NOVEMBER IS THE SEASON OF GIVING THANKS AND GIVING BACK
November: Thankful
In this season of gratitude, we often find ourselves reflecting on the many blessings in our lives. Thanksgiving encourages us to slow down, embrace the present, and appreciate the people and moments that bring us joy.
Our November issue is dedicated to stories of gathering, giving back, and celebrating the people and organizations that make West Hartford such a special place.
November is National Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month and we spoke with leaders of the Ron Foley Foundation, named after Ron Foley, who died of pancreatic cancer, on its efforts to raise money for research and a cure.
Thanksgiving is a time when people rally to help others in their community and in our Giving Back feature we take a look at some of the local food drives that will take place this month.
We also have an article this month on Arden Courts, a facility where memory care is not an add-on to senior living—it is the sole focus. With a thoughtfully designed environment.
We are taking part this month in the City Lifestyle Giving Campaign, which you can read about in this issue. Now in its third year, the Campaign will give away $300,000 this holiday season to help individual community members who would benefit from a helping hand during their time of need.
In our Experts Espresso Corner feature this month we spoke with Avi SmithRapaport, of We Care Computers, about the importance of protecting your business network from cyber attacks, and Shell Sawyer, founder of Finding Strength with Shell, about divorce mediation.
We also have a story this month on Lion's Share Family Services and its founder Steve Lamantini. Steve started Lion's Share as a way to give back to his community after serving for years as a police officer.
Lastly, we have a recipe this month for a stuffed acorn squash that's sure to be a hit at your holiday
Wishing you and your family a season of gratitude and grace this Thanksgiving!
November 2025
PUBLISHER
Srivathsa (Sri) Ramachandran srivathsa.ramachandran@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Eileen McNamara | eileen.mcnamara@citylifestyle.com
ACCOUNT MANAGER
Jill Barry | jill.barry@citylifestyle.com
PUBLISHER ASSISTANT
Jayashree (Jaye) Subramanian jayashree.subramanian@citylifestyle.com
INTERN
Valentina Aramburo valentina.aramburo@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Brian Boyer, Avi Smith-Rapaport, Shell Sawyer
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Carrie Draghi, John Helmke, Michael O'Toole, Ben Jordan, Chad Williams
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
President Matthew Perry
COO David Stetler
CRO Jamie Pentz
CoS Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Mary Albers
LAYOUT DESIGNER Emily Lisenbee
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Brandy Thomas
Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com/franchise.
Proverbs 3:5-6
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
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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
Brianna L. Marquis
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For a private consultation, please contact one of our attorneys.
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STAMFORD GREENWICH WEST HARTFORD NAPLES BONITA SPRINGS PALM BEACH
city scene
1-7: The RiverLane, a women's fashions boutique with stores in Essex and Mystic, recently sponsored The Kate’s Gala where global icon Jane Fonda received the 10th Annual Spirit of Katharine Hepburn Award. Fonda shared memories of her time filming On Golden Pond with her father, Henry Fonda. Photography by The RiverLane
1-7: The WWII Legacy Foundation recently held a ribbon cutting ceremony at its newly opened museum in East Hartford. The Foundation was created to remember and honor those who served during World War II.
Photography by Ben Jordan of Photo Images Co.
1-7: West Hartford Lifestyle Magazine recently hosted a retirement party for its former owner, Gary Perrelli, and to welcome the new owners, Sri Ramachandran and Jaye Subramanian. Photography by Kaitlyn Casso
Watkinson School Chosen For Prestigious Documentary Series
Watkinson School has been selected to be featured on "Empowered," hosted by the actor Meg Ryan. Empowered produces short-form documentaries for Public Television stations across the country and is a critically-acclaimed television series dedicated to promoting female empowerment and excellence in education.. It began airing on Sept. 8. Empowered will highlight Watkinson's College Preparatory Education program and showcase the exceptional opportunities and experiences students gain through a Watkinson School education. Visit Watkinson.org for information.
Fahy
Photography by Chad Williams
The RiverLane Takes Buying Trip to NYC
The team at The RiverLane just returned from an exciting trip to New York City, where they spent several days curating pieces for the Spring 2026 buy. Each season, they carefully select styles that reflect the latest trends while staying true to their signature RiverLane look—timeless, wearable fashion with a modern edge. The RiverLane has stores in Mystic and Essex. Visit theriverlane.com for information and hours.
