GO LOCAL MARCH 2022

March 2022 Volume 8 . Issue 4 golocalmagazines.com

Paws Calls

in-home veterinary visits

Kestrel

rustic - modern - goods

CT Valley Mineral Club

Check it out

Jersey Mike's

rocks, minerals, fossils and more

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2 GO LOCAL MARCH 2022

new this month MARCH 2022 . VOLUME 8 . ISSUE 4

PAWS CALLS Dr. Kara Ryczek knows the stress that a trip to the veterinary office can cause animals. To alleviate that anxiety, pet owners can call Ryczek to have their furry – or fuzzy or hairy – family member seen in the comfort of their own home.

13

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A NOTE

13

PAWS CALLS

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KESTREL

From The Editor In-Home Veterinary Visits Rustic - Modern - Goods

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MARCH 2022 . VOLUME 8 . ISSUE 4

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a note

FROM THE MANAGING EDITOR . G. MICHAEL DOBBS

When I was a kid, I loved rocks.

I still love rocks.

I was the kind of kid who was easily distracted by seeing a shiny bit of quartz poking out of the dirt. I collected interesting stones and was absolutely fascinated by items such as fossils as well as Native American artifacts such as arrowheads.

The idea of holding in my hand an object of antiquity or prehistory was thrilling to me and I seldom passed up an opportunity to add to my collection.

It didn’t hurt my budding enthusiasm for such items, that Western Massachusetts is known as a center for dinosaur footprints.

On a cross-country trip from Massachusetts to California we traveled through New Mexico and Arizona, and I still have the collections of minerals and rocks that were sold to tourists such as me.

My grandfather worked as a logger and miner in northern California and with great pleasure my mom and grandmother brought me to the remains of the mining village in which they lived and where he worked in a copper mine. I picked up a piece of copper ore for my collection and still have it.

When my wife and I visited Loch Ness in Scotland in the hopes of spotting the monster, my consolation prize was picking up several small stones from the shores of the lake.

For years, my wife and I attended the annual East Cost Gem, mineral and Fossil show presented at the Better Living Center at the Big E. Talk about an amazing experience every time! The show is a huge collection of exhibits and vendors who sold everything from finished jewelry to materials to make your own jewelry to mineral specimens to fossils.

Want a six-foot-long fossil of a prehistoric fish? That’s the place to find it.

Want a cluster of fossilized dino eggs? I sure do. That’s the only place I’ve ever seen them for sale.

So, reading in this month’s Go Local about the Connecticut Valley Mineral Club was a lot of fun, as these are people with the same love as I do. I intend to go to the club’s own show, which will be March 26 and 27 at the Castle of Knights in Chicopee.

Also in this issue is a listing of local maple sugar destinations. For me there are few better harbingers of spring than maple sugaring time. There is also no comparison between actual maple syrup and the corn syrup-based fake maple dreck that most people use.

Sorry, but actual maple syrup is simply divine and getting it straight from the source is well worth the trip.

Spring is coming and the road trips suggested by Go Local will shake off the last of the winter doldrums.

6 GO LOCAL MARCH 2022

- G. Michael Dobbs, Managing Editor

MANAGING EDITOR G. Michael Dobbs

CREATIVE

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

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Paws Calls D

r. Kara Ryczek knows the stress that a trip to the veterinary office can cause animals.

To alleviate that anxiety, pet owners can call Ryczek to have their furry – or fuzzy or hairy – family member seen in the comfort of their own home.

Ryczek’s business, Paws Calls, is located in Longmeadow and offers in-home veterinary visits within a 20-minute radius in both Massachusetts and Connecticut. While Ryczek had the vision for her mobile vet business prior to the pandemic, she saw an increased need once Covid began to take effect.

“I had been practicing for 20 years by then, and I felt I had the confidence and experience to go out on my own,” Ryczek said. “Starting a mobile practice was a decision based on community need as well as allowing GOLOCALMAGAZINES.COM 13

for a flexible work schedule. Having two children with many school and extracurricular activities can be difficult to manage when working a traditional 40-hour work week. I was also excited to start my own practice, and manage both the business and medical side on my own.

“The pandemic hit about one month after I opened Paws Calls, which actually was good timing. Veterinary hospitals were not taking on any new clients, owners had to wait outside hospitals while their pets were seen, as well as many families adopting new pets! I think owners realized this setup was easier for them to schedule appointments as well as less hectic and stressful for everyone.”

Ryczek grew up in Longmeadow and graduated from Longmeadow High School in 1992. She went on to Trinity College and earned a Bachelor of Science in Biology, with a minor in environmental studies.

An internship at a small animal hospital during her senior year set her on a career path that sparked her passion for helping animals.

“I decided that veterinary medicine would be a great fit for me. It is a career that demands both compassion, intelligence, ability to multi-task, as well as work with people and animals every day. Most people forget that 90% of veterinary medicine is actually working hand-in-hand with people,” she said.

Ryczek went on to Tufts University and graduated with a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine in 2001. She embarked on a 13-month rotating internship at VCA South Shore Animal Hospital in medicine, surgery, and emergency care.

“After my internship, I worked with companion animals 14 GO LOCAL MARCH 2022

“I truly enjoy working with families in their home environments,” said Ryczek. only in both privately owned small animal hospitals as well as a few larger emergency care facilities,” she said. “Once I was married with two children – Lincoln, 10 and Beatrice, 8 - I scaled my schedule back to part-time. This allowed me to juggle my life as a mom and veterinarian. It is a great profession to allow for a healthy work/life balance.”

