Farmington Valley, CT November 2026 by City Lifestyle

Thankful N OV E M B E R 2 02 6

Bill Selig Jewelers "Thankful for a lifetime of shared memories, the best is yet to come." Custom Design Restoration Cleaning and Repairs Appraisals

"I am thankful for all the terrific people I've had the opportunity to get to know and work with throughout my 49 years in business. This includes of course my family, my friends, my neighbors, and especially my current Bill Selig Jewelers' family. I am very thankful to be a member of this community. It is an honor for us all at Bill Selig Jewelers to help you commemorate your very special moments. We look forward to all the years ahead. Please stop in for a visit and a warm welcome."

www.billseligjewelers.com | 860-651-0555 712 Hopmeadow Street Simsbury , CT 06070

LIFESTYLE LETTER

The Season of Thankfulness I think November is one of my favorite months. Although the air is cooler and the leaves have mostly fallen, the vibe is warm and full of gratitude. It is a time of recharging and reminding myself what I am THANKFUL for. In fact, for years, my family has created a Thanksgiving card instead of a more traditional holiday card in December. Being appreciative is part of my fabric and who I am. For me, I found that gratitude can often bring peace. Living a more peaceful life is exactly what the rescue horses at US Horse Welfare & Rescue Organization in Avon, CT have been given. Sitting high atop Nod Hill, Susan Mitchell and a team of volunteers are working to save the lives of America’s horses. We were so honored and excited to visit Nod Hill Farm and learn more about this program this month. The Thankful Turkey at Miller Farm Cares began during COVID, a trying time for many. The idea of giving a turkey to those with food insecurities with every purchased turkey was one way Miller Farms helped those in need. What started as a local Thanksgiving tradition has grown into a year-round effort with nationwide reach. By now you probably are aware of my passion for coffee houses. Sure, part of it is the fulfillment of a warm cup of goodness, but a huge portion is also how our local coffee houses shine and pour out for the communities we live in. They reach out to underemployed communities like those in the IDD community, provide playgrounds for our kids and are a welcome place for everyone. We are lucky to have places like BeanZ & Co., The Coffee Spot, Giv Coffee and Doms, where the owners invest in our community every day. I am thankful that our team can bring you these stories this month and I am thankful for you.

November 2026 PUBLISHER

Ed Main | ed.main@citylifestyle.com E D I TO R

Erica Drzewiecki | erica.drzewiecki@citylifestyle.com STAF F P H OTO G R AP H E R

Patrick Kiniry | pat@pkotography.com S O C I AL M E D I A C O O R D I N ATO R

Maddy Maske | maddy@bloommoremedia.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Vintage Kovel, Erica Drzewiecki, Keith McGilvery, Ed Main, Michael Mezheritskiy C O N T R I B U T I N G P H OTO G R AP H E R S

Patrick Kiniry, Michele Wolff

Corporate Team CEO Steven Schowengerdt President Matthew Perry CRO Jamie Pentz CoS Janeane Thompson AD DESIGNER Rachel Chrisman LAYOUT DESIGNER Liz Nixon QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Anna Minnick

ED MAIN, PUBLISHER @ F A R M I N G T O N VA L L E Y L I F E S T Y L E

Learn how to start your own publication at CityLifestyle.com//Franchise. Proverbs 3:5-6 Farmington Valley City Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Farmington Valley area’s most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle

Visit our Instagram C I T Y L I F E S T Y L E . C O M / F A R M I N G T O N VA L L E Y

L I F E ST Y LE LE T T E R

Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in Farmington Valley City Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

inside the issue NOVE M B E R 2 0 2 6 | TH ANK F U L

14 Featured

14 18

WHY CHOOSE BETWEEN PRESTIGE AND PLACEMENT?

Departments

The Thankful Horse

Horse rescue benefits equines and gives humans hope

Pouring into Community

Local coffee houses serve up purpose and passion

Gobble Gobble Goodness

Avon farm feeds thousands and aids food insecurities year-round

On the Cover Young rider, Campbell Brooks, leads Cupid (horse) at Nod Hill Farm Photography: PK Photography

Print Prestige Meets Digital Power.

