Glastonbury, CT May 2024

May

May, the month of Mother's Day, is when we here at Glastonbury Lifestyle pay homage to women with our Women's Issue and look at myriad roles they play, as mothers, business leaders, volunteers and innovators.

For instance, we have a story this month about Heather Colp, owner of Colp Design and Consulting here in Glastonbury. The company provides comprehensive project management services in the construc tion industry and it represents a "second act" of sorts for Heather, an interior design professional who for years worked in the male-dominated construction industry and continues to do so with her new venture.

We also spoke with the leaders of the Junior League of Hartford, a nonprofit organization that for more than a century has promoted volunteerism and provides an array of programs to help women and promote the role of women in volunteerism.

In our Inspired By feature we have a story about the  Aurora Women and Girls Foundation which empowers women through a multi-faceted approach of research, community engagement, and strategic grant-making for programs that increases economic security, educational attainment, and leadership for women in the region.

In a similar vein, the Beauty Bridge Foundation, a nonprofit beauty salon, seeks to boost the spirits of women in need by providing free hair and beauty services.

Lastly, we spoke with Annisa Teich, founder of The Small Business Collective, Coworking West Hartford, and Windsorworx about the novel business services she and her mother provide.

We hope you have a Happy Mother's Day and that you enjoy this issue of Glastonbury Lifestyle Magazine.

GARY PERRELLI, PUBLISHER @GLASTONBURYLIFESTYLE

May 2024

PUBLISHER

Gary Perrelli | gary.perrelli@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

Eileen McNamara eileen.mcnamara@citylifestyle.com

ACCOUNT MANAGER

Jill Barry | jill.barry@citylifestyle.com

PUBLISHER ASSISTANT

Ivy Perrelli | ivy.perrelli@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Brian Boyer, Lucinda Jamison, Annisa Teich

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Brian Ambrose, Allison Bellucci, Greg Cormier

-Cormier Media, Emmanuel SanchezOne Take Media, Carrie Draghi, Cheyney Barrieau, Defining Studios

Corporate Team

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson

TECHNICAL DIRECTOR Josh Klein

AD DESIGNER Mary Albers

LAYOUT DESIGNER Emily Lisenbee

Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com/franchise.

city scene

WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

1-7: The CT River Valley Chamber recently hosted a Business After Hours at Healthtrax. Photography by Brian Ambrose

8-14: Scenes from The Junior League of Hartford's Annual Bubbly & Bites "Friend-Raiser." Photography by The Junior League of Hartford

15-21: The Glastonbury and West Hartford Lifestyle Magazines' Reader's Choice party at the Farmington Polo Club. Photography by Brian Ambrose

CUSTOM FRAMING GALLERY WALLS

PHOTO RESTORATION SCANNING

PHOTO PRINTING FINE ART PRINTING

business monthly

Seniors Job Bank Announces Working Into Retirement Workshop

The Seniors Job Bank, a nonprofit organization that helps people over 50 find jobs, is offering a free, half-day workshop on what you need to know to prepare for your "encore career." In the current job market, hiring managers are most interested in candidates with experience and commitment and the Job Bank can help you connect with them.  For more information call 860.521.3210 or visit Seniorsjobbankct.org.

Watkinson Basketball Teams Compete in New England Tournament

Hartford’s oldest independent day school for grades 6-12/PG, is pleased to announce that both the Girls and Boys Varsity Basketball Teams qualified for the New England Prep School Athletic Council (NEPSAC) Tournament. Both teams made it to the semifinals of the tournament, which was held in March. Watkinson girls won the Championship in 2023. Visit Watkinson.org for information.

Parisian Salon and Day Spa Unveils New Goldwell Color System

Parisian Salon and Day Spa now offers the CLICS hair color system, the industry’s first AI-enabled digital hair color studio which can design, measure, and dispense custom hair color with just a few "CLICS." It allows stylists to be creative in their formulations and provides the ability to exactly replicate the same hair color with each visit. "Partnering with Goldwell allows us to create, deliver and provide the highest level of quality." Visit Parisiandayspa.net.