Seeing pets in a setting they’re comfortable in can make a difference.

“I truly enjoy working with families in their home environments,” said Ryczek. “This is much less stressful for the pets as well as their owners. People really appreciate the convenience and level of care they receive at their homes.

They can call or text me on off hours, and actually talk to a Doctor. I enjoy having the flexibility of managing my daily appointments, which makes life easier as a mom and long distance runner.”

Ryczek cannot perform invasive surgeries or complicated procedures at this time, but she said that dental procedures will be next on her list of additional equipment this year.

“Thankfully, there are a few very good referral hospitals in my area, as well as a hospital that will cover my spays and neuters,” she said.

Paws Calls is taking on new clients, with set appointments from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Monday-Friday, as well as emergency visits as availability allows.

To make an appointment, email dr.pawscalls@gmail.com or call 617-797-3070.

GOLOCALMAGAZINES.COM 15

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E

liza Jane Bradley, owner of Kestrel in Northampton, is thrilled to celebrate her shop’s 10-year anniversary in 2022 in the town where it all started.

Bradley started her career in Northampton, working at Roz’s vintage clothing shop. When the owners took her to a trade show in New York City, she was hooked on fashion. Bradley moved to Colorado where she was a buyer for Buffalo Exchange, then enrolled in the Art Institute for Fashion Design in San Francisco.

Throughout her career, Bradley yearned for her own store.

“My entrepreneurial interest continued to grow and the seed of having my own shop ‘in the future someday’ was planted,” Bradley said.

After college she worked for two independent children’s clothing brands.

“I learned from working in small businesses that one must be able to

wear many hats,” she said. “I worked in product development plus design, managing wholesale accounts, graphic design, e-commerce and helped open a small retail shop in San Francisco’s Mission District.

“The work was diverse, challenging, and I learned a lot, but I was ready for a change. I kept coming back to the idea of working for myself and wanted to make it happen.”

Bradley said she had no idea how to start so she took a 12-week intensive business development class.

“It was there that I really finetuned my vision, learned to write a proper business plan and, most importantly, gained the confidence to take the leap,” said Bradley.

Taking that leap was a bit easier close to home and she recalled how much she enjoyed her retail experience in Northampton.

“Growing up in western Massachusetts and knowing what a wonderful town Northampton is,

GOLOCALMAGAZINES.COM 19

I knew it was where I wanted to be,” she said. “Many of the small independent shops that I grew up going to have been around for decades. The town has a deep appreciation for handmade craft and truly values the arts.”

Although Bradley’s career was in clothing for many years, she wanted to explore her love for home decorating and interior design in her own shop and said it’s impossible to live in California and not be inspired by all the incredible plants.

“The concept of the shop was brewing in my head and there was nothing quite like it in my hometown so it felt like the perfect place to do it,” she said. “I feel so grateful that it has resonated with people as much as it has. We truly have the best customers and having the shop has been a dream come true.”

Bradley’s California influence is obvious inside Kestrel, where there is a light and airy vibe.

“Always inspired by nature, I wanted to create a space that was light, warm and inviting with a modern organic atmosphere,” said Bradley. “I love to bring natural materials into the space and displays like reclaimed wood, tree branches, drift wood, concrete shelving and lots of lush plants, creating more of an experience when shopping. Many of our customers say that coming in to the shop makes them ‘just feel good,’ and they ‘just want to live inside the shop’ -- Best.

Compliment. Ever.”

Bradley said curating the merchandise and the space is fun, and choosing the products is an intuitive 20 GO LOCAL MARCH 2022

process. She has always loved art, design and gift giving, so she seeks out beautiful and unique products she thinks people will like either for themselves or to give as a special gift.

Most of the merchandise is handmade by independent artists and designers in the USA with a little bit from makers overseas. It’s an eclectic mix of ceramics, home decor, jewelry, textiles, kitchen goods, baskets, apothecary, books, candles, artwork, children’s items, seasonal local flowers and more.

The name Kestrel was after Bradley’s beloved late stepfather who was an avid falconer.

“We had many birds of prey over the years as I was growing up. From red-tailed hawks to peregrine falcons to a kestrel,” she said. “The hawks were heavy and a bit intimidating but I fell in love and formed a special bond with our kestrel named Little Wing.”

Plants, jewelry, and all things self-care are the most popular Kestrel products.

“With people staying home more during the pandemic we are finding people wanting to refresh their spaces with beautiful things -- anything to make time at home more peaceful and enjoyable,” said Bradley.

Houseplants continue to be popular.

“We’ve seen a surge of interest in big, leafy green foliage and trailing varieties,” she said. “Plants like philodendrons, pothos, monsteras -- which are notorious for their easy and forgiving nature. These fast growing houseplants are great for beginner or experienced plant lovers looking to add greenery to their home, dorm room, office -- or zoom back drop.”

In terms of jewelry trends, Bradley said it's been such a hard couple of years and she is noticing folks wanting to treat themselves or gift something that is memorable and lasting.

“We couldn't say more about self-care that hasn't already been said the last two years,” she added. “However, things that smell divine -- soaps, perfume, incense, candles - add to your atmosphere or help you turn-off for the day have been key for our customers this year and leading into the spring.”

