Today Magazine • November 2023 by Bruce Deckert

TODAY Covering the Heart of the Farmington Valley

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Favarh Marks 65 Years Of IDD Service

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LEADING OFF

Identifying With IDD

CONTENTS COVER STORY

9 — Celebrating IDD Identity Favarh is celebrating 65 years of seeking to honor the identities and stories of people with diagnosed clinical disabilities — in the Valley and beyond SPOTLIGHT ON THE ARTS

4-7 — Splendor Captured If you’re unaware of our featured photographer, get ready to remedy your Rosenberg deficiency NOTEWORTHY NONPROFITS

14 — Arc-Style Housing Hope An exclusive interview with Favarh’s director notes the national leadership role of this local operation

HOW OFTEN do you feel marginalized? Have you ever been mocked and made fun of? This is sometimes the experience of people who have a clinical IDD diagnosis — IDD stands for intellectual and developmental disabilities. The goal of Canton-based Favarh is, safe to say, far better. For 65 years, this noteworthy nonprofit has been seeking to honor the identities and stories of IDD people in the Farmington Valley and beyond. What comes to mind when you hear the term disability? Maybe someone who has a significant physical challenge or a chronic condition or a low IQ. When I consider the term disability the following word readily comes to mind — everybody. True, a clinical IDD diagnosis doesn’t apply to most people. Yet if we object to being labeled as disabled, are we being honest with ourselves? As gifted we all are, we are also — shall we admit — broken and flawed. What is the truth about disabilities and the human condition, and who offers the best solution? — BWD

SPORTS REPORT

20 — World Series Wonder Here’s some Valley-related Fall Classic trivia to spice up your baseball enlightenment QUOTE OF THE MONTH

“ The Farmington Valley holds a special place in my heart — it’s where I’ve spent my life ” • Favarh executive director Stephen Morris BY THE NUMBERS

80% — IDD un/underemployment

LETTERS

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COVER STORY KUDOS Our October cover story celebrates milestone anniversaries of Farmington Valley food banks and local residents who care for their neighbors in need — CLICK HERE for our coverage THANK YOU for highlighting the life-saving work of local Food Banks in the October edition of Today Magazine. We are especially proud that our CCHF 2023 Community Partner, the Canton Food Bank, was featured. Director Jennifer Herbek and the Canton Food Bank exemplify the very best of “boots on the ground” leadership, teamwork and critical in-community impact. It’s great to see them get the recognition they deserve.

Today Magazine • Covering the Heart of the Farmington Valley Bruce William Deckert — Publisher + Editor-in-Chief 860-988-1910 • Bruce.Deckert@TodayPublishing.net www.TodayPublishing.net > Digital Editions • Award-Winning Today Online • 24/7 news — www.TodayPublishing.net/blog Follow Today Magazine CT on social media > Advertising — Contact the Publisher Editorial Associate — Kayla Tyson Contributing Photographer — Wendy Rosenberg Five Towns • One Aim — Exceptional Community Journalism Farmington • Avon • Canton • Simsbury • Granby – CT • USA

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— Sylvia Cancela • Chair • Canton Community Health Fund THE OCTOBER EDITION is exceptionally well done. I loved the (timely) article on Food Banks, and Shayaan Khan’s piece is also a great one. Lots of substantive info and food for thought — no pun intended! Thanks for another great issue. — Dr. Robert Naeher • Winsted • History Teacher • Avon Old Farms School

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THANK YOU so much for publishing Shayaan’s article! He is happy to see it in Today Magazine. Your introduction of him and your willingness to cover the topic is very much appreciated. — Sana Syed • Simsbury 8th-grader Shayaan Khan, the son of Sana Syed and Anwar Khan, has written several cogent articles for Today Magazine — CLICK HERE for his newest contribution SUBSCRIBE to TODAY for FREE — CLICK HERE TODAY MAGAZINE – www.TodayPublishing.net – NOVEMBER 2023

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SPECTACULAR PARADOX • Do you recognize this butterfly? • The eastern tiger swallowtail comprises a riddle wrapped in a paradox — shall we say, like a cocoon — because this flying enigma is at the same time one of the most common and most extraordinary butterfly species • Eastern tiger swallowtails are typically found east of the Mississippi River — with further populations in Canada and Mexico — and their outspread wings sometimes measure up to 5.5 inches Photo by Wendy Rosenberg TODAY MAGAZINE – www.TodayPublishing.net – NOVEMBER 2023

