Holidays & Giving
Tui Na CERTIFICATION WORKSHOP
with Dr. Wu, PH.D
March 1-2, 2025
10am - 6pm
Wu Healing Center:
45 S. Main St. Suite 100 West Hartford
Support for a healthy life.
Learn how to:
• Use 9 easy acupressure lines to treat any condition.
• Use the 1,730 year old “Instant Pain Elimination Technique” to instantly eliminate aches, pains, and other conditions.
• Use 10 simple points to find instant relief from 10 every-day problems (knee pain, shoulder pain, headaches, hip pain, low back pain, etc.)
• Easily find Qi blockages along the 9 acupressure lines and restore Qi flow.
December
You're probably looking at this magazine and wondering, how the heck did we get to December already?!
Our last issue of the year is themed Holidays & Giving, in recognition of all the celebrations we have this month (Christmas, Hanukkah, and Kwanza) that focus on giving.
In keeping with that theme we have a holiday gift guide this month that highlights jewelry for men and women from some of our excellent local jewelry retailers, inlcuding Lux Bond & Green, Armeny Custom Jewelry Designs, Becker's Diamonds & Fine Jewelry and DeRosa Fine Diamonds.
We also have an article about all of the celebratory happenings that are going on this month in the lead up to the holidays.
If you're looking for legal representation we have a profile this month on Cummings & Lockwood LLC, With 115 years of experience, and local offices, Cummings & Lockwood has established itself as a leading law firm, one particularly adept at trust and estate planning.
In addition, we have an article about our special Gift Giving outreach campaign that we run every year to brighten the lives of those in need during the holidays.
Lastly, we have a story on DIY winter crafts and how to create a stunning hot chocolate charcuterie experience.
We hope you enjoy this month's issue of West Hartford Lifestyle Magazine and that you have a happy holiday season!
GARY PERRELLI, PUBLISHER @WESTHARTFORD_LIFESTYLE
December 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
INTERN
Samira Chambers | Samira.chambers@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Lucinda Jamison
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Kaitlyn Casso, John Helmke, Leslie Gomez, LMG Photography
Corporate Team
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Mary Albers
LAYOUT DESIGNER Emily Lisenbee
Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com/franchise.
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!
Arden Courts’ home-like, secure residential setting fosters the individuality of those living with memory impairments. You can trust us as an extension of your family as we welcome your loved one into ours, providing you the peace-of-mind you desire.
To learn more about our services or to arrange for a tour, please contact us today.
arden-courts.org/farmington
Dr.ThomasA. McDonald,MD
Hill,
1-7: The Park Road Neighborhood Association's popular annual parade was held in October.
8-10: During an event on historic construction methods, The Noah Webster House was open for tours. 11-14: Scenes from Blue Back Square's recent annual Burger Bash event.
Fahy Ostop
Amanda Layden
business monthly
Local Author Writes Interactive Children's Book, "The Little Thoughts Inside"
Kenya D’Agustino draws from her own life experiences in her book, "The Little Thoughts Inside." The book helps children differentiate between the thoughts in their heads and the truths in their hearts, fostering emotional awareness and understanding. The book has won gold in the COVR Visionary Awards, which concluded that it is the best new product for the Mind Body Spirit industry of 2024. For more information and to explore the book, visit Devorss.com.
Grayson Books Celebrates Hartford's Architecture with New Anthology
Grayson Books, a small press based in West Hartford, recently published an anthology, "Of Hartford in Many Lights: Celebrating Hartford's Buildings," that pays tribute to the architectural beauty of Hartford. This collection highlights the city’s iconic buildings, blending historical insights with artistic expressions that celebrate the rich cultural heritage of the area. For more information and to purchase the anthology, visit graysonbooks.com.
Ginny Lowe Connors Set to Release Sixth Poetry Collection
West Hartford Poet Emerita Ginny Lowe Connors, is releasing her sixth poetry collection, set to launch in November from The Poetry Box. Her latest collection promises to weave together profound themes and vivid imagery, inviting readers to explore the depths of emotion and thought that characterize her work. Stay tuned for the release, and for more information about Ginny Lowe Connors and her poetry, visit ginnyloweconnors.com.
