August 2023 BEST OF WINNERS ANNOUNCED!

And here are Best of NCN winners, with 6 Hall of Famers

By Laura B. Hayden

Through its 21 years of publication, the North Central News has spotlighted the venues, retailers, and professionals that serve its multitown community.

Its annual Readers Poll, taken every June and July, asks you — the

consumers, customers, and clients of area businesses — to weigh in on which of these vendors offer the “best of” essential services.

Special thanks to this year’s ballot and title sponsors: MGM Grand Springfield, Kent Financial Services, Earthlight Technologies, Stafford

Mechanical Services, The Barnyard and The Geryk Team, respectively.

This year an unprecedented six businesses have been inducted into the NCN Hall of

Photo

Best Of Best Of

The Hall calls for these 6 businesses

By Laura B. Hayden

When a business achieves the “best of” distinction in the Readers Poll for at least five years it is awarded the NCN Hall of Fame Award. This year an unprecedented six north central Connecticut businesses qualified for the NCN Reader’s Poll Hall of Fame Award. Congratulations to:

BEST GYM Anytime Fitness

95 S Road, Somers 860-265-3009

89 West Road, Ellington 860-871-1234 anytimefitness.com

At Anytime Fitness in Somers and Ellington, the support starts the moment a client enrolls. Its coaches develop a plan that fits the individual — a total fitness experience designed around abilities, body type, and goals. And there is 24-hour access to the gym. You can get a pass to try this Hall of Fame winner’s services for

free by going to www.anytimefitness.com/ try-us-free/ ?club=1138. This offer is limited to local residents and new customers.

BEST OPTOMETRIST

Emily Eye Care

139 Hazard Ave. Building 1, Unit 1 & 2 Enfield 860-749-1233 emilyeye.com

The North Central News Celebrates Its Hall of Famers!

2014 - Kent Financial Services

2015 - Sonnys Place

2016 - Geisslers Markets | Bolles Motors Best

2017 Lori Speilman Landscaping

2018 - Budget Blinds

2019 - Johnson Memorial Hospital

2020 - The Barnyard

2021 - Vernon Pool ls

2022 - Basils, Dannys, Cold Harbor, Bobby V’s

2023 - Kathy Geryk, Trend 2000, Dr. Je昀rey P. Thompsen, Emily Eye Care, Anytime Fitness

Emily Eye Care, with Drs. Lily Yeh (owner) and Aaron Lewis (in photo), has the vision to provide individualized attention to each patient.

Emily Eye Care has long been dedicated to optimizing its patients’ vision by offering a full range of eye health services to clients of all ages. Individualized attention is the foundation of its care, to ensure that each patient’s eyes remain healthy.

Dr. Lily Yeh, the owner, has been a repeated favorite in NCN Readers Polls, qualifying her practice for this year’s Hall of Fame Award.

BEST CARDIOLOGIST

Dr. Jeffrey Thompsen

15 Palomba Drive, Suite 2 Enfield (860) 253-9950

trinityhealthofne.org

According to NCN readers, your heart is in good hands with Dr. Jeffrey Peter Thompsen, a health care provider primarily located in Enfield and affiliated with Johnson Memorial Hospital in Stafford where he is chief of cardiology. Thompsen has 24 years of experience with specialties including cardiovascular disease.

Dr. Thompsen’s most current review on Yelp describes him as “knowledgeable and friendly and always helpful.” Now a NCN Hall-of-Famer, the good doctor speaks English and Spanish and is accepting new patients.

BEST REAL ESTATE AGENT

Kathy Geryk

RE/MAX Destination

44 Hyde Ave. Vernon 860-573-4850

kathygeryk.remax,com

According to the National Association of Realtors, there are 19,162 Realtors in Connecticut. Considering our north central area is one of six regions, we could say, roughly speaking, at least 3,000 work in the NCN readership. And now —based on this year’s NCN Readers Poll (drumroll please) — Kathy Geryk has been (once again) singled out as the best in the region — and a most worthy recipient of the NCN Hall of Fame Award. No question about it, for home sweet home buying and selling, NCN readers continue to count on Kathy Geryk. As an agent and neighbor, she can help you through local housing market nuances.

HALL/Page 5

Dr. Jeffrey Thompsen has 24 years of experience with specialties including cardiovascular disease, and that’s just one reason readers have made him an NCN Hall of Famer.

Photo by Joshua Esan

Photos by Joshua Essan

Best Of Best Of

Real estate agency, plumber round out Hall

Continued from Page 3

BEST REAL ESTATE AGENCY

Trend 2000 Real Estate

171 Elm St. Enfield

860-841-1199

Trend2000.com

Based on the realtor statistics that were cited previously, being chosen the Best Real Estate Agency in the region is a mighty fine testament to happy-everafter home sales.

Once again, NCN readers chose Trend 2000 Real Estate in Enfield for this honor — for the fifth time — landing it a Hall of Fame Award.

Whether you are new to the market or an experienced investor,

By Laura B. Hayden

Best Place to Buy a New Car Gale Toyota

50 Palomba Drive Enfield 860-269-3608

galetoyota.com

For more than 50 years this family-owned business has provided customers with great cars and service. Gale strives to build a longlasting relationship with every sale.

Best Place to Buy a Used Car Supreme Auto Service Center 68 South Road Somers 860-763-0831

owner George Heineman and his cadre of 11 agents are ready to assist your listing, viewing, and closing needs.

BEST PLUMBING

Homestead Comfort

100 West Road, Unit 2 Ellington 860-791-3166

homesteadcomfort.com

The word “comfort” in this familyowned business’ name says all you need to know about the deep understanding it has

of its customers and their needs.

Over 30-plus years, Homestead Comfort has become a one-stop-shop for heating, cooling, plumbing, water, and energy projects and emergencies.

Pleased homeowners have given it a 4.9 out of 5 star review on Google, with recent accolades about Homestead’s capability, efficiency, and professionalism.

It’s no wonder that this mainstay has earned a Hall of Fame distinction among North Central News readers

Best Place to Rent a Car Bolles Motors Rental 84 West Road Ellington 860-875-2595

bollesmotors.com/rentals

Why not fit everyone in one big

rental car for your next family excursion?

Bolles offers rentals starting as low as $50 a day (plus taxes and fees). Many options include weekly rentals and several different makes and models that are available.

If you are in the market for a new

supremeautosc.com

Supreme Auto Service offers a wide selection of quality used cars you can trust. You can be sure each vehicle has been thoroughly inspected to guarantee you a top-notch car.

George Heineman’s Trend 2000 is among the newest entries into the Hall of Fame.

Photo by Joshua Esan

On-the-go NCN readers keep their vehicles in tip-top shape with these vendors.

set of used wheels, Larry Pettit and the crew at Supreme Auto are considered the go-to folks for taking care of your needs.

Photo by Joshua Esan

Thanks for voting us

Best Educational Area Attraction

#1 in the North Central Readers Poll Summer at the Museum

Long Island Getaway: Aerospace, Art, and History

Tuesday August 22-

Thursday August 24, 2023

This bus trip begins with a visit to the Cradle of Aviation Museum with a behind-the-scenes aircraft restoration facility tour. The trip also includes visits to Old Westbury Gardens, the Nassau County Museum of Art, and a special step-on tour of George Washington’s Culper Spy Ring sites in historic Setauket. Two nights of first class hotel accommodations are included, as well as two hot breakfasts, one lunch, and one dinner.

For more information, visit www.neam.org or call (860) 623-3305.

36 Perimeter Road (o昀 Route 75) Windsor Locks, CT

The New England Air Museum is located in Windsor Locks, Conn. adjacent to Bradley International Airport. Take I-91 north or south to CT. exit 40 (Route 20) to Route 75 north.

CT SUMMER AT THE MUSEUM

July 1 - September 4, 2023

From July 1st through September 4th, all CT youth aged 18 and younger receive FREE admission to the New England Air Museum with paid adult admission! All tickets must be purchased online through the website.

Youth must be accompanied by a paying adult during the museum visit. Proof of CT residency required upon arrival to the museum. Visit page for more information.