• Wendy Rosenberg is a multiple award-winning photographer whose work has graced the pages of Today Publishing magazines for nearly five years — yes, she has been Today’s featured contributing photog since January 2019 • Wendy and her husband Jeffrey have resided in the Farmington Valley for more than two decades — they moved from West Hartford to Canton in 2002 • Wendy’s Today Publishing work has focused mainly on wildlife — yet the images on these two pages indicate that her camera also finds the amazing beauty of creation’s splendor sans animals • Among Wendy’s many awards are two Society of Professional Journalist honors for photos in Today Magazine — and her stunning images have been displayed in numerous Valley exhibits • She came on the radar of Today editor-in-chief Bruce Deckert via a Natural World Photo Exhibit at Canton Public Library in early 2019 — and she is returning to her hometown library this November and December — 6 NOVEMBER 2023 www.TodayPublishing.net – TODAY MAGAZINE find further details in– the Today Online Calendar at the link on Page 2

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FAVARH CELEBRATES 65TH BIRTHDAY Favarh moved to Canton in 2001 — prior to that Favarh’s office was located in Avon — now the nonprofit’s home is at 225 Commerce Drive near Dowd Avenue and the Canton Village Shops

ON THE COVER Favarh residents Simon and Migdalia, who are dating, are all smiles at a Favarh dance

Courtesy Photos

Favarh’s Aim: Empower Lives + Inspire Hope Special to Today Magazine

Editor’s Note

NESTLED IN THE HEART of Connecticut stands an organization that has been quietly transforming lives for 65 years. Favarh, also known as The Arc of the Farmington Valley, aims to be a beacon of hope and inclusion for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) and their families. The Arc movement, which began in the 1950s as a grassroots effort to advocate for individuals with IDD, has since grown into a nationwide network of organizations dedicated to creating a world where everyone — regardless of their abilities — can live, work and thrive.

2023 is the 65th anniversary of Favarh — aka the Arc of the Farmington Valley ——————————————— This nonprofit was first established in the Avon Congregational Church basement as the Favarh Day School for youth with intellectual disabilities — in the 1950s these children weren’t accepted in public schools ——————————————— The rest is history — and that history is of course ongoing — today Favarh is the largest private employer in Canton, per executive director Stephen E. Morris, with a staff of 350

COVER STORY NOTEWORTHY NONPROFITS Founded in 1958, Favarh (pronounced FAY-var) has been at the forefront of this movement in Connecticut, demonstrating a commitment to improving the lives of individuals with IDD in 34 towns in the Farmington Valley and Greater Hartford. Favarh’s cause is simple yet profound: to empower individuals with IDD to live, work and participate fully in their communities. This mission is achieved through a wide range of programs and services that cater to the

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Favarh clients work and volunteer at various local businesses > • At the nonprofit’s own venture, the Favarh Thrift Shop on Albany Turnpike aka Route 44 in Canton • At the Farmington Library — below left • At a shredding event — right

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unique needs and aspirations of each person Favarh supports. One of the pillars of Favarh’s success is the organization’s emphasis on person-centered planning. Every person who walks through the door is treated as an individual with unique talents, dreams and goals. Favarh works closely with each individual and his or her family to create a personalized plan that charts a path toward independence and a meaningful life. Whether it’s finding employment, living independently or pursuing hobbies and interests, Favarh aims to provide the support and resources needed to turn dreams into reality. Employment opportunities are a vital aspect of Favarh’s work. The nonprofit partners with local businesses to create inclusive workplaces where people with IDD can contribute their skills and talents. Through vocational training and job coaching, Favarh helps participants build confidence and develop the skills needed to succeed in the workforce. One shining example of Favarh’s impact on employment is its collaboration with BeanZ & Co. Café in Avon. Employees with IDD are actively involved in the cafe’s daily operations, from preparing specialty drinks to managing customer orders. This partnership not only provides meaningful employment but also fosters a sense of belonging and community integration. Beyond employment, Favarh offers a wide array of recreational and educational programs that promote skill development and social inclusion. From art and music therapy to fitness classes and community outings, Favarh strives to ensure that individuals with IDD have the opportunity to explore their interests, make friends, contribute to their community, and lead fulfilling lives. Favarh’s commitment to inclusion extends to its housing programs. The community offers a range of housing options — from group homes to supported living arrangements — designed to provide a safe and comfortable environment where people with IDD can thrive while

