The Women’s Issue
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May 17-18, 2025
10am - 6pm
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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.)
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May
May is our Women’s Issue. In recognition of Mother's Day we try to explore issues and ideas of interest to women, or focus on women of interest or who inspire us.
For instance, we have a profile this month of West Hartford Mayor Shari Cantor. Even if she weren't officially the town's mayor Shari's the kind of person who is so enmeshed in all things local that she might jokingly be referred to as the mayor. She grew up in West Hartford and she and her husband raised all four of their sons here. An empathetic leader, she's undertaken a myriad of volunteer efforts locally and statewide, all while overcoming personal difficulties.
We have stories this month on two inspirational medical professionals, Dr. Ukti Goel of West Hartford and Wethersfield Dental Groups and Dr. Jennifer Raska, of Central Eye Care in West Hartford. Dr. Goel is a mom who runs two dental offices while also competing in national and state beauty contests. Dr. Raska is an optometrist who knew from a young age that she wanted to become an eye specialist.
In our Healthy Lifestyle segment this month we spoke with several health and fitness experts from around the region — Dr. Melissa Morales of Positive Change Weight Loss, Peter Inserillo of Relentless Performance physical therapy, Christian Silva of GymGuys personal fitness and Julian Grant of FemCare MedSpa — about the health issues that specifically impact women,
We also have a story about the historic Town & County Club of Hartford, an organization for and catering to women that is celebrating its 100th Anniversary this year. In addition, we have a salad recipe in this issue as well as a how-to article on using citrus fruits in flower arranging.
We hope you enjoy this month's issue of West Hartford Lifestyle Magazine and that you have a Happy Mother's Day!
GARY PERRELLI, PUBLISHER
May 2025
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, Brian Boyer
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Kaitlyn Casso, Connecticut Headshots, John Helmke, Brian Ambrose, Gwen O'Donnel
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
CTO Ajay Krishnan
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders
AD DESIGNER Rachel Chrisman
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QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Hannah Leimkuhler
Meet Our Pain Management Specialists
Michael J. Grille, MD
Pain Management Anesthesiologist
Dr. Michael Grille has established himself as one of the top Interventional Pain Management Specialists in the Northeast. With Fellowship training at the prestigious Cleveland Clinic, he brings a wealth of clinical expertise in order to develop the best and most comprehensive pain management plan to address any chronic pain condition.
Michael J. Robbins, DO
Pain Management Anesthesiologist
Dr. Michael Robbins was recognized as one of the “Best Pain Management Physicians in New Haven”, and he has brought his clinical excellence and experience to the local community. Dr. Robbins is a board-certified anesthesiologist and pain medicine specialist. He has extensive knowledge in spinal mechanics, and he provides treatment for a wide range of pain issues.
Bright J. Selvaraj, MD
Pain Management Anesthesiologist
Dr. Bright Jebaraj Selvaraj brings national pain management experience to the forefront of the IAA Pain Center. Having completed his Residency at New York Presbyterian Hospital and his Pain Management Fellowship with Oregon Health, Dr. Selvaraj has been a welcome addition to our growing Pain Management Team.
Pain Conditions We Treat
• Neck , mid-back and low back pain
• Joint pain and pain after joint replacement
• Chronic post-surgical pain
• Headache, head, and facial pain
• Cervical dystonia
• Sciatica and nerve pain
• Chronic abdominal and pelvic pain
• Cancer-related pain
• Chest wall pain and thoracic outlet syndrome
• Complex regional pain syndrome
• and more!
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1-7: The Bridge Family Center's 2025 Children's Charity Ball at Farmington Gardens Raised Over a Quarter of a Million Dollars
Photography by Iris Photography
business monthly
West Hartford and Hartford Grandeur: A Historic Homes Tour
Join this walking tour of the grand homes along Prospect Avenue, a street of large homes built by the well-to-do in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Prospect Avenue remains graced with these historic homes, reflecting the prosperity of Hartford’s Gilded Age. Visit Histoury.org for information, dates and tickets.