OPEN EVERYDAY 9:00am – 4:00pm

Admission to the New England Air Museum is $21 for adults, $13 for children ages 4-14, and free for 3 and under. Seniors 65+ $17 and Veterans with valid ID $12

Best Of Best Of

If you want to put a little pride into your ride, readers say the place to do it is On Point Connections in Enfield. Pictured here is On Point owner Craig Stanek.

These businesses keep your vehicle On Point

Continued from Page 5

Best Place to Put Pride in Your Ride On Point Connections

33 Palomba Drive Enfield

860-775-4326

NCN readers prefer to customize their vehicles with accessories from On Point. These include security equipment, sound and video system installation, window tinting and more.

Estimates can be given on the spot at On Point.

Best Auto Detailing Advanced Car Cleaning

34c Egypt Road Somers

860-763-3494

advanced-car-cleaning.business.site

Your car deserves a spa day at Advanced Car Cleaning.

So far it’s batting 1.000 on top

Automotive Services

reviews. The high level of outstanding workmanship is in the details.

Best Place to Buy Tires Maple Tire Center

115 West Main St. Stafford Springs

860-684-7182

mapletire.com

You’ll find just about any tire you need for cars and RVs. Custom wheels are available along with special wheels and rims that will compliment any tire or customer vehicle.

Best Auto Repair

Lee’s Auto and RV Ranch

171 West Road Ellington

833-429-9397

leesautoandrv.com

Since 1994 Lee’s has been repair-

ing the mechanical issues that occur under automobile hoods and restoring car exteriors damaged by accidents.

Winning the NCN Reader’s Poll simply bears out Lee’s philosophy that “happy customers and word of mouth is our best form of advertising.”

Photo by Joshua Esan

Best Of Best Of

They’ll keep you looking, feeling good

NCN readers weighed in on their favorite venues for self-care and medical care. Here are their recommendations.

Best Hair Salon

Cutting Loose Salon/Somers Crossing

95 South Road, Unit 26B Somers 860-749-3200

cuttingloosesomers.com

The shop is chic and stylish; the stylists are patient, creative, and expert. Cutting Loose specializes in French haircutting and French Balayage. These techniques are designed to highlight your individual beauty.

Best Hair Stylist

Carol Bigelow

Shear Magic Styling Salon

11 West Road Ellington 860-871-4109

Shear Magic Styling Salon on Facebook

NCN readers continue to appreciate Bigelow’s talent through her 35-year career doing hair and 20 years as a shop owner. No wonder she can say, “I love what I do; I love to make people happy.”

Beauty/Wellness

Best Barbershop

JB’s Scitico Barber Shop

585 Hazard Ave. Enfield

860-749-6305 sciticobarbershop.com

Starting with two barbers in 2007, this barbershop has become a household word in Enfield. Now nine stylists strong, the team specializes in modern and classic cuts, hot towel shaves and designs at affordable prices.

Best Esthetician Exfolé LLC

310A Hazard Ave. Enfield 860-698-9644 exfolellc.com

Exfolé specializes in skin care for women and men of all ages in a warm and welcoming environment.

All facials are customized and performed by a registered nurse/esthetician. The salon also offers chemical peels, microdermabrasions and derma sound and ultrasound treatments.

Dr. Timothy Fignar and the Fignar Family Practice, with offices in Enfield and South Windsor, has been selected by readers as best doctor.

Fignar Family Practice photo

Best Doctor

Dr. Timothy Fignar Fignar Family Practice

15 Palomba Drive Enfield

860-745-1623

www.fignarfp.com/

Dr. Fignar offers full scale family medicine, newborns to adults, with specialized treatment for medical weight loss. Offices are in Enfield and South Windsor.

BEAUTY & WELLNESS /Page 9

We are a free, monthly publication that is direct mailed to r East Windsor, Ellington, Enfield, Somers, Stafford and Suffield, Conn. We are also available at more than 100 high traffic locales throughout Vernon and Windsor Locks for free pick up. The North Central News was created in June of 2002 and continues to be both family-owned and locally operated.

Best Of Best Of

Readers smile when they think of this dentist

Continued from Page 8

Dr. Michael L. Nero’s practice is noted for its comprehensive and preventive patient care and its stateof-the-art facility.

Beauty/Wellness

Best Yoga

Middle River Yoga

2 River Road Stafford 860-706-3094 middleriveryoga.business.site

Middle River Yoga describes itself as a sacred space offering warmth, community, and peace.

Students attend weekly classes and events to connect with themselves, embrace silence, and recharge.

Drop in for a $12 class or purchase class cards.

can indulge in rituals of renewal and tranquility that bring about a balance of beauty and wellness.

Best Therapeutic Massage

Hazardville Wellness

308 Hazard Ave. Enfield 860-745-3500 hazardvillewellness.com

Over and over again, North Central News readers have voted Nate Fay’s wellness center as being the best place for treatments that reduce pain, improve movement and get them feeling better faster.

Residents are able to enjoy many amenities, including dining on local culinary favorites, participating in engaging and enriching social opportunities, and enjoying quality personal care services.

Best Adult Care

iCare Touchpoints at Home iCare Health Network

341Bidwell St. Manchester 860-570-2140

Touchpoints provides the highest level of care that encourages a safe and cost-effective delivery of home health services.

Dr. Michael L. Nero DMD

646 Main St. Somers 860-749-9911 drmichaelnero.com

Dr. Nero’s practice is devoted to comprehensive and preventive patient care, conducted in a state-of-the-art facility for the highest quality dental care available.

Best Spa Somers Day Spa

36 South Road Somers 860-763-4544 somersdayspa.com

Spend and hour or two or more at Somers Day Spa for a peaceful and unique environment.

At Somers Day Spa men and women

Best Assisted Living

The Ivy at Ellington 123 West Road Ellington 860-926-0222 arborsassistedliving.com/locations/ellington/

The Ivy offers many levels of care including a specialized memory support environment, all in elegant, home-like apartments.

These services include skilled nursing, physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, social worker, and home health aide services, so it’s no wonder our readers chose Touchpoints as the place to go for best adult care needs.

Best Dentist

Dr. Michael Nero DMD photo

Best Of Best Of

Readers have definitive vision of where to get glasses

Continued from Page 9

Best Place to Get Glasses

The Eyeglass Place

175 West Road

Ellington

860-454-4841

Facebook: The Eyeglass Place of Ellington

For the second consecutive year North Central News readers have named the Eyeglass Place their favorite place to get glasses.

Family owned and operated, the Eyeglass Place offers prescription glasses starting at $59.

Best Veterinary Facility

Stafford Veterinary Center 42 West Main St. Stafford Springs 860-684-5868

staffordveterinarycenter.com

Stafford Veterinary Center provides a

wide variety of veterinary services for large, small, and exotic animals.

Last year, after 41 years of operating out of it original location, Stafford Veterinary moved to a brand new, stateof-the-art facility right in the heart of Stafford.

North Central News readers certainly approved.

Best Veterinarian

Ron Caron

Ellington Center Animal Clinic 66 Main Street Ellington, CT ellingtonvet.com

North Central News readers say Ron Caron works hard at making you and your pet’s experience at the Ellington Center Animal Clinic veteranarian’s office as comfortable as it can possibly be.

Karen Alberto (left) and Karen Pizzitola of The Eyeglass Place of Ellington have set their sights on - and secured- their second Reader’s Poll victory. Courtesy photo

Best Of Best Of

Need something done at home? Let these pros do it

NCN homeowners could not put their household wants and needs in better hands than these professionals, according to this year’s NCN Readers Poll.

Hold on to this list for local businesses that will keep your home up-to-date, comfortable, functional, and maintained year round.

Best Construction

T-Square Builders

330 S Road Somers 860-763-5633

tsquarebuildersllc.com

NCN readers especially like that TSquare Builders’ staff completes your project with minimal sub-contracting. This family business, established in 1995, specializes in high quality building and remodeling including custom homes, additions, decks, dormers, interior remodeling, garages and more.

With their promise, “If you can dream it ... we can build it,” be sure T-Square can handle anything.