“ We proudly hold the distinction of being the largest private employer in the town of Canton ” — Stephen Morris Favarh executive director maintaining their independence. One of Favarh’s unique housing initiatives is the development of Bear Woods GRANBY TODAY Apartments in Canton. This complex of 40 apartments gives 22 young adults with IDD their first opportunity to live outside their families’ homes. The Favarh residents have expressed joy and a newfound sense of independence, with one tenant saying, “I feel really good to be here — it makes me feel like a grown-up.” A sister project to Bear Woods is Favarh’s Lavender Field Apartments in Bloomfield. Both of these apartment complexes offer tenants with IDD increased independence and autonomy in an integrated environment. They have become models for similar apartments in Connecticut and around the nation. Favarh has also established Project SEARCH at UConn Health, an internship initiative that provides valuable work experience for

participants with IDD and then helps them find employment opportunities at area workplaces. Due to its success, the program has grown statewide. Another unique initiative is the Favarh Players program, a fully inclusive annual theater production that allows individuals with IDD to showcase their talents on stage while promoting inclusivity and creativity. Volunteer actors from the community work alongside Favarh participants with IDD over the course of six months

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in weekly rehearsals, culminating in three live performances. In 2024, the Favarh Players are scheduled to present “The Lion King Jr.” from March 15-17 at Kingswood Oxford School in West Hartford. Almost as old as the organization itself, the Favarh Thrift Shop at 250 Albany Turnpike (Route 44) in Canton is a hidden gem that not only offers budget-friendly treasures but also plays a crucial role in supporting Favarh’s mission. When Favarh was established in 1958, one of the first fundraising endeavors was the thrift shop, with proceeds funding the nonprofit’s programs and services. This charming shop is a testament to the community’s generosity — it is stocked with an eclectic assortment of donated and gently used clothing, furniture, books and unique knick-knacks. Shoppers can discover one-of-a-kind finds and score great deals while knowing that their purchases directly contribute to Favarh’s efforts to empower people with IDD. And this win-win thrift shop is run by a small army of committed and welcoming volunteers. Applicants encouraged! The Arc of the Farmington Valley is more than an organization — it’s a tight-knit community of individuals, families, staff and volunteers who share a common goal: to fashion a world where people of all abilities are valued and included. Guests can sense this palpable spirit of community when they visit the campus, where laughter, camaraderie, and a sense of purpose typically fill the air.

Favarh resident Marge with her staff support person, Cheryl Cianciolo — Marge celebrated her 80th birthday last year

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The Favarh Players presented “Aladdin Jr.” earlier this year — “The Lion King Jr.” is scheduled for March 2024

For over six decades, the success stories that have emerged from Favarh are a testament to the nonprofit’s dedication and unwavering belief in the potential of every individual. From someone learning to communicate independently for the first time, to another securing a profitable job in their chosen field, to the widely celebrated marriage of two Favarh residents, Favarh’s impact reverberates throughout the Farmington Valley and beyond. In an era where inclusivity and equality are at the forefront of societal conversations, Favarh stands as a shining example of what can be achieved when a community comes together to support and uplift those who need it most. The objective is not just to change lives, but also to change perceptions, break down barriers and inspire hope for a more inclusive future. As Favarh celebrates a remarkable 65-year journey in the Farmington Valley, this noteworthy nonprofit reminds us that the true measure of a society’s progress resides in its ability to embrace and empower all people, regardless of their perceived abilities. Favarh aims to serve as an inspiring reminder that when we work together, we can cultivate a world where everyone has the opportunity to shine. + www.favarh.org Sources — Favarh Marketing & Communications • Favarh website • Canton resident Penny Phillips is the director of marketing and communications at Favarh CLICK HERE — for Today Magazine’s July cover story on Favarh’s Project SEARCH at UConn Health Two Favarh roommates with their apartment keys TODAY MAGAZINE – www.TodayPublishing.net – NOVEMBER 2023 13 at Lavender Field Apartments in Bloomfield

