West Hartford Magazine - Winter 2024/25 v1

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FROM THE DESK OF THE PUBLISHER

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CHAMBER NEWS

13 WEDDING 20 FINANCE 22 TRAVEL & DINING 24 GARDENING 28 MENS FASHION 31 WOMENS FASHION

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A WEHA NIGHT TO REMEMBER

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Happy New Year, Wow, 2024 was a year full of special Anniversaries (we-ha.com’s 10th Anniversary, the Best of West Hartford’s 10th Anniversary and West Hartford Magazines 25th Anniversary) culminating this year with the 95th Anniversary of the JEWISH LEDGER.

Worth sharing are the photos (Todd Fairchild) and Videos (Nild Sansone), see page 16!

We celebrated at the Mandell Jewish Community Center by having a special entertainment portion of the BOWH brought to you by ARTHUR MURRAY DANCE (sponsored by Northstar Wealth Partners)… a local version of “Dancing with the Stars” we called “Dancing with WeHa Stars!” We paired local VIP Celebrities to compete for the BEST DANCERS in WeHa … such FUN.

We are always “On The Scene” BUT our major Anniversaries this Fall and Winter, like any major milestone have given us all cause to reflect. We do that a couple of times each month with our Podcast – On The Scene! Thanks to my co-host, Bob Carr, we-ha.com we have great fun in bringing to you interesting people in our community “on the air”. If you haven’t listened in yet, please do. OTS is available anywhere you listen to Podcasts, see Page 28. Special Thanks to our sponsor, NBT BANK as we spotlight local businesses and events happening in Greater West Hartford.

Looking forward to Celebrating 2025 with you!

Tom & Hillary President & Publisher

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West Hartford Chamber of Commerce:

PM Connections: A Catalyst for Innovation and Networking

by Christopher Conway The West Hartford Chamber of Commerce’s Business Resource Committee continues to set the

could transform fleeting introductions into lasting professional relationships.

bar for innovation and collaboration with its dynamic PM Connections series. Launched in April 2024, this initiative has quickly become a signature

The PM Connections series is more than just

an event; it is a celebration of the expertise and

offering of the Chamber, embodying its dedication to empowering businesses and nonprofits in the

collaboration within the Chamber network. By The series also tackled emerging trends and

pairing expert-led presentations with open

community. Through thoughtfully curated monthly

technologies, ensuring attendees were well-prepared

networking opportunities, each session ensured

events, the PM Connections series has fostered an

for the future.

participants left not only with newfound knowledge

environment of learning, networking, and growth,

In May, Thom Smith of Aventurine captivated

strengthening the bonds within the local business

the audience with a presentation on artificial

ecosystem.

intelligence in business, demystifying the technology

Organized by the Chamber’s business

but also with stronger professional connections and a sense of shared purpose.

The initiative underscores the Chamber’s

and illustrating how it can enhance efficiency,

unique position as a hub for businesses, nonprofits,

Resource Committee this series reflects the

customer engagement, and operational success.

and leaders who are deeply invested in the success of

Chamber’s enduring commitment to professional

Likewise, the December session, themed “New You,

West Hartford. From fostering a culture of

development and meaningful connections. By

New URL,” provided a roadmap for refreshing

continuous learning to building bridges across

exploring pressing topics and equipping members

digital branding to reflect growth and aspirations.

industries, PM Connections has become a linchpin

with actionable strategies, PM Connections has

Experts Ashlee Trelli of Capture the Concept,

for the community.

elevated the Chamber’s role as a cornerstone of

Micha Robbins of Blossom Design Studio, Emad

community-driven success.

AbouElgheit from Inbwnd Marketing and Gina

Simone of iHeart Media guided participants in

crafting modern, authentic online presences.

As PM Connections continues to evolve, it reinforces the West Hartford Chamber of

One of the most celebrated features of PM

each tailored to address the evolving challenges and opportunities faced by modern business leaders.

In September, branding and personal identity in the professional world took the spotlight, with Matthew Banaver of Bards, Eric Bergenn of Bergenn Financial Group, and Carla Ten Eyck of Carla Ten Eyck Photography delivering a compelling session on the synergy between authenticity and professional growth. Participants left inspired, armed with tools to align their personal values with their professional aspirations, creating cohesive and impactful brand identities.