Lifestyle Letter

City Scene

Business Monthly

City List

Hometown Hero LIFE + CULTURE

Giving Back FOOD + BEVERAGE

Trend Setter LIFE + CULTURE

Our Town LIFE + CULTURE

Financial Buzz FINANCE + LEGAL SERVICES

Must See LIFE + CULTURE

Events

Culinary Creations FOOD + BEVERAGE

With City Lifestyle’s co-branded print + digital packages, your business captures attention wherever our community is looking. Build unmatched local credibility on the page, and drive immediate action online. Ready to double your local reach? Contact your local publisher by scanning below.

Chad W. Langevin CFP®, CPWA®, AIF®

RETIREMENT PLANNING INVESTMENT MANAGEMENT TAX-SMART WEALTH STRATEGIES ESTATE COORDINATION

Your finances are complex, your wealth management shouldn’t be. Book a Complimentary Discovery Meeting

We call it “Simplifying complexity™”.

www.SonderAdvisors.com | 12 N. Main St., Ste. 102, W. Hartford, CT 06107 | 860-250-5000 | Securities and advisory services offered through Commonwealth Financial Network®, Member FINRA/SIPC, a Registered Investment Adviser. Fixed insurance products and services are separate from and not offered through Commonwealth Financial Network®.

920 Hopmeadow Street, Simsbury CT 06070 Simsbury@bhhsne.com This year, I'm thankful for the front doors. The ones I got to open for the first time with a family. The ones that closed on a chapter someone loved for decades. To the Farmington Valley families who let me be part of your story this year:

! u o y k n a th

RONI WYSS, REALTOR® 860-713-8037 RoniWyss@bhhsne.com VeronicaWyss.bhhsneproperties

SERVING CLIENTS IN THE GREATER FARMINGTON VALLEY ©2026 BHH Affiliates, LLC. An independently operated subsidiary of HomeServices of America, Inc., a Berkshire Hathaway affiliate, and a franchisee of BHH Affiliates, LLC. Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices and the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices symbol are registered service marks of HomeServices of America, Inc.® Equal Housing Opportunity. Information not verified or guaranteed. If your home is currently listed with a Broker, this is not intended as a solicitation.

NOVEMBER 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/FA RMI N GTO N VA L L E Y

NOVEMBER 2026

city scene WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

1-6: Dream riders and families celebrate at Farmington Polo Club. 7: Dream Ride brings out fashion and friends to the Farmington Polo Club. Photography by Michele Wolff

C I T Y SC E N E

Want to be seen in the magazine? TA G Y O U R I N S TA G R A M P H O T O S W I T H @ F A R M I N G T O N V A L L E Y L I F E S T Y L E

11 4

MICHELE WOLFF

8: Ryan Wildrick, left, Michael Bozzuto, center, and Ed Main, FV Lifestyle Publisher, right, at Dream Ride 9: The Hometown Foundation media team onsite covering Dream Ride at Farmington Polo Club 10: Dream Ride honors and celebrates our public safety and police officers in CT 11: The Genesis of Avon team at Dream Ride 2026 12: The Daily Grind opens concessions at The Mead in Farmington 13: Veterans gather weekly at BeanZ and Co in Avon 14: Doms Creamery delivers at Dream Ride Photography by Michele Wolff and FV Lifestyle

NOVEMBER 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/FA RMI N GTO N VA L L E Y

NOVEMBER 2026

business monthly A ROUNDUP OF NEWS F R O M LO C A L B U S I N E S S E S

Sonder Makes A Move

190 Years of People Worth Thanking Thank you, Simsbury, for 190 years as our home. We're still growing, and we'd love to have you on the team.

Sonder Wealth Advisors, formerly of Farmington, has moved to an exciting new address. Their main office is now located at 12 N. Main Street, Suite 102, in West Hartford Center. Excited to be a part of this dynamic and growing community, the Sonder team now occupies a vibrant space that’s even better to welcome clients, collaborate, and continue serving you for years to come. www.SonderAdvisors.com

Scan to read more

SIMSBURY, CT

EBAD.com/careers 10

B USIN E SS M ON T H LY

Want to be featured? G E T I N T O U C H AT CIT YLIFEST YLE .COM/ FA R M I N G TO N VA L L E Y

pk photography

Professional headshots, branding photography, and commercial imagery designed to showcase your people, your culture, and your story. pkotography.com

NOVEMBER 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/FA RMI N GTO N VA L L E Y

PICKS FOR

ER’S TOP BU SI

We have such amazing, innovative business leaders in our community who are proud to serve you, our residents, with class and quality. We’ve compiled some of our top company picks for the services that might be on your mind this month in an effort to make your lives a little easier.

