JANUARY 2024

January 2024 Volume 10 . Issue 2 golocalmagazines.com

Check it out THE ORTHOPEDIC CENTER OF CONNECTICUT EXPERIENCE QUALITY ORTHOPEDIC CARE

THE DAILY GRIND A HEALTHY HANGOUT

STURBRIDGE MARKETPLACE

2 GO LOCAL JANUARY 2024

JANUARY 2024 . VOLUME 10 . ISSUE 2

STURBRIDGE MARKETPLACE

17

An old cotton mill in Sturbridge, Massachusetts, has taken on a new life as a vibrant marketplace in a quaint New England town where cotton mills once supported a rapidly expanding textile industry in the early 19th century.

Now called Sturbridge Marketplace at the Falls, the historic cotton mill was purchased in 2007 by Sturbridge Market Realty, LLC. Property owner Eric Rubin.

6

A NOTE From The Editor

DAILY GRIND 11 THE A Healthy Hangout

LOCAL PICKS 14 GO Cool Stuff Just Outside Your Door

MARKETPLACE 17 STURBRIDGE Vibrant Marketplace In A Quaint New England Town

GOLOCALMAGAZINES.COM 3

JANUARY 2024 . VOLUME 10 . ISSUE 2

22

24 27

30 31

11

GO EAT

Winter Cranberry Apple Cobb Salad

THE ORTHOPEDIC CENTER OF CT Experience Quality Orthopedic Care

LOCAL SNAPSHOT Window Frost

LOCAL EINSTEIN Put Your Thinking Caps On

FINAL COUNTDOWN

7 Places To Kickstart Your New Year

24

Buy Center of Enfield • 33 Palomba Drive • Unit #7 • Enfield, CT 4 GO LOCAL JANUARY 2024

17

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A NOTE

FROM THE EXECUTIVE EDITOR . PAYTON NORTH

EXECUTIVE EDITOR Payton North

I have always been interested in setting goals and working toward them, which is everything the new year is branded to be: an opportunity to look ahead at what you would like to achieve and coming up with a plan to achieve it.

I love a good plan. I plan everything. I plan things that haven’t happened yet, things that won’t happen for 5-10 years. I plan for things that will never happen just in case they do.

A lot of times, though, the new year reminds people of the plans they did not achieve in the former year. It can bring pressure to “improve” in many obscure ways.

“I really need to exercise more.”

“I need to learn a new skill or hobby.”

“I have to focus on healthy eating.”

“I need to quit [insert your ‘bad’ habit here]” And while all the above are valiant goals and should be tasks we keep at the forefront…new year’s resolutions can have a special way of making people feel inadequate if not achieved.

At the start of 2023, the only official goal I set was to take more time for myself – in whatever form that may be. Reading a good book, taking spin classes, going on walks with my dog. I reflected that I had been burnt out in the previous year, and I needed to be judicious in taking care of myself.

I can confidently say I did this very well for the first half of the year.

I went on a few trips, visited with friends, read many books, consistently exercised. Then the year took a turn and changed to focusing on what feels like everything but myself.

And that’s OK. There’s the age-old Yiddish expression, “Der Mensch Tracht, Un Gott Lacht,” which means “man plans and God laughs.”

My goal for 2024 is to let go of some of my plans.

Yes, I do see the irony that I’m setting a goal to let go of making goals.

I am not saying I’m letting go of all my goal setting and planning…but I do need to release some expectations.

In the news business, due to deadlines, we spend a lot of time working in the future. We plan for a deadline that’s a week away, but we also plan for a deadline that is two months away. When you are working so far ahead – it’s easy to slip into planning for your personal life in advance as well.

In the new year, I need to find a little more peace with what is, instead of focusing so much on what could be.

I wish you all a peaceful, happy, new year.

