welcome to the neighborhood

Where caring is the only thing that surrounds you.

“My claustrophobia wasn’t a problem during my MRI. They even let me listen to music.’’

OPEN MRI at Enfield 860.745.2288

OPEN MRI at Buckland Hills 860.648.4674 OPEN MRI of Glastonbury 860.657.2242 OPEN MRI of Middletown 860.346.7400 2 GO LOCAL MAY 2018

ACCREDITED BY AMERICAN COLL EG OF RADIOLOGY. E

m t.co c i r enm www.op

146 South Road Enfield, CT SnSandTarnow.com (860) 749-8008 We now carry

PRODUCTS

10% OFF

$10 OFF

Any Landscape and Hardscaping Service of $500 or more *Cannot be combined with any other offers. Expires 5/31/18

5 year warranty on hardscaping

A purchase of $50 or more *One coupon per customer per day. Cannot be combined with any other offers. Expires 6/30/18

Ask about our year warranty on trees and shrubs

Monâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;Fri Sat & Sun

8:00 AM to 6:00 PM 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM

GOLOCALMAGAZINES.COM 3

new this month MAY 2018 . VOLUME 4 . ISSUE 6

FOOD FROM THE HEART

FEATURE STORY >> 23

at Sarapes Sarapes has become one of the few places in New England to experience authentic Mexican food. Owned by the Chavez family, history is among the list of secret ingredients that goes inside each dish. More than a restaurant, it’s a legacy.

A NOTE

GO ON, YOUR SAY

4,000 MILES LATER

GO LOCAL PICKS

FARMING FOR THE COMMUNITY

From the Editor 15 Minutes of Fame With Brian Phelps

Specialty Garden Finds At Copper Hill Farm

BIG

SPRING

SALE MAY 4 –19 $ 15 OFF th

Any Regular Price Shoe – Special Orders Included

Comfort Shoes Big Y Plaza, 433 Center St., Ludlow 583-0374 Store Hours: Wed. & Fri. 9:30-5 • Thurs 9:30-5 • Sat. 9:30-3 4 GO LOCAL MAY 2018

new this month MAY 2018 . VOLUME 4 . ISSUE 6

LOCAL SNAPSHOT

GO Eat

Go Local Picks

Local flavor

New Growth

Spring Flings Salad

Canvas “Mom Bag,” Blueberry Avocado Smoothie and Premier Gourmet Dips The Kitchen

Welcome to the neighborhood

go local picks

go Explore

LOCAL SNAPSHOT

LOCAL EINSTEIN

FINAL COUNTDOWN

Celebrating 250 Years in East Windsor

Indian Cooking Classes Skyline Scenic Area

Find Humor

Test Your Knowledge 7 Homegrown Greenhouses

Ryan D. Jacque - Western Mass Pencil Artist Original Art and Commission Portraits

35 Monday & Tuesday

——ONLY——

FREE

Dinner Entrée Purchase any dinner entrée and 2 bar beverages and receive another dinner entrée FREE. Valid Monday & Tuesday only. Excludes holidays and special events. Higher price prevails. Cannot be combined with other offers. One per party. Expires 6/30/18.

ryanjacque.com |

ryan@ryanjacque.com

664 North Main St., East Longmeadow, MA

413-732-9300 | VillaNapoletana.com

GOLOCALMAGAZINES.COM 5

The fifth month of the year - a time when our world truly begins to bloom - has always been my favorite. As each leaf unfolds to bring color back into our world, the physical growth of our surroundings is a gleaming reminder that we’ve finally reached the other side. I feel like I’ve been writing about the onset of spring for months and finally, it has arrived. Serving as a bridge to summer, May is the season of verdant emergence to vibrant days. The first time you hear a symphony of peepers or that moment you notice a burst of blooms - each day is greeted with great expectation. It’s like every moment is special, something to hold onto. This month is punctuated with olfactory smells, evoking collections of my oldest memories, like the smell of lilacs, my favorite leggy-blossomed shrub that grew under my window as a kid. This time of year, naptime was always accompanied by these sweet-smelling purple flowers. Even now the thought of this fragrant cluster brings me right back to the gabled-pitched, seafoam green walls of my childhood bedroom. Even though the vibrant blossoms lasted just a few shorts weeks, their bright blaze was buoyed by the promise of change. That’s what this season is all about - growth, evolution, change - and our stories this month are indicative of this sentiment. We began in Enfield with the Chavez family, owners of Sarapes, an authentic Mexican restaurant straddling the Massachusetts and Connecticut border. We stopped in for a bite - where the secret ingredient is family history - and to learn about their upcoming expansion. In Somers, we stopped back in to visit Copper Hill Farm, a local organic operation surging with possibilities this new season. We also hit the road with Brian Phelps, learning about his 4,000-mile trip across America on a yard sale bicycle. In East Windsor, we took a farm and garden tour with the 250th Anniversary Committee, learning about the dozens of opportunities to take part in their semiquincentennial celebration this year. This month is a wonderful opportunity to reemerge into the community, so we offered suggestions for locally grown goods, trails to explore and restaurants to dine in. This 5th edition of 2018 represents the 42nd magazine that I have orchestrated as the editor of Go Local Magazine - the first was published in December 2014. I recently pulled out every issue created, carefully arranging them edge-to-edge across the worn hardwood slats of my dining room floor. Nearly encompassing the entire perimeter of the space that is rarely used for eating, the collection not only represented years of work, but also authentic connections to real people in our community. As I stared down at the smiles of local farmers, kiddos, cooks, families, makers and creators, I got a little wistful gazing at the faces looking back from my covers. Each served as a connection between where I’ve been and where I am today. The nostalgic wave felt bittersweet - mostly happy and energizing - but coupled with more than a tinge of sadness, knowing I had just one more cover to add to this collection. It’s with great confliction that I write my last editor’s note in Go Local Magazine, a pub-

6 GO LOCAL MAY 2018

EDITOR Amber Wakley

MANAGING EDITOR G. Michael Dobbs

PUBLISHER Dan Buendo

QUALITY CONTROL Carolyn Napolitan

PHOTOGRAPHY

Jacqueline Sidor . Tyler Whaley

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Stephanie Trombley . 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 signing off, holding with her the incredible journey that being editor of Go Local Magazine has provided.

lication that has been my “baby” for nearly four years. This experience has not only taught me about myself - about who I really am - but has shown me how to embrace the world around me and be inspired by the people that cross my path each day. It has been a lesson in what I can handle (the all-consuming, little-sleep on a deadline kind), and how meaningful it is to be a part of a team. While this eclectic array of stories has always represented an inspiring neighbor, they are also depictive of a hardworking bunch. Jacqueline Sidor has been the visual representation of this magazine since the beginning. While a personal friend from before our “Go Local days,” the collaboration of creating these pages has forged a partnership like never expected. Skirted by looming deadlines and off-the-cuff solutions to depicting a world in advance of reality, we’ve had our bit of “behind the scenes” debauchery. From bumpy rides through farmers’ fields in the bed of beat up trucks to dividing the plates of exquisite food on white linen - we’ve shared a lot. We’ve been dazzled by her talent and I’m so very thankful she has shared her unique perspective with us throughout the years. Amy White, one of our outstanding freelance writers, has also been a part of this team since early on. A ball of energy with an infectious laugh, she’s not only a connoisseur in the artistry of food, but also an aficionado for telling a good story. I’m particularly appreciative of the team at Reminder Publications, a group of folks that have graduated past colleagues to friends. In particular

- Carolyn Napolitan - my trusty “quality control officer” who meticulously proofreads each publication. Keeping me in line is no easy task and I am grateful for both her brilliance and humor. There’s sheer artistry in these pages and I’m equally as indebted to the incredible team of talented designers that are led by Art Director, Beth Thurber. Also, my “work wife,” who has made sure I’m wellfed, hydrated and sane when facing monthly deadlines - I love you! And finally - to you - the faithful readers of these pages. I’ve loved writing to you over the years, your kind words and appreciation have served as an inspiration. While my contributions to Go Local will dwindle, there’s no need to worry. I leave you in the hands of Stephanie Trombley, Carleton Whaley, Amy White and Tyler Whaley - each enthusiastic writers and photographers who share a love of local business, makers, and creators. Together, our team of contributors will continue to share all the amazing faces and facets of the community. Moving on is beyond bittersweet; I’ve become incredibly attached to the places, people and pages of this publication. This project has taught me to speak from the heart and embrace every bit of happiness from experiences and relationships that kindle healthy emotions. Listen to the stories of others, share compassion, and be authentic. Finding your life’s purpose is like a treasure hunt and I’m incredibly grateful to have included this adventure and opportunity on my preverbal map.

