holiday 13 west hartford mag

FASHION • FOr THe LOve OF A cupcAke • HOLIdAy GuIde • WeddINGS • cOckTAIL •TrAveL

$4.9

5w

esth

artf

ordm

agaz

ine.

com

Hol

iday

201

3

Pets & their peoplePets & their people

A Holiday Guide.Dazzle

1954 59 YEARS OF CONTINUOUS INSPIRATION IN THE PURSUIT OF TECHNICAL PERFECTION

Heritage Black Bay is the direct descendant of Tudor’s technical success in Greenland on the wrists of Royal Navy sailors. 59 years later, the Black Bay is ready to stand as its own legend.

TUDOR HERITAGE BLACK BAY® Self-winding mechanical movement, waterproof to 200 m, 41 mm steel case.Visit tudorwatch.com and explore more. ®

THE RUNWELL FEATURING A BLACK DIAL WITH REMOTE SWEEP SECOND IN

A BLACK IP CASE AND DETROIT-BUILT ARGONITE 1069 MOVEMENT.

IN 60 YEARS OR SO, A GRANDFATHER WILL FINALLY BE ABLETO PASS DOWN AN AMERICAN WRISTWATCH.

As makers of handcrafted watches, bicycles, leather goods, and journals, we believe that products should be built to last, and

they should be built here in America. Shinola stands for skill at scale, the preservation of craft, the beauty of industry.

LUX BOND & GREEN

46 LaSalle Road WEST HARTFORD CENTER 860.521.3015416 Boylston Street BOSTON 617.266.4747

800.524.7336 LBGreen.com

HOLIdAy 2013

FEATURESFROM THE PUBLISHERHappy Holidays from Tom and some community announce-ments

PEOPLENotable events and galas worth celebrating

PEOPLEAround Town

WEDDINGSTyler & EaganMcEachern & BerminghamRichard & Kaletski

TRAVEL Escaping winter is easy as A-B-C!

WINEPairing wines with holiday foods

SPOTLIGHTIn the spirit of shopping local this season, meet Erica and her local boutique: Silkworm.

DEPARTMENTS

12

36

10

21

28

38

52

Pets & their PeoPleby Lisa LelasFour notable pets and their people remind you to remember your pet this holiday season.

radiant recognitionby Lisa LelasLux, Bond & Green’s John Green gains International position.

For the love oF a cuPcakeby Cindy ScanlonA memoir of how a cupcake led one couple to retiring in West Hartford.

glam girl next doorby Bridgette LarcadaMeet West Hartford’s own “glam girl next door”, and author of the blog “OhSoGlam”, Christina DeFilippo. 41

23

48

ON THe cOver Yellow lab, Tyson with Dan O’Brien, of Uberdog, West Hartford.

is for holidays!

a holiday guide

2013

19

BEAUTYHeavenly Hair-best tips for party season!

FINANCEFinancial empowerment for baby boomers

DAZZLEOur 2013 Holiday Gift Guide!

SPECIAL SECTIONMonarch Jewelers 2013 Magazine.

SPECIAL SECTIONCatholic Charities Help & HopeFatherhood Initiative: Pathways to Responsible Fatherhood!

INSERTWadsworth Atheneum 40th Anniversary Festival of Trees.

GARDENKeep potted gift plants looking their best!

50

60

63

73

65

63

38

52

44

97

28

107

� westhartfordmagazine.com

A WHMedia, Inc. company

West Hartford Magazine is published six times a year by WHMedia, Inc. SUBSCRIPTIONS: One year for $29. Newsstand $4.95 each.To subscribe, renew or change address write: West Hartford Magazine, 998 Farmington Avenue, Suite 205, West Hartford, CT 06107;www.westhartfordmagazine.com. EDITORIAL & LETTERS: [email protected] – please include full name, town and phonenumber (for verification only, not for publication). ADVERTISING: 860-523-1800. ©2012 WHMedia, Inc. All rights reserved. No part of thisperiodical may be reproduced without express permission of the publisher. West Hartford Magazine is a registered trademark owned byWHMedia, Inc. The opinions expressed by writers commissioned for articles published by West Hartford Magazine are not necessarily those ofthe magazine.

998 Farmington Ave., Suite 205, West Hartford, CT 06107www.westhartfordmagazine.comoffice 860-523-1800

A WHMEDIA, INC. COMPANY

West Hartford Magazine is published six times a year by WHMedia, Inc. SUBSCRIPTIONS: One year for $29. Newsstand $4.95 each.To subscribe, renew or change address write: West Hartford Magazine, 998 Farmington Avenue, Suite 205, West Hartford, CT 06107;www.westhartfordmagazine.com. EDITORIAL & LETTERS: [email protected] – please include full name, town and phonenumber (for verification only, not for publication). ADVERTISING: 860-523-1800. ©2012 WHMedia, Inc. All rights reserved. No part of thisperiodical may be reproduced without express permission of the publisher. West Hartford Magazine is a registered trademark owned byWHMedia, Inc. The opinions expressed by writers commissioned for articles published by West Hartford Magazine are not necessarily those ofthe magazine.

998 Farmington Ave., Suite 205, West Hartford, CT 06107www.westhartfordmagazine.comoffice 860-523-1800

A WHMEDIA, INC. COMPANY

PublisherThomas P. Hickey, [email protected] Operations OfficerJoy Brigham [email protected] EditorLisa [email protected] DesignerJennifer [email protected] EditorBridgette [email protected] ConsultantsMichael [email protected] [email protected] TavarozziInternsAnna B. Beyer, Alex StonerPublishing AdvisorJonathan MofflyContributing Writers & ColumnistsLydia Brown, Daniel Casper, Stacey Cohen, Jane Connery, Bridgette Larcada, Cindy Scanlon, Ertan SenerContributing PhotographersBrian Ambrose Photography, Cheyney Barrieau, Kathryn Deane Photography, Keith Griffin, Jane and Michael Shauk/IRIS Photography, Susan Izard, Matthew Lin Photography, Mitchell Marcus, Amy Melvin, Ira Nozik Photographers, Christine Paluf Petit, Katie Slater, St. Johns Episcopal Church, Ronit Shoham, Joy Taylor, Uplift Photography, Manny VargasPrint AdvisorBob CarrWebsiteKate Jones, Moonbase.Social Media CoordinatorLarah WinnBookkeeperDebbie [email protected] Gordon

� westhartfordmagazine.com� westhartfordmagazine.com

Silkworm

� westhartfordmagazine.com

10 westhartfordmagazine.com

PUBLISHER

phot

ogra

phy

by c

HrI

STIN

e pA

LuF

peTI

T

Happy Holidays!

I am the proud husband of the principal of St. Brigid School. If you haven’t heard yet, Shevon was named principal this past July. Since Andrea (Andrea Austin-Thompson, director of Advancement at SBS) has done such a great job promoting Shevon and SBS, I feel like you must have heard by now. For years, Shevon has been my supporter, date and partner at countless social events, so it is quite an honor to be her “right arm” representing her new vi-sion at SBS. As with all new positions she has some major challenges ahead, but the outpouring of support for her and the school has been nothing short of amazing. Stay tuned for some big plans she has in store for our community! As an alumni (class of 1974), I encourage you to call Shevon or Andrea and visit SBS (100 Mayflower Street, 860-561-2130). Special thanks to Nicky, Tyson, Bella & phinneas and Sally & Shelby for allowing us to photograph their families (the Jones’, O’Brien’s, Humphries’ and Mascola’s) for our peTS and THeIr peOpLe feature … which we plan on making an annual feature! We welcome you to submit photos before June 2014 to be considered for publication (see details on page 28) in our next Holiday Issue (November, 2014). It isn’t everyday that a local business owner is named chairman of an inter-national association, so we were thrilled when John Green agreed to have us photograph him at his store, Lux Bond & Green on LaSalle road. Best wishes to John throughout his tenure as chairman of the Board of Governors of the Gemological Institute of America (see page 38). ‘dAZZLe you once again this year’ is what we have done on page 65. We have selected some very unique and creative (ok and some just fun & frivolous) gift ideas for you to consider giving this Holiday Season. enjoy shopping, and most importantly, SHOp LOcAL and support the fine stores and businesses within your community. Stroll West Hartford center on Thursday, december 5th and as Media Sponsor join us at the Information Booth on Farmington Avenue where we’ll have lots of surprises in store for you. As Archbishop Mansell gets ready for retirement join us as Media Spon-sor of the Annual catholic charities Breakfast on Thursday, december 12th and wish him well. Take time to enjoy some great champagne at West Side Wines Annual

champagne Tasting event @ cuvee on Saturday, december 7 (see page 7). ertan’s Wine column is full of great suggestions for wine and champagne pairings for your holiday functions. As Media Sponsor we encourage you to enjoy and partake, but as always, do so responsibly. Some of us, like Shevon and I, have been lucky enough to be born and raised in West Hartford … for writer, cindy Scanlon, all it took was a cupcake to get her to move to town! (see page 44). For 2014 I will be changing the focus of my publishers column to feature a non-profit organization in each issue. West Hartford Magazine is involved with many great causes and events I thought it would be more interesting to share who we are involved with and why. If you have subscribed in the past (the only way to guarantee delivery of every issue to your home or office), you will receive an invoice to join ‘Our club’ (if you haven’t already). We have contracted with a mail house to coordinate this very important service so please let us know if you have any questions or concerns. Thank you in advance for renewing or starting your subscription. As always, our subscription club members (see page 20) are acknowledged and thanked in each issue. Worth noting that if you join the club you get lots of perks like Free tickets to events! your next issue of WeST HArTFOrd MAGAZINe will be on-line and in your home just as we end our February School vacation Week! Best wishes to you and your family for a Happy, Safe and peaceful Holiday Season!

Here’s to 2014,

regards,

Thomas p. Hickey IIpublisher [email protected]

Founded by the Sisters of Mercy

2021 Albany Ave, West Hartford www.TheMercyCommunity.org | 860-570-8400

Best decision i ever made.I have the freedom to do whatever I want, with whomever I want. I get to enjoy great food and fun activities. And if I need some extra help down the road, I can get that too. This is my world, and it’s a real community.

This is the world

I CHOSE.

Pumpkin CarnivalHalloween Stroll

PEOPLE

Hundreds gathered in West Hartford Center on Oc-tober 26 for the annual Pumpkin Carnival & Halloween Stroll, presented by the Moms & More Club of West Hartford. Event began at the Town Hall parking lot with a festive carnival of live music, prize give-a-ways and games. Then, children of all ages dressed in costumes and went trick-or-treating at participating merchants in West Hartford Center and Blue Back Square. A fun evening was had by all. The event is produced by the Moms & More Club of West Hartford with collaboration of West Hartford Center and Blue Back Square merchants, as well as the town of West Hartford. Moms & More Club of West Hartford was formed as a way to help both working and stay at home moms. Their mission is to bring a small town atmosphere into a large metro area. www.momsandmoreclub.com

phot

ogra

phy b

y kA

THry

N d

eAN

e pH

OTO

GrA

pHy

Moms & More club of West HartfordJoumana Ahmed, Karma Elwan, & Ahmed Elwan.

Lara Zier and her daughter Grace Zier. Connor Janis.

Lucas and Lilly Price-Glynn.

Hunter and Hadley Cruz-Scheublin. (Left to right, Front) Isha Khanna, Neerja Khanna, Samya Kan-war, Luke Rubino, and Neev Kanwar. (Left to right, Back) Jade Fraioli, Julia Deane, and Grace Rubino.


Trick or Treat...Miracle League Style!

phot

ogra

phy b

y rO

NIT

SH

OH

AM

Left : Tess Michaud, Mary Lynn Michaud, Jamie Roland.

Right: Ben and Lisa Roland, Marcus Apter, and Jamie Roland at the Miracle League Halloween party.

Sofia Turek is pretty in pink.

Christine, Kevin (aka Pirate) and Michael Skeggs at the Miracle League Halloween party. Christine, Kevin (aka Pirate) and Michael Skeggs at the Miracle League Halloween party.

PEOPLE

The MIracle League of Connecticut held its second annual Trick or Treat stroll this past Halloween week at the Miracle League base-ball field. Children with special needs and their families enjoyed the event in a place that was designed and built to be accessible to all. Participants agreed that it was a huge success with about 150 children with special needs able to trick or treat once again this year. The Miracle League baseball field is located at the UConn Athletic Complex, on the corner of Trout Brook Drive and Asylum Avenue in West Hartford.

Holiday 2013 west hartford magazine 13


PEOPLE

phot

ogra

phy b

y BrI

AN

AM

BrO

Se p

HO

TOG

rApH

y

Miracles Gala XXIVIt was another sell-out evening at the Connecticut Convention Center for this year’s gala,presented by Saint Francis Hospital and Medical Center. Nearly 1,400 guests came to support this year’s beneficiary, The Comprehensive Women’s Health Center at the hospital. Since its inception in 1990 to celebrate the affiliation of the Saint Francis and Mount Sinai Hospitals, the annual Miracles galas have raised over $14 million for hospital initiatives. The event featured a cocktail reception, dinner, dancing, silent wine and wine dinner auctions.The Comprehensive Women’s Health Center will provide dedicated services for women in the nation’s most advanced state-of-the-art facility.

MIrAcLeS co-chair Elizabeth Rubino, MIrAcLeS co-chairs Mario Cirikovic and Janice England-Cirikovic, Archbishop Henry J. Mansell, D.D, Honorary chairperson – Pau-line Nagle Olsen, M.D.; Eileen Dadlez and Christopher M. Dadlez, president and chief executive Officer, Saint Francis care.

Thomas J. Godar, M.D.; Mary Kay Godar; Robert M. Jeresaty, M.D. and Catherine A. Jeresaty.

Richard Maffiolini, Tracy Fox and Barbara Gordon.Joyce Mandell and Irene O’Connor.

Irvin D. Reid, Ph.D. and Pamela Trotman Reid, Ph.D., president, university of Saint Joseph .

dancing the night away.

Chamber’s Annual Golf Tournament

PEOPLE

phot

ogra

phy b

y IrA

NO

ZIk

pHO

TOG

rApH

erS

Cindy Cicchetti, Marc Prendergast, Kevin Foster, David Fine.

Mark Milligan, Sean Doyle, Eduardo Gonza-lez, Lary Levitts.

Harry Captain, Barbara Keitner, Mayor Scott Slifka, Maryellen Milio and Peter Lisi.

