A SAMPLING OF BREAD AND BAKED GOODS FROM SMALL STATE PROVISIONS
Tui Na CERTIFICATION WORKSHOP
with Dr. Wu, PH.D
March 1-2, 2025
10am - 6pm
Wu Healing Center:
45 S. Main St. Suite 100 West Hartford
Support for a healthy life.
Learn how to:
• Use 9 easy acupressure lines to treat any condition.
• Use the 1,730 year old “Instant Pain Elimination Technique” to instantly eliminate aches, pains, and other conditions.
• Use 10 simple points to find instant relief from 10 every-day problems (knee pain, shoulder pain, headaches, hip pain, low back pain, etc.)
• Easily find Qi blockages along the 9 acupressure lines and restore Qi flow.
October
October is our Food Issue. It's popular with readers and for good reason: It’s a time when we look at some of the incredible food options we have in our region and the people who make it or bring it to us through their diverse food businesses.
Here in West Hartford we have a bakery, Small State Provisions, that specializes in sourdough bread and which uses all organic ingredients in everything it makes. But Small State and its owner Kevin Masse go well beyond creating mouth-watering breads and pastries. The bakery also seeks to nourish the soul of the communities in this region.
Looking for a restaurant or bar with a view? You’ll want to check out our story on R iver: A Waterfront Restaurant & Bar and its sister eatery, Tequila Rio Mexican Cantina. Both are located on the banks of the Connecticut River in Wethersfield. The commanding water views from the restaurants' indoor and outdoor dining areas is second only to the outstanding fresh food they both serve up.
We also have a feature this month on two new dining and drinking options at Sicily Coal Fired Pizza. Not content to rest on its laurels as an upscale pizza restaurant that has become a staple in Middletown’s Main Street dining scene, Sicily recently added an ice cream parlor, Nitro Cream N Crumbz, where it serves up freshly made ice cream, as well as its new Wine Bar, a chic and intimate gathering place.
There’s a new medical aesthetic’s business on the scene here in West Hartford. FemCare Medspa on Raymond Road offers unique services to women and caters specifically to women at every age, before, during and after menopause, to keep you feeling like your unique self at every age.
Looking for a local getaway this October? We have a story this month on Winvian, a resort nestled in the Litchfield Hills, which features 18 uniquely themed cottages each designed by a different architect.
Lastly, we have a chicken soup recipe in this issue, just in time for the cooler weather.
We hope you enjoy this month’s issue of West Hartford Lifestyle Magazine and that you get out and enjoy some of our excellent food establishments throughout our region! If you celebrate Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur, may you have a healthy and happy New Year and be inscribed in the book of life.
GARY PERRELLI, PUBLISHER @WESTHARTFORD_LIFESTYLE
October 2024 Visit our Instagram
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Gary Perrelli | gary.perrelli@citylifestyle.com
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Eileen McNamara
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INTERN
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CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Alex Franklin, Lucinda Jamison, Brian Boyer, Marisa MacLean
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
John Helmke, Julie Bidwell, Michele Tereso, Frank Gutierrez, Connecticut Headshots, Sophia Springer, Winvian
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CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt
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Learn
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!
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
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STAMFORD GREENWICH WEST HARTFORD NAPLES BONITA SPRINGS PALM BEACH
scene
1-4: Scenes from the recent production of Prom at Playhouse on Park in West Hartford. 5-7: Blue Back Square recently wrapped up their Sounds of Summer concert series.
business monthly
Studio 310 Hosts Business After Hours
Studio 310 celebrated one year in business in West Hartford with a Business After Hours event. Studio 310 provides an alternative to commercial gyms and their “one-size-fits-all” approach to fitness. Their trainers operate independently and their innovative “shared gym space” concept provides them full access to the gym, making it easy to maintain a workout routine that fits your schedule. Visit studio310ct.com for more information.
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Game Day Men's Health Has Ribbon Cutting
Gameday Men's Health celebrated their Grand Opening of their West Hartford Office with a Ribbon Cutting on Aug. 15. Gameday Men's Health makes up for what other men’s clinics lack and then takes it one step further. They get your testosterone levels back to what they should be, so you can live your passionate, purposeful life. For more information visit Gamedaymenshealth.com/west-hartford.
