Southwoods Magazine June 2014 by Martin Lee

SOUTHWOODS MAGAZINE June 2014

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SOUTHWOODS MAGAZINE June 2014

June

By Bernadette Gentry

June rushes in with her exuberance -bringing graduation, weddings, and vacation plans. Before our eyes, colorful flowers rapidly grow to

DIRECT MAILED to 15,000 homes & businesses in the towns of Southwick, Westfield, Agawam, Feeding Hills, Tolland, Granville and Northern Connecticut (West Suffield, Granby and beyond).

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INDEX

reach their destiny.

June By Bernadette Gentry...................................................................... 3

Most of us move quickly with June’s pace,

June 1961 By Clifton J. (Jerry) Noble Sr....................................... 4

but some of us must struggle to keep up with

Get Ready, Get Set, Grow! By Jess Shanti....................................... 6

her swift movements. Someday, when we look back, we will recall with fondness all

Here Come the Danes Contributed by NCCHP.......................... 10 Retirement Doctor By Enrique J. Alvarez....................................... 13 The Flag of Our Union By George Pope Morris............................14 Country Cooking By Christy Cox...................................................... 19

June’s happy memories--to that we’ll add: the warmth of the

Coney Island with Big Sis By Jerry Brown.....................................20

sun, the corn growing in the fields, and they tiny yellow

Buckets of Gratitude By Louise Alberti...............................................22

blossoms on the tomato plants before they make their

Southwoods Bulletin Board.............................................................. 23

delicious red fruits.

Classifieds ................................................................................................ 31

Keep up with June’s pace. Don’t miss a day of her glory. She is a dear and faithful friend each year that can stay only a short time.

Publisher: Carole Caron Editor: Lyssa Peters Layout/Design Artists: Lyssa Peters, Christy Cox, Martin Lee, Rachel Allessio

This Month’s Cover: Graphic Montage by Rachel Allessio

Advertising Manager : Christy Cox Advertising Consultant: Kris Sanders P.O. Box 1106 • 610 College Hwy, Southwick, MA 01077 Office: (413) 569-0266 Office & FAX: (413) 569-5325 Email: magazine@southwoods.info www.southwoodsmagazine.com Advertisers should check advertisements the first day. Southwoods Magazine shall not be liable for failure to publish an ad, for typographical errors or errors in publication except to the extent of the cost of the ad for the first month’s insertion. Adjustment for errors is limited to the cost of that portion of the ad wherein the error occurred. Our usual publication date is between the 3rd and the 7th of the month. To insure placement, ad copy should be submitted by the 20th of the month preceding insertion.

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and hundreds of feet rather than feet and inches according to engineering practice. June 1, Thursday. Assistant supervisor Al Cloutier came out to Plumtree Road, Springfield, twice, first to get our weekly time sheets and then to see if I had the preliminary plans for extension of Route 57 in AgaBy Clifton (Jerry) Noble, Sr. wam where we will be workWhen a road or street is surveyed for ing. On the way home I stopped reconstruction the first of three operations at The Sarah Gillett Home for is to put roofing nails, punched through Aged People on Broad Street in bits of folded red cloth (to make them easWestfield to leave mail for my ily findable) every 50 feet along the center mother. She had a letter from pavement. These become baseline “staEvelyn Becket, related through tions” from which further measurements the Allyn family, who used can be made. The next operation is to take visit from her job at Russell’s elevations at edges of pavement and at evJohn Manzi and Al Kacavich Westfield River Paper Company ery major change in ground slope. These before we moved from the schoolhouse to new “Pink House” cross sections extend at least 50 feet left and right of station nails on the corner of Carrington and Herrick Roads. to show designers how best to fit new construction. Elevations June 2, Friday. Lunch hours and when it rains I have been are also needed on all pipes, manhole and catch basin rims and teaching the three guys in my survey party, Al Kacavich, Tom edges of sidewalks. The last operation is “detail” which meaCooney and John Manzi, everything I can think of about math sures for mapping purposes everything of value such as trees, and engineering in preparation for the Civil Service exam at fences and even buildings, if they are close enough to the travHigh School of Commerce on State Street in Springfield tomoreled way to be involved. All measurements are made in tenths row. Jerry Jr., born 9 a.m. April 21, 1961, now weighs 8 pounds 15 ounces. I held him till 10 p.m. Then wife Elizabeth got him quiet by midnight after I had gone to sleep. June 3, Saturday. I can’t eat chops, roasts, steaks or chicken without my stomach doing loops, so to get protein without meat I drink “tiger milk” which is made with brewers yeast according to recipe in Adelle Davis’ book Let’s Eat Right To Keep Fit. “Tiger milk” and orange juice was all I had for breakfast hoping to lose a few pounds. We were up at 4:50 a.m. I changed and fed baby by 5:15. E washed breakfast dishes while I made beds, shook rugs and dust mopped. My long haired, black and white cat, Fluffy, cleaned up all the canned cat food I gave him and went to sleep in his box in the garage. June 7, Wednesday. We finished 8,150 feet of Plumtree Road detail and, as expected, are once more in Agawam. Route 57 is built west from South End Bridge to Suffield Street but the

June 1961

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SOUTHWOODS MAGAZINE June 2014

