GLASTONBURY REGION HAS MANY EXCELLENT HIKING AREAS.
Refresh Your Outdoor Space
LIFESTYLE LETTER
July: Explore
I’m writing to share some personal news—after five wonderful years, I’ve decided to retire from Glastonbury and West Hartford Lifestyle. While I’ll miss the magazine business and all of the friends I’ve made along the way, I’m really looking forward to traveling with my wife, spending more time with my children and grandchildren and playing more golf. As you can imagine, this was a difficult decision with many mixed emotions. It’s been an absolute pleasure publishing this magazine for the community. I’m deeply grateful for your trust over the years.
I’m also excited to introduce you to the new publisher, Sri Ramachandran. Sri and his wife, Jaye Subramanian, have called Connecticut home for the last 15 years. They are raising their twin 6-year-old daughters here, Taara and Vedha, and love being part of this vibrant area. He's excited to embark on this new endeavor and I'm thrilled that our magazines are in such good hands.
July is our Explore Issue and we have several stories this month that explore that theme!
We spoke with the folks at Pratt & Whitney in East Hartford because the company, which makes aircraft engines, is celebrating its 100th Anniversary this year. Pratt & Whitney's engines revolutionized air travel and helped millions of people over the decades explore the globe!
Summer is the season to get outside and explore the natural world so we have an article this month about the best hiking areas in our town and across the state, including Cotton Hollow Preserve in South Glastonbury,
For our Inspired By feature we spoke with KC Sullivan, the CEO and President of CNBC. KC grew up here in Glastonbury and he talked to us about how his upbringing and family influenced him and his rise to the top of one of the biggest national news networks.
We also have a story that explores the development of South Glastonbury as a bustling business district, with boutiques, a coffee roasters, and several popular restaurants, as well as a historic local ferry and park.
Lastly, we have several summer drink recipes you can mix up for your next summer party with organic ingredients from your own garden.
We hope you enjoy this month's issue of Glastonbury Lifestyle Magazine and that you get out and explore all that our region and town has to offer!
SRI RAMACHANDRAN, PUBLISHER AND JAYE SUBRAMANIAN, PUBLISHER ASSISTANT
@GLASTONBURYLIFESTYLE/ CITYLIFESTYLE.COM/GLASTONBURY
July 2025
PUBLISHER
Srivathsa (Sri) Ramachandran srivathsa.ramachandran@citylifestyle.com
PUBLISHER ASSISTANT
Jayashree (Jaye) Subramanian
jayashree.subramanian@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Eileen McNamara | eileen.mcnamara@citylifestyle.com
ACCOUNT MANAGER
Jill Barry | jill.barry@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Brian Boyer
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Meredith Longo, Brian Ambrose
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders
AD DESIGNER Mary Albers
LAYOUT DESIGNER Emily Lisenbee
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Hannah Leimkuhler
Meet Our Pain Management Specialists
Michael J. Grille, MD
Pain Management Anesthesiologist
Dr. Michael Grille has established himself as one of the top Interventional Pain Management Specialists in the Northeast. With Fellowship training at the prestigious Cleveland Clinic, he brings a wealth of clinical expertise in order to develop the best and most comprehensive pain management plan to address any chronic pain condition.
Michael J. Robbins, DO
Pain Management Anesthesiologist
Dr. Michael Robbins was recognized as one of the “Best Pain Management Physicians in New Haven”, and he has brought his clinical excellence and experience to the local community. Dr. Robbins is a board-certified anesthesiologist and pain medicine specialist. He has extensive knowledge in spinal mechanics, and he provides treatment for a wide range of pain issues.
Bright J. Selvaraj, MD
Pain Management Anesthesiologist
Dr. Bright Jebaraj Selvaraj brings national pain management experience to the forefront of the IAA Pain Center. Having completed his Residency at New York Presbyterian Hospital and his Pain Management Fellowship with Oregon Health, Dr. Selvaraj has been a welcome addition to our growing Pain Management Team.
Pain Conditions We Treat
• Neck , mid-back and low back pain
• Joint pain and pain after joint replacement
• Chronic post-surgical pain
• Headache, head, and facial pain
• Cervical dystonia
• Sciatica and nerve pain
• Chronic abdominal and pelvic pain
• Cancer-related pain
• Chest wall pain and thoracic outlet syndrome
• Complex regional pain syndrome
• and more!