Photography by Connecticut Historical Monument Society ·
Dr. Vasanth Kainkaryam Honored with 2024 Visionary Culture Award
Dr. Vasanth Kainkaryam, founder of 4 Elements Direct Primary Care & Wellness Space, has been awarded the prestigious 2024 Visionary Culture Award. This accolade recognizes his innovative approach to healthcare, emphasizing personalized, patient-centered care in a welcoming environment. 4 Elements promotes holistic wellness, integrating physical, mental, and emotional health to support patients in their journey toward optimal well-being. For more details about their services and philosophy, visit 4elementsdpc.com.
Scan to read more
Aurora Foundation Announces Young Women's Initiative
The Aurora Women and Girls Foundation has launched a nationally-funded Young Women’s Initiative, a leadership-development program for high school girls of color based at the YWCA in New Britain. It is the first of its kind in Connecticut and brings international funding to Connecticut’s women and girls via the Ares Charitable Foundation and the Collaborative, which is supported by Melinda French Gates’ Pivotal Ventures, the Ford Foundation, and various family foundations. Visit Aurorafoundation.org for information.
Now Open: Mother Nature Landscaping & Design
Mother Nature Landscaping & Design is passionate about transforming outdoor spaces into inspiring environments that reflect the beauty of nature and the creativity of our clients. As a women-owned business, they take pride in their commitment to sustainability and innovative design, and enhancing the aesthetics of your property through eco-friendly practices. To book their holiday decor design and setup services for front stoops, home entrances, backyards, events, and parties, call Mother Nature Landscaping at 917-514-6947.
Photography by John Helmke
Photography by Leslie Gomez, LMG Photography
Vale Foot & Ankle Surgery, PLLC
ARTICLE BY LUCINDA JAMISON
PHOTOGRAPHY BY KAITLYN CASSO
Cummings & Lockwood
Marc T. Finer
“We’re fostering long-term relationships that often extend through generations.”
With 115 years of experience, Cummings & Lockwood LLC has established itself as a leading law firm, one particularly adept at trust and estate planning and handling the sophisticated legal needs of its affluent clients, their families, family offices, businesses and charitable entities.
The firm’s Private Clients Group offers a full spectrum of legal services, from strategies to ensure that assets pass as intended in a tax-efficient manner to succession planning for closely-held businesses. Despite the complex nature of trust, estate, gift and income tax laws, Cummings & Lockwood maintains a simple philosophy: preserve and enhance the financial well-being and quality of life for individuals interested in safeguarding their future.
Caroline Demirs Calio, a Principal in the Private Clients Group, has spent considerable time helping families and business owners navigate the intricacies of estate tax and asset protection planning.
“We’re fostering long-term relationships that often extend through generations,” she explains. “We work with clients to navigate changing tax landscapes and to protect their resources through thoughtful planning.” Caroline emphasizes the firm’s multifaceted approach: from guiding young families in appointing guardians for their children to advising seasoned entrepreneurs on sophisticated asset protection and business succession planning strategies. She affirms that trust and estate planning isn’t solely about managing the transfer of substantial wealth; it’s also about making strategic decisions to ensure that clients’ assets are handled according to their wishes, regardless of size and value.
Marc Finer, another Principal and an integral Cummings & Lockwood team member, brings his unique blend of skills that bridge income tax planning and business law. He also highlights the firm’s all-encompassing, proactive approach.
“Many clients come to us for estate planning and discover we can assist with much more, from real estate deals to complex business transactions.” This integrated approach ensures that clients receive comprehensive solutions tailored to their unique needs. “We help clients ask the right questions, often ones they haven’t considered. This way, they’re not just planning for the future; they’re actively shaping it,” Marc shares. This involves a detailed understanding of each client’s immediate family, business dynamics, and long-term aspirations.
Caroline Demirs Calio
Beyond tax and business planning, Cummings & Lockwood also advises its clients on various charitable giving strategies. Many clients wish to leave behind a philanthropic legacy, beyond their immediate family, which involves making charitable contributions or setting up various charitable trusts or foundations. The firm assists in structuring these gifts to maximize the benefits delivered to both the donor and the charity.