Best Foundation Crack Solution

Del Homes Monson, Massachusetts

413-813-8611

delhomesma.com

This full service home improvement company’s first pledge is to return your phone or text query within 24 hours. It follows that up with an understanding that your home is one of your most valuable assets —and a cracked foundation must be attended to honestly, ethically, and with the highest quality workmanship possible.

Best Landscaper

R & R Landscaping

140 Mountain St.

Ellington

860-870-8518

randrlandscapingservices.net

For material delivery, tree removal, excavation, and planting, readers have designated this family-owned and operat-

ed business the best landscaping company in North Central Connecticut. Residents and business owners alike have counted on their fleet of dump trucks to deliver screened topsoil, mulch, landscape stone, sand, gravel, fill, process gravel, pool sand and more, for over 20 years.

Best Gutter Cleaning

TJR Construction

143 Tunnel Road

Vernon 800-766-3514

tjr-construction.com

Until this summer’s extra-heavy rainstorms, many NCN homeowners forgot they even had gutters until the extreme weather came and a gutter backed up or got torn down – causing damage.

TJR specializes in top-of-the-line gutter repair, replacement, new installations, and cleaning to ensure that your gutters remain secure and function correctly through the changing seasons.

HOME IMPROVEMENT/Page 13

From carpentry to roofing, siding, and gutters, TJR Construction CEO Toby Richard has always been expanding his skills to provide the best service to customers. Since the late 1990s, the company has specialized in storm damage repair and replacements, and will help with all home improvement needs. TJR Construction photo

When you add “non-glare”

Best Of Best Of

Best Tree Service

Mountain Tree Service

21 Egypt Road/P.O. Box 501 Somers 860-749-7365 mtsne.com

Readers singled out this family-owned business with over 30 years of experience for a full array of professional tree care. Its team of licensed arborists and certified professionals has been reviewed as “prompt, responsive, friendly, attentive to detail, and knowledgeable.” Contact them for a free consultation.

Best Lawn Treatment

Green Carpet Lawn Care

216 Field Road Somers 860-871-1025

greencarpetlawn.com

Lawn care is year-round at Green Carpet. Its program includes early and late spring, summer, early fall, and winterizing treatments.

In addition, Green Carpet offers hydro-seeding, seeding, aeration, flea and tick control, and organic dethatching.

NCN readers can choose from several packages that cover seeding and seasonal fertilization to weed and pest control, all of which bring new life to their yards.

Best Driveway Paving

Airoldi Paving

P.O. Box 71, South Windsor 328 Plains Road, Tolland 860-896-0401 apaving.com

Years of paving experience and satisfied customers convinced our readers once again that this second-generation family business does the job right — the first time.

Airoldi has paved areas 7 feet long to 7 acres, taking care to engineer just the right slope for proper drainage.

Best Electrician

D’Amico Electric

72 Orcuttville Road (Route 319)

Stafford 860-896-5234 damicoelectricinc.com

It was no shock readers chose D’Amico. Family-owned-and-operated, established in 1974 by Al and Patrene D’Amico, the com-

pany has been wiring the area for 45 years.

Best Place to Buy Oil

Troiano Oil Co.

777 Enfield St. Enfield 860-745-0321 troianooil.com

For over 89 years and across three generations of family ownership, Troiano Oil has provided reliable, affordable, and quality home heating oil deliveries, with automatic and will-call arrangements. Customers who pay within 10 days of receipt are eligible for a 5 cents per gallon discount. Senior citizens also qualify for a 2 cents per gallon discount.

Best Propane Service

Williams Fuel Oil Co.

162 East St. Stafford Springs 860-684-9123

williamsfueloil.com

Complete a form at williamsfueloil. com to schedule a delivery. A confirmation call will follow and shortly after your order will be delivered. Williams strives to make lives as easy as possible by handling all heating and cooling services a home could need

Best Heating Installation and Service

Fox Heating 37 Westford Ave. Stafford Springs 860-369-4328 foxheating.com

Founded in 1984, this company is one of Connecticut’s largest heating and cooling contractors because of a commitment to service. With technicians on call 24/7, people say Fox “came to the rescue in record time.”

THANK YOU FOR VOTING US THE “BERRY” BEST

BLUEBERRIES

327 Ninth District Road, Somers, CT 860-749-3286 • scanticvalleyfarm.com

Hours; Closed Monday & Tuesday

Wednesday-Friday 8-6

Saturday & Sunday 8-2

Cut flowers - Dahlias, Sunflowers & more!

The Farmers Market at Sun Valley Resort offers local residents a unique shopping experience. Shoppers can expect local farm and craft booths at a shady picturesque venue. Come join us for an enjoyable evening out.

Saturdays from 4pm-7pm May 20 - Sept. 17, 2023!

S

Affordable Family Fun!

www.sunvalleybeachclub.com

51 Old Spring昀eld Road Stafford Springs, CT 860-684-5861 • 860-684-5863

Your Summertime Recreation Destination!

East Windsor East Windsor

Museum needs Pumpkin Patch, Darkside volunteers

EAST WINDSOR — The Connecticut Trolley Museum on Route 140 is looking for volunteers for its Halloween events, Rails to the Darkside and Pumpkin Patch Trolley.

The events will be held weekends starting the end of September through the end of October. Volunteers must be ages 15 plus.

No prior experience is required.

The museum will be holding casting calls at the Trolley Museum for Rails to the Darkside at 9 a.m. Aug. 19 and 5:30 p.m Sept. 6 for anyone interested in joining our “Darkside family” to help “haunt” the event. To register for the casting call visit www. ct-trolley.org.

For those who do not like to scare but would like to volunteer for their kid-friendly Pumpkin Patch Trolley, the museum is looking for help with face painting, pumpkin decorating, Pumpkin Patch activities/crafts help and crowd control. For those wishing for more information on how to volunteer for Pumpkin Patch Trolley, call the Museum at 860-627-6540, or visit our website at www.ct-trolley.org.

The Connecticut Trolley Museum is at 58 North Road (Route 140). For more information, call the business office at 860-627-6540 or visit the website at www.ct-trolley.org.

The Connecticut Trolley Museum is looking for volunteers for its annual Rails to the Darkside events, along with its Pumpkin Patch Trolley in September and October.

Connecticut Trolley Museum photo

SERVICING 58 TOWNS IN CT & 28 TOWNS IN MASS FOR OVER 27 YEARS

Sells over 70 - 120 homes a year

Relocation & High End Home Expert

Owned and managed over 4 million dollars of his own personal portfolio.

Has owned and flipped over 40 homes.

Greg Heineman Broker/Owner CT. & MA.

*Peer-given awards count, says Heineman. One that really means something is the “Realtor of the Year” designation awarded by the state or local branch of NAR or readers poles.

“These agents are the best as judged by their peers,” he says. “That’s a huge endorsement.”

Cell: (860) 841-1199

Office: (860) 745-2800

Office: (860) 668-6464

Enfield Office

Suffield Office

Toll-free: 1-877-TREND-2000

Email: Greg@trend2000.com

Web: www.trend2000.com

“When Customer Service, Honesty & Integrity Matter”

Probate judge presentation

Ellington Probate Judge Elisa Bartlett, left, a member of the state Council on Probate Judicial Conduct, was among the presenters at the Connecticut Probate Assembly’s quarterly meeting at Central Connecticut State University. Joining her were fellow council members Joseph Flynn, second from left, and James Connelly, at right. They provided the statewide probate judges and clerks in attendance with an educational session on how the council investigates judicial misconduct complaints. Pictured between Flynn and Connelly is Connecticut Probate Court Administrator Beverly Streit-Kefalas.

Council on Probate Judicial Conduct photo

Town names DPW director

ELLINGTON — The Board of Selectmen has unanimously promoted Tom Modzelewski to director of Public Works/WPCA administrator. The move was effective July 10.

Modzelewski joined Public Works as foreman in 2018. He was promoted to superintendent of operations in 2022, and has been acting director since May. Modzelewski was recently recognized for Outstanding Achievement in Public Works by the New England Chapter of the American Public Works Association.

