AGAWAM | FEEDING HILLS | WEST SPRINGFIELD WWW.THEREMINDER.COM
SEPTEMBER 24, 2026 | FREE
Improvements made at schools during break IN THIS
EDITION AGAWAM
Pies sought for contest at Thomas Smith House The Agawam Historical Association is seeking apple pies for its annual contest.
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WEST SPRINGFIELD
The driveway and parking lot at Phelps School was one of several improvement projects done at Agawam schools during the summer. The Phelps repaving project included adding 20 angled parking spaces on the driveway’s south side.
By Mike Lydick
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PRSRT STD U.S. POSTAGE PAID SPRINGFIELD, MA PERMIT NO. 142
See SCHOOLS on page 2
ECRWSS
ball system. The new hoop architecture features: • Clear tempered glass backboards that provide professional-grade rebound fidelity and modern aesthetic appeal. • Breakaway red rim and netting with a spring-loaded pressure mechanism that can absorb dunk impacts and protect mounting structures. • Height adjustment system with integrated jack screw system to allow rim height customization from 8 to 10 feet. • Protective, high-impact blue wall padding that extends the full width of the wall to prevent collision injuries by students. Phelps also received two major exterior improvements. The
POSTAL CUSTOMER
AGAWAM — Construction of the community wing for the new Agawam High School — scheduled to be completed in December — has been getting a lot of attention lately. However, during the summer break, several other schools in the district received attention with a number of maintenance/improvement projects. At the School Committee’s first meeting of the school year, on Sept. 15, Robert Clickstein, the district’s business administrator reported on the “summer projects.” Clickstein, the district’s point person for operations and maintenance in the school department, works closely with the town building and maintenance director on all updates that
it’s a lot brighter and more homey,” said Clickstein. Upgraded gym equipment — paid for with ASAC money — was installed for students at Granger, Sapelli, Phelps and Doering schools. The wall padding was replaced in the Phelps gym, and padding was added to places that had not been covered. At Sapelli, a traverse climbing wall is now available for use by students. The indoor climbing wall features color-coded holds for varying levels of difficulty. The wall promotes muscular strength and problem-solving. High-density blue safety floor mats and protective wall padding that are compliant with school physical education standards also were installed. Doering, along with Granger, Sapelli and Clark schools, received a new adjustable basket-
PRSRT STD U.S. POSTAGE PAID SPRINGFIELD, MA PERMIT NO. 142
schools need. Clickstein said the summer projects were funded by either the town or the Agawam School Age Childcare — a before and after school program. The town funded the installation of carbon monoxide detectors at all schools and replaced doors and door frames at Granger Elementary School. Town workers also performed maintenance on existing electrical and plumbing equipment and took care of painting needs at all schools. Funding came from the building maintenance fund. The Doering Middle School Media Center received some upgrades with ASAC funds. The rug in the center was replaced with luxury vinyl tile. The room also received new round “collaborative” tables with versatile seating options. “Walking in there now,
Correspondent
West Springfield Town Council President Michael LaFlamme addressed resident concerns about the recent uptick in electric bicycle usage in town.
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Reminder Publishing photo by Mike Lydick
Town Council discusses e-bike safety, usage in town
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AGAWAM PUBLIC LIBRARY
The following events are organized by the Agawam Public Library, located at 750 Cooper St. All events are free and open to the public. Some programs require registration. For more information or to register, head to agawamlibrary. org or call 413-789-1550 ext. 3. Children’s programs:
Schools
Continued from page 1
first was repaving the driveway entrance and parking lot. Work also included the adding 20 angled parking spaces on the driveway’s south side. The second improvement was upgrading the front green with a new gazebo and updated landscape lighting. These projects were funded through the ASAC. The ASAC program is located at Doering, Phelps, Clark, Sapelli and Granger schools, The program emphasizes the process of learning through active play and facilitation. It is geared to meet the educational, social, emotional and physical needs of the children who are enrolled. According to Clickstein, the ASAC program is not part of the district’s budget. “It is considered a revolving fund (revenues and expenses) We spent approximately $225,000 from the before and
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Toddler Time — Monday, Sept. 28, at 9:30 a.m. Ages 19-36 months. Read stories, sing and play together. Polymer Clay Crafting — Wednesday, Sept. 30, at 6 p.m. for grades 5-6. Registration is required. Make figures, jewelry or keychains out of clay. There will be a small toaster oven set up so you can bake your designs and keep them forever. Family Take & Make Crafts: Football-themed Chain — Sept. 28. New crafts available at the start of the week and again on Thursday. ABC Explorers — Mondays in September at 11 a.m. for ages 3-4 years. Registration is required. Each week focuses on a letter of the alphabet through playful, hands-on activities that help children build early literacy skills, letter recognition and
after school fund.” Clickstein also told the committee that there are several school projects in the works for the 2026-27 school year. They include: • Upgrading the lighting system at Sapelli. This will be funded through a Green Communities grant awarded to the town. • Replacing the heating boiler system at Phelps. Work on the system — which will be funded through the ASAC program — is in progress. • Moving two sets of gym bleachers from the current high school to the junior high school in December. As part of the new AHS building project, this work will be covered by the Massachusetts School Boiling Authority. • Transitioning school safety systems — fire alarms, security, elevators and 911 emergency lines — from traditional landlines to cellular communications will be done by the town.
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confidence as they prepare for school. Little Sprouts Playtime — Wednesdays and Fridays starting Sept. 9 at 9:30 a.m. for ages birth to 2 years. Grow, Play & Learn — Wednesdays and Fridays starting Sept. 9 at 10:30 a.m. for ages 2-5 years.
Sanctuary Inc. will have a table for the collection of supplies and donations.
WEST SPRINGFIELD WEST SPRINGFIELD PUBLIC LIBRARY
Community Grange #382 of Feeding Hills located at 47 North West St. will hold a multi-family indoor Fall Tag and Bake Sale on Saturday, Oct. 3, from 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. The tag sale will include furniture, household items, crafts, lots of fleece fabric priced at $1.50 per yard, cotton fabric, etc. and the bake sale will include seasonal items. Proceeds will benefit the building fund. Feline Friends Cat
The following events are organized by the West Springfield Public Library, located at 200 Park St. For more information or to register for programs, visit wspl.org or call 413-736-4561, ext. 4. Youth Room programs: • Tween Time — Friday, Oct. 2, from 3:30-4:30 p.m. for ages 9-12. Kick off your weekend by hanging with your friends at the library. • Sensory Storytime — Saturday, Oct. 3, from 10-11 a.m. The Sensory Storytime is ideal for any child who may benefit from a modified storytime ex-
• Evaluating possible replacement of approximately 8,000 square feet of aging epoxy floor-
ing at the junior high school. • Replacing roofs at the four elementary schools under a MSBA
COMMUNITY GRANGE #382 TAG AND BAKE SALE
perience (especially those on the autism spectrum, who have sensory processing difficulties, or struggle in large groups). Includes softer lighting, reduced noise, additional visual aids and sensory objects. After the storytime, families are welcome to stay for playtime at different sensory stations. This program is designed for children ages 3-10 who are functioning at a preschool to early elementary developmental level. Registration is limited to six. Adult/teen programs: • Stitch Club for Adults and Teens — Monday, Sept. 28 at 6 p.m. Come knit, crochet, hand sew or embroider at the library. Light instruction, some tools and supplies provided and all experience levels are welcome! No registration, just drop in and enjoy.
program with the potential to add solar panels.