Cummings & Lockwood’s approach to every client matter reflects the spirit of community and a commitment to delivering highly personalized client service. “We consider our clients as part of our extended family. We’re here to protect their interests and ensure their legacy thrives,” Caroline adds passionately.
Client relationships are at the heart of Cummings & Lockwood’s practice. Firm attorneys stress the importance of personally understanding their clients’ specific needs. “We see our role as not just advisors but partners in our clients’ long-term journeys,” says Caroline.
The firm’s legal practice is built on a foundation of trust and mutual respect, ensuring that each client feels heard, understood and valued. “It’s about more than just legal outcomes,” Marc notes. “It’s about ensuring our clients are prepared for the future, protecting what matters most to them.”
For residents of West Hartford, Glastonbury, and beyond, Cummings & Lockwood represents more than a law firm; it is a lifelong partner in navigating the complicated legal landscape. “We endeavor to provide our private clients with industry-leading
knowledge and expertise; sophisticated, client focused strategies; stability and continuity for multi-generational families and their businesses; and an exceptional client experience,” states Heather J. Rhoades, Chair of the firm’s Private Clients Group. By blending sophisticated legal strategies with an exceptional personal touch, the firm ensures that clients’ legacies are protected and their wishes are honored, making the complexities of estate and business planning more navigable and less daunting.
To learn more about Cummings & Lockwood’s Private Clients Group and the broad range of legal services they provide, visit their website at cl-law.com or contact Marc Finer or Caroline Demirs Calio directly.
Cummings & Lockwood LLC
Blue Back Square
75 Isham Road, Suite 400, West Hartford
Phone: 860.313.4900
Online: cl-law.com
Marc T. Finer, Esq.
Principal, Private Clients Group
Phone: 860.313.4946 Email: mfiner@cl-law.com
Caroline Demirs Calio, Esq.
Principal, Private Clients Group
Phone: 860.313.4936. Email: ccalio@cl-law.com
Caroline Demirs Calio and Marc T. Finer
Gift Guide HOLIDAY
LUX BOND & GREEN
Since 1898 Lux Bond & Green Jewelers has been dedicated to offering extraordinary diamonds, jewelry, watches, and gifts for the home and operates stores throughout the state, including in Glastonbury and West Hartford. Lux Bond & Green offers holiday gift items for him and her from top designers, including Marco Bicego, Roberto Coin, Ippolita, and David Yurman.
Lux Bond & Green West Hartford 46 LaSalle Road 860-521-3015
Glastonbury 170 Glastonbury Blvd Somerset Square 860-659-8510
Online: Lbgreen.com
Top: For Her: A diamond tennis bracelet.
Bottom:
For Him: A David Yurman sterling silver chevron bracelet.
ARMENY CUSTOM JEWELRY DESIGN
At Armeny Custom Jewelry Design owner Armen Manukyan crafts his jewelry to showcase the brilliance of natural gemstones and high-end metals. For him and her this year, Armeny Custom Jewelry features rings in 14K gold vermeil. Womens rings showcasing a range of stunning gems, including deep amethyst, soft pink DeFrance amethyst, fresh prasiolite, sparkling crystal, and warm citrine. The 14K gold vermeil—consisting of a thick layer of gold over sterling silver—offers a luxurious yet durable finish. Perfect for those who value timeless designs, these rings blend natural elegance with refined craftsmanship. For men, elevate your style with our custom-designed 14K yellow gold bands, featuring a timeless scroll design and a sophisticated look combining tradition with a modern edge.
Armeny Custom Jewelry Design 995B Farmington Ave., West Hartford Online: Armeny.com 860-232-3200
Top:
For Her: Custom Designed Rings with Natural Gems and 14K Gold Vermeil
Bottom:
For Him: Gold bands with sparkling diamonds
DEROSA FINE DIAMONDS
This holiday season, jewelry trends for both men and women are embracing individuality, bold designs, and sustainable luxury. For women, oversized earrings, colorful gemstones, and layered necklaces are taking center stage, allowing for expressive, statement-making pieces. On the men’s side, bold rings, heavy chains, and personalized pendants are becoming must-have items, combining elegance with a modern edge. At De Rosa Fine Diamonds, we bring these trends to life with our in-house custom jewelry services. Working with us means that every piece you select can be tailored to your exact vision, ensuring it’s truly one of a kind. Our master artisan/s handle each piece with the highest attention to detail, ensuring quality and durability for generations to come.