Our Philosophy
We provide our patients with the highest
that is available today and for you to keep your teeth for the rest of your life. We anticipate completing this with the least amount of stress, discomfort and expense possible.
scene
AND BE SEEN
business monthly
Flower & Twine Hosts Ribbon Cutting
Flower And Twine, a new flower shop at 548 New London Turnpike, recently celebrated its Grand Opening and a Ribbon Cutting with the CT River Valley Chamber. Flower and Twine is an eco-conscious floral haven, focused on locally sourced blooms, sustainable design, and a personal floral experience. Founded by local floral designer Kerin Smollen, the shop brings over 25 years of creative expertise to the community. Visit flowerandtwine.com for information.
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Emmy Lou's Celebrates 40th Anniversary
Emmy Lou’s Gift Shop is celebrating its 40th anniversary this year. Owner Emmy Lou DeBari launched the store in May of 1985 in a building at 2211 Main St. About 20 years ago she moved it to its current location at 17 Hebron Ave., in a large Colonial home. Known for her home decor and unique gifts, Emmy Lou’s seasonal exterior decorations at her shop have become iconic local fixtures. Visit On Facebook @emmylous for store hours.
Kathryn Hunt Studios Opens Local Store
The Kathryn Hunt Studio, a full-service interior decoration and design firm, has opened a retail location at 970 Farmington Ave. The new space is a concierge shopping experience for the home, featuring furniture, lighting, and a variety of retail home goods. Clients can also make a showroom appointment with one of our designers to have a more hands on approach to purchasing single or for help through selecting furnishings for an entire space. Visit kathrynhuntstudio.com.
Photography by Carrie Draghi
Glastonbury Police Bike to School
Members of the Glastonbury Police Department took part in National Bike to School Day on May 8th. GPD officers cycled alongside students, teachers and parents of Buttonball Lane School that morning on their way to school. "Thank you Buttonball Lane PTO for including us and for tasty treats you shared!" Visit Glastonburyct.gov for information.
Town Hosts Park Cleanup Day
A clean up crew from ARI Accounting & Human Resources participated in a cleanup day at Riverfront Park under the town's Pitch In program. Pitch In is a collaborative effort between Glastonbury Parks and Recreation and Sanitation departments, partly funded by the Nickel-per-Nip Bottle Program. Pitch reinvests funds into local environmental projects, such as litter cleanups, recycling improvements, and public education campaigns — all made possible with dedicated volunteers. Visit Glastonburyct.gov.
GHS Coach Inducted Into Hall of Fame
Brian Collins, head coach of Glastonbury Girls Cross-Country and Track & Field for 25 years, has earned a place in the Connecticut High School Coaches Association Hall of Fame, Class of 2025. Throughout his tenure Brian has fostered a love for running that extended into collegiate careers and beyond and amassed a winning record across all three seasons, culminating in this prestigious recognition. He was celebrated in a ceremony held in May. Visit chsca.org.
business monthly
Voda Ribbon Cutting
Voda Cleaning & Restoration recently held a ribbon cutting ceremony with the CT River Valley Chamber of Commerce. The company, which has offices at 730 Hebron Ave., provides 24-Hour Water Damage Restoration and cleaning services, including water extraction, flood water removal, flooded basements, mold remediation and odor abatement. Visit myvoda.com for information.
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Aurora Women & Girls Foundation Adds Board Staff
Two West Hartford residents have been elected to the Board of the Aurora Women and Girls Foundation, and a third has been named board chair. The new chair is Amy Miller (pictured adjacent), Senior Vice President and Advisor at Wealthspire Advisors. The two new board members are Samia Ameur, a senior analyst at RTX specializing in international tax compliance, and Trisha Pitter, director of Community Learning and Engagement/Instructional Designer at the UConn Health Disparities Institute. Visit aurorafoundation.org
Welles-Turner Memorial Library Wins Best Of Award
Connecticut residents have spoken, and the Welles Turner Memorial Library (WTML) has officially been voted “Best Library” in the Hartford region in the Hartford Courant Best of Hartford Readers Award. This year, WTML was selected as the first-place winner, receiving the most citizen votes for “best library” within the Professional Services category. Visit WTMLIB.info.