Thank you for reading,

-Payton North, Executive Editor

CREATIVE Beth Thurber, Manager Susan Bartlett . Sophia Kelleher Leigh Catchepaugh . Lorie Perry

CONTENT Lauren LeBel

ADVERTISING Scott Greene, Manager Jeanette Lee . Lisa Nolan . Roxanne Longtin Miller Matt Mahaney . Paula Dimauro . Terry O’ Donnell Evan Marcyoniak . Andy Shaw . Hannah Bigos Shannon Bliven Carolyn Napolitan, Sales Assistant Curtis Panlilio, Operations Director Fran Smith, General Manager

THE GO LOCAL COMMUNITY

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A CREATION OF

CONTACT US! 443B Shaker Road, Denslow Road Entrance East Longmeadow, MA 01028 Tel: 413.525.6661

GOLOCALMAGAZINES.COM Send local story ideas to: Lauren LeBel: llebel@thereminder.com 6 GO LOCAL JANUARY 2024

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#THEHOBBY RETURNS TO WESTERN MASS!

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Ring in the New Year

The Gold & Diamond Exchange; 3.75 in; 5 in; 00067952

Old Country Banquets/Amelies, LLC; 3.75 in; 5 in; 00067944

Soul warming Polish Food at the Delicatessen Restaurant & Sandwich Shop Belvedere of East Windsor, served hot with indoor seating or packaged to take home. We also deliver! (With online orders only). Pierogi, kielbasa, kapusta, stuffed cabbage, soups, pastries, potato pancakes, in-house smoked pastrami and brisket sandwiches.

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Cardinal Home Investors; 7.625 in; 5 in; 00067956 “Owner is a Licensed Real Estate agent with EXP Realty”

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10 GO LOCAL JANUARY 2024

DAILY GRIND A HEALTHY HANGOUT ! MIASHA LEE NATE BLAIS

A

t Daily Grind Healthy Hangout in Somers, Connecticut, owner/operator Kelly Bouchard is trying to change the way people think about food.

Before Daily Grind, Bouchard was in the beauty industry for 26 years. She owned a nail salon in Manchester to provide a better future for herself and her family, but then closed the salon in 1997 after her second daughter was born due to staffing issues. Six years ago, Bouchard had back surgery, which unfortunately ended her career in the beauty industry and resulted in weight gain postsurgery.

From 2015-2020 her weight gain and back injury were affecting her quality of life. She explained she had very low energy and chronic back pain that made daily activities challenging. In January of 2020, Bouchard tried a fad diet that she did lose weight on, but landed her in the hospital in July of 2020. During that recovery time, she gained back her weight, and then some. In August 2020, Bouchard was told about a new smoothie shop that had opened. She gave it a try and was hooked instantly. The smoothies tasted amazing, and kept her full for four hours. Bouchard was then advised she could lose weight GOLOCALMAGAZINES.COM 11

with these smoothies. She received her doctor’s approval and that’s when her weight loss/wellness journey began.

Bouchard lost 67 pounds with a protein rich micronutrient meal plan customized to her activity level. She ate five times a day within her macros, which are the nutrients the body needs, specifically carbohydrates, fat and protein.

Bouchard always starts her day with a meal replacement shake. Her favorites are Chocolate Chip Banana Bread and Cherry Garcia. She also moved her body over her journey a minimum of three days a week. She started out walking in the beginning along with at-home exercises to build lean muscle mass. In over three years her fitness program has changed, but always includes cardio along with resistant training.

When the opportunity of owning a smoothie shop and energy bar came up, Bouchard knew she wanted to be a part of it and opened Daily Grind Healthy Hangout on Nov. 25, 2022. “My chronic pain is under control and I’m so excited for that due to leading a healthy active lifestyle,” Bouchard said. “That’s what I help people with.

It’s not as hard as you would think, and I can speak from 12 GO LOCAL JANUARY 2024

experience because I fought it for six years. Pick a wellness journey that is sustainable and that you enjoy.”

Not only does Daily Grind offer plant-based protein smoothies that taste like ice cream, energizing teas, hydrating refreshers and meal replacement shakes, but Bouchard looks to help customers reach their fitness and wellness goals in many ways, such as one-on-one counseling and 21-day challenges.

“I want people to have a healthy relationship with food whether I’m doing one-on-one counseling or just conversations when they come in,” Bouchard said. “I want to encourage a healthy active lifestyle.”

Stafford resident Jennifer Castro heard about Daily Grind Healthy Hangout from an event that promotes new businesses that open locally. She shared she loves what Bouchard is doing with this concept of healthy shakes and promoting healthier lifestyle choices. Her go-to drinks are the Chocolate Mint with whipped cream and chocolate syrup and any energy tea that has peach.