DeRosa Fine Diamonds & Jewelry 49 Welles St., Suite 214, Glastonbury 203-907-8633
Online: Derosafinediamonds.com
Bottom: For Him: A custom-designed signet ring.
Top: For Her: A sterling silver and diamond encrusted garnet ring.
BECKER'S DIAMONDS & FINE JEWELRY
With stores in Glastonbury, West Hartford and Old Saybrook, Becker’s for 45 years has continually offered high quality diamonds and fine jewelry, along with a vast Estate Department with a varied collection of antique & vintage jewelry and pre-owned Swiss watches. Each location features a Jewelry Service & Repair Studio as well as a complete Custom Design Department. The company also has a master Goldsmith on staff as well as multiple GIA Graduate Gemologists. Jewelry for men and women at the holidays has grown in popularity over the years, including necklaces, bracelets and rings for him and her.
Becker’s Fine Diamonds & Jewelry West Hartford 65 LaSalle Road
860-521-3202
Glastonbury 2846 Main St. 860-652-8900
Online: Beckers.com
Top:
For Her: A 14K yellow gold Gabriel & Co. diamond Pave Bujukan 24 MM Medallion pendant with a total diamond weight of 2 carats. You can choose the chain length.
Bottom:
For Him: A classic 14K, yellow gold, 22-inch Miami Cuban solid chain that is 5 MM wide.
Making Spirits
JOIN OUR MISSION TO SPREAD WARMTH AND COMPASSION BY NOMINATING SOMEONE WHO DESERVES A CHRISTMAS BLESSING
“We believe in giving back and serving the communities where we live in a real and tangible way.”
As the Christmas season approaches, we’re reminded of the power of community and kindness. This year, through City Lifestyle’s nonprofit, The Kingdom Building Foundation, we will help people who may be struggling quietly without the support they need. But we need your help to find them.
Over the past three years, this campaign has grown into something truly beautiful, touching the lives of more than 150 families nationwide last year alone. Each year, we’ve seen firsthand how generosity can bring relief, hope, and a renewed sense of faith in others.
One person we had the opportunity to help was an 11-year-old boy diagnosed with a rare eye cancer. After he had to undergo chemotherapy and surgery to remove his eye, his doctors recommended a prosthetic one, but insurance wouldn’t cover the cost, calling it “cosmetic.” When we heard his story, we knew we had to help. Because of this campaign, he got his prosthetic eye and a piece of his childhood back with it.
Another was a wife and mother of two who fought a yearlong health battle and was diagnosed with a brain tumor. Just days before Christmas, she underwent surgery but passed away due to complications. Before her surgery, she received one of our cards and, in tears, told us this gift gave her some peace, knowing her family would have help in the difficult times ahead. It wasn’t just about the financial support but knowing that someone cared.
These stories remind us why this campaign is so meaningful. It’s not just
about writing checks; it’s about telling people they aren’t forgotten and that someone is there to lend a hand. It’s about giving families a moment of relief when the world feels unbearable.
“We believe in giving back and serving the communities where we live in a real and tangible way,” says Steven Schowengerdt, CEO and founder of City Lifestyle. “This Giving Campaign is about personally impacting the lives of people we know with an unexpected check in the mail just to say that someone thought of them this holiday season.”
Together with Matthew Perry, President, Steven adds that the gratitude from recipients was overwhelming, affirming this tradition’s importance. “We believe God has blessed our company with success,” Matthew adds, “so we want to be a blessing to others.”
We know many more people could use a little help this Christmas, and that’s where you come in. Do you know someone who could use a blessing? We want to hear about them.