Photography by Brian Ambrose
Helping
www.kaitlyncasso.com
ARTICLE BY BRIAN BOYER
SIP, SHOP, AND SAVOR: THE CHARM OF SOUTH GLASTONBURY
EXPLORE LOCAL
The lounge at Cotton Hollow Kitchen
Tucked along the banks of the Connecticut River, South Glastonbury has long been known for its rich agricultural history. But these days, it’s also buzzing with a small yet dynamic business district that’s giving locals and visitors plenty of reasons to stay, shop, sip and savor.
“THERE’S
It’s also become a vibrant hub of local eateries. From the upscale yet inviting 2Hopewell and local favorite Cotton Hollow Kitchen, to the bold flavors of Sayulita and fresh-brewed community vibes at SoG Coffee, the area has become a culinary hub.
Boutiques like Thread by Thread,
A TRUE SENSE OF NEIGHBORHOOD PRIDE HERE.” JESSICA OLANDER
What was once a quiet, rural corner of town has blossomed into a destination filled with beloved restaurants, one-of-a-kind boutiques and a community spirit that feels authentic and distinctly local.
“South Glastonbury has really found its rhythm,” said Jessica Olander, president of the Connecticut River Valley Chamber of Commerce. “There’s a true sense of neighborhood pride here, and it shows in the way the businesses support one another and the community as a whole.”
WHERE FARMS MEET FASHION (AND GREAT FOOD)
The area still proudly honors its roots with seasonal farmstands, such as E. Draghi & Sons at 80 Main St., and the historic Old Cider Mill, a major local tourist draw in the fall.
which focuses on locally curated fashion, and Village Wool, a cozy haven for yarn lovers, add a creative and personal touch. Personal services and beauty salons are also making inroads in South Glastonbury, including the Lash and Glo Salon, which specializes in eyebrow shaping, eyelash services and waxings, at 875 Main St.
“What’s exciting is how these businesses feed off each other,” said Olander. “They collaborate, they cross-promote—it’s the kind of place where a coffee shop might display art from a neighboring boutique, or where restaurants come together for an event like a ‘Taste of South Glastonbury.’”
BUILT ON HISTORY, DRIVEN BY CONNECTION
South Glastonbury is believed to be the town’s original settlement,
CONTINUED >
and its historical legacy remains central. The Rocky Hill-Glastonbury ferry, the oldest continuously operating ferry in the U.S., still runs daily, offering not just a scenic ride but a connection to the past that complements the area’s modern vibrancy.
South Glastonbury is home to a variety of local orchards and fruit farms, which give the region its bucolic flare.
The area also is home to another piece of history, Cotton Hollow Preserve, an 80-acre nature preserve featuring forested hiking trails, wildlife and a roaring brook for seasonal fishing.
One of the oldest businesses still operating in the neighborhood is the family-owned gas station and convenience store, Richards Irving Gas, a staple in the community for generations.
“It’s these legacy businesses, alongside the newcomers, that create the balance we work hard to promote,” says Jessica.
LIVING WHERE THEY SERVE
Perhaps what makes South Glastonbury’s business scene truly special is how personal it is.
Two Hopewell is one of South Glastonbury's longest running restaurants.
The staff of Lash and Glow.
“SOUTH GLASTONBURY HAS REALLY FOUND ITS RHYTHM.”
JESSICA OLANDER
“Most of the business owners here live in South Glastonbury,” said Olander. “They’re not just investing in a storefront— they’re investing in their neighborhood.”
So, whether you’re stopping for a latte, shopping for handmade fashion, enjoying a burger at Cotton Hollow, or hopping on the ferry just because you can, South Glastonbury offers more than charm—it offers a sense of place. Exploring your own town might just lead you to your new favorite spot.
The Glastonbury-Rocky Hill Ferry is the oldest operating ferry in the U.S.
The Old Cider Mill is a popular fall destination in South Glastonbury
Thread by Thread Boutique is one of the newer retail establishments in South Glastonbury.
TAKE A HIKE
Elizabeth Park in Hartford has lovely grounds and hiking trails.
EXPLORE SCENIC AND HISTORIC HIKING LOCATIONS HERE AND ACROSS THE STATE
Connecticut, with its diverse landscapes and rich history, offers a plethora of hiking opportunities for all skill levels. From serene coastal trails to rugged mountain paths, the state is a haven for nature lovers. Each year the Museum of Connecticut History hosts a series of guided hikes of some of our state’s historic sites, including Cotton Hollow Preserve in Glastonbury. While this year’s guided hikes have already filled up, you
ARTICLE BY EILEEN M. MCNAMARA
The Barn Island Wildlife Management Wildlife Area in Stonington.
can still explore on your own all of the historic places the museum identifies each year as worthy hikes at the museum’s website: museumofcthistory.org.