Ben Bronz Academy Celebrates 40th Anniversary
Ben Bronz Academy (BBA) is celebrating its 40th anniversary helping students with learning challenges. BBA was founded in West Hartford in 1985, but draws students from across Connecticut and Massachusetts. BBA helps students succeed and gain confidence. Aileen and Ian Spence founded BBA to unlock students’ potential. Today, Dr. Gail Lanza, BBA’s CEO, carries on their vision. “We are continuing their legacy of a thriving, innovative school where students see results.” Visit Benbronzacademy.org for information.
Now Open: Fyzical Therapy & Balance Center
Fyzical Therapy & Balance Centers - West Hartford opens May 1st at 61 South Main St. Our compassionate, highly skilled team is focused on helping you achieve your optimal health and wellness. We are advocates of patient choice and direct access, offering a hands-on, personalized approach to comprehensive patient care. Our therapists have extensive knowledge and experience in: neurological rehabilitation, balance therapy, orthopedics, and pelvic health. Visit fyzical.com/west-hartford-ct.
The RiverLane Announces New Fashion Line
The RiverLane, a women's fashion and accessories boutique with locations in Mystic and Essex, is unveiling a new fashion line for this spring. Effortless, elevated, and designed for those days when you want to look pulled together without the effort, Allison NY features tailored shorts, cropped blazers, and flowy linen sets—perfect for the modern woman who values both style and comfort. Visit RiverLane.com for more information.
WOMEN’S HEALTH
OUR EXPERTS PROVIDE ADVICE ON THE UNIQUE HEALTH ISSUES WOMEN FACE
Women’s health is a critical aspect of overall well-being, yet it is often neglected due to the multitude of responsibilities women carry. We’ve gathered insights from four health experts to provide actionable advice for women of all ages.
Dr. Peter Inserillo, of Relentless Performance, training with a client
Photography by: Gwen O’Donnell
DR. PETER INSERILLO, RELENTLESS PERFORMANCE: THE IMPORTANCE OF RESISTANCE TRAINING
As we go through life, our bodies undergo both physical and mental changes that can impact health. Hormonal shifts can further accentuate these changes. While aging is a natural process, there are steps we can take to mitigate its effects. This is why regular resistance training is crucial for women. Resistance training involves exercises where muscles contract against an external force, such as weights, resistance bands, or body weight. It helps maintain muscle mass, which naturally declines with age, and improves overall body composition. Additionally, it stimulates bone formation, reducing the risk of osteoporosis.
Key Benefits of Resistance Training:
• Enhances Bone Health
• Builds Muscle Strength
• Boosts Metabolism
• Enhances Mental Well-being
• Promotes Cardiovascular Health
Whether you’re starting out or continuing your fitness journey, regular resistance training can make a positive impact on your overall well-being.
JULIAN GRANT, OWNER, FEMCARE MEDSPA: RECLAIMING INTIMATE WELLNESS
Women often accept changes in their bodies as inevitable, particularly as they age or experience childbirth. However, many of these changes are treatable. At FemCare MedSpa we provide solutions for women dealing with issues like incontinence, sexual wellness, and loss of tissue strength.
“Women’s health is a critical aspect of overall well-being.”
Through innovative treatments like radiofrequency and electrical muscle stimulation, women can rebuild tissue strength and restore sexual wellness.
“The most heartbreaking thing I hear is when a woman says she’s stopped being intimate because of issues with sexual wellness,” says a FemCare Nurse Practitioner at FemCare. “Then the most beautiful thing happens when she returns after treatment, looking younger somehow—not from our Botox or PDO threads—but from rediscovering a fundamental confidence.”
