Go Local | September 2017

September 2017 Volume 3 . Issue 10 golocalmagazines.com

modern stitchery Mangia Bene kids in the kitchen

no reservations a cross-country trek

2 GO LOCAL SEPTEMBER 2017

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new this month

6

A NOTE

11

mangia bene

8

GO ON, YOUR SAY

15

IN THE GARAGE

From the Editor 15 Minutes of Fame

Eat Well at Villa Napoletana

Bob Bujak

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SEPTEMBER 2017 . VOLUME 3 . ISSUE 10

17

MODERN STITCHERY

21

GO EAT

23

no reservations

28

LOCAL PICKS

31

kids in the kitchen

35

kindness rocks

38

local tails

40

local snapshot

41

local einstein

42

local countdown

11

The Hive Creative Co-op Apple & Cream Cheese Tart A Cross-Country Trek with Al & Joyce Tea, Wine Totes, Cigar Box Guitars

31

Healthy Hands Cooking Enfield Rocks

Mary & Rusty

KINDNESS ROCKS Enfield Rocks

35 >>

17

Enchanting Aviator

Put Your Thinking Caps On 7 Places To Learn Something New

4 GO LOCAL SEPTEMBER 2017

local tails Mary & Rusty

<< 38

Where caring is the only thing that surrounds you.

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GOLOCALMAGAZINES.COM 5

Summer’s looming end is swooping in quickly and the back-to-school season is a melancholy cue of another fading season. Often met with a begrudged transition, the return of another academic year reflects a new beginning and anticipation of a fresh adventure. It’s been nearly thirty years since I first waited for that big yellow bus coming down the road - clutching a metal Kermit the Frog lunchbox - but the annual milestone still prompts a compulsion to refocus and celebrate the start of a new chapter.

As I dug through an old shoebox looking for that gem of a photo down there to your right, my accidental mullet served as staunch symbolism for just how quickly time passes. I considered those early saddle shoe-wearing years, an era peppered with naps, snack breaks, storytime and recess. Each day was filled with new experiences that remain deeply etched in my memory bank, like being so excited for my first packed lunch I ate half my egg and olive sandwich on the bus to school. Today, I couldn’t tell you what I ate last week. I recently read an article suggesting that our formative years are marked by firsts - kisses, homecoming, holidays - and once these milestones or our “firsts” are met, the years to follow are hollow (a depressing notion, sorry). True, perhaps, but don’t share this sobering sentiment with Al Skelton and Joyce Bessette, a Stafford Springs couple who spent the summer traveling more and worrying less. Without reservation - or reservations - the two just completed a cross-country trek on a Can-Am Spyder, their story is both a nod to the warm summer months and a metaphor for building abundant memories. In the spirit of learning, we visited The Hive Creative Co-op, a working textile studio in Somers that serves as workshop and retail space for the artist in residence, K.M. Hutton. In Wilbraham, we received an important food education from Healthy Cooking With Kids instructor, Katherine Zahirovic and discovered what’s been “rocking” in Enfield. Cooling temperatures mean warmer food and this month we went in the kitchen at Villa Napoletana where owner Joe Manzi served up an unforgettable food experience.

I hope the changing season flecked with fresh pencil shavings and black marble notebooks inspires you to step out of your comfort zone and try something new - or return to a forgotten favorite. Develop a talent, learn a new skill or explore a curiosity; the downshift to cooler weather is an invitation for contemplation. September is a transitional month where we exchange warm-weather wears for plaid flannels and long denim (yay!), let it mark a new beginning. I’m starting fresh - after I pick up the pieces from a bustling summer - and channeling that girl over there with the ultra-cool embroidered collared dress. I’ll rekindle those novice days like a fresh box of crayons - finding my style, embracing imperfections and happily coloring outside the lines.

6 GO LOCAL SEPTEMBER 2017

EDITOR

Amber Wakley

PUBLISHER Dan Buendo

MAGAZINE DESIGN Mandy Wieting

QUALITY CONTROL Carolyn Napolitan

PHOTOGRAPHY

Jacqueline Sidor . Amber Wakley

ADVERTISING

Amy Allen . Kim Barba . Paula Dimauro Scott Greene . Nancy Holloway . Jeanette Grenier Matt Mahaney . Lisa Nolan

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amber wakley is the editor of Go Local Magazine, who loved Reading Rainbow, playing dodgeball, and found joy in putting glue on her hands, letting it dry and then peeling it off.

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your say

BECAUSE EVERYONE DESERVES THEIR 15 MINUTES OF FAME

Generator Tech

TOM

KATE Landscaper

JIM Retired

KAITLYN College Freshman

HOLLI Writer

VALERIE College Freshman

What was your lunchbox as a kid?

Star Wars

Bugs Bunny

Roy Rogers

Nike Lunch Sock

The Muppets

SpongeBob

What would you like to learn this year?

Hydrofoil Surfing

Another Language

My Smartphone

Self-Reliance/ Independence

Telepathy/ Teleportation

Time Management

Favorite children’s book of all time?

Dr. Seuss & Curious George

Berenstein Bears

The Night Before Christmas

Harry Potter

The Chronicles of Narnia

Junie B. Jones

What’s your highest rated comfort food?

Burgers

Pizza

Pizza

My grandparents’ spaghetti & meatballs

Mom’s Mac ‘n’ Cheese

Mac ‘n’ Cheese

What would you sing on karaoke night?

“Shake It Off”

by Taylor Swift

“The Rubberband Man” by The Spinners

Something Country

“Single Ladies”

by Beyoncé

“Alone”

by Heart

“Teenage Dream”

by Katy Perry

If you could master any instrument, which would you choose?

Guitar

Violin

Guitar

Piano

Guitar, Banjo, or Upright Bass

Piano

Excited most for which fall TV premiere?

Will & Grace

Rick and Morty

Trial & Error

This Is Us

Stranger Things

This Is Us

Favorite gym activity?

Swimming

Speedball

Anything Outside

Sit Scooters

Parachute

Parachute

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10 GO LOCAL SEPTEMBER 2017

ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS!

! AMBER WAKLEY  J ACQUELINE M. SIDOR, JMS ART & PHOTO

A caramelizing bath of extra virgin olive, a sizzling cut-to-order vitello filet serves as a melodic accompaniment to the muted thud of a quick-tapping knife. In its rustic simplicity, ebullient marinara simmers quietly while the metallic rattling of long-handled kitchen tongs signals the assembly of a perfect plate; this is the rich symphony of a well-run restaurant. Owner and chef, Giuseppe “Joe” Manzi, is positioned at the stove and serves as the conductor of these delicious meals - or more appropriately - Maestro. This well-orchestrated kitchen concert is just the beginning of a robust, multisensory food experience at Villa Napoletana in East Longmeadow.

The hidden gem restaurant known for distinguished dishes and exquisite ambiance will soon celebrate a delicious twenty-year anniversary - an achievement realized by a constant culinary challenge. Joe, a brilliant chef with a big personality, says that’s what he’s enjoyed most since he opened in 1998, perpetually modernizing classic dishes indicative of his roots in Naples, Italy. His menu is ever changing, creating new dishes to meet the demand of changing food trends, competition, and local flavors. While his kitchen serves as a laboratory for culinary experimentation, fresh ingredients, attention to detail and superb service are just a few attributes that will never change.