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Madison Fournier Joins Enfield Fencing Club
Madison Fournier, former owner of Mama Coach LLC, has joined Enfield Fencing Club, alongside owners Gherardo Mauri, Ian Tucker, and Ben Ide. Located in North Central Connecticut, Enfield Fencing Club offers premier sabre and foil classes for both children and adults. The club represents a new chapter for Fournier, leveraging her expertise in coaching and business to enhance the club's programs and community engagement. Visit Enfieldfencingclub.com for information.
The RiverLane Takes Part in Fashion Show
The RiverLane, a women's fashion and accessories boutique with stores in Mystic and Essex, recently took part in the Madison Beach Club's Annual Summer Fashion Show. One of the outfits featured in the show was this bell-sleeved tiered dress by the designer Oliphant. RiverLane has stores at 7 Main St., Essex and 16 West Main St., Mystic. Visit TheRiverLane.com for more information.
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Aurora Foundation Names 2024 Luminary Chair
The Aurora Women and Girls Foundation has named Dr. Kyra Dorsey, a chemical engineer and founder/CEO of Glory Group LLC, based in West Hartford, and a member of the Aurora Foundation's Board of Directors as chair of the 2024 Luminary Celebration. The Luminary Celebration is a joyful annual fundraiser benefiting Aurora’s research and College Success programs. The event will be held Wednesday, Oct. 23, at the Bushnell in Hartford. Visit Aurorafoundation.org for more information.
Local 7th Grader Publishes Book
Madison Burns, a 7th grader at Sedgwick Middle School, recently self-published her first novel, The Scuba Diving Duo, a teen romance, in part to educate people about the endangered vaquita porpoise. Madison is donating a majority of the proceeds from the sale of her book to support vaquita rescue and to find a way to help this endangered species. You can find the book on Amazon.com, search Madison Burns.
Photography by Rachel Edwards
Photography Courtesy of the Aurora Foundation
Local Woman Publishes Novel
Local resident Teri Leonard Michaud, an author and former teacher at Bristow Middle School, has written a novel that was recently published. In "Where Are All The Kids?" Teri unflinchingly explores the true story of a mother amid the dynamics of marriage, family, and addiction in 1958, a time when women were rarely given the option to stand on their own. Visit Teriwrites.com for more information and to order.
Photography by Frank Gutierrez
ARTICLE BY MARISA MACLEAN PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF WINVIAN
HOME AWAY FROM HOME
ESCAPE TO WINVIAN WITH THE WHOLE FAMILY.
Imagine a place where the boundaries between imagination and reality blur, where every corner holds a new surprise, and where your family’s dreams come to life—that’s exactly what we found at Winvian. Nestled in the Litchfield Hills, this distinguished Relais & Châteaux, AAA FiveDiamond property features 18 uniquely themed cottages, each designed by a different architect to capture a piece of Connecticut’s natural beauty and cultural heritage.
The pool.
The Woodlawn Dining Room.
“Winvian isn’t just another luxury resort— it’s a place that offers a distinct and memorable experience, one we’re already looking forward to revisiting.”
We took a recent trip to Winvian, as they now welcome children of all ages. For our family, the Helicopter Cottage truly brought the magic to life. The look on our son’s face as he saw the fully restored 1968 Sikorsky Sea King Pelican helicopter that dominated the room was priceless. The interior, transformed into a sleeping nook, allowed him to live out his dream of spending the night in a real helicopter. Our daughter was equally captivated—for her, it was the pool, which quickly became her favorite spot.
The cottage combined the charm of a woodsy retreat with the luxurious comforts you’d expect from a Five-Diamond property. The oversized soaking tub was perfect for unwinding after a day of exploring, and the radiant heated floors and fireplace added a cozy warmth that made us feel right at home. Every detail was curated to make the space feel like a page out of a storybook.
Dining at Winvian was a standout part of our stay. The Restaurant at Winvian is led by Executive Chef Chris Eddy, who, prior to helming the award-winning kitchen, worked in the worlds of Alain Ducasse and Daniel Boulud. He brings a philosophy of “seed-to-table” to life with a menu that changes daily, based on what’s freshest from Winvian’s three-acre organic farm and greenhouses.
Nearly everything on the menu is sourced directly from the property. One evening, we enjoyed a tender lamb ragout paired with handmade pasta that was comforting and refined. The setting also enhanced the experience— one of the strikingly redesigned dining
CONTINUED >
The interior of the Helicopter Cottage.
rooms opened to the lush outdoors and an intimate terrace by a babbling brook. (And if you have picky eaters in your family, rest assured that the restaurant is happy to accommodate kid-friendly favorites like chicken tenders and french fries.)
