Glastonbury, CT May 2020

CityLifestyle.com/Glastonbury

MAY 2020

PREMIERE ISSUE

Hometown Son

Michael Monaco

Works to Help Fellow Vets

NAVIGATING UNCERTAIN MARKETS WITH YOUR FINANCIAL ADVISOR

HOT SPOT: SOUTH GLASTONBURY’S THAI HOUSE AND SUSHI BAR RESTAURANT

Mother's Day Gift Guide

NEW! LOLA Necklaces NEW! E. Newton Bracelets The Latest Vera Bradley Sentimental Jewelry Perfect add on gift + so much more!!

M-F: 10-6 Sat: 10-5 Sun: 11-5 860-633-1817 41 Hebron Ave, Glastonbury

Introducing our new line Fashion Angel!

The lastest in trendy DIY!

Quick & personal finger print pottery- a perfect gift for mom or grandma! Come in with the kids for 5 minutes, let us do the rest! Or choose from our huge selection of other items ready to personalize!

Closed Monday Tues-Thurs: 10-6 Fri + Sat: 10-9 Sun: 10-6

Call to book your private event or party!

860-430-6255 60 Hebron Ave Second Floor

M-F: 10-6 Sat+Sun: 10-5 (860) 430-2954 60 Hebron Ave Glastonbury

LIFESTYLE LETTER

MAY 2020 PUBLISHER

Gary Perrelli | gary.perrelli@lifestylepubs.com EDITORIAL COORDINATOR

Welcome!

HELLO, AND WELCOME TO THE PREMIERE ISSUE OF GLASTONBURY LIFESTYLE, WHERE WE’RE INSPIRED BY COMMUNITY. We hope this magazine inspires you too!

Joan Hunt | joan.hunt@lifestylepubs.com, Eileen M. McNamara | eileen.mcnamara@lifestylepubs.com AD DESIGNER

Whitney Lockhart LAYOUT DESIGNER

Dani Moore CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Eileen M. McNamara

We’re thrilled to be your source for all things local here in Glastonbury and the surrounding areas.

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Carrie Draghi

My wife Ivy and I have lived in town for over 25 years. We raised our three children (Justin, Alexa and Jacqueline) here and they all graduated from Glastonbury High School. We’ve met so many great people over the years and made lasting friendships that we will always cherish. This is my way of giving back to the community that’s been such a big part of our lives.

With everything going on in the world today, we need to support our community, our neighbors and our local businesses more than ever. Please continue to shop local

CORPORATE TEAM CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry

and reach out to those who are less fortunate. Together we will thrive, not just survive.

CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore

As you flip through these pages, you’ll be drawn into the incredible stories behind

OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson

ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor

the people and places that call Glastonbury home.

AD MANAGER Chad Jensen REGIONAL SALES DIRECTOR Eric Williams

From the carefully crafted food served up in local restaurants to beautiful homes

WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell

across our community; from start-ups and iconic local businesses to community artisans, artists, designers, fashionistas, business leaders and civic groups - our goal is to share the stories of everything Glastonbury has to offer and everyone involved in what makes our community so special. Simply put, we want to tell the stories of our town that matter most to you, our readers, for whom we produce this magazine each month.

Thanks for inviting us into your homes and sharing your lives with us, we can’t wait to see you around town.

ARIZONA | CALIFORNIA | COLORADO | CONNECTICUT | FLORIDA | GEORGIA IDAHO | ILLINOIS | KANSAS | MARYLAND | MASSACHUSETTS | MICHIGAN MINNESOTA | MISSOURI | MONTANA | NEVADA | NEW JERSEY | NEW YORK NORTH CAROLINA | OHIO | OKLAHOMA | OREGON | PENNSYLVANIA

Gary Perrelli, Publisher

ON THE COVER (from L-R): Tony Hayes, Geoff Ricciardelli, Manny Jimenez, Mike Monaco, Jon Debigare, Craig Hall and Kevin VanderWiede

PHOTOGRAPHY BY CARRIE DRAGHI 4

Glastonbury Lifestyle | May 2020

SOUTH CAROLINA | TENNESSEE | TEXAS | VIRGINIA | WASHINGTON

514 W 26TH ST., KANSAS CITY, MO

CityLifestyle.com/Glastonbury

Proverbs 3:5-6 Glastonbury Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Glastonbury areas’ most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors.