CONTINUED >
Dr. Melissa Morales, owner of Positive Change Weight Loss Photography by: Kaitlyn Casso
Julian Grant, owner of FemCare MedSpa Photography by: Connecticut Headshots
FemCare MedSpa specializes in intimate rejuvenation treatments, skin tightening, medical weight loss, and other wellness services. Women are reclaiming parts of their lives they thought were lost forever. Addressing sexual wellness isn’t vanity; it’s reclaiming your right to feel at home in your body. Recognizing that sexual wellness and physical health are intertwined is essential for a well-rounded wellness approach.
DR. MELISSA MORALES, POSITIVE CHANGE WEIGHT LOSS, FUELING MUSCLE FOR WEIGHT LOSS
As women age, muscle loss becomes a significant concern due to declining estrogen levels during perimenopause and menopause. Maintaining muscle mass is crucial for effective metabolism and overall health.
Increasing protein intake and incorporating strength training are essential steps in preserving muscle mass. Protein-rich foods like garbanzo beans, which are high in protein and fiber, can be easily added to daily meals.
Key Nutrition Tips:
• Eat a balanced diet with protein, carbohydrates, and fats.
• Focus on nutrient-dense foods like fruits and vegetables.
• Practice mindful eating by being present during meals to avoid overeating.
• Prioritize Protein Intake: Ensure sufficient daily protein consumption to support muscle growth and repair.
• Stay Hydrated: Drinking enough water is essential for overall health and metabolism.
Eating nutritiously rather than just eating less is key. Incorporating healthy snacks that combine protein, fats, and carbohydrates can increase satiety and boost energy levels. Healthy nutrition is a cornerstone of fitness and overall well-being.
CHRISTIAN SILVA, GYMGUYZ: OVERCOMING FITNESS STRUGGLES
Women face unique struggles when it comes to maintaining fitness routines, especially when balancing work, family, and personal well-being.
The three main challenges are consistency, weight training, and protein intake. Many women avoid weight training due to misconceptions about bulking up or simply due to lack of awareness. However, weight training improves bone health, metabolism, posture, and overall strength.
Additionally, protein intake is often inadequate, especially when women focus on fad diets rather than balanced nutrition. Protein supports muscle growth, boosts metabolism, and helps maintain energy levels throughout the day.
Creating a fitness routine that prioritizes weight training and proper nutrition is essential. Scheduling workouts, hiring a personal trainer, or exercising early in the morning can make a significant difference. Embracing a consistent fitness routine contributes significantly to overall well-being.
Christian Silva, of Gymguyz, works out with a client
Photography by: Brian Ambrose
A Commitment to Community
Mayor Shari Cantor Has Navigated Personal Struggles and Professional Successes While Raising Her Family
Born and raised in West Hartford, Mayor Shari Cantor’s journey into public service was deeply influenced by both personal challenges and her deep passion for community building.
After graduating magna cum laude from the University of Connecticut in 1981 with a degree in accounting, she worked at Cigna while pursuing her Master’s Degree in social work.
Like many women of her generation Shari’s life took a predictable and steady course early on. While working on her career she married Michael Cantor and the couple bought a home here and had three sons. But their life took a dramatic turn when their fourth son, Jacob, was born with complex congenital heart defects. Before his second birthday Jacob underwent three open-heart surgeries, requiring specialized procedures in Boston to repair his heart.
It was a time that is seared into her memory, Shari says. She recalls how three other babies in the same ICU with similar heart problems died while Jacob was being treated in Boston. Jacob was born at Hartford Hospital, which has a close relationship with Connecticut Children’s Medical Center. That partnership, Shari says, is what gave him a better shot at survival because of early intervention and high-quality infant medical care nearby.
The experience, she says, “was paradigm shifting. I realized we were very, very lucky to have access to immediate and high level medical care for Jacob. I saw other families in the
ARTICLE BY EILEEN M. MCNAMARA PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOHN HELMKE
same situation who weren’t as lucky and I saw the real impact of not having a better level of medical care nearby.”
It instilled in her a deep passion to help others. With her husband often traveling, Shari left the paid workforce after Jacob’s birth to care for him and his brothers. As his health stabilized around second grade, she agreed to fill a vacancy on West Hartford’s Town Council at the urging of a local politician.