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least a mile ramps from overpasses and connection Temperature ranges from 60s in to Mill Street need to be completed mornings to mid-80s in afternoons. June 10, Saturday. Instead of going June 30, Friday. I woke with sore to the Glen in Russell I used three washthroat and headache and couldn’t eat ers at the small Huntington laundry. It lunch at noon. On way home I stopped at was crowded. A fat woman with unruly Sarah Gillett home to see mother “Heskids used my empty hamper for a waste ter’ and leave $90 check for her July room basket. From 11 a.m. till 2 p.m. rain came and board. For supper E had Welsh raredown in torrents. On way home I found bit and orange Jello. Good for my sore washouts and a boulder in Carrington throat! Road, Mother’s brother-in-law Dave HalAfter Aunt Florence (my father’s sislock, and sons Earl and Howard with ter) died her husband, Sam Boyce, sold wife Carrie visited in mid afternoon. their Whitman Hill summer cottage to June 11, Sunday. Elizabeth, my Montgomery Community Church Hollis Root. Now Hollis wants to sell mother and I took baby to church for the property for $8,900. Cousin Mildred baptism service. Weather is humid with Moore and friend Marion Shaw had leased a strip of that proptemperature in the mid 80s. Gnats are fierce. Although I do not erty for their cottage, “Little House,” so they can keep coming smoke I carry a lighted cigarette to keep them away. there from West Newton. June 18, Fathers Day Sunday. I did wash at Russell laundry I met neighbor, Joe Rusin, at the Russell market. He is takbefore church. The Howlands have sold their house on Avery ing vacation time and going on the boat trip down the ConRoad and are moving to Hanover Street, West Springfield, so necticut River from Haddam into Long Island Sound. this was the last Sunday I will be taking Eddy home. E got me a nice white shirt and black bow tie. In the afternoon we went to Editor’s note: Interested readers can visit http://sarahHawthorne Avenue, Westfield, to take gifts to Father Atwater. gillett.org/SarahGillett.org/HIstory.html to see a picture of June 21, Wednesday. We surveyed pit sections for gravel the house where Mr. Noble’s mother resided and learn more quantities. During lunch time I got a crib blanket at Zayers. about Sarah Gillett and Sarah Gillett Services for the Elderly. Nurse Jean Watson had a flat tire so Virginia Loomis brought her up to help E, and I took her home. June 22, Thursday. Rehearsal for Elaine Thornton’s wedding was at church at 8 p.m. Gerry Washburn came in while I practiced music. Everyone was on time except Mr. Barr, the minister, who was late. June 23, Friday. It was hot in the big Damato pit off Cooper Street, Agawam, so I worked in shorts. June 24, Saturday. I had go to Westfield to wash as Glen Launderette was locked. Then I got key and opened church for Elaine’s wedding. Lots of Montgomery folks arrived while I played organ. June 25, Sunday. I took mother Hester to church where she helped with my choir. She came to dinner with us and watched Jerry’s two o’clock feeding. He smiled. When I arrived home from returning Hester to Westfield Elizabeth’s folks were here visiting till 5:30 p.m. I started wheeling baby in carriage two miles every evening for the rest of the week. My cat, Fluffy, followed us for at

SOUTHWOODS MAGAZINE June 2014

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Get Ready, Get Set, Grow! A buyer’s guide to growing your own, local economy. By Jess Shanti

Spring has finally sprung and the long, cold winter seems to have bid it’s farewells! As summer approaches, fresh, local spinach, lettuce, and mushrooms have excited my appetite for the rest of the local produce that’s soon to follow. The freezer now has space, the canned goods from last fall are dwindling, and farmers have turned the soil for a new year of fresh crops. Most people realize that it is best to keep food purchases local. Now is the perfect time to look at local farms, farm stands and farmer’s markets to decide which best suits our needs. For some, this might be about location, while others might concentrate on cost. May I suggest we turn our attention slightly away from the easiest or cheapest options to instead focus on a bigger picture?

Why buy local food?

There are several reasons why it is best to buy food from local farmers.

The Nelson W. Babb Memorial Music Series and 2 Left Feet Blues Festival Proudly Present

Concerts on Congamond Babbs Park, 433 Babb's Road, West Suffield, CT Sunday Afternoons 2-5 $10 Donation at the gate (Except August 10th)

July 6th... Eight to the Bar - Boogie Woogie, Jump, Jive & Wail July 13th... City View - Beatles, Moody's, Stones & More July 20th .. Rich Badowski Blues Band - Hot Chicago Harp Blues July 27th... Balkun Brothers - Soul of the blues, power of funk-rock Aug 3rd... Shakin' All Over - 50's 60's Party Rock Aug 10th... ($20.00) Dave “Biscuit” Miller National Touring Blues Band - 2012 Blues Music Award Bassist of the Year Opening for Biscuit... Mosaic -Timeless Rock & Blues Aug 17th... Traci Mnich & Relentless - Good Time Rock & Roll Aug 24th... Jake Kulak & Lowdown - 14 Year Old Blues Guitar Prodigy. And... New Earth, Singer/songwriters playing originals Aug 31st No Concert (yet)... Labor Day Weekend Sept 7th... Kats & Jammers Big Band 18 Piece Swing Dance Band

All concerts presented on our outdoor stage overlooking the lake. Bring a cooler with your choice of refreshments. All Profits benefit the Babb’s Restoration Fund Check www.BabbsPark.org or www.2leftfeetbluesfestival.com

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SOUTHWOODS MAGAZINE June 2014

Keeping your money in your community is simple, and all it takes is choosing a small, family owned business over a large chain store. This is true for every purchase made, including food. Your local farmer provides jobs for area residents, supports local businesses by purchasing tools and equipment to meet the farms needs, and provides some of the best foods available to you and your neighbors. When you bring your business to the farm, you and the farmer improve your community. Locally grown food is higher in nutrients than any grocery store can match. Food has its greatest level of nutrients the moment it is harvested. It progressively looses nutritional content starting the moment it’s severed from the plant. Also, local farmers are more likely to choose varieties of foods that have the best flavor. In contrast, farmers who grow for grocery store