Now Oﬀering Photography

FREE

to our clients

Whether you are looking for a Realtor®, contractor, property manager, house sitter or someone to help with cleanouts and estate sales, the KW Cardinal Team and I are here to assist you. We will do whatever it takes.

WE BUY HOUSES TOO!

Please contact us for a free no obligation consultation. We are licensed in both Connecticut and Massachusetts .

Janice Kocot LaBroad | Associate Partner • Realtor • Investor

860.882.4969 GOLOCALMAGAZINES.COM 7

your say

BECAUSE EVERYONE DESERVES THEIR 15 MINUTES OF FAME

BRENDA

ALAN Blacksmith

KAREN Medical Research

DAN Engineer

ED Design Metallurgist

LAURA Doctor

What’s one thing your mom taught you?

Never spit

Don’t talk to strange women

Never write a check you can’t cash

Don’t get tattoos

We’re related to Elvis

Don’t kill your sister

What’s your ideal summer job?

Lifeguard on a beach

I love blacksmithing

Working at an ice cream shop

Bikini inspector

Best Condiment?

Mayo

Mayo-Ketchup

Mustard

Queso

Salsa

Mayo - and not Miracle Whip

Whose your favorite TV mom?

Bonnie Plunkett Mom

Reba McEntire Reba

Lorelai Victoria Gilmore Gilmore Girls

Marge Simpson The Simpsons

Lois Wilkerson Malcolm in the Middle

Joyce Summers Buffy the Vampire Slayer

Rocky Road

Rye Bread

Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough

Fudge Berry Swirl Fro-Yo

Vanilla

S’mores

Bocce Ball

Jarts

Horseshoes

Wisest Wizard

Jarts

Drinkin’ and burning stuff

Money

Sunsets

Time

Vinyl records

Money

Caramel chocolate

Chocolate chips

OG Salt

Butter & salt

Sweet, salty, spicy

Veterinarian Tech

Go-to ice cream flavor?

Which yard game are you playing first? If you could have unlimited anything, what would it be?

What’s your Spicy crushed favorite red pepper flakes popcorn topping? 8 GO LOCAL MAY 2018

A lifeguard for the cute suit, Flipping burgers in a go kart shack summer romance and killer tan.

LANDSCAPE DESIGN, INC.

SERVICES

413.219.4667

Servicing Western MA, Connecticut & Cape Cod

• landscape design & installation

• natural stone & paver walkways/patios

• bobcat & excavator services

• retaining walls & drainage systems

• irrigation & sod services

• garden maintenance, mulch & bed edging

• aeration, overseeding & hydroseeding

• perennial dead heading & dividing/splitting

• weekly maintenance & spring/fall clean-up

• pruning of shrubs & ornamental trees

• lawn, shrub & perennial fertilizing

• shrub transplanting & redesigning

www.avalanchelandscapedesign.com GOLOCALMAGAZINES.COM 9

Happy Mother’s Day!

413•566•8015 PIZZERIA & LOUNGE

Download the Gio’s App for updated entertainment and promotions! Like Us & Follow Us on Facebook!

1st place Winner CT Family Business Awards 2016

Order Online Simon G. Tom Kruskal Charles Garnier

Elle Galatea Gabriel & Co.

with the Gio’s App!

NHL & NBA

Playoffs! Come out, have some good times & watch a game with friends!

A Family Tradition of Fine Jewelry Since 1946

FREE Delivery to Hampden, Wilbraham, East Longmeadow, Sixteen Acres, East Forest Park and parts of Longmeadow, Enfield & Somers, CT!

98 Bridge St, East Windsor, CT • (860) 623-3916 www.swedesjewelers.com

Grinders • Giant Calzones • Seafood • Salads • Wings & More 9 Allen St. • Hampden Mini Mall • Hampden, MA (413) 566-8015

10 GO LOCAL MAY 2018

Open 7 Days | www.giospizzeria.com

! CARLETON WHALEY  T YLER WHALEY

hen I attended a reading of Fanny and Me, the story of author Brian Phelps’ 86-day bicycle tour across the country, I expected to hear tales of harrowing adventure. I expected a selfdetermined, goal driven narrative, a story, perhaps, about finding meaning in the hardship of the trail. What I experienced, instead, was something even more unique. At the beginning, Brian didn’t refer to the event as a reading, but rather an experiential memoir. Just as soon as he said that, he was bounding left and right across the floor, talking about his trip and bringing the audience right into each and every moment— GOLOCALMAGAZINES.COM 11

the hairpin turns on the bicycle, the freeway tunnel he thought he was going to die in on the second day—all of this and more, while actually yelling as loud as he must have during the events. It was a performance. Brian is a natural storyteller, and in the end, he didn’t need to have read from his book at all. Flipping through the pages it was clear that Brian’s personality was stamped firmly onto each one, and the tale of his voyage from coast to coast is not one that you can afford to miss. However, throughout the reading I was struck by the moments in between the hilarity and adventure. Brian said that, prior to his trip, he was experiencing “the trifecta of life.” “I hope you never have to go through it, but for me that trifecta was: losing my job, going through a divorce, and a close friend passing away.” All of this led Brian to ask a simple, but daunting question: “What have I done to make a difference?” For myself, I don’t usually go in for books like Fanny and Me. I’ve never cycled or hiked much of anywhere, let alone cross-country, so the genre doesn’t really appeal to me. Listening to Brian talk about it, however, I realized that this book was something different. It was a story that needed to be told because it was rooted deep in Brian’s humanity. For all of his comedic storytelling ability, there is a clear sense of being lost in his work, and it is that sense that I think drives people toward him. One interesting feature of the book is that Brian refers to Fanny, the bicycle, like a person. When I asked Brian why he thought he started to do this, he said “I don’t have a fast answer to that. I’ve never thought of why. Maybe it’s because I was so frustrated at the time. I needed an alter-ego to talk to, to project. One of the shrinks that I had been seeing said Brian, you have a very strong subconscious, and I think it was that subconscious that animated Fanny for me, and also put that idea in my head let’s travel across the country on a bicycle that you don’t have. It was my subconscious saying I needed to get out of Dodge, get my act together. That’s what I think.” It was interesting to hear Brian talk so frankly. The moment he stepped 12 GO LOCAL MAY 2018

on stage, he had an enormous personality, but talking one on one he settled into a quieter, more thoughtful mode. I asked how he viewed his “past self” that he referred to often throughout the reading, the version of him before the events of the book. “I haven’t really thought of a word to describe it. I’m very happy with my present life. Goose bump happy—like, right now I have goose bumps. It’s like I’m a totally different person, and that’s a good thing. Like I said earlier, my past was so limiting, so isolated from what I wanted. I just watched life go by without wanting to do something about it. I didn’t participate before, didn’t become active in my own life. I was so overloaded with payment of bills, my failing marriage, that I couldn’t step outside of that to do something. When I look back on that, I think I’m glad I’m not that person.” Whether it was meeting friendly motorcyclists or staring out across the waters of Glacier National Park, one thing that Brian continuously mentioned was that over 86 days he cried tears of joy almost every single one. “Every single day I was running into people, having experiences, and realizing stuff about myself that scared me, but also gave me goose bumps. The original name of the book was going

to be Wow and Beyond. It was like this revelation of Who am I, why am I getting these tears? They were tears of happiness. I was making friends, impressing people with how far I had been, and I would just think but I’m just Brian Phelps-laid off, divorced, living like a castaway, life spiraling downward—why are people responding to me like this?” Fanny and Me, in the end, becomes much less about the travels themselves, even though Brian’s original intent was to write a travelogue. In the end, it is about what you would expect. It’s written in the title. Fanny the bicycle, beat up, used, unsure of whether it would make it over 4,000 miles, was the perfect vehicle for someone like Brian, who never knew how much he could offer, or how much he already had. When reflecting back on the question that set him on this path, what he had done to make a difference, Brian said he now has a very different answer. “The answer now is that, surprisingly, I made a massive difference and impact on people. On the trip, and even before that, I never really realized it. The scary part is that I wanted to make a difference so badly, and I wasn’t expecting people to be so friendly and helpful and supportive of me. I never expected that they would make a difference for me.” Brian’s book is available for purchase at fannyandme.com

GOLOCALMAGAZINES.COM 13

OPENING MAY 1ST

Farm-to-Cone Ice Cream! Old-Fashioned Ice Cream Stand

LOCAL HARD ICE CREAM & SOFT SERVE

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).