Favarh: Tracing Arc of IDD Story Special to Today Magazine

FAVARH The Arc of the Farmington Valley —————————————————————————— 225 Commerce Drive • Canton 860-693-6662 Email — favarh@favarh.org Website — www.favarh.org Social Media • Facebook • Instagram • LinkedIn • Twitter

Executive director Stephen E. Morris has answered this Q&A ————————————————————— Year established — 1958 Mission — To help each person achieve their personal best. Most fulfilling aspect of your work? The number one concern that I hear from families is “What is going to happen to our child after we’re gone”? By creating opportunities for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) to live, work, and lead healthy and active lives in the community, we not only help the adults with IDD, we help their families have assurance that their loved one will be happy, safe and looked after, even after they are gone. Your biggest obstacle, and how you overcome it? The waiting list for residential supports has always been long, available only

after parents are too frail or medically compromised to take care of their adult child with IDD. But group homes are expensive and apartment living can be isolating. Finding an alternative was a big challenge. We met a developer who was willing to work with us to design an integrated apartment building where 25% of the apartments would be set aside and specially designed for adults with IDD. The other apartments would be available to others who qualified for the income limits associated with these affordable apartments.

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VALLEY INTEL NOTEWORTHY NONPROFITS We presented the idea of what we now call Supported Housing to the Connecticut Department of Developmental Services (DDS) in 2015. In 2016, the DDS and the Department of Housing announced a grant program that would allow us and others to demonstrate that this model could work. In 2021 our first Supportive Housing complex opened in Canton. In 2022, the second one opened in Bloomfield. Today, there are more than a dozen additional projects in development or that have been recently completed by other IDD providers, and a third program for Favarh is planned for Farmington in 2025. The Supportive Housing model works because it is much more cost-effective for the state compared to group homes. This means more people on the residential waiting list can be supported and at a much younger age.

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Students at the Favarh Day School enjoy a puppet show in the basement of the Avon Congregational Church — Favarh was founded in the church in 1958

Group homes can now be available to those with more significant support needs, some of whom are floundering in institutional settings. The Supportive Housing model allows for greater independence for residents, with onsite staffing to monitor health and safety and to provide other needed supports. The model provides a large peer group of residents with IDD so that isolation doesn’t occur.

By 2025, a decade after we proposed Supportive Housing, it will have become the most abundant and preferred residential option for adults with IDD in Connecticut. It will have also begun to take a foothold in many other states that are interested in the many benefits of Supported Housing. Connecticut is leading the national movement toward Supportive Housing for people with IDD, and Favarh was instrumental in its creation.

Most satisfying accomplishment? The most satisfying accomplishments have always been the individual successes that have resulted from the unique things that Favarh provides. For example, we started an integrated theater program in 2008 that has had a huge impact on people’s lives. Actors gain confidence, focus and personal growth that often carries over in positive ways to the rest of their lives. Just recently, two of our theater

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Favarh clients enjoy various activities — like country line dancing — at Favarh’s Adaptive Wellness Center

Our strategic focus for the next 5 years includes growth, innovation and advocacy.

Regarding innovation, we are starting to convert our fleet of 65 vehicles to hybrid and EV models and we are building our EV infrastructure. We will increasingly be using smart technology and AI to help people be more independent. We are always looking for the next opportunity to innovate and create something new and exciting for the people we support.

Growth will help us to continue to meet the increasing demands for our services. Building new Supportive Housing apartments will allow more people to come off the residential waiting list. Finding more employers who understand the benefits of hiring workers with IDD will help more people be more self-sufficient. Obtaining more volunteer opportunities will allow our participants to be fully engaged in their community.

Future advocacy includes raising community awareness of what Favarh does and the needs of people with IDD and their families. Raising this same awareness among our lawmakers at the local, state and national levels is critical to improving and sustaining the important gains we have made. We are also dedicated to improving the wages of our loyal direct-care employees, who tirelessly provide essential support day in and day out to those we support.

performers auditioned for a part in a short film that will come out next summer. One of them got the part and the other got a non-speaking role in the film. Goals for the next 1-5 years?