PUMPING IRON — Nicole Feliciano and Oscar Arzola were joined by Agawam Mayor Christopher Johnson and members of the City Council on Sept. 17 to officially open their new gym, No Fear Fitness, at 159 Main St. State Sen. John Velis and state Rep. Carlos Gonzalez presented the owners with citations from the Massachusetts Senate and House of Representatives, respectively. No Fear Fitness offers cardio, weight training and custom-built workouts. City Council President Anthony Russo and Councilor Peter McNair took the opportunity to lift some weights. Reminder Publishing photos by Sarah Heinonen
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State announces funding for high school financial education fairs BOSTON — The Massachusetts Treasurer’s Office of Economic Empowerment, in partnership with the Massachusetts Division of Banks and the Office of Consumer Affairs and Business Regulation, announced funding for the 2027 Financial Education Innovation Fund Grant. Created in 2015, the Financial Education Innovation Fund gives students the opportunity to practice making many of the real-world financial decisions they’ll face after graduation. Financial education fairs, such as Credit for Life fairs, offer a fun and unique opportunity for students to learn about personal finance. These fairs often serve as a supplement or capstone to financial education classes and engage students in real-world saving, spending and budgeting scenarios. Students choose or are assigned an occupation and make a variety of money decisions, ranging from where to live and how to save for retirement to buying a television or owning a pet. Massachusetts public or charter high schools and special education programs approved by the
Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education are eligible to apply. Applicants looking to start a new program can receive up to $4,000, and those enhancing or expanding an existing fair can receive up to $2,000. Schools designated as Special Education or Collaborative programs, and those with over 50% of the student population designated by DESE as low-to-moderate income, can apply for an additional $500 in funding. Find out if your school meets the criteria for additional funding on DESE’s School and District Profile search. Applications are open until Oct. 23, at 5 p.m. Schools can learn more and apply by visiting mass.gov/oee/fin-ed-fairs. The Financial Education Innovation Fund was established as an ongoing effort to strengthen access to financial literacy throughout Massachusetts and is funded by the Division of Banks through the Settlement Trust. Since 2015, over 92,000 students have attended financial education fairs supported by the fund.
CATHEDRAL HIGH SCHOOL CLASS OF 1966 TO CELEBRATE 60-YEAR REUNION LONGMEADOW — Cathedral High School’s Class of 1966 as we celebrate its 60th anniversary reunion on Saturday, Oct. 24, from 6-10 p.m. at Twin Hills Country Club, 700 Wolf Swamp Road. For more information, to provide updated contact information, or to assist with the planning committee, please reach out via email to cathedral1966@gmail.com.
CORRECTION In the Sept. 17 story titled “Northampton Jazz Festival returns for 15th year,” it was incorrectly stated that the photos taken were from Northampton Jazz Festival. They were actually taken by Elizabeth Leitzell. Reminder Publishing regrets the error.
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Pies sought for contest at Thomas Smith House AGAWAM — Pie season is underway, and the Agawam Historical Association is seeking the apple variety for its annual contest, to be held as part of Old Home Day at the historic Thomas Smith House, 251 North West St., Feeding Hills, on Saturday, Oct. 10. The contest is open to the public and all bakers are encouraged to enter. Whether you prefer Cortland, Macoun, or a secret mix of varieties, the association’s judges will have the final say. If you don’t have a secret family recipe, perhaps you could follow Janine Fisk’s “Blue Ribbon Apple Pie” recipe (First Place, 2018 Topsfield Fair) featured in the September/October 2026 issue of Yankee magazine and see how it fares in these parts. This year’s judges are Agawam Historical Association Board Member Emeritus Don Anderson; Agawam Mayor Christopher Johnson; and 2025 AHA Apple Pie Contest First Place Winner Liz Johnson, who will judge entries on flavor, filling, crust and overall appearance, and creativity. In addition to bragging rights, the first place winner will receive a blue ribbon, an apron hand-sewn by AHA board member Charlotte Fields and a place at next year’s apple pie contest judges’ table. Participating bakers do need to adhere to some requirements: pies only (no tarts or crisps); must be full top and bottom, double (rolled) crust; fresh apples only — no store-bought fillings or crusts; 9-inch or 10-inch disposable pie plates must be used; pie must be at room temperature at time of judging; and no identi-
The late Agawam Historical Association president Marilyn Curry is seen here in 2011 serving judges during the organization’s annual apple pie contest. The 2026 edition will take place at the historic Thomas Smith House, 251 North West St., Feeding Hills, on Oct. 10. All amateur bakers are encouraged to enter. Reminder Publishing submitted photo
fication is allowed on pie tin. The decision of the judges’s is final, and pies will not be returned. Participants must register on
or before Wednesday, Oct. 7, by texting 413-297-4967 or emailing 1855@agawamhistory.org. Pies must be dropped off by
12:30 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 10 at: Thomas Smith House, 251 North West St., Feeding Hills. Judging will begin at 1:30 p.m.
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TheReminder.com Every week we will provide you with a complete listings of deaths from the preceding week from throughout Greater Springfield. We are doing this as a convenience to our readers in case you miss an obit in the daily paper. We hope you find this useful and that you will refer to it weekly. AGAWAM William F. Borecki Sandra J. Moore FEEDING HILLS Judith A. Beauregard
Alfred L. Bouchard Doris E. Mozdzanowski WEST SPRINGFIELD Eva C. Fiorini Errol L. Holloway
Charles H. Narault Jr. Robert R. Simpson Robert S. Topjian
WESTFIELD Brian R. Lapointe Nancy T. Menard Patricia Richardson
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Town Council discusses e-bike safety, usage in town By Peter Tuohy
Street residents. “I just want to give an update because it may look like we’re not doing anything because we haven’t passed anything with regulations,” LaFlamme said. “Right now, it’s being discussed and negotiated at the state level between the House and the Senate, and some legislation that would create different tiers and what not for e-bikes and their speeds and how they have to be registered. It’s very difficult for the town to do something when it’s in a gray area at the state level.” He said it’s surprising how quickly and often people started using e-bikes, and people think it’s mostly kids riding them, but he’s seen just as many adults. “Many use it for their main form of transportation,” LaFlamme said. “The state is working on something. [Gov. Maura Healey] filed a piece of legislation that got sent to a study … I’m hoping we can get some sort of a resolution on that and some guidance for us down here at the local level. It’s tough for the town to do something. As everyone knows, state law supersedes local law.” He said people have asked if the town can make registration or a license plate required, which
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WEST SPRINGFIELD — West Springfield Town Council President Michael LaFlamme addressed resident concerns about the recent uptick in electric bicycle usage in town, providing an update on a drafted town ordinance and his stance on the transportation method at the Town Council’s Sept. 14 meeting. E-bikes are battery charged, equipped with an electric motor and can be used on roadways and bike paths. They are not allowed on sidewalks, and riders must obey all traffic laws. The bikes recently gained viral attention online after 14-yearold Owen Harris died on Sept. 12 after biking through a red light and colliding with a Tesla in San Diego, California. Every bike is designed with a pedal assist function, which kicks in the motor to give the bike a boost when rotating the pedals. E-bikes with throttles allow pedal-less biking. State law recognizes e-bikes in two main classes. Class 1 includes pedal assist that stops above 20 mph and class 2 includes throttle assist that cuts out at 20 mph. Unlike other states, Massachusetts law recognizes class 3 e-bikes as motorized bicycles. Class 3 e-bikes can exceed 20 mph and have pedal assist up to 28 mph. Motorized bicycles carry specific licensing, registration and helmet requirements, while class 1 and 2 e-bikes do not require licensing, registration or a legal minimum age to operate in Massachusetts. LaFlamme said e-bike concerns started materializing around spring and continued throughout the summer. He said he’s heard about it “becoming a problem” frequently from Ashley
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it cannot. The state registrar has the authority. “The state is going to have to set guidance on that,” LaFlamme said. “I hope they do. Some of these e-bikes are designed to go fast and be more of a transportation vehicle, and those should have a license plate. You should have to register them like you do a car or a motorcycle, and that’s just my opinion. But we, as a town, can’t force people who ride those to do that.” Councilor Frederick Connor has been working on an ordinance with the town attorney, which LaFlamme said has a “pretty good draft, but we decided we should wait and see what the state does before we move forward.” “We could just pass something, but it would most likely be toothless and unenforceable, so we might as well wait and do it right,” LaFlamme said. “It’s definitely something that is a problem. We’ve talked to the police about it. Police have confiscated bikes. They are getting into the schools to try to teach kids and educate them on the importance of riding them safely so nobody gets hurt. It’s a difficult situation for police. They don’t want to chase a kid,
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and then the kid zooms off and crashes into a tree and gets seriously injured, and now it looks like it’s the police’s fault, right … It’s a delicate situation but we are weighing options.” Councilor Diana Coyne said e-bikes are a time bomb, and it’s not a question of it, but a question of when “somebody gets killed with either an interaction with an e-bike, a kid going off-road or an adult going off-road.” She added bikers are going off-road onto town property and schools, which is costing the
town taxpayer dollars. “If something’s going off and perhaps onto the high school fields, we’re paying for that,” Coyne said. “So it’s maybe a plea to everyone to perhaps talk to your family members that have these things, perhaps take a little care. I’ve certainly seen people riding them without even helmets. It’s really just a very difficult situation.” LaFlamme said everyone understands it is a serious issue, and the Town Council should have more updates soon.
