Palette2014 single pg

Fashion & Arts issue of with bonus distribution Avon & Farmington

ART:

Everlasting Spring Blossoms at The Mercy Community

FASHION:

BK&CO Celebrates 20 years of Dressing Fabulous Women

COMMUNITY:

Archbishop has Charity in his Heart

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One of a kind, One at a time, Each by hand.

TRUNK SHOW Saturday, November 15 10:00am-5:00pm

Š 2014 John Hardy Limited

46 LaSalle Road, West Hartford 860-521-3015 LBGreen.com

2014

ON THE COVER “Everlasting spring in the secret garden,” a wall mural at Saint Mary's Home by artist, Tao LaBossiere. photography by AMY B. MELVIN

Fashion & Arts issue of West Hartford Magazine Publisher Thomas P. Hickey, II tomh@westhartfordmagazine.com Creative Director & COO Joy Brigham Taylor joyt@westhartfordmagazine.com Managing Editor Lisa Lelas editor@westhartfordmagazine.com Publication Designer Jennifer Inocencio graphics@westhartfordmagazine.com Marketing Consultants Michael Conway Taylor Tavarozzi www.We-Ha.com PALETTE is published by: WHMedia, Inc., P.O. Box 271835, West Hartford, CT 06127. ©2014 WHMedia, Inc. All rights reserved. No part of this periodical may be reproduced without express permission of the publisher. The opinions expressed by writers commissioned for articles published

by WHMedia, Inc. are not necessarily those of the magazine.

A leader committed to restoring prosperity in Connecticut.

Bill has a plan to:

Join our cause for a better Connecticut.

Endorsed by the Republican & Independent Parties

•

Bring responsible, common sense leadership to Hartford

•

Reduce the tax burden on working families

•

Cut wasteful spending and provide balanced, honest budgets

•

Provide safe communities and ensure every child has access to a quality education

•

Create an environment where private sector businesses can thrive and grow

PAID FOR BY WADSWORTH FOR STATE SENATE. WILLIAM J. BAKER, TREASURER. APPROVED BY BILL WADSWORTH.

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presents the 35th annual

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Museum Preschool Embarking on a new Journey A child flies to outer space. She is in an astronaut costume and fully convinced she is one.

During her journey into outer space, she reaches the International Space Station, and shares her stories with her fellow international peers as they orbit around earth. This child is exploring the world around her and there are no boundaries to what she can do and no obstacles to her imagination. We are born to be creative.

This experience and hundreds like it take place daily at The New Children’s Museum Preschool.

Fostering Creativity. . .

The Children’s Museum Preschool has a strong tradition of fostering creativity by giving every child a wide array of rich multi-sensory experiences to experiment and make discoveries.

Children explore with magnets, cultivate plants from seeds, observe live animals from the museum, and experience outer space.

High Standards. . .

The high educational standards of The New Children's Museum Preschool will prepare your child for lifelong learning success.

Guided by licensed, caring teachers—and with a curriculum backed by Connecticut’s early learning guidelines—children delve into the sciences, literacy, arts and humanities in a classroom setting and by visiting the museum's seven interactive exhibit spaces, wildlife sanctuary, planetarium and Roaring Brook Nature Center.

! y a d o T r e t s i Reg

Space available for the current school year and accepting applications for the 2015-2016 school year.

For More Information, contact: Wendy Hartling Head of Preschool whartling@thechildrensmuseumct.org 860.523.7449 950 Trout Brook Drive, West Hartford, CT 06119

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Immersive Learning Classrooms

Within our large, sunlit preschool classrooms, children explore and discover the wonders and processes of the surrounding world. These bright, colorful spaces provide a familiar and comfortable home environment that is ideally suited to their needs.

The children come to see the entire museum as their classroom. Each exhibit is designed specifically to be a learning device. By being engaged with the museum our preschoolers have the opportunity to learn from and build relationships with our experienced museum staff. Learning is richer and deeper if it’s authentic, resulting in the information retention of our students.

Our Misson

The New Children’s Museum Preschool inspires creativity, promotes self discovery, and nurtures an appreciation for lifelong learning. Our staff is committed to providing the highest quality early learning experience and the development of the individual child in areas of creativity, critical thinking, problem solving, independence, confidence, compassion, and empathy. We honor the child's sense of wonder and natural curiosity by providing hands-on experiences in our museum, classrooms as well as outdoors in the natural world at Roaring Brook Nature Center.

Meet Wendy - Head of Preschool

When she joined us in 2013, Wendy Hartling brought to the Children’s Museum Preschool her love of children and more than 25 years of experience in both teaching and educational administration. She received her B.S. in Elementary (PK – 8) from UConn, Neag School of Education, and is currently pursuing her M.Ed in the field of Instructional Design at Western Governors Univ. She has worked for school systems in Connecticut, as well as in Wisconsin. She has also taught adults, including GED and parenting classes in Hartford.

When the first years of life are filled with opportunities for creativity, children will develop important foundational skills, expand their problem-solving abilities and spark a passion for knowledge.