“The deputy mayor stopped me and said ‘You’d be really good on the council would you be interested in serving?” She took on the job and despite some initial trepidations she ran for council in the following general election.
“I was in my mid-40s and I never had a vision for running for office or running for anything.”
Although she came in last out of six candidates in that first political contest, the experience sparked her interest in public service. She began actively engaging with the community, listening to
Shari and Michael Cantor's four sons.
concerns, and learning from others, she says.
“I started to get out into the community and talk to people. I started to reach out to a variety of people and got a lot of really good feedback on their concerns and the types of issues that were directly affecting them.”
Strengthened by her experiences with her youngest son, community-building and helping others became a passion, she says. She went from a political neophyte to a well-known local leader and a highly visible and compassionate community booster.
One of her first initiatives was establishing the town’s Poet Laureate program. It remains a point of significant pride for her.
“I do feel the arts and outreach in the arts can connect people and anything that brings people
together helps build community. And that’s where my passion is, building community.”
She also served on the board of the Central Connecticut Heart Association, advocating for better heart health resources. Under her leadership, West Hartford earned the designation of a “Heart Safe Community,” equipping public buildings with defibrillators and promoting heart-saving knowledge throughout the town.
Cantor’s dedication to public health and community engagement extended beyond her own experiences. She pioneered initiatives like the pink trash cans fundraiser to support breast cancer research, a creative project that gained widespread community support.
Her efforts to rebuild and strengthen the Senior Citizen Advisory Committee led to a flourishing group that effectively addresses the needs of older residents. She also played a pivotal role in revitalizing the Senior Job Bank during the economic downturn of 2008, ensuring it remained a valuable resource that pairs senior citizens seeking jobs with companies in need of workers.
Shari and Michael Cantor at home with their family.
Shari has been committed to meeting the challenges of housing shortages and rising costs by working with investors to add high quality multifamily residential development throughout town at a wide range of price points from affordable to luxury including rental and ownership.
Her professional accomplishments are matched by her extensive civic engagement. She serves as Chair of CT Children’s Foundation Board and as a UConn Trustee. She is a board member of Hartford Stage and an advisory board member of Playhouse on Park. She and Michael, founder of Cantor Colburn LLP, a leading national law firm specializing in intellectual property law, have supported educational initiatives and have contributed significantly to the cultural and artistic landscape of the region.
Throughout her life she has adroitly balanced her professional and personal lives.
She and Michael raised all four of their sons, Joshua, Sam, Ben, and Jacob, in West Hartford. All are now grown, some with families of their own, and thriving. The couple has two granddaughters.
Despite her demanding schedule, Shari’s commitment to her family and her community remains unwavering. From her personal struggles she has hit heights of professional triumphs and remains driven by a deep desire to help others.
“It takes empathy, it takes a lot of listening and a lot of energy to do this job, but I’m committed to my community and I love my community.”
Shari taking part in a meeting in West Hartford Town Hall recently.
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SEEING THE FUTURE CLEARLY
Dr. Jennifer Raska and Central Eye Care's Commitment to Family-Focused Vision Care
ARTICLE BY BRIAN BOYER PHOTOGRAPHY BY KAITLYN CASSO
For Dr. Jennifer Raska, opening her own practice was more than just a professional goal — it was a personal mission inspired by her family.
After a decade of caring for patients in West Hartford, she realized there was a need for a family-centered eye care provider.
“I saw a need within our community for an eye care provider that caters to the entire family.”
This inspired her to establish Central Eye Care, a practice dedicated to serving patients of all ages with compassion, innovation and expertise.
“For as long as I can remember, I aspired to open my own practice,” says Dr. Raska. “Both professionally and personally, I saw a need within our community for an eye care provider that caters to the entire family.”
Dr. Raska’s inspiration to become an optometrist traces back to her childhood, when her sister – who had a disability - received her first pair of glasses.