To nominate someone, scan the QR code or follow @CityLifestyle on Instagram, where you’ll find the form in our bio. Nominations are open from November 27 to December 10, 2024. Let’s bring hope to those who need it most.
The City Lifestyle Giving Campaign is completely confidential. No identities will be revealed or publicized. All entries will be read, and selections and the amount given to each recipient will be based on the severity of the need. For more information, visit KingdomBuildingFoundation.com
WINTER REVELS
Local Holiday Happenings, Light Shows and Celebrations This Year
• Location: Blue Back Square
• Date: Dec. 5, 5 p.m.
• Details: Get in the holiday spirit with West Hartford’s classic New England-style Holiday Stroll at Blue Back Square and West Hartford Center.
• On Facebook: @Whartfordcenter.
• Location: The Bushnell, Hartford
• Dates: December 14-22
• Details: A classic holiday performance by local ballet companies. Visit Bushnell.com
• Location: West Hartford Town Hall, 50 South Main St.
• Date: December 29
• Details: This annual daylong celebration and observance of Hanukkah is sponsored by the Chabad House of Greater Hartford and includes a community menorah lighting ceremony, music, kids activities, and food.
• On Facebook: @ChabadHartford
1. ANNUAL HOLIDAY STROLL
2. NUTCRACKER BALLET
2. FIRE ON ICE HANUKKAH CELEBRATION
Chabad House of Greater Hartford holds an annual Fire on Ice festival to celebrate Hanukkah.
West Hartford's annual Holiday Stroll is a popular Christmas celebration each year.
The Nutcracker Ballet is a holiday tradition at The Bushnell.
5.
NORTH POLAR EXPRESS AT GRAY GRANITE RAILROAD
• Location: Cavanna Farms, South Glastonbury
• Dates: Various days, November 23 - December 22, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.
• Details: The Gray Granite Railroad at Cavanna Farms offers a magical train ride to Santa’s cabin with optional horse-drawn wagon rides. Tickets: $10 (Children 2 and under free).
• Visit Graygraniterailroad.com
4. WINTERFAIR HARTFORD
• Location: Union Station, Downtown Hartford
• Dates: November 30 - December 22, Saturdays and Sundays, noon-5 p.m.
• Details: A festive holiday market inside Union Station’s Great Hall, featuring over 30 vendors on each of the eight market days.
• Visit Winterfarehartford.com
6. FIRST NIGHT HARTFORD
• Location: Various locations throughout the city.
• Date: December 31, 2 p.m. - midnight
• Details: A New Year's Eve tradition featuring a day of art, music, food, and community, with two fireworks shows in Bushnell Park at 6 p.m. and midnight.
• Visit Firstnighthartford.org for information and tickets.
The Gray Granite Railroad at Cavanna Farms.
Winterfair in Hartford features dozens of local vendors for holiday shopping.
First Night Hartford is held every New Year's Eve.
7. GLOW HARTFORD
• Location: Connecticut Convention Center, Hartford
• Dates: November 29 - December 29
• Details: Celebrate the holiday season with an indoor light display featuring a million lights. Tickets: $20 for children, $30 for adults, $15 for seniors.
• Visit Hartford.glowgardens.com for tickets and information.
8. STORYTIME WITH SANTA
• Location: Webster Walk at Blue Back Square, Isham Road
• Date: December 22, 2-4 p.m.
• Details: Santa will visit and read holiday classics for kids.
• Visit Bluebacksquare.com .
Glow Hartford's light displays include familiar sites from around the globe.
CRAFTING CHEER: DIY WINTER CRAFTS
ARTICLE BY ERICA BIBB | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
ORNAMENT CLUSTERS
SUPPLIES
• 22 gauge wire
• Ornaments of at least 3 varying shades and sizes
• Wire snips
STEP 1
Cut desired length of wire for a cluster, about 24”
STEP 2
Add an ornament about 4” from one end of the wire and twist the wire around the top of the ornament to provide a base for your cluster. Twist about 5 times. You should still have about 4” of wire at the end; you will need it to tie onto your garland, tree, or wreath.
STEP 3
Continue adding ornaments to the wire, alternating sizes and colors until you have 4-6” of wire remaining.
