All That's Fall 2023

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By Debbie Gardner dgardner@thereminder.com

According to the Encyclopedia Britannica, the world has King Ludwig I of Germany to thank for this

YOUR ‘‘bucket list’ of fall fun!

Looking for some inspiration to get you out of the house this fall? Here’s a “bucket list” of 20 not-to-be-missed activities to help you enjoy the season!

‡ Eat fair food at the Big E

You have until Oct 1 at 11 p.m. to sample some of the newest fair eats, including the maple hot dog at Ferrindino Maple, the clam fritter doughnut at the Clam Box, Caribbean pizza and frozen Twisted teas at the Sam Adams Beer Garden and the corned beef Reuben wrap at the Storrowton Tavern Soup Shack. And don’t forget to get your Big E Cream Puffs on the way out! Enter through Gate 9 off Memorial Avenue, West Springfield, Massachusetts. Info: www.thebige.com

‡ Or chase the ultimate pumpkin or cider doughnut

For a pumpkin doughnut, you can’t beat the Donut Dip on Riverdale Street in West Springfield. For cider doughnuts, there’s Atkins Farms in Amherst, Randall’s Farm in Ludlow, and of course, your local Big Y!

‡ Get your scare on at the Six Flags Fright Fest

Starting Sept. 23, bring the littles for family-friendly scares during the daylight hours, and get ready for adult chills and thrills after dark. Kids Boo Fest is daytime hours on weekendsadults after dark Sept. 23- Oct. 29. Six Flags New England is located at 1623 Main St., Agawam, Massachusetts. Info: https://www.sixflags.com/newengland/ events/fright-fest-2023

‡ Or on the Rails to the Darkside

Friday and Saturday nights from Sept. 29 through Oct. 28, the Connecticut Trolley Museum, 58 North Rd., East Windsor, Connecticut, transforms its tracks into a very haunted trip! This ride is for scare-seekers 16 years of age and older. Tickets $30; advance purchase required. For tickets and info: https://www.ct-trolley.org/events/rails-tothe-darkside/

‡ Try your skills at Mike’s Maze corn maze in Warner, Massachusetts!

This 8-acre property has something for everyonea corn maze, potato guns, giant Jenga and Connect four, a Pasture Playground and when you get hungry, the Corn Café. Maze opened Sept. 8. For dates, times, tickets, more info: https:// mikesmaze.com/

* For more corn maze experiences throughout Massachusetts visit: https://newenglandwithlove. com/corn-mazes-in-massachusetts/

‡ Sample smooth jazz at the Northampton Jazz Fest

It’s the perfect way to round out September, with shows on Sept. 29 and 30. Check the website for venues and times: https://www.northamptonjazzfest.org/

‡ And check out October’s 31 days of Halloween in Northampton

From a “Practical Magic” movie night to a Halloween Block Party with the Sanderson Sisters to a Witches Day Out Psychic Fair to downtown Trick or Treating, there’s something Halloween-y to do every weekend in October! For info on the events: https://tinyurl.com/2rxhxzdf

‡ Take a trolley ride to the pumpkin patch

The Connecticut Trolley Museum, 58 North Rd., East Windsor, Connecticut, offers a family-friendly ride out to a special pumpkin patch where each child can pick a free sugar-size pumpkin to decorate in the museum when they arrive back at the station! Adults, $15, age 11-17 $14, age 2-11 $13. For tickets and dates/times, more info: https:// www.ct-trolley.org/events/pumpkin-patch/

‡ Or a fall foliage sail down the Connecticut River

The Heritage Riverboat will be operating out of the Riverview picnic area in Northfield, Massachusetts, Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays through Oct. 9. Departure times are 11 a.m., 1:15 p.m., and 3 p.m. Tickets are $15/adult, $14/senior (age 62 and older), $8/age 14 and under. Group price for 15 or more is $14 each. Info and tickets: https://tinyurl.com/38kytysx

‡ Head north for the North Adams Fall Foliage Parade

Slated for Oct. 1 from noon-3 p.m. in downtown North Adams, Massachusetts, this 68-year old fall tradition includes floats, marching bands and lots of fun! It’s part of a daylong celebration of fall that includes a road race, arts and crafts fair and music. Plus, you get a fall foliage trek up the Mohawk Trail to get there!

Info: https://rove.me/to/massachusetts/north-adams-fall-foliage-parade

‡ While you’re in the area, take a drive up Mt. Greylock

At 3,492 feet, it’s the tallest peak in Massachusetts, and offers a breathtaking view of three states from its summit on a clear day. There’s a hiking trail, but the Mt. Greylock Scenic Byway will take you to the top, and Bascom Lodge – a restaurant and inn – by car through mid-October as long as driving conditions remain safe. The Visitor Center is at 30 Rockwell Rd, Lanesborough, Massachusetts

Info: https://tinyurl.com/bnu2dabx

‡ Or check out the Incredible Naumkeag Pumpkin Show

Wednesday to Sunday Sept. 30 through Oct. 29, from 5-8:30 p.m., the grounds of this 19th century mansion at 5 Prospect Hill Rd., Stockbridge, Massachusetts, will be ablaze with 1,500 artfully carved Jack-o-lanterns! Walking tour, expect one hour; grounds are not stroller or wheelchair-friendly and dogs are not permitted. Admission $27. To purchase timed tickets, more info: https://thetrustees. org/program/naumkeag-pumpkin-show/