GOLOCALMAGAZINES.COM 11

“Recipes are rooted with my grandmother, mother, and father - that’s the base of starting everything,” says Joe. “This is Neapolitan cooking - we’re a sauté kitchen - a practice that’s becoming extinct. It’s more work, but it’s the heart of our kitchen. Here, we go after home cooking, sauces, house made pasta, bread making, and fresh pizza dough; we make everything from scratch here. What we do here is different.”

Influenced by different cultures, Neapolitan cooking has ancient historical roots, using an abundance of fresh ingredients with a balance of vegetables, high-quality meat, sauce, pasta, herbs, fish, olive oil and cheese; each is a critical component. It’s this same selection of top-notch meats and prime ingredients that prevents Joe’s customers from enduring long drives to Hartford, New Haven or Northampton for a great dining experience. He provides an option to “stay local,” with varied selections with panache on his highly customizable menu.

At Villa Napoletana you can order conventionally, choosing from a selection of spectacular dishes that meet a variety of flavor and dietary preferences. Or, as Joe says, “you can put the menu away

and have the waiter sing to you.” Based on your palate that particular evening, servers offer a tailored tabletop tour describing innovative specials, seasonal offerings and surprising suggestions from start to finish. Here, it’s not just going out to dinner; it’s a fine-dining exploration of Southern Italy.

While the menu offers familiar favorites like Chicken Marsala and Chicken Francaise, further down are unexpected selections like Chicken con Cognac (pan sautéed breast of chicken with artichoke hearts, prosciutto, mushrooms, sundried tomatoes and finished in a cognac sauce) and Pollo Inpacottata (pan-sautéed breast of chicken with mushrooms, garlic, basil and stuffed with mozzarella and prosciutto then finished with a touch of lemon). Traditional dishes like Vitello alla Mamma Flora (veal medallions layered with sliced eggplant, fresh mozzarella and ricotta cheese in a roasted garlic tomato sauce), pay homage to Joe’s grandmother while Italian cold cuts (prosciutto, pancetta, soppressata) celebrate lineage and are homemade by family in Little Italy. Menu options are all inclusive, making dinner fun, rather than worrisome when looking at an

Recipes are rooted with my grandmother, mother, and father...

12 GO LOCAL SEPTEMBER 2017

ala carte menu. Whichever the selection, with these seasoned chefs, there’s little chance for disappointment.

Today Joe is relaxed in the kitchen, laughing and joking, all the while preparing and plating artful dishes; his work seems effortless. However, the evolution of his food and wine offerings is noticeably calculated. For instance, meat is kept whole and only cut when ordered. Chefs use every aspect, trickling the ingredient down to fulfill every menu item, like sauces and broth. Some fresh pickings even come from Joe’s garden, located behind Bond 124, his most recent restaurant addition in Somers. Back in East Longmeadow, a new handpicked wine list - that took seven months to prepare - is set to roll out in September. Scrupulous selections include crisp whites and supple reds from Italy, Napa, Argentina and beyond, all distinguished and intended to complement the finest food possible.

Inside, the atmosphere is warm and welcoming with separated nooks filled with art, warm candlelight and cozy finishes. All dishes are made to order, allowing time for a unique dining experience with free-flowing conversation and delicious food. Meals are punctuated with in-house espresso drinks and confection selections like (the most incredible) homemade tiramisu, crème brûlée and red velvet cake. Each a treat, each as meticulously prepared as the next.

Fresh flavors continue into fall with Lobster Fest - from September 5 to September 23 - that pays homage to the waning summer and celebrates New England’s favorite flavors. Succulent dishes like the Lobster Volcano, Lazy Man’s Lobster Casserole, and Lobster Mac & Cheese will accompany traditional lobster dinners and even a raw bar. On November 14, an annual Harvest Dinner is a night to thank customers, traditionally serving as an evening to “give back.” Decorated for autumn, the evening starts with valet parking, an open bar, and live music.

From there, the night turns to a food-wine pairing experience, evolving in tandem over six courses - a deal for just $100. Sunday Brunch, Wine and Dine Old-School style on Sunday evenings (featuring selections from the original 1998 menu), and evenings filled with live music round out their offerings, along with weekly specials.

Original, locally owned, friendly and a beloved fixture, Villa Napoletana is a feast for your five. The full-sensory approach to dining is an immersive culinary adventure, one that’s to be shared with good company and – of course - a perfectly paired wine.

VILLA NAPOLETANA • (413) 732-9300 • VILLANAPOLETANA.COM 664 NORTH MAIN STREET • EAST LONGMEADOW, MA

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BOB BUJAK

1929 PIERCE-ARROW

B

ob Bujak has had a love affair with cars for as long as he can remember.

At about six years old, he helped his father repair the family’s 1958 Ford and over the years he continued to tinker and take engines apart. Later, he remembers ogling a Model A Ford Coupe with an Oldsmobile engine on his paper route, which inspired his first car - a 1950 DeSoto - at the age of thirteen. His next endeavor was shared with a friend, working on a ‘54 Buick.

At fourteen he bought a 1950 Pontiac Silver Streak Straight 8 for $50, and when that same friend bought a Model A Ford coupe, his antique “phase” began. Looking for a project car of his own, he bought his 1929 Pierce-Arrow 5-passenger sedan. Built in Buffalo, NY, from 1901-1938, they were considered to be one of the finest cars built in America. Its look is distinctive with original ash wood spoke wheels, side-mounted tires and bracket-mounted headlights.

“I was fifteen at the time and I asked my mother to drive me around the countryside to look for an old car in a farmer’s field,” remembers Bob. “After much looking I spotted an old car covered up behind an antique dealer’s shop. It looked much bigger than a Model A, I lifted the cover and read the name on the hubcap “Pierce” with an arrow through the name. I had no idea what I was looking at, but at $450 it was what I was willing to spend.”

He started to inventory the vehicle - mostly of what was missing - finding only the block, crank and cam under the hood (everything else was in a box on the backseat). After a summer and fall of hunting down parts and cleaning them up, Bob rebuilt the engine and brought the Pierce back to life on his sister’s birthday, November

5, 1967. He says the brush-painted body was solid, although the interior was a bit tattered, which he concealed with blankets for many years. He continued projects, like a complete engine rebuild in 1971 and rewiring the vehicle with a brown extension cord wire (which served him well until it was fully restored in 1998).

“I had a lot of fun bombing around in the Pierce as a kid,” says Bob. “When my wife, Elaine, and I married in 1974 we also enjoyed taking the car for rides or to a meet. When the boys came along we would pile them into the car with strollers and coolers, being unrestored, I wasn’t extremely particular about the condition of the car. We would just take it out and have fun.”

After tackling some frustrating cooling system problems, Bob decided the Pierce deserved a full restoration and began taking it apart on January 1, 1998. The project was complete in June 1999, just in time for a national meet in New Hampshire. Bob and his family have enjoyed a lot of cars over the years - from a ‘63 Studebaker Avanti to Metropolitan micro cars - but the Pierce is a mainstay in his garage. It represents a lifetime of work, sweat-equity earned achievements, and more importantly, wonderful memories.