COURTESY OF NANO WORLD

A Journey Begins…

Preschool

Circa 1981

Circa 1986

Circa 1996

Circa 2005

Circa 2012

s r a e y 4 3 g n Celebrati Come to our Inventory Reduction

SALE!

Enter to WIN a Pre-Owned

Going on NOW during Customer Appreciation Days!

*

As we CELEBRATE 34 YEARS of serving all of your jewelry and gift needs we would like to personally THANK YOU for your loyalty and patronage.

To show our appreciation we invite you to our CUSTOMER APPRECIATION DAYS to enjoy deeply discounted prices as part of our inventory reduction sale.

Why an Inventory Reduction Sale?

Because we are proud to announce that effective October 1st we will be preparing our nephew Jesse to take over the reigns! He needs to make room for new inventory! Monarch Jewelers will continue to be here to help your next generation pick out an engagement ring, reset a family heirloom to match their personal style, find that special pre-owned luxury watch, etc. Of course Jesse will have Debbie (Angela’s sister) and Gina (Jesse’s sister) by his side to serve you and we take great comfort in knowing that our legacy will live on in the family business we built.

Jesse has lots of plans so please stop in and we’ll tell you more.

Photo by Christine Petit

Lee & Angela

Monarch jewelers 838 Farmington Avenue, Farmington 860.679.7700 monarchjewelers.com

“Like” us on Facebook

*Go to Monarch Jewelers in September and enter to win a Pre-Owned Rolex – Monarch Jewelers is not an authorized dealer of any luxury watch mentioned or pictured. Authenticity is guaranteed or your money back. Ask for details in store. Entries due by 9/30/14. we-ha.com ISSUE NO. 3 2014 palette

TRAVEL

Glamorous camping adventures await!

R

ecently, a global trend has caught fire, offering outdoor enthusiasts an upgrade on rest and recreation. It’s called “glamping”, a new word for a new kind of travel, defined as glamorous camping. When you’re glamping, there’s no tent to pitch, no sleeping bag to unroll, no fire to build. Whether in a tent, yurt, airstream, hut, villa or treehouse, glamping is a way to experience the great outdoors without sacrificing luxury. For those of you who have been on safari in Africa and stayed in a tented safari camp you will have somewhat of an idea of what it’s all about.

Glamping is a fusion of glamour and camping and has emerged globally and has come across the Atlantic over the last decade. Both independent properties and global hospitality brands have capitalized on a jettisoning demand for travelers who want to experience the positive aspects of camping without the ‘uncomfortable’ negatives. Glamping pivots on a high level of service that focuses on complete comfort

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for guests. The amenities found at glamping destinations far exceed anything that recreational campers experience.

Glamping options run the gamut from tents, to over the water bungalows, to huts, pods, cubes, tree-houses, airstreams, jungle lodges and more. Let me give you a little insight into the accommodations.

Tents: Glamping tents are a far cry from the do-it-yourself tent in a bag. They offer amenities like comfortable beds and in some cases ensuite bathroom facilities.

Everything is set up for you. There is no tent to pitch. All you have to do is relax and enjoy the unique experience provided by these luxury tents.

Villas & Huts: Whether you choose overwater glamping huts in the Maldives, a cottage in Indonesia or a beachfront glamping villa in New Zealand or Figi, there is a stellar collection of glamping accommodations. Staying in a glamping hut or villa will provide you with an opportunity to commune with nature while enjoying pure luxury.

Pod & Cubes: Many glamping destina-

tions around the world have come up with unique, yet luxurious eco-friendly pods and cubes to serve as guest accommodations. These glamping pods and cubes give travelers an opportunity to have a singular experience amidst the surrounding nature.

From unique eco domes to cubes with an architectural flare, many properties have embraced the glamping concept and created special dwellings unique to their properties.

Yurts & Teepees: Along with luxury tents, yurts have always been amongst the most popular glamping accommodations.

Yurts were first used by Central Asian nomads and the design has been resurrected by many properties looking to offer a unique accommodation that doesn’t leave a carbon footprint.

Tree-house & Airstreams: Glamping in tree-houses or airstreams are definitely a one-of-a-kind experience. Imagine a luxurious dwelling perched amongst the timbers of Vermont or Switzerland with amenities only matched by the views. Or, imagine taking up residency in a restored vintage Airstream along the Santa Barbara

photography by THE RESORT AT PAWS UP

by Lydia Brown

coast. For your next (or first) glamping trip, consider a tree-house or airstream.

Eco & Safari Lodges: Glamping lodges are the perfect way to experience nature while still having four walls and a ceiling.

These unique destinations from Maine to Nepal have carefully constructed the ideal dwellings for their properties, allowing guests to stay in complete luxury while still developing an up-close-and-personal relationship with the surrounding nature.

Cabineering: Cabineering is a new travel trend that is now offered by many luxury properties. These luxury cabins give adventure travelers the comforts of home and the special amenities of a luxury hotel in some of the most remote and breathtaking areas around the globe. It’s a cozy way to have a memorable, experiential vacation.