“I saw firsthand how life-changing something as simple as a pair of glasses could be,” she reflects.
At Central Eye Care, she strives to provide a seamless experience for families.
“As a mother, I value a provider’s office that is willing to see my children and my parents, all under one roof and close to home,” she explains.
Dr. Raska partnered with Emily Evans, who played a pivotal role in curating the optical collections at Central Eye Care. The practice offers a hand-selected assortment of frames that combine quality, affordability and style. Many collections come with a 2–3-year warranty, ensuring patients can trust their investment for years to come.
Central Eye Care prides itself on investing in stateof-the-art technology to improve patient outcomes. Retinal imaging devices, for example, provide highly detailed images that allow Dr. Raska to monitor structural changes in the eye down to the micron. This precision enables earlier detection and treatment of potentially serious conditions.
“Technology enhances my ability to provide the best care possible,” she emphasizes. “With advanced imaging, we no longer have to wait for profound visual loss before addressing visually threatening conditions.”
Opposite: Dr. Raska, right, with Emily Evans. Below, patients in Dr. Raska’s offices try on eyewear.
Dr. Raska’s expertise extends beyond routine eye exams. Her specialized training in pediatric and non-verbal care ensures she can meet the unique needs of patients like her sister. Additionally, she has a passion for fitting complex contact lenses, helping those who have struggled with limited vision in the past.
“Fitting challenging contact lenses can be incredibly rewarding,” says Dr. Raska. “Improving a patient’s vision quickly with non-invasive techniques can significantly enhance their quality of life.”
Her dedication to this specialty has led to her recent appointment as a Clinical Instructor at her alma mater, The New England College of Optometry, where she teaches the specialty contact lens course.
Dr. Raska is a strong advocate for proactive eye care. She encourages families to prioritize regular comprehensive eye exams, particularly for children.
“Seventy percent of learning comes from vision,” she explains. “A complete eye exam before a child starts kindergarten is a great place to start.”
She emphasizes that routine eye exams can uncover conditions like amblyopia that may not be apparent through standard vision screenings. By detecting these issues early, treatment outcomes improve dramatically.
Central Eye Care’s dedication extends beyond the walls of the practice. Dr. Raska and her team are committed to community outreach, with a particular focus on pediatric vision care.
“We intend to get involved in vision screenings throughout our community,” she shares. “We want to ensure that children receive the care they need before vision issues impact their development.”
Central Eye Care
28 North Main St., Suite 102
Phone: 860-206-3060
Online: centraleyecare2020.com
Email: centraleyecare2020@gmail.com
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STAMFORD
TOWN & COUNTY CLUB Celebrates 100 Years
Located in Hartford’s distinctive West End, the Town & County Club is more than just a gracious historic mansion; it’s a sanctuary where women gather, connect, and empower each other. As the Club celebrates its centennial this year, it remains a vibrant community that honors its past while boldly embracing the future.
CONTINUED >
A Century of Connection and Women Empowering Women
ARTICLE BY LUCINDA JAMISON
This private, member-run women’s club has offered connection, enrichment, and empowerment since 1925. It was founded by some of Hartford’s most trailblazing advocates for women‘s rights and began as a haven for women to gather outside the confines of their homes to exchange ideas freely and take action in the community.
“These women were visionaries,” said Club President Donna Finocchiaro. “They wanted a place to meet, to do good works, and to support each other, so they created it! We are proud to carry that spirit forward one hundred years later.”
The Club’s centennial celebrations reflect its dynamic spirit. Members recently marched in Hartford’s parade, echoing the suffragists who founded the Club. Other upcoming events include a Centennial Founders’ Day Silver Tea, a formal Centennial Gala, and an art exhibit showcasing student artwork.
“We wanted our centennial to honor our past and inspire the future,” Donna said. “It’s a celebration of who we are and who we continue to become.”
One of the Club’s most cherished programs is its non-traditional scholarship fund for women 25 or older attending college for the first time.