Photography by Carrie Draghi

business monthly

CT Breast Health Initiative Names

"Race in the Park" Co-Chairs

The CT Breast Health Initiative has named this year's co-chairs of its annual Race in the Park breast cancer fundraiser May 11. The co-chairs are: Anees B. Chagpar, Professor of Surgery at Yale School of Medicine; Liisa Kuhn, Associate Department head of Biomedical Engineering at UCONN Health, Christina Metcalf, Surgical Oncologist and Director of Breast Surgery at Saint Francis Hospital; and Jean M. Weigert, M.D., with Jefferson Radiology PC in Hartford. Visit Ctbhi.org/the-race for information.

Farmington Polo Club Kicks Off Its 2024 Season

The Farmington Polo Club has released its 2024 Season polo and events schedule. The equestrian facility and polo grounds venue kicked off the season with a Spring Celebration on March 23 and will host its first polo match, the Flower Cup, on May 18. The club also hosts equestrian and polo camps for kids. For tickets and information visit Farmingtonpoloclub.com.

Chamber Hires Member Services Director

The Connecticut River Valley Chamber of Commerce has  appointed Rebecca Jost as the new Director of Member Services. Ms. Jost spent several years in the non-profit industry specific to membership and special events. Prior to joining the CT River Valley Chamber of Commerce, she held positions in Development for The Greater Hartford Arts Council in Hartford, CT, as well as The Garde Arts Center in New London. Visit CRVChamber.org.

Scan to read more Scan

Photography by Brian Ambrose

ARTICLE BY EILEEN M. MCNAMARA

BY EMMANUEL SANCHEZ, GREG CORMIER

THE OWNER OF COLP DESIGN & CONSULTING IS FORGING A NEW PATH IN THE CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY

HEATHER

PHOTOGRAPHY

Heather Colp

Heather Colp is no stranger to working in a male-dominated industry.

Twenty-five years ago, Heather, who lives in Glastonbury with her husband, David, and the couple’s two boys, ages 10 and 9, graduated college with a bachelor’s degree in interior design,

experience in the construction industry and launched a business even more unique for a woman.

She opened Colp Design & Consulting, a project management and owner’s representative firm where she oversees commercial and residential

I PRIDE MYSELF ON BEING TRANSPARENT, OPEN AND FAIR.

earned her license, and entered a field in construction, that at the time, was largely dominated by men.

Unlike interior decorators, interior design is a tradecraft defined as “creating spaces that anticipate our needs while pulling from a broad set of skills and technical knowledge.”

“I was definitely one of the few women in the field of construction.”

Heather says.  “Licensed interior designers tend to focus more on the nuts and bolts of interiors. We work with contractors, architects, engineers, craftsmen, and property owners to ensure the sustainability and safety of the interiors of where we live, work and play.”

In 2022, after working in China for nearly 20 years with her architect-husband on the building of a large commercial and manufacturing spaces for Corning Inc., the couple returned home with their two children and Heather decided to build on her

building projects, coordinating all elements of the projects.

“The interior design aspects are now a small portion of what I offer. As a project manager I work with architects and general contractors, providing continuous coordination on projects large and small, holding weekly meetings, providing progress reports to the client, and handling the flow of pay requisitions, to just name a few things. Basically, I handle the day-to-day stresses that the owners of these projects either don’t want to deal with or don’t have the expertise to deal with. It’s a real challenge bringing everyone together on building projects under one umbrella. This is where I excel in being able to keep everyone on the same page, and the lines of communication open”

Some of her more recent projects included overseeing the conversion of a 40,000 square-foot former factory building into a self-storage facility, the

“I WAS DEFINITELY ONE OF THE FEW WOMEN IN THE FIELD OF CONSTRUCTION.”

renovation of a 17,000 square-foot commercial space for a national payroll firm and a $3 million commercial construction project for a health care firm.