“I’m excited to see the direction that Tom is going to take the Department moving forward,” First Selectman Lori Spielman said. “In his time here and within his various roles, he has shown incredible growth in a short period of time, and he has proven himself to be a reliable, hard-working member of the team.”

“I am very fortunate to work with an amazing team of people,” Modzelewski said.

Dr. Wallace earns spot on Ellington Wall of Honor

ELLINGTON — The Board of Selectmen has unanimously selected Dr. Lenzy Wallace Jr. to be inducted to the Ellington Wall of Honor. A formal induction ceremony will be Sept. 9, at 4 p.m. at the site of the Wall of Honor in Arbor Park off Main Street.

Nominated by Gregory Gunn, the application included letters of support from over a dozen individuals whose lives had been touched by Wallace in some way throughout the years.

A gifted musician and decorated World War II Navy veteran, Wallace was passionate about his life’s mission: to serve, inspire, and help others be successful. His vision, hard work, and commitment contributed to a long-lasting legacy.

After receiving his master’s in music education from The Hartt School, where he was later named Alumnus of the Year, he became the director of music at Ellington High School in 1969. “A man of grace and dignity ... [Lenzy] WAS the music program in Ellington for several years,” one letter of support shared. Noting a lack of space for classes and rehearsals, he got the Ellington Music Boosters Club running and was tireless in efforts to garner support for a new music building at EHS, which was dedicated in April 1973 — “somebody said it couldn’t be done ... and he did it.”

In addition to teaching at school, he hosted smaller vocal ensembles at his home, introducing students to new styles of music and guiding them through intricate vocal arrangements that some say they remember even now, 50 years later.

In the words of the late Ruth (Ridge) Garrott regarding adding Wallace to Ellington’s Wall of Honor, “If not that wonderful man, then who? He’s the reason Ellington got through the civil rights time so gracefully. He was such a gentleman that he brought us all gently through it. He touched so many lives.”

We Grow The Best

Both

We have a nice selection of native fruits and vegetables, honey, and maple products. We also have CT made pies and breads as well as our own in store made apple cider donuts. We carry many other food items such as jams, sauces, bread mixes, pickled vegetables and much more. We also have some unique items made by local crafters.

Current summer store hours: 9-6 Everyday

We regret, due to heavy crop losses we will not have any peaches or pick your own this season.

Stand address’ are:

185 West Road (RT 83) in Ellington

244 Hartford Turnpike (RT30) in Tolland (on the Vernon town line) (860) 875-1000

www.johnnyappleseedfarmct.com

Enfield Enfield

Mayor’s Corner

ENFIELD — As the temperatures climb and the summer thunderstorms continue, there is still a lot going on in Enfield this summer.

This weekend marks the Mount Carmel Feast and Festival and a celebration of Enfield’s Italian heritage, complete with a delicious menu and awesome music.

In addition to that festival, the Summer Concert Series is continuing in Higgins Park behind Town Hall every Tuesday starting at 7 p.m., weather permitting.

Come and see the new bandshell along with upcoming performances from Lickity Split (Aug. 8), Murphy’s Law (Aug. 15) and Trailer Trash (Aug. 22).

The Park and Recreation Summer Camp continues through mid-August, offering up summer fun for more than 540 children over the course of seven weeks.

The camp is designed to be affordable for working families and includes field trips to places like the

movies, parks, bowling and open swim.

Open swim continues at the Enfield Annex on Saturdays, Aug, 5 and 12, at a cost of $1 for adults and 50 cents for children.

Also a reminder that school year programming will be out in early September.

Local parks have also been busy, with lots of action at the new basketball court at Higgins Park; and a new basketball court being installed at Wallop Street School Park this month.

On the Town Green, the Craft and Vendor Show, with an occasional farmer, happens each Sunday from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. This market is free and open to the public, and is a great way to support local small businesses and organizations.

Pickleball is taking over Enfield with tons of people clamoring to play at the South Road pickleball courts and inside at The Annex.

As with many communities, the popularity of pickleball is growing larger than the availability of courts, which is why we opened The Annex to pickleball five years ago. Currently there are plans to redo the Annex court lines this fall and repairs at the South Road courts are being discussed due to the appearance of cracks. The

Picnic pack rentals are available

ENFIELD

Packs Include: badminton, wiffleball, horseshoes, games, Frisbee, sports balls, throw-down bases, volleyball/badminton net, croquet set.

Packs are available for Enfield residents, Thursday through Tuesday.

Pick-up/return must be during Recreation Office hours, 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. Reservations must be made at least 24 hours in advance and are available now through Sept. 5.

For complete details visit www.enfield-ct.gov/recreation.

New England Landscaping

discussion remains as to whether to repair the cracks, which will inevitably develop again over the winter, or put through a budget request to completely redo the courts the right way, which has a higher price tag.

And lastly, I would like to point out that summer is a difficult time for the elderly and those who are homeless or without stable housing because of the high temperatures.

If you have elderly neighbors, please check in on them and maybe even offer to do small errands or chores for them so they don’t have to venture out in the heat.

There has also been an increase in panhandling during the summer months.

The best way you can help this vulnerable population is by making a donation to the town’s Dept. of Social Services, Loaves and Fishes, Enfield Food Shelf, or the Safe Harbor. All of these organizations provide critical services.

In addition to monetary contributions, you could also donate Magic Carpet bus passes, cases of water, or personal hygiene and snack items.

Working together, we can ensure that all of Enfield’s residents enjoy the summer.

3 Bedrooms • 2 Bathrooms • 1,300 sqft Enfield CT $1,975/3 months $1,959 per month

Three

1st Fl laundry, stove, dishwasher, and refrigerator excellent condition. Dining area, oil heat, Swedish fireplace and open floor plan, 2 FULL baths. NEW heating/ central air unit installed. 5 min to Rte 91 access, 20 minutes to Hartford and 15 minutes to Springfield. Applicants MUST HAVE 700 FICO CREDIT score and proof of credit score and verified before showing of property . NO PETS/ NO SMOKERS. Need good past references and verifiable income. Available July 1st . Two months security, one year lease. Owner/Agent

Tenant pays all UTILITIES and SEWER. Tenant insurance required on move-in. Only inquires if you have 700 CREDIT SCORE and qualified income.

bedroom lovely ranch, oversized two car garage, totally fenced in yard, large kitchen, all neutral colors.

Enfield Enfield

Rotary dials up highest honor

ENFIELD — The Enfield Rotary Club was proud to honor newly recognized Paul Harris Fellows at its annual dinner. The recognition is the highest honor offered by Rotary.

This year’s Paul Harris Fellows included Sam Irizarry, Kathleen Souvigney, Charles Palomba, and Sean Stevens. The Paul Harris Fellow recognition acknowledges individuals who contribute, or who have contributions made in their name, of $1,000 to The Rotary Foundation.

Rotary established the recognition in 1957 to encourage and show appreciation for substantial contributions to what was then the foundation’s only program, Rotary Foundation Fellowships for Advanced Study, the precursor to Ambassadorial Scholarships.

Club members Dick Stevens, Milt Rosenberg and Enfield’s Rotary Club contributed $1,000 to the Rotary Foundation for each recipient honored at the dinner. The event was held at Grassmere Country Club.

Rotary members Dave Drinan and Dick Stevens were honored as the longest Rotarians in the Enfield Club at 52 and 51 years respectively. Former President Mike Helechu emceed the night. Visit https://enfieldctrotary.org/page/showhomepage/ to see more photos from the evening.

The Rotary Club of Enfield meets on the first and third Wednesday of the month at Asnuntuck Community College at 12:15 p.m.

Library hosts concert

The Enfield Public Library will host a concert on the library lawn with Cameron Sutphin at 6:30 p.m.

Wednesday, Aug. 9. Sutphin is an Americana singer/guitar player. In 2017 as a solo act, he released his debut Nashville recorded “Heartbreak Town.” Sutphin has shared the stage with national touring artist Drew Kelly, Mark Mandeville and Raianne Richards, as well as Emily Ann Roberts, Season 9 runner-up on “The Voice.” Sutphin performs original material and classic country and folk cover songs. The rogram will be moved indoors if weather is bad. For details on library events, visit www.enfieldpubliclibrary.org.