Baked Goods Cider Donuts | Pies

Weekly pickups are right at the farm. 46 Bailey Road, Enfield, CT

540 Somers Road E. Longmeadow, MA for hours and directions visit theappleplace.net

413-348-9628

farmerb@easypickinsorchard.com Family Owned & Operated since 1951

(860) 763-FARM | Easypickinsorchard.com Brought to you by the Audiology Awareness Campaign®

Be a part of this FREE public service.

LISTEN UP AMERICA WEEK® National Hearing Screening Week

MAY 21st - 25th, 2018 FOR YOUR FREE HEARING SCREENING CONTACT:

Spring Specials! We specialize in stump grinding and in all types of tree work with special equipment - cranes to 110 ft. Fully insured. Free estimates. Free advice.

Call Robb Wallace

Over 40 yrs. experience in all phases of tree work!

413-782-8733

200 North Main St.• North Bldg., Suite 103 East Longmeadow, MA 413-525-7979 • www.hampdenhearing.com

wallacetree@gmail.com

LIVE MAINE

Realtor®, Licensed in MA & CT

3 Cold Harbor

413-221-4600 Cell Roger.Trombly@NEMoves.com

$ 99 LB.

SEAFOOD & MARKET

HOURS: WED., THURS., FRI. 11AM-6PM SAT. 10AM-2PM

465 TAYLOR ROAD • ENFIELD, CT 860.763.0522 COLDHARBORSEAFOOD.COM 14 GO LOCAL MAY 2018

Make Your Appointment Today!

Roger Trombly, CBR

STEAMERS

• Call ahead for larger quantities • Price subject to change • Fridays & Saturdays Only • Expires 5/31/18

THE FINEST HEARING CARE BY DOCTORS OF AUDIOLOGY

136 Dwight Road Longmeadow, MA 01106 Over 34 years of experience selling homes throughout Western MA & Northern CT ❛❛The finest compliment I can receive is a referral from past clients and customers. Thank you for your trust.❜❜ — Roger

go local picks

COOL STUFF JUST OUTSIDE YOUR DOOR

SPECIALTY GARDEN FINDS SPIELMAN'S CABIN HILL GREENHOUSES • CABINHILLGREENHOUSE.WEBS.COM 121 ELLINGTON AVENUE • ELLINGTON, CT • (860) 803-9585

With five greenhouses exploding with color and lush plants, it's hard to "pick" just one spring-inspired artifact at this westerly-facing garden oasis. Owned and operated by Gail and Earl Spielman, the two - with the help of just a handful of family members and close friends - have been growing their creative enterprise for twenty years. From classic arrangements to truly unique finds, each nook of the property serves as beautiful inspiration to spark green-thumb creativity. With warm demeanors and expert knowledge, the Spielman's start and raise everything on-site, evident from their array of extremely healthy topiaries, hanging baskets, tropical plants, succulents, vegetable andherb plants, and big beautiful blooms. More than just gorgeous growth, these greenhouses are packed with unique creations: planted pocketbooks and shoes, life-sized topiary animals, combination moss and cone shaped hanging baskets, planted garden chairs, tables, birdbaths and one-of-a-kind garden gifts! Simply a gorgeous visit, it's the perfect place to celebrate Mother's Day or ideal for laid back garden shopping in a beautiful country setting. Truly a fun stop, the property is also home to curious goats and playful pigs - bring the kids - but go quick! Spielman's is only open through early-June and this popular garden center tends to sell out quickly. Spielman's Cabin Hill Greenhouses is open Monday-Friday 9am-6pm and Saturday-Sunday 9am5pm.

GOLOCALMAGAZINES.COM 15

from the top of your head to the tips of your toes! • Full service salon offering hair extensions • Manicures & Pedicures • Massage Therapy & Reiki • Eyelash Extensions • Lash Tints • Lash Lifts

Cash and checks only

4 Simon Road | Enfield, CT 860.265.3334 | www.hairstudioatfourcorners.com

O u g r r n d Ye i 4 t 3 a r b e l e C ation on Vintage and Classic Auto ar

r of Resto

mobiles

––——————— E N F I E L D

———————–

AUTO RESTORATION Handcrafted service for foreign & domestic cars from 1900s-1980s

4 PRINT SHOP ROAD, ENFIELD, CT 06082 16 GO LOCAL MAY 2018

WWW.ENFIELDAUTORESTORATION.COM

860.749.7917

FARMING

! CARLETON WHALEY  T YLER WHALEY

hree years ago, Copper Hill Farm was a small pasture farm nestled at the top of a hill in Somers, CT. Today, there are still some similarities. The farm hasn’t grown much beyond its own borders, and it still has the same mentality of community-based outreach befitting a small, local farm. After that, however, a lot has changed. Driving up now, felled trees ring a parking lot and small trading outpost. The outpost itself, where customers can buy fresh vegetables and cured meats from Copper Hill, was built entirely from wood on the property. Much in the same way, owner Greg Hazleton is still as adamant as ever to utilize pasture farming: in effect feeding the soil, not the crops. With healthy soil the livestock and crops stay healthy, and it is a complicated system that Greg balances. With the addition of two new workers, as well as a chef, Greg has more time than ever to plan and pursue the future of Copper Hill. One of the most ambitious and exciting plans for Copper Hill is their plan to open “The Whole Hog,” a specialty charcuterie kitchen run by Greg and his friend Howard, a chef and charcuterie expert. “The idea is to further process anything that Greg raises,” Howard said, “whether it be pigs or pickles, vegetables, sausage, smoked meats. We can even do cooked products like pates, head cheese, guanciale, whatever Greg grows, we’re going to cook it.” Walking up the hill, past the farm stand and up to the farm proper, I GOLOCALMAGAZINES.COM 17

was astounded at the abundant life at the farm. Chickens ran amok in a large, penned field, and when one escaped Greg said “Oh, it’s ok, that’s just them telling me they’re ready to move.” Past the chickens was the large, red barn that will eventually become their kitchen, and white turkeys chased each other around it. In another barn were almost two dozen pigs, and again and again Greg would stop to point out some little thing that was possible only because of the generosity of those in the community. “These over here are spent grains from local breweries—that’s the main feed for the pigs. The breweries usually have to pay to have them disposed of because they produce so much, so it works out better for everyone if I take it off their hands. The grains here are from New Park Brewery, Hog River, and Cold Creek.” Greg is interested, above all, in helping to give back to the community through farmers’ markets and other community events. “It’s a really community-based place. For instance, the caretakers of Soapstone expressed interest in an event with the Farmers’ Market, to actually bring in farmers that need money during this time of the season-there’s like a two month break in the market for winter, and people need that income now. Bringing people in here like that is eye-opening for a lot of people who forget about that.” When I asked Greg more about what the biggest changes were in the last three years, he smiled and said, “Well, we had two kids.” We then met the rest of the Hazletons, including Greg’s wife Heather. Seeing them all together, it was clear that Copper Hill is more than a farm, it’s a home. With their large plans for reaching out to their neighbors, other local farms, breweries, and more, it’s clear that Copper Hill will soon be a home to more than just the Hazletons. In some ways, it’s already becoming a home for the entire community.

144 HALL HILL ROAD . SOMERS, CT FB.COM/COPPERHILLBEYONDORGANIC (860) 306-9604 18 GO LOCAL MAY 2018

Affordable Bathroom Remodeling Acrylic Tub Shower Wall Replacements Walk-in Showers & Handicap Showers Whirlpools • Walk in Tubs w/Doors Grab Bars • Towel Bars • Lighting Highmount Toilets & ADA Toilet Seats Handheld Showers & Shower Doors Vanity Tops, Bases & Faucets Tiled Bathroom Floors • Walls & Ceilings Plumbing • Painting Carpentry • Electrical

One Stop Does It All No Subcontractors Used Visit our showroom Deal with the owner 40 Years Experience

Quality Bathrooms • Fair Prices • Real Lifetime Warrantees Store 860-749-5112 • Owner’s Cell 860-573-7908

PECIALTY BATH REMODELING 585 Hazard Ave. (Rte.190) Enfield, CT (in the Scitico Plaza)

Your Local, Family Owned Kitchen Experts. Kitchen • Bath • Laundry • Home Office Quartz • Granite • Corian • Laminate FREE Design, In-Home Measuring & Estimates • Full Remodeling

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

ESTATE AUCTION EVERY THURSDAY AUCTION & EVENT CALENDAR MAY 2018

Kitchen Encounters offers friendly, local service. We will help you visualize your new kitchen or bath with our expert design service and we are ALWAYS a better value than the big box stores. You can trust Kitchen Encounters because our families are local, just like yours!