‡ See how they harvested in the 19th century at Old Sturbridge Village

Beginning Sept. 30 and continuing on select days through Oct. 22, visitors to Old Sturbridge Village can see how crops were harvested and preserved for the winter months, how fields and gardens were put to bed, and what delicious dishes farm families made with their bounty! Celebrating the Harvest events included with admission. The Village is located at 1 Old Sturbridge Village Road, Sturbridge, Massachusetts. Info: https://www.osv. org/event/celebrating-the-harvest-2/

‡ Stroll through Art in the Orchard in Easthampton

Through Nov. 26, Park Hill Orchard, 82 Park Hill Rd., Easthampton, Massachusetts. The 7th biennial Art in the Orchard showcases the work of 33 area sculptors along a half-mile trail through the working orchard and labyrinth. Free, though donations are suggested. Info: http://artintheorchard.org/art

‡ Cheer for your team at a high school or college football game

With Springfield College, AIC, WENU and UMass in the area, there’s plenty of places to get up close and personal with some great football on the weekend. Or take a look at your high school alma mater’s game dates and relive a high school rivalry this fall!

‡ Sample all things garlic at the annual Quabbin Festival

Oct. 1 and 2 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., the 25th annual North Quabbin Garlic & Arts Festival celebrates the “stinking rose” on the grounds of Forsters Farm, 60 Chestnut Hill Farm, Orange, Massachusetts. Visit the 100 exhibitors featuring farm-fresh products, healing arts, crafts, and of course garlic-inspired products! Admission is $5. Info: https://garlicandarts.org/

‡ Visit the South-by-South Hadley Festival Oct. 6-8, South Hadley, Massachusetts invites everyone to their first-ever town-wide festival! The three-day cultural celebration will include exhibits, performances and presentations on the Town Common, South Hadley Falls, churches, libraries and other venues. All events are free! For a complete list of times and events, more info: https:// southhadleyarts.org/

‡ Check out the Paradise City Arts Festival

The annual juried art show takes place on the grounds of the Three County Fairgrounds in Northampton, Massachusetts, the weekend of Columbus Day – Oct. 7, 8 and 9. Come see the works of 220 select artisans, enjoy a quick bite in the Festival Dining Tent, bid on the silent auction items, watch artisans work and more. For hours and admission pricing, more info: https://festivals. paradisecityarts.com/

‡ Head to Westfield for PumpkinFest 2023! Oct. 14 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Boys & Girls Club of Westfield, 28 West Silver St., Westfield Massachusetts, bring the family for pumpkin carving and decorating, face painting, a trunk or treat, the chance to see trucks and more at the Big Rig Rally, shop the craft and vendor fair, see entertainment all afternoon and more! Sponsored by Westfield on Weekends. Info: www.westfieldonweekends.com/series/pumpkinfest

‡ Take a ghost tour in the Berkshires Oct. 7 and 27 at 8 p.m. at Ventfort Hall, the Gilded Age Museum and mansion, 104 Walker St., Lenox, Massachusetts, Robert Oakes, author of “Ghosts in the Berkshires” leads visitors through the halls of the mansion, sharing tales of the hauntings and odd occurrences in its rooms. (This is not an active investigation.) Must be age 12 or older to attend, tickets $30, reservations strongly suggested. Info and tickets: https://gildedage.org/events/ Events list compiled by Debbie Gardner

It’s time to visit your local farmstand!

By Debbie Gardner dgardner@thereminder.com

Whatever the weather, the calendar says it’s the season for fall activities like farm stand visits, corn maze challenges and apple and pumpkin picking.

But given our unpredictable summer, will your favorite fall produce place, or that special pick-your-own farm, have what you’re craving this season? The answer, according to Lisa Goodrich, communications coordinator for the nonprofit Community Involved in Sustaining Agriculture of South Deerfield, Massachusetts, is yes, and maybe.

It all depends on where your favorite haunt is located.

“There’s still plenty of apples, pumpkins, potatoes and butternut squash available,” Goodrich said, adding that though the early spring warmth then freeze event,

and the heavy summer rains did impact some area farms significantly, many farmers throughout the Valley still have their full crops available for fall produce shopping.

Check out your local farmers market and farm stand for the season’s fresh crops of these fall favorites: apples, pumpkins, beets, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, carrots, cauliflower and garlic. You’ll also find seasonal selections of greens, plus leeks, fall lettuce, spinach and radishes, onions, parsnips, potatoes, winter squash, sweet potatoes and turnips.

Goodrich said another fall favorite activity – picking your own apples and pumpkins – will still be widely available, though some farms may have limited supplies or varieties, especially of some types of apples.

“Check the farm website or social media accounts for any changes to their fall picking schedules” before

heading out for a day of picking, Goodrich advised. She added the staff at CISA has been calling area farmers to check on their crop availability and harvest projections, and updating the organization’s interactive online Buy Local guide as new information becomes available. To view CISA’s updated online directory of farms and products, visit https://www.buylocalfood. org/find-it-locally/.

And, as Goodrich pointed out, a visit to your local farm stand or pick-your-own farm means more than just a chance to indulge your tastebuds in the freshest local produce. “Our farmers are resilient and come up with many reasons to engage people, whether its hayrides, corn mazes, cider, cider donuts … there’s lots of fun out there at the farm stands and farmers markets” this fall, she said. “Please support local farms however you can!”