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Volunteers: The Favarh Thrift Shop, located at 250 Albany Turnpike in Canton CT, is efficiently managed by a dedicated team of 100 volunteers. We are always eager to welcome new volunteers to join our efforts. Additionally, our organization is supported by a volunteer board that guides our mission. Each year, we actively seek volunteer actors to collaborate with the individuals in our Favarh Players theater program. This inclusive cast comes together to create a remarkable theatrical production annually. In March 2024, they will present Disney’s beloved production “The Lion King Jr.” Your participation in any of these roles is warmly encouraged and appreciated.

Anecdote that illustrates how you accomplish your mission: Heartwarming stories abound at Favarh, but perhaps the most touching is that of Lauren and Scott. They crossed paths at Favarh in their early 20s, still residing with their parents and uncertain about the future that lay ahead. Favarh served as the catalyst for their transformative journey, introducing them to lifelong friends, supported employment opportunities and numerous social interactions. Immersing themselves in Favarh’s theater program and various recreational activities, their relationship began and deepened over the years. What started as a budding romance evolved into a prolonged courtship, culminating in a historic milestone — they became the first couple in Favarh’s 65-year history to wed and establish their life together in a Favarhsupported apartment. Both Lauren and Scott receive employment supports and residential support, and both actively participate in the numerous recreation and social activities that allow people to have healthy and active lifestyles. Theirs has been an extraordinary journey and a wonderful example of Favarh’s mission to help each person achieve their personal best. Interesting stats + numbers: Approximately 80% of individuals with intellectual disabilities face unemployment or underemployment. At Favarh, we are dedicated to addressing this issue by offering suitable employment opportunities for those capable of work. For individuals who may not be able to join the workforce, we provide comprehensive day programs that incorporate community volunteer opportunities.

Volunteers at the original Favarh Thirft Store

Our organization operates with an annual budget of $17 million, enabling us to employ a dedicated team of 350 employees. Through our efforts, we provide vital support to 400 individuals and their families across 34 towns in Connecticut, primarily in the Farmington Valley region. It’s worth noting that we proudly hold the distinction of being the largest private employer in the town of Canton. How closely do you work with other agencies/nonprofits? Collaboration is at the heart of our mission, as we depend on fellow nonprofit organizations, just as they depend on us,

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These opportunities encompass activities such as delivering meals through Meals on Wheels, caring for animals at a nearby farm, and organizing books at local libraries. We continually seek out additional employment and volunteer prospects, and we warmly invite businesses to connect with us to explore how Favarh individuals can make a positive impact.

Limited hours? Feeling unimportant?

Besides donations, how is your work funded? Favarh operates as an approved provider under the Department of Developmental Services. DDS allocates funding to individuals according to their specific needs, and as a selected provider, we are committed to meeting those needs for both the individual and their families.

Make your change to us today. Simply come to see us at one of our 13 branches, or complete our Online Switch Form.

Additionally, our programs benefit from generous contributions in the form of donations, grants and corporate sponsorships. These vital contributions enable us to enhance the services we offer to the individuals we support. For instance, we’ve established an adaptive wellness center thanks to sponsorships, grants and private donations. This facility allows us to offer Favarh individuals a range of health-focused activities, all made possible through the kindness and support of our community. What was your operating budget in your most recent fiscal year?

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Bear Woods Apartments in Canton

to collectively serve our community. We have established partnerships with both the national and state Arc as well as other Connecticutbased Arc providers — organizations dedicated to supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). Furthermore, among our valued nonprofit partners are Meals on Wheels, the Farmington Library, Collinsville Church and the Focus Center for Autism in Canton. These collaborations enable us to better fulfill our shared commitment to the community we serve. What do you appreciate most about the Farmington Valley? The Farmington Valley holds a special place in my heart — it’s where I’ve spent my life. I was raised here, attended school in Simsbury, and now reside in Burlington, just a stone’s throw away on the opposite bank of the Farmington River. I have a deep appreciation for the natural splendor in our corner of Connecticut. My golden Labrador retriever, Reggie, and I relish our daily strolls through the woods, soaking in the beauty that surrounds us. Additionally, the rails-to-trails path near our office provides a wonderful opportunity to pause and enjoy some rejuvenating fresh air and exercise during the day. What constructive change would you like to see in the Valley? Fortunately, the Farmington Valley community has been incredibly welcoming to the individuals we support, extending invitations into