“We love the adventure of exploring the countryside and seeing what is over the next hill,” says Bob. “This great automobile has provided an immense amount of pleasure and a good (very good) part of my life has revolved around our Pierce-Arrow.”

GOLOCALMAGAZINES.COM 15

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

s cooler weather gestures an onslaught of vibrant patinas, Kate Hutton is briskly preparing for the changing season. Perched in the crook of a couch she parallels courses of yarn, interlocking and progressing by row to create garments characteristic of New England, but with a modern twist. Each stitch represents time-honored textile techniques, a craft resulting in classic, heirloom quality pieces that serve as an expression of her creativity.

Inside a flaxen-colored clapboard colonial building on Main Street in Somers, Kate designs, hand knits, weaves and sews every item in her shop, K.M. Hutton Modern Stitchery. While the space â&#x20AC;&#x201C; appropriately named The Hive Creative Co-op - serves as a working textile studio and retail space, its intention is to serve an ever-growing craft, art, and entrepreneurial community.

Kate is a maker spirit, reveling in traditional artistry with a strong focus on applying practical skills to crafting. She began knitting in college, a utilitarian purpose while battling sub-zero winter weather in GOLOCALMAGAZINES.COM 17

Minnesota, where she attended school. Law school followed her undergraduate study and with a rigorous schedule, she temporarily lost track of producing. After graduation, wedding preparations beckoned her creativity and to prepare, Kate and her husband completed a series of crafts, personally “touching” nearly every visual element of their nuptials.

She spent a year handembroidering table numbers – among other projects – and experienced postwedding “craft letdown,” when creativity left her evening routine. It was then that she returned to knitting and discovered the world of weaving.

“I started by making things I would want to wear, and then gave them to friends as gifts. When I ran out of friends I decided to start a business,” smiles Kate. “I enjoyed doing this so much I just had projects piling up.”

The derivative of being a Boston commuter, her product line is intended to complement everything from formal coat to “puffy” vest. A marriage of style and function, her knitted products include a variety of hats (with a detachable pom-pom, depending on preference), cowls and button scarves. Her woven collection includes bandana scarves, infinity scarves, bags and clutches.

“My concept has always been to bring things up a notch every time I introduce a new product,” Kate explains. “As I go through the year, my plan is to elevate materials, making each gift-worthy. I think my customers appreciate having a source for specially curated items that they can tell a story about.”

Kate makes all fabric on a loom; her woven collection is a statement of pure artistry. Each is truly one-of-a-kind and designed to be a long-term purchase, where style and function meet, like all good things in New England.

Positioned at a foot-treadle floor loom, she swiftly passes a wooden shuttle over-and-under lengthwise yarn, held in tension on wire heddles. Reminiscent of those our ancestors used, the mechanics of the self-propelled apparatus is fascinating, operating on a system of pulleys and cranks. The loom is a focal point within The Hive, space specifically designed for innovation. With walls dressed in textiles, each earth-tone yarn cone serves as inspirational eye-candy in contrast to the white, rough-sawn shiplap paneling. Free-form woven hangings give dramatic texture while a large conference-sized table invites making. It’s her fresh place to create, but also serves as a platform to serve a growing creative community.

“My original conception was to have this as my home base [for business], but thought to offer that same idea to friends and other makers,” says Kate. “I want to share in the experience, and I think it’s good to be able to reach out to your audience and have a conversation –that’s my favorite part in all of this.”

Her doors opened in February and since then The Hive has been a buzzing venue for trunk shows, workshops, private events and meetups. Kate’s intention is to build a functional gathering space for creative entrepreneurs and those seeking 18 GO LOCAL SEPTEMBER 2017

a “crafty break.” Since “making” is often completed in isolation she sees The Hive as a way to bring people together, exchange ideas, spark creativity and foster a community experience.

As an attorney by day, Kate has learned how to synchronize both her left and right brain. Analytical foresight has influenced smart business decisions for success while abstract, intuitive thought has stemmed creative projects, like introductory weaving workshops.

Kate’s goal is to offer continual “bite-sized” craft classes, hoping entry-level projects will foster continual creativity.

“Some people come in with a conception that they’re not that creative. Over the course of three hours people talk, hang out and work indecently – in the end, they walk away with something cool enough to hang in their own home,” says Kate. “It’s cathartic as a creative experience and people get a lot out of it; you’d be surprised what’s in you with the right tools and guidance. It’s fun tapping into creativity; adults especially are looking to connect to that [artistic] part of themselves.”

Similarly, The Hive will host a series of six “Trunk & Brunch” events from September to October, each featuring local makers within the fun, crafty setting. The pop-up style market features a different local artisan each weekend day (beginning September 10) with merchandise from Lizardi Jewelry, Carmen’s Hope, Thirty6signstudio, Wild Carrot Cordage, GIGI & LALA, and Payne and Comfort. Each event is free, offers refreshments and the opportunity for visitors to “meet the maker” while purchasing truly unique products.

“I think people have fallen back in love with handmade and are getting back into the maker mentality. Some of these old crafts are dying off – not being taught from generation to generation. It’s nice to see people curious and value what you’re doing,” smiles Kate. “Making is a way to connect back to your childhood, a fun way to exercise energy and thoughts. We all sit in a chaotic headspace a lot of the time and weirdly, this is a good outlet that’s focused, but refreshing. I know it does that for me.”

Visit The Hive Creative Co-Op at 598 Main Street in Somers, Connecticut.

To learn more about workshops, trunk shows, events and happenings, visit hivecreativecoop.com To see Kate’s time-honored textiles, visit kmhutton.com

GOLOCALMAGAZINES.COM 19

HARVEST NEW ENGLAND INTERVIEW WITH SHELLEY SALES

What distinguishes you from other businesses in your category?

Three factors distinguish us. HIGH QUALITY PRODUCTS: we provide the highest quality soils and mulches in the region. SUPER FRIENDLY TEAM: our customer service provides knowledgeable, friendly service to residents, landscapers, businesses, and municipalities. CERTIFIED ORGANIC COMPOST: Our organic compost is completely safe for use in food production and approved in Connecticut by the Baystate Organic Certifiers.

Something people might be surprised to learn about you or your business.

We provide excellent products for all types of landscapes. Our soil blends are perfect for raised beds, trees and shrubs, and general gardening. We custom blend mixes for bioretention projects, green roofs, wetlands, and erosion control. Our naturally colored mulches provide “pop” to any landscape. Lawns benefit from topdressing with our compost.

Why should people do business with you?