Her experience as an interior designer, a business owner, a collaborator with architects on commercial buildings, and even as a wife and mother, means she brings a unique perspective to her job as a project manager.

“I’ve worked on all sides of the table. I have a perspective that a lot of people don’t have and I pride myself on being transparent, open and fair.”

Recalibrating her life and business after returning from China represented a new phase of her professional life, one she says she is proud that her children recognize was a major undertaking for a woman making career inroads later in life.

“My boys are now seeing that it’s possible for me to start from scratch later in life and that I’m building a successful business. I’ve launched a second career and they have reached an age where they see that and they understand what that means.”

CONTACT:

Colp Design and Consulting LLC

2842 Main St., Suite 288

Phone: 860-430-6815

Online: Colpdesignandconsulting.com

Email: Heather@Colpdesignandconsulting.com

BEAUTY BRIDGE: Transforming Lives

HARTFORD

THE

NONPROFIT OFFERS FREE SERVICES TO WOMEN IN NEED

ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY ALLISON BELLUCCI

Saasha Pfefka, co-owner of Beauty Bridge Foundation.

Located in the heart of Hartford, Beauty Bridge salon is more than just a hair care and beauty business — it’s a sanctuary of hope and transformation for many women.

Founded by the mother-daughter team of Saasha Plefka and Dede Caldwell, two women with a vision and a passion for giving back, Beauty Bridge is rewriting the narrative of beauty and empowerment.

Beauty Bridge is a nonprofit salon that provides a variety of beauty and haircare services for women in need. Saasha and Dede, both of whom have worked in the beauty and haircare industry for many years and own their own beauty salons, developed the concept in the summer of 2020, amidst the challenges of the pandemic.

“We wanted to do more give-back work when we reopened,” Saasha recalls. “We dreamed of a nonprofit salon—a place where women in need could receive toprate services without financial barriers.”

A native of San Diego who now calls Connecticut home, Saasha shares her journey from esthetician to the driving force behind Beauty Bridge.

“I moved to Connecticut 27 years ago for my first job,” Saasha explains. “Little did I know it would lead me to this beautiful endeavor.”

Growing up in a salon environment under the guidance of her mother, Saasha was immersed in the world of beauty and compassion since childhood. Witnessing firsthand the transformative power of a simple haircut or a moment of pampering, Saasha envisioned a space where beauty wasn’t just skin deep—it was a catalyst for change.

In 2021, Beauty Bridge opened its first salon in Sarasota, Florida, followed by the second one here in Hartford. Their unique hybrid model blends profit with purpose, offering paid services alongside volunteer-driven initiatives.

“Our clients are the people who pay, and our guests are the people who are coming in for services that they’re

“Our goal is to empower these women, one transformation at a time.”

not paying for,” Saasha explains. “Our guests are coming from partner organizations like Interval House and YWCA.”

The nonprofit’s impact goes beyond haircuts and facials. Saasha recounts heartwarming moments where women, facing adversity, found solace and confidence within the salon’s walls.

“One woman said to me, ‘I feel like I don’t have to hide anymore.’ That’s the power of beauty—it’s about reclaiming one’s identity and self-worth.”

Beauty Bridge reaches women rebuilding their lives after addiction, trauma, or domestic violence.

“We see ourselves as a piece of the puzzle,” Saasha reflects. “Our goal is to empower these women, one transformation at a time.”

Central to its success is its community-driven approach. Numerous stylists and estheticians volunteer with the organization.

“Our volunteers are the heartbeat of Beauty Bridge,” Saasha says.

Saasha envisions Beauty Bridge evolving into a broader organization, one that would host workshops, classes, and events that foster creativity and connection.