Cameron Sutphin courtesy photo

From left, Rotary Club of Enfield President Julie Cotnoir, Paul Harris Fellow recipients Sam Irizarry, Kathleen Souvigney, Charles Palomba, Sean Stevens and Former Rotary Club of Enfield President and Paul Harris Dinner Chairman Milt Rosenberg. Missing from photo Paul Harris Fellow Sarah K. DeSimone.

Rotary Club of Enfield photo

Pulmonary Team

Leading Edge Pulmonary Rehabilitation Program

Best Adult Care

Pulmonary Rehabilitation Services

Touchpoints Rehab pulmonary rehabilitation program is designed to bring continuity in pulmonary care from the acute hospital setting into the skilled nursing and rehab care setting. Board certi昀ed pulmonologist Dr. John Rodgers provides pulmonary care, sleep medicine and specialty consultation to the residents of the Touchpoints Rehab community. He gives our residents access to expert, individualized and clinically outstanding pulmonary care and sleep medicine in the short term rehab setting.

Within the nursing center the physicians provide consultation and pulmonary medical direction; treating chronic lung and respiratory diseases such as asthma, COPD, emphysema, pulmonary 昀brosis, pulmonary hypertension and sleep apnea; providing medical care and orders; medication adjustment; respiratory care via a dedicated Respiratory Therapist; breathing treatments; spirometry; and much more.

For more information on our pulmonary rehabilitation program or any of our Touchpoints Rehab care centers, please call (860) 812-0788 or visit Touchpointsrehab.com

Find out why Touchpoints Rehab

Addressing Frequent Hospitalizations

The program also addresses repeat hospitalizations by applying integrated pulmonary care and sleep medicine consulting to many diagnoses, including COPD and congestive heart failure. For patients with multiple hospitalizations the pulmonology team will address their general state of health and wellness and improve their daily functionality. This will get them back home where they want to be and slow the tide of re-hospitalizations. It is truly forward looking.

Pulmonary Rehabilitation Services

At Touchpoints Rehab centers we recognize that proper respiratory function directly impacts the quality of life and ability to conduct normal daily activities with ease.

Our Pulmonary Rehabilitation Program features care and therapy designed to treat and manage respiratory illnesses such as:

•Emphysema

•COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disorder)

•Cystic Fibrosis • Bronchitis

•Pneumonia • Lung Disease

•Asthma • Tracheostomy Care

•Secretion Management • Primary

•Pulmonary • Hypertension

•Pulmonary • Fibrosis

•Other obstructive or restrictive pulmonary-related diseases and conditions

Our Pulmonary Program includes:

• Initial and ongoing assessments from physical, occupational, respiratory and speech therapists up to 7 days per week

• Rehabilitation with respiratory and physical therapists

• Board-certi昀ed pulmonologists

•Spirometry screening pre and post bronchodilator

• Six-minute walk/activity testing

•VEST Therapy

• Exercise and endurance training

• Oxygen titration

• Extensive patient and family education

• Case Management and discharge planning services

is known as

‘The Place I Trust with Mom’s Care.’

Dr. John Rodgers

Dr. Fielding Johnson Maureen Orlando, RRT

Regional Regional

Resources available for flood-struck farms

HARTFORD —

This has been a very hard year for farmers across Connecticut, including in the 57th District. From sub-freezes in February and May to droughts in June and flooding in July, the weather has taken its toll on crops.

Last month, I asked readers to do whatever they could to support their local farmers and farmers markets. I ask that you continue to do so. This month I will focus on resources available to farmers as they navigate this tough period. This is the time for our community to rally behind our local farms. Shop local. Buy local. Support local farms.

In July, I attended a press conference with Connecticut Department of Agriculture Commissioner Bryan Hurlburt, Connecticut Department of Energy and

Environmental Protection Commissioner Katie Dykes, Gov. Ned Lamont, Sen. Richard Blumenthal, fellow state representatives, officials from the farming and agricultural community, and most importantly, farmers. One of the topics discussed was the Disaster Relief Resource webpage, which includes initial flood recovery information, and a section to report losses.

The webpage can be found here at https://portal.ct.gov/disaster and new resources will be continually added to the site. If you need immediate support, you can call 211 or visit www.211ct.org

Among the resources available, there is the AgriStress Helpline for Connecticut. With so many uncertainties in farming and agriculture, it can lead to a stressful. The website ctfarmstressrelief.com offers a variety of resources, including videos and webinars, interviews, digital toolkits, and other tools, to help farmers through stressful times. There is also an immediate crisis helpline at 1-833-897-2474.

The Department of Agriculture's Disaster Relief Resource page also offers options for livestock assistance, farm loans, farmland damage, crop losses, rural development, and natural resources conservation service.

At the time this article was submitted, Governor Lamont had submitted a federal agriculture disaster declaration request — the second in just a few months —for all eight Connecticut counties, due to the significant damage that occurred to farms and crops statewide, particularly along the Connecticut River and other waterways.

The Department of Agriculture assessed flood damage to farms and found that 27 state farms estimate losses of more than

1,500 acres and nearly $21 million in lost sales revenue. Two frost events in February and May resulted in 1,077 acres impacted, with estimated losses of $8.4 million.

In his submission, Governor Lamont told U.S. Agriculture Secretary Thomas Vilsack that Connecticut received 10.74 inches of rain so far in July, more than 400% of the state’s normal rainfall for the month.

If the request is approved, the declaration will make farmers eligible for certain federal disaster assistance programs, such as emergency loans, to cover production losses they experienced from the flooding.

As always, please contact my office with any concerns you may have. I can be reached at 860-240-8585 or jaime.foster@cga.ct.gov

Jaime Foster

Rep. Jaime Foster attended a recent press conference regarding the July flooding and the impact it had on farms.

Rep. Jaime Foster’s office photo

Best Of Best Of

Home needs made easy

Continued from Page 13

Best HVAC

Stafford Mechanical Services

4 Industrial Park Drive

Stafford Springs

860-684-9485

staffordmechanical.com

Readers are in good hands with Stafford Mechanical. Technicians provide expert AC maintenance, 24-hour emergency repair services, new installations and ductless air conditioning. And Stafford can provide geothermal AC, which absorbs heat from a home, transferring it underground where the cooler earth absorbs it. The cool water is used by the heat pump to make cool, dehumidified air for your home.

Best Powerwash

Mr. T’s Powerwash Inc.

88 Old Catholic Road S Tolland

860-872-2729

mrtspowerwash.com

Family and locally owned since 1985, Mr. T can get your home looking new again with a high-pressured wash. A SoftWash method for roofs removes algae buildup, stains, and excessive wear and tear while preserving the integrity of shingles.

Best Window Cleaning

Window Genie of Northern Connecticut

31 Bradfield Drive Somers 860-698-3030

windowgenie.com

They do windows — and more, like pressure washing and gutter cleaning. One customer signed them up for windows, patio area, vinyl siding and a vinyl fence. “Everything came out like new!”

Best Roofing

Conventional Builders (CB Roofing)

27 W. Main St. Vernon (860) 454-7596

conventionalbuildersand roofing.com

With nearly three decades of experience, CB strives to be a one-stop shop for all roofing needs. Whether you need full roof installation, storm damage repair or emergency service, the roofers at Conventional like to say they’ve got you covered.

Best Place to “Gear” for the Season Bacher Corporation 7 Thompson Road East Windsor 800-724-0635 bachercorporation.com

For 45 years Bacher has specialized in commercial lawn, turf, and vegetation control equipment to a variety of customers in New England. Industry leading product lines include Alamo Industrial, Hustler, and Steiner Equipment among others. Welcome to the NCN “Best of” listing, Bacher.

Best Concrete

Aaron’s Concrete

36 Yale Drive Enfield 860-995-9091

Congratulations to Aaron Kolaczenko for his business’ first appearance on the NCN “Best of” Readers Poll. Aaron’s has been doing foundations, floors, patios, steps, driveways and sidewalks for over 35 years.