Visit Our Beautiful Showroom

Over 20 Years in Business!

15 RAILROAD AVENUE, WILBRAHAM 413-596-6535 | WWW.KITCHEN-ENCOUNTERS.COM

Thurs

May 3

Thurs

May 10

Thurs

May 17

Thurs

May 24

Thurs

May 31

5:30pm 6:00pm 7:00pm 5:30pm 7:00pm 5:30pm 7:00pm 5:30pm 6:00pm 7:00pm 5:30pm 6:00pm 7:00pm

Early Bird Auction Annual Antique Sale Estate Auction Early Bird Auction Estate Auction Early Bird Auction Estate Auction Early Bird Auction Coins Auction Estate Auction Early Bird Auction Jeff Braun Charity Auction Estate Auction

1000’s of pictures at www.goldengavel.com Email with questions goldengavel@att.net Or visit auctionzip.com and search our Auctionzip Auctioneer ID#: 2791

Terms: Cash, Checks, Master Card, Visa, Discover, Debit Cards. Subject to errors and omissions. 18% buyer’s premium, 3% discount for cash or approved check, all sales final.

GOLOCALMAGAZINES.COM 19

20 GO LOCAL MAY 2018

NEW GROWTH

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

New growth brings bursts of fresh flora to our landscape and serves as a beautiful example that life is a great big bundle of tiny treasures. Celebrate simple virtues. The warm sun, fresh air, the smell of dirt and energy of a thunderstorm embrace all the good spring will provide.

GOLOCALMAGAZINES.COM 21

Spielman's Cabin Hill Greenhouses Good Place - Good Feelings | Awe-Inspiring Planted Gifts | A Delightful Way to Garden...

Join us for our

Mother’s Day Drawing!

Open

April 27June 15 Dates may vary

–Gail & Earl Spielman

121 Ellington Avenue, Ellington, CT (860) 803-9585

Cash & Checks only • Look us up on Facebook • One mile from Kloter Farms

7RJHWKHU IRU (QƣHOG 7 RJHWKHU IRU (QƣHOG Together T oge ogether geth herr ffor or a rreason. or eason.

22 GO LOCAL MAY 2018

Planted pocketbooks & shoes, life size topiary animals, combination moss & cone shaped hanging baskets, planted garden chairs, vegetables, herbs, tropical plants & garden gifts. Spectacular mandevillas! Think BIG: think our GERANIUMS! THE largest selection of succulents. Want more? Stop & smell the flowers!

! AMY WHITE  J ACQUELINE M. SIDOR, JMS ART & PHOTO

ADBOVE, THE CHAVEZ FAMILY (L-R) “MAMA BERTA,” ROBERTO AND MARIA

n recent food writing, the term “authentic” has become taboo. The current thinking behind this is that most food in America isn’t truly “authentic,” as it is being served by people living here in America, people whose culinary tastes, techniques and even traditions have been influenced simply by living here. By default, the food has become “Americanized.” However, no other word can better describe Sarapes Restaurante, a hidden gem of an eatery in Enfield whose sign even reads “Authentic Mexican Food.” Currently located at 917 Enfield Street (Route 5) but soon moving approximately a quarter mile down the road to 95 High Street, Sarapes straddles the CT/ MA line, making it an ideal dining destination for the Go Local reader who is craving traditional Mexican. The restaurant’s name comes from the brightly GOLOCALMAGAZINES.COM 23

colored striped shawls worn throughout Mexico and Central America and which are used as festive tablecloths here. The High Street location will be the third iteration of Sarapes. The Chavez family opened the first one in Hartford back in 1999, a few years after husband and wife Eduardo and Cutberta (affectionately known as “Mama Berta”) moved from Mexico to America with their children. Daughter Maria says, “Dad brought all us kids here for a better life. He worked hard and really focused on that.” While the Hartford location flourished, the Chavez children found themselves working for other employers around their new hometown of Enfield. However, it was always Eduardo’s dream to open a restaurant closer to home and for the entire family to work there – a true family endeavor. He fulfilled that dream in 2002, and since then, Sarapes has become one of the few places in New England to experience authentic Mexican food. Family history is one of the secret ingredients that go inside every Sarapes dish. Mama Berta says she learned many of her recipes from the older women in her family, including her grandmothers and aunts as well as her mother-in-law. The Chavez family also possesses vast knowledge and experience with Mexico’s culinary specialties. As Maria tells it, “My father was from Oaxaca, Mexico, and my mother was from Veracruz. When they got together, they moved to Mexico City for some time, and then to Monterrey. So, all the food we make is from different regions of Mexico.” 24 GO LOCAL MAY 2018

One of those regional dishes is the house specialty mole poblano, chicken served in mole sauce, a dark, silky sauce richly layered with deep spices and seasonings. Berta says the sauce contains thirteen or fourteen ingredients including peppers, tomatoes, chocolate, raisins, plantains, cinnamon, sesame seeds, and many more. She adds that it takes a few days to make, starting with cleaning and roasting the peppers to adding the various components to grinding and blending the sauce to develop the flavor. She says everyone knows when they’re making the mole sauce because the restaurant smells so good inside. Mole is not only one of the house specialties at Sarapes, but it is also the dish most associated with Cinco de Mayo. This holiday, which takes place on May 5th, marks the anniversary of the Battle of Puebla when Mexico won an unlikely victory over France in 1862. It is the restaurant’s biggest holiday, and as such, they will be having celebrations at both the Enfield and High Street locations, including a special holiday menu featuring their famous mole poblano, chile relleno, fajitas and more, and musical entertainment from live mariachi bands. Everything at Sarapes, from the three types of salsa to the homemade flan, is made from scratch, in-house. The menu features several dishes not commonly found on a typical Tex-Mex or Mexican chain restaurant menu. Puerco di pipian is pork chops served in Mama Berta’s special pumpkin seed sauce. Another pork dish, puerco con nopales, is made with fresh cactus. Just like they did when they lived in Mexico, the Chavez family makes special dishes on weekends only, including menudo, a beef tripe soup, and pozole, a stew made with white hominy and chicken. Tamale Oaxacano is a dish from Oaxaca consisting of a banana leaf stuffed with chicken in a spicy red sauce. The restaurant is also known for its seafood soup made with fish, shrimp, mussels, octopus, clams and scallops. However, those looking for the more familiar will be happy to find popular favorites like tacos, burritos and enchiladas on the Sarapes menu as well. There are also many gluten-free and vegetarian options from which to choose. Breakfast items like huevos rancheros (sunnyside up eggs in ranchero sauce over tortilla chips) and chilaquiles (tortilla dipped in green salsa served with eggs) are available daily from 10 a.m. until noon. Their guacamole is so fresh that they don’t even open the avocado until the order is placed. In addition to a full liquor license, they offer several Mexican imported beer, wine, and specialty drinks like orchata fresca (made with rice, milk and cinnamon) and limonada fresca (freshly squeezed lime juice). For dessert, Mama Berta makes baked flan, churros and three-milk cake. Maria says customers come from all over Massachusetts and Connecticut, even from New York and New Jersey, to experience the authentic Mexican cuisine at Sarapes. She says, “People come here and feel like they’re in Mexico.” One customer, Jake Peterson of Suffield, says, “We come here all the time. We love the people and the food. We’re particularly partial to the chicken burritos, but really, it’s all good. We come here as often as we can.” The restaurant’s popularity forced the need for a bigger space with better parking. For that reason, they are in the midst of moving from

EDUARDO AND CUTBERTA

GOLOCALMAGAZINES.COM 25

FACEBOOK.COM/SARAPESRESTAURANT (860) 745-7781

Enfield Street to High Street. The move is bittersweet for the family, for the bigger, nicer location is something the family patriarch Eduardo would have loved to see. Unfortunately, he passed away in April of 2017. The family sorely misses him, as do many of the customers who used to come to chat with him over a cup of Mexican coffee brewed with cinnamon. One of the last things Eduardo did before he passed was to reprint the Sarapes menu, both in Spanish and English, including a special message of thanks from the family to its customers. Berta and Maria both share that sentiment. Their restaurant is not only Eduardo’s legacy, it’s their home, a place they’ve been running for almost thirty years. But they realize they owe much of their success to their customers. Maria says, “We really want to thank the town of Enfield and all the people from places around us for their really good support. Without our customers and the workers who do such a wonderful job for us, we are nothing.” Sarapes is open Monday-Thursday from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., Friday and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 9:30 p.m., and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. They are currently open for breakfast only at 95 High Street and for lunch and dinner at 917 Enfield Street, but will transition over to High Street in the upcoming weeks. The Chavez family hopes to see all their customers in the new location where they will keep serving the best authentic Mexican food around. 20 GO LOCAL FEBRUARY 2018

ENJOY THE EASE OF CONDO LIVING AND THE PRIVACY OF A SINGLE FAMILY HOME!