“My ultimate goal, and we have seen this in our Florida location, is that some of our guests actually become clients,” Saasha adds. “Many of them are working on rebuilding their lives and don’t necessarily want free services. They

want to be able to pamper themselves, but they’re at a point where they don’t have that extra income.”

To support Beauty Bridge’s mission, Saasha encourages financial donations through their website or PayPal. Additionally, the salon accepts donations of toiletries, hair care products, purses, and all other new or lightly-used items that women would need and enjoy.

Volunteer stylists have also organized donation drives with their clients to gather essential items for those in need. Non-hairdressers can also contribute by indulging in Beauty Bridge’s pampering services, knowing that their support helps sustain the business model while making a meaningful difference in the lives of women seeking transformation and empowerment.

As Beauty Bridge continues to grow, Saasha remains grounded in her mission: to redefine beauty as a force for good. “Beauty isn’t a luxury—it’s a fundamental expression of self-worth.”

Beauty Bridge

1429 Park St, Suite 208, Hartford 860-778-3548

Online: Beautybridge.org

Email: beautybridgehartford@gmail.com

On Facebook: @beautybridgefoundation

On Instagram: @beautybridgehartford

ARTICLE BY LUCINDA JAMISON | PHOTOGRAPHY BY DEFINING STUDIOS

INVESTING IN WOMEN

The Aurora Women and Girls Foundation

In Greater Hartford, the Aurora Women and Girls Foundation is a beacon of hope and empowerment for Connecticut women and girls.

Dedicated to catalyzing positive change by advocating for gender equality and community development, the Aurora Women and Girls Foundation has a multi-faceted approach of datadriven research, community engagement, and strategic grantmaking that increases economic security, educational attainment, and leadership for women in the region.

At the helm of Aurora is Executive Director, Jennifer Steadman, whose leadership and dedication have been instrumental in the foundation’s success. With seven years of service, Jennifer’s journey—from board member to Executive Director— underscores the passion and commitment driving Aurora’s work. Steadman shared insights into the organization’s approach to fostering empowerment by highlighting Aurora’s targeted grantmaking.

“We are so proud that by the end of 2024, $2,115,000  worth of funding will have gone directly into the community and that the Foundation has shown consistent growth since 2000,” Steadman stated.

West Hartford Mayor Shari Cantor attended the Aurora Foundation’s Luminary Event in 2023.

A recent Womens Leadership Forum.

The foundation’s commitment to educational advancement provides mentorship, financial aid, and support services to marginalized young women. Deeply invested in empowering disadvantaged women and girls, the foundation focuses on creating educational opportunities, especially for low-income single mothers and women of color, to break cycles of poverty and inequality.

Aurora-funded college success programs aim for multi-generational change by supporting women in higher education. Events like the annual Women’s Leadership Forum connect students with professionals, expanding career possibilities. The foundation’s educational initiatives extend beyond traditional realms,

including funding support programs for immigrant and refugee college students at the Hartford Public Library. By empowering women to pursue education while navigating familial and societal challenges, Aurora fosters lasting generational change.

Research remains pivotal for Aurora in understanding and addressing gender disparities. By funding comprehensive research projects and data-driven initiatives, the Foundation equips nonprofits and policymakers with the evidence-based insights needed to advocate for meaningful change. Steadman underscores the importance of research in shaping strategic priorities and amplifying the voices of marginalized communities. Aurora’s research projects inform program improvements and

The Barriers Can’t Stop Us Program at the foundation’s Leadership Forum.

demonstrate the need for support. “Data helps make the needs of women and girls visible and impossible to ignore,” she said.

Jennifer emphasizes the critical role of philanthropy in driving social change.

May is an ideal time to spotlight Aurora’s Women’s Giving Circle, an annual event held throughout the month.” This initiative inspires women to pool their funds and make grants to innovative organizations serving women and girls in the community—a tangible way for individuals to make a difference. By harnessing the collective power of philanthropy, The Aurora Foundation fosters a sense of community and solidarity among supporters, amplifying the impact of their contributions.