Similarly, the August session was a masterclass in networking, led by local experts Chip Janiszewski and Gary Perrelli. Chamber President & CEO Chris Conway, a Director of Programs & Development Kate Kobs rounded out the session from their perspectives as networking facilitators. Their exploration of effective goal setting, the art of crafting a polished elevator pitch, and actionable follow-up techniques ensured that attendees

Commerce’s dedication to supporting businesses and nonprofits alike. This initiative exemplifies the

Connections is the breadth and depth of its topics,

Chamber’s guiding principles: fostering

Entrepreneurship was a recurring theme

collaboration, embracing innovation, and

throughout the series. June’s panel discussion, moderated by Camille Hudson of Warehouse 635, offered invaluable insights from successful entrepreneurs Kristian Vargas of Distinctive Ideas, Ryan McGinnis of Ryan’s Soft Wash and Phil Dube of WeHa Candle Co. Their candid stories of transitioning from side hustles to thriving businesses resonated with the audience, providing practical

empowering the local community to meet challenges head-on while pursuing opportunities for growth.

PM Connections has not only elevated the professional lives of its attendees but also strengthened the bonds that make West Hartford a vibrant, thriving place to live and work. With its sights set on the future, the Chamber remains steadfast in its mission to provide resources, events,

advice for navigating challenges and achieving

and initiatives that drive success and cultivate a spirit

scalability.

The sessions also delved into highly practical

of collective achievement.

topics. For example, October’s focus on business cards, led by Victor Dorobantu of OtherDesigns, proved that even in a digital-first world, traditional tools can remain essential when reimagined creatively. November’s crash course on business law

by Mac Finer of Cummings & Lockwood empowered attendees to navigate contracts and legal risks with confidence.

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est Hartford, CT – The air was electric with joy as Dr. Maura Graham and Owen Kenney exchanged

vows at the historic St. Peter Claver Church, a place of deep significance for the Graham family.

The ceremony, a beautiful blend of tradition and heartfelt emotion, set the stage for a truly unforgettable celebration.

Their journey began at a wedding – a fitting start for a couple whose own nuptials would be a testament to the enduring power of love and friendship. Maura and Owen, despite the initial challenge of a long-distance relationship, nurtured their connection, overcoming miles to build a strong foundation for their future together.

The proposal was a testament to Owen's creativity and Maura's love for puzzles. Unbeknownst to her, a personalized puzzle, filled with cherished memories of their time together, awaited her. As the final pieces fell into place, the puzzle revealed a heartfelt question: "Will you marry me?" – a moment that left Maura breathless. a®1ưNjţŦƫNjNj7®ưŧƫNjNjŤŢŤŧNjNjNjNjNjÔ ¿ÅNj q»Å ®» Nj§q qß ¨

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The reception at the elegant Farmington Polo Club was a dazzling affair.

Guests were greeted by a breathtaking entrance – a long driveway lined with illuminated trees, creating a magical ambiance. The festivities were a vibrant mix of heartfelt speeches, lively dancing to the infectious rhythms of a band featuring live music, and a decadent dessert bar that satisfied even the sweetest tooth.

The couple seamlessly incorporated the charm of West Hartford into their celebration. Dr. Graham's parents, both esteemed physicians in the Hartford area, have dedicated their lives to the community. The couple also chose to support local businesses, selecting Mariella's Creations for the stunning bridal gown, Katia DaSilva for the exquisite wedding cake, and Agnew Florist for the elegant floral arrangements.

Following their wedding, the newlyweds embarked on a romantic honeymoon. First, they enjoyed a charming mini-moon in Nashville, a nod to Owen's love of cowboy boots and a chance for Maura to finally own her first pair.

They then jetted off to the idyllic shores of Turks & Caicos, where they enjoyed the sun, sand, and serenity of a luxurious vacation.

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10th Annual Best of West Hartford contest was a night to remember, celebrating the best businesses and individuals

that make West Hartford a special place to live, work, and raise a family. The event, held on November 18, 2024, at the Mandell JCC, marked not only a decade of recognizing excellence in the community, but also coincided with the 95th anniversary of the Jewish Ledger, the 25th anniversary of West Hartford Magazine, and the 10th anniversary of we-ha.com.als

Over 200 attendees gathered to celebrate the local favorites. In the weeks leading up to the event, the community had the opportunity to cast their votes for their favorite businesses or individuals in 57 categories, ranging from Best Breakfast Restaurant and Best Business Lunch to Best Camp and Best Barber Shop. The anticipation was high as the envelopes were finally opened to reveal the winners and runners-up in each category.