Chip Kohn, owner of Beechland Tavern.Rick Simon, Tim Giuliano.

More than 100 golfers came out to support the West Hartford Chamber of Commerce’s 27th annual Golf Tournament at Wampanoag Country Club in West Hartford this fall. Pre-sented by Rockville Bank, the tournament featured brunch, 18 holes of golf, an on-course BBQ shack, and was followed by a cocktail hour and dinner, with many prize drawings and a live auction. Proceeds from the event make it possible for the Chamber to offer a wide array of activities and programs. Major sponsors of the tourna-ment were: AAA and Westfarms at the Platinum level. Farmington Bank, People’s United Bank, Legrand/Wiremold, Blue Back Square, and Edens att the Gold level, and Comcast Busi-ness, Webster Bank, and TD Bank at the Silver level.

1� westhartfordmagazine.com

Habitat for Humanity

PEOPLE

Hartford Area Habitat for Humanity in partnership with sponsors from First Church of Christ Congre-gational and St. John’s Episcopal Church (both of West Hartford) built a new home on Liberty Street in Hartford that was dedicated on Saturday, October 5, 2013. The groundbreaking for this project was just one year ago, and the construction began in earnest during the winter. Volunteers weathered bitter cold to complete the aggressive construction targets set by Habitat’s building team. The two faith communities came together to work side by side learning some new skills and providing much needed sweat equity to get the job done. Over the course of the build, volunteers committed over 600 hours to this project. The Woods family took ownership after going through Habitat’s homeownership program, and as mom Stephanie Woods said “I’m ready for the responsibility!” Please visit www.hartfordhabitat.org, www.whfirst-church.org, and www.sjparish.net.

Members of First Church (including Senior Pastor Geordie Cambell at far left), gathered with mem-bers of the Woods family at the dedication.

Bea Powell, representing the Clay Arsenal Neigh-borhood Association, offers a warm neighborly welcome!

Three of the five Woods family members were on hand for the dedication. From left, Stephanie Woods and two of her four children Garrian and Jaida.

Dale Wolfe, from First Church of Christ Congrega-tional, proudly raised his shovel for the ceremonial ground breaking in October of 2012.

Mark Proft, from Saint John’s Episcopal Church, accepts a commem-orative plaque from Habitat’s Interim Executive Director Don Shaw.

phot

ogra

phy b

y S.

IZA

rd, J

. TAy

LOr

and

cour

tesy

of S

T. JO

HN

’S e

pISc

OpA

L c

Hu

rcH

.

Right: Church members from First Church of Christ Congregational and St. John’s Episcopal Church volunteered over 600 hours over a 12-month period to help build the home.


PEOPLE

TownAround

The new local nonprofit, “Cut Out Cancer” recently unveiled “Mondays at Milano” to help those having cancer treatments with special care and healing through salon services. The event included a Screening of HBO’s “Mondays at Racine.” The program will start in 2014 and more information can be found online at www.facebook.com/cutoutcancerct. photography by Mitchell Marcus.

Deb Katz, Cynthia Sansone and Rachel DeMolfetto (Racine owners and sisters), and Ayelet Chozik, one of the founders of Cut Out Cancer.

Pictured above: Rachel Marcus and Cindy Horowitz, two of the founders of Cut Out Cancer.

Jim Chapdelaine, producer, four-time Emmy winning composer, recording engineer, and guitarist sat down with Peter Occhineri, skilled guitar maker, during Peter’s exhibit of hand-crafted guitars at West Hartford Art League’s Salt Box Gallery. photography by Joy Taylor.

Companions for Living teamed up with Playhouse on Park and Dornenburg/Kal-lenbach Advertising to present its annual “Vino and a Show” which benefits the Alzheimer’s Association, Connecticut Chapter. This year’s event was an entertain-ing Senior Edition of “The Dating Game.” Rick Fountain hosted the game show on the Playhouse stage. photography by Amy Melvin.

Pictured above: Hall High School classmates (‘84) Jill Ehrlich Jarvis, Rebecca H. Selig, Amy Brigham Melvin, Companions for Living President Julianne Roth, Ellen Lerner Cyr, and Joy Brigham Taylor.

Rick Fountain played host to The Dating Game, Senior Edition. Behind him is the bachelor of the evening and three bachelorettes.

Cathleen and Fran Laffin at the recent Catholic

Charities, Archdiocese of Hartford Annual meeting.

Fran was awarded the “Help & Hope Award” for his

development and dedication to the Residential Program.

photography by keith Griffin


Bella BridesmaidA COLLECTION FOR THE MODERN BRIDESMAID

73 MEMORIAL R WEST HARTFORD, CT860.308.2498


WEDDINGS

Congratulationselizabeth Tyler & Mike Eagan, Jr.

Childhood friendship can sometimes help solidify a romantic future. Such is the case for Elizabeth and Mike Eagan, Jr. Growing up as family friends, the newlyweds already have many years worth of stories, spending summers together with their families at the beach in Old Lyme. A few years ago, the couple started dating and realized they were meant to be together. While boating one day, last summer, Mike stopped the engine in front of Old Lyme shores. He popped the question and pulled out the ring, which was attached to a floating buoy keychain just in case it went overboard. Their relationship has been unsinkable ever since! The bride is the daughter of Ron and Ellen Tyler, of Old Lyme. She received her B.A. and M.A. from UConn in Speech-Language Pathology. Elizabeth is certified Speech-Language Pathologist and now working toward her PhD in speech, language and healing sciences. The groom is the son of Geralyn and Mike Eagan, Sr., of West Hartford. He graduated from Northwest Catholic and earned his bachelors degree from Endicott College, where he also played football, majoring in sports management. Mike is a personal trainer and also works for his father’s property management company in West Hartford. The newlyweds married on July 26 at Christ the King Church in Old Lyme and celebrated later at he Riverhouse at Goodspeed Station in Haddam. They reside in West Hartford. nVisit westhartfordmagazine.com for more WEDDINGS.

(above) The happy bride & groom.Right: Elizabeth escorted by her

father down the isle.

photography by upLIFT pHOTOGrApHyupliftpotography.com

Far Left: Mike and his mom, Geralyn Eagan.Left (Inset): Elizabeth’s mom made beach ornaments as favors.(below): The wedding

party on the dock near the Riverhouse in

Haddam, CT.


SERVE UP THE

SAVINGS.WE’RE READY

TO EAT.

BRISTOL1168 Farmington Ave.860.585.5544

BROOKFIELD3 Federal Road203.885.0216

GROTON646 D. Longhill Road860.446.0022

MANCHESTER283 West Middle Tpk.860.533.9780

ORANGE471 Boston Post Road203.799.7387

SHELTON675 Bridgeport Ave.203.926.8422

WEST HARTFORD2480 Albany Avenue860.570.2461

WESTPORT1870 Post Road East203.254.0008

WETHERSFIELD1773 Berlin Turnpike 860.563.3110

WETHERSFIELD1142 Silas Deane Hwy.860.563.3510

$5 OFFANY NATURAL DOG OR CAT

FOOD PURCHASE $60 OR MORE

Limit one coupon per purchase. Not valid with any other offers. Valid at participating Connecticut locations only.Offer expires December 31, 2013.

PLU #89581

STORE COUPON OFFER EXPIRES 12/31/2013

CONNECTICUT STORES ARE FAMILY OWNED AND OPERATED.

2012RUNNERUP


I won’t sell you insurance,I’ll sell you

FAMILY FUN!

SPONSOR AN ANIMALGive a gift to help care for one of the

many animals in residence at The NewChildren's Museum or Roaring Brook Nature

Center. Your sponsorship helps us to improveour wildlife habitats, to provide our animals vet-

erinary care and to develop educational programsfor our visitors. Sponsors receive a certificate, a color

photograph, a biography, and an opportunity to visit andlearn more about their animal. Please contact The Wildlife

Sanctuary at 860.231.2830 ext. 50.

HONOR THEM. SUPPORT US!Looking for a gift this holiday season for the person who haseverything? Make a donation to The New Children’s MuseumAnnual Fund in someone’s honor. It’s a great feeling to know thatbecause of you, The New Children’s Museum can continue itsgood work. We will send a certificate to your honoree. Thank youfor considering The New Children’s Museum during your holidayshopping. It’s easy. Visit www.TheChildrensMuseumCT.org andclick on Donate Now.

GIVE THEGIFTOFMEMBERSHIPMembership to The New Children’s Museum allows a familyto enjoy our exhibits and daily activities as often as they like, for afull year, as well as discounts on programs. Call 860.231.2830 x32or go to www.TheChildrensMuseumCT.org and click on Join Us.

Come on now, thinkof the children!

See Planetarium info. andother events on back

950 Trout Brook Drive

West Hartford

860-231-2824

www.thechildrensmuseumct.org

The NEW Children’s Museum950 Trout Brook Drive, West Hartford, CTwww.thechildrensmuseumct.org860.231.2824

Roaring Brook Nature Center70 Gracey Road, Canton, CTwww.roaringbrook.org860.693.0263

THE NEW CHILDREN’S MUSEUM HOURS:Tuesday – Saturday 9:00 am – 4:00 pm • Sunday 11:00 am – 4:00 pmClosed Mondays (Open on 11/11) • Holiday Hours: Closed on 11/28 & 12/25Open on 12/24 from 9 – 2:00 pm • Open on 12/31 and 1/1 9 – 4:00 pm

ROARING BROOK NATURE CENTER HOURS:Tuesday – Saturday 10:00 am – 5:00 pm • Sunday 1:00 – 5:00 pmClosed Mondays (Open on 11/11) • Holiday Hours: Closed on 11/28, 12/25 & 1/1Open on 12/24 & 12/31 from 10 – 3:00 pm

HOLIDAYCRAFT FAIR:NOVEMBER 24TH

NOON-4:00pm

Featuring nature-related gifts for all ages. Handmadecrafts will include candles, pottery, jewelry, soaps,

felted ornaments and many other items.

Proceeds from this Friends of Roaring Brook fundraiserbenefit the programs and activities at

Roaring Brook Nature Center.

WINTER VACATIONPROGRAM:

WILD WINTERJoin us for four days of fun over winter vacation.

Learn how to identify animal tracks,follow them to uncover winter secrets, &learn about survival in the winter woods.

Dates: December 26, 27, 30 and 31

VACATION SCIENCE CAMP9:00am - 4:00pm at The New Children’s Museum.Members pay $60 per day, Non-Members pay: $70per day. For Grades 1-5. Pre-registration is required.� December 23Holiday Science - Grow crystal snowflakes, createchromatography ornaments, and experiment with candycane slime.� December 27Winter Animals- Meet the furry and feathered friends in ourwildlife sanctuary who thrive in cold temperaturesand learn how they stay warm.� December 30Supercold Science- Examine the science behind cold weather.Make your own snow and conduct freezing cold chemistryexperiments.� December 31That’s A Wrap: Engineering Challenge- Use leftover holidaymaterials like wrapping paper, boxes, and cardboard tubes todesign and build impressive structures.

Come have fun at the RoaringBrook Nature Center onSaturday, December 21, theshortest day of the year. Takea guided hike in Werner Woods,make a variety of winter-relatedcrafts, or watch a presentationon the beauty of winter. Hotchocolate and cookies will beprovided. No need to pre-register, and the event startsat 1:00pm and ends at4:00pm. Free withNature Centeradmission.

WINTERSOLSTICE

CELEBRATION

Playing in the planetariumfrom November 29, 2013 –January 1, 2014.

Let It Snow

CongratulationsHannah Richard & david Kaletski

Newlyweds, Hannah and David Kaletski will forever be bound with ‘rainbow blessings’ of joy! After dating a few years, one Thanksgiving, David decided to take Hannah on a scavenger hunt throughout the town they were visiting. At the last stop, the final clue was to attend a Native American Folk Festival that was going on nearby. As they entered the festival, there was native music, dancing and singing all around them, but Hannah wondered what was going on when she suddenly noticed family members there with video cameras. As fate would have it, just as a bright colored rainbow stretched across the sky, David got down on one knee and proposed. The bride is the daughter of Jerry Richard and Faith DiMatteo, and the stepdaughter to Mario DiMatteo, of Burlington, CT. She attended St. Joseph’s College in West Hartford where she received both bachelors and masters degrees in early childhood and special education. Hannah is currently employed as a Pre-K teacher for the Bristol public school system. The groom is the son of Judy Kaletski and the late Benjamin Simon Kaletski, of Rhode Island. David attended the University of Rhode Island where he received a Bachelors degree in business administration concentrating in marketing and finance. He is currently a partner in the CT office of Datapay Payroll in Farmington. The wedding took place on August 3 at the St. Mary Star of the Sea church with a reception that followed at the Village Inn, both in Narragansett, RI. After a honeymoon in Hawaii, the couple now resides in West Hartford. nVisit westhartfordmagazine.com for more WEDDINGS.

photography by MATTHeW LIN pHOTOGrApHy newvibestudios.com

Above top: The bride & groom share a moment.Above: Hannah & David with close family members.Left (inset): newly married Hannah & David.

Below: The complete wedding party.

WEDDINGS


Congratulationskathryn McEachern & Neil Bermingham

photography by kATIe SLATerkatieslaterphotography.com

Newlyweds, Kathryn and Neil Bermingham admit that the day they met at Arch Street Tavern, it was love at first sight. When Neil eventually proposed to Kathryn, he took into account her love of children’s books, as she is an elementary school teacher. He decided to write and publish a children’s book for her, titled, “The Lucky Leprechaun” and hide it at the Hartford Public Library. With a little help from the school principal, she was told there was a book on hold for her class at the library. Later, as she sat in the parking lot reading the book about Hank the leprechaun searching for gold, she turned the last page, which asked Kate to marry Neil. She looked up and Neil was on one knee holding a ring in his hand. The bride is the daughter of William and Mary McEachern, of Carver, MA. She attended Trinity College and then Central Connecticut State University for her Masters degree. Kathryn is employed as a second grade school teacher with Hartford Public schools. The groom is the son of the late Bruce and Judy Bermingham, formerly of West Hartford. He graduated from Conard High School and Keene State College. Neil is employed as a Professional Liability Associate Account Executive with Travelers of Hartford. The couple was married on October 19 at the Trinity College Chapel with a reception at The Pond House in Elizabeth Park. On their wedding day, Neil gave Kate another children’s book he wrote called “Hank’s Happiest Day”! Their honeymoon was in the Cayman Islands and they currently reside in West Hartford. nVisit westhartfordmagazine.com for more WEDDINGS.