Supporting the soil – by applying compost, high quality soil blends, and mulches – is perhaps the best thing you can do, locally, to help save the planet. Healthy soil leads to a plethora of good benefits including cleaner water, cleaner air, healthier plants, and beautiful landscapes. Our team works hard to turn organic materials that would otherwise go into the landfill into high quality soils and mulches. By purchasing our products, you help save the planet.

contact

235 Sadds Mill Road • Ellington, CT • (860) 674-8855 • harvestpower.com/ne

20 GO LOCAL SEPTEMBER 2017

go eat

! RECIPE SUBMITTED BY NEW ENGLAND APPLE ASSOCIATION

Apple and Cream Cheese Tart

1/2 cup butter 1/4 cup sugar 1 teaspoon lemon juice 1 cup flour 2 8-oz packages cream cheese 1/2 cup brown sugar 1 large egg 2 large McIntosh or other New England apples 1/2 cup sugar 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Preheat oven to 425°F. Cream butter, 1/4 cup sugar and lemon juice together in large mixing bowl. Stir in flour until well blended. Press dough into bottom and 1-1/2 inches up sides of a 9-inch springform pan. Refrigerate.

Place cream cheese and brown sugar in a mixing bowl and beat until fluffy. Add egg and beat until smooth.

Peel, core, and slice apples into 1/4-inch pieces. In a large bowl, combine remaining 1/2 cup sugar with cinnamon. Add apple slices and toss until coated.

Pour cream cheese filling into prepared crust and cover with sugared apple slices. Bake for 15 minutes at 425°. Reduce heat to 350° and continue baking for 40 to 45 minutes.

Remove from oven and cool on wire rack. Use a knife to loosen cake before releasing the spring and lifting the sides from bottom of pan.

The nonprofit NEW ENGLAND APPLE ASSOCIATION was founded in 1935 by a group of wholesale growers from the New England states and New York.

Their mission is to promote the New England apple industry through educational and promotional events and projects. Visit their website to learn more about the wide variety of New England apples, the nutritional value of apples, how apples are grown and prepared, and lots of great recipes. NEWENGLANDAPPLES.ORG GOLOCALMAGAZINES.COM 21

e a Menu iz m to s u C s U t Le vent E g in r te a C t x e for Your N Dr. Scott D. Morey | Dr. Heidi Morey Dr. Kathryn Garner | Dr. Weston Brown 9F Fieldstone Commons, Tolland, CT

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Beer · Wine Spirits · Cocktails

Full Bar Menu Gio’s Bar Snacks available 8pm-12am including Potato Skins, Mini Pretzel Bites, Flatbreads.

Southwest Egg Rolls & Coconut Shrimp!

NFL Games are Back!

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Open 7 Days | www.giospizzeria.com 22 GO LOCAL SEPTEMBER 2017

We Have Everything You Need for Fall Cleanup!

You can see Scot and his children, including Amanda, any day at the shop

Stanton Equipment

105 S. Main St., (Rt. 5) East Windsor, CT 860.623.8296 • 800.842.8968 www.stantoneq.com

T

! AMBER WAKLEY  J AQUELINE M. SIDOR, JMS ART & PHOTO

here’s wanderlust in all of us, the urge to pursue scenic highways, off-beaten paths, and otherworldly landscapes. Hitting the road for a new destination rejuvenates the spirit, a grounding experience that doesn’t necessarily wane with age. It’s a big, beautiful country, that’s why Al Skelton and Joyce Bessette - two nomadic souls from Stafford Springs – are racking up the miles.

Many New Englanders spend these warmer days within six small states, enjoying clam shacks, farmers markets, and oceanfront views– but not these two. For most of the summer, Al and Joyce have been on the road, traversing the United States landscape between its two shores. Over the course of a month, they racked up 7,000 miles, exploring vast and varied terrain, small towns and big cities.

While the two have been riding for decades – taking small hiatuses in-between – this was their first long-distance trip together. The two met through the Spinning Wheels – a Stafford motorcycle club – back in the 1980s. They reconnected just two years ago, following the passing of their

respective and beloved spouses. Since then, the two have been collecting new experiences as travel companions, predominantly from the open-air comfort of a Can-Am Spyder. The 3-wheel touring motorcycle is noted to be unrivaled for long-distance traveling, Al says, “it’s the perfect form of transportation and is a good comfortable ride.”

When planning a long-distance trip many folks spend weeks – even months – scrutinizing travel itineraries, plotting routes and determining landmarks – not Al and Joyce. At first, they were just “going for a visit,” to Al’s brother in Oklahoma, but they just kept accumulating potential destinations. They made the decision to go cross-country in late May and shortly after Al got to work building a customized tow-behind trailer. Modified from an old pop up trailer he received from a friend, Al re-welded the frame to support the beautiful covered box that would eventually protect their gear. Once the project was complete, they hit the road just a week or so later.

“We didn’t really plan that much in advance,” laughs Joyce.

“We know where we want to go so I just take the atlas and make a rough route; we go day to day,” adds Al. “If you make definite plans or reservations and something happens, the whole trip doesn’t work out. Without reservations, it doesn’t make any difference how many miles you put on.”

24 GO LOCAL SEPTEMBER 2017

“One day at a time,” adds Joyce.

The two covered an average of 300 miles a day, traveling through Pennsylvania, Ohio and onward to Branson, Missouri, where they enjoyed Dolly Parton’s Dixie Stampede, a dinner show featuring trick riders in a 35,000 square foot arena. After, they gazed at Big Brutus – the world’s largest electric shovel still in existence - met their original Oklahoma destination and then traveled westward through Kansas and Colorado. On the other side of the Jordan River, the landscape gave way to steep canyons, hairpin turns, huge natural monuments and amazing red rock.

They made stops at prominent National Parks including Moab, Arches, Monument Valley, Four Corners, Mesa Verde and Canyonlands. From there they turned for home by way of Rocky Mountain National Park, Independent Pass.

“We kept track of everything, we knew where we stayed, the names of the hotels – what it cost – everything,” says Joyce smiling as she reminisced through the pages of a pocket-sized notebook. “I didn’t really have any favorite spots, I just loved the whole thing – the whole trip. Going through the valleys and on top of the mountains, it’s just beautiful.”

While the adventure rendered never-been-seen views and incredible experiences, each mile marker was representative of living in the moment. Unconcerned with agendas or clocking a certain amount of miles Al and Joyce were free and present. An unrestrained agenda creates a certain serendipity that comes only from taking a who-knows-what’s-coming attitude. Spontaneous and fun, their only true responsibility was maintaining the bike and periodically checking in with “the kids.” They made just one reservation in Jackson Hole, Wyoming, a popular destination within Yellowstone National Park.

“I have an atlas and mark all the trips that we’ve been on, every night I map out where we’ve been and where we’re going tomorrow,” says Al. “I would plan the next day the night before, making a general route, but if we met someone who knew of something interesting we would change our plans.”

Joyce says A LOT of people wanted to chat, surely intrigued by New Englanders in bright-yellow matching jackets. There was a lot of inquiries on the trailer, conversations on where they had been and where they intended to go. They ran into people multiple times along the way, building camaraderie across the country.

“A majority of people out there are really good, we met some really nice people,” says Al. “There are good people out there, that’s for sure,” says Joyce.

Al has been to the West Coast about ten times, by ground and plane. This, however, was a first for Joyce. But prompt either of them about their recent adventure and their faces light up just the same.