Glamping has been a burgeoning travel trend in North America for the past eight years with a variety of unique locations and accommodations to choose from. One of my favorites here in the United States is the Resort at Paws Up (http://www.pawsup. com) located in Greenbough, Montana.

This is considered a luxury tent and features five glamping camps that cater to families, couples and groups. Each glamping tent features an en suite bathroom, The Last Best Bed®, chic rustic furnishings, art-adorned walls, electricity, cooling fans, heat and, most importantly, a camping butler! It’s nature served on a silver platter.

If you really want to be impressed, take a look at their website although photos can’t

really do it justice. Whether you’re an experienced rider or you’ve never been horseback riding before, you’ll lay eyes on sight after sight of historical and breathtaking visions during your unforgettable Montana horseback riding excursion. Junior wrangler programs for kids, customized lessons, cattle work, and roping are available here at Montana’s largest private equestrian center, The Saddle Club at Paws Up. Or try your hand running and sorting cattle with an authentic cattle drive.

There is a budget for everyone and glamping resorts are located throughout the United States and around the world.

For more information on these and other glamping facilities please contact me at Sanditz Travel. Happy Glamping! n

Lydia Brown lbrown@sanditz.com Sanditz American Express Travel West Hartford (860) 523-5224

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MISTAKES CAN COST YOU That’s why you need to request your must-read, free copy of “The Eight Biggest Mistakes Investors Make...

And How to Avoid Them.”

This guide, published by Ken Fisher, CEO of Fisher Investments, is filled with practical information you can use to keep your investments on track.

Investing in securities involves the risk of loss.

CALL ME NOW FOR YOUR FREE GUIDE! Paul Stancs – Regional Vice President

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p.stancs@fi.com http://paul-stancs.fisherinvestments.com

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5525 NW Fisher Creek Boulevard, Camas, WA 98607

Art Meets Therapy A section of the 2,000 square foot “Secret Garden” mural.

Everlasting Spring Blossoms at The Mercy Community

by Christine M. Looby photography by Lanny Nagler and Amy Melvin

L

isa Ciotto planted a seed that grew into West Hartford’s “Secret Garden.” As a therapist working in Saint Mary Home’s short-term rehabilitation unit, Lisa sent The Mercy Community’s administrators a letter in the spring of 2013, asking that something be done about the courtyard facing the Therapy Gym. She explained that the outdoor space’s nine-foot-high cement retaining wall was problematic for residents with low vision, cataracts or macular degeneration: its glare tended to cause confusion about the weather conditions outside, no matter the season.

“Over the years,” Lisa wrote, “I have often wished I could find someone who would be willing to paint a mural on that wall that gives life, brightness, and something to start a conversation.”

Bill Fiocchetta, president and CEO of The Mercy Community, brought Lisa’s letter to the June 2013 meeting of its Board’s Marketing & Development Committee.

Jill Adams, principal/CEO of Adams & Knight in Avon and chair of the committee, remembers the excitement Lisa’s query generated. “We encouraged Bill’s team to draft a request for proposals and to send it to all of the Connecticut artists and arts organizations they could find. A few months later, when we reviewed Tao LaBossiere’s concept, we felt he truly had a vision for

what this could be. Instead of suggesting a painting for a wall, he was offering to build a retreat for our residents,” Jill said. “It’s the very essence of art meeting therapy.”

Hartford artist Tao LaBossiere’s winning proposal was called “Everlasting Spring in the Secret Garden.” In the style of trompe l’oeil, it transforms white cement into a stunning stonewall, complete with flora and fauna that slowly, surprisingly reveal themselves. “I wanted something that people could come back to again and again,” Tao said, “each time, finding something they didn’t see when they last looked.” From April until August 2014, Tao and a group of eight assistants brought the courtyard to life with ladybugs, hydrangea, a peacock… and even a bronze sculpture inspired by Frances Hodgson Burnett’s novel The Secret Garden.

On August 14, The Mercy Community opened its own “Secret Garden” with a reception celebrating Tao LaBossiere’s artistry and the generosity of lead benefactors Barbara O. Hetrick, a resident of The McAuley, and Frances B. Sergi and

Family of West Hartford. In his remarks, Bill Fiocchetta explained the importance of seniors – particularly those experiencing memory disorders – living with art and engaging in art therapy activities.

“Experts in memory care and therapeutic recreation are – with increasing frequency – documenting success stories with the use of art therapy. Activities like painting and listening to music can meet with astonishing results among the population living with Alzheimer’s disease and related dementia. Individuals who may not be responsive to social cues or conversation sometimes have visceral reactions when handed a paintbrush or fitted with an iPod. Doctors tell us that as Alzheimers attacks the brain, it often does so in such a way that it sabotages areas like short-term memory first, but will not affect the creative center until much later,” Bill said. He added: “This project has blended our desire to surround those entrusted to our care with the beauty of nature, the beauty of art, and the beauty of science well applied.” n

Barbara O. Hetrick, a benefactor for the “Secret Garden” project and a resident of The McAuley, with Bill Fiocchetta, president and CEO of The Mercy Community at the opening reception for the project.