Above Far Right: The bride & groom.Above Left: The wedding party.Above Center: Kathryn & Neil celebrate in Autumn leaves.Above: Neil with brother, Reed and sister, Kristen.

Left: Bride’s flower bouquet reflects the Autumn wedding.

WEDDINGS


290 Prospect Avenue, Hartford • 860.232.0010

single doors, door & panel, neo angle, custom frameless

distinctive designsoffering an

enduring style

frameless & framed shower enclosures

for new and existing bathrooms.

Quality is transparent

Quality is transparent


dogs Sally & Shelby with Dr. Lauren Mascola (center), her husband John Swift and their three sons Cooper, Baur and Easton. (Not pictured, Dory the cat).

Pets[and their people]

Don’t forget about your furry friends this holiday season!

by Lisa Lelasphotography by Ira Nozik photographers

Despite this being the season of joy, the holidays can bring stress to all of us, and pets are no exception. When routines are disrupted and new

activities occur, your pet may be the first to notice. More than half of all families in America today are pet owners. It’s important to give pets special attention during the holiday season. Many will get stressed with the added hustle and bustle of holiday guests and new routines. Always provide plenty of food and water and a quiet room where they can escape the social commotion and get some Z’s. While the holidays are a popular time

for welcoming a new furry friend into your home, make sure your entire family is on board with the decision. Surprises are not best for the pet involved. Consider opening your heart to the many homeless animals waiting for adoption right now at your local animal shelter and/or donating pet food and supplies to the shelter. With the premier of this new annual feature, West Hartford Magazine welcomes you to send in a favorite pet photo pictured with you or as part of your family. Deadline for submission is June 30. Selected photos will appear in next year’s Holiday issue. Submission details listed on the next page. Four notable ‘pets and their people’ from the area offer a few words of wisdom on taking good care of your pets this holiday season!


Nicky with Karen Jones

Nicky, an adorable 2-year old terrier mix, shares an important message with everyone this holiday season: “A short while ago, I was petrified, roaming the streets of West Hartford with no where to go. The Animal Control Center took me in, giving me food and a warm place to sleep. I am now happy go lucky, playing with my toys and awaiting a new home and loving family to adopt me! Please don’t forget about us this holiday. My furry friends and I at the shelter all need permanent homes!” Thanks to animal control officer, Karen Jones, Nicky at least now has a temporary roof over his head. Despite sometimes being depicted as the bad guy in Disney movies, Karen assures us that animal control officers really have compassion for animals in their community. Rather than having a stray animal endanger itself or others, they are taken into their facility and cared for. “We feed them and advertise to find their

owners. Our number one mission is to find the owner. Only then, after waiting a period of time, we will put them up for adoption.” Karen reminds pet owners that all dogs in Connecticut must be registered in their town. No license registration is required for cats. There are many animals waiting to find permanent homes. Interested parties can log onto www.petfinder.com with links to local pets in the community or throughout the state and farther. Each pet listed has photos and a description of their personality or needs. There is a $50 adoption fee, which includes a voucher for spay/neutering and some vaccinations. “Now, with the internet,” she explains, “getting a pet is so much easier but it doesn’t mean it comes without head-aches. People are getting animals they’ve never met. They have no idea what their behavior is or how they would blend in with their family. And people should not forget that there are so many pets available locally right here in the West Hartford community.”

Karen adopted her own pets from a shelter, too. Her dog, Giada, a Mastiff mix and Dharma, her cat, came from her facility. “Even my first dog as a child came from a shelter. ‘Dusty’ was a collie-shepherd mix I got when I was about 12 years old. I loved collies because of ‘Lassie’!” “If anyone is considering a new pet for the holiday, make it a group decision.” Karen says to make it your grocery list (priority list) of what’s important for your family, whether a dog that is active, quiet, good with kids, and so on. “Like shopping for cars. If you have a family of 5, a tiny sports car is probably not the best decision.” The animal control facility in West Hartford has many different animals for adoption throughout the year, aside from dogs and cats, including bunnies, guinea pigs, exotic birds, parakeets, and reptiles. The town of West Hartford does things right, according to Karen, “the animal control facility here is part of the town’s law enforcement.” As a division of the West Hartford police department, animal control officers are armed. They undergo extensive background checks, must pass lie detector tests and be finger printed. “It’s a long process,” admits Karen, “but one worth the time!” “I love my job!” she smiles, “I always knew I wanted to work with animals and wildlife. I especially love dogs.” With a degree in biology and looking for a job, Karen responded to a help-wanted ad for an assistant animal control officer at the West Hartford facility along with 300 other

Send us your favorite pet photo pictured with you or as part of your family and your photo could be chosen to appear in our next Holiday “pets & Their people” feature story! deadline for submission is June 30, 2014. Send to :[email protected], and put “pet photo” in subject. please include your name and address. you must be a West Hartford resident to submit. don’t forget to include a photo caption of pet’s name, age, breed, and any family members included in the photo.

Photo Submission & Contest Rules


job applicants… and she landed the job. Karen, now the senior animal control officer, has been at her job for 19 years. The Animal Control center is a division of the West Hartford Police Department. www.petfinder.com Best advice from Karen for adopting a new pet: “The personality of the pet needs to fit the personality of the family to make a life long success story. We want it to be a win-win situation for all involved!”

Tyson [the “Úberdog”] with Dan O’Brien

Meet Tyson O’Brien. Tyson is a big lovable 7-year old yellow lab that helped inspire the creation of Uberdog! Many might say that other people helped them kick start a new career. For Dan O’Brien, owner of Uberdog, a pet care facility, inspiration came from a different source. He explains, “the catalyst for my business was my dog, Tyson and his needs.” When he and his wife needed to find pet day-

care for Tyson, they were unhappy with the facilities available in the area. Soon after…Uberdog was created. What started out as a necessity for Tyson turned into a wonderful gift to the community. “People in West Hartford have very high expectations. We know they want the very best for their pets. We don’t let them down.” Dan says. Uberdog is an ever-expanding facility offering overnight care, grooming, and ‘play-care’ during the day. Currently, under expansion, the center will soon boast 13,000 square feet. “It will soon be the largest pet care center in Connecticut.” Dan says, “We were simply running out of space.” “It’s the alternative to typical kennels. We don’t believe in an old fashioned stale environment. Everything is over-sized at Uberdog. Plenty of room for each dog to run and play. There are even luxury dog dens with people beds, complete with chandeliers!”

Uberdog is unique in that each dog has its own indoor and outdoor play area. “We let dogs out by groups”, he explains. Divided into age, breed or size, careful that each dog in a play-group gets along well with the others. All pets are supervised by “wagologists”, trainers that are all fully experienced and knowledgeable in pet first aid, CPR and animal behavior. Uberdog runs on a very transparent policy. There are look-in windows and even webcams so people can check in and see their dog while on vacation. Just as people can get stressed when schedules get busy, Dan reminds us, “over the holidays, people don’t always take into account that when they travel or have extra guests and swarms of people at their home for parties, dogs get stressed out also! Give them a vacation too! They need quiet time. Time to rest.” Just ask Tyson! He warns pet owners to keep an extra eye on their pets this time of year. Dogs can get sick from drinking tree water and table scraps.


Food allergies in pets are also on the rise. Be careful and diligent with pet food choices. Never feed them grapes, raisins or onions which can be hazardous to their health. Uncooked cookie dough and chocolate can also be harmful to an animal’s digestive system.

It’s important to give your pets special attention during the holiday season.

Keep an extra eye on your pet this time of year. Dogs can get sick from drinking tree water and table scraps.

The personality of the pet needs to fit the personality of the family to make a life long success story.

Today, more than 50 percent of households in America have pets.


Need a special holiday gift idea? Uberdog has gift certificates available…think about giving your pooch a fun weekend retreat while you have a house full of guests or need to do some holiday traveling. Uberdog, 635 New Park Avenue in West Hartford. www.myuberdog.com. Dan admits he was always an animal lover but never had a pet growing up. “The first thing I did when I moved out was to get a dog.” Tyson came into his life at that time. Now, seven years later, his family also includes his wife, Isabella and their two sons, 2 year old Finn and 3 month old Tate.

Bella & Phinneas with Jason and Marcie Humphries

It is estimated that 52 percent of all households in America have pets and although Bella and Phinneas are two very happy English Labs, pictured with their family, there is an increasing number of pets that are homeless and available for adoption. Jason Humphries, owner of Bella and Phinneas…and Pet Supplies Plus, offers advice for people thinking about getting or giving a pet as a holiday gift: “Families need to think about the well being of the pet for the life of the pet. Think about their

medical expenses, exercise, nutrition, spay/neutering…everything. This should not be a decision made on a whim.” Because there are so many pets in need of homes in shelters throughout the community, he doesn’t want to rule out taking in a pet as a holiday gift, as long as it’s a family decision. When the snow starts falling, Jason reminds pet owners to use pet-safe snow removal products, such as Safe Paws, for melting ice on your walkways. Always keep fresh water out for your pets and never leave them out in the cold, whether in your yard or in a parked car. Jason proudly works with several local pet charities, including making regular pet food donations to the Hartford Food Pantry. Providing the community with healthy, reliable pet friendly supplies and services has been Jason’s mission for almost 20 years. Known as ‘the neighborhood retailer’, Jason explains they take care of their neighbors with the best products at great prices. “We even have carry-out service, where we’ll carry bags right out to your car!” With almost 9,000 square feet and over 60,000 products, Pet Supplies Plus is more of a grocery store for holistic and health food supplies for pets. If you are looking for virtually any brand, chances are good that they will have it. For

example, in a regular grocery store, Fancy Feast, the number 1 selling cat food in the world typically carries 12 flavors. “In our store, we have 57 flavors!” he says. Everything you need for your dog or cat can be found at the store, including some small mammals and reptiles, such as fresh water fish, bunnies, and iguanas. “We don’t sell dogs or cats,” he explains, “but we promote local adoption agencies for new pets. We also have licensed vets and technicians that visit the store for affordable vaccines.” “There is a full supply of gift ideas for pets now throughout the holiday season,” Jason says, noting that business picks up this time of year because even non-pet owners shop for their pet-lover friends. “We have a wide selection of Christmas and Hanukkah themed toys for dogs and cats, as well as a great apparel selection and our exclusive ‘made in America’ section of rawhide products.” Jason opened the first New England franchise back in 1996, and was the youngest franchisee at the time, being just 27 years old. “My wife, Marcie and I were living in Michigan when I was introduced to Jack Barry, the original founder of Pet Supplies Plus. I had been contemplating a career change and I saw this as a good opportunity.


We came out to Connecticut on a fluke and loved it. We’ve lived here in West Hartford ever since!” Soon after the grand opening of the West Hartford store, and one in Manchester, he opened several more stores around the state. Most recently, last month, he opened another store in Wethersfield. But it doesn’t stop there, as Jason has his sights on more locations throughout middle Connecticut and the shoreline. Between his stores, Jason employs more than 150 team associates, assuring an extremely knowledgeable, fully trained staff available at every location. Pet Supplies Plus is located in West Hartford at Bishops Corner, 2480 Albany Avenue. Open Mon-Sat 9-9, and Sundays 10-6. www.petsuppliesplus.com “Marcie and I have always had a love for animals. I remember my first childhood pet was Dickens, a Yorkshire Terrier.” Now, Jason, Marcie and their two teen daughters, Stephanie and Ilana share their home with Bella and Phinneas, as well as 2 cats, Americat and Ashley.

Sally & Shelby with Dr.Lauren Mascola & family

Sally and Shelby are two very appreciative rescue dogs. They have found the perfect family! A mom and dad with three active hockey-playing boys…life couldn’t be better! And to top off their lucky charmed life, mom is an animal doctor! Dr. Lauren Mascola, of Pet Care Veterinary Services, says she was one of those girls who always had the dream of someday becoming a veterinarian. “I definitely was a child who loved animals but I wasn’t sure I could do it.” She explains, “I went on to be a psychology major at UConn but didn’t love that. One summer I worked at an animal shelter in Nantucket and fell in love with the idea.” From there, she enrolled at Tufts Veterinary School and eventually captured her dream. Lauren has been a veterinarian now for over 17 years, taking over her Pet Care clinic, here in West Hartford, in 2005. “It’s important to give your pets special attention during the holiday season,” the doctor reminds us, “dietary indiscretion is much more prevalent during this time.

Holiday plants, decorations and party food platters should be kept away from pets so they are not ingested. Put lights up a bit higher on your Christmas tree to keep your cats away from them. Also, I don’t recommend tinsel or sparkly garland, which can cause intestinal blockages if pets chew on them. Keep in mind that pets sometimes drink the water from the tree, which may cause it to dry out quickly, leading to a fire hazard.” The holiday season is a time when many families welcome guests, who may feed your dog food he’s not used to. Food allergies in pets are also on the rise. Be careful and diligent with pet food choices. Never feed them grapes, raisins or onions which can be hazardous to their health. Uncooked cookie dough and chocolate can also be harmful to an animal’s digestive system. Lauren suggests all pet owners keep the toll free phone number to the Animal Emergency Control Center handy, 1-800-213-6680 in case of any unforeseen pet emergencies.