“This scholarship speaks to our deep understanding of women’s lives,” shared Ellin Smith, Club and Centennial Committee Member. “We’ve awarded over $350,000 to 142 women, and it’s not just the money that matters; it’s the confidence and encouragement these women gain from knowing we believe in them. For us, it’s a real source of pride.”
Through partnerships with local organizations such as Hands on Hartford and Loaves and Fishes, members volunteer their time and talents to support those in need.
“This is a place where passion projects become real,” Donna said. “One idea shared over coffee can grow into something beautiful that truly helps our community.”
The organization also oversees the Lyman Heritage Preservation Foundation, named in honor of the Lyman family who built the Woodland Street house in 1895. The foundation seeks to restore and preserve the house and grounds in its historic neighborhood, and to educate the community on the historic significance of the first private women’s city club in Connecticut to own a clubhouse.
Today, the Club’s mission, “to create an organized center for women’s work, thought, and action,” is reflected in every event, discussion, and community initiative. Its nearly 200 members, from young professionals to retirees, find inspiration in each other’s life experiences.
“We’ve awarded over $350,000 to 142 women, and it’s not just the money that matters; it’s the confidence and encouragement these women gain from knowing we believe in them. For us, it’s a real source of pride.”
For Ellin, the Club is also about finding joy in life’s simple pleasures. “Some of my favorite moments are the informal conversations we share in the library,” she said. “It’s a cozy space, but more importantly, it’s a place where friends gather to lift each other up.”
That sense of camaraderie is the heart of the club. From monthly book groups to lively salons, every activity is designed by and for women.
The Club offers a retreat from the demands of everyday life.
“It’s a welcoming place where you can forge genuine friendships, enjoy enriching cultural activities, and find true confidants,” said club member Trina Williams
Town & County Club 22 Woodland St., Hartford, Phone: 860-522-1100 Online: Towncounty.com
A SALAD REC IPE TO LOV E
A GORGEOUS, FRESH AND SIMPLE DISH
PEAR, PROSCIUTTO,
Burrata Salad
INGREDIENTS
• Ripe Pear
• Prosciutto
• Burrata
• Lemon Zest
• Extra Virgin Olive Oil
• Dried Figs
• Red Pepper Flakes
DIRECTIONS
1. Slice the ripe pear into thin slices.
2. Arrange pear slices on a plate, creating a base for the salad.
3. Nestle slices of prosciutto in-between pear slices, a perfect combo of sweet and savory.
4. Tear the burrata into bite-sized pieces and scatter them over the salad adding a velvety creaminess to the ensemble.
5. Grate fresh lemon zest over the entire salad, infusing it with citrus flavor.
6. Top with fresh basil, figs and pepper flakes.
7. Finish by generously drizzling extra virgin olive oil over the salad, creating a silky texture that ties it all together.
WEST HARTFORD Dental Group
COMPREHENSIVE, MULTI-SPECIALTY AND PATIENT-FOCUSED CARE
ARTICLE BY EILEEN M. MCNAMARA | PHOTOGRAPHY BY VINCENT WRENN
Opposite: Dr. Goel with staffers at Wethersfield Dental Group.
Below: Dr. Goel is the reigning Miss Universe USA in the MY Dream TV Pageant.
Dr. Ukti Goel, a dentist who has skillfully merged her passion for dentistry with her dedication to patient-centered care, operates multidisciplinary centers here in West Hartford and Wethersfield.
Her journey from a young girl in Kolkata, India, to a leading dental professional in Connecticut is a testament to her resilience, adaptability, and commitment to excellence.
Dr. Goel moved to the United States when she was 15, accompanied by her mother. Her father, a successful dentist with a multi-specialty practice clinic in India, remained behind to manage his business.
In the U.S., Ukti and her mother lived with relatives in Danbury, where she completed her high school education The decision to move here was driven by her mother’s aspiration for Ukti to be educated in the United States.