Live Life Simply

This 55+ community is set in a beautiful and relaxing woodland setting located in Enfield, CT. Conveniently located minutes away from I-91, shopping centers and a variety of dining options. Our home plans feature open concept layouts perfect for entertaining. Meacham Drive, Enfield, CT

CALL 413-304-3875 TO LEARN MORE! www.pecoy.com

GOLOCALMAGAZINES.COM 27

go eat

! RECIPE SUBMITTED BY AMY S. WHITE

Spring Fling Salad

2 cups spring lettuce greens (add some spinach if you like!) 1/4 cup sliced fresh strawberries 1/4 cup fresh blueberries 1/4 cup fresh or canned mandarin orange wedges Half of cucumber, sliced 2-3 tablespoons toasted almonds 2-3 tablespoons feta cheese 2-3 tablespoons poppyseed dressing

May has arrived, and with it, at long last, some spring-like weather. Put some spring in your step and on your plate with the healthful salad recipe which comes to you from LuAnn’s Bakery and Café in Ellington. Overflowing with berries, fruits and vegetables, this salad will satisfy your hunger and your tastebuds. It pairs best with LuAnn’s Poppyseed Dressing which is always available in the cooler at the bakery. Feel free to adjust the ratio of ingredients according to your taste. Recipe serves one.

LUANN HOFFMAN founded LuAnn’s Bakery in family farm’s home in Ellington in 1980. LuAnn built her business there for the next 37 years before opening the brick-and-mortar LuAnn’s Bakery and Café in 2017. The Café serves breakfast and lunch Monday through Saturday and also has a large selection of “take-and-bake” items along with their full line of delectable baked goods. It is located at 238 Somers Road in Ellington. www.luannsbakery.com 28 GO LOCAL MAY 2018

Greenhouse

NOW OPEN 7Days 8am-8pm

Visit Dzen’s Soft Serve Ice Cream NO MESS!

High Quality Mulch at the LOWEST Price in the Area!

Use as you need.

Red, Black, Brown or Natural Cedar

SAVE!

9 Bags = 1yard for $3799

Happy Mother’s Day!

Patio Now Open

Make Your Reservations Early Open for Lunch & Dinner Dine In or Take Out Friday Nights Live Entertainment Saturday Nights PRIME RIB

Native Honey • Potted Herbs Perennials • Flowers • Vegetable Plants Hanging Flower Baskets

Dzen Garden Market

546 Main St., Hampden, MA

187 Windsorville Rd. (5 Corners) Ellington, CT

413.566.1466

860.871.8183

Casabellarestaurant.net

Open 7 Days a Week 8am-8pm

Visit us at dzenfarms.com

HAPPY HOUR Tues.-Sun. 3-6 A NEW COLOR FOR

Happy Mother’s Day

Tues.-Thurs. 11:30-9 • Fri. 11:30-10 Sat. 12-10 • Sun. 12-9

Spring!

50% OFF HAIR CUTS

from

WITH ANY COLOR SERVICE With this ad. Offer expires 5/31/18

flowers and gifts

❦ Indoor & Outdoor Plants ❦ Fresh Flower Arrangements ❦ Gourmet Fruit & Gift Baskets

20% OFF HAIR PRODUCTS WITH A HAIR CUT With this ad. Offer expires 5/31/18

1052 East St. S., Suffield, CT 860.623.8774 | 888.710.5202 kandpflowers.com

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

de F resh Dai ly MaFor ! the Very Best in Donuts There’s Only One...

GERRY’S DONUTS

50 OFF!

We also repair ® and refinish your: SURFACE REFINISHING • Bathtubs & Tile Surrounds 541 Center St., Ludlow, MA • Tile Showers & Walls • Fiberglass Tubs & Showers 413-589-0769 Each Miracle Method franchise independently owned and operated. See more photos at: MiracleMethod.com

Complete countertop refinishing job (30 sq.ft. min.) One coupon per project Through 5/31/18. Cannot be combined with any other offers.

Miracle Method

GERRY’S DONUTS

“Eye Opener” Combo

“The Muffin Man”

“Donut Worry Be Happy”

$ 79

225

Your choice of donut, danish or muffin Coupon Expires 5/31/18

3 Muffins (Limit 2 Dozen) Coupon Expires 5/31/18

6 Donuts (Limit 2 Dozen) Coupon Expires 5/31/18

180 Windsorville Rd (5 Corners Plaza) Rt. 74 • Ellington, CT

180 Windsorville Rd (5 Corners Plaza) Rt. 74 • Ellington, CT GOLOCALMAGAZINES.COM 29

go local picks

COOL STUFF JUST OUTSIDE YOUR DOOR

CANVAS “MOM BAG” BOLD BY TINA • ENFIELD, CT FACEBOOK.COM/BOLDBYTINA • ETSY.COM/SHOP/BOLDBYTINA

Enfield native, Tina Nowinski, lives up to her shop’s slogan, “classic style, bold personality” with these handmade canvas diaper bag organizers. Who ever said motherhood couldn’t be stylish? Each bag is custom made with your choice of color and phrases. Paired with Tina’s makeup, bikini, and even men’s shaving bags, Tina’s creative designs are just the thing for spring organization. From humble roots to the world handcrafted artisans, Bold by Tina continues to grow and evolve with personalized custom creations ideal for Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, birthdays, besties, weddings, and milestones. From wristlets to wet bags (for swimsuits). each is 100% handmade, and comes in customized sayings, styles and designs.

BLUEBERRY AVOCADO SMOOTHIE THE SCOOP ICE CREAM CAFE • 18 CHURCH STREET • ELLINGTON, CT (860) 454-0996 • FACEBOOK.COM/THESCOOPICECREAMCAFE

The Scoop Ice Cream Shop in Ellington is mixing up the perfect snack for warmer weather. Standing by their pledge to serve nonGMO, all-natural treats, the new blueberry avocado smoothie is as healthy as it is refreshing. Made with blueberries, avocado, milk, agave and cinnamon, anyone can enjoy this guilt-free treat. While The Scoop is open year round, they’re gearing up for the best season ever, with new sundae concoctions, specialty funshakes, healthy energy-boosting smoothies, custom ice cream cakes of all sizes, cookies, pastries and so much more! The neighborhood scoop shop also features monthly craft days, birthday party programs, summer movie nights and live music. 30 GO LOCAL MAY 2018

NEW ENGLAND’S PREMIER GOURMET DIPS SIMPLY DIP-LICIOUS • 2341 BOSTON ROAD, UNIT A150 • WILBRAHAM, MA (413)519-5140 • SIMPLYDIPLICIOUS.COM • FACEBOOK.COM/PG/SIMPLY.DIPS

Simply Dip-Licious began seven years ago in search of creating the best tasting dips possible. Through a lot of hard work, and customer feedback, this Wilbraham-based business is happy to offer a selection of creative flavors. Versatile and easy, the gourmet-packed pouches are a range of sweet, spicy and savory. With endless combinations, these blends are sure to pull any chef out of a recipe rut. Barbecue season is here, they also make wonderful marinades and dry rubs for chicken, steak, pork or fish. With countless varieties, any dish will be the memorable star of the next picnic, party or potluck.

Residential & Commercial Washing

IT’S TIME FOR SPRING CLEANING!

BEFORE

DOES YOUR ROOF HAVE BLACK STREAKS OR GREEN MOLD? AFTER

With our Soft Wash methods, you’ll be the envy of all your neighbors!

SAFE FOR THE ENVIRONMENT THE LEADER IN ADVANCED POWER WASHING SINCE 1985

NOW OFFERING LOW PRESSURE ROOF WASHING!