CITY LIST

the

R OU

Hair Salons LUX Hair Co. instagram.com/LUX_HairCo | 860.321.7351 Rhenium Salon & Spa RheniumSalonAndSpa.com | 860.651.3535 Blo Blow Dry Bar BloMeDry.com/blo-canton | 959.866.3045 Village Shears 959.895.9488 Gallery Salon GallerySalon.com | 860.677.7202

Charity Miller Farms Cares MillerFarmsCares.org | 860.673.3258 Mary's Place MarysPlaceCT.org | 888.688.8475

Want to suggest a monthly pick? G E T I N T O U C H AT CIT YLIFEST YLE .COM/ FA R M I N G TO N VA L L E Y

C I T Y LIST

REACH Foundation TheReachFoundation.org | 860.677.8407 Gifts of Love GiftsOfLoveCT.org | 860.676.2323 Healing Meals Community Project HealingMealsProject.org | 860.264.5864

NOVEMBER 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/FA RMI N GTO N VA L L E Y

T HE T H A NK F UL HOR S E LOCAL HORSE RESCUE BENEFITS EQUINES AND GIVES HUMANS HOPE

ARTICLE BY VINTAGE KOVEL PHOTOGRAPHY BY PATRICK KINIRY

H OM E TOWN H E R O | L I FE + CU LT U RE

Sitting atop Nod Hill in Avon are the tranquil, carefully maintained grounds of US Horse Welfare & Rescue. Every day, groups of volunteers arrive at 6 a.m. sharp to clean, prep water and feed, and tend to the 15 rescue horses that the organization has taken in since founding in 2016. Some of the horses are seniors, some are thoroughbreds, others were given up by previous owners, and all are receiving lifelong care after being saved from sure death. USHWR started as a horse rescue, buying as many horses as it could from auction houses at great expense. Now, with the facility at capacity,

volunteers focus their efforts on advocacy and keeping horses from entering the pipeline towards death row in the first place. They also work to connect horse owners to farms and families they know will be able to take in horses in need of care. Over their 10 years of operation, they have directly saved nearly 100 horses from entering the pipeline. It is unfortunately common for horse owners to be forced to give up their animals due to costs or changes in lifestyle, and even the most well-meaning people cannot control what happens to their horse after rehoming. Too many horses end up in places like the New Holland Auction House, where it is frighteningly easy for bad actors to snap them up. Horses purchased in this way can be resold for exorbitant prices; resellers threaten slaughter unless the animal is purchased, preying on people’s empathy. Horses that are not rescued, or aren’t seen as worthwhile at the auction houses, are often transported across the border to be killed. The ones that survive are put through incredible stress as they are moved and rehomed, sometimes multiple times. “It can be hard,” says USHWR founder Susan Mitchell. Some horses can be uncooperative during a move, and many have health conditions that can be expensive and time-consuming to manage. Mitchell takes great care to vet the people who will be taking in these long-living animals, and it can be a slow process to find someone with the capacity for another animal. It’s part of USHWR’s mission to do this right, and the completely volunteer-led

organization is willing to put in the work to ensure horses’ safety. Even more critically than the rescue of individual horses, USHWR maintains a lobbyist in D.C. who works to get laws on the books to protect horses nationwide. They helped introduce the SAFE act, which will enshrine protections against slaughtering horses for human consumption and preventing the sale of horses for those purposes. This act is still in the process of becoming law, and USHWR is working to keep it moving forward. Mitchell has been involved with horses since she was young. She fondly remembers pony rides at birthday parties and summer camp experiences. She was forced to step away from the hobby when she went to college, but with her husband’s encouragement, she got back into caring for horses in 2010. She founded the rescue after being put on bedrest following knee surgery, using the time to research the horse slaughter pipeline. She was particularly moved by the story of a young girl who had to give CONTINUED >