Frances B. Sergi of West Hartford, a benefactor for the “Secret Garden” project, with Bill Fiocchetta, president and CEO of The Mercy Community at the opening reception for we-ha.com ISSUE NO. 3 2014 palette the project.

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Help&Hope www.ccaoh.org

The Magazine of Catholic Charities

Archdiocese of Hartford

Summer 2014

Vol. 8 / No. 1

THE DEFINING PHOTO

Archbishop has “Catholic charity” in his heart

INSIDE: MANSELL @ IHF • SAVE THE DATE FOR GOLF • BLAIR AT MRS

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cover story

Archbishop has “Catholic charity” in his heart

BY KEITH GRIFFIN

A

Archbishop Leonard P. Blair reads to children at the Southside Family Center in Hartford.

people last year. There is also Matthew 25, a program of Catholic Charities, that provides aid to Northwest Catholic and East Catholic High School students from individuals or foundations willing to support four years of education. The program identifies gifted students and monitors their progress throughout their high school experience.

Early childhood education starts even before children enter formal schools. The Archbishop recently toured the Southside Family Center in Hartford to see the Jumpstart to Kindergarten program first hand. It is one of ten such centers in the Hartford Archdiocese that offer activities aimed at enhancing literacy to help close the achievement gap by preparing children for success in school. The key element of the programs is the involvement of parents in their children’s education. They also offer a culturally competent and comprehensive approach to the development and enhancement of the family—one that focuses on activities that reinforce parent-child bonding. Children with special needs are also welcome.

Archbishop Leonard P. Blair met Northwest Catholic senior and Matthew 25 recipient Marlon Bailey. we-ha.com ISSUE NO. 3 2014

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Help&Hope • Summer 2014 • Catholic Charities

THE DEFINING PHOTO

rchbishop Leonard Blair’s commitment to the mission of Catholic Charities, both the organization and the practice of Catholic charity, is grounded in his role as head of the Archdiocese of Hartford. He sees his role as a teacher of faith and paramount to the Catholic faith is charitable good works.

We had the pleasure of introducing the Archbishop to our staff and spent a recent morning showing him some of our facilities and programs. We couldn’t tell who had more fun, us, the Archbishop or the children. “Knowing how valuable his time is, we were honored he witnessed, first hand, the beneficiaries of his programs,” said Chief Executive Officer of Catholic Charities Lois Nesci.

Since commencing his role as Archbishop in December, he has spent his time getting to know the charitable outreach of the Archdiocese, funded in great part by the Archbishop’s Annual Appeal.

“I was very impressed with the Hartford Archdiocese,” he said. “The Archbishop’s Annual Appeal, for example, is remarkably generous on the part of Catholic people. That includes a whole array of Catholic Charities outreach services and other charitable activities. Certainly the people today who are practicing their faith and coming to church have never been more generous. Not only with their contributions but also with their time and talent.

“Catholic Charities also relies on grants and other help for its work. Archbishop Mansell was fond of pointing out that after the federal government the Catholic Church is the largest provider of social services in the country,” he added.

Archbishop Blair also considers education an integral part of the Church’s mission, but one that many parents find difficult because of the cost. The Archbishop’s Annual Appeal has a tuition assistance program that helped more than 1700

“At Catholic Charities,” Archbishop Blair said, “our goal is to promote the highest standards of excellence in early childhood education as well as to strengthen the whole family through additional educational and support services.” Three hundred and fifty children are getting the early childhood education they wouldn’t have received if it were not for Catholic Charities. Parents who once struggled when it came to their children’s development are actively participating in their education, without the worry of having to pay for preschool.

Archbishop Blair is also committed to assisting recent immigrants resettled in the Archdiocese. “We want to be very attentive to helping them. Since Catholics in the past were all immigrants, the Church was an integral part of their integration and success in society and their contribution to society.

Certainly with recent immigrants, we want to be able to do the same,” he said.

The Migration, Refugee and Immigration Services program of Catholic

The Southside Family Center in Hartford had a few special visitors recently. Lois Nesci and Archbishop Blair felt welcomed by the teachers and children and even received an invitation to go fishing!

Charities in the Archdiocese has helped resettle over 6,000 refugees in the Hartford area since its inception in 1975. The program sets an employment rate of 75 percent within the first four months of a refugee’s arrival.

The program offers comprehensive immigration and naturalization support services as well as clinical and case man-

agement services to individuals who have suffered from sexual and/or employment trafficking, both domestically and internationally. �

You can read an extended version of this interview by visiting westhartfordmagazine.com

Community Room Dedicated to Archbishop Emeritus Henry J. Mansell Archbishop Emeritus Henry J. Mansell has a room named after him at the Institute for the Hispanic Family on Wadsworth Street, Hartford. On a cool day in March, seniors and children from the classrooms gathered for the naming ceremony.

Chief Executive Officer of Catholic Charities Lois Nesci thanked Archbishop Mansell for his support of the Catholic Charities mission and vision during his term as the Archbishop of Hartford. � � Elba Cruz Schulman, a member of the Institute for the Hispanic Family Advisory Board and former chair, spoke on behalf of the Institute.