Information in Glastonbury Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

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CityLifestyle.com/Glastonbury

5

INSIDE THE ISSUE MAY 2020

FEATURES 12 Waterfront Retreat This Light-Filled Traditional New England Home Surprises with a Dramatic Addition

17 A Personal Touch Financial Planner Jason Cerniglia Has a Unique Client Approach

22 An Authentic Experience in South Glastonbury Amy and Steve Wattananonchai Serve up Traditional Thai and Sushi Cuisine

26 Called to Service Michael Monaco, General Manager

17 22

of Monaco Ford, Carries on a Family Tradition of Serving Others

12

DEPARTMENTS

26

4

Lifestyle Letter

8

Good Times

10

Around Town

12

Open House

17

Locally Owned

22 Hot Spot 26 Local Limelight 28 DIY 30 Culinary Creations 32 Lifestyle Calendar 34 Local’s Choice

Mahogany Shoppe Gifts and Cards for all occasions.

ALWAYS SOMETHING NEW AND DIFFERENT.

– ANNIEGLASS

– VIETRI

– MARIPOSA

2285 Main Street, Glastonbury 860-633-7990

|

yelp.combiz/mahogany-shoppe-glastonbury

STORE HOURS: Tuesday - Friday 10:00 - 6:00. Saturday 10:00 - 5:00.

Closed Sunday and Monday.

CityLifestyle.com/Glastonbury

7

GOOD TIMES

Protectors of Animals Annual Leap Into Action Fundraiser Protectors of Animals Leap into Action Fundraising Event at Glastonbury Hills Country Club, Feb. 29 drew 284 people and was sold out! We raised over $50,000 and we had fantastic professional dancers from the East Hartford Fred Astaire Dance Studio. POA is so grateful for the support of local communities that makes helping pets in need possible. Thank you everyone!

8

Glastonbury Lifestyle | May 2020

Nationally Recognized Advisors Right Here in Your Backyard Jason Cerniglia CFP®, CRPC®, CMFC® Private Wealth Advisor Chief Executive Officer

Bryan J. Lauriat APMA® Financial Advisor Managing Director

Joel E. Blum APMA®, CRPC® Financial Advisor Managing Director

Forbes Best-in-State 2018 - 2020 Barron’s Top 1200 2017 - 2020 Financial Times Top 400 2018 - 2020 Ameriprise Chairman’s Advisory Council 2017 - 2019

Forbes’ Best-In-State Next-Generation Wealth Advisor 2019

Forbes’ America’s Top Next Generation Wealth Advisor 2018

Coastal Wealth Management, a Private Wealth Advisory Practice of Ameriprise Financial Services, Inc, provides comprehensive financial planning and wealth management advice to affluent individuals, families, small businesses, and family trusts.

Mystic, CT 860.245.0251

Glastonbury, CT 860.430.1780

CWMCT.com

Forbes/SHOOK Research listings are based on data compiled by many of the nation’s most productive advisors, selected by their firms, which is then submitted to and judged by SHOOK Research. Key factors and criteria include: assets under management, revenue produced for the firm, regulatory and compliance record, and credentials/years of professional experience. Selection of winners is done by comparing advisors at a national level, selecting winners, and then sorting them into state-specific lists. A separate evaluation is not done for each state. Portfolio performance is not a factor. This award is not indicative of this advisor’s future performance. Neither Forbes nor SHOOK Research receives compensation in exchange for placement on the ranking. Barron’s listings are based on data compiled by many of the nation’s most productive advisors, which is then submitted to and judged by Barron’s. Key factors and criteria for each award include: assets under management, revenue produced for the firm, regulatory and compliance record, and years of professional experience. Barron’s is a registered trademark of Dow Jones, L.P.; all rights reserved. This award is not indicative of this advisor’s future performance.

Neither Ameriprise Financial nor its advisors pay a fee to Barron’s in exchange for the ranking. The Financial Times 400 Top Financial Advisers is an independent listing produced annually by the Financial Times. The FT 400 is based on data gathered from advisors, firms, regulatory disclosures, and the FT’s research. The listing reflects each advisor’s performance in six primary areas: assets under management (AUM), asset growth, compliance record, experience, credentials and online accessibility. This award does not evaluate the quality of services provided to clients and is not indicative of this advisor’s future performance. Neither Ameriprise Financial nor its advisors pay a fee to the Financial Times in exchange for inclusion in the FT 400. Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards Inc. owns the certification marks CFP®, CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ and federally registered CFP (with flame design) in the U.S., which it awards to individuals who successfully complete CFP Board’s initial and ongoing certification requirements.

Investment advisory services and products are made available through Ameriprise Financial Services, LLC, a registered investment adviser.