“The Aurora Foundation demonstrates the influence of collective action, showing that by investing in women and girls, we invest in the future of our communities.” As Steadman aptly summarizes, “Women are so powerful in philanthropy. That’s what we hear from our students too—that’s their first impulse: How can I give back? How can I help? And I think that’s how we build stronger communities.”

Looking ahead, Aurora remains committed to advancing gender equity and fostering inclusive communities. With visionary leadership and dedicated supporters, the foundation is poised to continue its transformative work, creating a brighter future for women and girls in Greater Hartford.

Visit Aurorafoundation.org for more information.

ABOUT THE AURORA FOUNDATION

• Mission: The Aurora Women and Girls Foundation leverages resources to increase economic security, education, and leadership for women and girls.

• Aurora's Women’s Giving Circle is a group of women who pool their resources to process grant money to organizations supporting women and girls in Greater Hartford.

Members of the Aurora Foundation’s Board of Directors.

Students at the foundation’s 2023 Luminary event.

The Junior League of Hartford

FOR MORE THAN A CENTURY THE GROUP HAS PROMOTED WOMEN AND VOLUNTEERISM

ARTICLE BY BRIAN BOYER

PHOTOGRAPHY BY THE JUNIOR LEAGUE OF HARTFORD

With a rich history spanning more than a hundred years, the Junior League of Hartford is a driving force behind numerous impactful projects and initiatives aimed at enhancing the lives of people and families in the Greater Hartford area.

Founded in 1921 and based in West Hartford, the Junior League is a womens organization comprised of civic leaders committed to promoting volunteerism, developing the potential of women and improving the community through effective action and leadership of trained volunteers. Guided by a vision of fostering lasting change and creating a better tomorrow, Junior League members embody the spirit of service and collaboration in all its endeavors.

“At the Junior League of Hartford, we believe in the power of collective action and the strength of our community,” says Kelly Sellew, Director of the Communications Council at the Junior League. “Through our diverse projects and initiatives, we aim to address critical issues facing our region and make a tangible difference in the lives of those we serve.”

One of the cornerstone fundraising initiatives of the Junior League is the highly anticipated Show House event. This biennial showcase of design excellence brings together top designers, decorators and artisans to transform a notable Hartford-area residence into a stunning masterpiece. Proceeds from the Show House directly support the league’s community programs, empowering the organization to continue its vital work in addressing the impacts of systemic poverty and providing resources to local community partners who address these needs. The next Show House will be in the Spring of 2025.

The league also partners annually with select nonprofits to make meaningful impacts in the Greater Hartford region. This year, the Junior League’s civic engagement includes Journey Home’s Hand Up Program and The Diaper Bank of Connecticut. By supporting the Hand Up

Program, the group aims to provide essential furniture to individuals transitioning out of homelessness, ensuring they can furnish their new apartments with dignity.

Additionally, its involvement with The Diaper Bank of Connecticut allows it to address basic health needs by distributing diapers and supplies to mothers and families in need.

“These partnerships not only align with our mission but also offer our volunteers opportunities to make a difference in the community while creating positive experiences for all involved,” Kelly says. “We look forward to the lasting impact and meaningful connections these initiatives will bring.”

The nonprofit also hosts the Volunteer-a-Thon, an annual event that mobilizes volunteers for a day of service benefiting local nonprofits and community organizations. This year’s Volunteer-a-Thon is April 26-27th.

“The Volunteer-a-Thon is a testament to the collective impact we can achieve when we come together with a shared purpose,” Kelly says. “It’s inspiring to see our members and community partners unite to tackle pressing needs and create positive change.”

Beyond philanthropic initiatives, the league offers an invaluable opportunity for women to become catalysts for change through membership. With new member training classes held twice a year, aspiring volunteers have the chance to join a vibrant community of like-minded individuals dedicated to making a difference. Aspiring members can register for the upcoming fall new member class through the league’s website, taking the first step toward a rewarding journey of service and leadership.