COOKING UP THAT FALL BOUNTY

Looking for some recipe inspiration for that fresh fall produce you just picked up? Here’s a selection of seasonal recipes from the CISA website:

Brussels sprouts

Put a quart of whole Brussels sprouts in a large skillet with two chopped carrots, olive oil, and a little water. Cover the pan and steam them on medium heat until the vegetables are tender. Then remove the cover and stir in 2 tbsp. of balsamic vinegar, 2 tbsp. of honey, and a sliced onion. Add salt and pepper to taste and cook until the mixture takes on a nice browning. It’s perfect as a quick, seasonal side dish.

From Sarah Voiland, who owns Red Fire Farm in Granby and Montague, Nov 2019 Parsnips article on CISA website.

Parsnips

This root vegetable can accommodate all the preparations you’d usually apply to potatoes (roasted with salt, pepper, and olive oil; mashed with butter and garlic; fried and salted; etc.), and their sweetness can make them an interesting counterpoint to savory winter foods like stews and roasts. Creamy parsnip soups are balanced well with additions like ginger and lemon, which cut the sweetness with some spice and acid.

From Valley Bounty, Dec. 10, 2016, written by Brian Snell.

Garlic

Deb Habib, co-owner of Seeds of Solidarity Farm in Orange, shared the following recipe for smoked salmon garlic spread in 2019: Toss roasted garlic cloves in a blender with eight ounces of goat cheese and a ½ cup of smoked salmon. Add salt, pepper and lemon juice to taste and then blend. Spread it on a slice of freshly baked bread for a tasty afternoon snack.

*You can roast peeled garlic cloves in a dry skillet over medium-high heat until slightly brown spotted and soft, about 20-25 minutes, or in a 375-degree oven on a lined baking sheet, sprinkled with a little olive oil, for 40-45 minutes (stirring occasionally).

Smoked salmon recipe from

Pumpkin

Outside the pumpkin’s traditional kitchen lifespan (which begins with canned puree and ends with pie), there are plenty of possibilities when working with whole pumpkin. Cut your pumpkin in half, scoop out the seeds (but save them for roasting!), and bake until the flesh is soft all the way through. Its natural sweetness and nuttiness make it a great addition to savory dishes like chili and hearty soups. You can also try adding it to gnocchi (using it in place of ricotta) or filling ravioli with pumpkin, caramelized onions, and sage; both go great with browned butter and Parmesan.

From Valley Bounty, Oct. 16, 2016, written by Brian Snell.

Valley Bounty March 4, 2019 written by Noah Baustin.

Oktoberfest

popular celebration. The first iteration of Oktoberfest began on Oct. 12, 1810 in Munich as a week-long celebration of the then Bavarian crown prince’s marriage to the Princess Therese von Sachsen-Hildburghausen. That celebration, attended by the entire town, ended with a day of horse races.

The races proved so popular, Munich added them to the following year’s annual agricultural fair, and by 1818, the fair and races included booths for food and drink. And the celebration grew from there.

The modern version of Oktoberfest sees Munich kicking off the celebration in mid-September when the town’s mayor taps the first keg of beer from one of only six breweries allowed to serve during the event, each of which erects its own temporary beer hall. The festival runs through the first weekend in October, featuring food, beer of course, and music, performances, parades, amusement rides and dancing. Oktoberfest draws nearly 6,000 attendees to the Bavarian region of Germany each year. (https://www.britannica.com/topic/ Oktoberfest)

It crossed the pond in the 1960s

We have the residents of La Crosse, Wisconsin to thank for introducing this tradition to America. In 1960, civic leaders were looking to revitalize the community with a festival of some sort to replace an annual winter carnival, which was hard to plan in unpredictable Wisconsin winter weather. Word of the planning reached the ears of two employees of the local Heileman Brewing Company, both of German descent, who suggested the community host an Oktoberfest similar to the one in Munich every fall. The first Oktoberfest in the U. S. took place in La Crosse Oct. 1315, 1961. The rest,

as they say, is history… Western Mass. celebrates

The local German eateries in the region have traditionally hosted Oktoberfest-inspired events, and this year is no exception. Get your beer and brats at these signature Western Mass. events:

The Student Prince Mighty Oktoberfest

downtown

Springfield, Oct. 6-7

The Student Prince, originally opened at 8 Fort St. in downtown Springfield as the Student Prince Café & Tap by German immigrant Paul Schoeder in 1935, has celebrated Oktoberfest in some form for decades. Under the ownership of Paul Picknelly and the late Andy Yee, who purchased the iconic restaurant from Rudi Scherff, son of longtime owner Rupprecht Scherff, in 2014, the restaurant has established an annual Oktoberfest celebration that takes over Fort Street for a food and music-filled weekend each October.

You can celebrate “Mighty Oktoberfest” 2023 with The Student Prince beginning at 5:30 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 6 with music by the Berkshire Mountain Wanderers, followed by the annual tapping of the keg!

The party “keeps rolling down Fort Street all night long” according to the restaurant’s website, “with the most authentic German beers, brats, burgers and more. We’ll have a special selection of food outside, and our full menu available inside.”

The Wanderers will perform Oct. 6 from 5:30-7 p.m., followed by the popular local band, Trailer Trash, from 7:30 to 10 p.m.

On Saturday, Oct. 7, the party continues at 5 p.m. when the Berkshire Mountain Wanderers return to the stage until 6 p.m., followed by American Badass, a Kid Rock Tribute band, from 6 to 7 p.m., Jagged Little Pam, a tribute to Alanis Morisette, from 7:15 to 8:15 p.m. and the Foo Fighters Tribute from 8:30 to 10 p.m.