Photography Courtesy of The RiverLane
ARDEN COURTS FARMINGTON
A PURPOSE-BUILT COMMUNITY FOR MEMORY CARE
ARTICLE BY BRIAN BOYER | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOHN HELMKE
Staffers of Arden Courts Farmington
For families navigating the challenges of Alzheimer’s and dementia care, the search for the right community can be overwhelming. At Arden Courts Farmington, however, memory care is not an add-on to senior living—it is the sole focus. With a thoughtfully designed environment, comprehensive support systems and a compassionate team, Arden Courts has redefined what it means to provide dignity, safety and independence for residents facing memory loss.
“Dementia looks different on everyone, and the journey is unique to each individual,” said Kim Oliver, Senior Executive Director of Arden Courts of Avon and Farmington. “Our role is to support not just medical needs, but also the daily activities and choices that allow someone to live with purpose and connection.”
A PURPOSE-BUILT ENVIRONMENT
Arden Courts was among the first memory care communities in the country to be “purpose-built” for residents with Alzheimer’s and related dementias. Instead of adapting a traditional senior living facility, the community was designed from the ground up with memory care in mind.
“Our communities have four wings—what we call houses— each with its own kitchen, living room and bedrooms,” Oliver explained. “Here in Farmington, we have 14 bedrooms per house, and 16 in Avon. This setup makes daily life less overwhelming. Mealtimes, for example, are calmer and more personal than in a large dining hall with over 100 people.”
The design also supports independence and comfort. Wide hallways, themed spaces and outdoor courtyards encourage residents to explore safely. “We have 12 exit doors that lead to massive courtyards,” Oliver said. “They’re secure and fenced in, but designed so they fade into the background. Residents don’t have to wait for a staff member to unlock a door—they can step outside whenever they choose.”
CONTINUED >
BALANCING SAFETY WITH CHOICE
While Arden Courts communities are secure, safety measures never come at the expense of independence. Residents are free to move between houses, visit friends and choose their activities. “We provide programs and engagement opportunities 365 days a year,” Oliver said. “Our goal is to give residents choices so they feel empowered, while also knowing they’re safe.”
Families are central to this process. Before move-in, each family meets with a memory care advisor to share who their loved one was before dementia. “We want to know what mattered most in their life, what hobbies they loved and what concerns the family has,” Oliver explained. “That information guides us in matching them with a peer group and tailoring their experience here.”
A FULL CALENDAR OF ENGAGEMENT
From engaging exercise classes to lectures on historical events, Arden Courts Farmington offers a variety of programs designed to spark interest and connection. Religious services, arts and crafts, live entertainment and simple joys like bingo or café-style spaces give residents something to look forward to each day.
“The premise behind everything we do is engagement with meaning,” Oliver said. “Whether it’s sitting on a park bench in one of our themed areas or participating in a group activity, residents have options that make them feel part of a community.”
INNOVATIVE CARE FOR EVOLVING NEEDS
In Connecticut, assisted living facilities are not required to provide 24/7 nursing care. Arden Courts goes above and beyond. “We have nurses onsite around the clock, which means we can support residents with higher needs as they age,” Oliver said. This continuity of care allows many residents to remain at Arden Courts longer, surrounded by familiar staff and friends.
Another point of pride is Arden Courts’ dementia training, which extends to all staff—not just caregivers. “Administrative staff, culinary teams—everyone receives training,” Oliver noted. “It ensures that no matter who interacts with a resident, they do so with understanding and compassion.”
Arden Courts staff also follow the Alzheimer’s Association Dementia Care Practice Recommendations for quality care, which are based on a comprehensive review of current evidence, best practices and expert opinions on dementia care.
Arden Courts’ commitment has been recognized nationally; it is one of only 26 programs nationwide accredited by the Alzheimer’s Association for meeting rigorous care standards.
A CULTURE OF LONGEVITY AND CARE
Perhaps the strongest testament to Arden Courts’ values is the longevity of its staff. Many caregivers and certified nursing assistants have been with the organization for decades—some for nearly 30 years.