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distribution commonly raise varieties which are known for their longevity after harvest. This grocery-store grower is then growing less flavorful food that can survive until its nutritional value has been depleted. Consider the strawberries you pick yourself in June. After three days, if some still remain, they might be rotten. This is because local berries are grown for excellent flavor, not longevity. On the contrary California, for example, must grow berries that can be picked before they’re totally ripe so that they can be shipped a few days and still have a shelf life at the store here on the east coast. If you hesitate to believe this, buy some non-local strawberries at the grocery store this June, right after you get some from your local farm. Do a taste test, comparing them side by side. You will understand when you test it for yourself. We’re all watching as fossil fuel prices continue to rise. Clearly, employing strategies to reduce our use of fossil fuel is one of the many keys to economic stability. Buying locally reduces the amount of fossil fuel used to bring food from the field to your plate. Although it may be a delicious treat in the winter to enjoy the strawberries that your grocer offers, you might be wise to think about the fuel it costs to ship those berries 3,000 miles from California’s strawberry fields. Even if it’s done in a short three day’s time, you’ve lost valuable nutrients and increased your carbon footprint by 3000 miles of fuel costs. Berries that are purchased locally can be frozen or canned for winter, so you still have some of nature’s best candy as winter whistles outside without purchasing from the west coast. If local berries

cost the same or more, then you might want to ask yourself why that would be. Could it be that we get what quality food we are willing to pay for? Yes, absolutely. Finally, knowing your farmer allows you to trust where your food comes from. If you’re worried about ingesting Genetically Modified Organisms, then ask your farmer if (s)he grows entirely GMO-free crops. Now that people are aware of GMOs, farmers who do not use them are likely to advertise this selling point. Look for signs or advertisements that mention not using these organisms, as these would be good farms to stop at to investigate. Keep in mind, “organic” and “GMO” are two completely different subjects, and should be treated as such. If you wish to buy organically raised food, make sure you ask your organic farmer about their practices. Organic farmers can grow GMO foods and still operate within the certifiable perimeters of that which constitutes their crops as “organic”. Likewise, farmers who do not grow GMOs are not necessarily organic. It is important for informed consumers to know this essential distinction. Put simply, GMOs are crops derived from plants that have been altered genetically with synthetic or organic compounds, within or outside of the plant kingdom. Organic crops are grown with-

... knowing your farmer allows you to trust where your food comes from.

See READY SET GROW, page 29

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“Here Come the Danes” Noble and Cooley Center for Historic Preservation Plans New Exhibit Celebrating the Danish Heritage in Granville old. The exhibit ran for a month with a celebratory Granville ResiOpen House on the first Satdents Are Proud of urday evening. The Open Their Danish HeriHouse Festivities included tage.” That was the Danish music played on a record player by Eileen and banner on the OctoDiane Hansen, while Mrs. ber 13, 1964, SpringKarl Hansen and Mrs. Guy field Union newspaHansen and Mrs. C. Hamper story. lin Tripp served Danish cake, cookies and breads Granville was dewith tea or coffee. The scribed as a “small WestDanish Flag was promiern Massachusetts town nently displayed, along with a population of about Jens and Sophia Jensen, Martin and Elsie Maria Petersen, with fine examples of hand 900 noted for the excelMarie and Christian Petersen. Seated: Soren Peter Petersen, Karen Marie sewing such as a hardanger lence of its fruit and its tangy and Morton Hansen, Anna Jensen embroidered dress and an cheese.” The story reported antique christening gown Mrs. Ralph Hiers, and others from the Granville Library Club made in 1893 by Mrs. Marius Jensen that was worn by all of her working with the descendants of the “pioneer Danish settlers, children. Bibles and prayer books published in Danish, “long to bring together an exhibit of 100 Danish items 10 to 1000 years stemmed Danish pipes”, and two, 70 year- old, carved picture frames made by Joseph Petersen were also included in the display. Other Heirlooms on display included a stone axe of Viking vintage, approximately 1000 to 2000 years old, found by Niels Jensen on his father’s farm, and photos of Friedreksborg Castle, and Gadjberg Church. The article claims the first “Danish settlers were originally dairy farmers, selling butter and eggs in nearby Westfield. In 1964 fruit was the most prevalent crop. Edward A. Jensen reported harvesting 20,000-22,000 bushels of apples that year. “The “Dane Hall” was also mentioned. Once located on Old Westfield Road in Granville, Danish Dances were held

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SOUTHWOODS MAGAZINE June 2014

a c h o n a o c b b t t T t

v i c w r w

N m k 1 e i T

At left: The Mads Peder Jensen Family, 1900. Harold Hansen is the baby with the pacifier. Back row: Matilda, Kresten Hansen, Mads Peder Jensen, Thomas Jensen, Niels Thompsen. Middle row: Maren with Harold Hansen, Christina Petrine Jensen, Hanna Jensen, Audra Thompsen, children seated are Martin and Agnes Thompsen

At right: Lars Peter Jensen, Marius Jensen, Soren Peter Petersen, Jens Jensen, Morten Hansen, Christian Petersen, Martin Petersen, Ladies are Mary Petersen, Sophia Jensen, Karen Marie Hansen, Marie Petersen, Elsie Marie Petersen

at the hall most Saturday nights until about 1933. Prior to its construction, it was common practice to gather at each other’s homes. The hall was created by adding a large room to the back of the small house next to Peter Hendricksen’s home. The original portion of the house was used to prepare and serve coffee and other refreshments. Upstairs they had beds for the little ones. The younger ones could play until time for cake and cocoa in the kitchen. Vaughn Banks remembers hearing there were benches along the walls of the dance area. He was told when the babies fell asleep they were tucked beneath the benches where they napped. Wilhelmina Tryon wrote “I remember my brothers telling me about coming home by wagon, early in the morning. They used a kerosene lantern to light the way. They had to do their chores before going up to bed.” It has been 50 years since the Danes gathered in the Granville Library to share their treasures and memories. Many of the items, once proudly displayed, are probably lost to time and circumstance. Have any of those treasures survived? In keeping with the NCCHP Museum’s goal to ”preserve & incorporate the rich history of Granville and the surrounding areas” NCCHP will attempt to recreate the 1964 Display of 100 Danish Items. The museum is housed within the historic buildings of the Noble & Cooley drum factory. The buildings & original equipment at the site offer a unique opportunity to experience “Yankee Ingenuity” as it impacted manufacturing from the mid1800’s forward.” The museum features a new rotating exhibit each year. This year the focus is on the contributions of the Danish Community. It is very appropriate to house the display at The Drum shop as it figured prominently in the lives of many

Canine Learning Center

of the Danish Immigrants who worked there until they could afford to purchase their own farms. The first Dane was Lars Peter Jensen, who arrived in Granville in 1882. The 1964 article claims there were 30 original Colonists. By 1964, a third of the Granville population was at least partially of Danish descent. Have you ever wondered how such a large group of Danes came to settle in Granville, Mass? Why did they leave Denmark? What was it like to travel so far when you had never been more than 10 miles from your birth place? How did they manage in this new land without being