Kestrel, 22 Masonic Street, Northampton is open Monday-Thursday 10 a.m. – 6 p.m., Friday - Saturday 10 a.m. – 7 p.m. and Sunday 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.

GOLOCALMAGAZINES.COM 21

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go local picks

COOL STUFF JUST OUTSIDE YOUR DOOR AND ONLINE!

ANCHOR HOUSE OF ARTISTS GALLERY SHOW BY PETER KNAPP

MARCH 5 – MARCH 30 - OPENING RECEPTION FRIDAY MARCH 11TH 6-8PM 518 PLEASANT STREET, GROUND FLOOR, NORTHAMPTON, MA Peter Knapp, a 71-year-old artist from Sunderland Massachusetts (https:// www.peterknappart.com/), is having a large art exhibition in Galleries One, Two and Three at Anchor House of Artists in Northampton Massachusetts March 5th – March 30th with the theme “Healing ● Awakening ● Resolution”. Opening Reception is Friday March 11th 6-8pm. Show attendance is subject to current COVID-19 protocols. The artist’s work has confronted and portrayed issues with depression and anxiety, moved on to embrace and explore topics involving the community and humanity, and established a 3-part resolution to finish earlier work in his career, create a cohesive portfolio in a variety of media going forward, and continue to explore issues involving life, philosophy and the spiritual.

The Anchor House of Artists is located at 518 Pleasant Street ground floor, Northampton, Massachusetts and on the web at: AnchorHouseArtists.org ; Telephone: (413) 588-4337, Gallery Contact: Michael Tillyer

MAPLE SYRUP MAKING DEMO AT HILLTOP FARM IN SUFFIELD SUNDAY, MARCH 6, 2022 AT 11 AM – 2 PM 1616 MAPLETON AVENUE • SUFFIELD, CT 06078 Although maple sugaring may happen once a year, the sweet taste of maple syrup and sugar can be enjoyed year round. It is often a community event.

The process of making maple sugar, or sugaring, starts with collecting the maple sap from the trees in late winter. Once the sap is collected and has been strained, it is time to boil. This is a long process because the boiling sap must be watched to prevent it from boiling over or burning. The general rule of thumb is that it takes approximately 40 gallons of sap to produce 1 gallon of syrup. The sap is mostly water and a large quantity of steam is produced in the reduction process. Once it reaches the desired density, the syrup is filtered for removal of sediments and then bottled. Sometimes the syrup is boiled down further to get maple sugar. If you would like to see the maple syrup making demo, join us at Hilltop Farm, Sunday, March 6 between 11:00am and 2pm. For more info: HilltopFarmSuffield.org

24 GO LOCAL MARCH 2022

69TH HOLYOKE ST. PATRICK’S PARADE

WATCH IN PERSON OR BROADCAST LIVE AT NOON ON WWLP-22NEWS

SUNDAY, MARCH 20, 2022 STEP-OFF 11:10 A.M. FROM THE FORMER KMART PLAZA The St. Patrick’s Committee of Holyoke is thrilled to announce that after a two-year hiatus due to the COVID pandemic, the 69th Holyoke St. Patrick’s Parade will be held on Sunday, March 20th. In order to arrive at Holyoke High School in time for the noon broadcast, the Parade will step-off at approximately 11:10 a.m. from the former Kmart Plaza.

Parade spectators who usually watch the event along Northampton Street will need to note the earlier start time. The parade’s website, www. holyokestpatricksparade.com, will provide all the details regarding the time change and parade route.

In addition to the Parade on March 20th, the 45th St. Patrick’s Road Race will be held on Saturday, March 19th.

For more info: holyokestpatricksparade.com

T

‘

is the season of giving.

At least for Jersey Mike’s Subs across the country in March.

Since 2011, Jersey Mike’s has recognized March as “Month of Giving” when franchisees and team members, supported by generous customers, have raised more than $47 million for local charities of their choosing.

“Last year Jersey Mike’s Subs raised an incredible $15 million to help more than 200 charities nationwide including youth organizations, food banks, hospitals and more. Our stores raised $17,000 for the Make-A-Wish Foundation which allowed for two grants to be made,” said Jersey Mike’s Subs franchise owner Ken Schanke whose stores are located in Manchester, Rocky Hill, Middletown and the newest Enfield, which opened in November last year.

This year, for the first time in their 12-year history of Month of Giving, Jersey Mike’s owners and operators nationwide will support a single cause, the 2022 Special Olympics USA Games. For over 50 years, Special Olympics has been empowering athletes and encouraging a more inclusive world for those with intellectual disabilities and beyond.

The 2022 Month of Giving campaign will peak with “Day of Giving” on Wednesday, March 30.

On that day, 100 percent of sales will be donated to the 2022 Special Olympics USA Games and the local state programs attending the USA Games from June 5-12, in Orlando, Florida. Every four years, more than 5,500 athletes and coaches from all 50 states unite to compete in 19 sports including athletics, gymnastics, swimming, tennis, basketball, flag football and many more.

“We hope to raise $50,000 this year and one additional way we intend to reach our goal is by asking customers at the register for a $5 donation and in return we will give them a “Buy One, Get One” card to be used when they return,” Schanke said.

Schanke opened his first Jersey Mike’s franchise in 2018 in Manchester after leaving behind a 23year career with AT+T. “I was looking for something to do that had a passion behind it,” Schanke said.

He found that passion at Jersey Mike’s.

“I was on vacation in New Jersey and before heading home I stopped into Jersey Mike’s Subs in Point Pleasant, home of the original sub shop.