“That kind of stability isn’t common in our industry,” Oliver said. “It speaks to how we treat our employees. They feel supported, and in turn, that shows in the care they give our residents. When you walk into Arden Courts, you can feel the difference.” arden-courts.com
Lion’s Share Family Services
STEVE LAMANTINI GIVES BACK TO HIS CLIENTS WITH CARE AND COMPASSION
ARTICLE BY EILEEN M. MCNAMARA
PHOTOGRAPHY BY CARRIE
DRAGHI
Steve Lamantini, the founder of Lion’s Share Family Services
Steve Lamantini, the founder of Lion’s Share Family Services, is redefining dementia care through personalized support and community integration. As a Certified Dementia Practitioner (CDP) Steve has completed rigorous training focused on dementia-specific techniques, brain function, and medications, bringing specialized knowledge to the elder care he provides through his company.
With a background in criminal justice and extensive experience in dementia care, Steve can meet the unique needs of individuals with dementia, particularly through services that prioritize dignity, independence, and personalized social experiences.
Dementia care has become an essential part of the services Steve provides through Lion’s Share Family Services. Dementia care goes beyond basic assistance, he says. It requires a deep understanding of how to maintain the social and emotional well-being of those affected. Steve’s philosophy centers on bringing joy back into his clients’ lives by reintroducing them to meaningful activities in ways that honor their limitations.
For example, if a client once enjoyed fishing but can no longer manage the physical demands, Steve says, he might take them to a fish hatchery to replicate that enjoyment in a simpler, more accessible way.
“Socialization is one of the most important aspects of care,” he emphasizes. “My specialty is figuring out what they enjoy or used to enjoy and making that part of their lives again.”
Steve also addresses another often-overlooked aspect of dementia care: the practical and logistical needs of his clients.
His services frequently involve problem-solving tasks, such as coordinating home repairs, working with contractors, and organizing personal errands. Recently, he helped a new client take her car for service,
manage emissions testing, and arrange for a railing installation at her home.
His hands-on assistance with these tasks ensures that his clients can maintain a safe and functional living environment, reducing their families’ stress. For clients and their families, Steve’s extensive network and trusted relationships with local contractors, service providers, and community members are invaluable.
His dedication has saved clients time and money. He recalls a recent bathroom renovation for a client, where his connections saved her nearly $9,000.
“I’m very protective of the people I take care of,” he says, underscoring his commitment to securing trustworthy and cost-effective solutions for his clients’ needs.
One unique service Steve offers is taking clients out into the community for recreational and social experiences—an aspect that is often challenging for families to manage on their own. He recently received a call from a woman whose husband, currently in a rehabilitation center, simply wanted to go out for breakfast. Steve was able to make that outing happen, providing companionship and support while giving the client a much-needed change of scenery.
His care approach is guided by compassion and a deep understanding of how important it is for people with dementia to feel connected, valued, and respected. Through Lion’s Share Family Services, Steve’s dementia care is tailored to empower clients, helping them feel a renewed sense of purpose and dignity.
Grounded in both knowledge and empathy, this approach allows individuals with dementia to stay engaged with the world around them, maintain cherished activities, and live with as much independence as possible. Call 860-836-6531 for a free phone consultation or email stevelsfs@gmail.com. Online: lionssharefamilyservices.com, Theprofessionalson.com.
“Socialization is one of the most important aspects of care. My specialty is figuring out what they enjoy or used to enjoy and making that part of their lives again.”
Stuffed Acorn Squash
ARTICLE BY EILEEN M. MCNAMARA
A Unique Recipe That Combines Two Thanksgiving Favorites
Stuffed Acorn Squash with Herbs and Crumb Topping
A warm and hearty dish, stuffed acorn squash makes a perfect centerpiece for fall gatherings. Its natural sweetness pairs beautifully with savory fillings, while fresh herbs like rosemary and sage elevate the flavor. The breadcrumb topping adds a golden crunch, making each bite comforting and satisfying.
ingredients:
• 2 acorn squash, halved and seeds removed
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 cup cooked quinoa or rice
• ½ cup sautéed onions and garlic
• ½ cup grated Parmesan
• ½ cup breadcrumbs
• 2 tbsp butter, melted
• Fresh rosemary and sage
• Salt and pepper
instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F. Brush squash halves with olive oil, season, and roast cut-side down for 30 minutes.
2. In a bowl, combine quinoa, onions, garlic, and Parmesan.
3. Spoon filling into roasted squash. Mix breadcrumbs with butter; sprinkle on top.
4. Return to oven for 15 minutes, until golden. Garnish with rosemary and sage.
H O P E
with YOU
The holidays have a way of calling us back to what matters most—faith, family, compassion, and the quiet but powerful act of giving. As lights go up and calendars fill, there are still many who sit in silence, carrying burdens too heavy to bear alone. But what if this season, you could be the spark that changes everything for someone else?