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Twisted Sister 50th anniversary tour comes to Big E Oct. 2 By Debbie Gardner
dgardner@thereminder.com
WEST SPRINGFIELD — If you wanna rock this fall, the Big E has the show for you. Legendary ‘80s heavy metal band Twisted Sister is slated to take the Big E Arena stage at 7:30 p.m. on Oct. 2 for the only Northeast stop on their 50th Anniversary Tour. And it’s a tour with its own twist, as Skid Row frontman Sebastian Bach will be replacing the band’s longtime lead singer Dee Snider. Snider had to pull out of the tour shortly after the tour dates
were originally announced due to health issues. “It was doing it, then not doing it, then doing it, to contacting Sebastian,” founding guitarist and Twisted Sister manager Jay Jay French told Reminder Publishing of the convoluted road that brought the band back together for this anniversary tour. Ironically, it was Snider, French added, who had convinced him and fellow founding member Eddie Ojeda to originally commit to the tour. The last time the band performed together was a one-off at their induction into the Heavy
Metal Hall of Fame in 2023. French said Twisted Sister fans should still expect a show worthy of their legend. “We replaced Dee with a bona fide superstar,” French said, adding that Twisted Sister isn’t the only iconic band that’s seen changes to their talent lineup and still gone on to produce great shows. Freddie Mercury, frontman for Queen, was replaced by an American Idol contestant, Adam Lambert. Sammy Hagar replaced Arrowsmith’s David Lee Roth. When fans want the music, bands find a way to keep providing the magic, French said.
“And Sebastian is a big fan of Twisted Sister,” French shared. French said Twisted Sister is ready to give fans a night to remember when they take the stage at the Big E. The audience can expect to hear their legendary rock anthems “I Wanna Rock” and “We’re Not Gonna Take It” as well as deep cuts like “Under the Blade” and “Burn in Hell.” The current setlist includes two of French’s admitted favorites from the band’s early albums, “We’re Gonna Make It” and “You Can’t Stop Rock ‘n Roll.” Bach is expected to add at least two Skid Row covers, “I Remember You”
and “Youth Gone Wild,” to the setlist mix. “If they’ve seen us before, they know what to expect,” French said of the upcoming Big E show. “If they haven’t seen us, they will see a performance that equals or exceeds the legend that Twisted Sister has created.” Twisted Sister will share the stage that night with fellow 1980s rock band Tesla. Advance tickets are required, and the concert is expected to be a sellout. To get tickets to Twisted Sister at the Big E Arena, which includes admission to the fair, visit tinyurl.com/TSist.
Provisions Picks: Chenin Blanc, crown jewel of Loire Valley By Provisions
Special to Reminder Publishing
So far this summer, we’ve shined the spotlight on two grape varieties indigenous to France’s Loire Valley: Cabernet Franc and Sauvignon Blanc. It makes sense, we thought, to round the summer out by highlighting another Loire gem, perhaps the crown jewel. We’re by no means doing the region the justice it deserves — this is, after all, one of the most diverse, vibrant, and innovative wine producing regions anywhere in the world — but we’ll consider our job well-done if we can bring more attention to these still-underappreciated wines. To keep things simple, we’ve looked at the Loire through the lens of grape variety, though variables like producer, “terroir,” appellation and sub-appelation, farming practice, winemaking methodology, winemaking philosophy — whew — are all important in shaping our experiences as wine enjoyers, whether we know it or not.
Now, we turn to Chenin Blanc! Sauvignon Blanc gets all the glory, but Chenin has just as much claim, if not more, to being the Loire Valley’s flagship white variety, if not by quantity produced, then by quality. It’s found a second home in South Africa, where climate and vintner steer it towards riper, more full-bodied, concentrated, textured expressions. These are wines of power, of intensity and, often, of great quality. In its birthplace, along the Loire River, we see something different: racy acidity, freshness, clarity, minerality. The cooler climate, the soil composition, anchored by a crumbly porous limestone known locally as tuffeau, and the winegrowing-winemaking practices yield wines of comparative subtlety, wines of tension, emphasizing Chenin’s stony, smokey, floral, beeswax-y aromatics as much as its fruit-character. That said, Loire Valley Chenin is by no means one single thing. You’ll find something different in Saumur than in Vouvray, a mere 25 miles further
FOOD & SPIRITS
inland, where the temperature swings are sharper, the humidity more persistent, the vineyards more exposed to westerly winds. Even within a tiny growing area like Vouvray, you’ll taste differences, representative of minute differences in place, people, and process. It’s this that makes the Loire Valley such an exciting region. • Chai de la Dive “Les Moulins” Saumur Blanc ($24.99): Chai de la Dive is the second label of the renowned Guiberteau winery offering more affordable wines sourced from their practicing organic neighbors in Saumur rather than the Guiberteau estate vineyards. We highlighted their Cabernet Franc. But it was Chenin Blanc, not Cabernet Franc, that first brought Guiberteau international acclaim, and you can taste why even in their negociant offering. Assertive, expressive, and intensely mineral, showing notes of pear, anisette, honeysuckle and lemon curd.
• Domaine Pichot Vouvray ($21.99) Many people associate Vouvray with “sparkling” or “sweet,” and rightfully so. Sparkling Vouvray is an excellent, relatively affordable champagne alternative, and some of the world’s most compelling sweet wine hails from this small appellation. Just as deserving of your attention, however, are the appellation’s still whites, made from Chenin Blanc, fermented completely dry. Pichot’s family has been involved in Loire Valley winemaking since the mid-18th century. The Domaine exclusively farms and vinifies Chenin Blanc, all grown within the Vouvray AOC and cellared in caves carved out beneath the river-adjacent hills. This, their entry-level offering, is a riper Vouvray, still faithful to the style: round, almost glassy in texture, but not at all heavy, offering notes of ripe flowers, pear, quince, apple skin and wild-
flower honey. • Breton “La Dilettante” Vouvray Sec ($35.99) Pierre and Catherine Breton, husband and wife, are natural winemakers through and through. Famous for their Cabernet Franc, they also work with small quantities of Chenin Blanc — and with great results. “La Dilletant” is Catherine’s project, focusing solely on oldvine Chenin Blanc grown in Vouvray. Any cuvee bearing the nickname has seen her hand in its making. This Vouvray Sec (dry) is keenly flinty, a lean, mean, steely wine from front to back. But don’t be fooled, there’s fruit here, pure and ripe, but held in tension, almost taught, stretched over a frame of bracing minerality. The Pichot Vouvray is like a warm ray of sunshine on a crisp September day. This wine is like jumping into the ocean. It’s amazing how different two wines can be, made from grapes grown just a few miles apart.
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ALL THAT’S
2026
FALL
Prepare your landscape for the change of seasons By Melinda Myers
A
DON’T STOP SPRINKLING YET
Gardening author and TV/radio host Special to Reminder Publishing
s summer comes to an end, it’s time to prepare landscapes for fall and winter. Proper fall care helps increase plants’ winter survival, supports pollinators, and promotes the overall health, longevity, and beauty of a landscape. Here’s a list of tips to get your lawn and garden ready for the change of seasons.
Continue watering as needed. This is especially important for new plantings, evergreens and moisture-loving plants; but don’t overlook established trees. Drought stress makes plants, even established ones, more susceptible to life threatening insects and disease.
KEEP UP THE GARDEN CHORES
Remove weeds in gardens and mixed borders. Cooler temperatures and a shorter to-do list make See LANDSCAPE on page 2
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LANDSCAPE Continued from page 1
it easier to squeeze in more time for this task. Eliminating weeds now means fewer weeds to pull next year.
GIVE IT ONE LAST CUT
Don’t pack away the mower just yet. Keep cutting the lawn as long as it keeps growing. Mow over fall leaves and leave them and grass clippings on the lawn. The short clippings and quarter-size leaf pieces add nutrients and organic matter to the soil. Just make a second pass with the mower, if needed, to cut the leaves down in size.
USE THOSE LEAVES
Put some of the fall leaves to work in gardens as a mulch. They insulate plant roots from temperature extremes, help suppress weeds, conserve moisture, and improve the soil as they decompose. Leaves also provide insulation and winter protection for a variety of beneficial insects, toads and frogs
.DON’T WASTE GARDEN TRIMMINGS
Start a compost pile by mixing fall leaves with other landscape trimmings. Don’t add invasive plants, aggressive weeds or those gone to seed. Leave insect and disease infested or chemically treated plant debris out of the pile. Don’t add fat, meat and other animal products that can attract rodents. Moisten and occasionally turn the pile to speed up the process. Soon it will be a wonderful soil conditioner to put back into the landscape.