Admission is $20 for either Friday or Saturday night, or $40 for both nights. Advance tickets, which entitle the

ticketholder to one haus beer from a select menu (must be 21+), are available online at https://www.studentprince.com/oktoberfest

The Munich Haus –An Oktoberfest feast

Oct. 13 & 14, 20 & 21

The Oktoberfest gods smiled on Western Mass. when they brought a second German immigrant to the area to open a restaurant. Born in a small town in Bavaria, Hubert Gottschlict first learned how to prepare traditional German fare at in his parent’s restaurant and butcher shop, enhancing that knowledge with work at a friend’s Munich restaurant serving traditional Bavarian dishes, an apprenticeship with famous German Master Chef Fred Jasper and training in butchering and sausage-making.

Emigrating to the U. S in 1981, Gottschlict first worked at the Student Prince before opening his own restaurant, the Munich Haus at 13 Center St. in Chicopee, Massachusetts, in 2014 with his son, Patrick. And since then, Gottschlict has invited diners to celebrate Oktoberfest each fall with authentic Bavarian-inspired food, music and of course, beer.

This year’s Oktoberfest buffet will include a whole roasted pig, pretzel crusted chicken, sauerbraten, meatballs, sausages, schnitzels, spätzle, sauerkraut, red cabbage, cucumber salad, bean salad, beer radish salad, obatzda cheese with pretzels and a Vienna-style dessert table.

On Oct. 13 and 14, the Berkshire Wanderers will perform from 6 to 9 p.m., and on Oct. 20 and 21, the Vagabonds will perform from 6 to 9 p.m. Advance tickets, priced at $35 per person (tax and gratuity not included) that include on stein of beer, must be purchased online at https://munichhaus. com/2018/09/01/oktoberfest-2021/ or by phone at 413-594 8788.

More local celebrations Six Flags

New England Oktoberfest Food Festival

Sept. 17- Oct. 30

On select dates during this food festival, visitors to Six Flags New England in Agawam, Massachusetts can enjoy a variety of German-inspired dishes at the park’s food stands – including bratwurst with peppers and onions on a roll, kielbasa with sauerkraut on a roll, potato pancakes with apple sauce, Black Forest cake and German chocolate cake. Beers available include Sam Adams Octoberfest, Lienenkugel Oktoberfest, Hofbra Original and more. Info: https:// www.sixflags.com/newengland/ events/oktoberfest-2023

The Springfield Museums

Oktoberfest Oct. 5

The Museums at the Quadrangle give their periodic Culture and Cocktails evening a decidedly Bavarian twist on Oct. 5 when they celebrate local breweries and homebrewers with their own Oktoberfest evening from 5 to 8 p.m. In addition to beer samplings, there will be music by Real DJ TJ Music Entertainment, hors d’oeuvres and a cash bar for other cocktails. Tickets are $20 members, $45 non-members and $10 for designated drivers. Info and tickets: https://springfieldmuseums.org/program/oktoberfest-2023/ 8th Annual Oktoberfest

Massachusetts in Hadley –Oct. 14

The Hadley Young Men’s Club gets into the spirit of Oktoberfest on Saturday, Oct. 14 from noon to 5 p.m. at their Club & Pavilion, 138 East St., Hadley, Massachusetts. Also known as Oktoberfest Amherst due to its proximity to Amherst, Massachusetts, the event features live music, food, vendors, various beers and seltzers along with a full bar. Must be 21+ to attend. Tickets are $15- $30., available online at https:// allevents.in/hadley/oktoberfest-massachusetts-2023/10000652154811597.

* For more Oktoberfest events throughout Massachusetts, visit https:// www.funtober.com/oktoberfest/ massachusetts/

FALL AND WINTER GARDEN PREP: expert advice from the National Garden Association

By Dennis Hohenberger Correspondent

As fall creeps in and winter looms, many homeowners wonder how to best care for their gardens and lawns. Dave Whitinger of the National Garden Association shares his expertise in preparing outdoor space for the colder months.

“First of all, when fall hits, get those trees planted,” Whitinger said. Although many opt for spring tree planting, Whitinger suggested autumn as a better choice. “Typically, the weather is conducive to getting [trees] a little established before the winter hits.

The tree can spend the whole winter getting itself established. By springtime, it gets that head start. While trees are essential, Whitinger highlighted another plant often overlooked in the fall: garlic. “Now’s the time to plant garlic,” he insisted. Unlike other vegetables, garlic should be planted in the fall, allowing it to sprout a few inches before winter’s

dormancy. By spring, the garlic “just shoots out of the ground.” Most are planted in the fall and harvested in late spring or early summer,” Whitinger said.

Diversifying a garden doesn’t stop there. Whitinger pointed out that while spring-blooming bulbs like daffodils and tulips are often associated with spring planting, they, too, should be introduced into the ground during the fall.

The choice of trees is pivotal for New Englanders, who frequently face brutal winters. Whitinger explained that “Most trees, like oaks and maples, are quite hearty,” including fruit trees. He does warn against choosing southern species like crape myrtles.

With garden beds, the approach is somewhat different. “I like to apply a fresh layer of mulch as I’m putting the garden to bed,” Whitinger advised. Cleaning the garden, weeding, and then mulching are essential.