“I feel like every interaction is meaningful,” Castro responded.

“I feel very appreciated as a customer and member of

the local community which leads to conversations each visit about nutrition and creating better habits.” She continued, “Somers is very fortunate to have an inspiring business owner like Kelly Bouchard. Through her personal experiences that she has overcome, she is able to offer much support for the community through conversation, advice, healthier options and products that last beyond that interaction that can ultimately get you to your health goals with her support and guidance. I look forward to each visit and am proud to support this local business.”

Right now, Bouchard wants to expand her team by bringing more staff to the store. Her goal is to be able to spend more time with her family in 2024 if she can find the right teammates. “I found my calling,” Bouchard said. “Going to my shop every day is very rewarding to me because of the wonderful people that come in and I’m always looking forward to meeting new people.”

DAILY GRIND HEALTHY HANGOUT IS LOCATED ON 11 SOUTH RD. THE STORE IS OPEN TUESDAY THROUGH FRIDAY FROM 7 A.M.- 4 P.M. AND SATURDAY FROM 9 A.M.- 2 P.M. GOLOCALMAGAZINES.COM 13

GO LOCAL PICKS

COOL STUFF JUST OUTSIDE YOUR DOOR AND ONLINE!

Photos courtesy of iStock

BOSTON RED SOX “WINTER WEEKEND” MASSMUTUAL CENTER 1277 MAIN STREET, SPRINGFIELD, MA JANUARY 19, 2024 - JANUARY 20, 2024

The Red Sox Winter Weekend is the perfect event for all ages.

The Red Sox are headed to MGM Springfield and MassMutual Center to mark the unofficial start of the season. The event includes a welcome and introduction of the participating Red Sox players, baseball talk, autographs, and photos!

For more information and events visit: mlb.com/redsox/fans/winter-weekend

PENGUIN PLUNGE

LATE NIGHT LASER TAG

HAMPTON PONDS STATE PARK 1048 N ROAD, WESTFIELD, MA JANUARY 27, 2024 • 12 PM - 1:30 PM

SONNY’S PLACE 349 MAIN STREET, SOMERS, CT JANUARY 13, 2024 • 9 PM - 11:30 PM

The Westfield Penguin Plunge is a fundraiser for Amelia Park Children’s Museum. All participating “penguins” solicit donations from friends, family, and local businesses to participate in the plunge. The plunger who raises the most money wins $500! Other Awards include Best Individual Costume and Best Team Costume.

For more information visit: ameliaparkmuseum.org/works/penguinplunge-2024 14 GO LOCAL JANUARY 2024

You don’t want to miss out on this exclusive event at Sonny’s Place! You’ll have access to laser tag, indoor attractions, and the Carousel Cantina Bar & Grill.

Tickets are $35 per person. Make sure to reserve a spot!

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Are you fully protected?

Let’s check your blindspots

SM

Antiques • Unique The Vintage Bee Collective; 3.75 Decor in; 3.25 in; Interior Design 00068104

MAXINE BERNSTEIN AGENCY 413-798-4251 allstate.com/mbernstein 811 Williams Street Longmeadow

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Visit Our Store! Open Thur & Fri 11-2, Sat 10-2 Can’t make it during those hours? Book An Appointment!

49 Maple Street, Somers, CT (860) 809-4454

The Plant Lounge; 3.75 in; 3.25 in; 00067951

hosted by:

Paws Calls; 3.75 in; 5 in; 00067946

Plant Swap & Shop!

Saturday, Jan. 20th • 10am–3pm

Suffield VFW Post 9544 • 972 Sheldon St. • West Suffield, CT

Dr. Kara M. Ryczek Call to schedule your pet’s Veterinary Care In the comfort and safety of your own home!

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LIcensed in CT and MA • Based out of Longmeadow 16 GO LOCAL JANUARY 2024

Mon.-Thurs. 3pm-9pm | Fri.-Sat. 11:30am-10pm | Sun. 11:30am-9pm

BAR OPEN LATE

! KEITH O'CONNOR NATE BLAIS

STURBRIDGE MARKETPLACE A

n old cotton mill in Sturbridge, Massachusetts, has taken on a new life as a vibrant marketplace in a quaint New England town where cotton mills once supported a rapidly expanding textile industry in the early 19th century.

