West Hartford, CT June 2024

Tui Na CERTIFICATION WORKSHOP

with Dr. Wu, PH.D

June 29-30, 2024

10am - 6pm

Wu Healing Center:

45 S. Main St. Suite 100 West Hartford

• Easily find Qi blockages along the 9 acupressure lines and restore Qi flow. 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.)

June

In recognition of Father’s Day, which is Sunday, June 16, this month’s West Hartford Lifestyle Magazine is The Men’s Issue, with stories about inspirational and interesting men, as well as products and services for men.

Our cover man for this month is a well-known ESPN anchor, Gary Striewski, and a host of the network’s SportsCenter program. He shares with us his thoughts about how his position at ESPN is a testament to the power of passion, perseverance and the pursuit of one's dreams.

Speaking of well-known Connecticut men, we sat down for a chat with Dan Hurley, coach of the UConn Men's Basketball team, which this year won its second championship in a row under Dan's leadership. We talked about that, but also about being a father, husband and son and how those roles have informed and influenced his spectacular career as a coach.

And speaking of coaches, we also have a story this month on  Harry Bellucci, the former head football coach at Hartford Public High School, and how he has spent much of his life working to improve access to sports for Hartford-region kids.

If you're looking for inspirational male role models, look no farther than Victor Gonzalez and his brother Antonio Alves. The pair overcame a disadvantaged childhood to become highly successful businessmen who work for financial firms here in West Hartford.

We also have a profile this month on Chip Janiszewsk, the chairman of the West Hartford Chamber of Commerce. A seasoned businessman and motivational speaker, Chip has a consulting firm that teaches business professionals how to spread positivity and kindness in the workplace.

In our Now Open feature we take a look at the new Gameday Men's Health clinic that is opening on North Main Street and the unique approach the medical clinic takes toward helping men with low testosterone and other male-related health issues.

We hope you enjoy this month's issue of West Hartford Lifestyle Magazine and that you have a Happy Father's Day!

GARY PERRELLI, PUBLISHER @WESTHARTFORD_LIFESTYLE

June 2024

PUBLISHER

Gary Perrelli | gary.perrelli@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

Eileen McNamara | eileen.mcnamara@citylifestyle.com

ACCOUNT MANAGER

Jill Barry | jill.barry@citylifestyle.com

PUBLISHER ASSISTANT

Ivy Perrelli | ivy.perrelli@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Lucinda Jamison, Sara Kennedy, Brian Boyer, Allie Bellucci

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Brian Ambrose, Nadine Zuchorski, Allie Bellucci, Lisa Mahoney, Joe Faraoni, Connecticut Headshots, Ira Nozik, Roger Castonguay, Austin Bigony, Jordan Arnold

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

Proverbs 3:5-6

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!

The

MAGNIFICENT SETTING, INCOMPARABLE

city scene

WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

1-7: RiverLane Boutique's Spring Style event with legendary fashion icon Clinton Kelly in Essex Village.

business monthly

Emily Antenucci - "Little Girls in the Big, Wide World"

Local author Emily Antenucci Struss recently debuted her new book, “ Little Girls in the Big, Wide World.” The children's book takes readers on a global adventure that inspires young readers to explore the vastness of our planet through the eyes of three intrepid young girls. "Little Girls in the Big, Wide World" is "a gateway to dreams and a testament to the boundless potential every child holds within." Available on Amazon.

Parisian Salon and Day Spa Unveils New Goldwell Studio

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

Studio 310 Expands Staff Roster

Studio 310 has added several new coaches to their roster. "We are happy to welcome personal trainers Kaylah Miron, Winston Cobb, and Aaron Gidman as well as group instructors Brianna Kennedy and Mary Frances." Learn more about the new team members or Studio 310's fitness services visit them at Studio310ct.com

Photography by Carrie Draghi

Photography by Ira Nozik

University of Hartford Names New President

Lawrence P. Ward, Ed.D,  a "dynamic leader" in higher education, will be the next president of the University of Hartford, the school has announced. Ward is currently vice president for learner success and dean of campus life at Babson College in Wellesley, Mass. He will become UHart’s seventh president on July 1. He succeeds acting president Stephen Mulready and former president Gregory Woodward, who retired last year. Visit Hartford.edu for information.