While trimming back perennials is often a popular choice, Whitinger suggested leaving a few seed heads. “Some birds like to scrounge around looking for seeds during winter. Cornflowers and Black Eyed Susans are nice to leave standing for the birds.”

Lawns, a cornerstone of many Amer -

ican homes, are also part of Whitinger’s domain. Despite the National Garden Association’s preference for gardens over lawns, many homeowners value their green spaces. He suggested that “fertilizing in the fall is a good idea. Especially balanced fertilizer.” He added that there’s a misconception about winter dormancy. “All kinds of activity are happening in the soil and underground throughout the winter. So, fertilizing in the fall gives plants that boost they need,” he said.

In the debate between lawns and gardens, Whitinger has a clear favorite. “A lawn is really, if one thinks about it, a garden with only one plant, grass,” he said. Whitinger, however, prefers to promote biodiversity, explaining that a “natural environment contains a mix of different kinds of plants.”

As the leaves start falling, homeowners view them as a nuisance. Unraked leaves can starve a lawn. “It’s good to rake that stuff up,” he said.

Gardeners can reap the benefits of high-quality compost for spring by creating leaf piles. “Take the big pile of leaves and compost, and then in the springtime, add the grass clippings and stir it up. It gets hotter, and you end up with a nice, high-quality compost,” he said.

Whitinger stressed the importance of sustainability. “We don’t like to see leaves go into a landfill,” he said, pushing for more gardens, composting, and an organic approach to gardening align with the natural world.

Whitinger has a final suggestion for those eager to swap gardening tips or seeds. “Winter is a good time to trade seeds,” he said, noting seed swaps where garden enthusiasts can share and learn from each other.

With Whitinger’s expert advice, preparing one’s garden and lawn for fall and winter seems less daunting and more like an opportunity to foster growth, both above and below the ground.

Dave Whitinger’s gardening tips for

fall and winter

Tree planting:

Plant trees during the fall for better establishment by spring.

For harsh winters (like in New England), opt for hardy species like oaks and maples or fruit trees. Avoid southern species like crape myrtles.

Garlic planting and spring blooming bulbs: Plant garlic in the fall so it can sprout before winter’s dormancy.

By spring, garlic will rapidly grow, ready for late spring or early summer harvest. Introduce daffodils, tulips, and other spring bloomers into the ground during the fall.

Garden beds:

Apply a fresh layer of mulch when putting the garden to bed for winter.

• Clean up the garden, weed thoroughly, then apply mulch. While trimming back perennials is common, consider leaving seed heads like those of coneflowers and Black Eyed Susans for birds during the winter.

Lawn care and leaf management:

Fertilizing in the fall is recommended, especially using a balanced fertilizer.

• Avoid the misconception that lawns go entirely dormant in winter; there’s activity in the soil, making fall fertilizing beneficial. Rake fallen leaves to prevent them from covering the grass.

Instead of discarding leaves, create a compost pile. In spring, add grass clippings to the pile, stir, and benefit from high-quality compost.

Sustainability:

• Promote composting and avoid sending organic waste like leaves to landfills. Embrace biodiversity over monoculture, suggesting a garden’s value over a sole grass lawn.

Winter activities:

Engage in seed swaps during winter to trade and share seeds with other gardening enthusiasts.

Get your pet ready for Halloween

Dressing up for Halloween is one of the more enjoyable ways to celebrate the spooky season. It’s not uncommon for people to be planning their costumes well ahead of Halloween, and seeing as the popup retailer Spirit Halloween starts tak -

ing over vacant properties beginning the middle of August, it’s never too early to begin thinking about the thrills, chills and candy to come.

Pet owners often choose to include their companion animals in Halloween festivities. Data from a 2022 PetSmart national survey unveiled that more than 75% of pet parents planned to dress their pets up for Halloween and other fall occasions. Some city-dwelling individuals even planned to match their pet’s fall attire to their own. In 2019, the National Retail Federation estimated Americans would spend $490 million on pet costumes in 2020, which was more than double the figure spent around a decade prior.

Rubies, the largest manufacturer of pet costumes in the U.S. and Europe, shared these statistics in 2022, many of which will stay consistent this year.

• Vermont, New Hampshire, South Dakota, Utah, and Maine are the states most likely to dress up their pets.

A pumpkin, hot dog and bat are

the three most popular pet costumes. Star Wars-themed costumes also are favorites year after year.

Picking the perfect pet costume

There are plenty of costumes and pet clothing designed for pets, but not all of them are recommended by humane organizations or vets. Those who choose to include pets in Halloween festivities should keep these tips in mind when selecting costumes.

Can the pet move properly?

Check to see if the clothing item is sized appropriately so

See PETS on page 9

SET UP THE ULTIMATE STUDENT WORKSTATION

Want to help guarantee your child’s academic success? While you can’t control what goes on in the classroom, you can facilitate their study time at home by setting up an A+ workstation. Here’s how:

Choose a location

Select a location that’s well-lit, preferably with some natural light, and away from noise and distractions. Whether it’s your child’s bedroom or a corner of the dining area, the area should be large enough for all their supplies and tech to stay organized.

Use color wisely

Research has shown that certain colors have the power to boost productivity and creativity or promote a sense of calm. Decorating the space with care could potentially help your student weather crunch periods with ease. You may also opt to

color code binders, dividers and other supplies by coursework so that your child can quickly identify the items they need.