After completing her high school studies, she went to the University of Connecticut, where she earned her undergraduate degree in Physiology and Neurobiology and later her Doctor of Medicine in Dentistry. She initially considered a career as a medical doctor, but shifted gears after earning her Bachelor’s Degree.
“I was thinking I was going to go to medical school and specialize in Neuroscience but when I took the MCAT (Medical College Admission Test) and the Dental Admission Test, I did much better on the dental exams. I took that as a sign!”
The dental profession runs deep in Dr. Goel’s family, with her father, older brother, aunt, uncles, cousins, and extended relatives—totaling between 10 to 15 dentists—practicing in the field.
This familial influence instilled in her a profound understanding of the profession from an early age. After completing her education, Dr. Goel established her first dental practice in Wethersfield in 2016 and later expanded by acquiring a practice in West Hartford in 2019.
Between the two locations, she leads a dedicated team of about 14 dental professionals, including specialists.
Dr. Goel’s vision for her dental practices focuses on providing comprehensive, multi-specialty and patient-focused care.
She recognized a gap in the traditional dental care model, where patients often must visit multiple specialists for different treatments.
“I wanted to bridge that gap and bring all the specialties under one group.”
Her two locations integrate specialties such as Oral Surgery and Periodontics, as well as Cosmetic dentistry, offering services like implants, veneers, root canals, gum treatments and braces, all under one roof. This multidisciplinary approach ensures convenience and continuity of care for her patients.
The beauty contest hobby, she said, provides her with a creative outlet and a platform to inspire others professional women to undertake journeys that are challenging, rewarding and enriching.
“Because working women often juggle multiple responsibilities, from career and family to personal well-being. Prioritizing themselves is essential, not just for their own health and success, but also to be in the best position to uplift others. And I want to to give back to the community by serving and caring not only for their oral health as a medical professional but also use the platform as Ms Universe USA to empower women, advocate for equal rights and support Women in Business.”
“I wanted to bridge that gap and bring all the specialties under one group.”
Her passion for pursuing excellence extends beyond her dentistry, Dr. Goel also has pursued, and excelled at, a hobby in beauty pageants.
In 2018, she participated in the Miss India Connecticut pageant, where she was one of five finalists. She also participated in two consecutive pageants last year, and won the Ms. Universe USA 2025 in the MY Dream TV Pageant.
“It can be stressful, but it’s also fun. I think it’s important to have personal journeys in your life that are challenging and rewarding.”
Dr. Goel lives in Farmington with her 12-year-old daughter Brea, her fiancé Rohit Puranik, and their beloved family dog, Bindi.
West Hartford Dental Group
12 North Main St., Suite 101
Phone: 860-606-3953
Online: westhartforddentalgroup.com
Wethersfield Dental Group
55 Town Line Road, Suite 100, Wethersfield
Phone: 860-969-2281
Online: wethersfielddentalgroup.com
ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
From Stem To Vase:
TRANSFORMING FLORALS INTO ART
Flowers have a rich history of symbolic meanings.
As far back as the 19th century, they were used to convey secret messages. Stories throughout history recount how flowers were used to send hidden messages between people. French publishers began producing flower dictionaries that cataloged the many floral codes that had been gathered over time. Some of these meanings were linked to the flower’s root name, often derived from mythology, while others were drawn from the flowers themselves. The colors, medicinal properties, and even the superstitions
associated with these flowers all contributed to the creation of this secret language.
In addition to their symbolic significance, flowers bring natural beauty to any interior, enhancing spaces with their color, texture, and mood-boosting qualities. Floral arrangements not only create a cozy atmosphere but also infuse a room with personality, elevating the overall ambiance. There are multiple ways to creatively integrate florals into your home, and whether using fresh or artificial flowers, creative displays can make quite the statement piece.
Florals and Fruit
“Not only will the flowers’ fragrance fill the air, but the citrus notes from the fruit will add a refreshing scent.”