While the Cottage and dining were highlights, we spent our days exploring the property, taking bike rides – each cottage comes with two bicycles— and trying the resort’s unique activities. One of the most special moments for me was bonding with my kids during a stained glass workshop. Everyone loved the pool, and in the evenings, the whole family gathered around the fire pit to toast s’mores.
I also took the opportunity to sneak away for a deep tissue massage at the Spa at Winvian. Voted the best resort spa in the U.S. by the 2023 Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards, the spa provided exactly the escape I needed. The tranquil setting, with a wood-burning fireplace in the treatment room, made it a truly refreshing break during our stay.
As we prepared to leave, there was a shared feeling that we had experienced something truly special. Winvian isn’t just another luxury resort—it’s a place that offers a distinct and memorable experience, one we’re already looking forward to revisiting.
The Spa at Winvian.
The exterior of the Library Cottage
DINNER, LUNCH OR BRUNCH, WITH A VIEW!
ARTICLE BY EILEEN M. MCNAMARA | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOHN HELMKE
River: A Waterfront Restaurant & Bar and Tequila Rio
Serve Up Fresh and Diverse Food With Stunning Water Views
It’s hard to say which of the several dining spaces at River: A Waterfront Restaurant & Bar, is more captivating.
For sure the main seating area, with its floor-to-ceiling windows and expansive views of the Connecticut River (which encompasses the Boathouse down river in Glastonbury) is a show-stopper. Though it can seat more than 150 people, the main dining room’s subtle dark colors, private booth seating areas, adjoining bar, river views and a covered, heated outdoor deck is both grand and intimate.
The deck, which runs the length of the restaurant and overlooks the water, provides outdoor dining for River. On the patio below, just a stone’s throw from the broad sweep of the Connecticut River, is another dining area for River’s sister restaurant, Tequila Rio Mexican Cantina.
If it’s raining or too cold to sit on Tequila Rio’s patio, you can dine in Tequila’s “Jungle Barroom” inside. Located within the office building’s lobby, the Jungle Barroom is a two-story intimate atrium space with a pair of live trees in its center, overhead string lights above and a glass ceiling where you can see the stars at night.
If you’re visiting on a Friday or Saturday night, you can take in a comedy show at Brew HaHa, a comedy club that is another offering by River, located just across the
Martha Henney, whose family owns the two restaurants.
Tequila Rio's patio overlooks the Connecticut River with sweeping views all the way to Glastonbury.
hall from the Jungle Bar, and which features a rotating schedule of acts each week.
River and Tequila Rio are owned by Chris and Martha Henney, along with their son Patrick.
“This is definitely a family affair,” Martha says.
The family, which defines River as an Italian Steakhouse, opened River in 2018 in space just off the lobby of a seven-story office building the couple built in the 1980s on Great Meadow Road in Wethersfield.
“We wanted to take advantage of the waterfront views and all the walls of glass in this space. Also, there aren’t a lot of riverfront places to eat and not everyone has access to these kinds of river views.”
The creation of River wasn’t just an investment for the Henneys. It was, and still is, a labor of love. Chris and Martha have long shared a passion for food and cooking, so much so the couple took off a year in their 40s to go to culinary school together.
That passion is evident in the food served at the restaurants. There is a pastry chef on staff as well as chefs versed in making fresh bread and pasta on site. River also makes its own fresh ice cream and each month River features a new, original dessert on the menu.
“Our desserts are amazing!” Martha says.
All of the seafood is brought in fresh daily and its steaks are USDA prime.
One of River’s signature and popular dishes, Martha adds, is its Seafood Linguini, a melange of seared scallops, mussels, cod, little neck clams, shrimp and calamari. The dish is served as either a white or red sauce.
Other menu favorites, Martha says, are the Asiago Salmon, served with fresh daily vegetables and risotto, and the River’s Roasted Chicken, a hearty roasted half chicken basted with a lemon creme fraiche sauce and served over a generous slice of freshly baked sourdough bread and served with garlic-scallion mashed potatoes and fresh vegetables.