Aurora Foundation Adds Staff and New Directors

The Aurora Women and Girls Foundation celebrated its 24th anniversary at its recent Annual Meeting and introduced four new faces to the organization -- a staff member and three Board members. Michelle Murphy was named development director for Aurora and joining the board were Attorney Rauchell Beckford-Anderson of SImsbury, Katherine Hall of West Granby, an executive with Koyamada International Foundation, and Tina St. Pierre of Wethersfield, an executive with Ares Management. Visit Aurorafoundation.org for information.

West Hartford Resident Publishes Memoir

Maria Souza Hogan lives in West Hartford and teaches. Published late 2023, her memoir  Samba of Survival: My Light Within is an empowering mosaic of memories, poetry, songs, history, oral history, and culture. It is an informative text, an immigrant success story of overcoming the pitfalls of poverty in the Brazilian favelas and becoming a professor in the United States. Available on Amazon.

Photography by Defining Studios –Roger Castonguay

Wellness Acupuncture Center Adds New Staff

Joins us in welcoming two new staff members to our practice. Dr. Ana Engelhardt, ND, is a recent graduate from Sonoran University with a rich background in Nutritional Sciences from the University of Connecticut, Dr. Ana specializes in combining Eastern and Western medical practices to craft personalized treatment plans. Alison Larocca, a passionate advocate for holistic health, brings her diverse experience in Chinese Medicine, Acupuncture, Craniosacral therapy, and yoga to our team. Visit Wholenessacupuncturecenter.com.

Scan to read more

Seniors Job Bank Joins Birdies For Charity

The Seniors Job Bank, a West Hartford-based nonprofit that pairs employers with job seekers over the age of 50, has joined other nonprofits that benefit from the Travelers Championship golf tournament Birdies for Charity program. Under the initiatives donations to SJB through Birdies will be matched up to 15 percent by Webster Bank. The funding match means "SJB can to tap into the excitement of Connecticut’s only PGA Tour event." Visit Seniorsjobbankct.org for more information.

Photography by Nadine Zuchorsky

ARTICLE BY EILEEN M. MCNAMARA | PHOTOGRAPHY BY AUSTIN BIGONEY AND JORDAN ARNOLD

DAN HURLEY LEADS UCONN MEN'S BASKETBALL BUT REMAINS A GROUNDED HUSBAND, FATHER AND COACH

THE FAMILY MAN

Coach Dan Hurley, courtside.

Fresh off his second consecutive men’s college basketball championship, UConn Coach Dan Hurley sees his life and career in holistic and humbling terms.

“It really hasn’t changed the things that are important to us and we treat our program like they are family and

basketball for nearly 50 years, coaching at night after working days as a probation officer. His brother Bobby Hurley was a college All-American and two-time National Champion player at Duke. He also played in the NBA for five years, and is currently the head

“WE'VE NEVER REALLY PURSUED ANYTHING IN COACHING FOR THE REWARDS.”

my family keeps me grounded,” he says.

When he speaks inclusively, Hurley means his wife Andrea and sons, Andrew and Danny - as well as the young men he and Andrea nurture and view as an extension of their nuclear family, the UConn Men’s basketball team.

And the rewards that have come with that, a multi-year, multi-million dollar contract with UConn, hasn’t changed the goals he and Andrea have pursued since they met in college more than 25 years ago.

“We approach every day just trying to serve kids,” he said. “Our purpose has been our family and to help raise kids through our basketball program and to develop holistic and successful adults. It’s me and Andrea and our team, and our lives aren’t that complicated.”

A native of the blue-collar stronghold of Jersey City, N.J. Hurley grew up in a basketball-centered family. His dad, Bob Hurley, coached high school

coach at Arizona State.

Watching his dad’s devotion to coaching and his family helped cement Dan Hurley’s work ethic and devotion to his team, Andrea says.

“I’ve only known him to go 110 percent. Even in his high school coaching days he would work really long hours.

I got used to that a long time ago.”