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Njb $qNj7 ÅNjS®NjJ § §| » Adding to the excitement of the evening was the inaugural

“Dancing with WeHa Stars,” a fun competition featuring local

personalities putting on their dancing shoes to battle it out on the dance floor. Arthur Murray Dance Studios of Bloomfield provided training for these brave contestants, and even treated the attendees to some dance lessons during the cocktail hour. The energy in the room was electric as the crowd cheered on their favorite dancers.

In the end, Eric Feeney of Friends of Feeney and his dance partner Zuly Rivera of Juniper Homecare were crowned the champions of “Dancing with WeHa Stars,” while Mayor Shari Cantor and her partner Victor Gonzalez of NBT Bank took home second place. Jah Jones of Lewis Real Estate and Zoe Cramer of Sips and Sparks, and Dennis House of WTNH and Ronni Newton of We-Ha.com received honorable mentions for their impressive dance moves.

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The 10th Annual Best of West Hartford contest and the “Dancing with WeHa Stars” competition were a resounding success, leaving everyone with a sense of community pride and a night of unforgettable entertainment.

Photos by Todd Fairchild Video by Nild Sansone ţŪNjNjNjNjNjNjȆ

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Caring for Aging Parents -*1$ 4 * -/ - $ Ǽ Ǽ *0) $)" -/) *-/#./ - '/# -/) -.

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The content is developed from sources believed to be providing accurate information. The

hanks to healthier lifestyles and advances in modern medicine, the

information in this material is not intended as tax

worldwide population over age 65 is growing. In the past decade, the

or legal advice. It may not be used for the purpose

population of Americans aged 65 and older has grown 38% and is

of avoiding any federal tax penalties. Please consult legal or tax professionals for specific

expected to reach 94.7 million in 2060. As our nation ages, many

information regarding your individual situation.

This material was developed and produced by

Americans are turning their attention to caring for aging parents.1

FMG Suite to provide information on a topic that may be of interest. FMG Suite is not affiliated with

For many people, one of the most difficult conversations to have involves talking

the named broker-dealer, state- or SEC-registered

with an aging parent about extended medical care. The shifting of roles can be

investment advisory firm. The opinions expressed

challenging, and emotions often prevent important information from being exchanged

and material provided are for general information, and should not be considered a solicitation for the

and critical decisions from being made.

purchase or sale of any security. Copyright FMG Suite.

When talking to a parent about future care, it’s best to have a strategy for structuring the conversation. Here are some key concepts to consider.

Knowing ahead of time what information you need to find out may help keep the conversation on track. Here is a checklist that can be a good starting point: • Primary physician • Specialists • Medications and supplements • Allergies to medication It is also important to know the location of medical and estate management paperwork, including: 2 • Medicare card • Insurance information • Durable power of attorney for healthcare • Will, living will, trusts, and other documents

Remember that if you can collect all the critical information, you may be able to save your family time and avoid future emotional discussions. While checklists and

Ȅ The earlier you begin to communicate about important issues, the more likely you will be to have all the information you need when a crisis arises. How will you know when a parent needs your help? Look for indicators like fluctuations in weight, failure to take medication, new health concerns, and diminished social interaction. These can all be warning signs that additional care may soon become necessary. Don’t avoid the topic of care just because you are uncomfortable. Chances are that waiting will only make you more so.

Remember, whatever your relationship with your parent has been, this new phase of life will present challenges for both parties. By treating your parent with love and respect—and taking the necessary steps toward open communication—you will be able to provide the help needed during this new phase of life.

1. ACL.gov, November 2022 2. Note: Power of attorney laws can vary from state to state. An estate strategy that

scripts may help prepare you, remember that this conversation could signal a major

includes trusts may involve a complex web of tax rules and regulations. Consider

change in your parent’s life. The transition from provider to dependent can be difficult

working with a knowledgeable estate management professional before implementing

for any parent and has the potential to unearth old issues. Be prepared for emotions and

such strategies.

the unexpected. Be kind, but do your best to get all the information you need.