RESIST THE URGE TO CUT
Leave healthy perennials stand for winter. Many provide motion, form and texture to the winter garden. This subtle winter beauty may not be as colorful as your summer garden, but it adds interest to what may be an otherwise drab winter landscape.
The standing perennials also support songbirds and beneficial insects. Seed heads of many perennials attract seed-eating songbirds, adding color and motion throughout the winter. They also provide winter homes and shelter for beneficial insects that pollinate plants, help manage insect pests and more.
GET RID OF THE BAD STUFF
Remove diseased plant debris and those infested with plant-damaging insects. Removing these from the garden reduces the source of future infestations which means healthier plants with less pest management required. Local municipalities can provide guidance on disposing of pest infested plant debris.
LET THE FROST GUIDE YOU
Wait for several hard frosts when cutting perennials back in the fall. This allows the plant to maximize energy produced and store it in the roots for healthy growth next spring. Make the cut two to three inches above the ground to avoid damaging the crown of the plant.
FENCE WHERE NEEDED
Protect plants and gardens susceptible to animal damage. A cylinder of hardware cloth at least four feet high sunk sever-
C&C
Melinda Myers has written more than 20 gardening books, including the Midwest Gardener’s Handbook, 2nd Edition and Small Space Gardening. She hosts The Great Courses “How to Grow Anything” streaming courses and the nationally syndicated Melinda’s Garden Moment TV & radio program. Myers is a columnist and contributing editor for Birds & Blooms magazine. Her website is www.MelindaMyers.com.
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al inches into the ground can reduce the risk of rabbit, deer and vole damage. A fivefeet-tall fence around small gardens, 8 feet by 13 feet or smaller, with a secure gate can reduce the risk of most critter damage. If fencing isn’t a practical option, consider using repellent. Applying repellent before animals begin feeding provides the greatest success. Look for rain- and snow-resistant repellent, allowing gardeners to reapply less often. Once fall landscape chores are complete, take time to clean, repair, sharpen and store tools for the winter and winterize the lawn mower. Move granular landscape care products to a dry place and liquids to a frost-free location. Store them in a secure location away from pets and children. Take advantage of the often-cooler fall days to prepare gardens for winter. Time spent now can help reduce winter damage and save time as the next garden season begins.
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An apple crisp everyone can enjoy
As soon as the calendar turns to fall, it seem, everything is awash in orange, including food. Pumpkin products are ubiquitous this time of year, and everything from muffins to cookies to coffees are given pumpkin-infused spins. Although it may seem like there is no room on the menu for anything other than pumpkin right now, fans of another fall favorite can rest assured that apples will never fall out of favor on the dessert table. Apples come into season early in September but remain tasty staples all the way through the holiday
entertaining season in December. That leaves plenty of opportunities to offer apple-based desserts. Crisps are desserts that have streusel-like toppings, and are close cousins to cobblers, which feature more of a biscuit topping. The crunch of the streusel on this “Apple Crisp” from “Danielle Walker’s Eat What You Love” (Ten Speed Press) is addictive. It replaces a traditional oats or flour-sugar mixture crisp into something those who are gluten-free can enjoy.
GLUTENFREE APPLE CRISP
Serves 8 to 10
Ingredients: 3/4 cup cashew flour 1/4 cup coconut flour 3 tablespoons arrowroot flour 14 cup maple sugar 1/4 cup coconut sugar 1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt 1/2cup chilled ghee, or palm shortening 1/2 cup shredded unsweetened coconut 3 pounds baking apples Finely grated zest of 1 orange Finely grated zest of 1 lemon 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice 1/4 cup pure maple syrup 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg 1/4teaspoon ground allspice Whipped cream (dairy or nondairy), optional Method: Preheat the oven to 350 F. In a large mixing bowl, mix together the cashew flour, coconut flour, arrowroot, maple sugar, coconut sugar, and salt. Mix the ghee into the flour mixture using a pastry blender or two knives,
until the mixture has the texture of coarse sand. Add the shredded coconut, and use your hands to toss and squeeze the mixture until large, moist clumps form. Place the bowl in the freezer to chill while you prepare the filling. Peel and core the apples, then cut them into large wedges. In a 2-quart baking dish, combine the apples with the orange zest,
Delicious soup perfect for the season
Cooler weather arrives just as prime entertaining season heats up. Those who will be hosting gatherings soon can expand their recipe repertoire to feed guests and keep them satisfied. Borrowing some flavors from the season can make entertaining festive and even more flavorful. Pumpkins and winter squashes are popular in fall, and their versatility undoubtedly contributes to that popularity. However, when chilly days require something to warm you up from the inside out, nothing can beat a soothing soup. And soup recipes can be altered to easily feed a crowd. Cooks can step out of their chicken soup comfort zones and try this recipe for “Roasted Pumpkin Soup With Pumpkin Crisps” from “The Complete Mexican, South American & Caribbean Cookbook” (Metro Books) by Jane Milton, Jenni Fleetwood and Marina Filippeli.
lemon zest, lemon juice, maple syrup, cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice. Remove the topping from the freezer and scatter it over the apples. Place the baking dish on a baking sheet and bake for 1 hour, until the top is brown and the sauce is bubbling. Serve warm with whipped cream on top. Article courtesy of Metro Creative Graphics
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Serves 6 to 8
ROASTED PUMPKIN SOUP WITH PUMPKIN CRISPS
Ingredients: 3 to 3 1/2 pounds pumpkin 6 tablespoons olive oil 2 onions, chopped 3 garlic cloves, chopped 1 3-inch piece of fresh ginger root, grated 1 teaspoon ground coriander 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric Pinch of cayenne pepper 4 cups vegetable stock Salt and ground black pepper 1 tablespoon sesame seeds Fresh cilantro leaves, to garnish
For the pumpkin crisps Wedge of fresh pumpkin, seeded 1/2 cup olive oil
Method: Preheat the oven to 400 F. Prick the pumpkin around the top several times with a fork. Brush the pumpkin with plenty of the oil and bake for 45 minutes or until tender. Leave until cool enough to handle. Take care when cutting the pumpkin, as there may still be a lot of hot steam inside. When cool enough to handle, scoop out and discard the seeds. Scoop out and chop the flesh. Heat about 4 tablespoons of the remaining oil (you may not have to use all of it) in a large pan and add the onions, garlic and ginger, then cook gently for 4 to 5 minutes. Add the coriander, turmeric, and cayenne, and cook for 2 minutes. Stir in the pumpkin flesh and stock. Bring to a boil, reduce the heat, and simmer for about 20 minutes until tender. Cool the soup slightly, then puree it in a food processor or blender until smooth. Return the soup to the rinsed out pan and season well. Meanwhile, prepare the pumpkin crisps. Using a swivel-blade potato peeler, pare long thin strips off the wedge of pumpkin. Heat the oil in a small pan and fry the strips in batches for 2 to 3 minutes, until crisp. Drain on paper towels. Reheat the soup and ladle it into bowls. Top with the pumpkin crisps and garnish each portion with sesame seeds and cilantro leaves. Article courtesy of Metro Creative Graphics
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ALL THAT’S FALL 2026
ALL THAT’S FALL 2026
THEREMINDER.COM
|6|
Too much Halloween haul? How to repurpose that extra candy
W
hat can be better than spending a day with friends, decked out in costume as you accumulate a mountain of sweet treats? That’s what trick-or-treaters do every Halloween, and sometimes the cache of candy is more than a person can consume in a lifetime. When October rolls into November and Thanksgiving is on the horizon, few people want to be staring at a witch’s cauldron full of chocolate bars. Rather than be wasteful and throw it away, they can utilize that candy in many different ways.
S’MORES COOKIE
Turn miniature chocolate bars into a campfire treat with a cookie twist. Press premade cookie dough into a round cast iron skillet and bake until cooked throughout. Add chopped up pieces of chocolate and marshmallows on top, and place under the broiler a few minutes until melted and gooey. Slice up to serve or dig in with spoons.
CONFECTIONARY PIZZA
Purchase premade pizza dough or make your own. Bake the dough on a pan with no toppings. Afterwards, spread a layer of peanut butter or hazelnut spread on top. Then set up a fixings bar with various candies that others can add to their pizza slices. Options include chocolate candies, miniature pretzels, marshmallows, or gummy candies.