River, which won the Hartford Courant’s 2024 Best of Award Experts’ Pick for Best Waterfront Dining, is open for lunch and dinner, and offers brunch on Saturdays and Sundays. It also offers a Happy Hour in the River Barroom from 3-6 p.m. weekdays and 3-6 p.m. weekends. The menu includes Happy Hour-priced fresh drinks, beers and wines, as well as a Happy Hour food menu.
River: A Waterfront Restaurant & Bar & Tequila Rio Mexican Cantina. 100 Great Meadow Road, Wethersfield 860-257-3344
Online: riverontheriver.com Tequilario.com
Mon.- Thurs., 4-8:30 p.m.; Fri & Sat. 4-9:30 p.m., Sun. 4-7:30 p.m. Lunch
Mon.- Fri. 11:30 a.m. – 2:45 p.m. Brunch
Sat., 11 a.m.- 2:45 p.m.; Sun., 10 a.m. - 2:45 p.m.
TEQUILA RIO’S KITCHEN HOURS: Tues.-Thurs., 4-8:30 p.m.; Fri.-Sat., 4-9:30 p.m. Closed Sunday and Monday.
River's Asiago Salmon entree is a popular menu staple
Patrick, Chris and Martha Henney, owners of River and Tequila Rio
The interior of River
RIVER’S KITCHEN HOURS: Dinner
Arden Courts Memory Care Community, located on South Rd in Farmington caters to the special needs of individuals with memory loss. Staffed by specially trained caregivers, Arden Courts cares for individuals diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias. Our community features friendly common spaces, an inviting kitchen and family rooms and walking paths within enclosed courtyards, all designed for the safety and comfort of our residents.
A NEW WINE BAR AND Ice Cream Shop
SICILY COAL FIRED PIZZA EXPANDS IT DINING OPTIONS
ARTICLE BY LUCINDA JAMISON | PHOTOGRAPHY BY MICHELE TERESO
The new Wine Bar at Sicily Coal Fired Pizza
Middletown already offers a vibrant dining scene, but Tony Prifitera, owner of Sicily Coal Fired Pizza, is taking things to the next level with the recent addition of the Nitro Cream ‘n Crumbz ice cream shop and an upscale lounge, The Wine Bar. The new ventures aren’t just about food and drink; they’re about offering experiences that leave a lasting impression.
Nitro Cream ‘n Crumbz is a distinctive update to the traditional ice cream shop. Located at 422 Main St., this separate venue from Sicily Coal Fired Pizza features a scoop freshly made right before your eyes using liquid nitrogen and fresh cream sourced from Mountain Dairy in Storrs.
The quick freezing process creates smaller ice crystals while incorporating more air into the ice cream for a deliciously smooth, creamier texture.
Entering the shop, you’re greeted by the smell of baked fresh cookies and the spectacle of nitrogen ice cream being made to order.
“It’s elevated ice cream service,” Tony explains. “People love watching the smoke from the blenders as we make their ice cream. It’s fresh, it’s good, and it’s an experience.”
The ice cream and cookie menu changes regularly, tempting customers with something different and seasonal, he says.
“We change all the ice creams and cookies monthly, so there’s always something new to try.” For those with a sweet tooth, Nitro Cream ‘n Crumbz is more than just a place to grab dessert— it’s a destination where every visit feels like a special occasion.
The Wine Bar at Sicily Coal Fired Pizza is another exciting addition to Middletown’s dining scene, adjacent to
“People love watching the smoke from the blenders as we make their ice cream.”
the pizza restaurant, The Wine Bar offers a chic, intimate setting, complete with a Speakeasy in the basement.
The Wine Bar offers an impressive selection of 72 wines by the glass, thanks to a state-ofthe-art Coravin system that keeps each bottle as fresh as the day it was opened.
“It’s a unique offering,” says Tony. “It’s a great way to try a glass of wine when you might not want to commit to buying a whole bottle.”
Its menu complements the wine offerings, featuring six to eight small plates, a raw bar, and a charcuterie station with imported Italian meats and cheeses. There’s even a specialized slicer for precise charcuterie cutting, ensuring that every bite is perfection. From aged prosciutto to focaccia sandwiches, the food is crafted with the same care and attention to detail as the wine.
One of the standout features is the Speakeasy located in the Wine Bar basement. This secluded, stylish escape harkens back to the Prohibition era with its dim lighting, elegant décor, and handcrafted Prohibitionthemed cocktails.