Now called Sturbridge Marketplace at the Falls, the historic cotton mill was purchased in 2007 by Sturbridge Market Realty, LLC. Property owner Eric Rubin, who has more than 25 years’ experience in renovating old mills, has been continuously updating the property for today’s business needs while maintaining the old New England charm of this riverside mill which overlooks the Quinebaug River.

Today the mill property is home to over a dozen successful retail stores, restaurants and offices — including Altruist Brewery, Deep Roots Distillery, Soup to Nuts Café, Into the Grain Axe Throwing, an art and pottery studio called Brush It Off, REB gift shop, a hair salon and an Amish furniture store. It also houses the popular Sturbridge Flea Market which occupies three levels of the marketplace with more than 150 dealers offering custom made Amish furniture, food, home décor and much more.

When looking for a home for her new business, Denise Morgan, owner of Brush It Off Paint & Sip Bar was looking for a place that was centrally located with plenty

of charm for a unique experience — she landed at Sturbridge Marketplace at the Falls.

“Our old mill is a destination place in the little town of Sturbridge that has a whole lot to offer, so many good restaurants, things to do, and nice places to stay. The mill has two outdoor relaxing patios lit up at night, activities all week and music on weekends and oftentimes a food truck can be found. A peaceful fishing river abuts the property with walking trails and a beautiful waterfall all behind us,” Morgan said.

It was Morgan’s daughter, Jess, who introduced her to the concept of “paint and sip,” which is exactly what is sounds like — letting your imagination run free while painting with a brush in one hand and sipping a drink — alcoholic or otherwise — in the other.

“She brought me to a paint and sip near Boston and I found it to be stress free and relaxing, somewhere I could create without being judged as an artist just as many of us often are,” Morgan said, who knew she eventually wanted to bring the idea of a stress-free artistic zone to others closer to home.

“I’ve always been interested in art ever since I was a little kid when my mom would save these big envelopes for me to draw on. When I got older, I went on to attend David Hale Fanning Trade School for graphic design in Worcester and later furthered my studies at Central New GOLOCALMAGAZINES.COM 17

England College, also in Worcester,” she added.

Morgan became a game designer for Hasbro where she created board games and puzzles, then took an entrepreneurial turn doing things on her own such as inventing puzzles which she sold to Mattel.

But, the next phase in her artistic endeavors didn’t begin until 2012 when her desire to open her own paint and sip establishment was greenlighted by her husband.

Brush It Off opened its doors with just painting, whether on your own or taking a class — they have them for kids as well — but now has an expanding variety of paint and sip opportunities available for your entertainment.

You can choose from one of their many professionally guided group painting classes or join them during Open Paint hours, where you have the flexibility to paint your own cool idea or recreate a Brush It Off original design of your choice.

There are also hundreds of ceramic figurines to paint with acrylic paints and take home the same day, or you can pick a functional piece to glaze and pick up in a week or two. They have glassware, wooden cutouts, the chance to learn how to mix resin, and create and pour your own sea glass frame art.

“When we celebrated our tenth anniversary last year, we added a pottery studio with 10 pottery wheels and two kilns where we teach classes,” Morgan said, adding their master potter, David Hebert, has 26 years of experience to guide people in the world of clay.

Also new last year, where the real fun begins, was a Paint Splattering Room where you dress in rain gear, special footwear and goggles and bring your canvas into the room, place it on an easel, and throw away with fluorescent paint and special brushes meant for throwing.

And, of course, as a paint and sip you can imbibe a little as well.

“We have a nice beer and wine bar and offer selections from local brewers such as Altruist Brewing located right in our building and Scantic River Brewery, alongside soda, coffee and juice boxes,” Morgan said.

They also offer prepackaged snacks and patrons are welcome to bring their own treats, but not their own alcohol.

You can even throw your own event or fundraiser at Brush It Off, including private paint or clay parties as well as “travel to you” paint parties. Kid’s parties include a Splatter Room Party, Mega Glitter Paint Party, Canvas Paint Party, Neon Light Making Party and more. Event request forms are provided online.