GREAT HIKES IN OR NEAR GLASTONBURY:
1. Cotton Hollow Preserve, Glastonbury
Cotton Hollow Preserve is one of the hikes on this year’s historic hiking tours. The park offers a tranquil escape with lush forests and a meandering brook. The trail includes the remnants of an 18th-century gunpowder mill. It’s an ideal spot for a
peaceful hike, especially during the fall when the foliage is vibrant.
2. Blackledge Falls, Hebron
This short trail rewards hikers with a picturesque 25-foot waterfall, especially impressive after rainfall. The trail is relatively easy, making it suitable for families and casual hikers looking for a quick nature fix. The Outbound
3. J.B. Williams Park, Glastonbury
Spanning 160 acres, J.B. Williams Park offers a variety of trails winding through wooded areas. It also features a popular fishing and ice-skating pond.
Gillette Castle State Park in East Haddam has several miles of hikes of varying difficulty.
“CONNECTICUT ... OFFERS A WEALTH OF HIKING OPPORTUNITIES FOR ALL SKILL LEVELS.”
Glastonbury's Cotton Hollow Preserve is one of this year's Hiking Through History tours.
4. Hollister/Whitehouse Loop Trail, Glastonbury
This 1.5-mile loop is perfect for a leisurely walk, taking approximately 45 minutes to complete. The trail is well-maintained and offers a peaceful setting for hikers of all levels.
5. West Hartford Reservoir
This area boasts nearly 30 miles of trails. The network includes the blue-blazed Metacomet Trail, offering hikers scenic views and varied terrain. It’s a favorite among locals for hiking, biking, and trail-running.
6. Trout Brook Trail, West Hartford
This trail provides a serene environment for walkers and joggers. With its gentle paths and scenic surroundings, it’s an excellent choice for those seeking a peaceful outdoor experience.
7. Elizabeth Park Loop
Known for its beautiful gardens, Elizabeth Park, which straddles Hartford and West Hartford, also offers a 1.86-mile loop trail. It’s an easy walk, perfect for families and those looking to combine floral beauty with light exercise.
IF YOU WANT TO LOOK FARTHER AFIELD, HERE’S A LIST OF OTHER POPULAR HIKES AROUND THE STATE.
1 Pachaug State Forest – Voluntown
As Connecticut’s largest state forest, Pachaug spans over 27,000 acres across several towns in the eastern part of the state. It boasts a network of trails, including the 30-mile Pachaug Trail and the 15-mile Nehantic Trail.
2. Gillette Castle State Park, East Haddam Know for the large stone castle that looms over the Connecticut River, Gillette Castle offers a unique blend of natural beauty and historical intrigue. The park features over six miles of trails, many following the path of William Gillette’s former narrow-gauge railroad, complete with stone-arch bridges, trestles, and a 75-foot tunnel . The trails vary in difficulty, accommodating both casual walkers and seasoned hikers.
3. Sleeping Giant State Park – Hamden
Named for its resemblance to a sleeping giant, this park offers over 30 miles of trails across its rugged terrain. The Tower Trail leads hikers to a stone observation tower, providing panoramic views of the surrounding areas.
4. Barn Island Wildlife Management Area, Stonington
Open year-round this waterfront nature preserve includes a 5.2-mile loop trail. Generally considered an easy route, it takes nearly two hours to complete is a popular area for birding, hiking, and mountain biking. The trail is open yearround and is beautiful to visit anytime.
West Hartford Reservoir as seen from one of its trails.
FROM GLASTONBURY TO GLOBAL BUSINESS NEWS
The Journey
of CNBC President KC Sullivan
ARTICLE BY EILEEN M. MCNAMARA
Throughout his life KC Sullivan has always balanced ambition with humility — a trait rooted in his upbringing here and shaped by years of navigating the complex media landscape. Today, as the president of CNBC, KC leads one of the world’s most influential business news networks. But long before
KC Sullivan in the CNBC offices.
“Work hard and let your work speak for you. Treat people fairly and with compassion.” KC Sullivan
boardrooms and global strategy meetings, he was a Glastonbury kid with cleats on his feet and a deep respect for hard work etched into his character.