Giving a pet as a holiday gift only works if the whole family is on board with it. “You can’t surprise somebody with a pet,” she states, “Do your research ahead of time. Know what kind of pet your family can handle. Parents of younger children need to be aware that they will be the ones who take care of it. But, that said, we should remind people that are many animals in shelters right now that need homes.” Pet Care Veterinary Services, located at 64 Raymond Road in West Hartford.www.petcarevetwh.com Thinking back to her childhood, Lauren fondly remembers her very first family pets, “Max”, a Doberman and “Cinderella”, a Weimarana, and has made sure her own children would also experience the joy of family pets. Lauren and her husband, John Swift have been married for 16 years, and with their 3 sons, Cooper, Baur, and Easton, they share their home with Sally and Shelby, as well as a cat named Dory. n


byLydia Brown

As easy as A-B-C! Aruba, Bonaire, and Curacao.

phot

ogra

phy b

y BI

GST

Okc

pHO

TO.c

OM

Now that the weather has turned cold with a daily chance of snow…you are probably already thinking that by January you just might be ready to escape

and exchange it all for a stretch of warm sun, sand and tropical breezes, holding your Kindle for a fun beach read. To make your decision easier, I have com-piled an escape list to guarantee you a warm getaway this winter! If you are planning to travel right after the holidays or some time in January/early February, you definitely have to consider a few specific islands. The Bahamas, Bermuda and some of the Western Caribbean can actually be cold in January. I have been to Freeport in the Bahamas in January when they saw their first snowfall and sat with

my sweater on in Nassau during April. Early January in Cancun can actually be 65 degrees! So where do you go? You head south to the ABC islands of the Leeward Antil-les (southern chain of the lesser Antilles) comprised of Aruba, Curacao and Bonaire. The islands are affiliated with the Nether-lands but self governed for many years now. You are pretty much guaranteed 80 degree weather or better, warm water, white powder beaches and a variety of hotels and resorts ranging from bed and breakfast and boutique to all inclusive resorts. The island of Bonaireis known for its reefs and therefore is a per-fect place for diving, whereas Curacao, hassome diving and beaches but is more known for a great European flare in its downtown area of Willemstad and some fabulous res-taurants. Aruba (the most visited and Ameri-

Travel Tips

canized island) boasts white sand beaches and comfortable trade-winds that never stop making it truly inviting.

Aruba is the most popular of the three islands and becoming very congested. The first time I visited Aruba in the 1970’s, there were only 4 hotels. Today there are more than 25 resorts strung across Eagle and Palm Beaches. The downtown area of Oranjestad is like a mini Miami Beach, with great shops and restaurants. I can almost guarantee you will come back from Aruba with a tan. Aruba is a desert climate and rarely sees rain. There is a hotel for everyone: the new Riu Resort is the ultimate “all inclusive experience” while one of the original properties, the Divi Divi (low rise on Eagle Beach) gives a true island experi-ence. Aruba has many time-share properties as well as the high-end resorts (Hyatt, Westin

Aru

ba r

esor

ts, B

onai

re sn

orke

ling,

and

Isla

nd e

xplo

ratio

n.

• Guarantee warm weather in mid-winter...head south to the ABC islands of the Leeward Antilles, comprised of Aruba, Bonaire, and Curacao.• Bonaire is known for its reefs and therefore a perfect place for diving!• Curacao, is more known for a great European flare!• Aruba (the most visited and Americanized island) boasts white sand beaches and comfortable trade-winds that never stop making it truly inviting!• Bring your passport. Only the U.S.Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico are exempt from the passport requirement.

TRAVEL


and Marriott) so there truly is something for everyone here. It’s not a sight-seeing island, per se, but rather a place to really relax. It’s got warm sun, beautiful water, a very educated populous, and all the amenities you could ask for: golf, world class spas, casinos, fabulous shopping, great dining, excellent water sports and incredible deep sea fishing. The natural trade-winds also make for some of the finest sailing in the Caribbean, as well. Aruba truly has something for everyone.

Bonaire is the smallest of the three ABC islands and is the island that is most known for its scuba and snorkeling. Bonaire’s economy is mainly based on tourism. There are few sandy white beaches as the island is surrounded by reefs that are easily acces-sible from the shore. When you see white, its actually not sand but salt! It is renowned for being one of the top scuba-diving locations in the world and rightly so. Bonaire’s license plates carry the logo Divers Paradise (in Eng-lish). Bonaire is also consistently recognized as one of the best destinations for snorkeling. Wind-surfers also make up a strong group of island tourists, as the east side of the island (facing the Caribbean Sea) has the large

waves and wind gusts needed for windsurf-ing. Lac Bay, in the southeast is shallow yet windy, and hence is considered an excellent place for intermediate sailors to improve their skills. There are mainly time-share re-sorts here and a few small bed and breakfast properties, so if you are more into five-star resorts, this island is not for you. Most resorts here have on-site dive shops and the rest are affiliated with a dive operation. Alas, you will need a passport to fly to the Caribbean these days (only the U. S. Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico are exempt from the

passport requirement) so update your current one if needed. Don’t be left unprepared if you suddenly want to escape!

Curacao is a medium-sized island with a focus beyond tourism. The main city of Wil-lemstad has a justifiably famous, beautiful and historic harbor with its European influence and pontoon bridge. Isolated beaches scat-tered around the island offer some of the best snorkeling and diving anywhere. It’s a good island to explore by jeep, as well. While the beaches are smaller, the weather is still lovely and it’s a bit more intriguing to me than Aruba, since I am not really a beach person. Curacao was chosen as one of the best 3 locations for snorkeling and diving and macro-marine life by the readers of Scuba Diving Magazine last year. The people are charming and well edu-cated, offering visitors an enjoyable visit. n

Lydia [email protected] American Express TravelWest Hartford (860) 523-5224

Curacao reefs.


recognition Radiant

by Lisa Lelasphotography by Jane and Michael Shauck, Iris photography

Local jeweler, John Green appointed to International Position


ohn Green, of Lux, Bond & Green, appears to have gemstones in his DNA. He is a certified gemologist appraiser and now embraces yet an-other prestigious title, as he is named the Chairman of the Board of Gover-nors of the Gemological Institute of America. As one of the country’s lead-ing experts in the field of diamonds and colored stones, his selection really comes as no surprise. The GIA (Gemological Institute of America) is a non-profit worldwide organization, known as the leading source for education, research and laboratory services for gemstones. Es-tablished in 1931, the GIA is considered the authority on diamonds, colored stones and pearls. “It’s the number one source in the world for rating a gemstone,” John explains, “Any gem you see auctioned at Christies or Sotheby’s is usually ac-companied by an official GIA report.” World headquartered in Carlsbad, California, the GIA has other offices throughout the world, including New York City and Hong Kong. “Not all jewelers are gemologists, although many of the better ones are,” he says, “Like in any profession, the more knowledge you have the better you can help clients. Most of us in the jewelry profession understand the need and took correspondence or resi-dency programs offered through the GIA to become a gemologist.” The GIA offers Graduate Gem-ologists degrees, as well as individual courses of study, such as learning about diamonds or colored stones. After college, John went to California to take classes, full time at GIA. Even today, as a certified gemologist, he is required to take annual exams to keep up with changes, since there are always new dis-

coveries and new gemstone treatments. John has been a member of the GIA board since 2008. There are 16 board members, from all over the world, such as Hong Kong, Israel and Dubai. He is only one of three retail-ers on the board…the rest are com-prised of other experts in the industry as well as experts in the fields of compliance, finance, education and research. “We have two in-person board meetings each year. One is always held in Carlsbad and the other in various locations around the world. This year we met in Botswana, Africa…the larg-est diamond producing country in the world.” John was born and raised in this profession. “We are the fourth genera-tion in our family business. In 1898, my great-grandfather, known as M.A. Green, opened up our first storefront in Waterbury. Interestingly, in years prior to that, he originally started in the business selling jewelry from a horse and cart!” The second generation of Greens came to Hartford in 1932 and took over a company called, at the time, Lux Bond & Lux Jewelers. In 1933 it became Lux Bond & Green, and in the 1960’s, after John’s dad bought a store called Philip H. Stevens (sellers of fine china, glass and jewelry) and merged the two stores into one, it became ‘Lux Bond Green & Stevens’, located on Pratt Street, eventually turning into Lux Bond & Green. “I was always intrigued with jewelry and gemstones,” he explains, “at 7 years old, I started out as a gift wrapper in the family’s store. If I wasn’t in school, I was helping out at the store.”

Radiant

“Our company and our family

have been leaders in the jewelry

industry. We are passionate about

it and are lucky enough that the

industry has recognized us for

what we do.”

• GIA is the number one source in the world for rating a gemstone. “Any gem you see auctioned at Christies or Sotheby’s is always accompanied by an official GIA report.”

• John Green is the fourth generation of the family business.

J


Currently Lux Bond & Green stores are in 8 locations, six in Connecticut and two in the Boston area (they are the of-ficial jewelry sponsor of the Boston Red Sox). Their flagship store is on LaSalle Road in West Hartford center. “Even with 8 stores, we like being a ‘family business serving a local commu-nity’,” he says. John and his wife, Norma

Jean, have four kids, Dan, Debbie, Allie and Charlie. “Our company and our family have been leaders in the jewelry industry. We are passionate about it and are lucky enough that the industry has recognized us for what we do. We are helping the world, one community at a time,” he says referring to much of

the world profits from the diamond mining industry given right back to the people of Africa. “A lot of good happens with profits made from diamonds, whether here in our own community or around the world.” So, what’s trending for this year’s holiday season? John says colored stones are very much back this year. “A woman wearing reds, pinks, greens or blues…it’s very much a part of her fashion wardrobe.” But, there are some jewelry items that are forever timeless. Lux Bond & Green is the #1 diamond engagement store in all of New Eng-land. “We always keep a full supply of good quality diamonds and settings. While we do have bigger inventory dur-ing the holiday season, we are pretty consistent throughout the year.” Also, this month, you’ll find many special holiday gift items, such as Santa cuff links and many specials under $100 celebrating the season. “The old slogan of my great-grand-father was ‘M.A. Green-Famous for Diamonds’. We continue to keep that tradition!” n

Knowledgable tips to help you shop this season...Gold is a perfect metal in jewelry be-cause it will never rust, tarnish, or corrode, and it is very strong. Furthermore, gold is extremely malleable, allowing it to be made into virtually any shape. Because of this, gold jewelry comes in all shapes and sizes.

Platinum is pure, an expression of integ-rity, a reflection of inner truth. platinum’s purity endows it with a brilliant white luster. due to this luster, platinum helps to reflect the true radiance of diamonds.

Pure silver, also called fine silver, is relative-ly soft, very malleable, and easily damaged so it is commonly combined with other metals to produce a more durable product.

Each setting has its own personality. knowing your way around these selections will help you determine which setting suits your personal style and tastes. Find out more about settings at:http://lbgreen.com/Education/Settings


Exploring the Art of Wine Pairing with Holiday foods

phot

ogra

phy b

y IS

TOc

kpH

OTO

.cO

M

by ertan Sener

Eat, Drink and Be Merry!

WINE

Say “cheers” for a spectacular holiday gathering! There is a lot of planning that hap-pens before saying the word “cheers” to make it super successful. Let me help you

select a few perfect pairings for this Holiday Season. The Holidays are warm, festive and filled with great food. Because of the sea-son, holiday wines can be bigger, heartier wines that stand up to traditional flavors like turkey, currants, cranberries, prime rib and other holiday delights, whatever they may be. While it can seem daunting to select the perfect wine, there are some choices that go especially well with holiday foods. These wines might include medium and full bodied reds with lots of spice, fes-tive and sparkling wines, and even some richer whites. If it’s your turn to host that holiday gathering, take a few pointers so you can choose wines that should make you the ‘host with the most!’ With the wide range of foods and flavors at the holidays, providing some guidelines to food and wine pairing for the holidays with specific applications should make wine selection a little less confusing and more enjoyable. Here are the key concepts to think about when pairing: 1) Versatility 2) Consider texture not just flavor, and 3) Whether you want to compliment or con-trast with the flavor of the dish. There are many wines that will be able to pair with any certain dish, let’s just remember to keep the options open. There is never one perfect choice, but there are choices that will work better than others. Let’s explore a few meal courses and see which concept works best.

APPETIZERS and hors d’oeuvres are always in abundance at holiday gather-ings. These fun little hand to mouth bites are perfect to keep the crowd happy. What wine you ask? Well, versatility is the key. Bubbles, bubbles, bubbles! Champagne, of course is the king of bubbles and would be most welcome at any party. There are other choices that will also put a sparkle in your glass. Cava from Spain, Prosecco from Italy, any number of wines from France la-beled Crémant, fine sparkling wines from a number of regions in France. Here is a list of a few of the Crémant wines areas and how it will be listed on the label. Crémant de Alsace, Crémant de Bordeaux, Crémant de Bourgogne, Crémant de Die, Crémant du Jura, Crémant de Limoux, Crémant de Loire and Crémant de Luxembourg. Bubbles are refresh-ing and cleanse the palate, getting it ready for that next new little bite of bursting flavor.

CHEESE yOu ASK? Yes please. If lactose doesn’t work for you, feel free to skip this section…or take a Lactaid. Well, this pair-ing is no laughing matter. Cheese, with all its beautiful varieties can be very difficult to pair. My usual go-to is white, white, white (except for hard aged cheeses that call for a red.) I like it when a wine con-trasts with a cheese. For example, a rich creamy cheese like Camembert works very nicely with a wine that has a little crispness with some brighter acidity. I like the way it cuts through that beauti-

ful fattiness. A wine with a little sugar like Riesling

is great for some of those creamy, salty blues. Yum! To

quote the great Maitre Fromo-

gier, Max Mc-

Because of the season, holiday wines can be bigger, heartier wines

that stand up to traditional flavors like turkey, currants,

cranberries, prime rib and other holiday delights.


Calman, “My first instinct is to get away from traditional notions about pairings. I like to promote pairings of lesser-known, less “serious” or ponderous, but nonethe-less delightful wines with cheeses. Saven-nières, Pinot Blanc, and Albariño are good examples.” Fantastic word to live by. Let’s use this thought for the next course.

THE MAIN COuRSE is the main event at most holiday gatherings. Which will be the contenders for wine? Selecting the right wine for the main course is as simple as thinking ‘compliment the dish’. Think about the texture as much as the flavor. Match the textures and fla-vors and the two will dance nicely on the palate. A simple solution to pairing wine with the main course is asking yourself 4 questions: 1) Does the food overpower the wine? 2) Does the wine overpower the food? 3) When the wine and food are combined in the mouth, what tircheary flavor does it create? And finally, 4) is the flavor created palette pleasing? Done.

Ertan S. Sener, wine educator, has been seen in Wine Spectator Magazine, and is the buyer/managerat West Side Wines & Spirits. 860-233-1241. westsidewines.com.

CabinetErtan’s wine

• Key concepts to consider when pairing: 1) Versatility 2) Texture (not just flavor), and 3) Whether you want to compliment or contrast with the flavor of the dish. • Champagne is the king of bubbles, most welcome at any party but there are other choices that will also put a sparkle in your glass. • Cheese, with all its beautiful varieties can be very difficult to pair. My usual go-to is white, white, white!