their businesses, homes, shops, parks, churches and schools. We are committed to fostering an inclusive environment, and we urge both residents and businesses to maintain this open-hearted approach. We encourage active engagement, whether through participation in community activities or through opportunities for paid or volunteer work. By keeping doors open and considering the talents and contributions of all, we enrich our community together. Number of employees — 350 Board officers — Augusto Russell: President • Dr. Valerie Wiseman: Vice President • Fran Traceski: Treasurer • Ashley Kalosieh: Secretary Board members — Directors: Christine Blethen, Beth Carlson, Fay Lenz, Rick Lenz, Nick Sinacori, Suzanne Sinacori — Stephen Morris : Executive Director +

Stephen E. Morris

“ Connecticut is leading the national movement toward Supportive Housing for people with IDD — and Favarh was instrumental in its creation ” — Stephen Morris Favarh executive director

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Big Hit for Small-Town World Series Hero By David K. Leff Special to Today Magazine

This year marks the 115th anniversary of a big-time World Series trivia question connected to the Farmington Valley’s smallest town ——————————————————————————— This article appeared in Canton Today Magazine in October 2018 — the debut Today Publishing publication — with a format that identified an October history highlight from Canton, the U.S. and the world ————————————————— THE FIRST PINCH HIT in World Series history was stroked by a Canton man. Playing for the Detroit Tigers, Ira Thomas stepped to the plate and singled in the bottom of the ninth off Chicago Cubs pitcher Mordecai “Three Finger” Brown on October 10, 1908. The ramshackle wooden grandstand at Detroit’s Bennett Park vibrated with cheers from over 10,000 fans. Although the Tigers lost the game and the Series to the Cubs, two days later Thomas would double and drive in a run in his team’s only Series victory that year. Born in Ballston Spa, NY, in 1881, Thomas came to Collinsville at age 17. His father was a metal forger who found work with the Collins Company. Thomas played ball in Collinsville and began his professional career in 1902 with a Hartford minor league club. He broke into the majors in 1906 with the New York Highlanders. In 10 seasons with three teams, the muscular catcher had a batting average of .242 — and in addition to his 1908 Series debut, he helped the Philadelphia Athletics win the Fall Classic in 1910 and 1911. According to a 1932 article in The Sporting News, legendary A’s manager Connie Mack once said, “Ira can get more out of a pitcher than any other catcher I ever knew — what he doesn’t know about handling pitchers isn’t worth knowing.” “Great was the rejoicing in his home town over the splendid work done by him,” The Farmington Valley Herald wrote of Thomas’ performance in the 1910 Series. 20

Fenway Park and Yankee Stadium have witnessed numerous historic World Series moments

On November 3, Thomas was given a hero’s welcome in Collinsville. A parade included Simonds Military Band and an “abundance of red fire burning” along the line of march. At a town hall reception, Thomas was lauded in speeches and presented with a cut glass pitcher and set of glasses. Dancing went on until midnight. • United States History The Ford Motor Company, founded by Henry Ford, unveiled the Model T on October 1, 1908.

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SPORTS REPORT HISTORY HIGHLIGHTS

• World History The first electric railway in the Netherlands opened on on October 1, 1908 too — linking the cities of Rotterdam and The Hague + Before his sudden passing in 2022 at 67 years old, David Leff served as Canton town historian and poet laureate Known as a Renaissance man and the award-winning author of over 10 books — including the Collinsville-focused “The Last Undiscovered Place” — Leff was beloved in Canton and beyond www.davidkleff.com

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Magna Physical Therapy & Sports Medicine Center LLC

Emergency Service 24/7 Chris & Bryan 1983

Book Your Appointment Today!

860.679.0430

www.ChristopherBryantCompany.com

CELEBRATING

AVON • CANTON www.magnapt.com

Ask your neighbors about us!