The founders of City Lifestyle, through their private foundation, are once again launching its annual Christmas Giving Campaign—a heartfelt effort to seek out and support individuals and families who have quietly fallen through the cracks. The mission is simple: to bring light, dignity, and hope to those who need it most.
Since its beginning just four years ago, this initiative has grown from a humble idea into a life-changing movement. Last Christmas alone, more than 200 families across the country received unexpected support—financial relief, but also something even more powerful.
“We don’t just send checks,” says Steven Schowengerdt, CEO and founder of City Lifestyle. “We send a message: You are seen. You are loved. And you are not forgotten.”
Together with City Lifestyle President Matthew Perry, Steven has helped shape this into a tradition that goes far beyond charity. “This is about community,” Matthew adds. “We believe we’ve been blessed, so now we get to be a blessing.”
Every story begins with a nomination. Often, it’s a neighbor, coworker, friend, or teacher—someone who’s been quietly carrying too much for too long. One past recipient, after receiving unexpected support during a time of deep personal struggle, wrote:
SCAN TO NOMINATE
“We send a message: You are seen. You are loved. And you are not forgotten.”
“Beyond the very practical solution of receiving funds to fix my car, this thing you guys worked together to do is bigger than that. I carry the Christmas card you sent in my purse. When things get really hard, I pull it out and remember what it felt like to be seen. That card represents hope— that change for the better is possible. I’m not sure how many people get to carry hope around in their purse. But I do.”
Another wrote in after her husband was diagnosed with aggressive brain cancer and unable to work:
“This support has blessed our family not only financially, but emotionally and spiritually as we trust God to meet our needs throughout this difficult time. Thank you to our anonymous friend and to your foundation. What a joy and gift to be part of God’s family!”
Each year brings countless stories like these—real lives touched by simple acts of kindness. Some use the funds to pay overdue bills, others to afford groceries, medication, or repairs. But no matter the circumstance, the impact is the same: hope is restored.
This season, you have the opportunity to be part of that. The campaign is now open to nominations—completely confidential and prayerfully considered. Whether it’s someone battling illness, facing unemployment, or just in need of a helping hand, you can bring them a moment of grace that will ripple far beyond Christmas morning.
“Knowing my mom was chosen filled my heart with indescribable joy,” said another past recipient. “Your generosity doesn’t just brighten her life; it inspires hope and faith in all of us. It enables her to stay in her home and get back on her feet.”
Nominations are open from November 1st to December 5th, 2025. To submit someone you know, simply scan the QR code or visit @CityLifestyle on Instagram, where you’ll find the nomination form in the bio.
This holiday season, let’s give more than gifts. Let’s give each other the gift of being seen. Because sometimes, the smallest gesture becomes someone’s greatest miracle.
To nominate someone in need, visit: KingdomBuildingFoundation.org or scan the QR code.
Experts Espresso Corner
Avi Smith-Rapaport: We Care Computers, Shell Sawyer, Finding Strength with Shell
th-Rapaport, We Care Com
Are you really protected from cyberattacks?
A small law firm we know of recently got hit with ransomware when an employee clicked a bad email link. Within minutes, every document on their network was encrypted and locked.
They thought they were too small to be a target. They weren’t.
Most cyberattacks happen to businesses with fewer than 100 employees. Hackers count on you being unprepared. Is your antivirus software up to date? Maybe your passwords are strong, but is multi-factor authentication turned on? Do your backups actually work?
This stuff sounds technical, but it really comes down to one question: if your systems went down tomorrow, how fast could you bounce back?
Cybersecurity doesn’t have to be complicated. But it does have to be taken seriously.
At We Care Computers, we help small businesses put real protection in place before it’s too late. wecarecomputers.com | 860-836-4191
Sawyer, Finding StrengthW
Hello! I’m Shell Sawyer, a Certified Divorce Financial Analyst®, and I’m the heartfelt force behind Finding Strength with Shell . As a Personal Divorce Guide, Mediator, and Financial Recovery Coach, I’m dedicated to helping you navigate the complexities of divorce with clarity, confidence, and emotional resilience.