Dan was coaching at the University of Rhode Island in 2018 when he was recruited by UConn. The Connecticut team at that time was struggling after years of national dominance in college basketball. He undertook a steady rebuilding program, and led the team to its fifth national championship in 2023, only to cap that with a second title this year.

His ascension to becoming one of - if not the - top college men’s basketball coaches in the country, the couple says, is not what either of them sought out or expected when

Dan first started coaching high school basketball after graduating college.

“It’s pretty easy for us because we’ve never really pursued anything in coaching for the rewards,” Dan says. “When you grow up in a place like Jersey City and you don’t come from a whole lot, then you don’t need a whole lot. You feel like your life has a purpose and our purpose has been our family.”

The couple’s son Andrew played for UConn this past year and graduated in May.

Dan and Andrea, who goes to all the UConn men’s games, say the opportunity to spend time with Andrew during the season was “incredible.”

“It’s been awesome because you miss a lot of things as a college coach, events in high school and grade school, for example, but we’ve had a chance to make up for lost time,” Dan says.

Being on the team, he adds, also helped Andrew grow as a player and a leader.

“Not only is he a good player but he really helped the team, he’s been an awesome leader in the locker room.”

Dan and Andrea moved to Glastonbury when Dan took the UConn job in part because of the town’s reputation for

Coach Dan Hurley

Coach Hurley gets a hug from his wife, Andrea, following a game.

“YOU FEEL LIKE YOUR LIFE HAS A PURPOSE.”

excellent schools and for being a vibrant community. The family is a member of St. Dunstan Parish here.

Since marrying, the couple says, they have acted as a cohesive team focused on managing their family and Dan’s career together.

But Dan credits Andrea for being a steady guiding force in his life.

“What changed my life was meeting my wife Andrea. She gave me this beautiful family and she’s been the best partner that I could ever imagine and she’s helped me become a better man. She’s taken the rough edges off the guy from Jersey City.”

Dan Hurley with his wife, Andrea, and sons Andrew (left), and Danny.

Coach Hurley takes the net following UConn men's second championship win.

Coach Hurley with UConn men's basketball team members.

ESPN's Gary Striewski:

THE JOURNEY FROM MIDDLE SCHOOL

ANNOUNCEMENTS TO ESPN STARDOM

ARTICLE BY BRIAN BOYER

PHOTOGRAPHY

BY JOE FARAONI/ESPN

IMAGES

Gary at the ESPYs doing red carpet interviews with former NBA players Evan Turner and Andre Iguodala.

Gary on the set of SportsCenter with his co-anchor, Randy Scott.

In the world of sports broadcasting, Gary Striewski is a familiar face, known for his charisma, insight and unwavering dedication to his craft. Born in Korea and now calling West Hartford home – with many stops in between - Striewski’s journey to becoming an ESPN anchor is a testament to the power of passion, perseverance and the pursuit of one’s dreams.

From an early age, Striewski exhibited a natural inclination towards communication, often finding himself in trouble for chatting in the library instead of burying his nose in books. However, it was this penchant for conversation that ultimately led him down the path of broadcasting. Instead of detention, he was assigned the task of delivering daily school announcements at his middle school. Striewski discovered a newfound passion for the spotlight, relishing the recognition he received from his peers as he strolled down the hallways. Now, the hallways at ESPN are longer and more prominent than walking to math class.

“It’s not just about getting to a place like ESPN; it’s about staying there,” says Striewski, emphasizing the importance of experience and resilience in an industry as competitive as sports media. “Success is not merely a destination but a journey—one marked by countless memorable encounters and invaluable experiences.”

Memories of chance encounters with sports figures like New York Mets star Brandon Nimmo and NFL legend and former Houston Texans icon JJ Watt serve as reminders of the unpredictable nature of his career.

From rubbing shoulders with athletes on the road to engaging in conversations with legends like football Hall of Famer Randy Moss and basketball personality Dick Vitale, Striewski’s journey is a testament to the countless opportunities that arise from putting in the work and seizing every moment.

“Every step of the journey, from the school announcements to the ESPN studio, has been a lesson in resilience and adaptability.  It’s about putting in the work Success is not handed to you. You have to earn it, every step of the way.”