YEARS

 Family Owned & Operated Since 1983  Professional & Knowledgeable  Fully Licensed & Insured

(860) 243-3500

Proud Member of CT License #HIC0559131

SEPTIC CLEANINGS * INSTALLATIONS & REPAIRS * PUMP CHAMBERS VIDEO INSPECTIONS * SEWER CONNECTIONS * EXCAVATION & DRAINAGE

Real Estate ODALYS BEKANICH Associate Broker

Five Star Professional Award-Winning Real Estate Agent

860-965-3652 • CELL 860-676-1200 • OFFICE odalys.bekanich@cbmoves.com 290 West Main Street Avon, CT 06001 Operated by a subsidiary of NRT LLC 860-674-0300 860-693-2876 Office 860-593-9826 Cell 860-676-1400 Fax juilusandgail@cbmoves.com

JULIUS FIALKIEWICZ Associate Broker

290 West Main Street Avon, CT 06001

GAIL FIALKIEWICZ Realtor®

ColdwellBankerHomes.com Operated by a subsidiary of NRT LLC

TODAY MAGAZINE – www.TodayPublishing.net – NOVEMBER 2023

ADVERTISER Hall of Fame – TODAY Magazine • These advertising sponsors have seen the value of investing in Today Magazine’s award-winning journalism as we cover the heart of the Farmington Valley and aim to record the Valley’s underreported upside • • If you have paid for a recurring advertisement with Today Magazine but don’t see your business or organization listed, send an email so you can be added to our Advertiser Hall of Fame — advertise@todaypublishing.net • Anthology Senior Living — 860-546-8037 — Simsbury www.anthologyseniorliving.com > Location ——————————————————————————————— Avon Health Center — 860-673-2521 — Avon www.avonhealthcenter.com ——————————————————————————————— Avon Historical Society — 860-678-7621 — Avon www.avonhistoricalsociety.org ——————————————————————————————— A Teen Edge — 860-593-2822 www.ateenedge.com ——————————————————————————————— Board and Brush — 860-392-8567 — Simsbury www.boardandbrush.com/simsbury ——————————————————————————————— Canton Barn LLC — 860-693-0601 — Canton www.cantonbarn.com ——————————————————————————————— Canton Food Bank — 860-693-5811 — Canton www.townofcantonct.org ——————————————————————————————— Carmon Funeral Homes — 860-673-8610 www.carmonfuneralhome.com ——————————————————————————————— Carol Cole Real Estate — 860-212-0687 — Canton www.carolcolerealestate.com ——————————————————————————————— Cherry Brook Health Care Center — 860-693-7777 — Canton www.cherrybrookhcc.com ——————————————————————————————— Christensen Insurance — 860-651-8236 — Simsbury www.insuranceagentswhocare.com ——————————————————————————————— Christopher Bryant Co. — 860-243-3500 — Bloomfield www.thechristopherbryantcompany.com ——————————————————————————————— Collinsville Bank — 860-693-6935 — Canton www.collinsvillebank.com ——————————————————————————————— Connecticut Dance Academy — 860-707-4198 — Canton www.ctdanceacademy.com ——————————————————————————————— Connecticut Headshots — 860-263-9277 — Avon www.connecticutheadshots.com ——————————————————————————————— Dynamic Auto Works — 860-693-6359 — Canton www.facebook.com/DynamicAutoCanton ——————————————————————————————— Erica Maglieri: Realtor — 860-324-6842 bhhsneproperties.com/real-estate-agent/757/erica-maglieri ——————————————————————————————— Fresh Start Pallet Products — 860-266-5726 — Hartford www.freshstartpalletproducts.org 26

NOVEMBER 2023 – www.TodayPublishing.net – TODAY MAGAZINE

——————————————————————————————— Granby-Simsbury Chamber of Commerce — 860-651-7307 www.simsburycoc.org ——————————————————————————————— Green Door Restaurant — 860-693-9762 — Canton www.41bridgestreet.com ——————————————————————————————— Habitat for Humanity — 860-541-2208 — Hartford www.hfhncc.org ——————————————————————————————— Harris Home Improvement — 860-817-7191 — Granby www.harrishomeimprovement.net ——————————————————————————————— Hartford Symphony Orchestra — 860-246-8742 — Hartford www.hartfordsymphony.org ——————————————————————————————— HealthMarkets Insurance — 860-307-1128 — Torrington www.healthmarkets.com — Mel Brickman ——————————————————————————————— Hulme & Sweeney Pianos — 860-408-4895 — Simsbury www.hulmesweeneypianoservice.com ——————————————————————————————— Karedigs.com — 860-379-4340 — Barkhamsted www.karedigs.com ——————————————————————————————— Kerian Home Health Care — 860-851-6267 — Simsbury www.keriancares.com ——————————————————————————————— Kevin Witkos: State Senator ——————————————————————————————— Landscape Solutions — 860-329-2014 — New Hartford www.landscapesolutionsct.com ——————————————————————————————— Leslee Hill for State Representative ——————————————————————————————— Lifetime Family Dentistry — 860-605-2075 — Collinsville www.lifetimefamilydentistryct.com ——————————————————————————————— Linda Kessler: Realtor — 860-836-6172 — Avon www.coldwellbankerhomes.com > Agents ——————————————————————————————— Liza Sivek Marketing — 203-278-5492 www.lizasivekmarketing.com ——————————————————————————————— Maglieri Construction — 860-242-0298 — Bloomfield www.maglieri-construction.com ——————————————————————————————— Magna Physical Therapy — 860-679-0430 — Avon www.magnapt.com ——————————————————————————————— Maher’s Paint & Wallpaper — 860-678-1200 — Avon + Simsbury www.maherspaintandwallpaper.com ———————————————————————————————