STAINED GLASS COOKIES
Turn hard candies (like Jolly Ranchers¨) into works of art. Fill sugar cookie cutouts with hard candies in the middle. When the cookies bake, the candies will melt and then turn soft after cooling.
Candy-topped brownies
V
isiting a local apple orchard and picking one’s fill of apples is a quintessential fall activity. Apple picking is an ideal way to spend time outdoors when the
Brownies are delicious on their own, but they’re even better with some embellishments. Mix chopped caramels into the batter, or add other candies for flavor and fun.
CANDY BARK
to first responders, veterans and others. It’s fun to gather treats on Halloween. But when the collected candy is simply too much to eat, there are various ways to put it to good use. Article courtesy of Metro Creative Graphics
Melt down any chocolate you may have and spread it on a baking sheet. Sprinkle chopped up leftover candy on top and allow to cool. Break into pieces for a homemade chocolate bark.
GINGERBREAD HOUSE
Save the candy in a zip-top bag for freshness and reserve for decorating gingerbread houses around the holidays.
BIRTHDAY PI–ATA
If there is a birthday on the horizon, use the Halloween candy to stuff the pi–ata.
PARADE ROUTE
Veteran’s Day parades are held each November. Start a new tradition in town where donated candy will be tossed out to the crowd by those marching in the parade.
DONATE
Various organizations will gather and ship leftover candy to troops stationed overseas or donate the goods
Apple picking pointers
weather tends to be cool and pleasant. Gathering fresh-from-the-tree fruit to turn into favorite fall desserts like cobblers and pies is irresistible. According to the Economic Research Service, Washington state is the leading apple producer in the United States. It is followed very distantly by New York and Michigan. Apples were first cultivated in Canada by early French settlers, with the first trees planted in Nova Scotia’s Annapolis Valley around 1633. Today, New Brunswick, Quebec, Ontario, and British Columbia have become strong players in the apple business. While other areas may not be apple meccas, those look-
ing to pick their own have plenty of options across North American to enjoy this pastime. Prior to an apple picking adventure, people can do a little preparation to ensure the afternoon is fun and fruitful.
DO SOME RESEARCH
Before individuals head out, they should do research into the available orchards and which apple varieties they specialize in. Ripening seasons vary, so certain varieties may not be available at all times. Call ahead to learn which apples are ripe and when.
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trees have been heavily picked over. It’s also a good idea to visit the orchard early in the day, which means cooler temperatures and smaller crowds.
DRESS APPROPRIATELY
Orchards can be dusty, muddy and buggy. The ground also may be uneven. Individuals can wear comfortable clothes and closedtoed shoes that can get dirty. Also, they should dress in layers, as it can be chilly early in the day and then warmer later on.
PICK CORRECTLY
Instead of yanking on the apples, which can damage the tree and apples, people should gently roll or twist the apple upwards from the
branch. If the apple is ripe it will detach easily with stem intact.
AVOID BRUISING
It’s wise to inspect the apples to make sure they are firm and brightly colored. Those with bruising or insect damage should be left behind.
DON’T OVERLOAD
Only pick what you need. Apples are delicate, and overloading the apples into bags can crush or bruise the ones on the bottom. Plus, over-picking means that the apples may spoil before they can be eaten. After a day at the orchard, apples can be stored unwashed in a cool, dark place, which will help them stay fresher, longer. Article courtesy of Metro Creative Graphics
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ALL THAT’S FALL 2026
|7|
Sights to see at fall harvest festivals
J
ust as summertime is synonymous with concerts and carnivals, fall is a prime time for its own opportunities for seasonal entertainment, such as harvest festivals. Certain features overlap between summer carnivals and fall festivals, but the latter offers some unique offerings as well. The following are some things to expect when fall festival season hits full swing.
SEASONAL FARE
Many fall harvest festivals are built on the foods harvested in the fall for that region. In Wisconsin, that may be cranberries, while in Massachusetts it could be oysters. Apples also turn up in many areas starting in September. For those who canÕt wait to bite into food picked at the peak of its season, a fall harvest festival canÕt be beat.
WAGON RIDES
Farms and the tools of the farming trade are part of harvest festivals. Wagons transporting crops are a classic sight, even if theyÕre no longer heavily relied upon on the farm. Rather than a cargo bed full of corn or apples, harvest festivals tote families
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around on wagon rides or on hay bale beds towed by tractors.
APPLES GALORE
Some festivals are geared around chances to view the fall foliage that abounds in primarily rural areas. A mountain or forest backdrop adds vibrant color to any event. Coastal areas may set up fall foliage cruises that let guests see the leaves from a new perspective.
CIDER STATIONS
Fall festivals set up adjacent to or on farms may have corn mazes for the kids. These mazes may be kept up throughout October and repurposed into haunted mazes for older kids looking to get a scare for Halloween.
Candied and caramel apples and many other apple products feature prominently at many harvest festivals. Apple fritters, apple turnovers, apple pies, fried apples, and others are bound to be sold by vendors, along with traditional fair foods, like funnel cakes. Lemonade stands that are staples of summer give way to hot or cold cider offerings come the fall. Cold ciders are perfect for an unseasonably warm fall day while warm varieties are tailor-made for days when thereÕs a chill in the air.
PUMPKIN PATCHES
Fall harvest organizers pick and display pumpkins in fields to make it easier for youngsters to find the perfect pumpkin for Halloween carvings. ItÕs a sea of orange this time of year, and things may get more colorful with non-edible gourds in shades of white or yellow.
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LEAF-PEEPING OPPORTUNITIES
CORN MAZES
WINE TASTINGS
Many grape varieties are harvested in the fall, so fall harvest festivals may capitalize on that and invite local vineyards to set up tables providing tastings of their vintages. Vineyards also may host their own fall festivals, featuring sips and snacks with live music. Fall offers a host of entertaining festivals geared around the harvest season. These festivals are ideal ways for people to see the sights and nibble on seasonal delights along the way. Article courtesy of Metro Creative Graphics
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Always a good scare at McCray’s
I
By Debbie Gardner
dgardner@thereminder.com
t’s as much a tradition on McCray’s Farm as fall pumpkin hayrides, ice cream from the creamery and the free petting zoo. As soon as the calendar flips to October, it’s time for Fear on the Farm. Brainchild of Holyoke native and avowed Halloween aficionado Dan Augusto, Fear on the Farm is the longest continuously operating haunted hayride attraction in the state. Even COVID-19 didn’t stop the scares. “We were the only attraction allowed to be open during the shutdown,” Augusto shared. This fall marks the 36th season for the annual Halloween scare fest that Augusto first created in 1991 on a small area of the farm that owner Don McCray let him use. “I did a Google search just for the heck of it because I started the same year as Spooky World did. They opened a week before us,” Augusto shared. “So, I just searched ‘What’s the longest running haunted hayride attraction in Massachusetts,’ and we’re it now.” Like Fear on the Farm, Spooky World was born on a farm, this time in Berlin, Massachusetts. Billed as America’s first major horror-themed scream park, it closed in 1998, then went through subsequent iterations at different Massachusetts locations before relocating to Litchfield, New Hampshire, in 2009. But while Spooky World had a famous producer and special effects artist as founders, a n d boasted celebrity guests, Fear on the Farm was a grassroots operation from the beginning and has always been a showcase for local talent and fellow Halloween-lovers.
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Fear on the Farm General Manager Briget Reilly said from the beginning, the original haunted hayride concept, dubbed Monster Mash, was a hit. “Within the first two weekends, there wasn’t enough parking space to park all the cars,” Reilly said. And the popularity never waned. At the 10-year mark, Augusto said Fear on the Farm added a haunted corn maze to the annual haunted hayride. At the 11-year mark, the crew created a small haunt in a 40-footlong car port. The car port eventually grew into what is now Massacre Manor. A string of damp fall seasons forced Fear on the Farm to eventually abandon the haunted corn maze. “There was just too much mud,” Augusto said. Massacre Mansion took on more prominence and was expanded as the seasons continued. When original farm owner Don McCray passed away before the 22nd season, Augusto and his crew created the D.O.N., or Diagnostic Operations Nexus, haunted walk-throughs, using his initials for the attraction as a homage to his years of support, bringing the scare areas to a total of four themes.