When I saw them freshly slicing the meats and cheese that were going onto my sandwich, it reminded me of another Jersey deli when I was growing up. I was amazed by the passion of the staff as I went through the line to the cash register.

! KEITH O'CONNOR  NATE BLAIS

GOLOCALMAGAZINES.COM 25

They talked to you along the line and brought a real passion to the experience,” Schanke said. “For more than 35 years, I have had this passion for giving to the community, just like Jersey Mike’s founder Peter Cancro, who bought his first sub shop at age 17,” Schanke said.

It all started back in 1956, when Mike’s Subs opened as a storefront location in the seaside town of Point Pleasant, offering what was relatively new at the time - a submarine sandwich. The shop offered unparalleled service, with crews recognizing customers by name, and knowing the sandwich they were going to order because of their frequent visits. People would line up throughout the summer to buy the high-quality sub sandwiches, and enjoy the experience of coming into the shop.

Cancro was a high school student when he began working at Mike's Subs at the age of 14. He loved working at Mike's and making authentic submarine sandwiches. But even more, he loved working behind the counter, interacting and talking with the customers.

He liked learning about where they were from and their summer vacation experiences. He took pride in knowing which authentic sub sandwich his loyal customer would order as they entered the store. When Cancro was a senior in high school, he overheard the owner of Mike's Subs discussing selling the business. He thought to himself, "I love the food, I love working in the store, maybe I'll buy the shop." According to the company’s website, he approached his football coach and said "Hey coach, Mike's Sub shop is for sale, and I'm interested in buying it. Can you help me out?" It didn't hurt that his football coach was also a banker. The football coach came through for him, and backed his loan. So, at the tender age of 17 – before he was legally able to slice a sub – Cancro became the owner and proprietor of Mike's Subs.

Today, Cancro is CEO of Jersey Mike's Franchise Systems Inc., overseeing more than 2,000 locations nationwide.

Schanke said that Jersey Mike’s mission is “Giving...

Making a Difference in Someone’s Life.” In describing their culture of giving - what Cancro calls “giving to give” - it is the philosophy of Jersey Mike’s that you shouldn’t give for the accolades...or the back pats, or the tax breaks.

As their website explains: “We think you should give for one reason and one reason only: to give. Our culture of giving at Jersey Mike’s is as much a part of our heritage as oil and vinegar. We believe that making a great sub sandwich and making a difference can be one in the same. Every store we open starts by partnering with a charity in the local community. Because the way we see it, a sub’s job isn’t done at simply tasting good. A sub should do good too.”

Cancro credits two local businessmen in Point Pleasant Beach where he grew up — Jack Baker of Baker’s Lobster Shanty and Bob Hoffman of Hoffman’s Ice Cream — with showing him the importance of giving 26 GO LOCAL MARCH 2022

unconditionally to the community.

“It’s that authentic commitment to making a difference that first attracted me to the brand,” Schanke said. Schanke’s own “give to give” philosophy is evidenced through his more than 30-year involvement with an orphanage in Juarez, Mexico, where he has made multiple service trips with his family and serves on the board. And, when opening his first Jersey Mike’s, Schanke offered a free sub to anyone donating a minimum of $3 to the Enfield and Somers high schools.

What makes Jersey Mike’s “A Sub Above” - as their brand slogan proclaims - is the quality and freshness of their product, Schanke noted. Everything is quickly made to order for each customer, just the way the first subs were made at the original Jersey Mike’s 66 years ago.

“Our meats are lean and antibiotic free and our roast beef is USDA Choice Top Round, and along with our cheeses they are sliced on the spot right in front of our customers. Our veggies are fresh and sliced every morning. And you can watch your cheese steaks grilled right before you,” Schanke said.

Sub lovers can also choose to have their sandwich “their way” or the popular “Mike’s Way,” which involves sliced onions, shredded lettuce, tomatoes, oregano, salt (spices) and "The Juice" - a mixture of red wine vinegar and olive oil which adds a “zip” to every bite. There is also a signature cherry pepper relish.

Then there is the bread - wheat and white. Customers rave about it, of course, it is baked fresh daily and their website proclaims that “authentic ‘Jersey’ bread is the foundation of a sub above.

“I remember going into that early Jersey Mike’s shop in Point Pleasant and after biting into my sandwich finding it just like the bread I grew up tasting in Jersey (the state), which as we would say in Jersey, ‘it’s the water.’”

Sandwiches come in 3 sizes - 5-inch Mini, 7-inch Regular, and 14-15-inch Giant. In addition to selling tasty sub sandwiches, Jersey Mike’s also serves wraps, chips, desserts, and beverages such as soda and more. #13 The Original Italian is the best-selling sub at Schanke’s stores with its provolone, ham, prosciuttini, cappacuolo salami, and pepperoni. Among the hot subs on the Jersey Mike’s menu is #17 Mike’s Famous Philly with grilled onions, peppers and white American cheese that gets ordered the most.

As for the most popular toppings, at least at his stores, Schanke noted it’s pickles. “It seems as if I’m always ordering them, and my five-year-old granddaughter, Thea, can’t get enough of how great they taste,” he said.

For more information on Jersey Mike’s Subs, visit jerseymikes.com where you can find the locations of Schanke’s four stores.