FOR DESSERT, the simplest solution is to choose a wine as sweet as the dessert. The sweetness of the dessert subtracts the sweetness of the wine. One thing is for sure…the holidays are

upon us. Whether you are hosting or have to bring a bottle of something to add to the spirits of the occasion, think pairing and all the possibilities. There are no hard and fast rules to the art of pairing. So, I hope we have touched upon some of the ideas I like to run through when finding that perfect pair! I hope this will only add to the enjoyment, no matter where you are planning to spend these special times and that you are with the people you love, friends that make you laugh and wine that will pair and enhance the experience. Al-ways remember, the bottle of wine is only as good as the people you share it with. Happy Holidays! n

WINE


Best Parking and LargestIndoor Waiting Area in Town!

Dedicated to Service for over 50 years

1084 New Britain Ave.West Hartford • (860) 561-3800

sheehan_hil_exterior_QP:sheehan_hil_AdsforDisk 4/4/12 2:39 PM Page 1


For the Love


How a local bakery led one couple to their dream of retiring in West Hartford!

of a Cupcake

It all began with a simple chocolate cupcake. A coupon I had clipped was calling my name: ‘come and get a freebie from a West Hartford bakery’. Who could guess that a

tasty treat would act as divine intervention and lead me to

where I am living today? I began my quest to find A

Little Something Bakery. I was totally distracted

by how cute the Park Street neighborhood

was. There were an-tique shops burst-

ing at the seams with exotic

treasures nestled

against coffee

shops and narrow New York style restaurants. I glanced twice at a theater marquee and its enticing listings for live performances. An old silver diner and a huge ice cream shop rounded out the block. It had really changed over the last thirty-five years, since the days I used to visit Mom who had worked nearby at the credit union. I remember thinking how close it was to beautiful Blueback Square, and yet so intriguingly different. For me it was familiar, like an old pair of forgotten shoes you stumble on at the very back of the closet. From a distance, I had always been a big fan of West Hartford, even before Kiplinger’s la-beled it as a “best town in America”. Growing up in New Britain, my girlfriends and I would often window shop in the Center. Pleasant memories of trendy shoe boutiques and chocolatiers signing handmade Easter eggs immediately came to mind. My husband and I had tried buying a home here long ago, but soaring prices in the real estate market kept that dream from becoming a reality. Today I made a promise to return and plunder my way through this quaint Park Road area. My mission now was to collect that cupcake, buy a variety of bakery goods as a litmus test, and deliver them to my shut-in parents.

The variety and sweet smells inside the bakery made a quick selection almost

impossible. A cinnamon sugary thing called a ‘dirt bomb’ seemed to be the

most curious of all. The question hung in the yeast-scented air:

‘could the items taste as good as they looked?’ Surely even

the name “A Little Some-

thing” was a dare in disguise. Who could walk away from here on a cold February day with just a little something? Mom was a better judge of bakeries than I was. She was an accomplished innovative baker herself. Most of our family vacations included, what we called ‘the adventure of the secret bakery,’ like a sub-title listed on the back cover of a yellow Nancy Drew book. Mom would always scout out new bakeries in our travels and would return to the car with something warm and delicious for the family. So, naturally that afternoon, when I delivered the plain white pastry box to my parents, they instantly dove in! We tasted everything and each of us found a different something to love. The baked goods were so smooth, so creamy, so crunchy and yummy! Mom gave her seal of approval, along with an additional order if I was ever in that neighborhood again. A week later my car found its way back to “Little Something”. I needed to bring a gift to a sick friend, but more importantly, I needed to taste those cake balls again! Today I had the time to drink it all in. It was so cozy pink and pretty but not pretentious. It gave me the feel-ing I was standing next to mom’s old stove just waiting for something to appear. It took me back to a time before preservatives and plastic wrapped bread. Back to basics. After making my selection, I found myself unexplainably swallowing hard, and trying to follow the advice my daughter had given me long ago. “Just say it out loud and offer it up to the universe.” Beth had always advised me. Softly, so no one in the bakery could hear, I

by cindy Scanlonphotography by Amy B. Melvin

Thanks to a

coupon and a

cupcake and a little

something from the universe, we found the perfect place to settle into

our new role as grandparents and soon-to-be retirees.

#HomeSweetHome

For the Love


made my confession, “I want to live close to this bakery,” I whispered. Could it be possible? I thought. My hus-band and I were empty nesters and we were in the process of downsizing. A little voice inside murmured, ‘what if we found an apart-ment to rent in a two-family house close-by?’ We had already taken an educated gamble by buying our retirement home on Cape Cod while the prices were plummeting there. What if we sold the McMansion in CT and were able to rent reasonably in West Hart-ford while we worked our way towards re-tirement? Normally that would not be risky business but in today’s market it really was a gamble. The same wave that brought crashing prices to the Cape was about to swallow us

up whole. Could we swing it financially and satisfy one of our long lost dreams to live

in this charming little city? On my next visit to my new favor-

ite bakery, I quietly muttered to the clerk:

“I want to live close to this bakery.” She smiled politely

but said nothing. What pos-sessed me to do that? Ev-

eryday I became seem-ingly consumed with

the daunting task of fengshuing, paint-

ing and staging our oversized

colonial for selling. What

a full-time produc-

tion for just

two

people. And yet, this bakery seemed like a magnet drawing me closer to West Hart-ford with each visit. Too embarrassed to explain, I just ran out. The tide was now turning on us, as we, the buyers, became the sellers. We prepared ourselves for a long, possible two year battle in trying to sell. Surprisingly, in June, the perfect wave came in. The weather Gods were with us! The mercury topped 90 de-grees, and the turquoise of our built-in pool worked its magic. By Father’s Day we had a solid contract after our home had only been listed for a few weeks. But the devil is in the details. The fine print specified: ‘closing to take place within four weeks.’ The buyer wanted to spend their summer by our pool. The pressure was on to find a home that met all of our needs and that of Clancy, our golden doodle…allowing us to move in in less than thirty days. The hunt was on. So, at the next bakery run, I decided to be bold. I uttered my request loudly, for all to hear: “I WANT TO LIVE IN WEST HART-FORD CLOSE TO A LITTLE SOMETHING BAKERY!” I yelled. I exited quickly, envel-oped by silence. To help the dream along, we found a realtor specializing in West Hartford rentals, who quickly showed us a couple of properties that were just a five minute walk away. Location,

location, location isn’t all it is cracked up to be when there is peeling paint or wob-

bly stairs. We consulted Google maps to help triangulate how close to the

center we could afford to live. We drove street-by-street searching

for rental signs for the perfect

two family charmer, like the ones our grand-parents had lived in. Our timing was off. Our goals seemed as aligned as shooting stars in the summer sky. Nothing opened up. On the hottest day of the year last July, when everyone was warned to stay hydrated for fear of heat stroke, we had to pack up our suburban home. Moving close-by in Condo-city to a small apartment in safe suburbia felt more like defeat than victory. Friends congratulated us on the miraculous sale of our home in a single season but somehow it all tasted bittersweet. We fed our cravings for a more bustling city-like atmosphere by making weekly visits to West Hartford for dinner with friends and of course a run to “our” bakery. Fall brought me back to my classroom with the strongest allergy attacks ever. In September the doctor called to confirm my worst fears. I was severely allergic to the invisible pet dander in the new apartment. The next day, I opened an email from our agent that would change my life forever. There was a listing so good that I called my husband before my students had even left my class. Within an hour we did a quick drive- by and made sure we were the first applicants to see it the next day. “I want to live close to my bakery” I screamed to the universe, as we drove by it the next morning. The charming Victorian duplex was just a half-mile away. It was built in 1890 but had been restored and updated. It had not one but two floors and a front and back porch. The master bedroom was the largest I had ever seen with five oversized windows fac-ing east. It was also within walking distance of a church, the library and many of the best restaurants in West Hartford. It had that feeling of home from the moment we saw it! By October our dream of living in West Hartford, and moving back to the city became the final piece of our puzzling lives. Now we are able to enjoy the wonderful outdoors of Cape Cod and the bustling sweet life of our favorite little city, West Hartford. Thanks to a coupon and a cupcake and a little something from the universe, we found the perfect place to settle into our new role as grandparents and soon-to-be retirees. Back to basics and loving it! n

“Just say it out

loud and offer it up

to the uni-verse....Softly,

so no one in the bakery could

hear, I made my confession, “

I want to live close to this bakery,”

I whispered.4� westhartfordmagazine.com

Superior Steaks • Fresh SeafoodStore Made Deli Salads • RibsKabobs • Black Angus Burgers

Native Produce • Catering

Hall’s Market:Your BBQ Headquarters since 1935

View our menu online at www.hallsmarket.net

331 Park Road, West Hartford CT 860.232.1075

Assorted Cookies, Cakes, Cupcakes and more!

Check out our photo gallery atALittleSomethingBakery.com

335 Park Road, West Hartford CT860.586.8711

Q&AGet to know Silkworm’s Owner, Erica...

What is your background?I grew up in Torrington and decided after high school that I wanted to move to New York City. I was admitted into the Fashion Institute of Technology and never looked back. The fashion,energy and fast pace of the city was invigorating. After graduating I was lucky to be a part of the BloomingdalesBuying Team. It was a fantastic experience, but I missed the one-on-one with clients. After working at Armani Collezioni and Dana Buchman, I decided to return to Connecticut where I met my husband Nick. While living in Essex, a local clothing boutique, Silkworm of Essex Village, was for sale. I jumped at the opportunity to own the store. After seeing the need for classic contemporary and preppy clothing in the Hartford area, I decided to open a second location in West Hartford at the intersection of Farmington Avenue and Lasalle Road in 2011.

In a sentence of two, describe Silkworm and what its all about:

Silkworm follows lifestyles more so than brands. Our women arestudents, mothers, executives, and retired. They travel, entertain, are very busy and need a wardrobe that accommodates their multifunctioning lifestyles.

...We have become a destination for gift givers with our complimentary signature gift wrapping.

SilkwoRM


Follow them: Find us at: www.SilkwormOnline.com or on: Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Pinterest.

Whats new with Silkworm?Some really exciting things are happening at Silkworm! We launched our online store in September as well as a lifestyle blog. We feature local models for the website and clients for our blog. We are now just a click away! We are enhancing our offerings to fulfill a growing need for our younger clients. We will be bringing in competitively priced contemporary and preppy clothing and accessories. Currently our accessories start at only $10! We have become a destination for gift givers with our complimentary signature gift wrapping. We are looking forward to the Holiday Season and have some special Silkworm events planned for our customers!!

Why is it important to shop local?By shopping local, you are supporting not just the business, but the entire community. We also like to support the community by donating to local hospitals, and other businesses.

What does your blog focus on and why do you feel it’s important?We feature our clients and local woman who share a passion for fashion. We all love our clothing and accessories and there are so many different ways to wear them. By featuring them, we learn different ways to wear our clothes and we also make a connection to who they are. n

SPOTLIGHTph

otog

raph

y by

cH

eyN

ey B

Arr

IeA

u.

Mod

els:

AN

GeL

IcA

SpA

NO

S, B

eTH

JOH

NSO

N, a

nd k

ArA

dO

kAS.

Erica Morizio, Owner of Silkworm Boutique.


We all know that having a ‘good hair day’ pretty much assures us of a ‘good day’ in general!

Quite simply, when we look better, we feel better. So much of our attitude and outlook for the day is directly reflected upon how we feel about ourselves at the time! So how do we face this crazy, busy holiday season head-on with a bright and bubbly attitude? Making sure our hair looks great, of course! Tickled pink to dish on holiday hair for any and every occasion, I’d like to of-fer my top three hair-do’s of the season. Whether you opt to have your hair profes-sionally blow-dried or take your strands into your own hands, they are easy, no-fuss remedies for taming wild hair into ‘heavenly hair’ this holiday season!

1 Since time is of the es-sence for all

of us this holiday season, we want to be able to look good in as little time as possible! Buns, braids and ponies are a great twist on the classic up-do and just as easy to do in just a few minutes. Don’t worry about making your cinched hair perfect because even messy side buns, tousled fishtail braids and loose low ponytails make the list!

2 Everyone is crushing this season on curls and waves! A sleek blow-out with soft waves is so glamorous.

Add extra volume and layers of head-bands for a l’il va-va-voom at your next holiday party!

3 The faux bob has been all over the runway and we’re obsessed with that chic look! Curl your hair, tease

it a bit and then tuck your hair under and pin. Add a brooch or sparkly clip to make this style super special! So, next time you are in a time pinch to get to a special holiday event and want to do something special with your hair, remember it doesn’t have to be compli-cated. Try these tips for a perfect hair-do. After all, perfect hair equals perfect confi-dence! n

Stacey Cohen aka @ScarlettOHairFranchise partner of Blo West Hartford, 71 Memorial Road. 203-213-5148 [email protected]

Looking your best under the Mistletoe this Season!

Hair

by Stacey cohen

phot

ogra

phy b

y BIG

STO

ckp

HO

TO.c

OM

BEAUTY

Heavenly

“Blo, North America’s Original Blow Dry Bar, is commit-ted to combing through the coif ranks and changing the world one blo out at a time!”

BEAUTY


In tIme for the

Holidays, we took five trends

most sought after this winter and

paired them with a very sought

after blogger - did we mention

she’s local? Christina DeFilippo

is the fashion maven and editor

behind OhSoGlam.com. As

personal style blogs continue to

be a huge influence on the fashion

industry, we couldn’t wait to sit

down and chat with a big name

blogger who happens to live in

our very own neighborhood. Let

us introduce you to the ultimate

Glam Girl Next Door....

Fa

shio

n B

log

ger

:

Written & Styled by Bridgette Larcada

photography by Manny vargas

Assistant Styling by Anna B. Beyer

FASHION is brought to you by:


FASHION

OhSoGlam.Glam girl next door.

Lilla P Sweater ($146), Reindeer Necklace ($54) at Kimberly Boutique. Open Ring, Knot Ring & Pyramid Ring ($39.50) at Banana Republic. Elinor Gay Skirt ($31.50) & Ferragamo Loafers ($15) at The Clothes Horse Thrift.