My signature approach blends empathy with empowerment. I meet my clients exactly where they are, both emotionally and financially, helping them create a clear and hopeful path forward. Having experienced my own journey through divorce, I deeply understand the feelings of overwhelm and uncertainty. This personal insight drives my mission to serve others, turning my challenges into a guiding light for those in need.
My latest initiative is the From Fear to Financial Strength Group Coaching Program. This four-week online program is crafted to help participants transform financial anxiety into confident decision-making. My work goes beyond coaching; it’s part of a supportive movement toward healing, strength, and self-discovery. Remember, you’re not alone. Your next chapter can be your most empowering one yet!
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·
appointment: Rios.Team@oahctmd.com (860) 549-8295
ARTICLE BY EILEEN M. MCNAMARA
THE ORGANIZATION OPERATES NOVEMBER FUNDRAISERS SUPPORTING PANCREATIC CANCER RESEARCH
RON FOLEY FOUNDATION
Ron’s Run, a Kentucky Derby–themed gala that has become one of Greater Hartford’s signature charity events, anchors the year-round work of the
“THE
assist patients and caregivers, underwrite medical research, and drive public awareness across Connecticut.
That momentum carries into
FOUNDATION’S NOVEMBER PROGRAMMING INCLUDES COMMUNITY
EDUCATION, SOCIAL-MEDIA CAMPAIGNS AND PARTNER EVENTS.”
Ron Foley Foundation (RFF) and sets the stage for a month of action each November during National Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month.
Founded in memory of Ron Foley, who died of pancreatic cancer in 2005, the nonprofit funds patient assistance, education and research while rallying the community around a disease that remains one of the deadliest cancers.
The 16th annual Ron’s Run for the Roses drew supporters to Farmington Polo Club on May 3, continuing a tradition that began with a backyard Kentucky Derby party in 2009. It has since grown into a polished, high-impact fundraiser that raises money and awareness to pancreatic cancer research.
The Derby-day format—hats, seersucker and spirited auctions—raises dollars and visibility in equal measure, with proceeds fueling programs that
November, when RFF aligns local efforts with National Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month and World Pancreatic Cancer Day, a global observance held on the third Thursday of November (this year on Nov. 20, 2025).
The foundation’s November programming typically includes community education, social-media campaigns and partner events designed to “turn the town purple,” spotlight symptoms, and encourage early conversations with clinicians—key steps given pancreatic cancer’s often late diagnosis.
Awareness Month is more than a color palette. National and international coalitions emphasize symptom recognition (such as unexplained weight loss, jaundice and new-onset diabetes), risk-factor education, and the importance of clinical trials—messaging that RFF amplifies locally through talks,
CONTINUED >
media appearances and collaborations with area hospitals and businesses. The World Pancreatic Cancer Coalition, of which leading U.S. nonprofits are members, marks the month with coordinated campaigns and digital events to boost literacy and support.
For RFF, the through-line from May to November has a practical impact. Funds raised at Ron’s Run and subsequent activities support direct grants and patient-aid initiatives—help that can cover transportation, household bills or other urgent needs while families navigate treatment. The foundation also backs research and education, including programs with Hartford Hospital and community partners that keep the conversation going beyond a single gala or a single day.
With World Pancreatic Cancer Day falling on Nov. 20 this year, organizers are urging residents, schools and businesses to light buildings purple, host awareness days, and share stories that honor loved ones and survivors.
Paired with the visibility and generosity harnessed each spring at Ron’s Run, November’s activities give the cause two powerful tentpoles—one celebratory, one educational—both aimed at the same goal: earlier detection, better outcomes and a community that shows up for neighbors when it matters most. For more information visit ronfoleyfoundation.org.
UPCOMING RON FOLEY FOUNDATION EVENTS:
November 1-30 :
“Battle of the Bars” at Artisan Southport and Artisan West Hartford, a portion of the proceeds go to the Ron Foley Foundation.
We Care Card - Offered by the Hartford Center Association the $50 card offers discounts at participating merchants and restaurants around WH Center from Nov. 6-16.
Candlelight Vigil - Planned for Nov. 20, World Pancreatic Cancer Day, the Ron Foley Foundation hosts a candlelight vigil in Veterans’ Memorial Park in West Hartford Center.