STEP 4
Twist the remaining wire around the top of your final ornament 5 times to secure all of your ornaments in place. Making sure to leave at least 4” of wire in place at the end in order to tie onto garland, tree, or wreath.
STEP 5
Use the ends of the wire to attach to your holiday item of choice!!
Pro tip: Keep your clusters to the 24” length to keep from getting too heavy and/or having ornaments pop off. Ornaments will pop off at times, but they will still look gorgeous and you can always glue the ornament back onto to the top. Simple, gorgeous, and impactful!
DIY WINTER WREATH
SUPPLIES
• pruning scissors
• grapevine wreath form
• 22 gauge wire
• wire snips
• hot glue gun
• hot glue
• 3 types of fresh cut greens (you can also use artificial and have a wreath that will last you year after year!)
• fresh eucalyptus
• pinecones
• bells or ornaments
• ribbon
STEP 1
Trim greens removing any bald spots and extra length. Lengths of greens should vary between 5-10”.
STEP 2
Create clusters with the greens and eucalyptus, using all 3 of the greens. Create the cluster and then wrap the cluster with the 22 gauge wire onto the grapevine wreath form (starting at the top of your wreath), making sure that the wire is tight. Wrap 5-7 times to ensure everything will stay in place. Do not cut the wire. Set to the side to use for the next cluster.
STEP 3
Continue adding fresh green clusters going down your wreath and slightly alternating the angle the greens are pointing. Finish your final cluster and give yourself 3-4” of additional wire to twist close at the back of the wreath to finish and secure.
SIMPLE GORGEOUS IMPACTFUL
STEP 4
Place ribbon at the end of the clusters to hide any ribbon. We tied a knot with the ribbon around the wreath and then wrapped several times around the wreath.
STEP 5
Tie on ornaments, bells, or pinecones to hang from the wreath. This is optional, you may just want to add a pretty bow or even keep it as is at this point! When tying on the extra baubles, remember to cut your ribbon at varying lengths, so the bells or ornaments can hang at different levels. Tie the 3 ribbons together and then tie as one onto your wreath.
STEP 6
Add desired number of pinecones and put in place with hot glue. You can wire on the pinecones, but I like the control of placement is easier with the hot glue method.
Pro tip: keep taking a step back as you construct your wreath and keep in mind that sometimes less is more. Don’t be afraid to make edits and trust your eye!
For more inspiration visit www.porchandpatioco.com
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.
Paul L. Bourdeau
Principal, Private Clients Group 860.313.4930 pbourdeau@cl-law.com
Caroline Demirs Calio
Principal, Private Clients Group 860.313.4936 ccalio@cl-law.com
Robert B. Fawber
Principal, Private Clients Group 860.313.4931 rfawber@cl-law.com
Marc T. Finer
Principal, Private Clients Group 860.313.4946 mfiner@cl-law.com
Kelley Galica Peck
Principal-in-Charge, West Hartford Office 860.313.4919 kpeck@cl-law.com
Heather J. Rhoades
Chairman, Private Clients Group 860.313.4933 hrhoades@cl-law.com
For a private consultation, please contact one of our attorneys.
Blue Back Square
75 Isham Road, Suite 400 West Hartford, CT 06107
Phone: 860.313.4900
Fax: 860.313.4993
Our core services include:
■ Executor and trustee services
■ Business succession planning
■ Fiduciary, probate and tax litigation
■ Residential and commercial real estate services
■ Corporate and finance services
■ International estate and tax planning
■ Probate and estate settlement
■ Business litigation, arbitration and dispute resolution
www.cl-law.com
STAMFORD
Get Your Life BACK
Are you ready to say goodbye to back pain and hello to a life without limits? M. Ayodele Buraimoh, MD, a nationally-recognized leader in spine health is opening a private practice to bring you the latest advancements in spinal care. Whether you're sidelined by discomfort or seeking preventive care, it’s time to unlock a future free from pain and rediscover the activities you love most.