FOR HOURS AND FEES, CLASSES, SPECIAL EVENTS AND MORE, MORGAN RECOMMENDS VISITING THEIR ART STUDIO AND POTTERY CALENDARS ON THEIR WEBSITE BRUSH-IT-OFF.COM. FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION ON FINDING YOUR ESCAPE AT BRUSH IT OFF, EMAIL PAINT@BRUSH-IT-OFF.COM OR CALL (774) 241-3444.

Which came first — Into the Grain Axe Throwing or Deep Roots Distillery?

“We began our two businesses with Deep Roots Distillery,” said owner Keith Devarenne, who got the idea to 18 GO LOCAL JANUARY 2024

open a distillery in the newly-renovated mill after watching a television show during the height of the COVID-19 on distilleries.

“When I told Errica, my wife what I wanted to do, she told me I was crazy, that I didn’t know anything about it.

My friend, Tom Cane, who is now our business partner, said the same thing,” Devarenne said.

But, he persisted.

“I did my research, there were none in the area. So, I purchased a pot still and began learning the process of distilling. Neighbors told us it was good, so we made the jump to go commercial and it has been going well for us,” Devarenne said.

At Deep Roots Distillery, they pour a line of rum, moonshine, vodka, whiskey, and liqueurs in their tasting room — from their natural spicy Firestorm vodka to their Dead Man’s Chest rum with notes of vanilla, nutmeg, cinnamon and cloves to an All American corn whiskey like taking a bite of an apple pie with its sweet apples and cinnamon, or Not Your Nonnies sambuca with hints of licorice paired with local honey. They also serve up a line of signature cocktails from a Cranberry Mule to Espresso Martini to a Blackberry Smash and many others to choose from. Available spirits can also be purchased on site in 750ml bottles.

For teetotalers or younger visitors, there are mocktails, the ever-popular Shirley Temple, Harmony Springs flavored sodas, coffee, cappuccino, hot cocoa, milkshakes and other non-alcoholic drinks.

While hard alcohol is an acquired taste for some, Devarenne’s answer is, “Come try us.”

“Our spirits have won awards and are smooth and different, something you won’t find on the shelves of a liquor store, and all of our drinks are handcrafted with our own simple syrups,” he said.

They are dedicated to supporting the community by using local ingredients to make their perfect marriage of flavors — partnering with local apiaries and sugar shacks for their spirits and dairies and farms for their small bites menu.

Deep Roots Distillery is not only a place to try something new, but to meet up and commiserate with friends or make new ones while having a sip and enjoying a bite to eat from their kitchen — everything from nachos, loaded tater tots, buffalo chicken dip or even a charcuterie board, and many other treats including ice cream and cinnamon sugar air fried donut holes to hit the sweet spot.

When the space next to the distillery became open, Devarenne decided to rent it and bring some new entertainment fun to Sturbridge and offer an additional option for visitors to Deep Roots.

Into the Grain Axe Throwing was born and now adds to one of the most popular and growing pastime sports, especially in bars, for individuals and teambuilding gettogethers.

“It was more or less on a whim that I decided to go with axe throwing. It seemed like an interesting idea and something fun to do. I had heard about it being offered at other places, but not really around here,” Devarenne said.

GOLOCALMAGAZINES.COM 19

He noted the hatchets are not very heavy to throw and “once you get the hang of it, throwing is easy.”

“Don’t worry if you have never thrown a hatchet. We will give you a brief demonstration as well as safety and other tips and tricks to get you going,” he said.

Lane bookings range in price from $50 to $200 depending on the number in the group, which also determines the length of time for using your lane from 45 minutes for two to 75 minutes for eight axe throwers.

Devarenne recommends reserving a lane by visiting their website intothegrainaxethrowing.com.

“We are very family friendly, whether it is at our distillery or Into the Grain Axe Throwing, where kids accompanying their parents who want to try their hand at the sport have foam axes to throw at special targets,” Devarenne said.

HOURS FOR DEEP ROOTS DISTILLERY AND INTO THE GRAIN AXE THROWING ARE THURSDAY AND FRIDAY FROM 5-9 P.M., SATURDAY FROM NOON TO 9 P.M., AND SUNDAY NOON TO 5 P.M. FOR MORE INFORMATION, YOU CAN REACH DEEP ROOTS DISTILLERY OR INTO THE GRAIN AXE THROWING AT (774) 241-0045.

Going from spirits to beer, Altruist Brewing opened six years ago and will be holding a party on Jan. 12, 13 and 14 to celebrate their success and annivesary.