Behind the glitz and glamour of the television screen lies a world of tireless dedication and collaborative effort. Striewski credits the countless individuals who work tirelessly behind the scenes to bring shows like SportsCenter to life, acknowledging the immense teamwork and dedication required to produce quality content day in and day out.

In an age where social media reigns supreme, Gary remains steadfast in his commitment to integrity and professionalism, on air and off.

“If you wouldn’t say it to your mother at Thanksgiving dinner, don’t say it on TV or online,” he advises, underscoring the importance of maintaining authenticity and respect in all interactions.

As the digital landscape continues to evolve, Gary sees endless opportunities for aspiring broadcasters to make their mark. With more platforms than ever for sports coverage, he encourages newcomers to hone their skills and stay informed by reading daily and practicing their craft.

Away from the hustle and bustle of the studio, Gary says he finds solace in the quiet life he enjoys with his girlfriend and dog in West Hartford while frequenting the town’s coffee shops and restaurants.

Family values and a centered perspective remain central to his ethos, serving as guiding principles in an industry known for its highs and lows. In the fast-paced world of sports broadcasting,  his journey serves as an inspiration—a reminder that with passion, perseverance and a belief in oneself, anything is possible.

“It's not just about getting to a place like ESPN; it's about staying there.

Success isn't merely a destination but a journey — one marked by countless memorable encounters.”

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SENIORS JOB BANK

THE GREATER HARTFORD NONPROFIT IS SEEING AN INCREASE OF MATURE, EXPERIENCED WORKERS

ARTICLE BY EILEEN M. MCNAMARA | PHOTOGRAPHY BY LISA MAHONEY

Robin Clare, Executive Director of the Seniors Job Bank, meets with a board member.

The number of mature workers over age 50 who are still working full or part-time jobs is growing, a trend fueled in part by the Baby Boom generation and the overall greater health conditions of our country’s aging population.

According to the Pew Research Center, about one-fifth of people age 65 and older were employed in 2023 – nearly double the number of people in that age group who were working 35 years ago.

Not only are older workers increasing in number, their earning power has grown as well. In 2022, the typical older worker - age 65 and up - earned $22 per hour, up from $13 in 1987, Pew reports.

The Seniors Job Bank (SJB), a Hartford-region nonprofit organization, is seeking to tap into that broad workforce to help power the labor connection between older workers and employers who need to fill jobs.

“We help businesses, municipalities, nonprofits, homeowners, and individuals by connecting them with an incredible and diverse workforce in our region,” says Robin Clare, Executive Director of the Seniors Job Bank.

Created in 1974 to address job losses resulting from a recession, the organization is seeing an uptick in the number of mature jobseekers, many of them workplace professionals who

have retired from career jobs but who want to remain active, both mentally and physically.

“I’m continually amazed by the talents of the people who are coming to us,” Robin says. “They have extensive, incredible, robust and diverse skill sets.”

While the Job Bank traditionally has connected workers with skills in the trades for jobs sought by homeowners - gardening, maintenance, home health aides, and general handyman work - the nonprofit is broadening that client-base to include more businesses, nonprofit agencies, and municipalities which seek white-collar candidates.

Older workers today are attractive to employers, the Pew report says, because in general they tend to have at least a four-year college degree and often already have health insurance and/or pensions, either from the government or their previous employer.

“We call them mature workers because to qualify as a jobseeker you must be 50 years old. These are people who worked for years and who know the importance of showing up on time, have a great deal of knowledge and a solid work ethic,” says Lester Primus, President of the Seniors Job Bank.

Currently, the Seniors Job Bank has 810 job applicants and is on target to have 600 job requests from employers seeking help. The SJB is seeking more jobs in its database to accommodate the ever-increasing number of jobseekers.

“We are excited to work with the Seniors Job Bank. This partnership allows us to create a future where every individual, regardless of age, is valued for their skills and expertise,” says Larry Santilli, President & C.E.O. of Athena Health Care Systems.

The Seniors Job Bank connects applicants with employers, it does not manage the relationship between them or negotiate pay. It is not an employment agency. The service is free for both workers and employers and the SJB relies solely on donations and grants for operational expenses.