Anyone interested in supporting Volunteer-a-Thon, the organization is accepting donations to fund essential supplies, resources, and outreach efforts. Interested donors can visit the Volunteer-a-Thon page on the league’s website, Hartford.jl.org, to contribute.

Through our diverse projects and initiatives, we aim to address critical issues facing our region and make a tangible difference in the lives of those we serve.

Small Businesses, Big Impact

Three Women-owned Ventures are Reshaping the Small Business Scene in Central Connecticut

Since 2017 the mother-daughter team of Annisa Teich and Annette Farese have made Central Connecticut, and West Hartford in particular, the focal point of their life and work.

Small businesses are at the heart of Annisa and Annette’s endeavors. Their family has operated an array of businesses ranging from baking to bookkeeping and even retail. With that kind of

entrepreneurship in their blood, it’s no surprise that after moving to West Hartford to start a family, Annisa’s first local business soon followed.

The Small Business Collective - a micro-business focused marketing agency provides high-level marketing strategy at a fraction of the cost of traditional agencies.

ARTICLE BY ANNISA TEICH | PHOTOGRAPHY BY THE FLASH LADY

Annette Farese

Sally Lyle, an employee at the Small Business Collective.

Annisa Teich

“I like to say we offer DIY-plus services for the smallest of businesses,” Annisa says. “We leverage platforms and programs like Squarespace, Canva, and Hubspot, that give us a great starting point and then we layer on incredible strategy, design, copywriting, operational automations and coaching to create a cohesive, consistent system that supports their growth. To top it off, we do the unthinkable in our industry… we train our clients how to use everything we’ve leveraged to support them and then hand it all off - no strings attached.”

In late 2022, Account Director Sally Lyle joined The Small Business Collective. She provides day-to-day client support and is a fixture at community events throughout the region.

“It’s incredibly rewarding to be a part of the small business community in ways that continue to surprise me,” Sally says. “We work very collaboratively with our clients and often become very close - so we act as both marketing experts implementing strategic activities and cheerleaders in the day to day trials and tribulations of their entrepreneurial lives.”

Sally recently relocated to Roanoke, Virginia where she is operating the agency’s second local hub near her hometown and already making an incredible impact on the community.

Its clients have included businesses such as Nutmeg & Honey, Harmonious Homesteads, Sally and Bob’s, Kate & Maggie Literacy Consultants, the West Hartford Gift Shop at the Noah Webster House, and West Hartford Apothecary.

The collective was founded out of West Hartford Coworking on Farmington Avenue. Founder John Vasellina opened the small space in 2016 and in 2017, Annisa took over its marketing and dayto-day operations.  By year’s end, she and Annette purchased the business and relocated it across town to the burgeoning New Park Avenue neighborhood where it remains today.

West Hartford Coworking provides a mix of space and business services essential to the growth of businesses. The community of daily coworkers and occasional guests thrives in an environment built on family-style hospitality and comfort.

“Maybe it’s the Italian-American in me, but hospitality is an important way we show love and support and we power the coworking space with that same mentality,” Annette says.

West Hartford Coworking supplies its clients with several free amenities, including high-speed Wi-Fi, copying and printing, coffee, and on-site parking. It also offers a variety of space for businesses and remote professionals, including conference rooms by the hour, private office space by the day or leases for longer-term use.

In September, the mother-daughter duo opened their second location - Windsor Worx - next to the train station in Windsor Center. The two coworking spaces now act symbiotically; clients can access both and membership levels include allowances for dual space usage.

“By encouraging movement between the two spaces within Greater Hartford, we create opportunities for West Hartford neighboring businesses to grow into the Windsor area, and vice- versa,” Annisa says.