Altruist Brewing began like many other craft breweries.

Founders Bob and Nancy Bixby started home brewing in their garage. Neighbors would stop by to see what was going on and they shared their passion and some of their delicious elixir with them. Everyone raved about the beer and that gave them the confidence to partner with close friend John Mancini and Altruist Brewing was born in January 2018. Bob, as head brewer, continued with his passion and passed on the art of brewing to his son Cameron and stepson Jared Arpin. Since then, the founders have moved on, but left the business within the family and Cameron and Jared and his wife Shelby Fey now own and run the business.

“I think it is important for people to know that altruist is defined as ‘a person unselfishly concerned for or devoted to the welfare of others.’ We like to share our beer to bring the community together a bit more and give them a space to enjoy. We try to give back to the local community and charities as much as we can,” Fey said.

When looking for a location, the founders knew they wanted a space with loads of character that would be warm and inviting, like Sturbridge Marketplace at the Falls, she noted.

Working nights and weekends for over a year and through their own blood, sweat, and tears, they were able to transform a vacant space in the old mill into what they feel is “a pretty cool industrial space that retained the original character of the building.”

About their many brews, Fey said that they feel strongly that their hand-crafted recipes should be “brewed with love.”

20 GO LOCAL JANUARY 2024

SUBMITTED PHOTO

“We never skimp on quality ingredients, and work tirelessly to maximize flavor and body to elicit a wellbalanced and delicious beer that everyone can enjoy. One thing you can expect when visiting Altruist Brewing is a diverse menu with a wide variety of beer styles,” she said.

Among just a few of their popular brews — their draft list is always rotating — include: • Johnny Fry Double Dry Hopped New England IPA: juicy and hazy with fruity notes of citrus and melon • H8zed & Confewzed New England IPA: heavy citrus aroma, notes of grapefruit, full-bodied, smooth finish • Pucker Face: just enough sour to make you pucker • Not your Grandma’s Pils: light and super crisp Czech Pilsner • Just Deviate Coconut & Vanilla Bourbon Barrel Aged Stout for the holidays: full-bodied, boozy stout that offers a heavy bourbon aroma and a smooth mouth feel, with notes of decadent chocolate, coconut, and subtle hints of oak.

“When we celebrate our anniversary in January, we have some exciting new brews planned for release,” Fey said.

Customers can purchase cans to go in the taproom.

While they are not yet available in stores, she said “to keep a lookout for them coming soon.”

In addition to their brews, they offer a small bites menu full of bar snacks, many of which they source from local businesses — including pizzas and stuffed breads from Francesco’s Italian Bakery, charcuterie boards from Tutti Quanti Italian Market, kettle corn from Kettle & Pine, and soft baked pretzels from Swiss Bakers and many other items. They also allow outside food and there are a few places within town that will deliver or you can have DoorDash bring your order to the brewery.

A full beer — they also offer local artisan flavored sodas, seltzers and kombucha — and bites menu can be found on their website altruistbrewing.com.

To add to a festive atmosphere on some days at the brewery, there is Open Mic Night the first Wednesday of the month, Music Bingo on the last Wednesday of the month, Trivia Night every Thursday, and live music on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays. Check out their website and Facebook for an updated calendar of events.

Although Altruist Brewing does not have a private space for events, they do have some options in the taproom. To learn more, email info@altruistbrewing.com.

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HOURS ARE WEDNESDAY AND THURSDAY FROM 4-9 P.M., FRIDAY FROM 4-10 P.M., SATURDAY FROM NOON TO 10 P.M., AND SUNDAY NOON TO 6 P.M. FOR MORE INFORMATION, CALL (774) 241-8022.

GOLOCALMAGAZINES.COM 21

GO EAT ! RECIPE SUBMITTED BY NATHAN BLAIS

Winter Cranberry Apple Cobb Salad 1 Bag or Box Lettuce Mix of your choice 1 Red Apple 1/2 Cup Craisins 1/2 Cup Shredded Sharp Vermont Cheddar 1/2 Cup Walnuts 1/2 of a Red onion

Add your lettuce mix to a large bowl.

Cut your apple into thin slices, or dice and cover with lemon juice while you prep the rest of your ingredients.