NOVEMBER 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/FA RMI N GTO N VA L L E Y

up her horse, but when they miraculously reconnected years later, the horse remembered her. “Horses have such deep emotion,” Mitchell explains. They have long memories, and a way of connecting with humans – particularly neurodivergent children. She has seen kids with depression or anxiety remarkably soothed, and those with ADHD and autism find great satisfaction and focus. Spending time up at the barn is a perfect way to get away from the overstimulation of technology, as well. Expanding programs for seniors is a priority. Too many are left alone for long, empty days, but through community outreach, the organization has been able to bring many in for sessions with the horses. Mitchell spoke about the incredible success the programs have for people with Alzheimer's. “I would have spouses come to me and say they haven’t seen their partner smile like that in years.” Their spouses had more good days, and were more aware and social for longer following their horse session. Mitchell is thrilled to share these stories. “Horses can help everyone,” she says. The organization is working in the community to increase awareness, both of the dangers of the slaughter pipeline and horses’ incredible nature. At The Ethel Walker School, non-riding students have the opportunity to work with horses. USHWR is also developing programs to help young girls in urban environments, as well as food-insecure adults.

H OM E TOWN H E R O | L I FE + CU LT U RE

A contingent of wonderful volunteers takes excellent care of the horses, but people have busy lives, and volunteer time is the first thing cut when they have to rebalance. Grants could help support operating costs, but they don’t have a grant writer to seek them out. Instructors are all paid experts. “We want to incentivize people giving their best work,” Susan says. Without the volunteers, costs would be too high. Lessons and programs are what propel them to keep serving the community and continuing their mission. While every donation is important, the consistency of lessons ensures they can buy feed and maintain the barn, while keeping the pressure on in D.C. Thankfully, USHWR is supported by an incredible community, allowing it to continue serving its mission. New volunteers are always welcome. Mitchell is immeasurably grateful to all her volunteers and to everyone involved. Horses are wonderful, brilliant creatures with the power to impact people’s lives, and thanks to everyone’s generosity, this organization is able to help keep them safe.

Precision • Care • Excellence Expert Minds | Healthier Smiles Cosmetic Dentistry

Dental Implants

General Dentistry

Dr. Aristotelis Marinis, is a board-certified prosthodontist with over 15 years of clinical and academic experience in advanced restorative and implant dentistry. Experience dentistry the way it should be: patient-centered, human, and mindful.

Welcoming New Patients minddentalct.com | 860.470.4191 |

V minddental_ct | B Mind Dental

599 Farmington Avenue #300, Farmington, CT 06032

FARMINGTON VALLEY REALTY

ARDOR

SNAPSHOT

R E R E A AL L E ES ST TA AT T E E

AUGUST 20th-SEPTEMBER 19th, 2026 ADDRESS

LIST PRICE

SOLD PRICE

8 FARNHAM WAY, FARMINGTON

$1,995,000

$2,079,000

% SOLD/ORIGINAL LP 104%

DOM

58 HIGH VALLEY DR, CANTON

$1,825,000

$1,900,000

104%

79 HIGHRIDGE RD, SIMSBURY

$1,750,000

$1,775,000

101%

41 RIDGEBURY RD, AVON

$1,495,000

$1,460,000

98%

273 NORTHINGTON DR, AVON

$1,495,000

$1,500,000

100%

3 NEWCASTLE PL, FARMINGTON

$1,450,000

$1,500,000

9 REED HILL RD, GRANBY

$1,300,000

100%

43 OAK RIDGE DR, AVON

$1,199,000

$1,352,000

112%

9 WEATHERSTONE, AVON

$1,195,000

$1,255,000

105%

207 GREAT POND RD, SIMSBURY

$1,125,000

$1,075,000

96%

Data sampling based on highest price point single-family homes. Source: Smar tMLS . Cour tesy of Ardor Real Estate.

ardorrealestategroup.com

860.256.1280

20 W. M a i n S t , 2 n d F l o o r, Avo n , CT NOVEMBER 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/FA RMI N GTO N VA L L E Y

L oc al c of fee h ouses ser ve up pur pose and pass ion

POURING INTO COMMUNITY ARTICLE BY KEITH MCGILVERY AND ED MAIN

Local coffee houses like BeanZ, Dom’s, and The Coffee Spot are the center of community in many ways. They provide a gathering place for friends, businesses, students, and families. However, they are more than just a place for coffee, they are beacons of light serving the diverse residents of Farmington Valley.