�

The plaque which will be on permanent display in the community room named for Archbishop Emeritus Henry J. Mansell.

J. B. TAYLOR

� Two children who attend the Early Learning Center at the Institute for the Hispanic Family presented Archbishop Emeritus Mansell with a special collage of photographs from the center.

Help&Hope • Summer 2014 • Catholic Charities

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Please Save the Dates!

Catholic Charities Archdiocese of Hartford

Vision: Individuals, Families and Communities will become Healthy, Self-Sufficient and Productive – Thriving in a Just and Compassionate Society.

Mission: Motivated by Christ’s Social Teachings and Respect for the Richness of Diversity, Catholic Charities exists to Promote the Dignity, Self-Sufficiency and Human Potential of those in need.

The 22nd Annual Archbishop John F. Whealon Memorial Golf Tournament Tuesday, September 23, 2014 at Wampanoag Country Club in West Hartford, CT. 9th Annual Help & Hope Breakfast Friday, December 12, 2014 at the Marriott Hartford Downtown.

Visit our website: www.ccaoh.org

Help&Hope The Newsletter of Catholic Charities Archdiocese of Hartford 839-841 Asylum Avenue, Hartford, CT 06105 Phone 860-493-1841 Fax 860-548-1930 www.ccaoh.org Vol. 8/ No. 1 • Summer 2014 Catholic Charities Executive Offices: Lois M. Nesci, Chief Executive Officer Marek Kukulka, Chief of Operations Edgar Bernier, Chief Financial Officer

KEITH GRIFFIN AND TIFFANY MURASSO

�

� Jerry Franklin, CEO of Connecticut Public Television, Master of Ceremonies of the 8th Annual Help & Hope Breakfast, Webster Bank Presenting Sponsor, with Kyle Parrish, Fatherhood Program testimonial speaker and his son, Karter, and Lois Nesci, CEO of Catholic Charities Lois Nesci with Christopher M. Dadlez, President and CEO of Saint Francis Care, Help and Hope Awardee at the Breakfast.

Help&Hope Magazine: Published by WHMedia, Inc. Tom Hickey, Publisher Joy Taylor, Creative Services Keith Griffin, Contributing Writer The Defining Photo, Keith Griffin, Tiffany Murasso, J.B. Taylor, Contributing Photographers Help&Hope is published jointly by Catholic Charities, Archdiocese of Hartford, and WHMedia, Inc. It is distributed to the communities it serves in Hartford, Litchfield and New Haven Counties via mail and drops. ©2014 Catholic Charities and WHMedia, Inc. All rights reserved. No part of this periodical may be reproduced without express permission of the publishers. Help&Hope is a registered trademark owned by WHMedia, Inc. The opinions expressed by writers commissioned for articles published by Help&Hope are not necessarily those of the magazine or its publishers.

Community Partner

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4 • Help&Hope • Summer 2014 • Catholic Charities

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FASHION

a Celebration of

Milestones.

by Guest Style Editors Barbara Karsky and Karen Herbert photography by Cheyney Barrieau Photography Time flies when you love what you do; or, when you are dressing fabulous women!

At BK&CO, we get to do both, and this year marks our 20th year in West Hartford Center dressing fabulous women – women who embody confidence, integrity, style and compassion.

It’s a privilege to do business in such a vibrant, colorful town, surrounded by successful, small businesses that operate with the same passion and commitment to service and quality that we have at BK&CO. Our objective for these September style pages was to share our 20th anniversary celebration in our favorite West Hartford Center spaces, with iconic West Hartford women (and a few men!), and bring you 20 fashion trends for Fall 2014.

Fashion is all about interpretation. This fall take a bold perspective. It’s a season of color and texture and glorious digital prints. Even black and white looks more adventurous!

We know that when a woman looks and feels her best, she is a force – unstoppable, unforgettable, and undeniable. This fall elevate your look to a signature style. Embrace fashion. Be a trendsetter.

Now is your time…

to be fabulous!

Hair and make-up provided by:

36 LaSalle Road, 2nd Fl. West Hartford Center 860-206-4552 toplevelsalon.com Elise O'Mara, Owner Yolee Ayala, Make-up Artist Michelle Small, Hair Stylist we-ha.com ISSUE NO. 3 2014

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Fall Fashion

20

Forecast

Must-Have Trends:

1. Black and White: classic, but with a modern twist – think graphic

2. Digital Floral/ Landscape Prints: printed on everything from silk to scuba 3. More Polka Dots: retro dots are literally popping up everywhere

4. Cobalt: bright vivid blue is the hue 5. Faux Leather Trim: the best accent for fall – it’s washable!

6. Statement Jewelry: attention-grabbing bold, colorful, chunky accessories 7. Mixed Patterns and Texture: feisty, fearless, and totally fab…mix it all

8. Cozy, Oversized Sweaters: the bigger the better worn over lean bottoms 9. Color-Block and Stripes: linear and spirited combinations of color

10. Plaid: we are always mad for plaid, but this year we’re insane!

11. Novelty Leggings / Skinny Pants: add lace, pleather, zippers, rivets

12. Vibrant Color: cheeky, brazen, gutsy color – be impactful!

13. Retro Prints: a nod to nostalgia; especially in sophisticated neutrals

14. Geometric Designs: modern geometry 101 15. Neutral Palettes: focus on camels and charcoals

16. Mixed Metal Accessories: takes neutrals from bland to glam!

17. DRESSES! So many choices, too few occasions!

18. L.B.D.’S: this year “B” stands for Blue: Little Blue Dress; preferably midnight blue 19. Sparkle/ Bling: dazzling accents for evening, for everything!