Ronfoleyfoundation.org
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GIVING BACK
LOCAL THANKSGIVING MEALS AND FOOD DRIVES IN WEST HARTFORD
ARTICLE BY EILEEN M. MCNAMARA
As Thanksgiving approaches, many families look forward to gathering around the table with a holiday feast. But for some in Greater Hartford, putting that meal together is not easy. Each year, local organizations step up to make sure neighbors don’t go without on this important holiday. From sit-down dinners to food baskets and turkey drives, West Hartford and Hartford area groups are giving back in ways that strengthen community ties.
WEST HARTFORD’S TOWN THAT CARES
The Town That Cares Fund and West Hartford Social Services operate a year-round food pantry that becomes especially vital during the holidays. Located at West Hartford Town Hall, the pantry provides staples and holiday fixings to families who need a little extra help. Distribution times are held three times a week, with curbside pickup available for convenience and accessibility. The program relies heavily on community donations of non-perishable goods, and West Hartford residents consistently come through.
COMMUNITY HEALTH SERVICES TURKEY DRIVE
In Hartford, Community Health Services (CHS) organizes a large Thanksgiving turkey distribution each year. Families who register in advance receive a turkey along with traditional fixings, helping them prepare their own meal at home. The program partners with Connecticut Foodshare to reach hundreds of households. For many, this drive makes the difference between struggling and celebrating.
JOAN C. DAUBER FOOD PANTRY
The Joan C. Dauber Food Pantry, operated by Saint Francis Hospital, provides Thanksgiving baskets filled with poultry and holiday side dishes. Located on Tower Avenue in Hartford, the pantry is open weekly and plays a major role in supporting local families year-round. At Thanksgiving, the special distribution allows people to enjoy a full holiday dinner with dignity and care.
CONNECTICUT FOODSHARE AND REGIONAL DRIVES
As the state’s largest hunger-relief organization, Connecticut Foodshare coordinates with dozens of community partners to make sure turkeys and meal kits reach those who need them most. Their well-known “Turkey and Thirty” campaign rallies
“As the state’s largest hunger-relief organization, Connecticut Foodshare coordinates with dozens of community partners.”
businesses, civic groups, and individuals to donate either a turkey or $30 to fund meals. Local Stop & Shop stores, schools, and civic clubs in West Hartford often join in, turning grocery shopping into an act of giving back.
COMMUNITY-DRIVEN FOOD DRIVES
Beyond meal programs and large-scale distributions, grassroots and civic organizations in West Hartford host creative and impactful food drives each year.
The Rotary’s annual “food caravan” delivers thousands of dollars’ worth of non-perishables for a local food pantry.
Each November the West Hartford Police hold a holiday food drive.
• West Hartford Police Department: Officers regularly support holiday drives, collecting turkeys, canned goods, and funds for Connecticut Foodshare and the Town That Cares pantry. Their efforts highlight how local law enforcement plays a direct role in community care.
• Rotary Club of West Hartford: The Rotary’s annual “food caravan” delivers thousands of dollars’ worth of non-perishables to Town Hall, often with a police escort. Weekly “mini food drives” at club meetings and fundraising challenges such as “Happy Dollar” have raised tens of thousands of dollars in recent years for families in need.
• Food4WH (Food for West Hartford): This neighborhood-based initiative organizes block-by-block food collections that supply the Town That Cares pantry. With volunteer “street contacts” and easy donation drop-offs at Town Hall, Food4WH empowers residents to contribute directly and regularly.
• Stop & Shop Thanksgiving Drives: Local grocery stores, especially Stop & Shop, host seasonal drives where shoppers can purchase and donate food items at the register, adding to the overall community safety net.
DECEMBER
events
NOVEMBER 1ST
Comedy Nights at Playhouse on Park
Playhouse on Park Theatre, 244 Park Road. | 8:00 PM
Join the Playhouse on Park Theatre for 90 minutes of laughs during Comedy Night. This month's Comedy Night will feature comics Dan Guerin and Eric Tartaglione. Doors open 30 minutes before the show and tickets for reserved seating start at $23.50. This is a BYOB event. Visit playhouseonpark.org.