When asked if they got on each other’s nerves at any time, Al responded “all the time,” with a joking chuckle. “We hit the

road, we wouldn’t even talk much – she’s great to travel with – because I threatened to leave her by the side of the road.”

“I was taking in the scenery and he was busy trying to stay on the road,” says Joyce roaring with laughter. “I just wanted to look at everything – the landscape [out west] is just so different, it’s absolutely beautiful.”

With simple souvenirs of rocks, petrified sticks and red soil contained in water bottles – along with feelings of freedom that only comes from the road – Al and Joyce returned home on August 7. However, they joke they’ll be in town just long

enough to mow the lawn and are already making plans for their autumn adventures. The two regularly travel to Jaffrey, New Hampshire for ice cream and enjoy touring the Quabbin Reservoir in Massachusetts. They look forward to meeting up with members of The Retreads – a motorcycle enthusiast group for “mature” riders over 40 – at a September rally in Portland, Maine, traveling to the Eisenhower Locks in New York State and then ride the Lake Champlain ferry and head home through Vermont.

Make no mistake, there’s not a whole lot of grass growing under the feet of Al & Joyce. Next year they plan on going to Sturgis, North Dakota before heading on to Glacier National Park.

As applicable to travel as to life, Al finished, “I like just being out there riding. If you try and crowd too much in, it’s not as enjoyable – just be laid back and do what you can.”

26 GO LOCAL SEPTEMBER 2017

Residential & Commercial Washing

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Some restrictions apply. Cannot be combined with any other offers/coupons. Offer valid through 9/30/17.

ABOUT US Mr. T's Powerwash is a family owned and operated business with over twenty years of experience in the industry. We're based in Stafford, CT, but our service area includes most of North-Central Connecticut.

We share a strong commitment to family values, and it comes across in the way that we do business. We always make an effort to treat customers as a part of our extended family - with courtesy and respect. We pride ourselves on our ability to provide high quality services at fair and competitive prices.

One thing that helps us stand out from our competition is that we enjoy good conversation. We strive to answer every phone call personally, although that keeps getting harder as our business continues to grow. But rest assured, if you have to leave a message, WE WILL RETURN YOUR CALL at our earliest opportunity. We are happy to answer any questions you may have, and we will do our best to explain things in a manner that makes you feel comfortable to have us service your home, business, or property.

GOLOCALMAGAZINES.COM 27

go local picks

COOL STUFF JUST OUTSIDE YOUR DOOR

LOCALLY CRAFTED TEAS TEA GUYS • TEAGUYS.COM • 800-282-2859 • 413-303-0137 FACEBOOK.COM/TEAGUYS • INFO@TEAGUYS.COM

Emily and Oliver Rich, owners of Tea Guys, know a thing or two about tea. Established in 2002, Tea Guys offers both hot and iced tea bags, matcha powder, bulk tea, tea concentrates, and an extremely exciting, first-of-its-kind, sparkling tea - the latest creation from their decades-long pursuit. Each batch is hand blended in small lots with quality ingredients sourced from around the world - except the maple syrup, of course, which comes from Western Massachusetts. They use between 400 and 500 ingredients to make more than 120 blends - some teas are roasted, others are steamed, aged, fermented or smoked for desired results. Teas can be purchased at Big Y, on their website, or at their blending facility and store at 110 Christian Lane, Whately, MA.

CUSTOM WINE TOTES KRISTE JEANNE’S • WILBRAHAM, MA • (413) 427-5095 FACEBOOK.COM/KRISTEJEANNES

Kriste Raymond began making wine totes as hostess gifts, “It’s always nice to bring some wine and share a fun bag. I leave one with a hostess, and she can bring it to her next party.” Kriste says. She recently began experimenting with hand painting and stamping, “I came up with the town theme after having a booth at the Wilbraham Peach Blossom Festival and realized what a wonderful town we live in - people are proud to live here and want things with their town or zip code.” She also makes cosmetic and crossbody bags, as well as dopp kits for men and women and makes everything herself.

To purchase, contact her directly or visit Oh So Pretties in Wilbraham or the Mattoon Street Arts Festival in Springfield, Sept. 9/10.

28 GO LOCAL SEPTEMBER 2017

CIGAR BOX GUITARS TOBACCO VALLEY MUSIC • ELLINGTON, CT • (860) 268-9912 FACEBOOK.COM/TOBACCOVALLEYMUSIC

Josh Simmons has been tinkering with guitars and instruments since he was 13 years old. He always loved cigar box guitars and built his first one about 4 years ago. A friend saw it and told him that he should make one for an upcoming festival, so he did. He uses reclaimed and repurposed materials and is willing to take requests to build other instruments. “If you have something in mind, let me know,” Josh says, “we can make it happen. We are only limited by our imagination.” Josh’s business, Tobacco Valley Music, will have a booth at the Getting Grateful festival in Hyde Park, Stafford on Sept. 23 and he has a guitar on display at The Stafford Cidery for purchase.

5-Year Anniversary Celebration September 14, 5-7pm

3-DAY SALE Up to 70% off selected items Sept. 14-16

Leaving September 29 for our diamond buying trip to Antwerp. Come in now to pre-order.

807 Williams St., Longmeadow, MA 413.567.7977 | www.michaelszwedjewelers.com Hours: Mon- Wed & Fri 10-5:30 • Thurs 10-7 • Sat 10-4

GOLOCALMAGAZINES.COM 29

Cupola Hollow Farm

We Grow Our Own!

✽ Trees ✽ Shrubs ✽ Annuals ✽ Perennials ✽ Vegetable Plants & Herbs ✽ Earth-Friendly Products ✽ Unique Garden Statuary, Bird Baths & Fountains ✽ Full Service Florist & Gift Shop ✽ Landscape Design & Installation Seniors get 10% Off Every Wed.

We are proud to offer a full line of jams, jelly, pickles, relish, salsa, goat’s milk soap, dried dip mixes, honey, home baked pies, breads, muffins and creamy homemade fudge to tingle the taste buds.

1359 Wilbraham Rd. Springfield (next to WNE) (413) 783-5883 16acresgardencenter.com

1510 North Stone St., West Suffield, CT • 860.668.0859 • www.cupolahollowfarm.com

Claws and Paws Pet Salon Where your pet is Family

546 Enfield Street • Enfield, CT clawsandpawspetsalon@yahoo.com

Fall Specials!

We specialize in stump grinding and in all types of tree work with special equipment - cranes to 110 ft.

Fully insured. Free estimates. Free advice.

Call Robb Wallace

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

860.265.2390 Call for appointment

413-782-8733 wallacetree@gmail.com

LOCAL HARVEST Farmer’s Market

We are back at Longmeadow Shops Every Thursday 2-7pm Rain or Shine

Offering LOCALLY GROWN Products

Great Selection!

LONGMEADOW SHOPS PARKING LOT 666 Bliss Road • Next to athletic fields 30 GO LOCAL SEPTEMBER 2017

YANKEE Upholstery (860) 684-6233 1 River Road Stafford Springs, CT Hours: Mon.-Fri. 9am-5pm Sat. 9am-1pm Facebook: Yankee Upholstery

! AMBER WAKLEY  J AQUELINE M. SIDOR, JMS ART & PHOTO

k

atherine Zahirovic skirts the edge of a large table, carefully arranging a collection of colorful placemats and nylon knife sets. Reaching into a large red bag, she assembles a collection of ingredients, including everything from almonds to a pineapple. Today she’s setting the table for a “Healthy Snacking, Yummy Munchies” class, just one of her hands-on workshops that’s cultivating a community of culinary kids.