Ameriprise Financial Services, LLC, Member FINRA and SIPC. © 2020 Ameriprise Financial, Inc., All rights reserved.

AROUND TOWN amusement rides, more than 100 craft vendors, at least 25 food trucks and purveyors, a fully stocked Harvest Pub and the Angry Orchard 5K Road Race.

ROTARY SUPPORTS LOCAL MISSION The Glastonbury Rotary Club recently presented a check for $2,000 to Rev. Dick Allen from the Congregational Church in South Glastonbury to support another mission trip to Malawi this May.

LIQUID NIRVANA IS ON THE MOVE

The group will continue its efforts in support of the

Liquid Nirvana, a family owned juice and

mission of SAMALA in the Salima district of Central

smoothie bar, Is planning a new location on the

Malawi. This trip will be led by Reverend Allen and

corner of the first rotary. They recently tore down

several members of the church. He will be returning

the old red house that was there. If all goes well,

to Malawi to visit the women and families whom we

they hope to break ground within the next couple

have helped in the past.

of months. They are looking to name the building and have a few suggestions so far (Clocktower Corner or Nirvana Center), but nothing is final yet.

Any ideas?

Courtesy of The Scoop Glastonbury

APPLE HARVEST FESTIVAL 2020 Planning for the 2020 Apple Harvest Festival is underway by the local Chamber of Commerce!

The schedule this year will be Friday-Sunday, Oct. 16-18. This one-of-a-kind event has grown into one of the state’s most popular annual fall festivals.

10

A NEW BUSINESS IN TOWN Harpers

Invitations

recently

moved

to

The Glastonbury Apple Harvest & Music Festival

Glastonbury. The custom stationary shop is on

features three stages of live music with more

Kreiger Lane across from Stop & Shop. Mari

than 30 local and touring artists, a full midway of

Carmen has been helping clients choose

Glastonbury Lifestyle | May 2020

high-quality, beautifully designed invitations

The Sow’s Ear

and stationery for more than 15 years. Mari’s

2400 Main Street | Glastonbury

860.633.0311

custom designs means you don’t pick your project from a template or book, she mixes and

Store Hours:

matches designs, fonts, and graphics to the

Tuesday to Friday 10 - 5, Saturday 10 - 3, Closed Sunday & Monday

taste of her clients.

Courtesy of The Scoop Glastonbury

Jewelry Accessories Candles Unique Gifts Home Accents Furniture RIVERFRONT MUSIC FESTIVAL

www.sowsearct.com

This popular annual event is a music fest, food truck festival and farmers market all rolled into one.

Join us for great music in the summer air every Wednesday in July. These free concerts, co-sponsored by the Town of Glastonbury and the CT River

Confidence is a

Valley Chamber of Commerce, are scheduled over four Wednesday nights 7:00 to 9:00 p.m. at the Welles Street Riverfront Park on the lawn behind

beautiful

the Riverfront Community Center. Free parking and shuttle service are available. Feel free to bring

smile

picnic supplies.

TIME TO PLAN YOUR SUMMER SWIM CLUB MEMBERSHIP If you haven't thought far enough ahead to plan for the best season of the year it’s time to get on it! A membership at Woodledge Pool Club means you have a plan for the kids every day. And, doesn't that sound nice right about now? Besides the obvious (a pool), Woodledge has tennis courts, a basketball court, a kiddie pool, swim team, and fun nights for the whole family (Burger Night, Movie Night, Adult Social and more). Right now, they're waiving the bond and giving first time members the option of joining for just the cost of membership for their first season.

Courtesy of The Scoop Glastonbury

Call us for a free cosmetic consultation!

Bring in this magazine and receive a $100 voucher toward future treatment.

Personalized Dentistry for Beautiful Smiles See our amazing results in our website's Smile Gallery

(860) 659-8660

HartfordCosmeticDentist.com

Steven M. Balloch, DDS

300 Hebron Ave Ste 112 Glastonbury, CT

Jeffery J. Glavine, DDS CityLifestyle.com/Glastonbury

11

OPEN HOUSE

An E legant Wate r f ront R etr e at ARTICLE EILEEN M. MCNAMARA PHOTOGRAPHY CARRIE DRAGHI

THIS LIGHT-FILLED TRADITIONAL NEW ENGLAND HOME SURPRISES WITH A DRAMATIC ADDITION

EVEN ON A CLOUDY DAY A WARM GLOW BATHES THE STUN-

The expansive view includes the homes in Lyme on the opposite side

NING KITCHEN OF 18 HEMLOCK DRIVE IN ESSEX, IN PART

of the river as well as the boats moored there.