Chop your onion, and shred up about 1/4-1/2 of a block of sharp white cheddar. Add all your ingredients separately on top of your lettuce mix.

Top with a balsamic vinaigrette and protein of your choice!

NATHAN BLAIS I’m a photographer from Springfield. I combined my love for cooking and photography and turned it into a career. Check out my instagram @nateblais!

22 GO LOCAL JANUARY 2024

GOLOCALMAGAZINES.COM 23

THE

ORTHOPEDIC CENTER OF CONNECTICUT

! DENNIS HOHENBERGER NATE BLAIS

T

he Orthopedic Center of Connecticut, led by Dr. Paul Murray and Dr. Michael Aron, is making significant contributions to orthopedic care in the Hartford Region.

Specializing in surgical procedures and treatments for hip, knee, shoulder, elbow and hand conditions, the center has become an essential resource for those with bone and joint disorders.

With over 20 years of experience in the Hartford area and a background from Tufts University School of Medicine, Murray focuses on adult hip and knee reconstruction. He also trains other physicians in Mako SmartRobotics for joint replacements.

Aron, who graduated from the University of Pennsylvania and New York University, has extensive experience in hand, shoulder, and elbow surgery. He often opts for nonsurgical methods but utilizes modern surgical techniques when necessary.

“We’re seeing an increase in hip and knee replacement surgeries, partly due to the aging population and better technology,” said Murray. He highlighted the advancements in materials and surgical techniques that contribute to the longevity of joint implants.

The center’s approach to total hip and knee replacement treatments involves using advanced technology to 24 GO LOCAL JANUARY 2024

replace damaged joints. The advancements have improved outcomes for patients with severe arthritis and similar conditions.

Discussing the evolution of joint replacement surgeries, Murray noted, “The materials we use today have much better wear characteristics. With robotic technology, we can achieve better alignment in joint replacements, contributing to their longevity.”

With locations in Farmington, Enfield, and Glastonbury, the centers serve a broad patient population. Each site is equipped for orthopedic treatments, from surgery to rehabilitation.

“The majority of our patients report improved quality of life after surgery,” Murray stated, emphasizing the reduced pain and increased mobility experienced by patients’ post-treatment.

In addition to their clinical work, both doctors are involved in community outreach. Murray offers free hip and knee surgery seminars, while Aron participates in medical missions and teaches at UConn Medical School.

Murray advocates for the adoption of new technologies like robotic surgery. “Robotic surgery is increasingly important in our field. It offers better outcomes compared to traditional methods,” he said.

The services are comprehensive, addressing a wide array

of orthopedic needs. The center’s success in surgeries, particularly hip and knee replacements benefits a broader range of patients, including younger individuals.

“Our patient demographics are changing. We now perform surgeries on younger patients, thanks to the durability of the new implants,” Murray explained.

Aron’s expertise complements the center’s offerings.

His approach often avoids surgery, focusing on less invasive treatments. However, when surgery is necessary, he utilizes arthroscopic techniques to reduce recovery time.

The center’s three locations are staffed with professionals trained to deliver high-quality care. The focus extends beyond surgeries to include post-operative care and rehabilitation, ensuring patients return to their daily activities as safely and quickly as possible.

Reflecting on the impact of their work, Murray shared, “Patients often tell us how surgery has alleviated their pain and improved their daily lives. It’s rewarding to see such positive outcomes.”

Community engagement is also a priority for the center.

Murray conducts free hip and knee surgery seminars, sharing knowledge and advancements with the public.

The future of orthopedic surgery at the center is closely tied to technological advancements. “Adapting to new technologies like robotic surgery is essential. It improves surgical accuracy and patient outcomes,” Murray stated.

The Orthopedic Center of Connecticut remains a crucial resource for individuals facing orthopedic challenges in Hartford and beyond.

Treating the Whole Body “We’ve seen significant advancements in surgeries like carpal tunnel, where we’ve gone from a big cut to a tiny, one-inch incision,” Aaron noted. He also emphasized the increased use of conservative treatments and arthroscopic surgeries for shoulder issues, improving patient recovery times.

He highlighted the prevalence of overuse injuries in middle-aged patients, especially those not involving surgery. “A lot of elbow problems, like tennis elbow, we can get better without any kind of surgery,” he said, noting that 90% of such cases improve non-surgically.