On The Rack: BK&Co, The Clothes Horse Thrift, Kimberly Boutique & Lux Boutique.


the day.” She is humbled by the popu-larity her blog has attained, but more exposure leads to more emails and opportunities. Since this is not yet her fulltime job, she often feels guilty for not responding quick enough. On a positive note she says the best part of her blogs success is the realization that she is able to achieve anything she puts her mind to. Well said! Due to the Christina’s talents she has attained multiple sponsors, her first and dearest to her heart being a clothing company, Alley & Chris. Last year she was invited to Lucky Mag-azine’s Fashion and Beauty Blogger (FABB) conference with a pre-selec-tion process for nearly 300 slots, it is an invite most bloggers strive to attain. Attendees are chosen from all over the country and are met with the best in-fluencers in fashion, beauty and enter-tainment. Speaking panels have been filled with everyone from Drew Barry-more to Rachel Zoe. Swoon! Recently, she was invited to New York Fashion Week where she attended multiple shows and events, although she says she was most inspired while standing in Lincoln Center watching the fash-

ion elite come and go. It is also an op-portune time to network while making oneself know and be known. Currently, Christina is working on a national proj-ect with Target stores in which she is tasked to style falls trends and pieces, check out her blog to see the latest trend. Local West Hartford is were Chris-tina’s heart lies. As home owners not far from the Center, Raja and Christina couldn’t be more proud. She is current-ly working with Silkworm Boutique on a special project for the store’s blog. Christina is also quick to name quite a few local stores in which she loves to find inspiration and shop. As a couple, Christina and Raja love to wine and dine at places like Vinted or Cuvée, and enjoy nights out with friends at Bricco or Bartaco. Next time you are wonder-ing the Center or Blue Back Square be sure to look out for this wonderful couple, they would love to meet you as they continue to immerse themselves in the community.

A blogger is a person who has

or updates a blog. A blog is a platform on

which informational writings are placed.

The blog has single handedly changed

the way people attain information on

the web and in turn it has changed the

way we express our thoughts, interests

and perspectives.

The topic of a blog may vary from

sports analytics to business law to

personal style. The level of success

when writing a blog relies solely on the

amount of views it receives on average

when compared to its competing blogs.

Soon, peer related blogs take notice,

sponsors come calling, event invites

start rolling in, and speaking events or

interviews are inevitable. Now, your

blog is highly relevant to your audience.

Such is the case with Christina

DeFilippo, author of OhSoGlam.

com. Not only has she gained industry

notoriety for her style blog, she also

happens to be a West Hartford resident.

And in my personal opinion; an awesome

personality you should get to know.

After, getting in contact with

Christina and finally finding common

ground in our schedules we managed

an intriguing interview and a successful

photoshoot, in which we showcased

some of fall and winter’s go-to trends.

This Connecticut born blogger started

OhSoGlam.com in September of 2011,

she had been a Pinterest lover and saw

quite a few stylish ladies with admirable

style blogs and thought she’d try it for

herself – good thing she did.

Christina is quick to praise her boy-

friend and photographer, Raja, without

whom she would have none of her stun-

ning looks photographed. Let it be known

that the quality of a blogs photographs

has a lot to do with its success, especially

if your platform is style or any creative art

for that matter. It’s this couples Canon

Rebel Camera with 50mm lens, Raja’s

keen eye, and Christina’s glam girl-next-

door outfits that get the job done.

By no means is maintaining a blog

an easy task, it’s not even a paying task

at first, but rather a hobby. Since start-

ing Oh So Glam, Christina has had to

put forth multiple afterhours of work,

on top of her regular 9 to 5 at Horizon

Marketing group. A job which she says

has only enriched her knowledge of all

things digital and social media related.

In Christina’s own words, “The hardest

part of running my blog is time manage-

ment. I need more hours in the day.” She

is humbled by the popularity her blog

has attained, but more exposure leads

to more emails and opportunities. Since

this is not yet her fulltime job, she often

feels guilty for not responding quickly

enough. On a positive note she says the

best part of her blog’s success is the re-

alization that she is able to achieve any-

thing she puts her mind to. Well said!

Due to Christina’s talents she has

attained multiple sponsors, her first

and dearest to her heart being a cloth-

ing company, Alley & Chris. Last year

she was invited to Lucky Magazine’s

Fashion and Beauty Blogger (FABB)

conference with a pre-selection process

for nearly 300 slots; it is an invite most

bloggers strive to attain. Attendees are

A blog has single handedly changed

the way we express our thoughts,

interests and perspectives.

chosen from all over the country and are

met with the best influencers in fashion,

beauty and entertainment. Speaking

panels have been filled with everyone

from Drew Barrymore to Rachel Zoe.

Swoon! Recently, she was invited to New

York Fashion Week where she attended

multiple shows and events, although she

says she was most inspired while stand-

ing in Lincoln Center watching the fash-

ion elite come and go. It is also an op-

portune time to network while making

oneself know and be known. Currently,

Christina is working on a national project

with Target stores in which she is tasked

to style falls trends and pieces, check out

her blog to see the latest trend.

Local West Hartford is where

Christina’s heart lies. As home owners

not far from the Center, Raja and Chris-

tina couldn’t be more proud. She is cur-

rently working with Silkworm Boutique

on a special project for the store’s blog.

Christina is also quick to name quite a

few local stores in which she loves to

find inspiration and shop. As a couple,

Christina and Raja love to wine and dine

at places like Vinted or Cuvée, and en-

joy nights out with friends at Bricco or

Bartaco. Next time you are wandering

the Center or Blue Back Square be sure

to look out for this wonderful couple;

they would love to meet you as they

continue to immerse themselves in the

community.



ion elite come and go. It is also an op-portune time to network while making oneself know and be known. Currently, Christina is working on a national proj-ect with Target stores in which she is tasked to style falls trends and pieces, check out her blog to see the latest trend. Local West Hartford is were Chris-tina’s heart lies. As home owners not far from the Center, Raja and Christina couldn’t be more proud. She is current-ly working with Silkworm Boutique on a special project for the store’s blog. Christina is also quick to name quite a few local stores in which she loves to find inspiration and shop. As a couple, Christina and Raja love to wine and dine at places like Vinted or Cuvée, and enjoy nights out with friends at Bricco or Bartaco. Next time you are wonder-ing the Center or Blue Back Square be sure to look out for this wonderful couple, they would love to meet you as they continue to immerse themselves in the community.

FASHION

BDBG Max Azria Blazer ($298) & Citizens of Humanity Coated Jean ($228) at Kimberly Boutique. Porto Blue Vest ($298), Fahrenheit Woven Earrings ($90) at BK&Co. Stateside T-Shirt ($66) at Silkworm Boutique. Suede Blue Loafers ($98) at Ann Taylor.

On The Rack: BK&Co, Banana Republic, The Clothes Horse & SIGHT.


Sanctuary Clothing Peplum Top ($82) & Kiss Kouture Pumps ($60) at Lux Boutique. Tolani Plaid Shirt ($120) at BK&Co. David Brooks Ltd Plaid Skirt ($7) at The Clothes Horse. C&S Style Beaded Bracelets ($175) & Susan Leone Spiked Cuff ($150) at Silkworm Boutique. FRYE Overnight Bag ($598) at Kimberly Boutique.

On The Rack: BK&Co, The Clothes Horse Thrift, Kimberly Boutique, Silkworm Boutique & StyleMint.


FASHION

She was most

inspired while

standing in Lincoln

Center watching

the fashion elite

come and go.

Bell by Alicia Bell Shirt ($213) at Silkworm Boutique. Floral Skirt ($89), Navy Fox Bracelet ($54) & Beaded Horse Bracelet ($48) at Ann Taylor. Tiffany & Fred Purse ($128) at BK&Co.

On The Rack: Banana Republic, Kimberly Boutique, Lux Boutique & Silkworm Boutique.



ion elite come and go. It is also an op-portune time to network while making oneself know and be known. Currently, Christina is working on a national proj-ect with Target stores in which she is tasked to style falls trends and pieces, check out her blog to see the latest trend. Local West Hartford is were Chris-tina’s heart lies. As home owners not far from the Center, Raja and Christina couldn’t be more proud. She is current-ly working with Silkworm Boutique on a special project for the store’s blog. Christina is also quick to name quite a few local stores in which she loves to find inspiration and shop. As a couple, Christina and Raja love to wine and dine at places like Vinted or Cuvée, and enjoy nights out with friends at Bricco or Bartaco. Next time you are wonder-ing the Center or Blue Back Square be sure to look out for this wonderful couple, they would love to meet you as they continue to immerse themselves in the community.Q: What are your favorite local

hangouts?

A: Cuvee, Vinted, BRICCO & bartaco

Q: What are your personal

favorite blogs?

A: Sincerely Jules (she emulates my

dress sense – it’s actually wearable) I

also met her and really like her. Atlan-

ticPacific, Song of Style, Blonde Salad

are a few more. Locally, I really love Ma-

rissa from Style Cusp and Lynzy from

Sparkling Footsteps.

Q: Where are your favorite

places to shop?

A: ZARA online - wish they had one

here! Michael Stars is very wearable ba-

sics. Along with H&M, Madewell and

Anthropologie.

Q: Are there any trends you

are particularly inspired by this

season?

A: Yes! The Military trend… or anything

camo. Leather is so great, especially for

the cooler seasons. I also love to mix

textures and prints.

Q: Any trends you are excited to

see go? A: I can’t pull off the harem pant (be-

lieve me I’ve tried), so I wouldn’t mind if

that trend left.

Q: What’s your favorite timeless

clothing item?

A: I actually have a few. First and fore-

most, my cowboy boots from my grand-

parents because I’m a huge country girl.

However this year I’d have to say my Ce-

line and Chanel Purses, which are life-

time investments to me.

Q: What beauty product can you

not live without?

A: Bare Minerals – pressed foundation.

And Benefit mascara.

Q: What are the last 5 things you

Googled?

A:- Kacy Musgrave (country music artist)

- Beauty tutorial

- Cat videos

- farm house tables

- fed ex and ups tracking n

Q & A:


FASHION

Milly Sweater ($395) by Silkworm Boutique. Greylin Leather Skirt ($95) at Kimberly Boutique. Gold Knot Necklace ($70) & Ankle Socks ($11) at Banana Republic. Mayer Vintage Purse ($12) at The Clothes Horse Thrift. Lola Heel ($89.98) by ShoeMint.com.

On The Rack: BK&Co, Kimberly Boutique, Lux Boutique & Silkworm.

phot

ogra

phy b

y BIG

STO

ckp

HO

TO.c

OM

FINANCE

by daniel casper, and Jane connery

Boomers must face the ‘sandwich generation-challenge’ head-on to secure a financial future!

B aby boomers are considered one of the wealthiest generations, but they are faced with a unique challenge: being sandwiched between caring

for their aging parents while supporting their own children. Additionally, they must plan financially to ensure their wealth lasts so they can continue to provide for their families while also ensuring their children will not be responsible to care for them during their retirement. The United States Census Bureau identi-fies a baby boomer as someone born during the demographic birth boom between 1946 and 1964. In Europe and North America, baby boomers are widely associated with privilege, as many grew up in a time of increasing affluence. In contrast, their parents’ generation did not attain the same level of wealth. As baby boomers make their way through their 40’s, 50’s and 60’s, their parents are aging and need assistance. Since most baby boomers have achieved financial success, they feel compelled to be accountable for their parents’ elderly care. One-third of Generation X and nearly half

of Generation Y now expect their parents or in-laws to rely on them for financial as-sistance at some point in their lives. Americans are living longer than ever before. Those reaching age 65 can now ex-pect to live another 18.6 years, and the 85+ population is projected to increase from 5.7 million in 2000 to 12.9 million in 2020. This demographic shift will result in an increased demand for elder care services and increasing pressure on families. Of those 70 years old or older who need help with personal care or routine aspects of daily life, the majority receive help from family members. Among the costs baby boomers have taken responsibility for are their parents’ living arrangements, healthcare, financial planning and estate planning. Not surprisingly, in 2009, more than four out of five younger boomers reported moderate to high levels of stress as a result of responsibilities to provide care to an older family member. In addition, baby boomers are financial-ly supporting their children throughout their various stages in life – whether buy-ing a car, paying college tuition or pur-chasing a home. However, without a solid

understanding of their family’s wealth, some members of the next generation may be ill-equipped to handle it. To en-sure their children’s long-term financial independence and understanding, baby boomers must prepare the next genera-tion to make informed financial choices through a solid financial education around wealth – what it means and how to handle it responsibly. A recent 2013 U.S. Trust Insights on Wealth and Worth Survey® revealed that a sizable portion of wealthy Americans appears to be of two minds about fiscal tutoring. Most respondents believed their children would benefit from discussions with a financial professional, but more than three-quarters of parents have a professional advisor who has not formed a relationship with their children. Talking about wealth and education enables children to develop the art of agree-ment and good decision- making, whether for investment opportunities, family expenses or something larger, such as the family’s philanthropic mission. If the parents feel uncomfortable having “the talk” about money with their children, they should uti-lize their financial advisors. Many financial

FinancialEmpowerment

�0 westhartfordmagazine.com

institutions offer assistance with this. For example, U.S. Trust’s Financial Empower-ment program was specifically created to help the next generation make informed financial decisions. The education program was developed for those in their twenties and thirties, tailoring the course to each family’s particular needs. This personalized approach makes the program a surprisingly powerful tool – all the more so because the training can be done online, where so many young adults spend their time anyway. The program can involve one-on-one sessions with a wealth specialist or in-group get-to-gethers for the entire family. Boomers must not only financially sup-port their children, but educate them on their financial futures, as well. By doing so and giving their children more indepen-dence, they may feel less “sandwiched.” Research demonstrates that as a genera-

tion, boomers have tended to avoid discus-sions surrounding long-term planning and do not adequately account for all of the important factors on retirement. Yet, one-in-seven middle-aged adults (15 percent) is providing financial support to both an aging parent and a child. Boomers must manage their finances and investments during their lifetime to ensure the wealth lasts through their retirement and beyond. To do this they need to establish trusts to provide financial security for themselves and their partners. Additionally, they must consider how to pass assets to future generations and the charities they care about. By making use of their financial profes-sionals, boomers can plan for the decisions they will face as they or a loved one age. Additionally, their counselors can provide guidance on opportunities to educate their children, such as the Financial Empower-

Daniel Casper is Managing Director, Wealth Planning Solutions Market Director, U.S. TrustJane Connery is Managing Director, Market Trust Director, U.S. Trust

U.S. Trust operates through Bank of America, N.A. and other subsidiaries of Bank of America Corporation. Bank of America, N.A., Member FDIC.