NOVEMBER 1ST
Election Cake Bakeoff
Connecticut's Old State House, 800 Main St., Hartford | 12:00 PM
This annual event revives a historical Connecticut tradition of pastry chefs and bakers competing to create a cake that becomes the “official Connecticut Election Cake” for that year's legislative elections. The bakeoff is open to the public and is family friendly, with cake tastings, games, music and festivities. Visit Ct.gov and search "Old Statehouse" for more information
NOVEMBER 1ST
46th Annual CT Fall Home Show
Connecticut Convention Center, 100 Columbus Blvd., Hartford | 11:00 AM
The Largest fall home show expo in New England returns Nov. 1 & 2, providing access to the best home builders & contractors under one roof. The show will feature 200 Home Expo Exhibitors- from general contractors to home decorators, handymen and more. Tickets are $10, for adults, $8 for seniors, (65+Over), and children 12 and younger admitted free. Visit Jenksproductions.com.
NOVEMBER 8TH
West Hartford Anime Club
Noah Webster Library, 20 South Main St. | 2:00 PM
The West Hartford Anime Club is a welcoming, inclusive, and accessible space for adults interested in anime and manga to come together and share their passions. Whether you're new to the fandom or a seasoned fan, you're invited to join in. Contact Leah Farrell, lfarrell@westhartfordct.gov, for information.
NOVEMBER 21ST
Seconds Out: A Tribute to the Music of Genesis
New Park Brewing, 485 New Park Ave. | 7:00 PM
By request, Seconds Out, a Genesis tribute band, will return to New Park Brewing for a night of music in the brewery's Green Room. For more information or tickets visit Newparkbrewing.com.
NOVEMBER 22ND
81st Annual Parade of Barbershop Quartets
Sedgewick Middle School, 128 Sedgwick Road | 7:30 PM
The 81st Annual Parade of Barbershop Quartets will feature numerous internationally acclaimed quartets at this Sunday Night Social, including The Hartford Wailers and Greenlight and many more! Visit Bandsintown.com for information and tickets.
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Schedule
Tips on meal prepping for less stress
Let’s face it: hosting Thanksgiving dinner can be stressful. To make this year’s Thanksgiving meal easier and more enjoyable, consider the following timeline of tips.
2 WEEKS BEFORE
Create Your Thanksgiving Menu
• Print out the recipes you plan to use – this will easier than constantly tapping your phone to prevent the screen from going dark.
• Using your menu and printed out recipes as a guide, compose a complete shopping list.
• Double check your supply of herbs and spices to see what you have on hand.
• Shop for all non-perishable and frozen food items. Basically, if it doesn’t need to be stored in the fridge, or if it doesn’t have a short shelf life, it’s going in the cart.
• Plan three easy and tasty dinners for the days leading up to Thanksgiving and purchase those ingredients during your shopping trip. Or plan at least one night of takeout.
4-5 DAYS BEFORE
Clean & Organize, Buy Fresh
Groceries
• Clean your home completely. Then, as the big day approaches, you can touch up as needed.
• Finish your grocery shopping for fresh vegetables like potatoes, onions and carrots and other items not purchased earlier.
• Go through your fridge and toss any old, expired condiments, leftovers and mysterious food items that no one is eating.
2-3 DAYS BEFORE
Prep Meals & Set the Table
• Wash and chop all veggies and place the prepped produce into plastic baggies or airtight food storage containers. If some recipes call for “minced onion” and others require “chopped onion,” label the bags accordingly.
• Set the table, and include the empty serving dishes. This will help you figure out ahead of time where the larger dishes can go. Add Post-It notes to the empty dishes to remind you what will go in what. Use a clean sheet to cover everything and keep it all dust-free.
• Gather all needed serving spoons and other serving pieces.
• Pre-measure herbs and spices for your recipes and store them in labeled small plastic bags with the name of the dish they are for and what’s in the baggies. You can also do the same for any flour, sugar or other non-perishable ingredients you’ll use in your dishes.
1 DAY BEFORE
Tidy, Prepare Dishes & Drinks
• Do a quick clean and tidy around the home; for instance, run the vacuum.
• If you haven’t already done so, bake your pies, or, at the very least, prepare your pie dough.
• Make the mashed potatoes. Bonus tip: on Thanksgiving, put the potatoes into a slow cooker and heat them up using the “warm” setting.
• Prepare the gravy. If you have a second slow cooker, it too can be warmed up this way on Thanksgiving. This will also help free up pots, pans and burners on the stove!
• Set up a separate drink station where guests can help themselves or someone can serve them away from the kitchen. Stock it with glasses of different sizes, napkins, bottle and can openers and straws.
ARTICLE BY ALISON STANTON
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