Make It GF — 860-693-1300 — Canton www.makeitgf.com ——————————————————————————————— Mandel Vilar Press — 806-790-4731 — Simsbury www.mvpublishers.org ——————————————————————————————— Massage Envy — 860-693-8000 — Canton www.massageenvy.com > Locations ——————————————————————————————— The Master’s School — 860-651-9361 — West Simsbury www.masterschool.org ——————————————————————————————— McLean — 860-658-3786 — Simsbury www.mcleancare.org ——————————————————————————————— Nails of Envy — formerly Canton + Avon ——————————————————————————————— Northwest Community Bank — 860-379-7561 www.nwcommunitybank.com ——————————————————————————————— Odalys Bekanich: Realtor — 860-965-3652 — Avon www.coldwellbankerhomes.com > Agents ——————————————————————————————— Peggy’s Personalized Promos — 860-379-7775 — New Hartford www.peggys.biz ——————————————————————————————— Planning Partners LLC — 860-693-9916 — Canton www.planningpartner.com ——————————————————————————————— Raimie Weber Jewelry — 860-409-3400 — Avon www.rweberjewelry.com ——————————————————————————————— Randy Brolo: Book Author www.lulu.com > Spirit of Delilah ——————————————————————————————— Ravenswood Natural Health — 860-264-1587 — Simsbury www.ravenswoodnaturalhealth.com ——————————————————————————————— Red Bison General Contractor — 860-810-8581 — Hartford

——————————————————————————————— Up Top Barbershop — 860-658-4499 — Simsbury www.booksy.com > Up Top Barbershop ——————————————————————————————— Vincent Funeral Homes — 860-693-0251 www.vincentfuneralhome.com ——————————————————————————————— Vincent Tully: Realtor — 860-214-3030 www.coldwellbankerhomes.com > Agent ——————————————————————————————— Welden Hardware — 860-658-4078 — Simsbury www.weldenhardware.com ——————————————————————————————— William Raveis — 860-693-2987 — Avon www.raveis.com/agentfind.asp?smart=1 ——————————————————————————————— The Village for Families & Children — 860-236-4511 — Hartford www.thevillage.org/second-chance-shops ——————————————————————————————— virtualens Designs — 860-348-6902 — Simsbury www.virtualens.art ———————————————————————————————

www.nextdoor.com/pages/red-bison-general-contractor-llc-hartford-ct

——————————————————————————————— Richman Business Brokerage — 860-408-9177 — Simsbury www.richmanbusiness.com — formerly The Deal Team ——————————————————————————————— Stone Man Masonry — 860-693-4637 — Canton www.facebook.com/StoneManMasonryCT ——————————————————————————————— Suburban Sanitation Service — 860-673-3078 — Canton www.subsanserv.com ——————————————————————————————— Tom Kutz Photography — 860-693-6254 — Canton www.tomkutzphoto.com ——————————————————————————————— Trading Post — 860-693-4679 — Canton www.tradingpostmusic.com ——————————————————————————————— Transition Fitness Center — 860-398-1449 — Canton www.transition-fitness-center.business.site ——————————————————————————————— UConn Health — 860-658-8750 www.health.uconn.edu TODAY MAGAZINE – www.TodayPublishing.net – NOVEMBER 2023