In addition to these exciting new ventures, Sicily Coal Fired Pizza also offers extensive event space, making it an ideal location for private events of all kinds. From bridal showers to corporate gatherings, the restaurant’s various
rooms—including the newly added Wine Bar and Speakeasy—provide a versatile backdrop for any occasion.
With the capacity to host large groups, Sicily Coal Fired Pizza can accommodate up to 500 guests across its multiple venues, ensuring that every event is as memorable as the food.
Whether you’re planning a quiet Monday night out, looking for some weekend excitement with live music and a bustling atmosphere, or hosting a group event, Sicily Coal Fired Pizza has plenty to offer. With its expanded offerings, it’s not just a restaurant— it’s a destination in Middletown, where food, drink, and ambiance come together to create something truly unique.
SICILY COAL FIRED PIZZA & WINE BAR
412 Main St., Middletown
Phone: 860-788-2237
Online: Sicilycoalfiredpizza.com
On Facebook: @Sicilycoalfiredpizza
On Instagram: @SicilyMiddletown
NITRO CREAM N CRUMBZ
422 Main St., Middletown
Phone: 860-788-2951
Online: Nitrocreamncrumbz.com
On Social: @Nitrocreamncrumbz
GULJAN NURMURADOVA, LAC/OWNER
CYNDI RODRIQUEZ /LMT
DR.ANA ENGELHARDT/ND
ALISON LAROCCA /LAC
JACQUELINE FUSARI/LAC
CRYSTAL LANE/LAC
ARTICLE BY BRIAN BOYER | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JULIE BIDWELL
HOW SMALL STATE PROVISIONS IS CRAFTING COMMUNITY, ONE LOAF AT A TIME
YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD BAKERY
Kevin Masse takes one of his fresh-baked breads out of the oven
In an industry dominated by mass-produced goods, Small State Provisions – with locations in West Hartford and Avon - stands as a testament to the power of passion, quality, and community.
Small State Provisions initially gained traction by delivering freshly baked sourdough bread directly to people’s doors. The timing couldn’t have been more perfect, as the pan-
“ALMOST EVERYTHING WE DO IS ORGANIC, AND THAT’S A DIFFERENTIATOR FOR US.”
Founded by Kevin Masse in 2019, the bakery began as a humble cottage operation out of his home, with a mission to bring the art of sourdough bread to the heart of Connecticut.
Today, Small State Provisions has evolved into a thriving business with a 2,200-square-foot bakery and cafe at the Avon location, supplying top-tier restaurants with bread and winning the hearts of local residents.
Kevin’s journey into the food and hospitality industry wasn’t a matter of chance; it was a dream nurtured over years.
“I’ve always wanted to be in food and hospitality,” Kevin says, reflecting on his early days. When he moved to the area in 2016, he quickly connected with local clean-eating advocate Terry Walters, who became instrumental in his journey to mastering sourdough.
“We’re still using the same starter we began with back then,” Masse notes, underscoring the consistency and care that goes into every loaf.
demic had just begun, and the community was craving comfort in any form.
“I baked every single day during the pandemic,” says Masse.
His dedication went beyond just baking; Kevin delivered bread all over town, turning each delivery into a personal connection during challenging times.
Operating out of his home kitchen, Masse’s business grew rapidly. In July 2021, Small, State Provisions opened its first brick and mortar location inside West Hartford’s GastroPark.
It did not take long for Small State to outgrow this small space in West Hartford, leading to the addition of their to Avon bakery in 2023. The new location allowed Small State Provisions to scale up, add a full café menu and coffee bar while maintaining its commitment to quality.
Well-known local celebrity chef Tyler Anderson, Kevin says, has praised the bakery, saying, “They scaled up their products and never missed a beat.”
CONTINUED >
Kevin emphasizes the importance of cultivating a team that shares his passion for quality.
“We are very selective in who we bring onto the team,” he says. “Almost everything we do is organic, and that’s a differentiator for us. We’re passionate about the raw materials we use to produce our products.”
This commitment to excellence extends to the relationships they build, both with their suppliers and their customers.
One story that Masse recounts speaks to the impact Small State Provisions has on its community.
“A woman came in one weekend after having a rough morning. She told me that something one of our employees said made a difference for her. That’s the art of hospitality—making connections and leaving people feeling better than when they walked in,” he reflects.