For more information about these female, family-led organizations, visit  Thesmallbusinesscollective.com, Westhartfordcoworking.com  or Windsorworx.com.

Annisa Teich and Annette Farese

Common Issues & Procedures

Athletes’ Foot + Fungal Toenails

Invasive Bunion Surgery

+ Wounds

Hammertoe

Ingrown Toenails

Warts

Heel Pain

HANDMADE

BREAKING BREAD

ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES

Making homemade bread is coming back, and while the convenience of buying a pre-made loaf is readily available, there is nothing like the taste of a warm, homemade loaf right out of the oven. This easy-to-follow recipe is exploding with flavor and is simple to make.

FOCACCIA

This recipe is quick and easy to make with just a few simple steps. It tastes great on its own, but dipping it in olive oil infused with fresh herbs adds an extra level of flavor.

INGREDIENTS:

• 1 ¾ cups warm water

• 2 ½ teaspoons sugar

• 1 package active dry yeast

• 4 cups flour

• 2 teaspoons salt

• 4 tablespoons olive oil

• Optional:

• Fresh rosemary

• Coarse sea salt

• Fresh pressed garlic

INSTRUCTIONS:

Use a stand mixer with a fitted dough hook, and stir together the water and sugar. Sprinkle the yeast on top and stir again. Set mixture aside for 5 minutes. Mixture should be foamy. Next, add the flour and salt and mix on low until a shaggy dough forms. Increase speed and mix for an additional 4-5 minutes. Brush a large bowl with olive oil. Transfer the dough to the bowl and cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a damp towel. Set aside for about 1 to 1 ½ hours until the dough has doubled in size.

Brush a 9x13-inch baking dish with 2 tablespoons of oil. Uncover the dough and rub hands with olive oil. Slide your hands under the dough and fold it onto itself. Continue to work your way around the edge of the bowl, folding the dough onto itself until there is a ball that you can lift from the bowl. Place the dough in the prepared pan and press the dough to the edges. Cover the pan with plastic wrap or a damp towel and set aside to rise for about 45 minutes until the dough has doubled in size.

Preheat the oven to 425°F. Drizzle the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil over the dough. Rub your hands with olive oil and use your fingers to make indentions on the surface of the dough. Sprinkle it with salt and rosemary and any desired toppings. Bake for 20-30 minutes or until golden brown.

2 5 %

5 0 % O F

Watkinson School Hosts Campus Tours

Watkinson School, 180 Bloomfield Ave., Hartford | 9:00 AM

Watkinson School will host an information session beginning at 9 a.m. with registration and refreshments. You’ll have the opportunity to meet faculty and school leaders, tour the 40-acre campus, see classes in session and hear from a panel of current students. Visit Watkinson.org for more information or to schedule a private tour.

MAY 3RD

Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus

XL Center, 1 Civic Center Plaza, Hartford | 7:00 PM

The circus is coming to town!  The Ringling Bros.and Barnum & Bailey Circus kicks off Friday, May 3 and runs throughout the weekend. The immersive  entertainment experience is filled with incredible feats that push the limits of human potential. The reimagined American Icon will captivate families through a 360-degree experience that brings fans into the action.Visit Xlcenter.com/events for more information.

MAY 4TH

Magnolia Soap Grand Opening

2941 Main St. | 11:00 AM

Magnolia Soap & Bath Co., a new retail store that makes soaps on-site, hosts its Grand Opening May 4&5. There will be door prizes, including a $500 shopping spree, free soap for a year, and a gift basket worth $50. In addition, the first 50 people to spend $50 or more will receive free laundry soap sampler packets. Visit Mymagnoliasoap.com/glastonbury.