Robert Laraia may be reached

This conversation is probably not the only one you will have with your parent about their future healthcare needs. It may be the beginning of an ongoing dialogue. Consider involving other siblings in the discussions. Often one sibling takes a lead role when

at 860-665-7737 or rlaraia@nstarwp.com. www.natarwp.com

caring for parents, but all family members should be honest about their feelings,

Securities and advisory services offered through

situations, and needs.

LPL Financial, a registered investment advisor, Member FINRA SIPC

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The last stop on our Emerald Waterways River cruise on the Rhone was Lyon where I decided to stay an extra three days.

Lyon is a well-known food capital of France. Along with planning a patisserie tour for myself, a visit to a Michelin Star restaurant was on my list. Lyon has over 20 Michelin to choose from, -fabulous restaurants are

Betterrave/Feuille de Cassisier/Oeufs de Poissons -beet with blackcurrant leaf and whey with pike roe.

Veau de lait/Girolles/Reine des Prés – veal from the Auvergne region, with chanterelle mushrooms and meadowsweet sabayon.

so densely packed that there are even three Michelin restaurants within a

Rhubarbe/Verveine/Yaourt -rhubarb in different textures,

two-minute walk of each other on the same street! I chose another,

with verbena and yogurt.

Prairial, that was near the Museum of the Confluence, south of our hotel between the Rhone and Saone Rivers.

Prairial was an excellent choice. Gaetan Gentil, the head chef, spent his childhood in the countryside. Fittingly, the focus of his restaurant is

Abricot/Marjolaine – apricot worked in different textures with marjoram.

Nos Mignardises Épeautre/Chocolat/Melilot – mignardises with notes of spelt, chocolate, and sweet clover.

his love of local produce and wild resources. Produce is from the Rhone Valley, including herbs and wild plants. Céline Bionon is the head sommelier; both were extremely attentive while explaining their dishes and how to actually eat the more unique presentations in this eco-responsible atmosphere. The tables were made of French oak, circled around the kitchen and preparation area where we could see assistants placing the delicious specimens on the plates with tweezers - and the utmost care.

I chose the eight-sequence menu and I want you to share the delectable descriptions of what I enjoyed: Pomme Lyonnaise -an onion-based tube with creamy potatoes, parsley and smoked pike roe.

Tacos, Champignons – tiny tacos with mushrooms and a hint of caraway.

Croq’Aubergine - eggplant, toasted bread, and oregano.

Lisa Martin is a travel advisor, luxury cruise specialist, ACC, Cruise Planners; Land and Cruise.

Cristivomer/Artichaut/Thym Citron -cristovomer - a fish originally from Canada, later imported to French fresh waters - accompanied by artichoke, with its barigoule juice sliced with lemon thyme oil.

She maybe contacted at (860) 929-0708; Lisa.martin@cruiseplanners.com; TotalTravelToday.com

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It’s Winter. Celebrate with Fragrant Indoor Plants The words “winter” and “celebrate” don’t often appear

Another plant that is often available because the retailers

together in a sentence, particularly not together with the word

know that we are not only starved for greenery but also that we

“plants.”

are trapped indoors in winter, is jasmine.

But true gardeners—or even those who just want a little greenery around them in all four seasons—don’t let cold weather deter them from gardening.

While the scope of growing a true outdoor winter garden is

The jasmine that you will most often find is jasminum officinale. It’s a vining plant with wiry stems and pointy leaves. It is sold on a hoop to control its vining habit. Its buds may begin with a pinkish tone, so it’s a lovely plant to look at, as well as to

something to explore in a different article, I want to focus on

grow. If you put it outdoors in the summer, it will really grow

something different that can lift the spirits and soothe the senses.

vigorously, so it’s best to cut it back hard when you put it

One group of plants that I realize that I have not talked about in quite a while is herbs. Herbs are tough little plants that don’t get enough love from gardeners. If we think about them at all, we think about them as edible plants. But they are much more than that. They can be decorative and most of all, this time of year, they can be fragrant as well.

I have two different lavenders growing among my houseplants this winter. Just to brush by them and to breathe in that wonderful lavender scent. Of course, you need either full sun or grow lights to grow something like lavender but there are other choices that are not as demanding that might work nicely for you.