GOLOCALMAGAZINES.COM 27

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As spring approaches the sun shines its rays upon New England. The air loses its bite and takes the form of a pleasant breeze. Naturally, a craving for fresh fruit and vegetables arises. Where better to obtain the best produce than New England? This year, explore the area and CSA offerings. CSA produce is a local harvest and always has a homegrown taste.

CSA stands for Community Supported Agriculture. It is a partnership between farms and consumers. Members pay in advance for a “share” of the farm’s harvest for a set portion of the year. As a CSA member, you will pick up the selection of fresh produce, herbs, or even flowers on a designated day at the farm.

Does this sound like a good way to eat healthy this summer to you? Head over to the websites of each farm listed on the next page to fill out a CSA application. But don’t wait, shares fill up quickly!

GOLOCALMAGAZINES.COM 29

SAWMILL HERB FARM

140 MEADOW STREET . FLORENCE, MA (413) 268-4372 . SAWMILLHERBFARM.COM Sawmill Herb Farm provides local access to quality ingredients used in a number of recipes. Before each share, Sawmill Herb Farm sends an e-newsletter with information about the herbs in the upcoming share. Herbs are grown using sustainable and certified organic practices.

A local full share costs $205-240 and includes 10 shares, biweekly pickups from June 4-Sept. 25, one free class in Sawmill Herb Farm’s workshop series, and an invitation for participation in the private CSA Facebook group. A local half-share costs $115-140 and includes 5 shares, monthly pickups from June 18-Sept.11 and an invitation for participation in the private CSA Facebook group. Examples of herbs that can be found in each share include yellow dock root, motherwort, elder flowers, blue vervain, lemongrass and dandelion root.

businesses to provide unique add-ons. Pork from Mosher Farms of Broad Brook and fruit from Draghi Farms of South Windsor are additional add-ons. If joining the CSA sounds interesting, Bordua Farms will host a Night on the Farm event for current and potential members to learn more about the CSA in September.

Kosinski Farms and Farmstand 336 / 420 Russellville Road, Westfield, MA (413) 572-4344 . kosinskifarms.net

When you become a member of the Kosinski Farms CSA family we commit to raising your food with sustainable and environmentally responsible practices. We guarantee that your food will be grown and harvested locally.

Our season starts with the first pick of strawberries, usually the second week of June and continues through the middle of October. These dates are contingent on the weather and may need to be adjusted. Late Spring through Fall, Large Share $750, Small Share $425. Bakery and Wine Shares are available for additional cost of $200 and $250 respectively.

granny’s place DOWN TO EARTH FARM CSA

5 MICHELEC ROAD . STAFFORD, ct (860) 851-9617 . GETDOWNTOEARTH.ORG Down to Earth Farm’s CSA offers a unique experience.

It provides members with the opportunity to work on the farm where their fresh produce will be grown! Large Working Share $500 / Small Working Share $250. Work sessions are two hours every other week and involves tasks such as soil preparation, planting, watering, weeding and harvesting. There is always staff on site to provide support and work times are flexible. For those not interested in working on the farm, Down to Earth Farm’s CSA also offers non-working shares. Minimum deposit of $150 when submitting membership Application.

bordua farms

1536 main street . south windsor, ct (860) 335-2705 . borduafarms.com Bordua Farms provides a bountiful CSA that allows members to receive an assortment of produce once a week for 18 weeks. Each share is expected to feed a family of 2-4 people. Examples of produce in each share are beets, cabbage, herbs, melons and peppers. In October, 2 ornamental pumpkins are also included. The farm also has a floral add-on that provides CSA members with 6 bouquets. Bordua Farms teams up with other local

844 main street . agawam, ma (413) 786-9366 . grannysplacefarm.com Granny’s Place provides farm shares for 17 weeks, from June 17 to October 15. Three share sizes are available: Individual/Senior Share for $265, Small Share for $425 and Large Share for $665. For $55, members can add a dozen farm fresh eggs. Granny’s Place offers a wide range of fresh vegetables including asparagus, potatoes, apples and squash.

syme family farm

72 windsorville road . broad brook, ct (860) 623-5925 . symefamilyfarm.com The Syme Family Farm CSA is a little different from the usual fruit and vegetable share. The farm in Broad Brook offers a Cut Flower Club CSA, where members sign up and pre-pay for 4 or 8 week worth of locally grown flower bouquets, on two pickup days. Flowers are picked up weekly between July and August. Seasonal fruits and eggs are also available.

fied Organic vegetable farms in North Central Connecticut, which is something you can feel good about!

Mountain View Farm CSA

393 east street . easthampton, ma (413) 329-0211 . mountainviewfarmcsa.com Mountain View Farm offers three different share packages. The Singles/Couples share costs $25-$430, the Regular share $660 and the Farm Share Plus $795.

All share packages include U-Pick access. U-Pick gives members access to fields where you will find a harvest of items such as flowers, cherry tomatoes, cilantro, peas and beans.

Easy Pickin’s Orchard

46 Bailey Road . Enfield, ct (860) 763-3276 . EASYPICKINSORCHARD.SQUARE.SITE

Easy Pickin’s Orchard has been offering CSA shares for a decade from their pick-your-own farm. Each box picked up from the CSA will feature whichever fruits and vegetables are in their prime during the season, including strawberries, blueberries, onions and tomatoes. Easy Pickin’s utilizes an integrated pest management system to ensure high-quality growing practices.