This content represents thoughts of the authors and does not necessarily represent the position of Bank of America or U.S. Trust.

ment program. By facing the “sandwich generation” challenge head on and partak-ing in financial planning, boomers can become confident and look forward to a secure financial future. n

This article is designed to provide general information about ideas and strategies. It is for discussion purposes only since the availability and effectiveness of any strategy is dependent upon your individual facts and circumstances. Always consult with your independent attorney, tax advisor, investment manager, and insurance agent for final recommendations and before changing or implementing any financial, tax, or estate planning strategy.

58% of wealthy parents are not fully confident their children will be well-prepared to handle a financial inheritance.

Have Coffeewith JimMeet Jim in personand get ANSWERS

CALL JIM TODAY!Direct: 860.838.6291

Visit: www.JimPapillo.com

(he’ll buy!)

“More than an agent, Jim is a seasoned advocate with the knowledge

and skills to protect your interests in the purchase or sale of real estate.”

Questions About Buying or Selling Real Estate?

Holiday 2013 west hartford magazine �1

MODERN TIRE MODERN TIRE MODERN TIRE MODERN TIRE MODERN TIREMODERN TIRE MODERN TIRE MODERN TIRE MODERN TIRE MODERN TIRE



Items Stolen from Vehicles.

Which item is most often stolen from vehicles in West Hartford?Is it: Stereo? Wheels? Air Bag? DVD System?Well, if you said stereo – you used to be right. But air-

bags have now surpassed stereos as the biggest target for theft in West Hartford – approximately 50,000 a year are

stolen across the country. New airbags cost about $1,000, but go for $50 to $200 on the black market in West Hartford.

Stolen airbags are making their way back into cars that have been in an accident. Of course, the danger to the consumer of having a stolen airbag installed is that you can never be sure what may have previously affected them and if they will work right when you need them.

Contact Modern Tire of West Hartford for more information about where to get your airbags checked or replaced.

There are reports that 1 in 25 airbag replacements are stolen or salvaged airbags – or no airbag is installed at all.

That is definitely one car part you don’t want to take a chance with, so Modern Tire of West Hartford recommends following these guidelines:

Use a reputable collision repair center that employs ASE certified mechanics (we can offer recommendations at Modern Tire of West Hartford).Inspect the invoice to ensure that the repair shop purchased the airbag from a manufacturer, dealer, or recycler. If you can inspect the airbag prior to installation, it should be packaged in a sealed container from the manufacturer.

You will see the SRS light (Supplemental Restraint System) when you first start your vehicle up. This tells you that the airbag system is activated. If you do not see the SRS light, there is likely a problem with the airbag system.

For more information, contact John at Modern Tire of West Hartford by calling 860.233.5177.

Most PoPular

moderntire-autoservice.com

by John DiSimone

Modern TireOf West Hartford

860.233.5177 | moderntire-autoservice.com | Book appointments online! |

Blue Back Square At West Hartford CenterFull Service Auto Repair Shop

Andy Rizzo, John DeSimone, Brian Hajdasz

(Across from Whole Foods)

“Car breaks are one of the most prevalent property crimes we experience in West Hartford and they occur in all sections of town. More often than not, thieves enter unlocked vehicles hoping to make a quick and easy find. Please take the time to properly secure all valuables and keep car doors locked. Taking these simple actions can have a drastic impact on reducing these crimes of opportunity.”

Chief tracey G. GovePolice Chief, town of West Hartford

A MessAge froM the Chief of PoliCe...

a Word From NAPA.Those auto service schedules in your owner’s manual are there for a reason. If ever you don’t understand a recommended service, just ask your West Hartford service advisor at Modern Tire of West Hartford. We’ll be happy to explain. he function of the fuel fil-ter is pretty self-explanatory. It filters your fuel. The fuel filter is in the fuel line somewhere in between the fuel tank and the engine. Both gas and diesel vehicles around West Hartford CT use fuel filters.

�2 westhartfordmagazine.com

is for holiday

s!

a holiday guide

2013

lifetime

FROM THE PALU COLLECTION

LUX BOND & GREEN46 LaSalle Road WEST HARTFORD CENTER 860.521.3015

Glastonbury South Windsor Mohegan Sun Greenwich Westport Boston Wellesley 800.524.7336 LBGreen.com



EVERY BOX HAS A STORY

Treasured for a

The Holidays Come Early at The Heights.

Living at The Heights is a pleasure you’ll enjoy every day of the year. Explore our senior living community, tucked away on a 43-acre park-like setting, overlooking

the downtown skyline and Avon Mountain.

Everything from boutiques to breathtaking views and fine dining are a mere stroll away. Our state-of-the-art Wellness Center and full calendar of social activities keep our residents inspired to live life to the fullest.

Come explore all The Heights has to offer! Join us for our Open House and Luncheon: November 27th,

November 30th and December 14th. Starting at 10:45 a.m.

To RSVP for upcoming events or for more

information call: 860-953-1201

550 Avery HeightsHartford, CT 06106

www.averyheights.com

Here’s one special gift you don’t have to wait for the holidays to enjoy.

Receive up to $1,000 for Moving Expenses& One Month’s Free Rent when you make a

commitment by December 15th.

ext. 403

Come to our Holiday Tea!Discover unique gifts, clothing & jewelry at The Villager Gift Shop at The Heights. Plus enjoy holiday music and free refreshments!

Thursday, December 5th, 1:00 – 6:00 p.m.To RSVP, call 860-953-1201, ext. 403

Happy Holidays to you- our very loyal readers and subscribers. To those of you receiving DAZZLE for the first time, and to those of you in Avon and Farmington who receive DAZZLE each holiday season, thank you for welcoming us into your home. (Watch for PALETTE next spring!)

DAZZLE is full of wonderful “wrap-it-and-tie-it-with-a-bow” gift ideas and it also includes a few suggestions for how to give back to the community and/or help those less fortu-nate this hoilday season. Please consider ALL kinds of gift giving this season!

Thank you for your support and we hope you find time to visit many of our advertisers and featured merchants- and tell them you were DAZZLED!

Looking forward to 2014... Please have a safe, happy and healthy Holiday Season!

Thomas P. HickeyII, Publisher

P.S. Periodically you will receive custom publications from us as a perk for subscribing and as a thank you for your loyalty as a faithful reader.

Dazzle is a WHMedia custom publication. For more information, check us out on www.westhartfordmagazine.com.DAZZLE is published by: WHMedia, Inc. | 998 Farmington Ave., Suite 205, West Hartford, CT 06107www.westhartfordmagazine.com | office 860-523-1800 ©2013 WHMedia, Inc. All rights reserved. No part of this periodical may be reproduced without express permission of the publisher. The opinions expressedby writers commissioned for articles published by WH Media, Inc. are not necessarily those of the magazine.

They’ve got Leather in their showroom houses & thousands of fabric samples. re-upholster to recyle and restyle your favorite pieces. Imperial Decorating and upholstery. Quotes available. 41 prescott Street, West Hartford. imperialdecorating.com

Gurgle pots in an array of colors... and they really gurgle, creating smiles around the table! $39. Pompanoosuc Mills. 21 Brace road, West Hartford. pompy.com

Brahms Mount 100% cotton throws hand-woven and featured in Oprah magazine! $235. Pompanoosuc Mills. 21 Brace Road, West Hartford. pompy.com

deck the Hull Ornament: Trim your tree with this chris-craft®-inspired ornament! Made from hand-blown, hand-painted glass, this work of art is a festive way to get in the island spirit. Tommy Bahama at Westfarms. $68.

ome...

This giraffe is made from eco-friendly 3-ply bamboo with white hour and minute hands and a gold second hand, run by a silent clock motor. Size: 6” x 15”. $68.00. Lila Mae: Sustainably Made in the uSA. Holiday pop up shop at 95 Memorial drive, West Hartford.

chandler 4 corners hooked pillows in a variety of charming images and colors. $165. Pompanoosuc Mills. 21 Brace road, West Hartford. pompy.com from $55+

unique luminaries by Tabatha Henry, each piece is cast, decorated and fired in her vT studio. $59 to $99. Pompanoosuc Mills. 21 Brace road, West Hartford. pompy.com

Original Buddha Board. Simply paint with water. $29.99. Jerry’s Artarama of CT, 1109 New Britain Ave., West Hartford. jerrsartsupplies.com.

>>

Give memories in the form of family photography gift certificates this season! Studio and on-location sessions available. Sessions begin at $150, with framed wall art starting at $375. IRIS Photography, West Hartford center. photoiris.com.

ome...These beautiful hand blown Vermont Evergreens reflect candlelight brilliantly, by Simon Pearce. Lux Bond & Green, 46 LaSalle Road, West Hartford. lbgreen.com

keep them coming back for more! Giftware department at Monarch Jewelers, 838 Farmington Ave., Farmington. monarchjewelers.com

lifetime

FROM THE PALU COLLECTION





EVERY BOX HAS A STORY

Treasured for a

Why Miss Your ownParty?

Together we have over 25 years of bartending & event experience and offer our services to you for any type of occasion. Along with our staff, we are licensed, T.I.P.S. certified, and fully insured.

John: 203-215-6701 Bob: 860-299-6161 [email protected]

MONARCH JEWELERS 2013 | 2014 MJ �

MonarchJewelers

MJ MAGAZINE 2013/2014 • Vol.5/No.1monarchjewelers.com

Imagine one of these Pre-Loved Luxury Watches* on your wrist or that special someone in your life. These Pre-Loved Luxury Watches* can be passed on generation to generation so start your collection now or add to what you already own.

*Monarch Jewelers is not an authorized dealer of any luxury watch pictured. Authenticity is guaranteed or your money back!

Luxury.Pre-Loved Luxury Watches*

MJ � MONARCHJEWELERS.COM | Gift CARdS AvAiLAbLE | viSit uS ON fACEbOOk

Luxury.


We’ll turn over every rock to help you find that special piece you are looking for! Whether it be for everyday wear or that special night out our selection of Sapphires, Rubies and Emeralds will amaze you ... and if we don’t have what you want in the store special orders are welcome. Plenty of loose stones available to suit any budget and style.For a more affordable selection and vast array of colored stones choose from Amethyst, Citrine or Topaz to name a few ... have some fun and combine a color or two into your next piece!

Color.

MJ � MONARCHJEWELERS.COM | Gift CARdS AvAiLAbLE | viSit uS ON fACEbOOk

Color.


Mi Moneda means “My Coin” in Spanish and is already a big hit with the celebs like Rihanna and Halle Berry.The fashionable and luxurious brand is inspired by vintage coins and combines high style jewelry with ancient spiritual ideas. The unique interchangeable pendant, designed to change coins, makes it possible to create a personal necklace. With over 250,000 combinations you can create any look with a “flip of a coin.”

MJ � MONARCHJEWELERS.COM


The Italian words Ti Sento mean “I feel you”. Poetry to everyone who is in love with jewelry. Today’s women feel comfortable with their free spirit and modern femininity. Our Ti Sento collection enhances this love affair. All stones are hand-set in sterling silver and backed by a two year warranty.

Elegance.MJ � MONARCHJEWELERS.COM | Gift CARdS AvAiLAbLE | viSit uS ON fACEbOOk

Color is by far the hottest trend in pearls right now and our pearls are known for their iridescent, vibrant, almost metallic colors, with the unique ability to display a variety of colors at the same time -- colors such as Peacock, Eggplant, Olive Green, Blue and Gold.From Classic White Strands to Trendy “Fireball” Pearl Strand or Pendant - our selection is a must see in person to appreciate the ultimate gift from the Sea!

May want to describe how the pearls take on didfferent tones to what they wear.... ppl may not get it by the photo.


Ombré Tahitian Opera Length Pearl

Necklace

Contemporary to Classic Designs best describe our selection of Dazzling Diamonds at MJ. We have been leaders in Diamond artistry and craftsmanship for over three decades serving generations of families for their Engagement, Wedding and Anniversary needs.We take great pride in our reputation for custom design work for not only the discriminating buyer but anyone who wants something special and unique to fit their personality and taste. Quite often family heirlooms from two or three pieces are brought in to be “married” into one special piece suiting your style. Come on, bring it in we welcome the challenge.

MJ �0 MONARCHJEWELERS.COM | Gift CARdS AvAiLAbLE | viSit uS ON fACEbOOk

Dazzling Diamonds.

MONARCH JEWELERS 2013 | 2014 MJ ��

MJ �� WWW.MONARCHJEWELERS.COM

Simply Silver.

MJ �� MONARCHJEWELERS.COM | Gift CARdS AvAiLAbLE | viSit uS ON fACEbOOk

Our line of Sterling Silver Jewelry is affordable and most importantly features designers hand picked by Angela, Lee and Jesse including Alisa, Breuning, Ed Levin and David Wysor to name a few.The combination of silver, gold and rose makes each piece a work of art!Special orders are welcome so shop early to ensure prompt delivery!

In addition to Gold Jewelry never going out of style ... today it is an investment! From Necklaces to Cuffs we have a variety of exquisite jewelry in Gold for both him and her. If you don’t see something you like just let us know and we’ll find it for you. Clean out your old jewelry box before you come in because you may want to trade in your gold and redesign an existing piece or use cash toward another purchase.

FOPE’s FLEX IT bracelet featured here is still a favorite because it is so easily put on and taken off ... perfect for those of us who want to wear it everyday and appreciate its easy on/off again design and especially convenient for those of us with active lifestyles.


Gold Glam.


Great Gifts.


With brands like Nambe, Michael Aram, Camilletti and Olivia Riegel… featured in our 2,000 square foot Fine Gift Showroom … you need not visit the Mall or Center (free parking at MJ)! By the time we Gift Wrap your purchase (always FREE at MJ) your package will look as special as you are to us. Sometimes you can’t find exactly what you are looking for so consider a MJ GIFT CARD, and yes it is Gift-Wrapped in its own box. Special Gift Registration and Special Orders are welcomed!

Great Gifts.



Our Watch line includes Seiko, Saint Honore, Pulsar and

private label MJ watches for him

and her.

Seiko.starting at 25% off.

Bossa Nova Votive, 2 Piece

Set offered at $19.90

Bossa Nova Serving Set, 3 Pieces offered at $29.90

Aspen Whiskey Decanter Set, 3 Pieces offered at $99.90

As always we have a complete selection of Riedel Crystal.

Glamorous Sterling Silver.

$149.90 each.

Gift Sets.