20.

Expressive Eyeware: Uber retro or geek chic; it’s your most visible accessory *******CENTRAL OPTICA W.H. MAG AD 9/2 SELECTED:Layout 1 9/3/14 9:30 AM Page 1

33 Lasalle Road, West Hartford

860 • 236 • 2329

for those with a unique point of view.

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FASHION

BK&CO Staff: Margaret Romeo, Deb Bannon, Luanne Gaudet, Barbara Karsky, Karen Herbert, Joan Shapiro, and Ulla Trotter.

All outfits from Joseph Ribkoff, Sympli and I.C. Collection, BK&CO. To West Hartford residents... thank you to all pedestrians and motorists for accomodating us during this photo shoot. We apologize if we inconvenienced you in any way while managing traffic control. we-ha.com ISSUE NO. 3 2014

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FASHION

Go Bold.

Amy Samaan, Eyeware Stylist, Central Optica, left: Digital landscape printed silk jacket from Citron; black tank and arc skirt from Sympli; Resin necklace from Angela Caputi, BK&CO. Glasses from , Central Optica Shevon Hickey, Principal St Brigid’s School, right: Memory wire collar top in okra and pant in charcoal from Porto; Chunky necklace, Charlotte Meyer Designs, Mix metal belt, Sandy Dufler, BK&CO.

Gems of West Hartford. (Opposite Page) Pamela Rosin, owner, Philip David Jewelers, left: Satin Dot top and straight pant, Comfy, BK&CO Rosie DeRobertis, co-owner, DeRobertis Jewelers, center: Sympli Tidal drape tee and drop ankle pant, BK&CO; Nina Nguyen turquoise necklace in sterling and 22K gold, DeRobertis Jewelers. Chair compliments of LCR. Norma Green, co-owner, Lux Bond, & Green, right: Mixed media faux leather trimmed zip jacket and pencil skirt from Joseph Ribkoff, BK&CO. Left Inset: Mixed elements necklace with pearls and precious stones set in 24K gold and oxidized sterling from ARA Collection, Philip David Jewelers.

Middle Inset: Ippolita yellow stardust open pear-shaped drop earrings with .83ct diamonds and 33� 18K yellow classic layer chain with varied round and oval 1.2mm wire links, Lux Bond & Green.

Right Inset: Bracelet : Silver and 22K gold, one of a kind cuff bracelet by Mischou set with garnet, peridot, amethyst and topaz, DeRobertis Jewelers.

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Autumn Hues.

Amy Samaan, Eyeware Stylist, Central Optica, left: Woven stripe lambswool 2 pocket cardigan from Indigenous, Sympli tank, BK&CO, Glasses, Central Optica.

Rosie DeRobertis, co-owner, DeRobertis Jewelers, center: Asymmetrical boiled wool sweater with pin closure from Beyond Threads, white pima cotton blouse from Eliot Lauren, BK&CO. Ronit Shoham, Community Volunteer and Fund-Raiser spearheading The Undergrounds, The Miracle League, Jonathan’s Dream and Cut Out Cancer to name a few. Hand-knit color block cardy sweater from Amy Brill, statement necklace from Charlotte Meyer Designs, BK&CO. Necklace Inset: Multi strand gold-plated tubular and rubber necklace from Zzan Jewelry, BK&CO.

Crazy for Comfort! (opposite page)

Stephanie Blozy, owner, Fleet Feet Sports, left: Artisanal cardigan sweater in jewel tones from IVKO, Liverpool skinny jean, Escape from Paris necklace, BK&CO; hyper pink Nike zoom Pegasus 31 sneakers, Fleet Feet Sports.

MJ Daswani, co-owner, Dasawni Clothiers, center: Vertical textured sweater from Mirto and Heritage dark wash jean, Daswani Clothiers.

RenĂŠe McCue, Town of West Hartford Public Relations Specialist, right: Handcrafted sweater jacket in plaid and floral combination from IVKO, plum microfiber and faux leather legging from Lysse, BK&CO.

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FASHION

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FASHION

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Nostalgic Neutrals. (Opposite page)

from left to right: Shari Cantor, West Hartford Deputy Mayor: Sympli Envy top and Diva legging, BK&CO Roxanne Stochelek, Director, West Hartford Art League: Retro printed tunic with scarf, best fitting black skinny pant from Lisette, toggle necklace from Escape from Paris, BK&CO. Alysia Chrosniak, West Hartford Art League: Chevron and stripe cardigan from Beyond Threads, Aztec inspired chunk necklace from Charlotte Meyer Designs, Brown python skinny pant from Elliott Lauren, BK&CO. Ronit Shoham, Community Volunteer and Fund-Raiser spearheading The Undergrounds, The Miracle League, Jonathan’s Dream and Cut Out Cancer: Asymmetrical jacket in pale latte from I.C Collection, dream pant from Sympli, BK&CO Shevon Hickey, Principal St Brigid’s School: Geometric tunic in neutrals from I.C. Collection, arc pencil skirt from Sympli, BK&CO.