With a passion for food science, the Wilbraham resident brings a lot to the table with a unique perspective on nutrition, the biochemical nature of foods and principles of food processing. Katherine graduated from UMass Amherst, gaining a broad knowledge and intimate understanding of the food industry. In the lab she developed food products, enforced food regulations and conducted quality assurance procedures – among others. From a lab perspective, she understands how

ingredients chemically interact with one another, but also most importantly - how they break down in the body.

With 80-hour workweeks and her first baby on the way, Katherine was looking to branch away from the food industry and all its demands. She remembers having a conversation with a friend, one who presumed corn syrup was good for you, since it was derived from corn. It was at that moment she realized the community was hungry for information and like that, Healthy Cooking for Kids was born.

With some research she found Healthy Hands Cooking, a nationwide movement to fight childhood obesity by certifying and empowering instructors to teach children and families about nutrition and healthy cooking. After her first class – a workshop featuring lunch options from around the world – she was hooked.

“The kids loved it because they felt empowered,” says Katherine. “Not only did they get to use [kid safe] knives, but they were able to put their own food together and realize their creation. That’s when I knew I was in the right place.”

Katherine believes cultivating culinary kids is a great way to help build healthy habits early on. When children know how to make healthy food choices and can prepare well-balanced meals on their own, they’ll be far less reliant on unhealthy, quick and easy options like fast food and pre-packaged foods.

Designed for children 2-13 and up, each cooking class starts with a 30-minute educational activity or game followed by cooking 2-4 healthy recipes. In her classes young participants learn knife safety – how to chop, cut and dice –substitute un-

healthy foods with nutrient dense options, read ingredient labels and interpret each component. Through hands-on activities she also shares how to prevent cross-contamination, create balanced plates, and tips on general food safety.

“Every single one of my classes start with a 30-minute food nutrition lesson,” says Katherine. “Since it’s not being taught in school it’s my way of getting in front of the kids and giving them information that they really, really need.”

Today, the group is immersed in a collaborative baking project, each contributing to a different step of a Raspberry Cookie Bar recipe. Later they work individually, creating chocolate banana smoothies, inside out sandwiches, and the classic – ants on a log. Class themes vary, offering a deeper understanding on everything from chickpeas to eggs and decoding the many names of sugar – a special Halloween workshop. Likewise, an 8-hour core curriculum (divided over a month) is an all-encompassing class serving as a foundation for healthy eating.

Katherine offers learning opportunities year-round through afterschool programs, summers camps, birthday parties, and private group lesson (locations vary).

“A lot of children are eating very unhealthily and storing all of that fat,” says Katherine. “This generation is the first to have a lower life expectancy than the ones before them – they won’t live as long as us. It’s because of all the chemicals, processed foods and absence of fruits and vegetables, in my belief. I feel it’s important to share what nutrients we need, but also show them how to get them.”

Katherine’s approach isn’t to tell people what they should

“The kids loved it because they felt empowered.”

32 GO LOCAL SEPTEMBER 2017

and should not eat, but to educate kids (and parents alike) about how our bodies use and store different foods. Her goal is to build kitchen skills, confidence, provide food education and inspire healthy food choices. She mentions one family in particular, who revamped their entire diet based on the curriculum. They’re now making their own bread, home cooked meals and also took away sugars and processed foods. Together, they’ve lost dozens of pounds just by changing their diets. It’s those moments of selfempowerment that Katherine finds truly touching.

“It’s not a very lucrative business, but I love kids and for me it’s very rewarding,’ says Katherine with tears of joy welling in her eyes. “It’s amazing to know that you’ve touched someone’s life and in a way that will change it for better and empower them with a healthy lifestyle they can utilize throughout the rest of their lives.”

FOR CLASS SCHEDULES AND LOCATIONS, CONTACT: HEALTHY COOKING FOR KIDS . KATHERINE ZAHIROVIC . HEALTHY-COOKING-WITH-KIDS.COM . (413)-544-0370 . HEALTHYCOOKINGWITHKIDS1@GMAIL.COM

“We Gotta Key for That!”

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Live Music Friday & Saturday Nights – Visit Our Website for Details

LOCKSMITHS

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

1 Allen Street, Hampden, MA

(413) 566-8324 CT Reg. LCK161

Visit our website: lacucinahampden.com

GOLOCALMAGAZINES.COM 33

GRAND OPENING! Dream Nail&Spa

Opening Sept. 30

Pell Family Farm

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Pumpkins 96 Kibbe Grove Rd., Somers, CT 860-763-1643 • pell-farms.com

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Pony Rides Hayrides Hay Maze • Corn Maze Mums • Cornstalks Weekends only 10am-5pm

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on installation of a new ductless mini split system Cannot be combined with any other offer. Expires 12/31/2017

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wilbrahamanimalhospital.com

(Less than 1 mile from Route 291)

2424 Boston Rd., Wilbraham, MA

413.596.8395

525 Page Blvd. Springfield, MA

413.739.6389 esvhospital.com

! AMBER WAKLEY  AMBER WAKLEY

hey’re precariously speckled across town, representing hallmarks of kindness with the intention of unexpectedly brightening someone’s day.

Small rocks – some ornamented with colorful pictures and others with inspiring messages – have been serving a larger purpose in the town of Enfield.

Shannon Grant, who established the “Enfield Rocks” group this past February, has a passion for painted stones. An online group inspired her kindness project in Lakeland, Florida, a community-unifying page of people painting and hiding rocks in their town.

“I was looking for something positive to bring to Enfield, and this was perfect,” says Shannon. “I wasn’t sure if people would want to participate, but knew it was something I had to do.”

With little expectation, Shannon extended an invitation on the Enfield CT Open Forum – a public group on Facebook – for a paint party at Molina’s Café and then later at the library. Afterward, the movement exploded, generating a group of enthusiastic “rockers.” Through the “Enfield Rocks” Facebook page, Shannon received hundreds of requests from residents, all wanting to participate in the hide-and-seek community art project.

GOLOCALMAGAZINES.COM 35

The concept is simple: paint, hide and find. Using basic supplies – rocks, paint, brushes and clear sealer – participants decorate and share photos of their rocks before “hiding” them around town. Often in plain sight, the shared photos act as clues for potential rock “hunters.” When a rock is discovered, participants are encouraged to reciprocate, taking and sharing the same rocks to the group’s Facebook page. Found rocks can be replaced with a newly designed rock by the seeker, re-hid or kept. While online participation is encouraged and alerts the artist that their creation has been located, it is not required. Shannon says the sole purpose is to spread unrestricted happiness, recognizing someone may find a rock who is not on social media or is just grappling with something and simply needs a smile without obligation.