See NCCHP, page 12

Classes at the Southwick Grange Hall Next Class July 15th $95.00 for 6 weeks

(413) 568-5123 Dog Obedience Training group/private

hypnodog@comcast.net SOUTHWOODS MAGAZINE June 2014

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NCCHP

continued from page 11 able to speak English? These are the questions we hope will be answered as we construct this new display. We have gathered many photos and stories and family trees for the original colonists. We know there are more stories and artifacts out there. We need your help to make this exhibit a great success! Do you have any family treasures that you would be willing to share for the 2014 season? Do any items brought from Denmark still survive? The museum needs photos, stories and any household items that will help illustrate life in Granville 18801950’s, particularly dairy and apple related items. Any household items are welcome, and would be greatly appreciated… Aebleskiver pans, wooden shoes, Gramma’s recipe for frikedella. What did they bring from Denmark, and how did they bring it. These are all questions we hope to answer with the help of the community. The museum plans to open the new exhibit in early August so there is much work to be done. If you have potential items for the display or are interested in helping get this endeavor underway, please e-mail ncchp.org@gmail.com with your con-

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tact information and a museum member will call you with more information.

The NCCHP museum at the Drum Shop is now open for the 2014 season at 42 Water Street in Granville. From May through October the museum is open for tours from 12:00 – 3:00 PM on the 1st and 3rd Sundays of the month. Museum tours for groups of 10 or more are available by appointment Monday – Friday (call 413-357-6321). Museum admission is free for members or $5 for adults and $3 for children under 12. The Gift Shop, featuring hand crafted items made by local artisans, is open daily from 8:30 – 3:30 and when the museum is open for tours. Mark your calendars! The popular “Living History” series events will be held on the 3rd Wednesday of every month at 6:30 PM. The program on June 18th features Tom Deegan (of 2 Left Feet) presenting “The Music and History of the Blues”. Bring your friends and family for a fun and entertaining evening. The performance and refreshments are free, however, donations are always gratefully accepted to help support the museum living history series. For more info, please e-mail ncchp.org@gmail.com .

By Enrique J. Alvarez, The Retirement Doctor®, Suffield, CT

Question:

I am thinking about retiring early, but I am concerned about healthcare costs. Any suggestions? –Amy H.

Answer:

For pre-retirement medical insurance we have always recommended a high deductible plan if you are healthy. Years ago before the Health Savings Accounts (HSA’s), we had clients purchase medical savings accounts in addition to their high deductible medical insurance policy. In many cases for people that were not healthy, it was still less expensive to purchase a high deductible medical plan and an HSA. Think about it, when you pay a medical insurance premium that money is gone forever as well as any interest that it might have earned. If your premium is lower than you would have money to put into the HSA. A Health Savings Account could be the best financial product available to you for the following reasons: 1. Money put into a HSA is tax deductible for federal and state taxes in CT and MA. 2. Earnings in an HSA grow tax deferred like a 401(k) or an IRA 3. Money distributed from an HSA is tax free when it is used for medical expenses. These include: dental and vision

a. You need a pair of eyeglasses for $500. You could take a tax free distribution from your HSA for $500. b. Without the HSA you would have to earn enough money to pay Social Security, Medicare, Federal and State taxes to net $500 for the glasses. Your total cost could be over $1,000. 4. If you want to use it to supplement your retirement after age 65 it would be taxed the same as an IRA or 401(k). 5. When you die your spouse enjoys the same tax benefits 6. For most people their biggest uninsured medical expenses will be after retirement. All of the money that they have in their HSA can be used to pay for these. The person that spent all their money on expensive medical insurance will have to deplete other assets to pay for the uninsured medical expenses. a. If you needed a hearing aid with a cost of $5,000 you could withdraw from your HSA. b. On the other hand if you needed $5,000 net from your IRA it would be subject to state, federal, and may make more of your social security taxable income when you retire. So your real cost will be substantially higher. Of course the best solution is to stay healthy! Because each individual’s situation is unique, please speak to an accredited financial advisor about any questions or concerns you might have. You may reach the Retirement Doctor at eja@ retirementdoctor.com or 1-800-406-1595 for a free retirement check-up. Securities offered through Cambridge Investment Research, Inc., a Broker/Dealer, Member FINRA/SIPC. Investment Advisor Representative, Retirement Doctor, LLC, a Registered Investment Advisor. Cambridge and Retirement Doctor, LLC are not affiliated.

SOUTHWOODS MAGAZINE June 2014

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SOMETHING TO THINK ABOUT...

The Flag of Our Union

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The union of hearts – the union of hands – And the Flag of the Union for ever

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The Flag of our Union for ever! What God in his mercy and wisdom designed, And armed with his weapons of thunder,

Not all the earth’s despots and factions combined Have the power to conquer or sunder!

The union of lakes – the union of lands – The union of States none can sever –

The union of hearts – the union of hands – And the Flag of the Union for ever And ever!

The Flag of our Union for ever! Oh, keep that flag flying! – The pride of the van! To all other nations display it!

The ladies for union are all to a – MAN! But not to the man who’d betray it.

The union of lakes – the union of lands – The union of States none can sever –

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The Flag of our Union for ever! George Pope Morris (October 10, 1802 – July 6, 1864) was an American editor, poet, and songwriter.

Celebrate Flag Day, June 14 PAGE 14

SOUTHWOODS MAGAZINE June 2014

Disposing of Used Flags Respectfully What should you do when your flag is old and ready to be retired?