Looking forward, Kevin is focused on growing Small State Provisions while staying true to its roots.
“We’re happy in Avon and love West Hartford. The question now is, how do we continue to make an impact where we are?”
Despite the growth, Masse remains hands-on, ensuring that the bakery’s mission and vision stay aligned. “I’m at the
A latte at Small State Provisions
Kevin Masse outside his bakery
“WE’RE
PASSIONATE ABOUT THE RAW MATERIALS WE USE.”
bakery every day, and I see the impact we have on the community,” he says.
Small State Provisions, Kevin says, is more than just a bakery; it’s a community hub, a place where quality, passion and hospitality come together to create something truly special.
“Every day is a new challenge, and we’re always learning. But at the end of the day, it’s about making connections with in the community and making our community a better place through intentional hospitality.”
SMALL STATE PROVISIONS
637 New Park Ave., West Hartford
205 Old Farms Road, Avon
Phone: 860-943-4148
Online: Smallstateprovisions.com
Email: Smallstateprovisions@gmail.com
On Socials: @Smallstate
A seasonal gluten-free pound cake with strawberry glaze.
One of the breakfast sandwiches served at Small State Provisions.
A Small State croissant with jam.
We’ve
Clients
FEMCARE MEDSPA
Empowering Women And Addressing Their Unique Health Needs
Julian Grant, a seasoned emergency department nurse with nearly two decades of experience, founded FemCare Medspa in West Hartford with a vision to create a space where women feel truly heard, understood, and empowered.
Located at 61 Raymond Road, FemCare Medspa evolved from Reboot Drip Therapy, operated by Julian in North Haven from 2022 until January 2024. This rebranding marked a significant expansion, transitioning from a focused IV therapy service to a comprehensive Medspa dedicated to holistic women’s intimate health and wellness.
“At FemCare Medspa, our mission is clear,” Julian says. “Empowering Women, Enhancing Wellness. We recognize that many women navigate changes in their bodies quietly, often feeling hesitant to discuss the transitions they experience—whether due to childbirth, aging, or other life stages.”
From frequent bathroom trips to discomfort, these concerns are common yet rarely discussed openly, she adds.
“Our goal at FemCare is to create a space where these conversations are welcomed, and where women feel comfortable seeking the services they need to maintain their vitality, confidence, and overall well-being.”
The spa’s offerings are as diverse as the women it serves. FemCare Medspa provides a range of advanced treatments designed to address these unique needs.
“We specialize in intimate health services using cutting-edge technology like the Empower RF by InMode platform. Our VTone treatment strengthens pelvic muscles and enhances comfort, helping women regain confidence and ease.”
“The Morpheus8V and Forma V therapies are central to our practice,” she adds. “We offer non-surgical solutions that rejuvenate and remodel tissues, supporting intimate
PHOTOGRAPHY BY CONNECTICUT HEADSHOTS
wellness and overall physical comfort. We also offer IV hydration and vitamin therapy, which revitalizes the body from the inside out, promoting better energy levels and overall health.”
FemCare’s medical aesthetics services, including RF Microneedling, Botox, and Kybella, help women feel as confident in their appearance as they do in their intimate health. Additionally, medical weight loss programs featuring treatments like Semaglutide and Tirzepatide are tailored to help clients achieve sustainable, healthy results under expert supervision.
Julian is joined in this mission by Tameka Hall Lee, a board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner with a strong background in emergency medicine, trauma care, and nursing education.
Tameka’s extensive training and experience ensure that every client at FemCare receives the highest standard of care. Her commitment to women’s health, combined with her expertise in advanced medical treatments, solidifies FemCare Medspa’s reputation as a leader in intimate health and wellness.
One client, reflecting on their experience with FemCare’s intimate health services, shared, “Julian made me feel very comfortable throughout the entire process. The results were life-changing—improved comfort, confidence, and overall well-being. FemCare is a place where you can truly feel rejuvenated, both physically and emotionally.”
FemCare Medspa offers a state-of-the-art atmosphere that blends modern elegance with warmth, creating a calming and welcoming environment. The spa’s design features a serene space that encourages relaxation and renewal, ensuring that every visit is as soothing as it is revitalizing.
“As a new addition to the West Hartford community, FemCare is proud to be a part of the West Hartford Chamber of Commerce and looks forward to becoming actively involved in local events and initiatives that promote health and wellness,” Julian says.