A ‘Best Of’ all the best Music Outlet, a long-time staple for music lovers in Enfield, will be closing in October. This is owner Gary Cabot in 2022. Music Outlet photo

For Voting Us Best Bank For 2023.

Main Of昀ce: 2 Furnace Ave

Centre Branch: 74 W. Stafford Rd

Plaza Branch: 85 W. Stafford Rd

Best Of Best Of

All aboard with readers’ choices for staying enertained

NCN readers know where to go to have a good time. Here are their favorites places rain or shine, indoors and out.

“Regional Gem” Award

Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame

100 Hall of Fame Ave. Springfield 877-4HOOPLA

hoophall.com

Nearly 200,000 people from far and wide visit the Hall of Fame yearly. It's conveniently located just a dozen or so miles on I-91N for NCN readers. Inside you’ll find 40,000 sq. ft. of basketball history. Visitors learn about the game, experience interactive exhibits and can test their skill on the Jerry Colangelo “Court of Dreams.”

Best Attraction for All Seasons Award

Connecticut Trolley Museum

58 North Road East Windsor

860-627-6540

ct-trolley.org

The Pumpkin Patch is a must for weekends in October, where you will ride the trolley to an area where children can pick out a sugar-sized pumpkin.

Expect a spookier ride come Halloween’s Rails to the Darkside.

And don’t forget about the bright and jolly “trolley-ing” during Winterfest in late-November-December, and the Easter Bunny appearances in early spring.

Best Area Entertainment

MGM Springfield Resort

One MGM Way Springfield 413-273-5000

mgmspringfield.com

Readers say that having a great time at Springfield’s MGM Casino is a sure bet. The venue offers one-stop shopping with restaurants, entertainment, and more to round out the gaming experience.

Big acts coming this fall include Brit Floyd, Chelsea Handler, and Joe Bonamassa. More info at springfieldmgmresorts.com.

Best Place for Live Music

Broad Brook Opera House

107 Main St. Broad Brook

860-558-9202

broadbrookoperahouse.com

Welcome to the “Best of” Club

BBOH! NCN readers have come to show their appreciation for live shows in this time-honored venue that dates back to 1892. The historic location, originally founded by the Broad Brook Company, has been home to community groups and businesses throughout the century. Its tradition of being a family-run establishment has continued through its present day.

Live music shows through August will feature a Tom Petty tribute, the iconic country sound of Gibson Brothers with Serene Green, and a Heart tribute. Visit website for dates and ticket information.

Best Place to Have a Birthday Party

Sonny’s Place

349 Main St. (Route 190) Somers

860-763-5454

sonnysplace.com

A party at Sonny’s Place is sure to fill the wish list of any birthday boy or girl. Choose from four two-hour packages, offering a choice of two to four or unlimited activities. A private party room, pizza and drinks, balloons and paper goods, and mini-golf are also included.

Book online and save the hassle of planning activities and shopping for supplies with one of Sonny’s great Birthday Party Packages.

Best Educational Attraction

New England Air Museum

36 Perimeter Road

Windsor Locks

860-623-3305

neam.org

Located adjacent to Bradley International Airport, visitors will discover the possibilities of flight as they view aircraft ranging from early flying machines to supersonic jets, as well as engines and other flight-related equipment.

Through Sept. 4 all state youth ages 18 and younger will receive free admission with paid adult admission. Youth must be accompanied by a paying adult; proof of residency required upon arrival. Visit neam/events for details.

Noah Veilleux, Executive Director Gina Maria Alimberti, volunteers Don Nordell and Jim Miller of the Connecticut Trolley Museum, named the Best Attraction for All Seasons winner.

Connecticut Trolley Museum photo

Best Of Best Of

Bring your entertainment game to the next level

Continued from Page 41

Best Place for Affordable Family Fun

The Apple Place

540 Somers Road (Route 83)

East Longmeadow, Massachusetts

413-348-9628

theappleplace.net

The Apple Place has been a family-run fruit farm since 1971 that now grows over 50 varieties of apples along with peaches and pears. The farmstand is open from the end of April until Thanksgiving. There’s also an onsite bakery specializing in pies, cider donuts and a variety of other goodies and a creamery featuring locally churned ice-cream.

Best Golf Rolling Meadows Country Club

78 Sadds Mill Road

Ellington

860-870-5328

rollingmeadowscountryclub.com

The public is welcome and since last year Rolling Meadows has opened up tee times to the public on weekends. Get

ready for pristine fairways and large, undulating greens along with breathtaking views of the Berkshires as you play. Golfers can book seven days in advance for any day of the week. GHIN numbers can be purchased at the Pro Shop for handicap scoring.

Best Driving Range

Pleasant View Golf Center 452 S Road (Route 83)

Somers 860-749-5868

Facebook: Pleasant View Golf Center

No time to play 18 holes? No problem.

Pleasant View Golf Center is open from 8 a.m. to dusk, seven days a week. The range has a large grass hitting area and is well marked with yardage signs. It’s easy to just stop in to drive a bucket of balls for $5. Vending machines take cash only so bring exact amount.

Joe Lipton from Pleasant View Golf Center. Whether you are working on improving your driving or your shortiron game, golfers can feel at home on the range at Pleasant View Golf Center in Somers. Courtesy photo

Best Place to Go on a Rainy Day Spare

Time

129 Ella Grasso Turnpike

Windsor Locks 860-623-2597

sparetimeenterainment.com/windsorlocks

NCN readers spend plenty of their spare time at this premier family entertainment center. There’s still summer fun

to be had before fall bowling leagues start at Spare Time including a Kids Bowl Free program. Plus adults can join the fun by purchasing a family pass.

And that’s not all: The Game Zone features more than 80 arcade games; there’s a laser tag arena, and two themed Escape Rooms. Be on the lookout for specials and coupons on the Spare Time website and facebook page.

Best Hotel

Cambria Hotel

1000 Long Leaf Lane

South Windsor 860-325-8900

Facebook: Cambria Hotel South Windsor

NCN readers favored the newest hotel in the area this year.

Opening its doors last fall, the Cambria Hotel (owned by Choice Hotels) offers spacious, modern, comfortable rooms with a chaise lounge, bluetooth compatible mirrors, and a flat screen TV.

The Silkworks Bar and Kitchen, located inside and open to all, has local craft brew on tap and to go, along with an array of flatbreads and other pub favorites.

Stars, stripes and songs at festive Fourth event

Enfield’s annual Fourth of July Town Celebration took place July 7, 8 and 9. From top left: The Enfield Police Explorers march in the parade, Aquanett performs, and Night Moves in concert. Enfield Fourth of July Town Celebration Committee photos

Dr. Scott D. Morey • Dr. Heidi L. Morey

The Warner Reading Room

The Somers Public Library recently honored Somers citizen Shirley Warner (left, with library director Joanne Nichting, the library director) of its Library Board of Trustees. Warner has dedicated 35 years of service to the town of Somers as chairman and member of the Library Board. Some of the many projects and efforts she participated in include the building of the “new” library completed in 1988, the expansion of the library completed in 2009, handling the requirements of the COVID-19 epidemic, working with five library directors, and spending many hours contributing ideas to better serve the townspeople of Somers through the library. In recognition of her service the Library Board of Trustees dedicated the library’s periodical room to Warner on July 21 at a reception held in her honor.

Somers Public Library photo

SEF celebrates 19 years

SOMERS — The Somers Education Foundation (SEF) held its annual meeting July 12, closing out its 19th year in grand fashion. Many milestones were crossed. It had its best fundraising year ($74,214), topped by an event in April that raised $51,000 and was declared “the best social event of the year in Somers” by First Selectman, Tim Keeney.

SEF awarded $55,703 in grants this year for a total of $650,000 since 2004. Seven education grants were awarded, highlighted by a new weight room at the high school, a Makers Space in the middle school and a reading literacy project at the elementary school. Thirteen professional development grants were also awarded.

SEF has great expectations for its 20th year ,with a goal of getting the endowment to $1 million. For more information about SEF’s history go to: www.sefonline.org or Facebook.com/SEFSomersCT.

College honors

Bryant University

SMITHFIELD, R.I. — Bryant University has recognized students who have demonstrated an unwavering commitment to academic excellence and achievement and have been named to the spring 2023 President’s List and Dean’s List.