Section 8k of the Flag Code states, “The flag, when it is in such condition that it is no longer a fitting emblem for display, should be destroyed in a dignified way, preferably by burning.” We recommend that you contact your local VFW Chapter and ask them for help properly disposing of your flag. And be sure to consider providing a small donation to them for their assistance. Or you can contact your local Elks Lodge (who created the idea of Flag Day, established officially by President Truman, himself a member of the Elks), the American Legion, or the Knights of Columbus. Some Boy Scout and Girl Scout troups also can provide this service. Here in Southwick, Big Y has a box where you can leave your old and used flags. They will see that they are disposed of respectfully. In earlier times, most American flags were made of cotton or wool. But today’s flags are often nylon or other petroleumbased materials. Burning them can release hazardous gases, including formaldehydes, ammonia, carbon monoxide, and traces of hydrogen cyanide into the air. In some states, it is even illegal to burn nylon, so adhering to the Flag Code puts you in direct violation of the law. Burning is preferred for cotton and wool flags. Nylon and flags made from other synthetics can be buried. Modern flag retirement ceremonies, often held annually on Flag Day, sometimes feature the symbolic burning of a single flag (cotton or wool) and the burial of the others. This is both safe and respectful. www.ushistory.org/betsy/faq.htm

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Assisting Our Veterans

Wounded Warriors @ 45 north, located in northern New Hampshire, provides care and rest through outdoor activities at NO cost to our wounded or Deployed Warriors. They offer many activities including fishing, hunting, kayaking boating and much more. Visit www.ww45n.com for information. The Springfield Vet Center, 95A Ashley Ave, West Springfield offers free, confidential, and community based counselling services for veterans and families. The center is staffed by a team of caring professionals, some of whom are combat veterans. The staff is dedicated to providing the best services available and is attened to an non traditional treatments which show results for symtom relief. Call 413-737-5167 or contact the Veterans Assistance Center at 413-642-1614 or 413-642-1730 Here are several helpful websites for military families and those who wish to offer support: www.whitehouse.gov/joiningforces www.operationhomelink.org www.militaryparenting.org www.militaryfamily.org www.military.com/spouse SOUTHWOODS MAGAZINE June 2014

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June is our Black Cat Month. If you adopt a black

cat or black dog from us thru the month of June we will discount your adoption fee. All our critters are vaccinated, tested, wormed and microchipped as well as spay/ neutered before leaving our shelter. Cole: Sassy but sweet this wonderful boy has been with us forever. Its time for him to find his own home. Cole would do best with older children and no dogs. Cole is aprox. 5yrs old. Luke: Luke is such a sweet boy. At 4 years old he and his brother thought they had it made until life got in the way. After being adopted from our shelter as kittens they were returned. We would love to see Luke and his brother go as a pair. They are bonded. Seth: Seth is a huge love bug. He wants to be on and around you as much as possible. He and his brother would love to go home together. 4 years together has bonded them and they wouldn't know what to do without each other.

Area Pet Shelters Include:

Dakin Humane Society, Springfield, MA 413-781-4019 Westfield Animal Shelter, Westfield, MA 413-564-3129 Westfield Homeless Cat Project, email: westfieldhcp@aol.com Paws4Rescue, North Granby Ct, www.paws4rescue.org Thomas J. Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Connor, Springfield, MA 413-781-1484 PAGE 18

SOUTHWOODS MAGAZINE June 2014

Buffalo Chicken Tortilla Pinwheels

8 ounces cream cheese, 1/4 cup green onions, finely softened chopped 1/2 cup hot wing sauce or 1 pound chicken breast, cayenne pepper sauce cooked and shredded 1/4 cup blue cheese, crumbled 5 large flour tortillas (appro1 cup colby-jack cheese, ximately 10 1/2â&#x20AC;? diameter) shredded (4 ounces)

G o o d E a t s a n d Tr e a t s B y C h r i s t y C o x

Spinach Strawberry Salad

Dressing 2 tablespoons each: oil (sunflower, safflower, or non-virgin olive), apple cider vinegar, and organic sugar 1 tablespoon each: sesame seeds, tamari (or shoyu or soy sauce), and orange juice 1/2 tablespoon poppy seeds 1/8 teaspoon paprika

Salad One 5 oz. bag of baby spinach, organic and pre-washed 1 pint strawberries, hulled and sliced

In a bowl, beat cream cheese on low and add in sauce, blue cheese, colby-jack cheese, and green onions. Beat until blended. Stir shredded chicken into mixture by hand. Spread approximately 3/4 cup of mixture on top of one of the tortillas. Roll up tortilla tightly, but without shifting the mixture too much. Repeat with remaining tortillas. Place rolled tortillas on a place and cover with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for 2-4 hours. Remove from refrigerator and unwrap. Slice each rolled tortillas in half and then each half into 3 slices, discarding ends. Place pinwheel slices on serving plate or tray. Notes - Smaller or larger tortillas may be used, however you will need to adjust the amount of buffalo chicken mixture you add to each tortilla. --If time is an issue, you can skip the refrigeration before slicing or refrigerate for less time. However, for best results, refrigeration is recommended. homecookingmemories.com

Topping 1/2 cup sliced almonds, toasted

1. Whisk the oil, vinegar, sugar, sesame seeds, tamari, orange juice, poppy seeds, and paprika together to make the dressing. Set aside. 2. Place the spinach and strawberries in a large bowl. 3. Just before serving top with the dressing and toss to combine. 4. Finish by topping with the almonds just before serving. Note: When bringing this salad to an picnic or outing I make the dressing in a jar, then dress salad just prior to serving to prevent the spinach from getting soggy.

SOUTHWOODS MAGAZINE June 2014

PAGE 19

Coney Island with Big Sis By Jerry Brown

come from a large family, 7 boys and three girls, products of a union between William Brown and Opal Young who married in 1936. All my siblings except one are still living. Our oldest sister, Shirley, died at the age of 18 months. In 1947, our family moved to Newport, Kentucky, just across the Ohio River from Cincinnati, Ohio. At that time I had seven siblings; an older sister, two older brothers and two younger brothers. The move would prove to be significant to us because, as it turned out, we remained in Newport four years, longer than any other location during our time growing up. There were many reasons for the frequent moves, the primary being that Dad, with only a third grade education, struggled all of his life to support his ever-growing family. The move to Newport was another step in that struggle. Dad had taken a job with an Uncle who had his own business in Cincin-