860.872.2729 • 860.851.9432 RS RUNNING 3 YEA

www.mrtspowerwash.com COLONIAL ......................................... $325 2018 BASE HOUSE CAPE & RAISED RANCH .............. $225 WASHING RATES RANCH ............................................... $205

20 OFF

FREE ESTIMATES

10 OFF

ROOF WASHING

POWERWASHING

Some restrictions apply. Cannot be combined with any other offers/coupons. Offer valid through 5/31/18.

ABOUT US Mr. T’s Powerwash is a family owned and operated business with over twenty years of experience in the industry. We're based in Stafford, CT, but our service area includes most of North-Central Connecticut. We share a strong commitment to family values, and it comes across in the way that we do business. We always make an effort to treat customers as a part of our extended family - with courtesy and respect. We pride ourselves on our ability to provide high quality services at fair and competitive prices. One thing that helps us stand out from our competition is that we enjoy good conversation. We strive to answer every phone call personally, although that keeps getting harder as our business continues to grow. But rest assured, if you have to leave a message, WE WILL RETURN YOUR CALL at our earliest opportunity. We are happy to answer any questions you may have, and we will do our best to explain things in a manner that makes you feel comfortable to have us service your home, business, or property. GOLOCALMAGAZINES.COM 31

STEPHANIE TROMBLEY

THE KITCHEN

791 Williams Street . Longmeadow, MA . (413) 754-3770 . thekitchenlongmeadow.com

ust across the street from Big Y in Longmeadow, a place I called work for several years, stands a restaurant I only wish existed back when I was eating warm sandwiches on my break. When you don’t feel like cooking in your own, head over to the Kitchen, owned by Bobby Barkett. With the company of his warm wait staff, he’ll make you feel at home without the work. Setting out for a date, I recruited my sister, Brittany, with the promise of dinner. She happily jumped at the opportunity to devour a good meal together. Besides, I had been talking about wanting a classic hot dog for weeks. Upon first entering, the Kitchen is a warm and cozy place. Fairy lights decorate the walls, kitchen decor rests in every corner, and an expansive countertop creates a scene reminiscent of a classic diner. A large chalkboard reads “Welcome to the Kitchen: Made with Love.” And it’s clear that Bobby has put his heart into his work. When he wasn’t in the back grilling up dinner for patrons, Bobby was at booths, laughing and joking with guests and his wait staff. Kristen Brenner and Jessica Trapanese matched his bright smile with their own. There was a sense of comfort and relaxation in the atmosphere, something often hard to find in a short-order restaurant. Brittany and I have shared meals for over two decades. I trusted her opinion and knew she’d be the expert on a high quality dinner. We were far from disappointed. The menu includes items such as salads, sandwiches and seafood. It was hard to make a choice. She opted for the cajun fish tacos and cheese fries, while I kept it classic with a hot dog and fries. While the Kitchen does feature a vast variety of alcoholic beverages including Wormtown Brewery and Ballast Point Brewing Company India Pale Ale, we chose to keep our drink choices virgin. Unsweetened iced tea and a can of Coke paired with our meals just fine. The tacos had a slight kick, with fresh fish tossed in spices

32 GO LOCAL MAY 2018

(L-R) JESSICA TRAPANESE, BOBBY BARKETT & KRISTEN BRENNER

and topped with fresh vegetables. Just as I had hoped, the bun to my hot dog arrived warm and grilled. It’s safe to say my craving was fulfilled. After all of the warmth, we were ready for a cool treat, and chose the ever-timeless twist soft serve in a dish. The perfect, creamy way to end a delicious dinner time. Throughout the visit, hungry Longmeadow residents ranging from children to elders stopped in for a bite, showing just how simple it is to enjoy the Kitchen no matter who you are. As we laughed and lost track of time, the Kitchen reminded my sister and I what it was like to enjoy food together. We are already planning our next trip for their famous breakfast.

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

R EE P FR

4 Prospect Hill Road East Windsor, CT

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

BOOK YOUR BRIDAL PARTY FITTING!

OFESSIONAL BRA FITTI

NG !

635 Main Street • Somers, CT

413.244.5731 thebraladies.com

Schedule your appointment online or by phone. Your privacy is important to us!

MENTION THIS AND AND GET 5% OFF YOUR PURCHASE! GOLOCALMAGAZINES.COM 33

However big or small your property, our wide selection of equipment, implements and attachments has got you covered! And with full service and parts departments, we will keep you up and running.

Family Owned and Operated Since 1984

Stanton Equipment 105 S. Main St., (Rt. 5) East Windsor, CT • 860.623.8296 • 800.842.8968 • www.stantoneq.com 34 GO LOCAL MAY 2018

FRONT (L-R) CEIL DONAHUE, NANCY MASTERS, IRIS NEILL, IAN NEILL. BACK (L-R) CINDY BIRMINGHAM, JESSICA VOGELGESANG

estled just near Ellington and Windsor Locks lies East Windsor, a town rich in history and pride from those who keep it closest to heart. Pride was the best way to sum up their town for Nancy Masters, Ian Neill, Jessica Vogelgesang, and Ceil Donahue, who have dedicated their time to their town in their own ways. Surrounded by an abundance of historical items, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s evident that the East Windsor 250 committee treasures their home more than any object. Meeting at one table at the Historical Society, the team gathered to discuss their work. Watching their laughter, jokes and smiles make their rounds in the room, it is evident that the East Windsor 250 committee is not just preserving the past, but that they have become great friends. The East Windsor 250 committee is composed of a small group of residents, all with one goal: to throw East Windsor an honorable 250th anniversary celebration. Collaborating with local farms, restaurants, gardens and homes, they are accomplishing just that. Throughout the summer of 2018, East Windsor residents and neighbors will have the opportunity to attend several events

! STEPHANIE TROMBLEY ď&#x2020;&#x203A; J AQUELINE M. SIDOR, JMS ART & PHOTO

honoring the town. Among these events is a Special Town Meeting to open the Bicentennial Time Capsule (May 19), a Revolutionary War Reenactment & Food Truck Festival (June 16), and the Farm, Garden and House Tour (June 9). In keeping with their devotion to their town, proceeds from the Farm, Garden, and House Tour will be donated to the several local businesses who are contributing support to the event. The GOLOCALMAGAZINES.COM 35

upcoming activities are wholly nonprofit. In addition to their dedication to the approaching festivities, their efforts shine throughout the Historical Society location at 155 Scantic Road. A series of buildings surround the property including the East Windsor Academy building, the Broad Brook Barber Shop, East Windsor Probate Court, and two barns. Located in each of these buildings is a plentiful story told by documents, technology, clothing items and weapons spanning East Windsor’s grand past. While they are gifted copious amounts of artifacts frequently, they have expertly organized the museums by category. Each room tells a fascinating tale of East Windsor history. Perhaps you are interested in testing out an old fashioned typewriter. Maybe you’re interested in observing hundreds of arrowheads. No matter what fascinates you, walking into the museum is like stepping into an East Windsor history book. While this committee was formed to ensure East Windsor is honored properly across several events, each member adds their own personality to the town that has made volunteering so special to them. Take for example Ceil Donahue, who recently released East Windsor’s own chapter in the Images of America book series. In collaboration with Jessica Bottomley, the incredible overview of East Windsor history can now be found at the historical society and local library. A grand accomplishment, Ceil was just the person for the job, as East Windsor has always been close to her heart. Her uncle was a town historian whose written material was found in town libraries and in her home. She also married a young man from Broad Brook. Ceil states, “We have a proud heritage. East Windsor is a cool town. We have to show how wonderful these people were that made this town. How hardworking, how dedicated.” Nancy Masters, whose home is a part of the upcoming Farm, Garden and House Tour, has her own ties to East Windsor that power her passion to volunteer. At the Solomon Ellsworth House at 312 Rye St, the first dinosaur bones in North and South America were found in 1818 while a well was being constructed. Nancy is happy to call 36 GO LOCAL MAY 2018