ALWAYS UPPING THE SCARE FACTOR
From the humble beginnings of backyard-built scare scenes and costumes from Augusto’s own collection to today’s crew of carpenters and costumed actors, Fear on the Farm has always strived to provide guests with the best in Halloween entertainment. That means taking a fresh look at the attraction areas — the 20-minute haunted haySee MCCRAY’S on page 9
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ALL THAT’S FALL 2026
|9|
MCCRAY’S Continued from page 8
ride and the haunted walk-throughs — every season. “Each year we try to change each of the haunts and add on to different areas,” Augusto said. For example, they’ve slowly repurposed areas in Massacre Mansion that were out of public view to expand the attraction. “We currently have the whole front of the haunt, the front quarter of the mansion, torn off, and we’re rebuilding and retheming that,” Augusto said. He said the crew is also changing up the entire first section of the hayride for 2026. Reilly said Fear on the Farm is employing social media to showcase the changes they’re making for the upcoming season. “What you hear during the season is, ‘Oh well, they didn’t change this. They didn’t change much in the haunt, they didn’t change much on the trail,’ and that gets frustrating for the build crew because they are here every Saturday and Sunday during the summer,” Reilly said. “So, putting it out on social media is to try to show you, ‘Hey, we are changing. Hey, this is new.’” Reilly said they’ve also employed their Facebook page to showcase some of the attraction’s legacy characters, such as the Gravedigger, Jack O’ Lantern, the petrified pumpkin farmer, and some of the clowns, like Sparky, who were around before there was a Clown Town section of the haunt. Their colorful comic book-like profile pages will be collected into a commemorative book available at the attraction’s concession stand, Reilly added. Beyond highlighting characters on their Facebook page, Fear on the Farm is now also making character interactions available in the new Midway section, added during the 2024 season. Located in the lot below the farm’s min-golf area, the well-lit midway helps streamline the loading and unloading of hayride guests while it also offers waiting riders an opportunity to grab a snack or a
photo with a character. The concession stand offers Fear on the Farm T-shirts as well as snacks like mini-donuts, kettle corn, bottled beverages and, through a temporary permit, beer and alcohol. Augusto said Mike McCray, son of the original owner, closely monitors the alcohol sales to ensure the atmosphere is family-friendly all season long.
IT’S THE CHARACTERS THAT KEEP PEOPLE COMING BACK
Augusto said Fear on the Farm takes a different approach to its hauntings, allowing characters to develop their own personas rather than providing scripts for them to follow. For instance, the legacy character Gravedigger, developed during the hayride’s initial season, was the product of the last mask in the box, a tattered flannel shirt, a shovel and the actor’s imagination. Reilly said the secret is that Fear on the Farm actors “love entertaining people, not just scaring people, but making people laugh and suspending reality for everybody.” “I mean, not every wagon is blood-curdling screaming,” she continued. “Some wagons they’re laughing, some wagons they’re shrieking with laughter and wonder.” Their actor’s strength, she said, is being able to read the audience in front of them. “They’re able to read the customers in front of them and say, ‘Ok, I’m going to scare her. I’m going to entertain him, and I’m going to make him laugh’,” Reilly said. Augusto added, “The one thing that I love about our crew is they can terrorize one person, turn and see a child that is ready to burst out crying, and they’ll actually take the time to kneel down discreetly, let them know that it’s make believe and sometimes they’ll have candy or a little trinket to give the child so the child doesn’t leave with nightmares.” Reilly noted that last season, one of the clowns took a child aside and had that child scare her father, “So that child felt like she was part of the show.”
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HOPING FOR A GOOD SEASON
Fear on the Farm, which opens on Friday, Oct. 2, in 2026, has a total of 15 nights to scare and entertain guests during its five weekends of operation. Both Augusto and Reilly are hoping for a good run, with no rain to close the attraction down. “We’re at the mercy of the weather here in New England and we’re all outdoors, “Reilly said. “The only perfect season was 2004.” Augusto jokingly added, “Mother Nature doesn’t always cooperate.” Fear on the Farm is open Friday, Saturday and Sunday from 7 p.m. until the last guest runs out screaming. General admission for the 2026 season is $30 per person. Fast Pass admission, which allows ticket holders to skip the line, is available online for $55. For more information visit their website at fearonthefarm.com. For updated weather closures, visit their Facebook page, updated daily, at facebook.com/fearonthefarmatmccraysfarm.
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ALL THAT’S FALL 2026
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Pick your own!
N
othing says “autumn” more than heading out to an apple orchard or pumpkin patch to choose your own seasonal bounty! The following is a listing of the pumpkin patches and farmstands, and pick-your-own apple orchards in the region, courtesy of the Community Involved in Sustaining Agriculture website. Be sure to check out the website of each farm before venturing out to check on hours for farm stands and conditions in pickyou-own fields. To check out what else is available during the fall season, including the location of farmer’s markets, buylocalfood.org
PUMPKIN PATCHES AND FARMSTANDS: Plum Brook Farm 416 Bay Road, Amherst, MA 01002 info@plumbrookfarm.com plumbrookfarm.com Pine Hill Orchards 248 Greenfield Road, Colrain, MA 01340 413-624-3325 info@pinehillorchards.com pinehillorchards.com
Fletcher Farm 17 Gunn Road, Southampton, MA, 413-203-1350 fletchcows@aol.com fletcherfamilyfarm.com
Park Hill Orchard 82 Park Hill Road, Easthampton, MA 01027 413-303-0335 support@parkhillorchard.com parkhillorchard.com
67 South Main Street, New Salem, MA 01355 978-544-3437 cbhillman@gmail.com newsalempreserves.com
Red Fire Farm 7 Carver Street, Granby, MA, 413-467-7645 thefarmers@redfirefarm.com redfirefarm.com
Bashista Orchards 160 East Street, Southampton, MA 01073 413-527-9091 skyline@crocker.com gotcider.net
Hager’s Farm Market 1232 Mohawk Trail, Shelburne, MA 01370 413-625-6323 hagersfarmmarket@gmail.com hagersfarmmarket.com
Austin Brothers Valley Farm 270 West Street, Belchertown, MA 01007 413-668-6842 413-967-9470 austin.farmkids@gmail.com Austinsfarm.com
Clarkdale Fruit Farms 303 Upper Road, Deerfield, MA 01342 413-772-6797 ben@clarkdalefruitfarms.com clarkdalefruitfarms.com
Apex Orchards 225 Peckville Road, Shelburne, MA 01370 413-625-2744 FarmStore@ApexOrchards.com apexorchards.com
Sentinel Farm 37 Cottage St., Belchertown, MA 01007 413-559-8435 Sentinelfarm37@gmail.com sentinelfarm.com
Pine Hill Orchards 248 Greenfield Road, Colrain, MA 01340 413-624-3325 info@pinehillorchards.com pinehillorchards.com
Roundhill Orchards 1 Douglas Road, Southampton, MA 01073 413-562-4985 andyappleseed@gmail.com
Fern Valley Farms 758 Main Street, Wilbraham, MA 01095, USA 413-367-4422 fernvalleyllcoperations@gmail.com fernvalleyfarmsllc.com/
Ioka Valley Farm 3475 MA-43 Hancock, MA 01237 413-738-5915 missy@iokavalleyfarm.com iokavalleyfarm.com/
PICK-YOUR-OWN APPLE ORCHARDS: Quonquont Farm 9 North Street, Whately, MA 01093 413-575-4680 info@quonquont.com quonquont.com Kielbasa Orchards 290 Bay Road, Hadley, MA 01035 413-455-6687 kielbasa.orchards@gmail.com kielbasaorchards.com
Phoenix Fruit Farm 249 Sabin Street, Belchertown, MA 01007, USA elly@phoenixfruitfarm.com phoenixfruitfarm.com Kosinski Farms 420 Russelville Road, Westfield, MA 01085 413-896-0475 kosinskifarms@comcast.net kosinskifarms.net New Salem Preserves
Plum Brook Farm 416 Bay Road, Amherst, MA 01002 info@plumbrookfarm.com plumbrookfarm.com/
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Breezelands Orchards 1791 Southbridge Rd, Warren, MA, USA 413-436-7100 marktuttle230@gmail.com breezelandsorchards.com/ Cook’s Farm Orchard 106 Haynes Hill Road, Brimfield, MA 01010 413-245-3241 cooksorchard@gmail.com cooksfarmorchard.net/ Information courtesy of Community Involved in Sustaining Agriculture
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Halloween craft ideas for kids
H
alloween is an enjoyable holiday for all, but particularly for children. Kids enjoy the opportunity to channel their whimsy and imagination, whether that involves choosing a clever costume or helping design the theme and scope of home decorations. Parents, guardians and educators can channel the creativity inspired by Halloween into various craft projects. Crafts can not only keep children busy when the “I’m bored” lamentations inevitably turn up, but crafts also are a way to keep children off of screens. Plus, the items that children create can be used to decorate rooms in the house Ñ helping to curb added expenses on commercial decor. The following are some Halloween crafts children can make alone or with the help of older siblings and parents.