FROM ALL THE NATURAL LIGHT POURING IN FROM THE ROOM’S WALL OF WINDOWS. The expansive space, which includes black and white marble countertops, a Wolf cooktop and a massive center island, is one of 13 rooms in the home.

Located on a wooded cul-de-sac the two-story, 6,670-squarefoot residence sits on a slight rise overlooking the Connecticut River.

12

Glastonbury Lifestyle | May 2020

Matthew Merritt of Glastonbury is an agent with William Pitt / Sotheby’s International Realty, which has the listing. He said that while the original two-story, traditional New England home was built in 1948 a newer addition houses the kitchen and a cavernous great room.

The home boasts countless amenities that make it a distinctive property. One of its most impressive is the expansive water views from nearly every room.

Photo provided by Dennis M. Carbo

In the addition, the walls of windows in the kitchen and great room face the river. That view, along with numerous outdoor gardens, a wrap-around deck and the lovely mature oak, maple and birch trees that dot the property give the home that sought-after feel of bringing the outdoors inside.

“A lot of people in Glastonbury have homes along the shoreline and I represent a lot of buyers who are looking for properties of this type,” Matt said. What makes this home distinctive, he added, is that while it has a traditional and homey New England feel, the newer addition brings a sense of drama to the property.

CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/Glastonbury

13

OPEN HOUSE (CONTINUED)

Photo provided by Dennis M. Carbo

“You don’t find that too often. It’s a spectacular addition.”

The home sits on a more than 2-acre lot in the Essex Harbors neighborhood. It overlooks South Cove on the Connecticut River.

The atrium door leads to a wrap-around deck overlooking the lawn, a dock and beach.

The home’s entry includes a two-story foyer with a dramatic

It’s listed at $2,750,000.

pendant light and wide stairs that lead down to the kitchen and

It includes five bedrooms, five and a half baths, a mahogany pan-

great room.

eled study with a fireplace, a music-media room, family room, office,

The master suite on the addition’s second floor has vaulted ceil-

a fitness-game room and nanny quarters.There are wide-board wal-

ings and is sided in shiplap. The room includes a balcony, a sitting

nut floors throughout.

area and a stunning marble master bath.

“The addition offers a seamless transition to new ‘must haves’ while maintaining the architectural hallmarks of a classic waterfront

Matt said he’s looking forward to helping friends and clients in Glaston-

residence,” the listing states.

bury find their new dream home. For additional information you can

The kitchen boasts a 10-foot ceiling, clerestory windows, a Miele steamer, subway tile backsplash, multiple sinks, an island with a 2-inch marble countertop.

14

Glastonbury Lifestyle | May 2020

contact him at 860-729-2290 or 860-767-7488.

Photo provided by Dennis M. Carbo

Matt Merritt, inside the light-filled kitchen of 18 Hemlock Drive in Essex

CityLifestyle.com/Glastonbury

15

www.nanasstore.com

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4,000 SQ FT Kitchen and Bath Showroom Aging in Place / ADA Displays Design Assistance Available

Mention Glastonbury Lifestyle and Get 10% Off 2235 Main Street, Glastonbury, CT 06033 860-659-8433 2 Eva M. Reilly, Owner: eva@nanasstore.com Store Hours: Tues. - Fri. 9:30 - 5:00. Sat. 10:00 - 4:00. Closed Sun. and Mon.

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Glastonbury Lifestyle | May 2020

120 DEKOVEN DRIVE MIDDLETOWN, CT 06457 860-344-8102 W I N S U P P LYO F M I D D L E T O W N . C O M

LOCALLY OWNED

a holistic approach to personal finance

JASON CERNIGLIA DRAWS ON HIS PERSONAL EXPERIENCE AND HIS DEEP KNOWLEDGE TO HELP CLIENTS MAINTAIN GOOD FINANCIAL HEALTH ARTICLE EILEEN M. MCNAMARA | PHOTOGRAPHY CARRIE DRAGHI CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/Glastonbury

17

LOCALLY OWNED (CONTINUED)

ASK JASON CERNIGLIA WHAT MAKES HIM A GREAT FINANCIAL ADVISOR AND YOU MIGHT BE SURPRISED WHEN HE DOESN’T INITIALLY TICK OFF HIS DOUBLE MAJOR IN FINANCE AND MARKETING FROM THE UNIVERSITY OF CONNECTICUT, HIS NEARLY 20 YEARS OF EXPERIENCE, OR THE NATIONAL RECOGNITIONS HE’S EARNED FROM BARRON’S, FORBES AND THE FINANCIAL TIMES. While that experience is important, it’s a bit of advice his dad gave him growing up that’s guided him throughout his career as a Certified Financial Planner.