According to AARP, by 2030, the number of seniors over 65 will reach 73 million Americans. By 2034, the United States will – for the first time ever – be a country comprised of more older adults than of children.

A new initiative in 2024 will be for the organization to help older people find volunteer jobs, an important outlet for many people seeking to keep busy in their retirement years. “Many mature workers are looking for both paid and unpaid opportunities,” Robin Clare adds.

The Seniors Job Bank alleviates concerns among mature workers who fear age-based discrimination in job searches. By intentionally posting job opportunities with SJB, employers signal their commitment to welcoming mature workers, effectively eliminating ageism from the equation.

Online: seniorsjobbankct.org

Phone: 860-521-3210

Email: Info@seniorsjobbankct.org

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From Adversity to Achievement

ARTICLE BY BRIAN BOYER | PHOTOGRAPHY BY SESHU BADRINATH - CONNECTICUT

The Inspiring Journey of Victor Gonzalez and Antonio Alves

HEADSHOTS

Born into a single-parent family of four siblings, Victor Gonzalez and Antonio Alves experienced the hardships of poverty first hand.

Victor, Branch Manager at NBT Bank in West Hartford, and his brother Antonio, a seasoned professional in local financial services, stand as living testaments to the power of hard work and perseverance. Their journey from humble beginnings in Waterbury, to thriving careers is a tale that inspires hope and underscores the importance of unwavering resolve.

Their mother, a beacon of strength, worked tirelessly at multiple jobs, often commuting by bus to make ends meet. Despite the challenges they faced, family values and a strong work ethic were instilled in them from an early age. “We learned the value of hard work and perseverance, but it wasn’t easy,” reflects Victor.

Their path to success was marked by obstacles and uncertainty. Both were diagnosed with dyslexia and navigated through special education

classes and the stigma associated with learning differences. They refused to let adversity define them.

“I learned to become my own advocate,” Victor says, highlighting the importance of self-determination in overcoming challenges.

Education became their ticket to a better future. Both Victor and Antonio graduated from  Waterbury public schools, laying the foundation for their academic pursuits. Victor earned his degree from Southern Connecticut State University, where he faced financial hardships that led him to sleep in his Dodge Caravan for two semesters.

“Those experiences taught me resilience and perseverance,” Victor recalls, reflecting on the trials that ultimately shaped his character.

Undeterred by setbacks, Antonio also carved his own path in the financial sector, driven by a shared ambition to defy the odds stacked against them.

“We decided we wanted to be successful in life despite the obstacles,” Antonio asserts, emphasizing their unwavering determination to succeed.

Today, as accomplished professionals in West Hartford, Victor and Antonio exemplify leadership rooted in empathy and integrity. Victor’s leadership style emphasizes meeting people where they are, fostering an environment of trust and collaboration. “Be open, honest and transparent,” he advises, embodying the values instilled in him by his upbringing. “People will respect this approach.”

Similarly, Antonio leads by example, approaching challenges with a pragmatic mindset and a focus on results. “I don’t take things personally; it’s just business,” he remarks, reflecting on his approach to leadership.

Through adversity, Victor and Antonio inspire  others to defy expectations and pursue their dreams against all odds.

Antonio, left, and Victor with their mother,

In 25 years, BTC has produced over one hundred incredible live-action ballets; provided hundreds of jobs to dance, costume, backstage, and lighting professionals; trained thousands of aspiring dancers; and continues to enrich the community through several unique programs, making dance accessible to over 11,500 children in Greater Hartford and beyond.

Sessions run weekly: July 8 – August 2, 2024, 8:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.

FOUNDATIONAL SKILLS & REVIEW

Classes focus on Reading, Mathematics, Keyboarding, Written Expression, Writing Mechanics, and Study Skills. All students receive a progress report and recommendations for the school year.

GAMEDAY MEN'S HEALTH West Hartford

THE NEW CLINIC WILL TEST AND TREAT FOR LOW TESTOSTERONE

ARTICLE BY EILEEN M. MCNAMARA

Created in 2018 and committed to helping men live their best lives through a novel and medically-supervised treatment program, Gameday Men’s Health is opening a new clinic soon in West Hartford.