this 1757 house her home. As we walked through the Historical Society Museum, it was clear that Nancy has spent a great deal of time learning about the rich culture that surrounds the town. Nancy shared with the group that she believes the statement on the East Windsor 250 poster sums up their work the best. The poster reads, “A family event celebrating the cultural diversity of East Windsor with its rich heritage, agricultural farms, gardens and historical houses.” And a family event it is. Whether you’re into vibrant flowers, classic John Deere tractors, or fluffy animals, you won’t complete the tour with disappointment. Ian Neill has ensured residents are in the know about the many upcoming events hosted by the East Windsor 250 committee by creating all press releases. Volunteering was important to him for a simple reason: “I wanted to make the tour happen.” And that he has. Sharing that he is fascinated by several of the homes he’s heard about in East Windsor, his assistance will ensure that not only he, but all residents get to enjoy beautiful landscapes, agriculture and homes. One aspect of their town all members agreed made it so special is the heritage. Ian shared, “It’s a small town and small group of people involved in everything. It’s wonderful to see that the last names on the street signs match those of my neighbors.” Ceil included, “It’s so many generations. I had to write the book because all of the villages of East Windsor are so different, but all became one.” As deep as the roots run in the East Windsor 250 committee, they are always welcoming to anyone who chooses to bask in the rich culture and beauty of the town. Volunteers are always invited to come forward for jobs big and small. As Nancy puts it, “We’re on the opposite sides of town but, Ian is my neighbor. Everybody is my neighbor. Whenever I see someone new, I pull into their driveway just to say ‘Welcome to the neighborhood,’ and you can do that here!” Will the work of the East Windsor 250 committee end with their planning of summer events? To hear them speak of their heritage, their job will never be done. One of the future projects for the Historical Society include a tobacco shed paying homage to East Windsor’s history as a producer of the plant. As Nancy states, “We are an unpretentious little town. We all have pride. We know we have a treasure, and that takes a lot of work. It’s so special. I envision a lot of growth over the coming years.” Ceil adds “Politics change, but history stays.” No matter how much East Windsor grows, some classic aspects will always stay the same. Whoever said change was necessary? This is a job they have opened their hearts to, and it is a job well done. For more information about the East Windsor Historical Society and their future events, or to volunteer, visit ew250.com

115 SCANTIC ROAD EAST WINDSOR, CT SATURDAY 9 AM TO 12 PM EW250.COM

GOLOCALMAGAZINES.COM 29 37

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

860.749.7365 | 413.525.3916 www.mtsne.com

38 GO LOCAL MAY 2018

go local picks

COOL STUFF JUST OUTSIDE YOUR DOOR

INDIAN COOKING CLASSES MALA'S INDIAN COOKING CLASSES • (413) 543-1138 • (413) 885-7272 MALAINDIANCOOKINGCLASS.COM • MALAINDIANCOOKING@HOTMAIL.COM

Nutritionist and chef, Mala Patel, helps guide and refine culinary repertoires, creating homemade, multi-course Indian feasts during her classes. Combining comprehensive demonstrations with hands-on cooking experience, balanced with an insightful understanding of the benefits of Indian cuisine and its relationship to good health. Mala grew up cooking alongside her mother, Jaya Patel, in Midwestern part of India, where she loved concocting new varieties of favorite dishes. She credits her mother with teaching her "pre-prepa-rations," - such as chopping and freezing garlic, ginger and green chilies for future use , she also learned a practical and flexible approach to cooking.

Experience the world of Indian cooking where Indian food comes to life with flavors! Upcoming classes include: Introduction to classic vegetarian/vegan cuisine (introductory class), classic non-vegetarian cuisine, Mughlai feast (chicken tikka masala), and street side favorites from India. In addition to her public classes, she offers private-personal and group lessons, an employee incentive and team building class, cooking parties, birthday parties and youth classes. Visit her website for pricing and monthly schedule! Mala's Indian Cooking Classes take place at the Wilbraham Inn, 2009 Boston Road in Wilbraham, MA. GOLOCALMAGAZINES.COM 39

! AMBER WAKLEY  

JMS ART & PHOTO MD ART & PHOTOZ

SKYLINE SCENIC AREA SOMERS, CT As mild temperatures settle in and shades of green have exploded onto otherwise barren branches, so does my desire for adventure. Like many, the first hints of warm weather bring a welcomed anxiousness to get outside - and I’ve spent winter cataloging a list of amazing places to explore, like the Skyline Scenic Area. More often than not I tend to hit the trail alone – with the exception of my dog - using my much-needed time in the woods as a quiet respite to settle my otherwise noisy head. But sometimes a jaunt in nature is best shared with friends…and furry friends! We convened at the trailhead, a very tight parking area (four spots at best) located on the north side of Stafford Road about 0.2 miles west of the intersection with Root Road. A grey, well-weathered sign designates the trail as a Northern Connecticut Land Trust property, a non-profit, open space protection group. The Mission of the Trust is to preserve the natural resources of the northern Connecticut region including agricultural land and other ecologically important open space. They currently protect 1,600 beautiful acres in Andover, East Windsor, Ellington, Enfield, Somers, Stafford, Tolland and Vernon. Some of their more notorious properties include the Scantic Riparian Area and the Shenipsit Woods, a parcel abutting Shenipsit State Forest that serves as a connector to the Soapstone Mountain Blue Blazed Trail.

elevation, offering an occasional reprieve from the upward climb. Just after the trail bends back down the hill, you’re greeted by the property’s namesake, a panoramic view across the Connecticut River Valley (at least while the trees are still bare), revealing both natural and manmade landmarks. We stopped, basked in the sun and watered ourselves and the dogs. These are the moments I truly appreciate and why I enjoy hiking with others – the opportunity to share a beautiful view and a couple laughs with good friends. The impromptu exploration was on the heels of our monthly photoshoots, but Jackie and I decided to come around from the other side of the camera to share our journey. The day served as a final anecdote to our many adventures over the years, undeniably making the faint view of Mount Greylock a little bittersweet (if you haven’t read page 6, you might want to flip backward). As we completed the last ½ mile – a much more treacherous, rocky section – I knew this wouldn’t be the end of our joint-adventures. Rather, the opportunity to carve a new path and explore unchartered territory. To learn more about the Skyline Scenic Area or properties and events of the Northern Connecticut Land Trust, visit northernctlandtrust.org

The property borders Hampden and I’ve driven by the sign countless times over the years, always curious to explore the scenic overlook. So, we set out on the trail, a well-beaten path marked with yellow plastic diamonds. The 1.5-mile loop is steady and sometimes rocky with a steep incline. However, the effort was a welcomed workout and for the first time in a while, I actually felt warm outside without a pile of layers. The trail splits early on, we headed right, an easier tract than heading to the left (there’s a lot of interconnecting foot trails along the way, be sure to stay cognizant of the markers). The mile-long section varies in 40

Pell Farm Nursery

10% OFF Expires 5/20/18

Arborvitae • Hemlock Shrubs • Shade Trees Flowering Trees

NEW SPRING MENU! 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

MONDAY NIGHTS Half Price Pizza in our Lounge Dine-in only 4-10

LOUNGE SPECIALS Tuesdays

OPEN FOR LUNCH

Pop Up Taqueria

Enjoy Authentic Mexican! Tuesday thru Sunday $ 95 11:30 am - 4:00 pm 3 Tacos .......................... 5

MANGIA MANGIA

WEDNESDAYS

Quesadilla .....................$695 Mucho Nachos.............$795 Thursdays

$ 95

Specialty Burgers

Choice of Pastas and Sauces, Salad & Rolls

3 special burgers featured every week

$ 95

Try one with the Weekly Beer Special!

BOOK YOUR NEXT FUNCTION WITH US!

92 Kibbe Grove Rd., Somers, CT 860.265.6511 • pell-farms.com

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

Visit our website: lacucinahampden.com

“We Gotta Key for That!” Car, Truck, Boat, Motorcycle, Padlock, Cessna, Gumball Machine… Whatever it is! We can make it.

Serving Northern CT & Western MA

Siding • Roofing • Windows Since 1920 Somers, CT

Yep – we gotta key for that! License #0502206

LOCKSMITHS

100 Off

Let us make you the Starr of the neighborhood.

977 St. James Ave., Springfield, MA 732-8538 • www.servulocksmiths.com

Your order of $1000 or more

Free Estimates • Licensed & Insured CT Reg. LCK161

with this coupon Offer expires 11/30/18

www.hastarr.com

Let Me Help You

BUY, SELL or INVEST in Real Estate.

Johnny’s Roadside Market Garden

Our Greenhouses Are Open!

“Energetic & Grateful”

Route 192, 336 North Maple Street, Enfield, CT

CHRIS Buendo

REALTOR® –

Celebrating 69 Years of Our Family Farm!