Other herbs that are incredibly fragrant and not unreasonably demanding for the winter are rosemary, thyme, sage and bay. As an added bonus, you can cook with them if you are so inclined.

If you do have full sun, I highly encourage a citrus plant.

Winter is the time when they bloom. And you have choices—lemon, calamondin orange, lime or something more

outside—or to be prepared for a really large plant to take over.

A different variety of jasmine, Jasminum sambac, stays more compact. It has double flowers and, to my nose, and even sweeter fragrance. Both jasmines like full sun but I have grown them in an east window when my south windows were too overcrowded to accommodate them.

Fragrance can be a personal thing and not everyone wants sweetness—or paperwhites—perfuming their homes.

Finally, even a snake plant (dracaena trifasciata) can bloom in the correct lighting. Most people love snake plants because they can be grown in a dark corner. But if you grow them with more light—mine are in a west window—and if you permit them to become pot-bound—they will bloom for you.

Their blooms are borne on a spike and they covered in sticky sap. They are wispy and mine have always been white, although I understand that they can bloom in burgundy as well, depending on the plant species.

Overall, as gardeners, winter is usually a dormant season for

exotic like the smaller oranges (satsumas) and kumquats are

us. Houseplants can enhance and extend our enjoyment—and

often obtainable. Most of the indoor citrus are grafted onto

fragrant houseplants can add something extra to our homes in

rootstock to keep them dwarf so you don’t need to worry that

the winter.

you will wind up with a nine-foot tree in your home.

And the blooms smell absolutely wonderful. They are worth growing for that alone. Last year I had a whole bowl full of lemons at the holidays. This year, my tree hasn’t been so generous. But I am looking forward to the blooms nevertheless!

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Karla Dalley Garden Specialist

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From Flock to Fabric: The Story of American Wool Farmers

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American wool farmers play a crucial role in preserving both the land and the craft of producing one of nature's most versatile fibers.

Scattered across the country from rolling hills in the Midwest to

out West, these farmers shepherd sheep that contribute not just to fashion, but to sustainability. Unlike synthetic alternatives, wool is natural, renewable, and biodegradable—qualities that make it a hero in the fight against fast fashion waste. American wool farmers are stewards of this eco-friendly resource, balancing tradition and innovation to produce high-quality fibers year after year.

The wool itself isn’t your scratchy childhood sweater anymore—thanks to generations of careful breeding and advances in processing. Farmers focus on raising breeds like Merino and Rambouillet sheep, known for their soft and fine wool that rivals even the most luxurious international competitors. From cozy sweaters to high-performance activewear, American wool fibers offer breathability, temperature regulation, and moisture-wicking properties. It’s no wonder wool has made a comeback, finding its place in both modern wardrobes and eco-conscious minds.

But wool farming isn’t just about the sheep; it’s about the land. Farmers implement sustainable grazing practices that protect soil health and foster biodiversity. Sheep naturally aerate the ground with their hooves and reduce wildfire risks by grazing on dry brush. In return, they produce wool and even enrich the earth with their manure—nature’s perfect circle of give and take. American wool farmers are pioneers of regenerative agriculture, proving that clothing production can coexist harmoniously with the environment.

In an era when “local” and “sustainable” are more than just buzzwords, American wool farmers are an integral part of the solution. They’re not just growing fibers; they’re cultivating heritage, environmental resilience, and quality. So the next time you pull on a wool sweater or wrap up in a cozy blanket, take a moment to appreciate the sheep, the land, and the farmers who make it all possible. Wool isn’t just warm—it’s a story spun with care, dedication, and a touch of American ingenuity.

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Matt Banever is founder and CEO of Bard Clothing in West Hartford.

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Title Sponsors

Produced by

10th

presents...

“On the Scene” Podcast!

PRESENTED BY

Best Outdoor Dining Winner

Doro Marketplace First Runner Up >_Û ^ l IeZ\^ ?Zfber K^lmZnkZgm Second Runner Up ?e^fbg`l

PRESENTED BY

Best Bakery Winner

>efphh] IZlmkr Lahi First Runner Up AZkm_hk] ;Zdbg` <h' Second Runner Up Donut Crazy

PRESENTED BY

Best Breakfast Restaurant Winner

LZeer ;h[ l First Runner Up >_Û ^ l IeZ\^ ?Zfber K^lmZnkZgm Second Runner Up Blue Plate Kitchen

Thank you to our sponsor

We appreciate your support!