Gameday was created to help men suffering from low testosterone (Low T) and erectile dysfunction (ED), and provides medical weight loss solutions and vitamin therapy. Its primary focus is to help men maximize their health, in a comfortable environment with knowledgeable medical staff to create customized health game plans to get them back to their passion and purpose.

Statistics show that 1 in 4 men will suffer from Low T by age 40, and the condition can often go undetected. In addition to normal, age-related testosterone decline, testosterone deficiency is a medical condition and men as young as 30 can suffer from it.

“Low testosterone levels can be caused by a wide range of factors, such as aging, certain medical conditions, medications, and excessive alcohol consumption, to name a few,” says Dr. Jean Carlos Jimenez, MD, Gameday Men’s Health West Hartford medical director.

“Additionally, lifestyle factors like a poor diet, lack of exercise, and chronic stress can also lead to lower testosterone levels.”

“Low T is one of those conditions that can affect so many men and include a spectrum of symptoms that men with Low T might not recognize,” says Eric Leserman. He and his wife, Jenni Leserman, are the franchise administrators of the new Gameday Men’s Health clinic at 18 North Main St.

“Low T is one of those conditions that can affect so many men.”

Low T symptoms can affect sexual health and cause erectile dysfunction, reduced muscle mass and strength, increase body fat, fatigue, and affect changes in mood, such as depression and irritability.

“We can also see decreased bone density, and potentially even cognitive changes like decreased concentration and memory in some patients,.” Dr. Jimenez says.

“So many men might think ‘I remember how I used to feel and I just don’t feel that way anymore,’ but with the appropriate treatment they can. That’s why we wanted to bring Gameday to the greater Hartford community. We want to help men live the types of lives they want to live and get back to the top of their game.”

Gameday Men’s Health offers free testosterone testing and with an in-house lab, it’s quick and easy to find out your T levels, Eric says.

“Gone are the days of sitting in a cold clinic or doctors office and waiting three days to get results - At Gameday, you’ll receive your results in 15 minutes and work with the onsite team to discuss treatment options.”

The treatment, he adds, “depends on the underlying cause and individual health factors.”

Gameday Men’s Health is set in a “man cave” style environment – with flat-screen TVs tuned into ESPN, leather chairs, and an overall

sports-related motif”, Eric adds. The clinic includes medical treatment and exam rooms, as well as a fully-equipped, on-site lab for Low T testing and other male-specific medical tests.

“We will be offering a full range of medical grade services for men’s health, including Testosterone Replacement Therapy, or TRT, Human Growth Hormone, or HGH therapy and Hormone Pellet Therapy, which is an implantable form of hormone replacement,” Eric says.

Services and treatments will be led by an expert medical team including nurse practitioners, medical support staff and reception staff.

Many men can see improvements in their energy levels, sexual health, and overall mood within a month of beginning the weekly treatments, Eric says.

“Gameday Men’s Health is here to energize men of all life stages with efficient, personalized health services that help them to live confidently.”

Gameday Men’s Health

18 N. Main Street, Suite 204

Online: Gamedaymenshealth.com/west-hartford

Phone: 959-236-8977

Text: 959-335-6366

The Power of Kindness

ARTICLE BY LUCINDA JAMISON | PHOTOGRAPHY BY ALLIE BELLUCCI

NAVIGATING LIFE’S JOURNEY WITH CHIP JANISZEWSKI

Chip Janiszewski, a seasoned businessman and motivational speaker, has a story to tell—one of resilience, personal growth, and a commitment to spreading positivity and kindess, from his roots in a family business to his transformation as a motivational speaker.

As Chip reflects on his path, it’s evident that his experiences have shaped his outlook on life. Born in Wisconsin where his grandfather, a Polish immigrant, founded what would become a very successful manufacturing business in 1923. Chip’s father moved the family to West Hartford in 1963 to open an Eastern Division. Chip joined the business after earning his accounting degree in 1976 and purchased it from his father in 1968.