His father, a psychologist and war veteran who served two deployments in Vietnam, taught him how to read people and how to communicate complex information in ways others can easily understand.

“My dad ... always impressed on me that the most important thing you can do in interpersonal communication is to make sure you connect with people in such a way that they hear the same things you’re saying, to be sure your communications with people are always clear, precise and easy to understand. We try to tell a story in the way the client can digest.”

A Private Wealth Advisor with Ameriprise Financial Services, LLC, with offices on Hebron Avenue, and Coastal Wealth Management in Mystic, Jason says the lesson became even more pertinent recently as he’s helped his clients navigate the turbulent markets wrought by the Coronavirus pandemic.

“What we’ve been seeing, what we’ve been talking to people about, has a lot more to do with psychology than the market.”

Calming investors, he adds, means knowing them personally, not just their financial situation.

Coastal Wealth’s approach to advising clients is a holistic one. The firm views each client, he says, as the CEO of their financial life and their advisors as the CFOs. “As CEO, the client gets to decide the final course of action. Clients should work with an advisor who clearly communicates the value of a comprehensive financial planning relationship.”

Named this year to Forbes Best-in-State Wealth Advisors, Barron’s Top 1200 advisors nationally and Financial Times Top 400, Jason says achievements, along with several other honors he’s attained as a financial advisor, are a testament to his clients’ loyalty and his team’s commitment to excellence.

Jason and the Entire Coastal Wealth Management team, he says, maintain an approachable and friendly rapport with their clients.

“We understand that we are not their best friend, but we see them enough that we’re friendly with one another, so that when life changes, when life happens, you can call your CFO and we’ll figure it out together.”

18

Glastonbury Lifestyle | May 2020

CityLifestyle.com/Glastonbury

19

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167 Cobblestone Lane, Meriden 475.343.9835 MeridenMakeoversLLC

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HOT SPOT ARTICLE EILEEN M. MCNAMARA | PHOTOGRAPHY CARRIE DRAGHI

AMY AND STEVE WATTANANONCHAI SERVE UP DISHES THAT HARKEN BACK TO THEIR ROOTS 22

Glastonbury Lifestyle | May 2020

WE TRY TO MAKE THAI FOOD THAT TASTES LIKE WHEN YOU GO TO THAILAND CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/Glastonbury

23

HOT SPOT (CONTINUED)

ONE OF THE FIRST THINGS THAT GREETS

home country but which appeal more to an

VISITORS INSIDE THE TIDY LITTLE THAI

American palate.

HOUSE RESTAURANT AND SUSHI BAR IN

For instance, she says, some Thai cooks

SOUTH GLASTONBURY ARE A COUPLE

here add ketchup to their Pad Thai and

OF DISPLAY BOARDS WITH DOZENS OF

string beans in their curry, ingredients not

SNAPSHOTS OF SOME OF THE EATERY’S

used in either of those authentic Thai dishes.

REPEAT CUSTOMERS. “Most of our customers they live here, right in this neighborhood,” Rattikorn “Amy” Wattananonchai says with pride.

That sense of belonging to a distinct

that,’ ” she says with a laugh. “But they like it. It’s very flavorful.”

The restaurant’s extensive menu includes

what lured Amy and her husband, Somboon

a robust variety of sushi, as well as house

“Steve” Wattananonchai, to purchase the

specials, such as beef jerky, wonton noodle

restaurant at 875 Main St., five years ago.

soup and Thai style boat noodles.

Customer

favorites

include

another

Thailand about 10 years ago, and Steve, who

house specialty, Glastonbury Chicken,

came here from Thailand about 30 years

Amy says. The dish is a mélange of crispy

ago, had been living in Saratoga Springs,

chicken breast, cashews, pineapple scal-

N.Y., when they learned a friend wanted to

lions, onions, peppers and Thai dried chili

sell her restaurant here.

in spicy glaze sauce.

They visited the area and fell in love with it.

Other customer favorites include Thai

“This town is very good, the people are all

staples like fried rice, Pad Thai and the

so very nice. We really like it here.”

drunken noodles.

The renovations the couple undertook at

Entrees range from $13.95 for signature

the space included a new dining room and

dishes like Thai curry and Thai noodles, up

a sushi bar. Steve serves as the sushi chef.

to as much $28.95 for a lobster entrée.