As a boy he attended Naubuc and Buttonball Lane elementary schools, Gideon Welles Middle School, and graduated from Glastonbury High School in 1996.
“I spent my whole childhood in Glastonbury,” he recalls. “I had a wonderful high school experience.”
He fondly recalls his time as class treasurer and playing football, baseball, and running indoor track. Youth sports were a constant throughout his early years—from Hartwell Soccer to the Glastonbury Basketball Association and even a little league baseball team that made a strong run in the state tournament in 1991.
And at the core of his life, he says, was his family here in Glastonbury, his parents, Kevin and Betty Sullivan and his sisters, Mary Ellen and Kelly. Though his family has since moved from town, his dad still
co-owns the Farley Sullivan Funeral Home in town with KC’s uncle,Tom Sullivan.
A Hartford firefighter and local funeral director, his dad’s approach to life and work became a personal blueprint for KC on how to lead — with compassion, integrity, and an unshakeable work ethic.
“He’s the biggest influence on my career path and leadership style,” KC says. “Work hard and let your work speak for you. Treat people fairly and with compassion — especially in their times of need.”
While he once envisioned a future in politics or sports, his professional journey took a sharp and fascinating turn toward business journalism. After joining General Electric early in his career, he was drawn to the Enron scandal and the broader questions it raised about corporate responsibility and transparency.
The book The Smartest Guys in the Room captivated him, igniting a passion that would eventually lead him to CNBC.
KC at the NASDAQ
Top:
“I was fascinated by the story – how it happened, why, and the implications. The Smartest Guys in the Room … was then turned into a documentary – I still think it is one of the best business documentaries I have seen and that sparked my interest in business journalism.”
His first major leap came in 2013 when he transitioned from CFO of CNBC to President of CNBC International, based in London.
“I was always curious about the various parts of the business, beyond my day to day as CFO, and regularly spent time with clients and our sales people as well as producers in the control room, just learning the ‘how’ behind it all. That curiosity put me in a position to move from finance to an operating leadership role where I had journalists, technical operators, and sales people all over the world reporting to me.”
Now based in New Jersey with his wife Tara and two young daughters, KC oversees CNBC from its global headquarters in Englewood Cliffs. Despite the high-pressure demands of the media world, he stays grounded through family.
“Time with my wife and daughters keeps me centered and reminds me what’s truly important.”
His leadership has been shaped by more than two decades in an evolving industry. His time at NBCUniversal taught him to embrace constant change and disruption — a necessity in today’s fast-moving media environment. He credits former CNBC chairman
“I was always curious about the various parts of the business, beyond my day-to-day... and regularly spent time with clients and our sales people as well as producers in the control room.” KC Sullivan
Mark Hoffman with teaching him to balance journalistic integrity with business acumen.
Under KC’s leadership, CNBC is adapting to the realities of a fragmented media landscape focusing on diversifying revenue opportunities and providing essential content to their audience across all platforms how and when they want it. The company recently announced a new streaming product, CNBC+, launched three
strategic verticals and continues to grow its councils and events business.
When asked what leadership has taught him, KC offers a simple but powerful insight:
“Listen first. Try to learn from folks with different perspectives.”
And if he could offer advice to his younger self?
“Say yes to opportunities and don’t overthink your next step.”
KC at a Nasdaq event.
For over 100 years, Cummings & Lockwood has been building meaningful and lasting relationships with our private clients, their family offices, businesses and charitable entities. We serve as trusted advisors for multiple generations and provide sophisticated legal counsel at every important stage of life.
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STAMFORD
GREENWICH WEST HARTFORD NAPLES BONITA SPRINGS PALM BEACH
A CENTURY OF INNOVATION
ARTICLE BY EILEEN M. MCNAMARA
PRATT & WHITNEY CELEBRATES 100 YEARS OF POWERING PROGRESS
In 1925, Frederick Rentschler, a visionary engineer, set out to change the face of aviation. He founded Pratt & Whitney with a revolutionary goal: to develop a lighter, more reliable, and more powerful aircraft engine than anything that had come before. That first engine, the R-1340 Wasp, didn’t just succeed. It transformed aviation.