“The premise is to spread joy, it’s as simple as that,” Shannon explains. “People get joy from painting the rocks, joy from hiding the rocks and there’s joy in finding the rocks. The people who post that they found rocks, the artist then receives joy knowing someone appreciates their painting.”

The community of “rockers” in Enfield is booming. Favorite hiding locations include the library, town parks, outside local businesses, and heavily trafficked public spaces. Over the past few months, these areas have become awash with vibrant color and tokens of happiness. Designs vary by artist – from intricate mandalas, landscapes and cartoon characters to impressionistic creations from a youthful artist – but each shares the same intention of spreading cheer.

“Although we spread happiness, there are a lot of other things that happen on account of that joy,” explains Shannon. “People are meeting new people, getting together to form an art community and hunting takes families out in natural spaces to exercise. I love that people are outside in the summertime, exploring and finding new places; this is a fun way to do it.”

The rock phenomenon – that’s traveling the planet – brings people together. Like a re-envisioned chain letter, the movement is intended to spread random unconditional acts of kindness. In Enfield alone, the inclusive, multi-generational activity includes nearly 3,000 group members and Shannon estimates over 5,000 rocks have been placed throughout town. The inspiration has spread to bordering towns as well, with separate rock groups turning up in Longmeadow, East Longmeadow, East Windsor, Suffield and Somers.

“I’m so happy to see people out exploring and seeing the amount of talent in this town has amazed me,” says Shannon. “It’s passion, and of all the things I’ve done in town, this is the one I’m most proud of, and I’m not even really doing it! I began and managed the [online] group, but it’s a community of people doing this - and that’s how good things start.”

LYDIA FROM STAFFORD

JAYLAH FROM ENFIELD

Want to rock? Visit “Enfield Rocks” on Facebook for tips to get started, guidelines for involvement (like where not to hide) or creative inspiration. You can also visit Shannon at the “Enfield Rocks” booth on Family Day – a town wide celebration hosted by the Enfield Foundation for Excellence in Education – September 17 on the Enfield Town Green (820 Enfield Street).

36 GO LOCAL SEPTEMBER 2017

THE FLOOR SOURCE SAVE up to $500 on select Hardwood

Tile

Laminate

Vinyl

SAVE NOW!

Instant Rebate ends 9/30/2017.

We pay less and so do you!

Special Financing Available

541 Hazard Ave., Enfield, CT 860.749.5347

For FREE Measure & Financing Pre-Approval*, Visit Us Online at:

www.AlsCarpetOneEnfield.com

* On material purchase of $2000 or more. (Prior sales excluded) Available for a limited time only at participating dealers. See store for details.

Not responsible for typographical errors. Not all products available at all locations. See actual warranties at store for details.

ALâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S

CARPET ONE

541 Hazard Ave., Enfield, CT | 860.749.5347 GOLOCALMAGAZINES.COM 37

! MANDY WIETING  MANDY WIETING

MARY & RUSTY SUFFIELD, CT

Mary Adams has always been a horse lover. After building a home in West Suffield with her husband Gary in 2003, she was able to keep her horse Target at home instead of boarding him. After a few months, she decided he needed a companion and so she got her first miniature horse, Cowboy. She then started breeding mini horses - which is where Rusty comes in. Rusty was born in May 2010, “He was very lively from the minute he was born and immediately starting running around the stall, circling his mother,” Mary remembers.

This was the beginning of On Target Miniatures, a small farm in Suffield with miniature sport horses.

By the time Rusty was 2 years old, he was entertaining people at Equine Affaire and started visiting nursing homes. In fact, Mary refers to him as the class clown, “It is very difficult to look at him and not smile.” He was even a project animal for the Little Hooves 4-H Club for a few years and learned to pull a cart which he currently uses for public relations, continuing to spread joy and make people of all ages smile.

There was a low point in Rusty’s life however. In 2013, he was attacked in his stall by what Mary believes was a bobcat, “We still don’t know how the bobcat got into his stall but when we went out around 10 PM that November evening to do our normal bed check we found Rusty alone in the stall but very badly wounded, with blood literally everywhere.” He spent over a week at Tufts Animal Hospital and then required much aftercare once he was home. “The rest of the herd was very glad to see him and even literally ‘licked his wounds’ to help him heal,” Mary says. By the following spring, Rusty was fully recovered and back to his old self.

When asked how Rusty has changed her life, Mary says, “It is a bit hard to answer this question for any one of the minis, but collectively, they have changed my life so much - for the better. Half our current herd of 10 consists of foals that we bred, with Rusty being the oldest, and we are very proud of all 5 of them. They have all been used in 4-H, shown at open and breed shows, and shared with various adults and children who might not otherwise get to meet minis. I have also met an incredible number of people through minis and made lifelong friends. Also, having the minis and showing them gives purpose to my life and keeps me young at heart!”

We want to put your furry or feathered friend in print.

If you’re a pet parent with a priceless story or unique bond, drop us a message: mandy@thereminder.com 38 GO LOCAL SEPTEMBER 2017

Come for your Bra fitting, and leave feeling amazing!

Let The Bra Ladies put Health, Comfort and Beauty back in your life!

We offer custom sizes that offer comfort and style!

High-end shapewear bras, lingerie and consignment bags & shoes Curvy Kate • Enell Sports Bra Hanky Panky • Conterelle • CosaBella Hollywood Tape • Curvy Couture

Let Me Help You

BUY, SELL or INVEST in Real Estate.

CHRIS Buendo Realtor/Associate Partner Licensed in MA & CT

Want to sell your home or commercial property?

CALL ME TODAY FOR A

FREE MARKET ANALYSIS

(413)575-9266

ESSIONAL BRA FIT TIN PROF E E G! FR BOOK YOUR BRIDAL PARTY FITTING!

Chris@ResultsBegin.com www.ResultsBegin.com

635 Main Street • Somers, CT

413.244.5731

Schedule your appointment online or by phone.

Your privacy is important to us!

MENTION THIS AND AND GET 5% OFF YOUR PURCHASE!

SEPTEMBER 14, 15, 16 & 17 179 Years of Family Fun! Host Town: East Windsor

• Midway • Rides • Food • Antique & Farm Machinery • Livestock - Agricultural Exhibits • Demonstrations & Stage Shows • Children’s Contests & Much More

On the MAIN STAGE: Thursday “Truck Stop Troubadors” 7 pm Friday “Trailer Trash” 7 pm (Modern Country) Saturday “Aquanett” 7 pm (80s Tribute Band) Sunday Frankie Justin Lamprey and Presley & Taylor

CAR SHOW Thursday Night 6 pm PARADE Saturday 10 am

Fair Hours:

Thurs 4p-10p | Fri 4p-11p Sat 8a-11p | Sun 8a-7:30p *Cannot be used to refinance existing ECFCU loans.

Promo can be cancelled at any time. Actual rate may vary depending on individual credit worthiness.