Amy says she and Steve pride themselves on creating authentic Thai food.

“We try to make Thai food that tastes like when you go to Thailand,” she says.

Glastonbury Lifestyle | May 2020

“People will ask me ‘why is your curry like

community, one with a small-town feel, is

Amy, who immigrated to the U.S. from

24

Customers, Amy says, have noticed the difference, but in a good way.

Lunch offerings range from $8.95 to $14.95 and the restaurant has a variety of appetizers, including Thai favorites such as chicken satay, spring rolls and crab Rangoon.

Many Thai restaurants in this country,

The Thai House can seat 48 people and

she says, have “Americanized” their menu

offers takeout as well. It also accepts all

offerings, adding ingredients not used in her

major credit cards.

CityLifestyle.com/Glastonbury

25

LOCAL LIMELIGHT

A C A L L TO S E RV I C E MICHAEL MONACO, GENERAL MANAGER OF MONACO FORD, CARRIES ON A FAMILY TRADITION OF SERVING OTHERS

BREEZING THROUGH A HALLWAY OF HIS FAM-

“I needed to get squared away and I started at the

ILY’S FORD DEALERSHIP, MICHAEL MONACO

ground level again.” He’s worked at a variety of jobs at

STOPS TO LOOK AT A COLLAGE OF SOME OF HIS

the dealership, before becoming general manager. He

ANCESTORS. There’s his late grandfather, Charles L.

co-owns the business with his father, David Monaco,

Monaco, in the center. Surrounding him are the head-

and his sister, Christine Monaco-DiMauro.

shots of five of Monaco’s great uncles.

All were young men when the photos were taken decades ago and all are in military uniform.

“I come from a long tradition of service to this country,” Mike says. “We’re a very patriotic family.”

Today the dealership is one of the second largest in the state and prides itself on its community involvement.

The business sponsors an annual car show to assist veteran organizations. Christine serves on the board of Glastonbury’s YMCA. She also works on events

A veteran of the Iraq War, Mike, co-owner and

that promote female wellness, education and safety,

general manager of Monaco Ford on New London

and coordinates blood drives and charity events at the

Turnpike, carries a sense of duty with him in his work

family dealership.

and personal life.

Mike stays in touch with his former Marine squad

A teenager when the September 11 terror attacks

members and is active in veterans’ issues in general.

happened, Mike joined the U.S. Marine Corps right out

He serves as the vice chairman of the Glastonbury

of high school.

Veterans Service Commission and is the command-

“I wanted to go overseas. My country was at war and I wanted to be there.”

He served two deployments in Iraq, lost a friend to a roadside bombing and came home a changed man after four years’ of service.

He went to work in the family’s Ford dealership, a business his great grandfather started in 1922,

ment of the Peter R. Monaco Jr., Marine Corps League, Detachment 40, a nearly 70-year-old veterans organization that had gone dormant.

Named after one of his uncles, the group today boasts 160 members and hosts the annual 22-kilometer Hike to Remember to support veteran suicide awareness. This year’s 8th annual hike is scheduled for May 16.

working 40 hours a week as a mechanic while he

“We’re big on hiring veterans and we understand the

was still in high school. When he left the Marine

struggles people are going through,” Mike says of the

Corps, he went back to that work because he liked

family and its business. “We really appreciate our local

the solitary nature of it.

community and we try to give back to our community.”

ARTICLE EILEEN M. MCNAMARA | PHOTOGRAPHY CARRIE DRAGHI

26

Glastonbury Lifestyle | May 2020

WE’RE BIG ON HIRING VETERANS AND WE UNDERSTAND THE STRUGGLES PEOPLE ARE GOING THROUGH. WE REALLY APPRECIATE OUR LOCAL COMMUNITY AND WE TRY TO GIVE BACK TO OUR COMMUNITY.” CityLifestyle.com/Glastonbury

27

DIY

PACK YOUR SMALL SPACES WITH A BIG PUNCH BY STARTING YOUR OWN CONTAINER GARDEN

IT MAY BE THAT YOU DON’T HAVE MUCH SPACE TO WORK WITH; MAYBE YOU ARE ALWAYS ON-THE-MOVE; OR, MAYBE YOU JUST SIMPLY COLOR TO YOUR SPACE. It doesn’t matter what your reason may be. Container gardening—the practice of growing plants exclusively in containers rather than in the ground—is a great way to pack some punch into a small (or portable!) space.