YELLOW STONEHOUSE FARM

354 Root Road . WESTFIELD, MA (413) 562-2164 . YELLOWSTONEHOUSEFARMCSA.COM Westfield’s first USDA Certified Organic CSA program, Yellow Stonehouse Farm is a 79-acre property located in both Westfield and Southampton, Mass. Cultivating over 17 acres of certified organic vegetable and flowers for their CSA shareholders for their growing season, early June through late October. Weekly Full Farm share is $695, while every other week is $495.

For pricing, CSA details and specific pickup locations (many producers offer various sites) for the 2022 season, please contact farm directly. This is not a comprehensive list, if you would like to be included in future publications, please contact: mjohnson@repub.com Go Green: Remember to bring a reusable bag, basket or bin with you to pick up your CSA harvest. The less plastic, the better!

oxen hill farm

1434 Hill Street . Suffield, CT (860) 214-5104 . oxenhillfarm.com Oxen Hill Farm is offering their 13th USDA Organic Summer CSA program in 2021. The farm offers a variety of shares (Ox, Calf, and Mini) curated to meet the needs of each individual. Oxen Hill Farm is one of few USDA Certi-

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go eat

! RECIPE SUBMITTED BY NATHAN BLAIS

Greek Chicken Flatbread Garlic Hummus Vinaigrette

1 1/4 Cup Greek yogurt 1 1/4 Cup Self-rising flour 4oz Boneless Chicken breast 1/2 Cup Feta 1/2 Cup Mozzarella 1/4 Cup Kalamata olives 2 Tbsp Olive oil 1 Garlic clove 1 Tsp Lemon zest Za’atar Pickled shallots, garnish Parsley, garnish For the vinaigrette: 1/4 Garlic hummus 2 oz Lemon juice 1/4 cup olive oil Salt and Pepper, to taste 32 GO LOCAL MARCH 2022

Start by mixing flour and Greek yogurt together with a little bit of salt and olive oil. Flatten onto a greased baking sheet. Mix olive oil, lemon and garlic together with a little bit of za’atar and brush onto dough. Coat chicken breast in a little bit of olive oil and za’atar and pan sear over medium heat, finish in a 375F oven for about 10 minutes flipping halfway through. Add cheese, olives, and chicken to your flatbread and bake at 425F for 15-17 minutes. While your flatbread is baking, mix together lemon juice, hummus and olive oil and whisk until fully combined - add salt and pepper to taste.

Finish with pickled shallots, parsley and vinaigrette. Enjoy!

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!

! KEITH O’CONNOR  NATE BLAIS

Connecticut Valley

Mineral Club K ids are fascinated and love collecting rocks, but not every child develops a true love for minerals and becomes a serious collector.

For Fred Wilda of Hadley, his interest in minerals began much later in life when he was in his 40s.

“I was planning a trip to visit my brother in North Carolina and he wanted me to bring a tent along, so we could go camping in the Smoky Mountains. We spent a week there going from mine to mine collecting rubies, emeralds, sapphires, quartz and other specimens,” Wilda said.

Wilda, who very much enjoyed

the experience, didn’t have the time to pursue the hobby with children at home and a busy advertising and art business to attend to. It wasn’t until about 20 years later in 1995 when he met his longtime partner, Helen Rodak, that the couple planned a trip to South Carolina to visit relatives.

“We took a day and a half detour to North Carolina where I did some digging for minerals and the experience re-energized my interest in the hobby, and Helen became hooked as well. The next year we took a more detailed trip to North Carolina and visited more mines collecting much better-quality specimens than before.

GOLOCALMAGAZINES.COM 33

And that is what really got us started,” Wilda said about a hobby that grew into an obsession with minerals.

After visiting more mines and collecting a wealth of minerals, their hobby turned into a small business called Natures Finest Creations and they began going to mineral shows around New England selling some of their “precious stones.”

Along the way Wilda and Rodak met Dr. Warren I. Johansson, a geology professor at Greenfield Community College and fellow mineral collector, who was instrumental in developing the college’s science department.

“We became great friends with him and he became a “mentor” for us, and he encouraged us to join the Connecticut Valley Mineral Club where we would learn even more about collecting and the science of minerals,” Wilda said.

It was while on their 1996 expedition that Rodak found “a very good star ruby” and decided to have it cut and made into a pendant and earrings. That piqued Wilda’s interest in the lapidary arts and cutting their own stones. While on a vacation to Cape Cod in 1998, the couple visited a lapidary shop only to learn it was for sale.

“The price was so good that I couldn’t refuse and purchased the equipment and some cutting rough minerals and soon began cutting my own stones back home in Hadley and making cabochon jewelry, mainly earrings and pendants, for sale,” Wilda said.

Cabochon refers to a gemstone that has been shaped and polished, not faceted, and that typically has a flat side and one domed side.

34 GO LOCAL MARCH 2022

Wilda’s “art” work of a different kind can be seen in a special exhibit called Cut ‘N’ Rough now through June 2022 on display in Earth Hall on the second floor of the Springfield Science Museum. The exhibit is a collection of stones cut by Wilda that are displayed side-byside with the same stone in its original rough state, including some that are just polished to reveal their inner beauty.

Wida’s life suddenly came to a crossroad around 1998 when he was plagued by cluster headaches - what he called “migraines on steroids” - and also received a life-threatening diagnosis of prostate cancer. He had to put his commercial art business on hold because of the effects paints and thinners were having on his condition.