BEANZ & CO. BREWS OPPORTUNITIES FOR ALL ABILITIES (BY KEITH MCGILVERY)

beanZandco.com When you step inside BeanZ and Co. in Avon, you'll find fresh brewed coffee, great food, and exceptional service in a place where EVERYONE BELONGS. For

G IV IN G BAC K | FO O D + BE VE RAGE

Co-founders Kim Morrison and Noelle Alix, it's more than a tagline, it's their authentic commitment to creating a community and jobs for people of all abilities, including those with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD). The bustling café, coffee house and adjacent pasta company is a beacon for embracing and creating a community of people, from all walks of life. BeanZ & Co. is on a mission to expand awareness of and reduce the number of IDD friends that are unemployed or underemployed. The need for this was inspired by their daughters, who both have Down syndrome. Kim’s daughter, Meg, is a customer favorite who knows the menu by heart. Her smile lights up the counter, and she can easily guide you through the fresh-baked treats, signature salads, sandwiches, and seasonally-inspired specials. She has had a tracheostomy since infancy and communicates through American Sign Language (ASL). Being a savvy businesswoman, she rarely lets that stop her from encouraging visitors to add a baked good to their order. Longtime BeanZ employee, Nick Sinacori, is dean of the dining room. The accomplished Special Olympics athlete welcomes guests with his genuine, warm smile and is always there to lend a helping hand to guests, bringing their food or clearing a table for others. BeanZ is a frequent destination for service men/ women and dogs alike. You can find the local Avon VFW (Post 3272) gathering every Thursday morning and lending a hand when a need arises, such as the time the café had to move a few years ago. Blue Path Service dogs are always welcome guests at the café as well. The will be hosting a weekly Storytime Saturday with one of their service dogs starting again this winter. Where we spend our time and money says a lot about what we value. When you visit BeanZ & Co., you're saying yes to a world where EVERYONE BELONGS.

Meg Morrison of BeanZ & Co. in Avon

“We are open to what the community wants and needs, no matter who you are, there is a place for you here"

THE SCOOP (& SLIDE) AT DOM’S

domscoffee.com Playgrounds are much more than just places for children to play. They are spaces for learning, social interaction, laughter, and connection. They bring families together and create a true sense of community. Dom’s Coffee owners Asta Plankiene and Andrius Plankis have a dream to build a local playground in Avon in 2027. Dom’s Scoop & Slide will be a playground next to their ice cream shop on Main Street in Avon. CONTINUED >

NOVEMBER 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/FA RMI N GTO N VA L L E Y

From climbers and slides to musical play stations and shaded areas, each element of the playground plays an important role in creating a safe, engaging place for children and families to gather. “We are working to create a modern, safe, and welcoming playground where families can gather, children can grow, and memories can be made," says Plankiene. Over 50 local businesses and individuals have already donated to make this vision a reality through sponsorships ranging from $25 to $10,000. There is still time to donate and make a meaningful investment in the neighborhood to serve the families of today and in the years to come. Groundbreaking is expected in spring 2027 with a completion date anticipated around Summer 2027.

SHOP-A-LATTE AT THE COFFEE SPOT

thecoffeespot.net Something you will notice about the Coffee Spot (CS) in Simsbury is its dedication to being an all-inclusive gathering space for the community. Owners Amy and Jay Sheehan have created a space with unique events like dog and cat adoptions, goat snuggling, and writing clubs. They often create special treats to raise money and awareness for specific purposes as well. Recently, they created a “Teal Ribbon Latte” in which Teal Cold Foam can be added to a drink. The proceeds go towards Diane’s Helping Hands, to benefit ovarian cancer patients

G IV IN G BAC K | FO O D + BE VE RAGE

and increase awareness. Similarly, they create special baked goods that support local theater groups. Siobhán Murphy is a manager, baker and event coordinator at CS. She is focused on delivering ways to connect people to one another such as the SHOP A LATTE Market, a monthly market series running from April through October each year. Some recent vendors include authors and local artists who specialize in crochet, glassworks, jewelry, pottery, and even homemade dog treats. “We are open to what the community wants and needs”, says Murphy, “no matter who you are, there is a place for you here."

GIV COFFEE

givcoffee.com A huge part of the mission of Giv from day one has been creating a quality local product that impacts the world and the local community. Follow your nose - Giv Coffee roasts their beans here in Canton behind their coffee shop on Albany Turnpike. Follow your heart - Giv donates $1 of every bag sold to organizations such as locally-based Community First School (CFS), which serves children in grades K-5 in North Hartford. CFS empowers children to own their greatness, to become passionate, independent learners able to compete, collaborate, and innovate in a diverse world by implementing a whole-family care, relationship-based, and place-based program.