With the advancement of computer technology, Chip helped guide the company in automating existing manual manufacturing and financial systems. The company was sold in 1995 and Chip

Chip Janiszewski

found himself at a crossroads six months later when he had an epiphany driving to work one morning and thought: “‘Chip, go home.’ Driving home, I felt the weight of the world lifting off my shoulders. I was 41 years old and said ‘I don’t want to work for anybody or want anybody working for me.’” It was during this transition that he discovered his passion for personal development.

Inspired by his experiences and a desire to help others, he embarked on a new chapter focused on spreading positivity and kindness.

Following his departure from the corporate world, Chip delved into various ventures, including business networking and consulting. His involvement with Business Network International (BNI) and SendOutCards introduced him to networking principles and the importance of personal development. Through these endeavors, Chip realized his gift for teaching and inspiring others. He brought this talent to his years of service on the West Hartford Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors, where he is currently completing his two-year term as Chairperson.

He had a pivotal “Aha!” moment when, “One morning, I was at a Chamber networking meeting, and found myself saying, ‘Good morning, I’m Chip Janiszewski, the Happiness and Success GPS. You can’t be ‘successful’ in this world unless you’re happy first. There are a lot of ‘wealthy’ people who are miserable because their primary focus is material.”

Chip has since prefaced his presentations with “Living Life with the 4 Ps: Purpose, Passion, Positivity and a Plan is the Formula for Happiness and Success and turning your Obstacles into Opportunities.”

“Life is simply a series of present-moment events. How you respond to them (positive or negative) determines the outcome.”

The title of his new presentation/program for 2024 is “The Kindness Platform.” Its message is simple yet profound: kindness is contagious – kindness is a choice. By choosing to respond to life events from a perspective of kindness and compassion, anyone can change the world, one interaction at a time.

He creates effective business solutions, customized presentations, and training for his clients and audiences by combining mentoring and motivational skills with his business experience and personal development expertise. His mission is to spread awareness of the power of kindness and inspire others to embrace a positive mindset. By sharing his story and offering actionable strategies for personal growth, Chip’s message of kindness and positivity has resonated with many. And now, he wants to bring his program to even more communities.

“My customized presentations plant seeds of positivity for networking groups, non-profit and service organizations, students, faith ministries, workplaces, and more—let’s set up a consultation!”

Kindness Platform

Online: chipj.com

Phone: 860-673-4006

Email: chip@chipj.com

Chip Janiszewski

Chip Janiszewski at a recent AM Connections business meeting.

Photo by: Armen Manukyan

Fahy Ostop

HARRY BELLUCCI HAS SPENT HIS LIFE SUPPORTING HARTFORD-REGION KIDS

Inspired By

ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY ALLIE BELLUCCI

Harry Bellucci

Harry Bellucci

“

I want to do this because it helped me so much. I felt like I could help other kids in my same situation.

Over the past four decades, Harry Bellucci has become a familiar name in Hartford’s local sports coverage, often mentioned in headlines about his football team at Hartford Public High School, or the many achievements of the athletes he’s coached.

As his daughter, I saw the untold story of my dad’s other achievement: how he rose from humble beginnings to become a local change-maker for Hartfordregion youth.

The driving forces behind his journey were the Hartford Parks and Recreation Department, his friends and family, and his great coaches and teachers.

When he was 11 his father, a single parent with five young kids, moved them from Flatbush Avenue closer to their grandmother in Hartford’s South End, where he gained access to organized sports, ultimately changing the direction of his life.

“There were a bunch of three family houses, and a million kids. So I immediately went outside and saw some guys playing street football and sat there and watched and before long, I was invited to join in the street football game. I still do things with all those guys that I met on Barker Street that day.”

Soon, my dad had his first opportunity to make a change. He and a friend founded the first swim team at Colt Park in Hartford at age 17. Later, he navigated his journey largely independently, working multiple jobs to finance his education at Central Connecticut State University. Today he acknowledges the invaluable support of his friends and their families who helped him.

“It makes me appreciate where I am now.”

Understanding the struggles faced by many in his community drove his commitment to supporting Hartford’s kids.