Update tech

Equip the workstation with the latest technology and educational tools. For easy essay composition, your child’s suite of devices should include a tablet or laptop and a printer. To get your student prepped for math and science classes, be sure to supply them with a graphing calculator featuring the latest capabilities. The fx9750GIII, for example, is not only stylishly available in trending colors, it’s capable of programming in CASIO Basic and MicroPython. Python files are easily stored and transferred via USB to a computer. With graph and statis-

See WORKSTATION on page 8

Cold weather’s coming – is your home ready?

By Dennis Hohenberger Correspondent

As the seasons transition from the warmth of summer to the crisp air of fall and the chill of winter, it’s essential to prepare your home for the changes ahead.

Harry Craven, the owner of Highland Hardware in Holyoke, Massachusetts, offers advice for a seamless transition into the colder months. He shares tips to help homeowners ensure their properties remain cozy and well-maintained throughout the fall and winter seasons.

After a mild season last year, the Northeast is poised for a cooler, snow-heavy winter, according to the latest forecast from the Farmers’ Almanac. Early indications suggest December 2023 will kick off the winter season with a bang, as stormy weather and potential blizzard conditions target northern New England.

Residents should brace for a pronounced cold spell as January and February roll around, with central and northern New England expected to bear the brunt of snowstorms, sleet, and ice.

Take care of windows and hoses

Fall and winter prep involves tackling common sense tasks that often slip

people’s minds. Craven highlights the importance of disconnecting, rolling up and storing garden hoses.

Homeowners often forget to pull down storm windows for added protection. “A lot of people just leave them up. They forget about it in the summer. It’s easy enough to do,” he remarked. Ensuring that storm windows are in place prevents heat loss and damage caused by exposure to the elements.

Craven also emphasized the changing nature of window technology in modern homes. Newer homes feature double-insulated glass, which provides better insulation than the older single-pane windows with storm windows.

“Those are the ones you need to take care of and ensure that the cold air doesn’t infiltrate,” Craven advised. He recommended caulking, sealing windows, and using clear plastic window kits to minimize air infiltration, resulting in significant energy savings.

Prepping pipes and winter equipment

As temperatures drop, the risk of burst pipes increases. Craven warned against the potential disasters caused by pipes bursting amid a cold snap. He suggested using foam pipe insulation to mitigate this risk, which prevents cool air from infiltrating and freezing the pipes.

Additionally, Craven recommended readying winter equipment such as snowblowers. Always fill gas cans before a blizzard strikes. Having essential supplies like snow shovels and ice melt on hand can make a substantial difference in managing winter weather effectively.

Wood-burning stove safety

Craven stressed the importance of checking smoke pipes and chimneys for those with wood-burning stoves. Proper maintenance and blockage inspection can prevent potential hazards during the cold months.

“Every home should have a smoke and CO2 detector,” he added, emphasizing the importance of maintaining these detectors and ensuring they have functional batteries.

Thoughts on bird feeders and air conditioners

Craven suggested bringing a touch of nature into the preparation routine by recommending adding bird feeders to your outdoor prep. Observing birds through your window can add a sense of enjoyment to the winter season, he said.

However, he favors removing air conditioning window units at season end. If the air conditioner is too bulky or heavy to remove, cover the outside portion tightly. “But the best thing is to take them out of the window,” he said.

Final tips for fall and winter prep

Harry Craven’s fall and winter checklist:

‡ Make sure that water from gutters drains away from the house. It helps prevent ice buildup and property damage

‡ Drain and roll up garden hoses and store them inside

‡ Insulate pipes near cold walls

‡ Cover or remove air conditioning units

‡ Repair all broken window glass. Caulk where needed around windows. Craven recommends purchasing Mortite kits

‡ Pull down storm windows

‡ Replace furnace air filter and batteries in smoke and CO2 detectors

‡ Good time to repair screens

‡ Purchase gas can and gas for snowblower

‡ Check smoke pipes on all wood-burning stoves

‡ Install driveway markers to prevent damage from snowblowers or plows

‡ Have snow shovel and ice met nearby.

Craven emphasized the significance of clearing gutters and downspouts and ensuring water is directed away from the house. Maintaining proper drainage around your home will help prevent potential property damage and ice buildup, he stressed.

Craven also thoughtfully provided a comprehensive guide for homeowners – new and seasoned – transitioning their properties into fall and winter. As the seasons change, these steps can ensure that your home remains comfortable, safe, and well-prepared for whatever the colder months bring. See the checklist!

Play-it-safe tips to protect young athletes’ feet and ankles

In today’s competitive youth sports landscape, injuries are common, and when they do occur, young athletes are often pressured to play through the pain.

“The back-to-school season is prime time for foot and ankle injuries from fall sports like soccer, football and cross country,” said Richard Baker, DPM, FACFAS, a foot and ankle surgeon and fellow member of the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons (ACFAS). “Fortunately, there are many steps parents, coaches and young athletes can take to prevent injuries from occurring in the first place and to discourage kids from playing through pain.”

Here are eight play-it-safe tips from the foot and ankle surgeon members of ACFAS to help prevent injuries and to treat them properly when they do occur.

Get a preseason checkup

A pre-season medical evaluation can help identify whether your child could possibly benefit from using an orthotic or wearing a supportive ankle brace while playing. This is especially important for those with previous sprains and injuries.