838 Farmington Avenue, Farmington CT 06032 (860) 679-7700 www.monarchjewelers.com Vol. 5 / No. 1

Principles: Angela & Lee DeFelippi

Publishing, Creative & Content Advisor:Jesse DeFelippi

Co-publisher: WHMedia, Inc.Tom Hickey and Joy Taylor

Graphic Designer: Jennifer Inocencio

Photographer: Cheyney Barrieau

Monarch Jewelers Magazine is published jointly by MonarchJewelers, and WHMedia, Inc. It is distributed to the communitiesit serves. ©2013 Monarch Jewelers and WHMedia, Inc. All rightsreserved. No part of this periodical may be reproduced withoutexpress permission of the publishers.

MonarchJewelers

Glamorous Sterling Silver.

Gift Sets.

obbies...

custom bottled and private label soda available for any event via Avery Soda, or purchase West Hartford’s own label in a selection of your favorite flavors. Available for purchase at Effie’s Place Family Restaurant,91 park road, or Pet Supplies Plus, 2480 Albany Ave. in Bishop’s corner, West Hartford.

Alex Woo MLB red Sox pendants, 16” disco chain in three options. Sterling Silver: $178. 14k yellow gold: $848. With diamonds, 14k white gold: $1048. Lux Bond & Green46 LaSalle road, West Hartford. lbgreen.com

cufflinks from actual MLB baseballs. Lux Bond & Green46 LaSalle road, West Hartford. lbgreen.com

decorative papers from around the world. prices vary. Jerry’s Artarama of CT1109 New Britain Ave., West Hartford.

jerrsartsupplies.com.

Hand-crafted guitars by skilled,West Hartford guitar maker, Peter A. Occhineri. See gallery atocchineriguitars.com princeton SeNSu Solo, the digital

brush for touchscreen devices. 5 color options. $24.99 each.Jerry’s Artarama of CT 1109 New Britain Ave., West Hartford. jerrsartsupplies.com.

Sports Memorabilia, and more at Monarch Jewelers. 838 Farmington Ave. monarchjewelers.com

Tea sampler packs in a variety of flavors, including Green, Black, White, rooibos, pu-erh, and Oolong. $6.85 each. The Green Teahouse, 40 Isham road, West Hartford. thegreenteahouse.com

Wyndmere essential Oils (to help you unwind from holiday stress!). prices vary. Village Vitality, 982 Farmington Ave. villagevitality.com

Shea daily duo from L’Occitane at Westfarms. $18

uLuX gift kit is an amazing gift, what woman would not want to be pampered with a shampoo and condition system containing crushed Tahitian pearls? $84.00. Blo West Hartford, 71 Memorial road, West Hartford. blomedry.com

ealth &

beauty...

Blo West Hartford offers gift cards and any denomination... remember, you’re not cheating on your hairdresser! Blo-tabs start at $245.00 for a package of 8 blow outs. Blo West Hartford, 71 Memorial road, West Hartford.

blomedry.com

divine Star Gift from L’Occitane at Westfarms. $182

Hand cream Bouquet from L’Occitane at Westfarms.

Aveda stress fix line: soaking salts $42, body lotion $30, and rollerball concen-trate $24. A line clinically proven to re-duce stress. Ecocert-certified organic. Aroma infused with French Lavender, lavandin and clary sage from organic farms. Per Se, 58 Memorial Road, and Matthew Phillips, 68 LaSalle Road, West Hartford. perseaveda.com

DETAILING: The complete detailing experience is second to none ... air vents are cleaned, windows washed inside and out, carpets shampooed... you get the idea!

RUSSELL SPEEDER’S FULL SERVICE HAND WASH associates are hired because they are the best. They are friendly, speedy and passionate about customer service. Your

visit starts with a hospitable greeting while you determine which service your vehicle requires. Then you are invited to one of the pristine waiting areas while your car is

driven to the conveyor belt (no pull chains used here), then they vacuum the inside, wash the exterior by hand, clean the wheels, and dry the car. Then they clean the inside windows, wipe the dash and console and wipe the door jambs!

When you mix CUSTOM CAR WASH equipment with the best cleaners available, the result is a car that is cleaner, shinier and drier than you could ever imagine.

265 West Main Street (Route 44, near TJ Maxx and WalMart) • Avon (860) 269-3136 Full Service Hand Wash Hours: Monday Thru Saturday, 8:00am till 6:00pm Sunday 9:00am till 5:00pm

“I Love This Car Wash”-Theresa Wright, customer

Absolutely the best car wash in New England! I am very particular when it comes to

my vehicles. I love what I drive and I want what I drive to love me back.

150% QUALITy & SATISFACTION GUARANTEED!

It’s All In The Details!It’s All In The Details!

Gift Cards Available !-John, customer

“You’ve Got My Whole Family Coming and That Includes 5 Vehicles.””

-Tony Everett, customer

Celebrate the Holiday Season at the 40th Annual Festival of Trees & Traditions! This nine-day holiday event features trees and wreaths decorated by Hartford area artists and organizations displayed throughout the galleries. All items are for sale and proceeds fund the museum’s special exhibitions, educational programs and operating expenses. Enjoy daily musical entertainment, family friendly activities and more!

FOTT2013insert_WH Mag.indd 1 11/4/13 2:07 PM

40th AnnualFESTIVAL OF TREES & TRADITIONS

View the full schedule for the 40th Annual Festival of Trees & Traditions at thewadsworth.org/festivaloftrees________________________________________

Festival Dates:December 5, 5 – 8 pm (First Thursday)December 6 – 15, 10 am – 5 pmClosed Monday & Tuesday, December 9 & 10

Admission:Adults: $13Seniors (62+): $11Students (13+): $8Children (2-12): $3Members: $3 Groups of ten or more will receive a discount by reservation only. To schedule a group visit call (860) 838-4046. Group rates: Adults $12, Seniors $10, Students $8.________________________________________

SPECIAL EVENTS Thursday, December 5 | 5 – 8 pmFIRST THURSDAY: FESTIVAL!Have the first opportunity to purchase your favorite holiday trees and wreaths! Listen to jolly tunes spun by DJ Jon Eastman and enjoy cocktails, snacks and a holiday-inspired art activity. Stay for an 8 pm screening of Love Actually! $8; $3 Members and college students with ID.

Friday, December 6 | 6:30 – 9:30 pmNIGHT OF ILLUMINATIONCelebrate the 40th anniversary of Festival with us! Sample festive cocktails and hors d’oeuvres provided by Onyx Moonshine and local restaurants, listen to live music by William Hall High School’s Choraliers and Jazz Combo, and watch a special preview perfor-mance of CONNetic Dance’s The Nutcracker Suite and Spicy! $55; $45 Members.

Purchase Special Event tickets online at thewadsworth.org/tickets or call (860) 838-4100.

The Festival of Trees & Traditions is presented by the Women’s Committee of the Wadsworth Atheneum Museum of Art.

FOTT2013insert_WH Mag.indd 2 11/4/13 2:07 PM

FESTIVAL ofTREES & TRADITIONS December 5 – 15, 2013

Night of IlluminationFriday, December 6, 6:30 - 9:30 pmCelebrate the 40th Anniversary of Festival!

thewadsworth.org/festivaloftrees

WADSWORTH ATHENEUM MUSEUM OF ART | 600 MAIN STREET | HARTFORD CT 06103

you can be dressed to the nines with a custom made suit to order! Gift certificates available. Bob deGemmis’ Dressed To The Nines, 1000 Farmington Ave., West Hartford.

Men’s Bordeaux Leather Boot. $345. Carlo Pazolini at Westfarms.

Sunglasses by SALT, shown: Lester for men and Hanna for women, $419 each. Available at SIGHT, 17 South Main Street, West Hartford. sight.net

ot, hip &

happening..

.

Bordeaux Tote Bag in patent Leather. $295 . Carlo Pazolini at Westfarms.

Atlas® earrings in 18 karat white gold with diamonds. $6,900. Tiffany & Co. at Westfarms.

Atlas® necklace in sterling silver. $250. Tiffany & Co. at Westfarms.

Mix and match c & S Style bracelets to create one-of-a kind stacks! Made from semi-precious stones such as fire agate, czech beads, jade and more. Single bracelets start at $50. Bracelets can be found at Silkworm Boutique, SilkwormOnline.com, and Spruce (both of West Hartford center). Find us on Facebook.

Atlas® bracelets: 18 karat rose gold with diamonds, $750. Sterling silver, $250. Tiffany & Co. at Westfarms.

>>

Bronze Mid Buckle Flat “Soho Boot” with Fur and Suede detail. $325. Carlo Pazolini at Westfarms.

High Heel Bootie with Bow detail in Leather and patent Leather. $395. Carlo Pazolini at Westfarms.

ot, hip &

Get your pandora at BK&Co, 64 LaSalle road, West Harford center. Snow Angel featured on the bracelet. Also pictured: St. Nick - $50; Winter Mittens - $45; Silver Bells - $50; Tree of Lights - $55.

Peg and Awl’s wonderfully rugged is constructed with waxed canvas, vintage fabric lined-pockets, reclaimed leather straps and closures (from antique gun holsters and saddles,) brass rivets and Sam Browne buttons. $280.00. Lila Mae: Sustainably Made in the uSA. Holi day pop up shop at 95 Memorial Drive, West Hartford.

happening..

.

From the IppOLITA rock candy Gelato collection, 18k Gold Sofia Short Necklace shown with a selection of IppOLITA bracelets. Lux Bond & Green, 46 LaSalle road, West Hartfordlbgreen.com

The Maharani Wisdom necklace by designer Nina Nguyen. Legend has it turquoise will protect the wearer against negative energy and bring peace. Beautiful turquoise set in sterling clad in 22 karat gold. $1,495. DeRobertis Jewelers, 52 LaSalle road, West Hartford. derobertisjewelers.com

Joseph ribkoff black sheer mesh and fabulous bordeaux matte jersey top. $154.00. BK&Co., 64 LaSalle road, West Hartford. bkcostyle.com

deep Sea charms Necklace. vintage claw, heirloom mollusk charm, quartz, abalone. 22” oxidized recycled silver chain. One of a kind. $430.00. Spruce Home and Garden, 973 Farmington Ave.,sprucehomeandgarden.com

You can be dressed to the nines with a custom made suit to order! Gift certificates available. Bob DeGemmis’ Dressed To The Nines, 1000 Farmington Ave., West Hartford. dressedtotheninescustomclothing.com

Gift PlantsKeeping Holiday Plants Looking TheirBest Into The New Year

Karla Dalley is a garden writer and speaker from West Hartford. [email protected]. gardendaze.wordpress.com

GARDEN

A s the song keeps reminding us, ‘it’s the most wonderful time of the year!’ And certainly the time from Thanksgiving through New Year’s Day is a time to

celebrate with family and friends. A great way to bring on the holiday season is to bring ‘gift’ or ‘seasonal’ plants into our homes. With very little extra work, these plants can actually become lovely additions to our homes year-round. You simply need to know what conditions these plants like and make sure they have it. Poinsettias are the biggest sellers in No-vember and December, in fact, they are the most popular houseplant. Because it is native to Mexico, however, it is sensitive to cold, and unfortunately, we buy them in cold weather. When you purchase them, make sure they are wrapped before taking them from the garden

center or florist. Exposure to cold will shorten the life of those colorful

bracts (what we think of as ‘flowers’ are actu-

ally colorful leaf bracts). Because of

their sensitiv-ity, these

plants cannot be

left in

the car for a few more holiday errands. And once the plant is home, make sure it is not in a drafty place or too near a heat source. If these plants sound demanding, just remember that they are really outdoor tropical shrubs and we’re trying to grow them as houseplants. To keep these plants happy, keep them in bright light and evenly moist. Do this and these plants will retain those brightly col-ored leaves for quite some time…often right into spring. Poinsettias will re-bloom naturally if they are kept in an out of the way place in a cooler room. Try to avoid turning on the lights in that room at night. In the begin-ning of December, the poinsettia bracts will naturally turn red. Although the plants will not be quite as lush as the ones in the garden centers, there’s a pleasure in knowing how to make a poinsettia re-bloom! Another holiday plant some have trouble with is the poorly named Christmas Cactus. For one thing, the genus schlumbergera is neither a cactus nor does it naturally bloom at Christmas. It is a succulent, which means it needs a little more water than a cactus. They are native to Brazil, and there, they grow in humid, shady regions in the trees. Our homes are nothing like this so that is why when we take them from a greenhouse they might lose some of their buds. Once home, they are easy to care for if we remem-ber two things: these plants should not dry out completely (they are not cacti), and they should be kept in a shady window. They can be very long-lived, some folks have them for decades. And in the follow-ing years they set their buds in relation to day length and temperature so again, a darker, cooler window is better if you want them to bloom earlier, or a brighter, (but not sunny) warmer one is better if you

want them to bloom later. Some people don’t decorate with poinset-tias or Christmas cacti. There are still many plants available this time of year to enhance the home. Nothing dresses up a table like a phalaenopsis, or moth orchid. This is the second most popular house-plant, and it’s easy to see why. It comes in a lovely variety of pastel colors and will bloom for months. Phalaenopsis are also tough plants, as is obvious by the fact that they are sold every-where, often right by the drafty front doors of big box stores. They do not need direct light and they usually only need water once a week, depending on how warm the home is. They will re-bloom easily too. Care is simple. In the summer, put them outside around Memorial Day in a shady spot. Bring them back inside around Labor Day. You’ll find that a new bud spike has formed by then. It’s that simple. A few other choices for holiday plants can be cyclamen, a bulb-like plant that prefers cool conditions and likes to be watered from the bottom. Norfolk Island Pine, a very long-lived houseplant, as long as it doesn’t get too dry, and stephanotis, a fragrant vine with white waxy flowers. Plants brighten our homes during the dark winter months and with a minimum of care, ‘gift-plants’ need not be disposed of with the wrapping paper. They can remain well into the New Year to bring even more warmth and cheer! n

Potted

by karla A. dalley

prSTd STANdArduS pOSTAGe

pAIddIrecT MAILSOLuTIONS

998 Farmington Avenue, Suite 205West Hartford, cT 06107

CUSTOM PUBLISHING | TARGET MARKETING

holiday 13 west hartford mag

Documents

holiday season

holiday gift guide

holiday foodsspotlightin

peoplea holiday guide

companywest hartford

black dial

ina black ip case

glam girl