With container gardening, there are almost endless possibilities. Whether you’re looking to grow decorative plants or edible ones, there’s likely an option for you— and it doesn’t have to be limited to simply growing herbs

ARTICLE NICOLETTE MARTIN

WANT SOME GREENERY TO ADD A LITTLE BIT OF

on your windowsill.

There are several factors to keep in mind when you first start your container garden, the first of which being to decide whether you’re going to keep it indoors or out.

Different plants grow best in different environments, so be sure to choose species that will thrive where you’ve decided to put them—making sure they are receiving the proper amount of sunlight and moisture.

DETAILS HEADER Details line 1 information Details line 2 information Details line 3 information

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Glastonbury Lifestyle | May 2020

Here are a few other things to be aware of when you get started: CONTAINER SIZES: Large containers may be easier to grow plants in than small since

they have more space for large root systems and larger amounts of soil retain more moisture. + CONTAINER DRAINAGE: Your container must have a drainage system—even if it’s just a few holes you drill in it yourself. For plants that need to be watered more frequently, consider self-watering containers. + CONTAINER MATERIALS: The fun thing about container gardens is that you don’t have to limit yourself. Get creative with the containers you use (while keeping the above information in mind)! We love repurposing vintage items into unique containers.

the more the greener

garden tips

+

Why stick with one kind of garden? Once you’re a container garden pro, there are tons of different theme gardens you can create all around your home.

CLEAN-AIR GARDEN Snake Plant + Spider Plant + Dragon Plant + English Ivy FRAGRANCE GARDEN Lavender + Lemongrass + Mint LEMON GARDEN Lemon Verbena + Lemon Balm + Lemongrass + Lemon Geranium

CityLifestyle.com/Glastonbury

29

CULINARY CREATIONS

the best

SPRING PIE ever

30

Glastonbury Lifestyle | May 2020

FRESH BERRIES AND CREAMY CHOCOLATE GOODNESS ON A PLATE

chocolate strawberry cream cheese pie I ABSOLUTELY LOVE FRESH STRAW-

INGREDIENTS

BERRIES WHEN THEY ARE IN SEASON, AND MY FAVORITE WAY TO ENJOY THEM IS WHEN THEY ARE COVERED IN CHOCOLATE! My mom was always a great cook, as is my sister. But I never did well following recipes because I loved improvising. A few years back, I was about to make a cheesecake and some chocolate-covered strawberries for a neighborhood barbecue. True to form, I went off the grid and came up with this beautiful pie! I have entered this recipe in contests three different times and won every time. If you would like to impress your family and friends, give this a try.

Beautiful, delicious and EASY, I promise!

+ 1 1/3 cups crushed graham cracker crumbs (substitute Oreo crumbs, if you really like chocolate) + 3 tablespoons granulated sugar + 2/3 cup melted butter + 12 ounces softened cream cheese + 1 1/4 cups semisweet chocolate chips (save 1/4 cup for top) + 1/4 cup packed brown sugar + 1 tablespoon vanilla + 12 ounces frozen whipped topping, thawed in refrigerator (very important!) + 1/2-inch square of paraffin + 1 quart fresh strawberries, sliced lengthwise about 1/8 inch thick

DIRECTIONS Preheat oven to 325 degrees.

CRUST Combine cookie crumbs, sugar and butter well. Spray 9-inch pie pan lightly with cooking spray or lightly grease.

Press crumbs into bottom and up sides of pan, distributing evenly. Bake for 10 minutes. Cool.

FILLING Melt 1 cup of chocolate chips in a double boiler or microwave. Be careful the chocolate does not burn. Beat cream cheese until light and fluffy with electric mixer. Add brown sugar and vanilla. Mix well. Add cooled chocolate. Mix well. Fold in the whipped topping. Spoon the filling into the cooled crust evenly, smoothing out the top. Cover with foil and chill at least 4 hours.

TOPPING Don’t top until just a couple hours before serving as berries can get soft. Start at the outer edge of the pie and make a row of strawberries overlapping the edge of the pie pan a bit. Continue laying out strawberries in circular, overlapping rows. Save one whole berry for the very center of the pie. Heat paraffin and remaining 1/4 cup chocolate (add paraffin if chocolate is too thick to drizzle). Drizzle chocolate from a small spoon over berries.

ARTICLE JOYCE SELK

CityLifestyle.com/Glastonbury

31

MAY

LIFESTYLE CALENDAR PUBLISHER’S NOTE: THESE CALENDAR ITEMS WERE COMPILED DURING THE ONGOING COVID-19 PANDEMIC AND MAY CHANGE

BY THE TIME GLASTONBURY LIFESTYLE PUBLISHES. CHECK WITH EACH ITEM’S LOCAL ORGANIZATION TO DETERMINE IF THE EVENT IS STILL SCHEDULED.