Start the season with new shoes

Old shoes can wear down and become uneven, causing the ankle to tilt. And, as your child’s feet may have grown between seasons, their old shoes may not fit. The

Workspace

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tical functions, exam compatibility mode and a suite educational resources, your student will be well prepared to take on all their STEM coursework and test prep.

smart move is to replace athletic shoes at the start of each season. While children under 10 should wear all-purpose sports shoes, older youth athletes should wear sport-specific footwear.

Train for the season

It’s important that your child’s feet and ankles are accustomed to the level of activity required for the sport. Adequate conditioning in the off-season can help maintain a player’s ability to meet these demands, reducing their risk of injury and improving their performance during the season.

Encourage warmup exercises

Calf stretches and light jogging before competition help warm up ligaments and blood vessels, reducing injury risk.

Check the playing field

Check fields for dips, divots and holes. Ninety percent of ankle sprains are due to poor playing conditions. That’s why some surgeons recommend walking the field, especially in non-professional settings like public parks, looking for spots that could catch a player’s foot. Alert coaching of-

ficials to any irregularities.

Watch their technique

A difference in the way your child is moving is often a telltale sign that something is wrong. Playing with pain is never a winning strategy so encourage kids to be honest

ic program to be vulnerable to sports-related injuries. Foot and ankle surgeons warn of common injuries like plantar fasciitis, bone spurs, fractures and Achilles tendonitis due to repetitive, forceful motions, which can occur in activities such as skateboarding. When skateboarding or engaged in other non-formal activities, always wear protective gear, including supportive shoes, and seek treatment

when there is pain or injury.

Remember RICE

Often, an injured foot or ankle can be treated with rest, ice, compression and elevation. Those with foot or ankle pain should take a break from playing and allow time for recovery. If pain persists, something more serious may be happening, such as cartilage injuries or broken bones in the foot. Consult a foot and ankle surgeon for a complete evaluation, proper diagnosis and treatment plan. The sooner rehabilitation starts, the sooner your child can safely get back into the game.

Prevent clutter

Clutter can pile up all too easily, making it difficult to find notes and assignments. Keep the mess to a minimum with the addition of a few organizational tools. Hang a corkboard to post reminders and to-do lists. Add

about pain or discomfort.

It’s not just sports that can cause injuries

Your child doesn’t need to be involved in a formalized athlet-

wall shelving or a sorting tray to keep papers filed by subject area or due date, and use small baskets or cups to collect erasers, paper clips and other small supplies. Finally, be sure the workstation has its own waste bin, so that items that are no longer needed can be efficiently tossed or recycled.

Consider ergonomics

For more information on pediatric foot care or to find a foot and ankle surgeon near you, visit FootHealthFacts. org, the patient education website of the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons.

By setting up a dedicated homework area designed for productivity, you can help your student make the grade.

Article courtesy StatePoint Media

Eliminate distractions by making sure the workstation is ergonomic-friendly and comfy. If your child sits at a desk, ensure their computer monitor is at eye level and that their feet touch the floor. Adjustable laptop tables can transform a makeshift work area on the couch or bed into a comfortable workstation.

Get your party on! Halloween fun, adult-style

Halloween may seem like child’s play, but many adults participate in Halloween hijinks.

According to the National Retail Federation, $1.7 billion was spent on adult Halloween costumes in 2022, while $1.2 billion was spent on kids’ costumes. Witches, vampires, ghosts and pirates top the list of popular costume categories. When all dressed up, adults will need some place to have fun, and parties with friends typically are events that fill not only Halloween itself but the days leading up to it. Those who will be planning Halloween parties for adults may be inspired by these frighteningly fun ideas.

Hallowine Time

Make a Halloween party even more spirited with a wine-themed party. Guests will enjoy a wine tasting with various offerings. Party hosts can try to find wines with macabre-sounding names.

Classy gathering

While Halloween may be about ghastly and ghostly decorations in many cases, some party hosts may want to have parties that offer subtle nods to Halloween instead. Black-and-whitestriped plates on orange or purple chargers can set the tone for a fancy Halloween fete.

Murder Mystery Party

Murder can be the name of the game for a Halloween party when guests have to follow a script and figure out “Who done it?” Some of the biggest challenges with this type of party is creating the characters and writing the storyline. Free printable scripts make it easier for event planning. Murder Mystery themes also can be included in office parties for team-building activities.

Ghouls Night Out

Girlfriends can get together and plan a coordinated costume theme and then have a girls night out by visiting various bars or restaurants around town.

Scary Surgeon

Plan a party around a mad scientist or scary surgeon concept. Decorations and foods can be geared around the idea. Instead of Jello shots, for example, there can be syringe shooters filled with a similarly spiked mixture.

Replicate the look of body parts with various foods, like hot dogs made to look like cut fingers or toes. Halloween party ideas for adults

A little inspiration

ensure such parties are frighteningly festive.

Pets

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that it is not restrictive. Make sure the pet can walk properly, jump, groom, and relieve itself. Do not leave pets in costumes for too long, as they may affect the animal’s ability to control body temperature.

Is your pet stressed?

Look for behaviors that may indicate the pet is stressed by wearing the costume. Pets feeling anxious may groom excessively or make more noise than usual. Dogs may pant a lot or yawn. If a pet is pawing or pulling at the costume, it might be making the animal uncomfortable. Dogs tend to be more tolerant of costumes than cats, though each pet is unique.

Can body language be relayed?