Now, in 2025, Pratt & Whitney, an RTX business, celebrates 100 years of excellence and global impact. From its humble beginnings to its position today as a global leader in aerospace propulsion, the company’s centennial legacy of safety, innovation, and dependable engines
THE ENGINE THAT STARTED IT ALL
At the heart of Pratt & Whitney’s founding was a radical innovation: the air-cooled radial engine. The R-1340 Wasp was a technical marvel for its time achieving levels of performance and reliability far greater than the water-cooled engines of the time. Its impact was immediate and far-reaching. The U.S. Navy, recognizing its potential, placed an order for 200 engines. Additional orders soon followed, sparking a production surge that led to the company’s move to a larger facility in East Hartford in 1929 — a site that remains its global headquarters today and Pratt & Whitney being one of the largest employers in the region.
Over 35,000 R-1340 Wasp engines were eventually built, powering nearly 100 types of aircraft. In 2016, the Wasp received designation as a Historic Engineering Landmark from the American Society of Mechanical Engineers, a testament to its enduring legacy.
POWERING VICTORY IN WORLD WAR II
During World War II, Pratt & Whitney engines became a cornerstone of Allied air power. The R-1830 Twin Wasp, for instance, powered iconic aircraft such as the Douglas C-47, the B-24 Liberator, and the Grumman Wildcat. Production ramped up to unprecedented levels — with hundreds of thousands of engines built not only in Connecticut, but by partner manufacturers across North America.
An Airbus 320 passenger jet plane powered by a Pratt & Whitney GTF Advantage engine.
The impact was staggering: Pratt & Whitney engines supplied over 50 percent of the total aviation horsepower used by Allied forces during the war. These engines helped the Allies win the war in the skies and positioned the company for rapid postwar growth.
JET AGE TRAILBLAZERS
With the dawn of the jet age, Pratt & Whitney remained at the forefront of propulsion technology. The JT3D engine powered the Boeing 707, ushering commercial air travel into the jet age. Subsequent engines like the JT8D and JT9D powered mass-market airliners such as the Boeing 727 and 747, and Airbus’s early wide-bodies.
From the PW2000 to the PW4000 families, and the V2500 joint venture with International Aero Engines, Pratt & Whitney continued to shape the modern commercial aviation.
DEFINING MILITARY POWER
For the past four decades, Pratt & Whitney has been synonymous with cutting-edge fighter aircraft propulsion. From the F100 engines family on the F-15 and F-16, to the F119 for the F-22, and the F135 engine that powers all variants of the F-35, the business has continuously delivered world-class performance and dependability to the U.S. military and its allies.
The F135 alone surpassed one million flight hours in under two decades and remains the most capable and reliable fighter engine in the world today. With its ongoing Engine Core Upgrade program, Pratt & Whitney is growing the F135’s capability to ensure the F-35 remains well positioned to outpace evolving threats.
INNOVATION FOR THE FUTURE
Pratt & Whitney’s latest commercial powerhouse, the (GTF), represents a change in engine efficiency. With its unique geared architecture, the GTF delivers up to 20 percent better fuel efficiency, reduced emissions, and a 75 percent smaller noise footprint for single aisle aircraft such as the A320neo, A220 and the E2.
Already powering over 2,300 aircraft globally, and with more than 11,000 engines on order, the GTF has redefined what’s possible for airlines. The new GTF Advantage, certified by the FAA and set to be delivered later this year, builds on that success with greater thrust, better fuel efficiency, and longer time on wing. Looking ahead, the company is actively investing in hybrid-electric propulsion, alternative fuels like hydrogen, and advanced materials—all part of its commitment to shaping the next 100 years of aviation.
The first WASP engine made by Pratt & Whitney
An early biplane, powered with a Pratt & Whitney Engine
A CENTURY IN CONNECTICUT
For 100 years, Pratt & Whitney has been a pillar of Connecticut’s economy and innovation landscape. With over $1 billion invested in its local sites over the last decade alone, the business continues to drive growth in East Hartford, Middletown, and beyond. From building a 425,000-square-foot state-of-the-art Engineering & Technology Center in East Hartford, to spending more than $1 billion annually with suppliers throughout in the state, the business remains deeply rooted in the community.
It also fosters the next generation of innovators through partnerships with local colleges and workforce programs. Through initiatives like FIRST Robotics, Invention Convention, and its
long-standing work with organizations like the Connecticut Science Center and Boys & Girls Clubs, Pratt & Whitney continues to inspire and invest in STEM education across the region.