Aaron added, “Between Murray and myself, we cover the whole body, offering a combination of treatments and surgeries.”

The approach prioritizes accommodating semi-emergent problems and providing outpatient surgeries at convenient locations. The center’s dedication to advanced treatment options, patient-centered care, and community involvement positions it at the forefront of orthopedic care.

THE ORTHOPEDIC CENTER OF CONNECTICUT HAS 3 LOCATIONS: FARMINGTON - 130 BIRDSEYE ROAD ENFIELD - 47 PALOMBA DRIVE, SUITE 202 GLASTONBURY - 31 SYCAMORE STREET, SUITE 202 860-247-3279 • ORTHOCENTERCT.COM GOLOCALMAGAZINES.COM 25

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

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

DID YOU KNOW? WINDOW FROST is formed in a similar way to snowflakes.

Also known as fern frost and ice flowers, window frost is created when a glass pane, like that in a window, is exposed to extremely cold outside air and warmer, moister indoor air. Water vapor then condenses on the glass, subsequently forming frost patterns.

BETH THURBER

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LOCAL EINSTEIN

TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE - NO GOOGLING!

WHAT IS THE MOST ABUNDANT ELEMENT IN THE EARTH’S ATMOSPHERE?

[A] Two [B] Three [C] Four [D] Five

WHO CREATED THE FIRST MODERN-DAY CREDIT CARD IN 1950?

[A] Pabst Brewing Company [B] D.G. Yuengling & Son [C] Anheuser-Busch Brewing Company [D] Jacob Leinenkugel Brewing Company

JUPITER IS THE ROMAN EQUIVALENT OF WHICH GREEK GOD? [A] Zeus [B] Poseidon [C] Hades [D] Ares

[A] Sleet [B] Freezing rain [C] Hail [D] Snow WHICH TEAM WON THE NFL’S FIRST-EVER SUPER BOWL?

IN THE GAME OF BILLIARDS, WHAT IS THE STANDARD COLOR OF THE ONE BALL? [A] Yellow [B] Green [C] Orange [D] Red

[A] Dallas Cowboys [B] New York Jets [C] Green Bay Packers [D] Pittsburgh Steelers

WHAT IS THE OFFICIAL LANGUAGE OF GREENLAND? [A] English [B] Swedish [C] Russian [D] Greenlandic

30 GO LOCAL JANUARY 2024

# CORRECT

IQ

RANK

8-9 5-7 2-4 0-1

160 110 50 3

Prodigy Egghead Meh Simpleton

ANSWERS:

3)B 6)A 9)D

WHAT TYPE OF WINTER PRECIPITATION IS CHARACTERIZED BY SMALL PELLETS OF ICE?

[A] Carte Blanche [B] American Express [C] Master Card [D] Diners Club

2)A 5)A 8)A

WHAT IS THE NAME OF THE OLDEST BREWERY IN THE UNITED STATES?

[A] Nitrogen [B] Oxygen [C] Carbon Dioxide [D] Hydrogen

1)C 4)D 7)C

HOW MANY US STATES HAVE THE WORD “NEW” IN THEIR NAME?

The Final Countdown

All images pictured courtesy of iStock - please visit these shops to see what they have to offer.

7 places to kickstart your New Year’s resolutions PUFFER’S SALON & DAY SPA

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View their list of services online including massages, body treatments, skin esthetics and more!

86 COTTAGE ST, EASTHAMPTON, MA WWW.BOOKMOONBOOKS.COM(413) 203-1717 Is your goal to read more this year? Check out the Book Moon for new and used books. Browse their website to see what’s available.

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200 EVERGREEN WAY SUITE 256, SOUTH WINDSOR, CT WWW.WILLIAMS-SONOMA.COM (860) 644-1990 If your goal is to start cooking more this year, book a cooking class with friends or loved ones. It’s a great bonding experience and a chance to learn a new skill!

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219 SHAKER RD, EAST LONGMEADOW, MA WWW.SWEATPOWERYOGA.COM (413) 224-2626 SWEAT offers 6 different styles of movement classes including SWEAT Sessions, Power Vinyasa Yoga, TRX Yoga, Rol n Flow, Soul Sessions, and Restore & Release.

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