29 Wampanoag Dr, West Hartford, CT

(860) 236-4221

Avon Lighting Showroom Custom Lampshades & Replacements in Avon. Connecticut’s Premier Destination for Custom & Designer Shades Since 1972. • Lampshades • We will assist you • Bringing in your lamp is best

For over 50 years, Avon Lighting Showroom has been the premier destination for homeowners and designers seeking to transform their spaces with the perfect glow. Located in the historic Riverdale Farms Shopping Plaza, we offer more than just light fixtures—we offer a curated gallery of inspiration.

(860)678-1488 avonlightingshowroom.com lighting@sbcglobal.net @avonlighting 144 Simsbury Rd. Avon, CT 06001

NOVEMBER 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/FA RMI N GTO N VA L L E Y

GOBBLE GOBBLE Goodness

Cal Miller-Stevens, Capri Brighenti, Camlyn Miller-Stevens of Miller Farms

LOCAL FARM FEEDS THOUSANDS AND AIDS FOOD INSECURITIES YEAR-ROUND ARTICLE BY ERICA DRZEWIECKI | PHOTOGRAPHY BY PATRICK KINIRY

T R E N D SE T T E R | L I FE + CU LT U RE

From switching on night lights for oneday-old hatchlings and letting them run around the field at 14 weeks, to serving up a feast for countless guests, Carolyn “Cal” Miller-Stevens knows her way around a turkey. That’s why when Covid-19 hit and her daughter Taryn came up with the Thankful Turkey idea – buy one, donate one – she loved it. Their family’s fourth-generation Miller Farms on Arch Road in Avon pivoted in 2020 to address a growing need across Connecticut – food insecurity (hunger). Today Miller Farms Cares and its Thankful Turkey program feed hundreds of thousands of residents in all 169 towns. Now the non-profit is expanding its footprint on the calendar, with food outreach events all year long. “What we’re finding is everybody donates at Thanksgiving or Christmas, but what happens the rest of the year?” said Miller-Stevens, Chief Ambassador. “They get bombarded during the holidays, then the other 11 months people are hungry.” When kids get out of school for the summer, they’re often missing the free or reduced-price meals they had. Then at the end of August, back-to-school shopping can cost parents a pretty penny. Miller Farms has an ongoing partnership with CT Foodshare and is joining with other charities to serve the ongoing need. One is the Avon-based Healing CONTINUED >

Miller Farms has four generations of family history NOVEMBER 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/FA RMI N GTO N VA L L E Y

Meals, serving people with debilitating illnesses, and is hosting a turkey dinner at Miller Farms Nov. 4. Miller-Stevens shared how her family came to raise turkeys, becoming Purdue’s largest distributor in the late 1970s to 80s, until big-box stores joined the party. While Miller no longer raises turkeys on its property due to the changing neighborhood and new USDA regulations, it still partners with all family farms to sell turkeys at local Big Ys and Tulmeadow Farms. An e-commerce business grants the ability to ship around the country, so companies send gift boxes to hundreds of employees as a thank-you for their hard work. Miller Foods and its popular pet food brand, Oma’s Pride, cover 100% of the operating costs of Miller Farms Cares, and a volunteer board guides outreach efforts. The goal is to double their budget to $50,000 for donations this year. “We have a big challenge ahead of us, but it seems easier when the people on the team are motivated and passionate,” said board member Steve Bonnell of Avon. When longtime friend Sam Stevens, Cal’s husband, told him they were ramping up, “it was a big yes” for Bonnell. “Challenge accepted,” he said. Fellow board member Lindee Kobylarz grew up with the Millers, who once had up to 20,000 turkeys roaming their five-acre farm. Both joined

other volunteers at a thank-you dinner MillerStevens hosted recently. “We’re not trying to reinvent the wheel, we’re trying to support and complement what other folks are doing using the unique capabilities of Miller Farms to expand our outreach,” Kobylarz said. An estimated one in seven people and one in five children in CT don’t know where their next meal will come from, according to Al Marino, retired Director of Corporate Giving and Community Giving at Connecticut Foodshare and a Miller Farms Cares board member. “People think of food insecurity as being a city problem, but people are hungry right here, even in Avon and Farmington,” Marino said. Miller-Stevens has helped distribute turkeys in years past, and it always impacts her on a personal level. “It fills your heart to hear that thank-you,” she said. When we’re struggling, it can be hard to ask for help. Call it hunger or food insecurity, but it’s not a term people are apt to readily accept for themselves or their families. Still, many folks need assistance putting food on the table, especially in challenging times. “How can we keep people prideful and support them at the same time?” Miller-Stevens posed. “We all go through ups and downs in life. We’re just trying to make a difference however we can.”