Licensed in MA & CT

575.9266

413

Chris@ResultsBegin.com www.ResultsBegin.com

LARGE SELECTION OF: Flowering Annual Plants Hanging Plants Vegetable Plants • Herbs Patio Tomatoes

June 28 – Fresh Produce! Open Daily 9am-6pm • Sun. 10am-5pm www.johnnysroadsidemarketgarden.com GOLOCALMAGAZINES.COM 41

Make Mom Feel Special om Head to Toe

A Spa Package is the perfect gift! Package includes: Essential Wellness Facial, Aromatherapy Back Massage, Scalp Massage and Foot Reflexology... 2 Hours of Pure Pampering!

only

125*

*Cannot be combined with any other offers. Offer good through June 30, 2018.

7 Magauren Drive, Suite #4, Stafford Springs, CT (Stafford Professional Suites behind Johnson Memorial Hospital)

860-684-1158 H.R. Wellness Spa www.HRWellnessSpa.com Gift Cards are available at the spa for any amount. Canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t get to the spa? Instant customizable gift certificates are available on our website, can be downloaded to bring or emailed directly to your loved one.

42 GO LOCAL MAY 2018

 JACQUELINE M. SIDOR, JMS ART & PHOTO

FIND HUMOR

Live life happily and take the world - and yourself - a little less seriously. There’s nothing better than laughing in life, especially when it doesn’t seem possible. Enjoy the good vibes and let the bad ones free. It’s the season of bloom, so don’t be afraid to show your true colors (even if it looks a little ridiculous).

GOLOCALMAGAZINES.COM 43

The

Growth Company

167 Hazard Ave., Enfield, CT ❦ (860) 749-9237 ❦ (800) 594-9516

Now Visit Us Online at www.thegrowthco.com “WE DELIVER LOCALLY AND WORLDWIDE”

OPEN DAILY 8am-6pm

Mother’s Day Fresh Arrangements

Memory Lamps • Gourmet Food Gifts • All-Occasion Specialty Baskets

$29.99 & up Annuals, Perennials, Hanging Plants, Tropical Plants & much more! COUPON

$5.00 OFF ANY PURCHASE OF $30.00 OR MORE Valid with this coupon only, excludes fresh floral arrangements. One coupon per visit, cannot be combined with other coupons. Expires 5/31/18.

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

111 Main Street, Somersville, CT 860.265.2282 Delivery to most area towns, including Massachusetts

Open Tue., Wed., Thurs., Fri. 10-6 Sat. 10-4

www.somersvillagegifts.com

ENFIELD PAINT 401 Enfield Street • Enfield, CT

860-745-3721 enfieldctpaint@gmail.com

OFF

Order of $15 or More Pick-up only. Cannot be combined with other offers. Expires 5/31/18. 112 Pearl St. • Enfield, CT • 860.741.3679 • 860.741.3670 www.enfieldpizza.com

All Homemade with The Freshest Ingredients!

10% OFF purchase of $25 or more

Hours: M-F 7:30-5:30 Sat 8-3 • Sun closed

The Perfect Gift for For the month of May the PFAFF Passport 2.0 is on sale for only

499!

56 Shaker Road, East Longmeadow, MA

(413) 525-4789

www.quiltsandtreasuresinc.com 44 GO LOCAL MAY 2018

local einstein

TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE - NO GOOGLING!

WHAT WAS THE FIRST ANIMATED SERIES MADE FOR PRIME-TIME NETWORK TV?

WHICH PRESIDENT MADE MOTHER’S DAY AN OFFICIAL HOLIDAY IN THE U.S.?

[A] The Flintstones [B] Felix the Cat [C] Scooby-Doo [D] The Simpsons ON MAY 21 OF WHAT YEAR DID CHARLES LINDBERGH LAND IN PARIS, COMPLETING THE FIRST SOLO FLIGHT ACROSS THE ATLANTIC OCEAN?

HOW LONG DID THE HUNDRED YEARS’ WAR LAST? [A] 100 years [B] 86 years [C] 99 years [D] 116 years

[A] 1929 [B] 1932 [C] 1925 [D] 1927

WHO WROTE THE FAIRY TALE “THE UGLY DUCKLING?”

IN WHAT COUNTRY CAN YOU VISIT MACHU PICCHU? [A] Peru [B] Chile [C] Uruguay [D] Bolivia

WHAT IS A PADEMELON?

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

THE ORIGINAL NAME OF WHICH BOARD GAME TRANSLATED MEANS “SPARROW?”

[A] An Italian musical instrument [B] A small marsupial [C] An exotic fruit [D] A straw hat

WHICH STATE OUTLINE IS SHOWN HERE? [A] Wisconsin [B] New Jersey [C] Idaho [D] Illinois

Hans Christian Andersen Aesop Roald Dahl Brothers Grimm

[A] Ouija [B] Mahjong [C] Yahtzee [D] Jenga

# CORRECT

RANK

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

160 110 50 3

Prodigy Egghead Meh Simpleton

ANSWERS:

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

[A] George Washington [B] Woodrow Wilson [C] Theodore Roosevelt [D] James Monroe

GOLOCALMAGAZINES.COM 45

The Final Countdown

7 Homegrown Greenhouses After what seems to be the longest, coldest and snowiest winter New England has seen in decades, it’s time to fulfill the statement “April showers bring May flowers.” What

better way to do so than to visit greenhouses in full bloom? We’ve compiled a list of local places to get lost in a floral wonderland.

GARDEN’S DREAM

355 TAYLOR ROAD • ENFIELD, CT GARDENSDREAM.COM • (860) 835-6652 If you’re looking for alluring annuals, perfect perennials, and vibrant vegetables, look no further than Ben and Barb Lupien’s selection of garden goods at Garden’s Dream. With a vast selection of herbs and crisp vegetables, there’s plenty to explore. Open 9:00-6:00 daily.

REVAY’S GARDEN & GIFTS

266 NORTH ROAD • BROAD BROOK, CT REVAYSGARDENS.COM • (860) 623-9068 Head over to Revay’s Garden & Gift Shop, where there are hundreds of colorful flowers to explore, and the gardens are blooming. Among a plethora of flowers, be sure to check out the Revay’s expansive fairy garden and even build one of your own! Open 9:00-5:00 Mon.-Sat., 10:00-5:00 Sundays.

GRAZIANO GARDENS

280 ELM STREET • EAST LONGMEADOW, MA GRAZIANOGARDENS.COM • (413) 525-6137 Breathe life into springtime with the stunning floral options offered by Graziano Gardens. Graziano has everything you need to prepare for summer cookouts with kitchen herbs, vegetable plants, and the supplies to start a garden right at home. Open 9:00-8:00 Mon.-Sat., 9:00-7:00 Sundays. 46 GO LOCAL MAY 2018

MEADOWBROOK FARM

185 MEADOWBROOK ROAD • EAST LONGMEADOW, MA MEADOWBROOKFARMMA.COM • (413) 525-8588 Meadowbrook Farm’s selection of stunning flowers is sure to spark your green thumb this spring. If you’re looking for a gardening snack, Meadowbrook offers pick-your-own strawberries every June, so you can take home your own piece of the farm. Open daily 8:00-7:00.

PELL FAMILY FARM

92 KIBBE GROVE RD • SOMERS, CT PELL-FARMS.COM • (860) 265-6511 Pell Family Farm is the place to visit not only for farm-grown trees and flowers, but for great fun. A visit to Pell guarantees farm animal sightings, and delicious all-natural berries. Open daily 7:30-4:00.

GOODYEAR FARMS

676 MOUNTAIN RD • SUFFIELD, CT BUSHYHILL.COM • (860) 668-4086 Family owned and operated for over 20 years, growing over 3,000 hanging baskets, 600 patio planters, 4,000 geraniums, 10,000 mums! Explore an assortment of annuals, vegetable starts, herbs and various container plants. From April-June and late September-October.

FOSTER HILL FARM & GARDEN

21 STAFFORD STREET • STAFFORD, CT FOSTERHILLFARMANDGARDEN.COM • (860) 729-6310 Offers a wide variety of expertly grown plants, flowers, vegetables, herbs, succulents and more. Peruse the unique garden selection - including 60 varieties of heirloom and specialty tomatoes - and then visit with their herd of miniature donkeys! Truly a special place in a quaint, country setting! Open seasonally, 9:00-6:00.

How do you Mac?

Fresh Food Made to Order Ask us about catering! Hours: 7am-3pm Breakfast served until 11am 117 Hazard Avenue â&#x20AC;¢ Enfield, CT 860-749-0813

GOLOCALMAGAZINES.COM 47