PRESENTED BY

Best Tea Winner

<Z_^ LhÛ Z First Runner Up Green Teahouse Second Runner Up Tea Break

PRESENTED BY

Best Coffee Winner

C' K^g® <h__^^ KhZlm^kl First Runner Up Doro Marketplace Second Runner Up P^aZ ;k^pbg` KhZlmbg` <h'

Thank you to our sponsor

We appreciate your support!

PRESENTED BY

Best Brunch Winner

Pond House First Runner Up Avert Second Runner Up The Place 2 Be

Thank you to our sponsor

We appreciate your support!

PRESENTED BY

Best Family Restaurant Winner

>_Û ^ l IeZ\^ ?Zfber K^lmZnkZgm First Runner Up :'<' I^m^kl^g ?Zkf K^lmZnkZgm Second Runner Up ?^kgphh]

PRESENTED BY PRESENTED BY

# Dining Best Fine Winner ?e^fbg` l # First First Runner Runner Up Up Treva # Second Runner Runner Up Up Second :kmblZg 9 =^eZfZk

PRESENTED BY PRESENTED BY

Best Grocery # Store Winner AZee l FZkd^m # First Runner Up First Runner Up ;b` R # Second Second Runner Runner Up Up Ma^ <khpg FZkd^m

Thank you to our sponsor

We appreciate your support!

PRESENTED BY

Best Ice Cream Winner

:'<' I^m^kl^g ?Zkf K^lmZnkZgm First Runner Up Dbepbg l <ah\heZm^ B\^ <k^Zf Lahi Second Runner Up Milkcraft

PRESENTED BY

Best Pizza Winner

S^iark l Lmk^^m IbssZ First Runner Up AZkkr l ;blahil <hkg^k Second Runner Up >efphh] IbssZ

PRESENTED BY

Best Business Lunch Winner

Restaurant Bricco First Runner Up FZq l Hrlm^k ;Zk Second Runner Up Beachland Tavern

Thank you to our sponsor

We appreciate your support!

PRESENTED BY

Best Power Lunch Winner Zohara

First Runner Up Kh\de^]`^ @kbee^ Second Runner Up :kmblZg 9 =^eZfZk

PRESENTED PRESENTED BY BY

Best Wine # Shop Winner Ma^ Pbl^ He] =h` # First First Runner Runner Up Up Total#Wine Second Second Runner Runner Up Up FZqbfnf ;^o^kZ`^

PRESENTEDBY BY PRESENTED

Best Burger#Restaurant Winner FZq ;nk`^k # First First Runner Runner Up Up Kh\de^]`^ @kbee^ # Second Second Runner Runner Up Up Plan B

Thank you to our sponsor

We appreciate your support!

PRESENTED PRESENTED BY BY

Best Ethnic#Restaurant Winner ;eZ\d ;Zf[hh <abg^l^ K^lmZnkZgm # First Runner Runner Up Up First Zohara # Second Runner Runner Up Up Second Gnffr

PRESENTED BY

Best Food Truck Winner

GastroPark First Runner Up Craftbird Second Runner Up ?n^`h Ib\Zgm^

PRESENTED BY

Best Preschool/Daycare Winner

Mandell JCC, Beatrice Fox Auerbach Early Childhood Center First Runner Up Lm' Chl^ia L\ahhe _hk Rhng` <abe]k^g Second Runner Up Quaker Lane Cooperative

Thank you to our sponsor

West Hartford We appreciate your support!

PRESENTED BY

Best Camp Winner

<Zfi DH First Runner Up K^g[khhd L\ahhe Lnff^k :]o^gmnk^ Second Runner Up <Zfi LaZehf

PRESENTED BY

Best Eyewear Winner

Central Optica First Runner Up AZko^r E^pbl Second Runner Up West End Eye Care

PRESENTED BY

Best Specialty Retail Winner

C^kkr l :km&Z&KZfZ First Runner Up <hgg^\mb\nm <nlmhf <ehmabg` <hfiZgr Second Runner Up Park Road Shoe Repair

Thank you to our sponsor

We appreciate your support!