“A friend who owned the Palermo Mines in North Groton, New Hampshire, suggested that I put my talents as an artist to work, painting minerals in watercolors. I thought the idea was crazy and that nobody would buy them.

Helen kept after me to try some because I had nothing to lose. Much to my surprise, the paintings took off like crazy and became a life changer for me,” Wilda said.

It was Martin Zinn - whose production company organized gem, mineral and fossil shows across the country - who saw Wilda’s works of mineral art and recognized their value for collectors.

“His 2000 East Coast Gem, Mineral and Fossil Show was sold out to dealers with a waiting list of over 50 people, but Martin told the show’s manager to find me a spot. I ended up against a wall between the men’s and lady’s rooms, but it started off a chain of events that saw my work ending up in museums around the country and my prints being sold all over the world. Martin later hired me to do mineral paintings which were used to promote his shows,” Wilda said.

His original watercolors and limited-edition prints are in private collections throughout the United States and abroad. The Gem Institute of America (GIA) in Carlsbad, California, has a permanent display of his originals and limitededition prints. Wilda’s paintings have also been featured in a variety of national publications, and over 130 of his watercolor renderings were featured in a published hardbound book titled “The Pegmatite Mines of Palermo.” His artwork has also appeared at the Tucson Gem & Mineral Show, the largest, oldest and most prestigious gem and mineral show in the world, which has enjoyed international stature since GOLOCALMAGAZINES.COM 35

the 1970s. In 2004, he was honored as “Featured Artist” at the Mineral and Fossil Show in Munich, Germany. And, in 2012, Wilda was the featured exhibitor at the East Coast Gem, Mineral and Fossil Show in West Springfield filling 52 cases with his artwork and many specimens.

When an original work is finished, a limited-edition print series is produced, making the image available to more people. A series is usually small, consisting of 30 to 100 prints. Many Fred Wilda originals are commissions by collectors who own unique, unusual, or self-collected specimens that they want to immortalize.

Today Wilda and Rodak remain active members of the Connecticut Valley Mineral Club founded in Springfield in 1940. The club is dedicated to the study, appreciation and preservation of rocks, minerals, fossils and all other aspects of earth science with a special focus on schools with lectures and hands on presentations to students.

“With the many changes in our educational system over the years, science seems not as important as it once was with children missing out on learning the basic earth sciences,” Wilda said 36 GO LOCAL MARCH 2022

about visiting various school and sharing his knowledge of the mineral world.

He noted kids need to know what makes our Earth so unique.

“I tell them it is the great variety of elements on this planet that create our minerals. They are what make the Earth so unique and the reason we are having trouble finding another Earth in our galaxy. Minerals are made up of different elements such as gold, copper, hydrogen, oxygen and others. If it weren’t for the elements we would not be here. All plant, animal and human life depends on minerals for existence. If not for them, we would be just another big stone floating in space,” Wilda said.

The avid collector noted when making a presentation to school children, what excites them most is learning about minerals found in Massachusetts.

“I had an idea and working with the Connecticut Valley Mineral Club we created a display case that we call Significant Minerals of Massachusetts,” Wilda said.

The case is filled with seven specimens, each on its own stand with a label.

Most are official state symbols, such as a dinosaur footprint, the state fossil;

the state mineral, babingtonite; and the state gemstone, rhodonite. Galena, margarite and clay concretions are other significant minerals included. The club has given away about 40 of these cases to local schools and other educational establishments in the Pioneer Valley.

A special oversized case also resides in the State House in Boston. It was chosen to be permanently installed by the Collection’s Curator in 2018 because of its educational attributes. The Springfield Science Museum also has a wall-sized exhibit of “Significant Minerals of Massachusetts” on permanent display, funded by the Connecticut Valley Mineral Club.

The Connecticut Valley Mineral Club celebrated its 80th Anniversary in 2020.

Current members meet during the first Wednesday of each month beginning at 7 p.m. in the Springfield Science Museum. Meetings include mineral talks and presentations as well as holding numerous collecting field trips during the season. The club also sponsors the annual Western Mass. Mineral, Jewelry and Fossil Show. Proceeds from the show fund all of the club’s education programs.

Wilda and Rodak can be seen at the Western Mass. Mineral, Jewelry and Fossil Show on March 26-27, where they will be showing and selling their mineral paintings and prints, as well as mineral specimens they have accumulated over the years.

The yearly event will be held at the Castle of Knights Meeting House on 1599 Memorial Drive in Chicopee. Show hours are Saturday from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

Admission for adults is $5, youngsters 12 and under with a paid adult admission are free and receive a free mineral specimen. Scouts in uniform are also free.

If you miss the couple at the Chicopee show, you can see them at their return to the East Coast Gem, Mineral and Fossil show on Aug. 12-14 on the grounds of the Eastern States Exposition in West Springfield.

For more information on the Connecticut Valley Mineral Club, visit cvmineralclub.org

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413-575-9266

CBuendo@Gmail.com www.ResultsBegin.com

BREWERY • PUB • RESTAURANT KITCHEN serving

“WE’RE JUST HOMEGROWN FOLKS WHO LOVE TO MAKE GREAT BEER”

brick oven pizza • wings sandwiches • burgers meat & cheese combo boards

Stop in for a flight before your flight!

BROADBROOKBREWING.COM

915 SOUTH STREET | SUFFIELD, CT

860.623.1000

WEDNESDAY & THURSDAY 3PM-8PM • FRIDAY 12PM - 9PM • SATURDAY 11:30AM - 9PM • SUNDAY 11:30AM - 7PM

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local einstein

TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE - NO GOOGLING!