Office opening in September. Schedule your consultation today! The Orthopedic Center of Connecticut 130 Birdseye Road Farmington, CT 06032
M. Ayodele Buraimoh, MD
events
DECEMBER 4TH
The Ugly Christmas Sweater Musical
Playhouse on Park, 244 Park Road | 7:30 PM
Blending the comedy of The Office with the competitiveness of Project Runway, The Ugly Christmas Sweater Musical is a laugh-out-loud, interactive musical about a group of employees who must take desperate measures when they learn their company is being bought by an international conglomerate. The show previews Dec. 4 and runs all months. Visit Playhouseonpark.org for tickets and showtimes.
DECEMBER 8TH
Blue Back Mitten Run 5K
Blue Back Square, Isham Road | 10:00 AM
This festive family 5K tradition welcomes runners and walkers of all ages and abilities to celebrate the season as a community in the CLA Blue Back Mitten Run. 5K participants earn a holiday inspired mittens and enjoy delicious holiday cookies post-race in Blue Back Square. Visit Hartfordmarathon.com for information.
DECEMBER 12TH
Lullaby of Broadway, South Main Music Series
Noah Webster House, 227 South Main St., West Hartford | 6:30 PM
Join us for a masterful piano and vocal presentation of the most memorable songs of Broadway’s Golden Age. Featuring John Brighenti and Gail Lumpkin, “Lullaby of Broadway,” offers a selection of classic songs from the early days of the Great White Way to the present! Seating is first come-first served and limited to 50 guests. Noahwebsterhouse.org for information.
DECEMBER 14TH
CitySingers of Hartford: Hearth and Tapestry
First Church West Hartford, 12 South Main St. | 4:00 PM
Hearth and Tapestry binds the musical fabric of cultures from around the globe to remind us of our shared human experience. This concert sews together vibrant pieces of patchwork, hailing from the isles of Indonesia to the foothills of France, into one festive wintry quilt. Tickets are $20, sold at the door. Visit Citysingers.org.
DECEMBER 14TH
Multicultural Holiday Music for Guitar & Mandolin
Noah Webster Library, 20 South Main St. | 1:00 PM
Join us for a concert by "Judy & Mark" as they play original arrangements of traditional and contemporary holiday music with an international flavor. This husband and wife duo, Judy Handler and Mark Levesque, create inspiring programs of music for guitar and mandolin in a friendly and engaging performance. Visit Westhartfordlibrary.org for more information.
DECEMBER 19TH
Good Life Series
Bishops Corner Senior Center, 15 Starkel Road | 2:00 PM
Created by University of Saint Joseph students in collaboration with the non-profit “For All Ages,” this program will help seniors learn about specific health-related topics surrounding healthy aging. The series will explore nutrition, social connections, and staying active. Email whsc@westhartfordct.gov to register for this free event.
realty report
CONFECTION
Elevate your holiday hot chocolate with a charcuterie experience
As winter settles in and the air chills, there’s nothing more comforting than a steaming cup of hot chocolate. Take it up a notch and indulge in a hot cocoa charcuterie board. Picture a delightful spread of various hot chocolate flavors, mix-ins, and toppings, inviting you to create a personalized, delicious mug of joy.
OLD-FASHIONED HOT COCOA
Ingredients
• ¼ cup 60% cacao chocolate morsels
• ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa
• 1/3 cup white granulated sugar
• 2 cups milk
• 2 cups half and half
• 1 pinch salt
• ½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Directions
Heat all ingredients (except vanilla extract) in a 2-quart saucepan over medium-low heat until almost boiling. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
CREATING THE PERFECT HOT COCOA CHARCUTERIE BOARD
Gone are the days of selecting only between marshmallows and whipped cream as toppings. With a hot cocoa charcuterie board, you can delve into a world of flavors, textures and spices that will make each sip an adventure.
Begin by selecting a variety of flavors and mix-ins, such as mini marshmallows, salted caramels, white chocolate morsels and peppermints. Pair your hot cocoa with delectable treats like cookies, gum drops, crème-filled wafer rolls or chocolate-covered espresso beans. Consider adding biscotti, chocolate-dipped spoons or chocolate-coated pretzels as well as whipped toppings and an assortment of sprinkles.
ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY MINDY WESTER