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SOUTHWOODS MAGAZINE June 2014

nati. We enjoyed staying in Newport long enough to build friendships, and the feeling of home felt warm and comforting. We took our pleasures where we could find them, most were found on a street corner under the street lamp just outside our front door, where during the summer it was always a race with kids in the neighborhood to see who could be first to reach the corner and yell “first under the street light”. The Brown brothers fancied themselves to have striking good looks; the girls in our family also were blossoming. During our time in Newport, our oldest sister Naomi blossomed into a young woman of rare and striking beauty. Although none of her brothers had the good sense or the inclination to appreciate such beauty, someone as pretty as she at 15 years old began to draw attention. Very early on, suitors began appearing at our door. We brothers did not pay much attention to the courtship of our sister; she was just our big sis. But there came a time when having a sister of rare beauty began to pay off for us in big way. We discovered that Naomi’s suitors could reap benefits beyond our wildest dreams. In those days, Cincinnati had one of the nicest amusement parks in the country. Coney Island park opened on June 21, 1886 and was known as “Ohio Grove, The Coney Island of The

g -

West” in order to link it to the New York destination. Over the years, it became a Cincinnati landmark and evolved into a fullfledged amusement park. The idea of us ever having the opportunity (or the money) to go to the park was so out of the realm of possibility that it was laughable; it never entered our minds that it could happen. I’m still not certain how she pulled it off, but one day, the nicest thing that ever happen to this seven year old was about to take place. Naomi asked me to go to Coney island with her.

We discovered that Naomi’s suitors could reap benefits beyond our wildest dreams. We walked around the park that day enjoying all the sights and sounds. With limited funds, one ride would be our limit, and we chose the Ferris wheel. It was hard to believe it was happening! I could have died and gone to heaven at that point not able to imagine anything better in life than that. We climbed on board the Ferris wheel and off we went around and around. We could see for miles when the wheel reached its highest point: the Ohio River and the Cincinnati skyline. It was like nothing ever experienced before, and I could only pray it wouldn’t end. I say that only in expressing my joy in being at Coney Island, then realizing that maybe the Gods had smiled on me, that the planets had aligned, because as we came to the end of our ride I noticed that this good-looking ride attendant had noticed my beautiful sister and was most anxious to impress her. As we got to the point where we were to disembark from our seats, the young man winked and instead of opening the gate to let us out, he let us go for another turn FREE! We enjoyed a total of four free rides that day all thanks to the beauty, both outside and inside, of Big Sis. Today a ride on the Ferris wheel sounds so tame and not much to get excited about, but to a seven year old growing up poor it meant a lot. I will forever be grateful to that awe struck ride operator and especially to my beautiful Big Sis Naomi.

SOUTHWOODS MAGAZINE June 2014

PAGE 21

Buckets of Gratitude

By Louise Alberti

times a year I Several think about writing

up a Bucket List.  As a perennial list writer, I would probably have several versions … the ‘Doablelist’; the ‘far-fetched Wish-list’; the ‘Dreams-list’; the ‘what-can-I-do for humanity-list’; etc.   I currently make lists for many things – I have been a list writer for years.  I make lists for grocery shopping; I make lists of all the things that need doing this week/month/year.  Some days when the list is overwhelming, I add things that I have already done to the list so I can immediately cross them off and not feel like a total failure for lack of time, resources, energy to accomplish anything else remaining on the list!  I certainly could benefit from a Bucket List – a wish-list of all the things yet to be experienced in life. I believe in motivational reminders … eventually they get through to ones sub-

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SOUTHWOODS MAGAZINE June 2014

conscious and gently tap you on the shoulder so that you move towards a goal.  For me though, I think I would like to first dig a deep, deep well.  Into this well I would place all of the millions of things in life I am grateful for.  On days when my Bucket is empty, I can lower it down into the well and pull up random people, experiences and blessings I have encountered in my life.  I can laugh, love, savor and relearn from all that has passed.  When I peer into the Bucket’s contents I will be comforted; I can laugh and smile at the joys shared; and always be reminded that life has truly been good. On days when I fill up my Bucket, I can gently place these new blessings down in to the well.  There they will sit until needed – those times when I need to dig deep within myself for inspiration; when I need to salve a wound; when I need to surround myself with warmth; when I need to relearn that love exists in the world. I will dig my deep Well.  Over it I will hang my bucket that will be used for both deposits and withdrawals.  My list making will go on, with perhaps one little change ….I think my list should contain stars that I call down from the skies.  On these stars I will write kindnesses that I will try to fulfill each day for others.  Some stars will be for simple moments of pure joy that I experience.  Some stars will be for unexpected adventures that I am presented with.  All of these stars will be placed in the Well, filling it with light.  Like fireflies on a summer’s eve, the light will twinkle with a knowing wink that there are a lifetime of wonders within and always room for more.

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Strawberry Moon & Gardens Bloom

Grandmother’s Garden Garden Tour The 16th Annual Grandmother’s Garden Tour will showcase six private gardens open to the public Saturday, June 14 and Sunday June 15. The public is invited to Honey Pot Road in Southwick Friday, June 13th from 6 - 8 pm for the annual Garden Party and Silent Auction for which tickets must be purchased in advance. Events include Music by Curran & Company and guests will stroll through perennial borders and gentle woodlands enjoying friendship, conversation and gourmet summer refreshment. For more information on tickets for wither of the above mentioned events contact Sandy or Bob Watkins at 569-5562 or Bernadette Toomey at 569-9494

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SOUTHWOODS MAGAZINE June 2014