“What we’re finding is everybody donates at Thanksgiving or Christmas, but what happens the rest of the year?"

T R E N D SE T T E R | L I FE + CU LT U RE

Total Home Comfort, Simpliﬁed Serving Farmington Valley over 40 Years

Propane Heating Oil Heating & Cooling Generators & Electric

Plumbing Water Treatment Pest Control Home Energy Audits

24-Hour Personal Service

ValiantEnergy.com

800-992-2227

HOD-1319 | S1-0407735 | P1-0204203 | E-0123938 | PMBR 3634

NOVEMBER 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/FA RMI N GTO N VA L L E Y

Kerry Rose Langlais beacon bank

we asked a few community members what they are thankful for this year.

A Season of Thankfulness

I am thankful to be SOBER AND SUCCESSFUL TODAY!!! I am thankful for all the support from friends and family and my co-workers. I have an amazing life today and find joy giving back to others and providing strength and hope to all.

O UR TOWN | L I FE + C ULT U RE

Cheryl Benanti reiki will travel I’m grateful for my ability to nurture all aspects of my health. This allows me to fully be present with my clients and I am thankful for their trust in me.

Stacy Routhier ebad I’m thankful for the opportunity to work in marketing for Ensign-Bickford Aerospace & Defense (EBAD), a company whose exciting projects support space exploration, national security, and the safety of our country. I’m especially grateful to do this work in my hometown of Simsbury, while traveling the world and helping share the stories of the people and technology making a difference.

Lauren Magel green compass advocate, the scoop-avon) I am thankful for the season of life that I am in. I am thankful for the people that make it full, the lessons that have stretched me and finding joy in the little moments that remind me just how good life really is.

Rondell Goorachan ethan allen I am most thankful for the wonderful clients who have welcomed me into their homes and trusted me with their design projects. For relationships we’ve built, and helping create homes that are unique, stylish, cozy, and practical has been an incredible privilege. For that, I am forever thankful.

Jacqueline Keller avon old farms I’m thankful to work at such a wonderful community, surrounded by supportive colleagues and students who make even the busiest days brighter. As I prepare to welcome my first child—a boy—into the world this November, I’m particularly mindful of how fortunate I am to be surrounded by so much positivity, encouragement, and support for young men in today's demanding world.

NOVEMBER 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/FA RMI N GTO N VA L L E Y

THE Hidden Tax BILL Know The Tax Status of Your Retirement Account ARTICLE BY MICHAEL MEZHERITSKIY

Here is a conversation I have almost every week. Someone sits down, shows me an IRA statement and says, “I have $1 million saved for retirement.” My response is uncomfortable but important: not ALL of that money is available to spend. If the account is a traditional IRA or 401(k), a significant portion may be owed in taxes. Most traditional retirement money has never been taxed. Withdrawals are generally treated as ordinary income. For a Connecticut couple in the 24% federal bracket, with roughly 7% state tax on top, spending $100,000 could require withdrawing $145,000. Every dollar available to spend may cost about $1.45 from the account. The issue becomes more important once Required Minimum Distributions begin at age 73 or 75, depending on birth year. At that point, money must come out whether it is needed or not. Those withdrawals can increase taxable income, push retirees into a higher bracket, raise Medicare premiums through IRMAA surcharges and cause more Social Security benefits to become taxable. One tax issue can quickly create others. But there is often a window between retirement and the start of RMDs. For many people, those are among the lowest-tax years of retirement, but that window doesn't stay open forever. The goal is not avoiding taxes, but rather to understand the longterm consequences of today’s decisions and use the years before RMDs to manage those taxes deliberately. Once forced distributions begin, many decisions are no longer yours to make.

F IN A N CIA L BU Z Z | FI NANCE + LE GAL SE RVICE S

Michael Mezheritskiy

THE MOST TRUSTED NAME IN MEMORY CARE FOR NEARLY 30 YEARS Our secure, friendly environment fosters independence while upholding the absolute dignity of every resident. With a dedicated team of specially trained caregivers, we provide customized support that gives families complete confidence and peace of mind. Experience the Arden Courts Difference. Contact us today to arrange a personal tour.