9

the telephone, deeply influenced Deaf

ROUND ROBIN EVENT

Deaf community comes with mixed

education in America. Due to his ardent advocacy for "oralism," his legacy in the

228 Oak Street

feelings. "Bell" will tell the lesser-known

The Glastonbury Tennis Club will host a

story of Alexander and his deaf mother,

kids Round Robin event at the club. The

with music by deaf composer Richard

event will start at noon each day. Trophies

Einhorn. American Sign Language

will be awarded to first place winners and

Interpretation will be provided at this

runners up. Activekids.com.

fully accessible performance.

7

16

17

MORNING LEADS EXCHANGE

DEAD MEN’S TALES: A DISCUSSION IN NEW ENGLAND AND BEYOND

PET SAVER FIRST AID

85 Glastonbury Blvd

A Premier 8-hour class including CPR

Chamber of Commerce will meet

Open to the public and hosted by

techniques, first aid skills, dental care,

at The Tannery of Glastonbury for a

Connecticut Society of Genealogists,

senior care and health and wellness

program on lead-seeking 30-second

Inc., at the Hilton Garden Inn. Registration

information for dogs and cat. Hosted

commercials and great networking

begins at 10 a.m. followed by the Annual

by Linda’s Critter Sitters. 8:30 a.m. –

7:30 a.m. - 9 a.m. Crvchamber.org.

Business Meeting including election of

4:30 p.m. Eventbrite.com

917 New London Turnpike

The

Connecticut

River

Valley

364 Bell St.

new officers and governors for the 2020-

7

2021 year. Luncheon will be at noon

STORYTIME IN GLASTONBURY

May 8. Csginc.org

and the presentation will begin at 1:30 p.m. Cost: $29. Please pre-register by

175 Glastonbury Blvd

Join us at Barnes and Noble for Storytime featuring stories for little ones! All ages are welcome. There may even be songs, finger puppet play, felt board activities and crafts. Every Storytime is different!

Eventbrite.com

31 GLASTONBURY HORSE SHOW 177 Bailey Street

16

Hosted by the Connecticut Color

BELL:

Hunt Club. This will be the club’s first

Breed Association, the event runs from 9 a..m.-3 p.m. at the Glastonbury

Lutheran Church of St. Mark

show of the season and will include

Alexander Graham Bell, inventor of

trophies and ribbons. Allevents.com

ONE STOP SHOP

Hair Nails Makeup Massage Lashes Facial

CROMWELL

ParisianDaySpa.net (860) 632-2144 32

Glastonbury Lifestyle | May 2020

LOCAL’S CHOICE 1.

2.

3.

4.

MY FAVORITE THINGS

5.

6.

7.

WHO GARY PERRELLI WHAT OWNER/PUBLISHER OF GLASTONBURY LIFESTYLE WHERE GLASTONBURY, CT

1. Family (my wife, kids and their significant others) 2. My Grandson - Sonny 3. Golf and golfing at Minnechaug 4. Coffee from SoG 5. Beer at Hops on the Hill 6. Wine from The Best Wine Shop in Town 7. The Yankees!

34

Glastonbury Lifestyle | May 2020

Telling the story is only part of the process... Crafting a unique marketing strategy is the other.

When we are fully immersed in a property, we are ready to craft a specialized marketing strategy tailored to the home and its potential buyers.

Our distinguished photographer captures the homes beauty as we create its presence online and in print advertising around the world.

There is no one size fits all for any of our client’s homes.

From professional photographs and video to a customized website, each home receives our white glove service.

Contact me for a complimentary home evaluation.

It would be my absolute pleasure to serve you!

Dana Flanagan 860-796-0562

www.FlanaganRealtyGroup.com

CityLifestyle.com/Glastonbury

35

30 YE ARS OF E XPERT LEGAL ADVICE AND A STRONG NE T WORK OF RESOURCES Suite 210

860-622-9337 860-955-0955 wkelaw@gmail.com Suite 301

860-430-9642

GLEN LOCHEN

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hello@fulleryoga.com

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HELPING INDIVIDUALS, COUPLES AND PARTNERS BE T TER CONNECT

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860-643-8003 thielechiropractic.com

Suite 230A

860-415-6011 heartsoulct.com

gretchen@heartsoulct.com

thielechiropractic@yahoo.com COMPLIMENTARY CONSULTATION