PAGE 25

Ripples On Congamond Citizens Restoring Congamond News On Wednesday, May 21st Aquatic Control Technologies of Sutton, MA. treated approximately 19 acres of invasive weeds in all three ponds. The usual suspects including Eurasian Watermilfoil and Curly Leaf Pond Weed were located during a survey on May 13th and treated with an approved pesticide by a state approved company. The good news is that the number of treated acres continues to decline every year. See the map at www.congamond.org. Although we will never not have any invasives, if the current yearly treatment plan should certainly keep them under control. The yearly cost of these treatments runs to about $25,000.00 with the total being split three ways between the Town of Southwick, the Town of Suffield and CRC. This is the main reason CRC exists and the main reason all lake residents should belong. We sponsor fund raisers during the year but those do not always raise enough money for us to continue to pay our share. Please consider joining us by attending one of our monthly open meetings at the Cove Banquet Facility across from the north boat ramp held the second Tuesday of the month April – October starting at 7:30pm. You’ll be kept up to date on

lake happenings, meet some like-minded lake locals and help keep Congamond clean. Speaking of a cleaner Congamond; our lake cleanup day this year will be Saturday, June 21st. We gather at the north ramp at 8am. Bring yard tools, chain saws, bug replant and pickup trucks. We will be split into teams and sent out to clean. We are currently looking for spots that need attention. If you know of and area we should consider, please call Steve at 413297-5631. The Town of Suffield waives the dump fees for us that day and we always seem to pull enough trash out of the lake to amaze. Then the fun stuff begins. On the 4th of July weekend we kick off the season with the annual decorated boat parade on Saturday the 5th... Great viewing at Babb’s Park and Louie B’s deck. The boats start to gather at about 5pm and leave at 6:00. If you work it right you can watch them gather at Babb’s then hightail it to Louie B’s to see them as they go by. Then, the next day, Sunday the 6th, we kick off the Nelson W. Babb Memorial Music Series at Babb’s Park with the best in Boogie Woogie, Jump, Jive & Wail; long time favorites “Eight to the Bar”. Bring a blanket and cooler with your choice of refreshments and enjoy an afternoon at the park, 433 Babb’s Road. This year in conjunction with the 2 Left Feet Blues Festival we will present a full slate of bands scheduled over the summer; blues, classic rock, 50’s & 60’s oldies, 60’s British Invasion, & big band swing. One special show will be Suffield’s own, Traci Mnich & Relentless on August 17th made possible by a grant from The Friends Of Suffield. Check out www.BabbsPark.org for the full schedule. Please note... In order to present such top notch entertainment we will be charging $10.00 admission this year. Top notch entertainers like to be paid. See you on the pond!

Strawberry Supper

LANDSCAPE SERVICES AVAILABLE

On Saturday, June 21, 2014, the Second Congregation Church in Westfield will be having their Strawberry Supper. Serving will be at 5:30 pm. Menu will consist of Ham, Turkey, Cole Slaw, Gelatin Salads, Baked Beans, Potato Salad, Rolls and Strawberry Shortcake. Tickets are $11.00 for adults and $5.00 for children under 10. Reservations may be made by calling the church office at 568-7557. The church is loacted at 487 Western Avenue in Westfield.

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Free Opening Day Festivities at Storrowton Village

Storrowton Village Museum celebrates the beginning of its summer season Saturday, June 14 by offering a free day of tours for the whole family from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. The Village will be bustling with activity for Opening Day, including guided tours through the historic buildings and costumed interpreters teaching what life was like during the 19th century. Join in the tradition with early American activities such as cooking over the open hearth in the Gilbert Farmstead, tending the forge in the Blacksmith Shop and learning lessons in the one-room Schoolhouse. Demonstrations on the Village Green include Green Wood Chairmaking by Christopher Nassise of North Easton, Mass. and Early American Broom Making by Broom Squire Bob Aborn of Ellington, Conn. Aunt Helen’s Herb Garden, an oasis of botanical plantings, will feature a costumed interpreter throughout the day to teach visitors herbal folklore and remedies. Picturesque Storrowton Village is made up of 12 authentic antique buildings including a Meetinghouse, Schoolhouse, Blacksmith Shop, the Eddy Law Office, the John Potter Mansion complete with a General Store, and the Gilbert Farmstead, all located on the grounds of Eastern States Exposition, in West Springfield, Mass. A knowledgeable staff of costumed volunteers is on hand to guide visitors through the Village and answer questions.

The Gift Shop, now with a new look and varied product line, continues to offer fine gifts and collectibles. Shop hours are Monday through Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and Saturdays 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Storrowton Open House tours continue all summer long, June 17 through August 22 with guided tours for individuals and groups Tuesday through Saturday, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Admission is $5 for adults and free for children under 6. Members of groups such as the Massachusetts Teachers Association and AAA are eligible to receive an admission discount. For more information about events offered during Storrowton Village’s summer season, call the Village office at 413-205-5051 or visit TheBigE.com.

St. Joseph’s Tag Sale

On Saturday, July 26th, the Outreach group of St. Joseph’s Church in Westfield will be hosting a tag sale from 8 am until 3 pm. The sale will take place rain or shine and will be held behind the church on 73 Main Street. There will be a range of items for all ages. Come and see if a hidden treasure is there for you! Contact Very Rev. Joseph Soltysiak at (413) 562-4403.

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The Forest Park Zoo Comes To Stanley Park

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SOUTHWOODS MAGAZINE June 2014

Forest Park brings its mobile zoo to Stanley Park on June 25. This program will give children the opportunity to get up close and personal with wildlife. They can pet every animal and ask questions about their natural environments and eating habits. Every child, no matter what his or her age, will enjoy this presentation. This program is free of charge and will be held rain or shine in the Westfield Bank Children’s Pavilion “B” from 12:00 pm to 1:00 pm. For further information on the Zoo on the Go program, please go to www.stanleypark.org or call the park office at 413-568-9312.

Whip City Travelers Cruise Enjoy a scenic 2 1/2 hour crusie of Boston Harbor aboard the “Odyssey” on Tuesday, August 1, 2014. Includes motor coach transportation, an elegant served luncheon and musical entretainment during the cruise. Also a stop at Kimbal Farms. $84 per person. FMI contact the Westfield Senior Center at 413-562-6435 Monday 11:30 am - 1:30 pm or Friday 9:00 am - noon. All trips are open to the general public. All ages are welcome.

READY SET GROW continued from page 11

out the use of synthetic materials. Organic growers use naturally occurring chemicals and compounds to deter pests, fungi and weeds and to fertilize the soil in the same way that conventional farmers use conventional pesticides, fungicides, herbicides and fertilizers. If grown under specific circumstances, GMO seeds can bear certifiably organic produce. Many argue it’s an oxymoron to say that something is an “organic GMO food”. If you are one of the multitudes of people who are confused about the difference between non-GMO and organic, take some time to look these things up on the internet and become informed. There are many great resources available with a plethora of information concerning these and other important and pressing issues.