FemCare Medspa is committed to continuing its innovation and expansion, always striving to bring the latest in women’s intimate health and wellness services to our clients, she adds.
“Our vision is to not only provide exceptional care but to also become a trusted partner in every woman’s lifelong journey. At FemCare Medspa, we believe that every chapter in a woman’s story deserves to be lived fully and vibrantly, and we are here to support and navigate the journey with you.”
FEMCARE MEDSPA
61 Raymond Road, Suite 10, Phone: 860-970-4302
Online: Femcaremedspa.com
Email: Info@femcaremedspa.com
On Socials: @Femcaremedspa
SER VI NG UP S OUP
CHICKEN NOODLE SOUP
This hearty chicken noodle soup is the perfect comfort food that is packed with nutritious goodness. This pairs perfectly with homemade beer bread or a sourdough loaf.
INGREDIENTS:
• 8 cups chicken broth (add more if desired)
• Whole fryer chicken, cut in chunks or shredded
• 5 celery stalks, sliced
• 8 carrots, sliced
• ½ onion diced
• 4 tablespoons butter
• 1 teaspoon italian seasoning
• ¼ cup half and half (optional)
• 1 package egg noodles
• Salt and pepper to taste
DIRECTIONS:
In a large stock pot, add 8 cups of chicken broth. Dice carrots, celery and onion and add to the broth. Bring to a boil, and reduce to medium heat until the vegetables are soft. In the meantime, skin and cube 1 whole fryer chicken and add to the stock pot. Next, add egg noodles (frozen Reames homemade egg noodles are my favorite) and let boil until noodles are cooked. Add butter, half and half, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Simmer on low until ready to serve.
Fall’s most notable comfort meal
ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
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A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
OCTOBER 2ND
Reimagining Retirement by Embracing Your
The McAuley, 275 Steele Road | 1:00 PM
“Gold in Age”
Discover how to transform retirement into a time of growth and fulfillment. This 1-hour keynote challenges outdated notions, offering strategies to retire limiting beliefs and embrace new opportunities. Attendees will gain practical tools to redefine retirement as an exciting new beginning. Learn more at goldinage.com
OCTOBER 2ND
The Shark is Broken at Playhouse on Park
Playhouse on Park Theatre, 244 Park Road | 7:30 PM
Playhouse on Park presents The Shark is Broken, a “bitingly funny” comedy that centers on the making of the blockbuster film JAWS and the frustrations of its stars, Richard Dreyfuss, Roy Scheider and Robert Shaw, with constant filming delays because “the shark is broken!” The play runs through Oct. 20. Visit Playhouseonpark.org for tickets and times.
OCTOBER 5TH
Park Road Parade
Park Road, West Hartford | 10:30 AM
This one-of-a-kind community event has become a popular fall tradition and celebrates all that is special about the Park Road neighborhood over the last 25 years. Growing into a nearly year-long volunteer effort, parade organizers have decided to pause future parades after this year’s event and will instead focus on smaller events throughout the year. Visit Parkroadct.com for more information.
OCTOBER 19TH
Eversource Hartford Marathon
Connecticut State Capitol, 210 Capitol Ave., Hartford | 8:00 AM
The Eversource Hartford Marathon is 26.2 miles but it also includes a half-marathon (13.1 miles), or a 3.1 mile-run. Come cheer on your friends, listen to live music, and wait for the post-race party to start. Visit hartford.com for more information.
OCTOBER 19TH
Fall Foliage Tour
Cedar Hill Cemetery, 453 Fairfield Ave., Hartford | 10:00 AM
More than 2,000 trees representing 100 species and varieties grace the grounds of Cedar Hill Cemetery. John Kehoe leads this autumn walk highlighting a colorful sampling of the remarkable collection including maples, cherries, beeches, pines, cedars and more. Visit cedarhillfoundation.org for more information.
OCTOBER 26TH
Halloween Stroll
West Hartford Town Hall, 50 South Main St. | 10:30 AM
Costumed children of all ages are invited for a fun morning in West Hartford Center and Blue Back Square for the Annual Halloween Stroll on Saturday, Oct. 26 10:30 AM-12:30 PM. (Rain Date: Sunday, October 27). The event will be held on the front lawn of West Hartford Town Hall. Visit ctvisit.com for more information.