MAY 4TH

Tavern Night

Welles-Shipman-Ward House, 972 Main St., South Glastonbury | 5:00 PM

The Historical Society of Glastonbury is inviting guests to Tavern Night at the Welles-Shipman-Ward House from 5 -7 p.m.  Visit the “historic tavern” to enjoy a hearth-made meal and be entertained by guests who arrive by stagecoach. Hear the guest’s stories and gossip. The cost is $60 and reservations are required. Email julie.thompson.hsg@gmail.com

MAY 5TH

Harmonic Blooms

Hops on the Hill Farm Brewery, 275 Dug Road, South Glastonbury | 1:00 PM

Join Harmonic Blooms of Glastonbury for a relaxing afternoon of sipping cervezas and creating your own succulent planter arrangement. Designed for all skill levels, tickets are $60 per person and include one free drink. Email info@harmonicblooms.com for information.

MAY 7TH

Reimagining Retirement

Hartford Foundation for Public Giving, 10 Columbus Blvd., Hartford | 1:00 PM

Third Age Initiative will host a Re-imagining Retirement Workshop with Ashley Rigby, Retirement Coach and Founder of Goldinage, from 1-4 p.m. Free to Third Age Initiative current participants and alumni. Prospective participants may attend on a space available basis. Visit Leadershipgh.org/third-age-initiative  to learn more.

events

CONTINUED

MAY 9TH

First Annual Glastonbury Holocaust Evening

First Church of Christ, 2183 Main St. | 7:00 PM

Sponsored by the Glastonbury Holocaust Remembrance Project, which seeks to build awareness about hate, discrimination, violence and divisiveness, this event will include several speakers, including Rabbi Philip Lazowski of West Hartford. The winners of the project's holocaust essay contest will also be announced. Visit GHRP.net for information.

MAY 9TH

Cocktails & Carats

DeRosa Fine Diamonds & Custom Jewelry, 49 Welles St., Suite 214 | 6:00 PM

DeRosa Fine Diamonds & Custom Jewelry is hosting a Mother's Day gathering inside its showrooms in the Shoppes at Fox Run shopping center from 6-8 p.m. "Come by for some bubbly, treats and all things sparkly!" To RSVP call 203-907-8633.

MAY 18TH

Encore Performance of Madly Marvelous: A Retro Bash

The Hartford Club, 46 Prospect St., Hartford | 6:00 PM

Proceeds from this fundraiser will help keep theatre alive and bring programs to children, youth, and schools through Playhouse Theatre Academy. This year, we’re going retro (think Mad Men & The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel) which will be fully-realized through all aspects of this event. Join us as a Sponsor or Advertiser for this unforgettable evening of fine dining, dancing, live and silent auctions. Visit Playhouseonpark.org.

MAY 19TH

Wild Notes Concert

St. James' Episcopal Church, 2584 Main St. | 4:00 PM

St. James' Episcopal Church will host is a concert by the musical trio Wild Notes on to benefit Hawkwing, a 501(c)(3) organization based in Glastonbury dedicated to changing the lives and healing the hearts of the Cheyenne River Sioux/Lakota Tribe in South Dakota. Suggested donation is $20 per person. Visit Stjamesglastonbury.org.

MAY 21ST

Historical Reenactment by Kevin Johnson

First Church Congregational, 2183 Main St. | 7:00 PM

The Historical Society of Glastonbury’s Membership Meeting (Open to the Public) is from 7 -8 p.m. and will include a presentation by Kevin Johnson from the Connecticut State Library. Kevin will give his final reenactment as William Webb, an African-American soldier of the 29th Connecticut Regiment of the Civil War.  This event is free. Visit Hsgct.org for information.

MAY 21ST

Gluten Free Dinner With Cotton Hollow

Cotton Hollow Kitchen, 840 Main St., South Glastonbury | 6:30 PM

Cotton Hollow Kitchen and Dee's One Smart Cookie are partnering to bring you a Gluten Free Dining Experience.  There will be multiple courses paired with your choice of either gluten-free cocktails or beer. For more information and to make a reservation visit Cottonhollowkitchen.com or call 860-781-8555.  Limited number of seats available.

LOVE IN VERONA