His first job in the Hartford school system began shortly after graduating from Central with a degree in K-12 Physical Education at the age of 23. While there, he had a chance encounter with his high school football head coach from Bulkeley High School, Peter Kokinis, during a game of touch football behind the school. Kokinis, recognizing his potential, offered him an assistant coaching position for the freshmen team. This opportunity, though predating his formal teaching role by a few years, marked the beginning of his coaching journey in Hartford.

“When I was deciding what I wanted to do, I knew that I wanted to do this. I want to do this because it helped me so much,” he said. “I felt like I could help other kids in my same situation.”

Throughout his career, he primarily coached varsity football and swimming at Hartford Public, in addition to his roles as a pool director and physical education teacher.

After retiring, he hopped right back into dedicating his time to youth and sports, becoming the executive director of the Hartford Police Athletic League (PAL). The program gives disadvantaged youth access to athletic programs.

PAL offers free opportunities for economically disadvantaged youth, providing a range of activities including sports, education, STEM programs, culinary classes, tutoring, and mentoring in an effort to accommodate every child’s interest.

Looking ahead, Bellucci’s goal is to expand PAL’s offerings.

“Our mission is to give Hartford kids the same opportunities as their suburban counterparts, breaking down barriers.”

To learn monroe about PAL or to donate visit Hartfordpal.org.

Dr.ThomasA. McDonald,MD

realty report

LOCAL EVENTS

JUNE 1ST

Toni Stone at Playhouse on Park

Playhouse on Park, 244 Park Road | 8:00 PM

An original play inspired by the book Curveball, The Remarkable Story of Toni Stone by Martha Ackmann. this sensational theatrical event knocks it out of the park with a high intensity glimpse into the world of the first woman to go pro in baseball’s Negro Leagues. Runs through June 16. Visit Playhouseonpark.org for tickets and times.

JUNE 3RD

Watkinson Hosts Campus Tours

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

Watkinson is currently accepting applications for the 2024-25 school year and is hosting private campus tours for prospective parents and students. "We invite you to learn more about the admissions process and tour our beautiful 40-acre campus with our admissions team."  Call 860-236-5618 to schedule a visit. Visit Watkinson.org for more information.

JUNE 8TH

Celebrate! West Hartford

West Hartford Town Hall, 50 South Main St. | 10:00 AM

This year's Celebrate! West Hartford, (CWH) runs Saturday, June 8 through Sunday, June 9. The family-oriented, two-day community festival is held on the grounds of Town Hall. Since 1987 CWH has been fostering community spirit through the arts, amusements, entertainment, food, road races, and showcasing local businesses and non-profits. For information visit Westhartfordct.gov and search Celebrate West Hartford.

JUNE 8TH

Charity Bike Ride

Dudleytown Brewing Co., 1001 Day Hill Road, Windsor | 8:00 AM

Support Info-Go Initiative, which assists people with ongoing medical conditions, is sponsoring a Charity Bike Ride featuring routes from 25-100 miles long. There will also be a 4.5 guided handicap route. Registration is $40 with a suggested fundraising goal of $250 per person.  Rain date is June 9. Lunch, one free beer and T-shirts included for all participants. Visit Supportinfogoinitiative.org.

JUNE 17TH

Travelers Championship

TPC River Highlands, 1 Golf Club Road, Cromwell | 9:00 AM

The Travelers Championship returns to the TPC River Highlands from June 17-23. Featuring the best players on the PGA Tour who will be competing for $20 million, the tournament is a premier event in Connecticut. Sponsored by Travelers Insurance Co. it draws top golfers and has raised $28 million for local charities in the last 7 years alone. Visit Travelerschampionship.com.

JUNE 29TH

Aerial Yoga Teacher Training

Connecticut Aerial Yoga, 224 Farmington Ave., Hartford | 9:00 AM

Interested in learning how to teach the unique practice of Aerial Yoga? Connecticut Aerial Yoga is hosting a teacher-training session with Michelle Dortignac, who pioneered aerial yoga and created the Unnata Aerial Yoga method. This Level 1 training program will be in CAY’s spacious studio, June 29 - July 21, and will combine in-person and livestream sessions. Visit ctaerialyoga.com