Outdoor dining in West Hartford Center is always in vogue!

Mixed Metal Accessories Top Inset: Silver and gold plated tubular necklace on leather, Zzan Jewelry, BK&CO. Center Inset: African jasper wood with white turquoise slices, Charlotte Meyer Designs, BK&CO. Bottom Inset: Belt: Mixed metal stretch belt from Sandy Duffler, BK&CO. Special thanks to AVERT on LaSalle Road for their venue and hospitality, and to Hugo (the dog) and Mark, (his owner) for their cooperation.

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FASHION

Blue is the new Black!

Shevon Hickey, Principal St Brigid’s School: Midnight blue shimmer stretch taffeta off the shoulder dress from Joseph Ribkoff, BK&CO; Sunglasses, Face a Face - Model: Poppy 1 (Black and Tortoise/ Brown Gradient Lens), Central Optica.

Shawn Fongemie, Executive Director, West Hartford/Tri Town YMCA. Mens Sunglass: Robert Marc - Model: 756-320 (Gunmetal Frame/ Grey Polarized Lens), Central Optica.

Shari Cantor, West Hartford Deputy Mayor: Black and white color block dress from Joseph Ribkoff, Mother of pearl shell choker, BK&CO From left to right: (opposite page) Judy Casperson, West Hartford Town Councilor and Branch Manager, Webster Bank: Glamour dress in stretch taffeta from Joseph Ribkoff in midnight blue, BK&CO, Alysia Chrosniak, West Hartford Art League: Paprika sleeveless cocktail dress from Joseph Ribkoff, Drama necklace from Zzan Jewelry, BK&CO Pamela Rosin, owner, Philip David Jewelers: Matte jersey faux wrap dress from Jospeh Ribkoff in sapphire, BK&CO Renee McCue, Town of West Hartford Public Relations Specialist: Navy blue lace dress from Joseph Ribkoff, BK&CO; Pearl bracelet and necklace, DeRobertis Jewelers Special thanks to GRANTS for their venue and hospitality.

Stunning Accessories:

Top Inset: Bangle bracelet assortment from ARA Collection and Lika Behar, Turkish designers, in 24K and oxidized sterling, Philip David Jewelers Second Inset: Tag Heuer Carrera Calibre 36 Chronograph Flyback with sapphire crystal, 100 meter, Lux Bond & Green. Mens Sunglass: Robert Marc - Model: 756-320 (Gunmetal Frame/ Grey Polarized Lens).

Third Inset: Beautifully matched oval 36.60ct sapphire and 8.35ct diamond necklace, vs2/G necklace, Lux, Bond & Green Bottom Inset: David Yurman oval lavender amethyst and hematine ring with diamond bezel, .71 ct set in sterling silver, Lux Bond & Green.

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GARDEN

Ornamental Garden Edibles.

Fruit in the Flower bed? Veggies in the Boxwood? Everyone’s Doing it!

L

photography by ISTOCKPHOTO.COM

by Karla A. Dalley

ately, the gardening “buzz” has been all about edible landscaping. And while many of us have been growing edibles for years (my first gardens were vegetable gardens), not everyone wants to dig up a piece of the lawn to have a dedicated spot for vegetables. Luckily that’s no longer necessary or even desirable.

For one thing, vegetables grow better when they’re pollinated. So, if you already have a spot where you’re growing flowers, that’s a great place for a few vegetables! The same pollinators that visit your flowers will find the edibles and get to work on those too.

Keep in mind, vegetables and herbs like the same conditions…the sun. That’s one of the reasons you’ll often find front yard vegetable gardens in New England…so many of us garden under trees in the shade that we have no other place to put a few tomato plants (or other veggies) that we want to grow! Most vegetables need at least six hours of sun to grow and produce well, so the flower border (or other sunny spot) is best.

Before you start planting, however, make certain that you treat your flower-beds organically this season. Don’t grow your own veggies and herbs if you’re treating with chemicals and pesticides--or if there will be run-off from your lawn or drift from a nearby spray you apply to a shrub. Many are not safe for edibles. Find a different place, or plant in a container.

Many folks still think of huge gangly tomatoes and large sprawling trellises of peas, beans and other vegetables when they think of growing edibles so the thought of ‘tucking’ anything like that into a tidy ornamental border might just bring nightmares.

Nothing can be further from the truth!

As with many other plants, the breeders have been working on vegetables as well. They have bred them to make them more colorful…not only because this makes them ornamental, but because, in many instances, this makes them more nutritious as well. Peppers come in red, yellow and ‘chocolate’ varieties and the hot varieties have the advantage of sometimes having all three colors on the same plant at the same time. Even tomatoes come in compact packages as anyone who has grown ‘patio’ or container varieties knows.