Pets use body language to communicate with other animals. Costumes could interfere with that ability. If the pet will be wearing the costume indoors and not in proximity to other animals, it may be fine. Pets who will be walking outdoors and come into contact with other companion animals might act differently and other animals may act aggressively when faced with a pet

in a costume. Is it safe?

Choose costumes that do not impede the pet’s vision or its ability to walk. Select materials that are fire-retardant and nontoxic.

abound.

can

Article courtesy Metro Creative Graphics

Pet costumes are quite popular on Halloween, and pet parents can have fun celebrating while also keeping pets’ comfort and safety in mind.

Article courtesy Metro Creative Graphics

Halloween craft ideas for kids

imagination, whether that involves choosing a clever costume or helping design the theme and scope of home decorations.

Parents, guardians and educators can channel the creativity inspired by Halloween into various craft projects. Crafts can not only keep children busy when the “I’m bored” lamentations inevitably turn up, but crafts also are a way to keep children off of screens. Plus, the items that children create can be used to decorate rooms in the house – helping to curb added expenses on commercial decor.

The following are some Halloween crafts children can make alone or with the help of older siblings and parents.

Jack’s slime

The toothy grins of Jack-o’lanterns can be seen just about everywhere come Halloween, and the bright orange color of pumpkins heralds the start of fall. What better way to say “Halloween is here” than with a craft that can be displayed and also played with?

Slime is something that’s always a big hit with kids. Here’s a reci-

pe for slime, courtesy of The Best Ideas for Kids.

Ingredients:

• 6 ounces of Elmer’s glue (substituting with another brand of glue may not produce the same results)

Orange food coloring to create desired hue 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda 11/2 tablespoons of contact lens solution (one that contains boric acid in the ingredient list, as that is what causes the chemical

reaction to form slime)

• Optional: 2 tablespoons of water added to the glue before the baking soda if you desire a stretchier slime

Black felt or black construction paper, cut into the eyes and mouth of a jack-o’-lantern

Small mason jar with lid

Method:

Decorate the mason jar using a bit of glue to stick the black paper or felt face pieces to the outside of the jar. Mix all the ingredients of

the slime in a small bowl and pour into the decorated jar.

Have some stretchy, slimey fun!

Forest spider

Take a trip to a nearby forest or wooded trail and gather up round pine cones that have fallen. Purchase brown pipe cleaners and cut four of the cleaners in half to form eight legs. Glue the legs on the pine cone and attach several small googly eyes and two larger ones to form the eyes of the spider.

borhood trick-or-treaters. Cover the bottoms of the rolls with masking tape so treats won’t fall out. Paint the outside of the cardboard rolls and let dry. An alternative is to cover the rolls in colored paper for less messy fun. Then use markers or paper cutouts to form faces of the monsters. Fill the rolls with treats, then stuff a piece of tissue paper in each top to add even more personality to the creations and hide the treats inside.

Ghostly leaves

Make a truly eco-friendly craft on Halloween, with ghosts made out of leaves, eliminating the need to use extra paper. Paint large leaves with white paint. On the narrow-most point on top of the leaves, paint black eyes and mouths. When completely dry, scatter on a table or sideboard for some scary fun, or use double-sided tape to stick to windows and doors.

Article courtesy Metro Creative Graphics

A little creativity can turn paper tubes into treat holders.

Photo courtesy Metro Creative Graphics

Delicious, no-fuss dinner ideas for the Back-to-School season

Whether it’s shuttling the little ones to their after school activities, or helping older students cram for their exams, families get super busy, quickly when kids return to school in fall. But that doesn’t mean you can’t regularly sit down together for weeknight dinners.

“Parent-chefs can effortlessly turn up the flavor by relying on single-use spice packets. They take the guesswork

out of creating the perfect combination of seasonings and can make whipping up weeknight dinners during the back-toschool season so much easier,” said Glen Schutzman, vice president marketing, Convenient Meals, McCormick.

To help make the transition a little bit easier and a little more delicious, McCormick, a global leader in flavor, shared its recipe for Taco Casserole, which can be

prepared in just 30 minutes with seven simple ingredients. A great way to switch up your taco night, this family-pleasing dish, which has the potential to become a mainstay in your recipe repertoire, incorporates McCormick Original Taco Seasoning Mix. Adding a vibrant, Southwest kick to any dish, use this classic seasoning mix to spice up soups, chilis, casseroles, fajitas, dips, nachos and of course, tacos.

Taco Casserole

(makes 6 servings)

Instructions:

Ingredients:

1 1/2 pounds ground beef or ground turkey

1 package McCormick Original Taco Seasoning Mix

1 can (16 ounces) pinto beans, drained and rinsed

1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce

1 can (11 ounces) whole kernel corn or Mexican-style corn, drained

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

1 cup coarsely crushed tortilla chips

Preheat oven to 400 degrees F. Brown meat in large skillet on medium-high heat. Drain fat. Stir in seasoning mix, beans, tomato sauce and corn. Bring to boil. Reduce heat to low; simmer 5 minutes. Spoon into 2-quart baking dish. Sprinkle with cheese and tortilla chips. Bake 5 to 10 minutes or until cheese is melted. Serve with assorted toppings, such as sour cream, cilantro and avocado, if desired.

To shop spices and seasoning mixes, and for additional recipes and weeknight inspiration, visit mccormick.com/recipes.

Don’t let the hectic back-to-school season overwhelm you. With simple ingredients, you can put together tasty dinners that will win over family members of all ages.

Article courtesy StatePoint Media