WHICH OF THE FOLLOWING STATES DOES NOT BORDER THE GREAT LAKES?

WHO CREATED SHERLOCK HOLMES? [A] [B] [C] [D]

Oscar Wilde Arthur Conan Doyle Robert Louis Stevenson Charles Dickens

[A] Indiana [B] Iowa [C] Pennsylvania [D] Michigan

WHICH ALCOHOL WOULD YOU USE TO MAKE IRISH COFFEE?

HOW MANY PUPPIES WERE BORN TO PONGO & PERDITA IN 101 DALMATIANS?

[A] Whiskey [B] Brandy [C] Scotch [D] Guinness

[A] 15 [B] 35 [C] 99 [D] 101 WHAT IS THE NAME OF THE MUPPET MODELED AFTER BRUCE SPRINGSTEEN ON SESAME STREET?

ORNITHOPHOBIA IS THE FEAR OF WHAT?

[A] Bruce Jellybean [B] Bruce Tambourine [C] Bruce Sunscreen [D] Bruce Stringbean

[A] Insects [B] Rain [C] Birds [D] Snakes

WHO WAS THE FIRST AMERICAN IN SPACE?

WHAT FLOWER IS MARCH’S BIRTH FLOWER? [A] Tulip [B] Rose [C] Daffodil [D] Crocus

[A] Buzz Aldrin [B] John Glenn [C] Alan Shepard [D] Neil Armstrong

[A] Chickpeas [B] Edamame [C] Eggplants [D] Chanterelles

COMING IN OUR MAY ISSUE

# CORRECT

IQ

RANK

ANSWERS:

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

160 110 50 3

Prodigy Egghead Meh Simpleton

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

GARBANZO BEANS ARE BETTER KNOWN AS WHAT?

Weddings

Reach engaged couples and their planners who are ready to make important purchasing decisions for the big day.

TO ADVERTISE...

Call Jeanette @ 860.729.1606 or email jgrenier@thereminder.com 38 GO LOCAL MARCH 2022

The Final Countdown

7 Local Sugar Shacks

Maple syrup season is a short one - take a trip and check out some of these local sweet spots!

HYDEVILLE SUGAR SHACK 118 HYDEVILLE RD. STAFFORD SPRINGS HYDEVILLESUGARSHACK.COM 860-916-9645

Local, Pure 100% Maple Syrup homemade by the Hartenstein's. Even if we aren't boiling we have syrup to sell. Call for candy and cream orders. Syrup season is a short 6 - 8 weeks during February and March each year. We are open for visits every time we are boiling. Syrup is available in pints, quarts and gallons. We also make custom orders, and can ship anywhere in the US.

STEVE'S SUGAR SHACK

34 NORTH ROAD WESTHAMPTON, MA STEVESSUGARSHACK.COM 413-527-0294

Sugar season is here and Steve's Sugar Shack is open for breakfast on Saturdays and Sunday from 7am - 1pm beginning on February 26/27 and continue through April 9/10. Breakfast items featuring maple products made on site by Stephen Holt.

NORTH HADLEY SUGAR SHACK

181 RIVER DR. HADLEY, MA 01035 NORTHHADLEYSUGARSHACK.COM 413-585-8820 Come visit our Family Farm & Sugarhouse during Sugarin' Season to watch us boil sap and make delicious Maple Syrups.

Supplies Available too! Stop by our Farm Market all year-round and enjoy a fresh cider donut, a warm breakfast sandwich, some fresh brewed coffee... or enjoy madeto-order deli sandwich, some homemade soup or a cold salad.

FERRINDINO MAPLE

284 GLENDALE RD. HAMPDEN, MA FERRINDINO.COM • 413-519-9945

Our family believes the best way to show loyalty and pride for a product is to make it personal. The Ferrindino Maple name reflects our dedication to the company and our product, ensuring that what we give to you is what we hold close to our hearts.

We start at the tree and use our state of the art production facility to ensure perfect production so your family enjoys 100% pure maple, containing no additives or preservatives.

SWEET WIND FARM

RIVER'S EDGE SUGAR HOUSE

HARDWICK SUGAR SHACK

The Case family has been maple sugaring for over 50 years! Pure maple syrup, maple sugar and other maple products produced at our sugarhouse. Held on the second Saturday in March every year, come join us for maple syrup making demonstrations and more family fun! Check the Facebook page for updates.

Open by chance or appointment. We began our Maple Syrup business in 1993 with 20 taps and buckets as an experiment – just to see if we could do it. In 1997 we built our sugarhouse.

We tripled the size of our sugarhouse in 1999 and have 2300 taps and then some. We added a full kitchen and storefront. In 2000, we began beekeeping and produce our own Connecticut local honey. We proudly offer our Connecticut maple products and local honey year-round.

We produce maple syrup from the trees right here in central Massachusetts. The farm is open every Sunday in March from 11-4 pm. Come see how syrup is made. Find us on Facebook for more details!

339 SOUTH RD • EAST HARTLAND, CT SWEETWINDFARM.NET • 860-653-2038

326 MANSFIELD ROAD (ROUTE 89), ASHFORD, CT 860-429-1510 • RIVERSEDGESUGARHOUSE.COM

572 JACKSON RD, HARDWICK, MA 413-477-0932 •HARDWICKSUGARSHACK.COM

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