56 EGYPT ROAD, SOMERS, CT www.fourtownfair.com GOLOCALMAGAZINES.COM 39

 JACQUELINE M. SIDOR, JMS ART & PHOTO ! MANDY WIETING

ENCHANTING AVIATOR The magical hummingbird certainly lives up to its name— they flap their wings so fast (about 80 times per second) they actually produce a humming noise. Their flight pattern is equally amazing—not only can they soar left, right, up and down, but backwards and even upside down as needed. If we can learn anything from this iridescent, majestic flyer, let it be this—stay fluid and intuitive, live in the moment, and most of all, quiet your mind and enjoy the stillness.

40 GO LOCAL SEPTEMBER 2017

local einstein

TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE - NO GOOGLING!

5

7

WHAT TYPE OF TEA IS MATCHA?

[A] 1955 [B] 1961

[C] 1967

[D] 1971

[A] A Powdered Green Tea [B] Loose Leaf Black Tea

[C] Herbal Tea

[D] Crushed White Tea

IN 2014, COOL PATCH PUMPKINS IN DIXON, CALIFORNIA BUILT THE LARGEST CORN MAZE IN HISTORY. HOW LARGE WAS IT?

WHICH WAS THE FIRST GROUP OF ANIMALS TO BE SHOWN AT THE FOUR TOWN FAIR IN THE 1800s?

[A] 40 Acres [B] 60 Acres

[C] 80 Acres

[D] 100 Acres

[A] Chickens [B] Sheep

[C] Horses

[D] Cattle

PENCILS HAVE BEEN PAINTED YELLOW SINCE THE 1890s. WHY WAS YELLOW CHOSEN BACK THEN?

WHICH ARE THE ONLY VARIETY OF APPLES NATIVE TO NORTH AMERICA?

[A] To find them easier [B] Associated with royalty

[C] Yellow paint was least expensive

[D] Associated with happiness

[A] [B]

[C]

[D]

IN HUMANS, WHAT IS THE ONLY INTERNAL ORGAN CAPABLE OF REGENERATING LOST TISSUE?

[A] Lung [B] Kidney

[C] Heart

[D] Liver RODNEY DANGERFIELD STARRED IN THE MOVIE “BACK TO SCHOOL” IN WHAT YEAR?

[A] 1982 [B] 1984

[C] 1986

[D] 1988

8

Macoun Cortland McIntosh Crab

WHAT TYPE OF SQUASH IS THIS?

[A] Pattypan [B] Acorn

[C] Butternut

[D] Delicata

# CORRECT

IQ

RANK

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

160 110 50 3

Prodigy Egghead Meh Simpleton

ANSWERS:

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

3

THE FIRST EASTERN STATES EXPOSITION OCCURRED IN 1916.

THE FAIR WAS TITLED ‘THE BIG E’ IN WHAT YEAR?

GOLOCALMAGAZINES.COM 41

The Final Countdown

7 Places to Learn Something New An active brain is a healthy brain. Research has shown that keeping the brain active seems to increase its vitality and may build its reserves of cells and connections, possibly even

generating new brain cells. We’ve gathered a list of places to learn something completely new. So go ahead and feed that hungry brain of yours!

QUILTING

QUILTS & TREASURES • 413-525-4789 56 SHAKER RD • EAST LONGMEADOW, MA QUILTSANDTREASURESINC.COM Quilts & Treasures offers fun, informative classes for quilters of all skill levels. They also have a variety of clubs and events to engage the many styles and interests of their customers. Visit their website for more information.

POTTERY

POTTERVILLE POTTERY • (413) 739-9998 1702 RIVERDALE ST • W. SPRINGFIELD, MA POTTERVILLE.COM Potterville has classes for both adults and children, no previous experience is necessary. Both basic and intermediate throwing techniques are taught and you bring home your custom piece.

Learn more and register online.

INTRO TO DIGITAL PHOTOGRAPHY

LAUGHING BROOK WILDLIFE SANCTUARY • HAMPDEN, MA (413) 584-3009 • MASSAUDUBON.ORG Learn the basics of nature photography in 2 sessions, Sept. 17 & 24. The best practices for capturing an image, understanding exposure and focus, and using both manual and automatic exposure settings will be covered. Register by phone or online.

42 GO LOCAL SEPTEMBER 2017

STORY YOGA FOR KIDS

THE APPLE PLACE • (413) 348-9628 540 SOMERS RD • EAST LONGMEADOW, MA THEAPPLEPLACE.NET Sat., Sept. 9 at 10:30am (ages 2-5) • Yoga isn’t just for adults, it can also help young kids build self-esteem and self-respect. Listen to a story with yoga teacher, Heather Monson, learn some basic yoga poses, do a special yogarelated activity and make a craft to bring home.

GROW MICROGREENS

STAFFORD CIDERY 68 MAIN ST • STAFFORD SPRINGS, CT Cathy T from Container Crazy CT is offering her microgreens growing demonstration at the Stafford Cidery on Wed, Sept. 20 at 6pm.

Learn all the steps to grow your own at home without the need for special grow lights or equipment.

Sign up at workshopsct.com

FUN WITH CLAY

JUMPING CLAY USA • (860) 698-2337 76 PALOMBA DR • ENFIELD, CT JUMPINGCLAYUSA.COM Trained instructors teach educational programs and clay activities to children and adults with step by step modeling instructions. Take a workshop, have a “play date” with your preschooler, or get a group together and host a party.

CRYSTAL BOWL SOUND HEALING MEDITATION

REVIVAL ROOM YOGA & FITNESS • (860) 977-5422 WESTMEADOW PLAZA, 100 WEST RD • ELLINGTON, CT THEREVIVALROOM.COM Sept. 8 at 6:30pm • Be bathed in sound frequencies and energies like you’ve never experienced. Chantal will guide you into a very relaxed meditative state to help calm the mind and body. Register at therevivalroom.com

Come visit us at

Suffield on the Green Saturday & Sunday September 9th and 10th

Country Casuals 581 Main Street, Somers, CT 860-749-0014

Enjoy a

$20 Gift Certificate

We are proud to sponsor these events:

towards the purchase of

Suffield Parks and Recreation Department’s

Mac Jeans... Saint James...

Basler... Elliott Lauren...

Suzi Roher... Peace of Cloth...

UNO de 50... Andria Lieu..

10K Road Race and 5K Run (8:30 a.m. Saturday at Suffield Middle School)

and the Sound System

for all participating bands on the South Green

Stop by our booth!

We look forward to seeing our friends, neighbors and customers!

The First National Bank of Suffield

GOOD THROUGH OCTOBER 31, 2017

New Fall Sportswear Arriving Daily

THE GRAND FINALE

$70 Off SAVE UP TO

Suffield • West Suffield • East Granby • Windsor Locks

Over 200 Items

www.fnbanksuffield.com//860-668-3950

A Family Owned and Operated Dental Practice Your Dental Home for The Whole Family

Christopher J. Root, DMD FAGD • Cosmetic & esthetic dentistry, whitening, veneers, crowns & bridges • Implant Services • Digital X-Rays & Photographs • Evening appointments available • Most insurance plans accepted • CareCredit – A convenient monthly payment plan

Hours: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday: 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

Thursday: 12:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.

Friday: 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m

70 Post Office Park Suite 7006 Wilbraham, MA

wilbrahamdentalassociates.com

413-279-2016 GOLOCALMAGAZINES.COM 43