Add an extra burst of color and texture to your floral arrangement by layering fruit around the edges of your vase. To achieve this, place a smaller vase inside a larger one, ensuring the flowers stay contained in the inner vase to preserve their shape. Fill the surrounding space with water and then arrange sliced fruit along the vase’s outer sides. For a fresh touch, add ice cubes to keetp the fruit looking vibrant longer and to hold them in place. Not only will the flowers’ fragrance fill the air, but the citrus notes from the fruit will add a refreshing scent.
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Flower Frogs
Hanging Florals
For a dramatic effect, try creating a hanging floral display. Floral cones are available for this style, or you can craft your own for a more personalized, organic look. The contrast between longstemmed white flowers and a dark wall creates a striking visual impact.
No matter how you choose to display them, flowers are a wonderful addition to any room. They boost mood, improve air quality, spark creativity, and bring a decorative charm to any space.
Using a frog to display flowers creates a minimalist yet elegant look that highlights the individuality of each bloom. It helps the stems stay in place. To set it up, place the frog on your chosen display base, whether it’s a vase, bowl, platter, or any container you prefer. Then, simply insert the flower stems by gently pressing them into the prongs. Tip: Flowers with sturdy stems and a lighter top work best in a frog, as delicate blooms tend to lose their shape more quickly.
events
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
MAY 1ST
Author Talk: Lisa C. Taylor
River Bend Bookshop, 161 Park Road | 5:30 PM
River Bend Bookshop will host an author talk with Lisa C. Taylor, who will discuss her book "The Shape of What Remains." Taylor, winner of the Hugo House New Fiction Award in writing, is a widely published author in literary magazines and anthologies. She is the co-director of the Mesa Verde Writers Conference and Literary Festival. Visit riverbendbookshop.com for information.
MAY 3RD
Junior League of Hartford Showhouse Event
820 Prospect Ave., Hartford | 11:00 AM
The Junior League of Hartford hosts tours of the Connecticut Cottages & Garden's 2025 Designer Show House, a 1902 Tudor estate, from May 3-23. Tickets are $35 pre-sale and $50 beginning May 3. Proceeds from the tours will fund the League’s charitable projects. For tickets and times, visit Hartford.jl.org/ShowHouse. An Opening Night Party is planned for May 2, 6-9 p.m.
MAY 3RD
Ron's Run For the Roses Fundraiser
Farmington Polo Club, 162 Town Farm Road, Farmington | 2:30 PM
This Kentucky Derby-themed fundraiser for pancreatic cancer research invites guests to don their finest Derby attire, complete with stylish hats. Enjoy silent and live auctions, fun games, and an exciting “Raise Your Paddle” segment, all culminating in a live viewing of the Kentucky Derby on a giant screen! Visit Ronfoleyfoundation.org for information or tickets.
MAY 3RD
West Hartford Farmer's Market
Town Hall Parking Lot, 50 South Main St. | 9:00 AM
The "original" West Hartford Farmers Market returns for the season! The market promotes family-owned small businesses, offering quality products and locally produced foods. This is a state of Connecticut Certified Farmers Market and it offers a family and pet friendly atmosphere. The market runs twice a week beginning in June. For more information visit whfarmersmarket.com.
MAY 4TH
A Tree Tour of Westmoor Arboretum
Westmoor Park, 119 Flagg Road | 1:00 PM
Join tree naturalist, writer, and photographer Bill Gleason for a 2-hour walking tour of the Westmoor Arboretum. Located on the grounds of Westmoor Park, it showcases more than 130 different species of trees and woody plants. This spring tour highlights the specific and unique changes trees undergo as they emerge from winter. Email mbeaudreault@westhartfordct.gov for information.
MAY 20TH
Health & Wellness Fair
Isham Road, Blue Back Square | 12:00 PM
The town will host a free wellness fair from noon to 3 p.m. Come interact with a wide range of health and wellness professionals dedicated to making you feel your best, including spa and salon services, fitness centers, nutritionists, mental heath assistance, and non-profits. Visit westhartfordct.gov for information.
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