The President's List is an academic distinction reserved for Bryant's highest achievers who earn a grade-point average of 4.0 for at least 12 semester hours of work.

Area students on the President’s List: Ellington: Vincent Sivo.

Enfield: Isabella Laramee.

Somers: Matthew Kiernan.

To earn a place on the Dean’s List students must have a GPA of 3.4 or better for at least 12 semester hours of work.

Area students on the Dean’s List: Ellington: Padraigh Fitzgerald, Andrew Heyman, Vincent Sivo.

Enfield: Isabella Laramee, Emily Marullo, Julia Purdue, Keegan Reim, Jack Sweeney.

Somers: Allison Carra, Anthony Carra, Jack Gebo, Matthew Kiernan, Gavin Rauza.

Stafford: Cory Bradley.

Vernon: Daniel Piepmeier.

Best Of Best Of Food Take time to digest these options for food, drink

Readers know what they like – and they like good food and drink. Here are places they go to find their favorites.

Best Restaurant Overall

Trattoria Da Lepri

89 West Road

Ellington

860-875-1111

trattoriadalepri

Manga is the mantra of this venue reminiscent of the classic Italian Trattoria. Its fresh, gourmet Italian meals utilize local grass-fed beef, fresh seafood, and seasonal, organic vegetables from local farms and the Lepri family garden. Readers also rave about expertly crafted cocktails, local brews, and an extensive wine list.

Best Breakfast

Chuck Wagon

12 Church St.

Ellington (860) 872-3950

Facebook: Chuck Wagon Restaurant

Start your day at the Chuck Wagon and the rest of the day is bound to go better. A homespun place with warmhearted hospitality, this breakfast/lunch eatery is your best go-to for comfort food and a neighborly atmosphere.

Best Dinner

J Rego’s Gathering Place

17 West Road

Ellington

860-454-4458

jregosgatheringplace.com

Readers recognize J Regos’s passion for combining good food, friends, family, and drinks in a cozy atmosphere. There’s something for everyone on its varied menu including gluten-free options. Though the establishment does not take reservations, you may call ahead and place your name on a waitlist to be seated as close to that time as possible.

Best Brunch

The Hidden Still

87 West Road

Ellington

860-896-3333 thehiddenstill.com

Connecticut’s first moonshine bar invites you to “get your shine on” with its special brunch menu Saturday and Sunday, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. It includes “boozy” brunch drink choices that complement the hearty late morning/early afternoon fare.

Best Lunch

Lulu’s Pizzeria & Family Restaurant

151 Hazard Ave. Enfield 860-763-2377 luluspizzeria.com

Outdoor dining is nothing new to Lulu’s, a restaurant that offers ItalianAmerican cuisine. The cozy patio has been around for years.

Best Mexican Restaurant

Alcapulcos

61 Palomba Drive Enfield

860-763-5000 alcapucos.net

Even though the Enfield Alcapulcos is one of eight locations, it prides itself on authenticity. While all Acapulcos share the same menu and recipes, each has a slightly different style in its interior decorating and food preparation, welcoming customers to visit a few and taste the difference.

Best Seafood

Maine Fish Market and Restaurant

60 Bridge St.

East Windsor

860-623-2281

mainefishmarket.com

It’s no secret why this restaurant located in a beautiful 1780s building has had to add on rooms a number of times. Multiple, spacious dining areas along with a full bar and lounge with a fireplace contribute to its ambiance as patrons are served the freshest seafood around. Plus there’s no pre-breading or pre-cooking or microwaving from frozen.

It might take a little longer to get your order to the table, but NCN Readers agree it’s worth the wait.

Best Italian Restaurant

Figaro Ristorante 90 Elm St. Enfield 860-745-2414

figaroct.com

Figaro’s has been serving Enfield and the surrounding community for over 40 years. It offers Italian options for both lunch and dinner. Readers give shoutouts to the sauces, pasta fagoli, eggplant parmesan, chowder, grinders and more –including phenomenal martinis. Figaro’s chefs cook everything to order and are happy to meet all your dietary needs, including a gluten-free menu.

Most Creative Menu

Jackalope

254 Worthington St. Springfield 413-233-4422

eatjackalope.com

Named after a mythical creature, Jackalope offers a brand new “mythical” dining experience. It’s been described as having “the cutting edge, creative American style menu, from a burger and beer to a $300 bottle of Screaming Eagle and duck or lamb rack.” In between those choices is something that fits every taste.

Best Grinders

Jersey Mike’s Subs 39 Hazard Ave., Enfield,860-265-1399

1500 Pleasant Valley Road, Manchester, 860-474-8550

jerseymikes.com

Whether you call them subs, hoagies, heroes, or grinders, Jersey Mike’s offers authentic Northeast Americanstyle sandwiches baked on fresh-baked rolls. Some say the secret is to ask for your order to be prepped “Mike’s Way” with onions, lettuce, tomatoes, oil, vinegar, and spices. Jersey Mike’s is a three-time Reader’s Poll winner.

Best Dining Per Dollar Value

Anthony’s Restaurant

74 Palomba Drive

Enfield

860-698-6330

anthonyspizza.com

Anthony’s takes pride in its pizza and variety of dishes, always trying to keep prices competitive but never compromising on food quality and flavor.

Best Pizza

Mario’s Pizzeria & Ristorante 48 South Road Somers 860-698-6988

Facebook: Mario’s Pizzeria & Ristorante

Mario’s prides itself on using best ingredients imported from Italy. The owners will tell you Mario’s is “not just another pizza shop.” The pizzas are hand-tossed and cooked on stone. Beer and wine is available on site.

Best Meatball

Casa Bella 546 Main St. Hampden, Massachusetts 413-566-1466

casabellarestaurant.net

Craving a little taste of Italy? Readers rave about the ground beef, pork, and veal used to make Casa Bella’s renowned meatballs

Best Brewery

Broad Brook Brewing

915 South St. Suffield 860-623-1000

broadbrookbrewing.com

When you’re looking for the finest local craft beer, the best stouts, IPAs, and lagers, Broad Brook has you covered. Foodies are drawn to its pub menu – featuring 12 pizza selections, beer chili, craft burgers, pork sliders, and more. An outdoor patio offers a view of planes flying in and out of Bradley.

Best New Eatery Stillwater Grill

328 East St. Stafford 860-684-4086

ctstillwatergrill.com

This new venue is on its way to becoming a mainstay. From it’s welcoming rustic atmosphere to varied menu, diners can count on good vibes all around.

J Rego's owner Kevin Regan.

Ernie Nolasco, owner of Figaro.

Best Of Best Of

Food options galore in region

Continued from Page 49

Food

Best Dining With a View

Four Seasons by the Lake

51 Old Springfield Road

Stafford Springs

860-851-9445

fourseasonsbythelake.com

Four Seasons by the Lake changes quarterly with a rotating menu and plenty of seasonal specials. When the weather is fine, dining on its spacious deck overlooking Sun Valley Pond further enhances the experience.

Best Barbecue

Smoke BBQ Cafe

4 Alden Ave. Enfield (860) 265-3041

smokebbqcafe.com

This year’s Readers Poll welcomes Smoke BBQ to the list of favorites. The café – formerly the Polish Deli – has been smoking fresh meat (and cheese, fish, spices) since 2009. It now offers brisket, burnt ends, pulled pork, BBQ chicken, and ribs, and an array of sides. There are limited seats in the café. Take out is most popular.

Best Vineyard

Worthington Vineyard and Winery

359 Mountain Road Somers 860-614-5774

worthingtonpondfarm.com

Each season offers a unique experience of beauty and harmony with nature on the Worthington Pond Farm grounds. During your visit you’ll have the opportunity to enjoy wine made on the premises as well as varieties brought in from the Finger Lakes region and California.

Best Catering

Joanna’s 145 Main St. Somers 860-749-6002

joannabanques.com

This popular restaurant and banquet hall will also cook for a crowd and bring the food to you at home or to your favorite venue. Joanna’s offers Italian cuisine, pizza, fish, ribs and much more.