Leaf lettuces make wonderful borders and come in fabulous textures and colors.

The leaf colors range from light to very dark green to chartreuse and there are reds, maroons and even speckled varieties.

Tuscan Kale, also called ‘Dinosaur Kale’ after the strange appearance it takes on as it is harvested, is a great heirloom vegetable that is also good for you. These can be inter-planted with parsley and other herbs like thyme and oregano, which come in several different leaf colors, as well.

Consider planting a whole container of herbs. It will be one of the most carefree containers you’ll ever plant…no deadheading required, except to keep the herbs from flowering…and any cutting back you do will allow you to throw sprigs on the grill, use in summer salads or in quick summer dishes.

I’m never without several pots of herbs just outside my kitchen door. There’s a pot of fine-leaf basil…easier for cooking than the larger leafed kind and easier to keep in a pot, a pot of chives for chicken salad, a pot

of parsley for salad, and a mixed pot of other herbs--rosemary, thyme, lavender--which usually changes from year to year.

If you prefer to grow something a little different, try some fruit. This year I’m adding blueberry bushes. I’m choosing ‘Tophat’ because it’s supposed to be a self-pollinator, although I’ll add more than one (because I’ll be sharing with the birds).

These are dwarf shrubs that should stay about 2’ tall and they have a fabulous red color in the fall--the color is almost as red as burning bush.

I already have alpine strawberry plants in several places. These are tiny strawberries--not even dime sized--but delicious. I highly recommend them.

Even apple trees have come down to size. About ten years ago, breeders came up with something called ‘columnar’ apples.

The trees grow straight up and down, in a column. You do need two for cross pollination but each will stay under ten feet tall and five feet wide…quite a difference from the full sized trees that are easily three times that size or more.

Edible plants can add variety, color and delicious choice to your ornamental beds and borders. Don’t be afraid to incorporate some into your gardens this year! Happy gardening! n Karla Dalley is a garden writer and speaker from West Hartford. kdalley@comcast.net. gardendaze.wordpress.com we-ha.com ISSUE NO. 3 2014

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New Park Commerce Center The PlayGround. Remember when the world was your playground? The driving theme behind the fitness training at The PlayGround is

Lisa Matias Dance Centre

PLAY. The PlayGround offers programs for adults and children. The exercise programs are safe, demanding, bio-mechanically sound, and fun! Opening soon: Adaptive Movement Parkour. Here’s to a lifetime of regular exercise and good health. www.thefitplayground.com 860-236-8800

The Karen Elizabeth Salon & Academy is committed to bringing top quality education in the field of cosmetology to students from all walks of life. As a small, hands-on academy the students not only learn the skill needed to be successful hair stylists, but they learn how to make their client’s look and feel beautiful from the inside out. Interested in using our Salon services? Contact us today to schedule your hair appointment with our experience staff or students. www.KarenElizabethSalonandAcademy.com. 860-232-0212

ÜberDog, Dog Playcare and Hotel is West Hartford’s premier dog daycare and boarding house. Let your dog have it’s day! This is a super-dog playcare that was born out of necessity. Dan, the Founder/Owner of ÜberDog, wanted to make sure all dogs have the ability to be dogs when a day care or extended care is needed. ÜberDog is a safe, clean, friendly environment. The trained employees (called “Wagologists”®)make sure every dog is safe and having the very best time. www.myuberdog.com. 860-236-8237

PHOTO BY

IRA NOZI

K

Lisa Matias Dance Centre has been providing quality dance education in West Hartford for 30 years with a focus on technique, performance, and character development. Students thrive in a supportive, non-competitive and empowering atmosphere. We offer a variety of developmentally appropriate classes encouraging personal growth. Our studio is where all dancers are inspired to meet their full potential in a joyous environment. (New: Zumba & Aerial Yoga.) www.LisaMatiasDanceCentre.com. 860-569-2205

635 New Park Avenue West Hartford 06110

Visit

Be on the lookout for the 2014 Elmwood Guide!

Everything Elmwood all in one convenient place!

Participating businesses, so far, include:

•Dr. Rick Liftig, Dentist •Corner Pug/Tapas •Sheehan Hilborn Breen •Sliders Bar & Grill •Cora Cora •Mayflower Corner Plaza: Bristle and Blade Barber Cafe Louise XES Beauty Lounge Save the Date: Second Annual Taste of Elmwood is Thursday February 5th

www.elmwoodct.com

“Everything Elmwood!” is the website of the Elmwood Business Association of West Hartford, Connecticut.

For more current news, check out our Facebook page.

The Art of

Outdoor Living

by Jeff Hodges

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Contact us for: Landscaping Yard Renovations Shrubs & Trees Lawns Stairs & Stoops

Outdoor Entertainment Areas Patios / Walks / Walls Fireplaces Residential Property Maintenance Masonry services

860-986-4282 • www.JeffHodgesLandscapeContractor.com we-ha.com ISSUE NO. 3 2014

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P. O. Box 271835 West Hartford, CT 06127

Build this Fall...

Swim next Spring

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