PRESENTED BY

Best Fine Jewelry Winner

Lux Bond & Green First Runner Up ;^\d^k l ?bg^ C^p^ekr Second Runner Up Store 52

PRESENTED BY

Favorite Non-Profit Winner

Friends of Feeney First Runner Up Oblbhgl(Ohb\^l C^pbla ?^]^kZmbhg h_ @k^Zm^k AZkm_hk] Second Runner Up Ron Foley Pancreatic Cancer Foundation

PRESENTED BY

Best Sports Retail Winner Fleet Feet

First Runner Up IeZr Bm :`Zbg Lihkml Second Runner Up REI

Thank you to our host sponsor

We appreciate your support!

PRESENTED BY

Best Men’s Clothing Winner

;Zk]l <ehmabg` First Runner Up <hgg^\mb\nm <nlmhf <ehmabg` <hfiZgr Second Runner Up CM @aZfh

PRESENTED BY

Best Women’s Clothing Winner ;D <h'

First Runner Up Dbf[^ker ;hnmbjn^ Second Runner Up Hope & Stetson

PRESENTEDBY BY PRESENTED

# Decor Best Home Winner Good Cause # Gifts First Runner Runner Up Up First DZhn] Hkb^gmZe Kn`l # Second Runner Runner Up Up Second Chag ;hre^ Ahf^ =^\hkZmbg`

Thank you to our sponsor

We appreciate your support!

PRESENTED BY

Best Exercise/Fitness Winner

Mandell JCC Greater Hartford First Runner Up HkZg`^ma^hkr ?bmg^ll Second Runner Up WIP

PRESENTED BY

Best Hair Salon Winner

Salons by JC First Runner Up FZmma^p Iabeebil Second Runner Up Off Center Salon & Spa

PRESENTED BY

Best Barber Shop Winner

Bristle & Blade Barber Shop First Runner Up Fifth State Barber Second Runner Up @Zkk^mm l ;Zk[^k Lahi

Thank you to our sponsor

We appreciate your support!

PRESENTED BY

Best Spa Winner

Victorian Day Spa First Runner Up ?ehZm ?hkmr&Hg^ Second Runner Up The Fix

PRESENTED BY

Best Yoga Winner

P^lm AZkm_hk] Rh`Z First Runner Up Mandell JCC Second Runner Up Rh`Z Lahi

PRESENTEDBY BY PRESENTED

Best Home Healthcare Winner

Hartford Healthcare First Runner Up Cngbi^k Ahf^ <Zk^ Second Runner Up <Zk^ Zm Ahf^ [r C^pbla ?Zfber L^kob\^l

Thank you to our sponsor

We appreciate your support!

PRESENTED BY

Best Assisted Living Winner The McAuley First Runner Up Duncaster Second Runner Up Ah__fZg Lnff^kphh]

PRESENTEDBY BY PRESENTED

Best Happy Hour Winner

Barcelona First Runner Up ?e^fbg` l Second Runner Up Ocho Cafe

Vin

PRESENTEDBY BY PRESENTED

# Best Late Night Spot Winner Vinted Wine # Bar & Kitchen First Runner Runner Up Up First World #of Beer Second Runner Runner Up Up Second :kmblZg 9 =^eZfZk

Thank you to our sponsor

We appreciate your support!

PRESENTED BY

Best Home Improvement Contractor Winner Bartlett Brainard First Runner Up C'I' <Zkkhee Second Runner Up C' <hkkb`Zg% EE<

PRESENTED BY

Best Doctor Winner

=k' MahfZl ?khflhg First Runner Up =k' ChgZmaZg Ebl Second Runner Up =k' Dnkm Kh]^

PRESENTED BY

Best Pet Services Winner

Pet Supplies Plus First Runner Up Phh_ @Zg` Second Runner Up N[^k]h`

Thank you to our sponsor

We appreciate your support!

PRESENTED BY

Best Veterinarian Winners (TIED!) CT Veterinary Center & Vet Specialists of CT First Runner Up Petcare Veterinary Services

PRESENTEDBY BY PRESENTED

Best Dentist # Winner Blue Back # Dental First Runner Up =k' Mhkb LZ_^kbg # Second Runner Up >efphh] =^gmZe @khni

PRESENTED BY

Best Lawn/Landscaping Contractor Winner

C^__ Ah]`^l EZg]l\Zi^ <hgmkZ\mhk Second Runner Up CZf^l L\neer >goblbhg EZg]l\Zi^ =^lb`g Second Runner Up Mk^gm EZg]l\Zibg`

Thank you to our sponsor

West Hartford We appreciate your support!