“Berry” Best Place Around Scantic Valley Farms

327 Ninth District Road Somers 860-749-3286

scanticvalleyfarm.com

This year produced a bumper crop of sweet strawberries in early summer. While you anticipate next year’s harvest, stop by year-round for the farm’s grass-fed beef, pork, and fresh local eggs.

Best Ice Cream

Collins Creamery

9 Powder Hill Road Enfield (860) 749-8663

Facebook: Collins Creamery

This unique venue located on a bucolic hilltop and surrounded by a farm atmosphere was also voted the best ice cream spot in Connecticut in Channel 3’s Ice Cream Social.

Soft serve and hard ice cream –made at the farm – are bound to please any ice cream aficionado.

Don’t be surprised if the resident golden retriever comes by to sit with you.

Best Apple Picking

Johnny Appleseed

185 West Road (Route 83) Ellington, CT (860) 875-1000

johnnyappleseedfarmct.com

There’s 60 acres of dwarf apple trees bearing 14 different varieties at this popular orchard. The 35 acre peach orchard is ripe for picking now. Apples will soon follow – with cider donuts available to boot! Open everyday from now to Thanksgiving.

Best Bakery

Russo’s Bakery

793 Enfield Street

Enfield,CT

(860) 741-7844 russosbakeryct.com

There’s something to satisfy every sweet tooth behind the glassed-in shelves of this traditional Italian bakery. Along with the cannolis, cookies, pastries, and cakes there’s pizza and frozen meals prepared fresh.

Best Donuts

Gerry’s Donuts

180 Windsorville Rd. Ellington, CT (860) 872-0376

Gerry’s has been making donuts for over 35 years. Local customers have called the tiny shop “a local legend” and a “great morning hangout." If DIY is your thing –Gerry also sells the flour used to make his donuts.

Best Supermarket

Big Y

67 Prospect Hill Road, East Windsor (860) 623-4000

135 West Road, Ellington (860) 896-0457

65 Palomba Drive, Enfield (860) 749-5514

87 W Stafford Road, Stafford, CT (860) 684-5029 bigy.com

There’s a Big Y in easy driving distance to all North Central Connecticut towns – and almost 80 throughout

Worthington Vineyard owners Mark and Karen Murdoch of Somers

Connecticut and Massachusetts. The chain, now owned by the grandchildren of the D’Amour brothers who started the family business in 1936, continues to innovate its “super” markets with instore kitchens, specialty butcher shops, open-air produce markets, affiliated “express” stores, and more. No wonder Big Y is at the top of the shopping list for NCC readers.

Best Liquor Store

Joe’s Fine Wine and Spirits

149 North Road, East Windsor, CT (860) 623-7323

43 West Road, Ellington, CT (860) 375-8652

joesfinewine.com

You can expect to find over 1200 wines from all over the world, a variety of spirits and over 500 different beers at Joe’s two locations. Experts on hand will help you make any occasion better by providing you with quality customer service.

Ellington racer wins Monaco Ford 30

Ellington’s Tyler Chapman scored his third win of the 2023 season after holding off numerous challenges from Tyler Barry over the final seven laps of the race to take the Monaco Ford 30-lap SK Light feature on July 20 at Stafford Speedway.

Stafford Speedway photo

Board seeks lake panel members

STAFFORD — The Board of Selectmen are looking for individuals to serve on the Staffordville Lake Advisory Committee. The committee is tasked with the following: possible location of a boat launch; town liability; rules for using the boat launch and while on the water; enforcement and safety; availability of parking during the summer season; and more. If interested, fill out the application and return it to the First Selectman’s Office. Visit https://staffordct.org/news_detail_T4_R217.php for details.

Library news

Aug. 8, 6 p.m. — “Toto the Tornado Cat.” Toto was a stray kitten in Brimfield, Massachusetts, when a tornado struck in 2011. Toto’s rescue story shows the dedication and hard work it takes to save animals in danger.

Paramedic and author Jonathan Hall will read his book, talk about Toto's inspiring story, and give everyone a chance to meet his lucky cat. Register at staffordlibrary.org.

Aug. 12, 10:30 a.m. — Read to the Dogs. Children, ages 5 to 12, are invited to read a short story or chapter of a book to the Bright & Beautiful Therapy Dogs. These dogs are trained to be great listeners. Children are encouraged to bring a book from home that they are comfortable reading, or they may choose one from the library's collection. Space is limited and registration is required at staffordlibrary.org.

Aug. 12, 1 p.m. — Ice Cream Social. Join a fun ice cream social to celebrate the end of Summer Reading 2023. Register at staffordlibrary.org.

Aug. 17, noon — Pokemon Club. Join fellow trainers to talk, battle, trade (with parent’s permission), or show off your collection. This is a child-led program intended for elementary age children. Register at staffordlibrary.org.

Leslie Hickey Owner

Joe’s

Aug. 17, 7 p.m. — Something Old, Something New: Connecticut Weddings Through the Ages. From Colonial to modern times, how did Connecticans tie the knot? How did they celebrate? What did they wear? And how did some of our cherished wedding customs originate?

This program uses the Connecticut Historical Society’s extensive collection of wedding clothing, accessories, photographs, and prints to examine some of our ideas about what makes a “traditional” wedding and what those traditions can reveal about how ideas about marriage have changed through the years. Hosted by the Friends of Stafford Library. Register at staffordlibrary.org.

Aug. 22, 6 p.m. — OASIS (Open Art Studio in Stafford). A monthly open art studio night for adults and teens. This month participants will be making pressed flowers (in the microwave). Materials, including flowers, will be provided, but if you have your own flowers, feel free to bring them too. Register at staffordlibrary.org.

Aug. 17, 6 p.m. — Friends of Stafford Library Meeting. Consider joining the Friends to help support the library’s mission. New members are welcome.

Aug. 29, 6:30 p.m. — Stafford Library Book Club. New members are welcome. A discussion of “The Great Alone,” by Kristin Hannah. Ernt Allbright came home from the Vietnam War a changed and volatile man. When he loses yet another job, he makes the impulsive decision to move his wife and daughter north where they will live off the grid in America’s last true frontier." Copies are available at the library; ebooks and audiobooks are available on Libby and hoopla. Register at staffordlibrary.org.

has a wide selection of brand names as well as craft beer, great wines, whisky and bourbons, and boutique spirits. We have a commitment to excellent customer service, community, and our customers.

Suffield Suffield

SUFFIELD — Oktoberfest will be taking place at Hilltop Farm from 5 to 9 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 7. The event is co-sponsored by the Town of Suffield.

Oktoberfest was one of Hilltop Farm’s most popular events last year and this year promises to be even better. A large tent is being added with a wooden dance floor. There will be games, appetizers and dinner in the barn; drinking and dancing in the tent.

What to expect:

• Music by Organized Chaos of Simsbury.

• Beer and wine, including German

Spaten & Pilsner. Broad Brook Brewery Octoberfest Craft Beer, Cabernet, Pinot Noir, Sauvignon and Riesling.

• Free11 oz. glass Oktoberfest mug.

• Food from Old Country Catering .

• Appetizers of cheese, crackers and fruit.

• Buffet of pulled chicken, pierogi with cheese and potato, brisket, kielbasa, sauerkraut, German potato salad, mixed roasted veggies, tossed salad, rolls and butter. Before Sept 15 it is $75 per ticket, includes food and alcohol (21 or older). It is $60 designated driver, food but no

STEVE CHAMBERS

•

Licensed and insured. Quick and reliable. Winter Services. Relax and call Steve 860-817-4108

alcohol. Need not be 21 or over. After Sept. 15, if tickets are available the prices are $80/$65. For tickets visit Hilltopfarmsuffield.org.

Bottles, crocks, jugs, costume jewelry, pottery, toys, games, glassware, silver plated items, watches, typewriters, sewing machines, tools, radios, clocks, lanterns, lamps, kitchenware, cookware, knives, hunting 昀sh military and more.

DON 860-874-8396

one of Hilltop Farm’s most popular events a year ago, will be returning on Oct. 7.

Photo by Shannon Foley

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