JACK’S SLIME
The toothy grins of jack-o’-lanterns can be seen just about everywhere come Halloween, and the bright orange color of pumpkins heralds the start of fall. What better way to say “Halloween is here” than with a craft that can be displayed and also played with? Slime is something that’s always a big hit with kids. Here’s a recipe for slime, courtesy of The Best Ideas for Kids. Ingredients: 6 ounces of Elmer’s glue (substituting with another brand of glue may not produce the same results) Orange food coloring to create desired hue 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda 11/2 tablespoons of contact lens solution (one that contains boric acid in the ingredient list, as that is what causes the chemical reaction to form slime) Optional: 2 tablespoons of water added to the glue before the baking soda if you desire a stretchier slime Black felt or black construction paper, cut into the eyes and mouth of a jack-o’-lantern Small mason jar with lid
FOREST SPIDER
Take a trip to a nearby forest or wooded trail and gather up round pinecones that have fallen. Purchase brown pipe cleaners and cut four of the cleaners in half to form eight legs. Glue the legs on the pinecone and attach several small googly eyes and two larger ones to form the eyes of the spider.
PAPER ROLL TREAT HOLDERS
Rather than discarding the tubes inside of paper towel or toilet paper rolls, let kids transform them into monster craft treat holders. They’ll be perfect for party favors or even to give out to neighborhood trick-or-treaters. Cover the bottoms of the rolls with masking tape so treats won’t fall out. Paint the outside of the cardboard rolls and let dry. An alternative is to cover the rolls in colored paper for less messy fun. Then use markers or paper cut-outs to form faces of the monsters. Fill the rolls with treats, then stuff a piece of tissue paper in each top to add even more personality to the creations and hide the treats inside.
GHOSTLY LEAVES
Make a truly eco-friendly craft on Halloween, with ghosts made out of leaves, eliminating the need to use extra paper. Paint large leaves with white paint. On the narrow-most point on top of the leaves, paint black eyes and mouths. When completely dry, scatter on a table or sideboard for some scary fun, or use double-sided tape to stick to windows and doors. Article courtesy of Metro Creative Graphics
Method: Decorate the mason jar using a bit of glue to stick the black paper or felt face pieces to the outside of the jar. Mix all the ingredients of the slime in a small bowl and pour into the decorated jar.
Turn your home into a haunted house for Halloween
People celebrate Halloween with the same zeal as Thanksgiving and Christmas. Decorating for Halloween has evolved over the years, and many homeowners now go to great lengths to turn their humble abodes into horrific haunts. Achieving a haunted house vibe is easier than one might think with some creative ideas.
DIM THE LIGHTS
Turning down the lights immediately increases the spooky factor for Halloween. The mind may jump to its own conclusions about what is nestled in a shadowy corner or just around the bend. Turning off lights and relying on flickering candles or battery-operated lanterns will also hide any imperfections in your decor.
TACTILE SCARES
Hang loose, dark pieces of string, tattered scrap fabric or faux spider webs from ceilings so that they will lightly brush against passers-by in dark areas. A hidden fan can be positioned to blow a sudden, chilly draft across a doorway to mimic a passing spirit.
HAUNTED PORTRAITS
Outdoors, position low-angle spotlights or floodlights pointing up at walls or trees to cast long, harsh shadows that seem scary.
Inexpensive thrift store frames can dress up eerie vintage photos or lenticular shifting images purchased online. For a real fright, have someone pose behind a frame and actually move or reach out as visitors go by.
BOARD UP THE WINDOWS
CREEPY DOLLS
DIRECT LIGHT UPWARDS
Tape lightweight painted cardboard strips across windows to mimic the look of an abandoned home. Scary shapes cut from cardboard or black paper can be taped inside of windows and backlit by dim lights to create an eerie atmosphere.
UTILIZE FOG MACHINES
If available, a fog machine near an entrance or in a hallway can provide a dense, disorienting haze. Again, it will reduce visibility, which can make a haunted house seem more frightening.
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Gather tattered, old plastic dolls and hang or display them clustered together. Or paint them all white and splatter them with red paint to look like blood.
OBSCURED PATHS
Create blind corners and obscured paths so visitors cannot anticipate what is waiting ahead. Use dark sheets or black painter s canvas taped securely to the ceiling. Position actors along the way to achieve jump scares.
SCARY SOUNDS
Place Bluetooth speakers throughout the haunted house to
play a loop of screams, squeaky hinge noises or footsteps to keep guests off-kilter. A haunted house is expected for Halloween thrills, and it s easy to create a spooky atmosphere with a little effort. Article courtesy of Metro Creative Graphics
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Tips for winterizing exterior living areas
hen the summer entertaining season draws to a close, homeowners need to ensure their outdoor living areas can handle weather that’s right around the corner. Although outdoor furniture and other items tend to be durable, the impact snow, wind and ice can have on them may lead to damage over time. That is why many homeowners take steps to winterize their outdoor spaces and protect their belongings. Here’s a look at how to prepare for the winter to come.
FURNITURE
Cover or store furniture to protect it from the elements. Covering it with weather-proof covers can be adequate if
storing items indoors is not possible.
DEEP CLEAN
Items that will be covered or stored should be thoroughly cleaned prior to being removed from spaces for the season. Lingering dirt and moisture can cause damage.
CHECK GUTTERS
INSULATE AND DRAIN
Don’t risk damage to pipes, which can freeze and crack in the cold. Shut off the water supply to exterior faucets and drain water lines to prevent pipes from freezing and bursting. Use foam pipe insulation to prevent freezing and cover any exposed pipes.
APPLY MULCH
After cleaning up garden debris, think about applying mulch to garden beds and cover tender plants to protect them from the weather.
INSPECT AND REPAIR
Inspect walkways and driveways for any damage and make repairs now so water will not seep in and cause further issues with freeze-thaw cycles. Consider applying a sealant to protect surfaces from snow and ice.
Be sure that gutters and downspouts are clear of leaves and any additional debris. If gutters and downspouts are not cleaned, ice dams may form on the roof and cause water damage.
POOLS AND SPAS
It’s essential to follow the industry or manufacturer recommendations for closing down swimming pools and spas for the season. While covers may not be essential in all climates, covering can help prevent leaves and other debris from getting in the water. Water should be expelled from pipes and tubing to prevent freezing and bursting. If space allows, consider moving the pool pump indoors to prolong its longevity. Turn off the electricity to the outlet where the filter is plugged in. There may be additional, region-specific steps to winterize a property, but these pointers are a good starting point to protect outdoor spaces. Article courtezsy of Metro Creative Graphics
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Get the inside ready for winter
t’s not uncommon to spend a lot of time out of the house when the weather outside is warm. The popularity of outdoor living spaces has made it easier than ever to enjoy nature without leaving home, which can generally be done from late spring to mid-fall each year in many regions. But as fall creeps toward winter and temperatures drop, it’s time to head back indoors. As millions prepare to go back inside with winter approaching, it can be beneficial to winterize a home so interior spaces are more comfortable and exterior spaces are better able to withstand potentially harsh winter weather.
CHECK YOUR CARBON MONOXIDE DETECTORS
Fall is a great season to open the windows in many regions that feature prototypical autumn air. But the crisp air of fall will eventually give way to much colder air, at which time the windows will be closed and likely remain shut for months to come. The Minnesota Department of Health notes that carbon monoxide (CO) is an odorless, colorless gas that cannot be detected by the senses. When windows remain closed for long periods of time, such as in winter, the buildup of CO, which can come from sources like water heaters, gas stoves, fireplaces, and clothes dryers, can poison residents over time. CO detectors are a safety net against such a fate, but they must be operating at peak capacity in order to be effective. As fall winds down, check all CO detectors to make sure they’re working properly and replace any that are not.
CHECK FOR DRAFTS
Check around windows and doors throughout the home to see if there are any gaps that are allowing air from outside to enter the home. If daytime temperatures are mild well into the fall, then it can be difficult to see if there are any drafts before the sun goes down. Conduct this check in the evenings when temperatures are a little more chilly and leaks are easier to detect. If drafts are detected, apply weather stripping around doors and windows that do not require replacement. If there’s drafts around aging windows and doors, consider replacing them.