What is ‘local’, and where do I find it?

Farm stands often advertise their products as locally grown. Have you ever asked how local is local? The word ‘local’ means to ME that it is grown somewhere within 20 miles of my own town. This means that the food I consider to be local requires very little fuel to get it to my plate, and it insures that my hard earned money stays invested in my own local economy. To farmers and farm stand owners, us-

ing the word ‘local’ helps sell their products. For SOME farms, the word local is used to describe food from anywhere along the east coast. However misleading it may be, this is smart marketing. So how do we, as consumers, protect ourselves against supporting ‘local’ produce from Pennsylvania, the Carolinas, or even Georgia? Asking questions of knowledgeable staff at a place where you’re considering purchasing produce is the place to start. You may find you receive an ambiguous or incomplete answer, in which case further pointed and polite questions are appropriate. If in asking these tough questions you get unimpressive answers, understand that there are other farms to choose from. Ambiguity is not sufficient for someone who is committed to supporting their local economy by buying produce grown in their own community. In your quest to find the best, remember what grandma always said: “Don’t bite the hand that feeds you.” A responsible and informed consumer understands that the economic challenges facing farmers today make it very difficult to grow an abundance of food in absolutely ideal circumstances. Farmers are subject to so many challenges including economy, customer base projections, weather, government regulations, equipment repair challenges, and more. One must, in good conscience, realize that most farmers are doing the very best they can to provide the very best products they can. Let’s all do our part to vote with our dollars and buy from our neighbors so that we can grow our economy and provide healthier, more sustainable solutions to our dietary needs.

Note: Photo, opposite page, is sign painted by the author for her favorite local farm in Southwick.

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Happy Birthday

June 2014 Dear Friends, I wanted to share several excerpts from recent State House News Articles regarding the gun control legislation proposed by House Speaker Robert DeLeo. GUN BILL DRAWS SUPPORTERS AND OPPONENTS TO STATE HOUSE STATE HOUSE NEWS SERVICE BOSTON, JUNE 3, 2014 …Gov. Deval Patrick’s public safety secretary, Andrea Cabral, sounded notes of By State Representative support for DeLeo’s legislation, calling it a “strong bill” at the rally. “We need to do more Nicholas Boldyga to address the problem of ‘straw purchasers’ — those who buy large supplies of guns within short timeframes intending to traffic them to dealers or sell them in bulk to criminals,” she said in her testimony. “ During the hearing, Cabral tangled with Rep. Nicholas Boldyga, a Southwick Republican. Boldyga pointed to statistics used by Cabral – 450 guns were purchased in Massachusetts and recovered in criminal investigations in 2012 – and asked who purchased them, what crimes were committed with them, and whether they were through straw purchases. Cabral said they likely have some information on whether that’s the case, but the state doesn’t track all gun sales. Boldyga said his understanding was that the state does, prompting applause from gun rights advocates in the room. Naughton admonished them for clapping and asked the audience, “How late do you want to be here?” Boldyga said as the father of two young children, he also wants to stop gun violence. “We should be enforcing current laws on the books,” he told Cabral. DeLEO GUN BILL ADVANCES AFTER CLOSE COMMITTEE VOTE STATE HOUSE NEWS SERVICE BOSTON, JUNE 9, 2014 …House Speaker Robert DeLeo’s new proposal to reduce gun violence has barely emerged with a favorable report from a legislative committee, foreshadowing a potentially turbulent reception in the full House and Senate. The Public Safety Committee’s co-chairs, Sen. James Timilty (DWalpole) and Rep. Harold Naughton (D-Clinton), parted ways, with Timilty voting against the bill and Naughton supporting it. It cleared the committee 7-6. The bill (H 4121) has been on the fast track since DeLeo filed it on May 27. The close vote follows a lengthy committee hearing last Tuesday, when supporters said the bill will curb gun violence and opponents countered that the bill unfairly imposes hardships on legal gun owners, while not focusing enough on illegal gun owners. House lawmakers who signed off on DeLeo’s bill, aside from Naughton, included Reps. Alan Silvia (D-Fall River), Brian Ashe (D-Longmeadow), Michael Brady (D-Brockton), Linda Campbell (DMethuen), and Sean Curran (D-Springfield). They were joined by Sen. Sonia Chang-Diaz (D-Jamaica Plain). House lawmakers who voted against the bill included Reps. Cleon Turner (D-Dennis), David Vieira (R-East Falmouth), and Nicholas Boldyga (R-Southwick). They were joined by Sens. Timilty, Michael Moore (D-Millbury) and James Welch (D-West Springfield). Three lawmakers reserved their rights: Reps. James Dwyer (D-Woburn), Brian Mannal (D-Barnstable) and Sen. Richard Ross (R-Wrentham). A motion to reconsider the bill, made by Rep. Boldyga, failed on a 6-10 vote. The six who voted for reconsideration were Boldyga, Turner, Vieira, Moore, Timilty and Ross. Thank you for allowing me to proudly serve as Your Representative. Please visit my office to discuss any concerns. I’m always available! Sincerely,

Nicholas A. Boldyga, Representative Cooper’s Commons, 159 Main St., Suite M, Agawam, (413) 455-3007 Nicholas A. Boldyga is completing his second term as Representative, serving Agawam, Granville and Southwick. He is the Ranking Member on the Public Safety and Homeland Security Committee. PAGE 30

SOUTHWOODS MAGAZINE June 2014

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GOODS & SERVICES traprock driveways built & repaired. Gravel, loam, fill deliveries. Tractor services, equipment moved, York Rake. Bill Armstrong Trucking. 413357-6407. shaw logging & firewood For all your Firewood needs, cutsplit & delivered or Log Truck Loads & 1/2 Log Truck Loads (4cd +) 413-357-8738 DELREO HOME IMPROVEMENT for all your exterior home improvement needs ROOFING, SIDING, WINDOWS, DOORS, DECKS & GUTTERS extensive references, fully licensed & insured in MA & CT. Call Gary Delcamp 413-569-3733

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SOUTHWOODS MAGAZINE June 2014