PRESENTED BY

Best Real Estate Company Commercial Winner RLM

First Runner Up Udolf Second Runner Up ?b`nk^ >b`am

PRESENTED BY

Best Real Estate Company Residential Winner

;^kdlabk^ AZmaZpZr First Runner Up PbeebZf KZo^bl K^Ze >lmZm^ Second Runner Up <he]p^ee ;Zgd^k

PRESENTED BY

Best Real Estate Agent Commercial Winner

Robert Udolf First Runner Up :]Zf <Zgghg Second Runner Up FZkd Sp^bÜ ^k

Thank you to our sponsor

We appreciate your support!

PRESENTED PRESENTEDBY BY

Best Real Estate # Agent Residential Winner Winner #

Robin Gebrian First Runner Up First Runner Up # D^obg >`Zg Second Runner Up Second Runner Up DZkZ ?eZgZ`Zg

PRESENTED BY

Best Wealth Management/ # Financial Planning Individual Winner Winner #

Robert Laraia First Runner Up First Runner Up # Martin Coursey Second Runner Up @^kZe] @he][^k`

PRESENTED BY

Best Wealth Management/ # Financial Planning Firm Winner PeoplesBank # First Runner Up # P^lmÛ ^e] ;Zgd Second Runner Up NBT Bank

Thank you to our host sponsor

We appreciate your support!

PRESENTEDBY BY PRESENTED

Best Physical # Therapist Winner Winner Select Physical Therapy # First Runner Up First Runner Up Medicine Physical Therapy & Sports # Second Runner Up SecondOates/CPTS Runner Up Jackie

PRESENTEDBY BY PRESENTED

Best Bank/Financial Institution # Winner PeoplesBank # First First Runner Runner Up Up P^lmÛ ^e] ;Zgd # Second Second Runner Runner Up Up NBT Bank

PRESENTEDBY BY PRESENTED

# Best Garden/Florist Winner Fhl\Zkbeeh l @Zk]^g Lahii^ # First Runner Runner Up Up First House # of Flora Second Runner Runner Up Up Second EZg^ E^g`^

Thank you to our sponsor

We appreciate your support!

PRESENTED BY

# Best Walk-in Medical Clinic Winner Winner Hartford Healthcare GoHealth # First Runner Up First Runner Care Up PM Pediatric # Second Runner Up Second Runner Physician OneUp

PRESENTEDBY BY PRESENTED

Best Law # Firm Winner @h__ EZp @khni # First First Runner Runner Up Up >Z`Zg =hgZan^ # Second Second Runner Runner Up Up <nffbg`l Eh\dphh]

PRESENTEDBY BY PRESENTED

# Venue Best Event Winner =^eZfZk # First First Runner Runner Up Up Mandell # JCC Second Second Runner Runner Up Up Ngbo^klbmr h_ Lm' Chl^ia l

PRESENTED BY PRESENTED BY

Best Performing Arts Winner

Playhouse on Park First Runner Up Dbg`lphh] Hq_hk] =Zg\^ Ma^Zm^k Second Runner Up <ZibmZe <eZllb\l Ma^Zm^k <hfiZgr

PRESENTED PRESENTED BY BY

Best West# Hartford Cheerleader – Individual Winner Winner #

Shari Cantor First Runner Up First Runner Up # Khggb G^pmhg Second Runner Up Patti Albee

PRESENTED PRESENTED BY BY

Best West# Hartford Cheerleader – Business Winner Winner # Noah Webster House &

West Hartford Historical Society

First Runner Up # First Runner Up French Cleaners Second Runner Up Second Runner Up La^^aZg Abe[hkg ;k^^g ?ng^kZe Ahf^

PRESENTED BY

# Best “_______” write-in Winner Winner # Ma^ <abe]k^g l Fnl^nf First First Runner Runner Up Up Connecticut Physical# Therapy Specialists Second Second Runner Runner Up Up LZeer ;h[ l

PRESENTED BY

Thank you!

In WeHa everyone’s a winner!