CELEBRATING 100 YEARS
To mark its centennial, Pratt & Whitney has launched a yearlong celebration including a global exhibit tour and special events for employees and communities. In April, the company hosted a flyover by a WWII-era R4D-6S aircraft—powered by Twin Wasp engines—at its East Hartford and Middletown facilities. In July, the company will host a Founder’s Week to honor and celebrate its heritage with events at its sites in Connecticut and across the globe.
The F135 engine, manufactured by Pratt & Whitney.
Tahshayooôk & Neetôpáwak (Family & Friends) Days
July & August 2025
Families with children of all ages are invited to join us for Friends & Family Days—fun-filled days of art-making, exposure to traditional lifeways and fun! Museum members will enjoy exclusive in-person activities where materials are provided to encourage hands-on creativity and Pequot cultural learning opportunities. For more information, visit pequotmuseum.org
In the last three years, Watkinson graduates have been offered $7 million in merit scholarships. Ask us how.
ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD
PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
Summer is here and what better way to quench your thirst than with drinks crafted from the season’s fresh produce? Embrace the natural sweetness of sun-ripened fruits and the invigorating zest of garden-fresh herbs. From crisp berry infusions to fragrant herbal blends, enjoy the art of crafting delicious and revitalizing beverages that celebrate the fresh flavors of summer.
This sangria emphasizes fresh garden herbs and the sweetness of seasonal berries.
Ingredients:
• 1 bottle wine (such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio or Garnacha)
• ½ cup brandy or rum
• ½ cup elderflower liqueur
• 1 cup sparkling water
• 1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced
• ½ cup fresh raspberries
• ½ cup fresh blueberries
• ¼ cup fresh mint leaves
• 2 sprigs of fresh rosemary
• 1 cucumber, thinly sliced (optional)
• 1 lime, thinly sliced
Instructions:
In a large pitcher, combine the white wine, brandy (or rum), and elderflower liqueur. Stir gently to mix. Add the sliced strawberries, raspberries, blueber ries, mint leaves, rosemary sprigs, and cucumber slices to the pitcher. Gently muddle the berries and herbs slightly to release their flavors. Cover the pitcher and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or pref erably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld. Just before serving, add the sliced lime and sparkling water or club soda. Stir gently. Serve the sangria over ice, ensuring each glass gets a mix of fruit and herbs.
BOOST YOUR BASKETBALL SKILLS WITH
ROSEMARY GRAPEFRUIT PEAR FIZZ
LIME MINT
ROSE MOJITO
This cocktail balances the tartness of grapefruit, the sweetness of pear, and the distinct notes of rosemary, all brought together with a bubbly finish.
Ingredients:
• 2 oz Gin (or Vodka)
• 1.5 oz Fresh Grapefruit Juice
• 1 oz Pear Liqueur (or Pear Juice)
• 0.75 oz Fresh Lime Juice
• 1 sprig of Rosemary
• Sparkling water
• Garnish: Rosemary sprig, grapefruit slice, pear slice
Instructions:
Place the rosemary sprig in a cocktail shaker. Lightly muddle the rosemary to release its oils. Add the gin (or vodka), grapefruit juice, pear liqueur and lime juice to the shaker. Add ice. Shake well until thoroughly chilled. Strain the mixture into a chilled glass filled with ice. Top with sparkling water or Prosecco. Garnish with a rosemary sprig, a grapefruit slice, and a pear slice.
A Lime Mint Rose Mojito adds a floral twist to the classic mojito, creating a refreshing and elegant cocktail. Here’s a recipe that balances the traditional lime and mint with the delicate aroma of rose.
Ingredients:
• 10 fresh mint leaves
• 1 lime, cut into wedges
• 2 tablespoons white sugar (or simple syrup, to taste)
• 2 ounces white rum
• 1 ounce rose water (adjust to taste, as it can be potent)
• Club soda or sparkling water
• Garnish: Mint sprigs, lime wedges, edible rose petals (optional)
Instructions:
Muddle:
Place the mint leaves and lime wedges in a glass. Add sugar. Use a muddler to gently crush the mint and lime. Pour the white rum and rose water into the glass. Stir well. Fill the glass with ice. Top with club soda or sparkling water. Stir gently. Garnish with a mint sprig, a lime wedge, and, if desired, edible rose petals.