CALL A CHIMNEY SWEEPING SERVICE
Cozying up beside a fire can make anyone forget the cold weather outside. But fireplaces should be subjected to a thorough cleaning by a skilled professional before each winter. Animals might have nested in the chimney since the fireplace was last used, and you will want any nests cleared prior to lighting your first fire of the season. In addition, the tar-like substance creosote, which forms when wood is burned in a fireplace, can
build up and harden over time. That’s a dangerous prospect, as creosote is highly flammable, which can lead to chimney fires. Creosote also can block the flow of air through a chimney, and that can trap gasses, including CO, in a home.
REVERSE YOUR FANS
It’s a simple step but one people may not even realize they can make. In homes with ceiling fans, residents can reverse the fans so the blades spin clockwise. This simple step pushes trapped warm air hovering around the ceiling into the living space below. This can make home interiors warmer without requiring residents to turn up the thermostat and increase their energy bill.
REPLACE YOUR HVAC AIR FILTER
Replacing the air filter on your HVAC prior to winter can make the unit operate more efficiently, which can help reduce your wintertime energy bill. Replacing the filter prior to winter also improves indoor air quality, which is a notable benefit during a time of year when the windows typically remain closed for months. Winterizing a home is not a significant undertaking, but it can be very effective at making homes healthier and more comfortable once windows are closed for the season. Article courtesy of Metro Creative Graphics
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CREATE A COZY BACKYARD FIREPIT
A
firepit can serve as a warm and inviting backyard retreat, perfect for roasting marshmallows for s’mores or stargazing while wrapped in cozy blankets. Before you can share time around the firepit with loved ones, however, consider these tips to elevate your outdoor space.
CHOOSING THE RIGHT DESIGN
When it comes to building a DIY firepit, the design you choose can significantly impact the aesthetics and functionality. From classic stone pits to modern metal designs, the options are nearly endless. Think about the size and shape as well. Circular designs are traditional and encourage conversation while square or rectangular pits offer a more contemporary look.
F
GATHERING MATERIALS AND TOOLS
Essential materials include bricks, stones or metal parts for the structure, as well as gravel or sand for the base. Fireproof materials are a must to ensure safety and longevity. You’ll also need tools such as a shovel for digging the base, a level to ensure even construction and adhesive or mortar for binding materials together. Depending on your design, you may require a metal fire ring, grill grate or mesh cover.
KEEPING SAFETY IN MIND
Safety should be your top priority when building and using a backyard firepit. Always place your firepit at least 10 feet away from any structures, trees or flammable materials. Make sure the area is clear of dry leaves and other debris that could catch fire. Consider installing a spark screen to prevent embers from escaping and always keep a bucket of water or fire
extinguisher nearby.
ENHANCING AMBIANCE WITH SEATING AND LIGHTING
Creating a cozy atmosphere around your firepit involves more than just the fire itself. Comfortable seating is essential for making your outdoor space inviting. Choose weather-resistant chairs, benches or DIY log stools arranged in a circle to foster conversation. Ambient lighting from string lights, lanterns or solar-powered path lights can elevate the mood and extend the usability of your firepit into the evening. Consider adding citronella candles or torches to keep insects at bay while enhancing the ambiance. Visit eLivingtoday.com to find more ideas to enhance your living spaces. Article courtesy of Features Impact
Family-friendly activities for fall
all is a welcome season for many people. The cooler temperatures and still-ample sunlight mean there is plenty of time to enjoy the great outdoors even if summer has ended. Fall activities dot the calendar, with several different options for individuals and families to get involved. According to Acenda Integrated Health, incorporating family time into a schedule is crucial for a child’s development. It’s also key to have time to get a break from busy schedules. Fall is a great time to do just that with these activities.
APPLE-PICKING
Few things are more refreshing than taking a bite out of an apple fresh off the tree. Orchards are bursting with apples this time of year, and an afternoon spent picking apples is a great way to spend time together.
LEAF TREASURE HUNT
Everyone can head outdoors with a bag or basket to gather leaves. Look for the brightest color or the crunchiest leaf that can be found. The leaves can be pressed between wax paper to save them.
FALL FESTIVALS
Outdoor festivals are ideal for families because they tend to feature crafts, food, music, and activities.
FALL BAKING
Turn those plucked apples into pies or muffins, or use pumpkin and cinnamon to fill a home with delicious seasonal smells. Kids can help stir, pour and sprinkle ingredients.
FOOTBALL
Enjoy a pick-up game of flag or touch football. It’s a great way to enjoy time outdoors and expend some physical activity. Fall is a perfect time to enjoy family-friendly activities. Article courtesy of Metro Creative Graphics
CORN MAZE
Corn mazes may be set up adjacent to pumpkin patches, so the family can pick out the perfect pumpkin to carve and then try to navigate the maze.
SPOOKY WALK
Halloween lands right in the heart of fall. Enjoy a walk through the neighborhood checking out people’s Halloween decorations. A night walk with flashlights to listen to the sounds of animals can be “scary” in its own right. Another idea is to go to a haunted house or walk sponsored by a school or amusement park.
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Plan ahead now to save on energy bills this winter
orried about rising energy costs as you look ahead to the colder months? You’re not alone. Nearly seven in 10 Americans (68%) are already struggling with higher utility bills, which show no signs of going down. With autumn upon us, it’s natural to start thinking about ways to keep heating bills from getting out of control.
TRY A HOME ENERGY AUDIT
You could pay for a professional energy audit, but many local utility companies offer free, low-cost or subsidized home energy audits. This process can help you discover where you could make improvements that can impact your heating costs. Typical energy audits evaluate your home for things like air leaks around windows and doors, your home’s insulation, the efficiency of your HVAC system and more. Some programs even offer free products including LED light bulbs. If your local company doesn’t offer this service, you can perform your own energy audit, following advice from organizations like the National Association of Home Builders. Quick steps to improve energy efficiency Energy audits are one helpful step toward identifying areas of your home that need improvement, so that’s a good place to start. Here are a few simple, low-cost DIY tasks which address many common issues found in energy audits: Caulking and weather stripping for windows or doors can help prevent heat loss, saving anywhere from 5-10% on energy costs over the winter. You may already know from previous winters what areas of your home are harder to keep warm, so take a look at the windows and doors - both inside and outside the home - to find areas where extra caulking or new weather stripping might be needed. Look for obstructions around your home to ensure heat vents, air registers or radiators are not blocked by furniture,
and are clear of dust and debris.
Replace all your lighting with more efficient Energy Star certified LED bulbs. Consider using blackout curtains with thermal properties that are effective for retaining heat.
TAKE CARE OF HVAC MAINTENANCE NOW
Another advantage of planning ahead is that many utility companies and HVAC contractors get booked up far in advance, especially for fall furnace cleaning and tune-up appointments. By calling to schedule your appointment now, you’ll ensure your HVAC system is in great shape before you really need it. This can help prevent emergencies and costly repairs down the road. This is also the perfect time to make sure your furnace filter has been recently changed. Writing the date when you swap out the HVAC filter on the filter itself, as well as setting calendar reminders, can help you remember when this vital task needs to be
performed next. Changing your HVAC filter at least as frequently as the manufacturer recommends helps keep your furnace running more efficiently. A dirty filter can slow air flow, making your furnace work harder. Frequent air filter swaps also help improve the air quality in your home.
USE YOUR THERMOSTAT SMARTLY
Rather than constantly bumping your thermostat up and down, setting it at a slightly lower, constant temperature can help keep your furnace from overworking. Just a degree or two lower can make an impact in overall energy savings during the winter, and programming your thermostat means you can set it and forget it. For example, you could set it to 68 degrees Fahrenheit during the day, lowering it to 60-65 degrees at night or when you’re not home. If you have an older thermostat or find that heating your home is uneven, upgrading to a newer thermostat or one of the latest smart thermostats can make a big difference in energy efficiency and more consistent heating.
CHECK WITH YOUR LOCAL UTILITY COMPANY
Ready to upgrade your home’s HVAC system for a more energy efficient unit? This can be a great way to reduce your costs over the long term. Before you buy, check with your local utility company as well as your state and municipal government to learn about potential rebates or tax credits that may be available to you. Many utility companies also offer cost management programs and energy efficiency programs to help customers navigate the financial impacts of higher utility bills, so it’s worth checking their website or calling to ask. By taking a few of these proactive practical steps now, you can help your home stay warmer and more affordable throughout the colder months of the year. Article courtesy of Brandpoint
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