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JULY 1ST
Spring into Summer Art Exhibit
Manchester Art Association, 41 Center St., Manchester | 8:00 AM
The Manchester Art Association's newest exhibit opened in May 9 at Manchester Town Hall and runs until Aug. 13. It features beautiful artwork created by MAA members in a variety of mediums and can be seen at Manchester Town Hall during normal business hours or online at manchesterart.org.
JULY 1ST
Glastonbury Farmers Market
Glastonbury Town Hall, 2155 Main St. | 3:30 PM
Join us every Tuesday through Sept. 9, from 3:30-6:30 p.m. for a vibrant gathering of vendors, musicians, families and volunteers in the parking lot of Glastonbury Town Hall. It's the place to be for a market that's perfect for people and families of all ages, with music, produce, baked goods and handcrafted products. Visit them on Facebook @Glastonburyfarmersmarket.
JULY 3RD
Social Lounge Hosts Accoustic Sets
Social Lounge, 110 Glastonbury Blvd. | 5:30 PM
Join Social Lounge for weekly Acoustic Thursday Sets with Martin Piggot. Enjoy live music, tasty bites, and delicious house-made drinks. Social Lounge also has announced new Happy Hour times, which are Mon-Fri., 3-6 p.m. Visit socialloungect.com for information.
JULY 9TH
Riverfront Music Series - Beyond 1969
Riverfront Park, 300 Welles St. | 6:30 PM
The Riverfront Music Series of free live concerts this month will be on July 9, 16 and 23, featuring Beyond 1969, Larry Stevens and River of Dreams. Hosted by the town and the CT River Valley Chamber of Commerce, the concerts are held in the field behind the Riverfront Community Center. Visit CRVchamber.org for more information.
JULY 9TH
Greater Hartford Shakespeare Festival
University of St. Joseph, 1678 Asylum Ave. | 7:30 PM
The Greater Hartford Shakespeare Festival will run from July 9 to Aug. 3 and will feature two full-length productions of King Lear and Twelfth Night. Capital Classics will stage ten rotating performances of each play, running Wednesday through Sunday evenings for four weeks. General Admission tickets for each show are $25. Visit capitalclassics.org for information or tickets.
JULY 13TH
Suffragist Tea With The Historical Society
Museum on The Green, 1944 Main St. | 2:00 PM
The Historical Society of Glastonbury will host a Suffragist Tea at its Museum on The Green from 2-4 p.m. There will be a "hidden agenda" to discuss after the scones are served! Reservations are required and can be made by emailing hsg06033@gmail.com. Tickets for the tea are $40.
realty report
JULY 14TH
Trash Art Workshop
Welles-Turner Memorial Library | 6:00 PM
Join local artist Sarah Schneiderman in this engaging workshop where you'll learn to transform found objects and non-recyclable trash into imaginative works of art. Participants will craft unique creations that celebrate creativity and sustainability. This workshop focuses on the joy of the artistic process, making it perfect for all skill levels. Visit WTMLib.info for more information or to register.
JULY 16TH
Singin' in the Rain
Playhouse on Park, 244 Park Road, West Hartford | 7:30 PM
This re-imagining of the classic musical is set at a screening of the iconic film that goes horribly wrong, until super fans swoop in and save the day! Singin' in the Rain has all the makings of a Tinseltown tabloid headline – the starlet, the leading man and a love affair! Visit Playhouseonpark.org for additional dates and times.
JULY 17TH
Riverfront Food Truck Festival
300 Columbus Blvd., Hartford | 11:00 AM
The Riverfront Food Truck Festival is a staple of summertime Hartford fun. Whether you’re craving cupcakes and country music, poutine and pop, or just looking for a lobster roll and lawn games, you’ll find it at the Riverfront Food Truck Festival. The festival runs 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. over several days in July. Visit Hartford.com for more information.
JULY 17TH
ConnectiCon XXII
Connecticut Convention Center, 100 Columbus Blvd., Hartford | 12:00 PM
The 22nd annual ConnectiCon convention, Connecticut's oldest fan-run convention, will host a diverse selection of Cosplay, Gaming, Celebrity Guests, Panels, Workshops and all things Pop-Culture from Thursday, July 17 through Sunday, July 20. Ticket prices vary. Children 10 and under are free with parent/guardian. Visit connecticon.org for more information and ticket prices.
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Glastonbury Lifestyle
Published by Srivathsa Loved by Glastonbury