888-427-7183 Arden Courts of Avon

100 Fisher Drive, Avon, CT

Arden Courts Farmington

45 South Rd, Farmington, CT

Decadence Awaits

Negroni Truffle

Drinking Chocolate

Maple Creme Bonbon

Salted Caramel Bonbon

Chocolate • Coffee • Gelato • Slushies Handcrafted bean-to-bar chocolate, artisan truffles and bonbons made in small batches from ethically sourced, single-origin cacao. 136 Simsbury Road, Building 15, Avon, CT • 860.470.3428 Order online at www.chokaico.com

NOVEMBER 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/FA RMI N GTO N VA L L E Y

C I T Y L I FEST Y L E G I V ES BAC K

GIVING TOGETHER A Community That Shows Up

Every year, City Lifestyle sends checks to hundreds of families in need across the country through our annual Giving Campaign and our non-profit arm, Kingdom Building Foundation. But none of it would be possible without you. We can only help the people we know about, and

M UST SE E | L I FE + C ULTU RE

that’s where our readers come in. If you know someone quietly struggling, whether it’s a single parent, a senior citizen, or a family facing something they never saw coming, we want to hear their story. Nominations are what make this whole campaign possible.

We provided a chair lift for a teenager paralyzed in a gymnastics accident so she could move freely through her own home again. We helped a child who lost an eye to cancer get the prosthetic because insurance wouldn’t cover it. We covered dental work for a man who needed his smile back just to walk into a job interview. We got heat turned back on for a family who had spent part of the winter without it. We helped a family keep up with bills while a husband and father fought pancreatic cancer, and we helped another family cover medical expenses after the unimaginable loss of a child. These are just a few examples of some of the hundreds of individuals that have been helped through nominations from readers like you. None of it happens without someone noticing first and speaking up. "We don't just send checks," says Steven Schowengerdt, CEO and founder of City Lifestyle.

“We send a message: You are seen, you are loved, and you are not forgotten.” Together with City Lifestyle President Matthew Perry, Steven has helped shape this into a tradition that goes far beyond the holiday season. "This is about community," Matthew says. "We believe we've been blessed, so now we get to be a blessing." Often, the person making the nomination gets just as much out of the experience as the recipient. There's something powerful about being part of the reason someone else's burden got lighter, especially when that need might have otherwise gone unnoticed. The campaign is completely confidential. No names are ever shared or publicized, and nominating someone is as simple as telling us their story. We are looking for those in our communities who fall between the cracks of getting help, and together as a community, we can meet those needs.

Nominations open November 1st and close December 3rd. To nominate someone in your community, follow @CityLifestyle on Instagram and find the form in our bio, or visit KingdomBuildingFoundation.org.

This season, giving starts with you. Let's do it together. Nominate someone in need today.

NOVEMBER 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/FA RMI N GTO N VA L L E Y

NOVEMBER 2026

events A S E L E C T I O N O F U P C O M I N G LO C A L E V E N T S

NOVE M BE R 6T H

Northwest Catholic High School Athletic Hall of Fame Gala Wampanoag Country Club, 60 Wampanoag Dr., West Hartford | 6:00 PM Last celebrated in 2019, NWC is resurrecting a longstanding athletic tradition, inducting several new members into its Hall of Fame. NOVE M BE R 6T H

An Evening of Skygazing Talcott Mountain Science Center, 324 Montevideo Rd., Avon | 7:00 PM Guests will observe the night sky through telescopes; event is hosted by Talcott Mountain Science Center's astronomer. NOVE M BE R 7 T H

Hill-Stead Museum's Fall Gala Hill-Stead Museum, 35 Mountain Road, Farmington | 5:30 PM Annual fall gala fundraiser experience hosted on the historic museum grounds: a fun night to be had by all. NOVE M BE R 2 1 ST

Beatlemania Again Bridge Street Live, 41 Bridge St, Collinsville | 8:00 PM This high-energy tribute brings the excitement and spirit of The Beatles to life with more than 30 of their greatest hits, presented by Bridge Street Live.

EVE N TS

Want to be featured? G E T I N T O U C H AT C I T Y L I F E S T Y L E . C O M / F A R M I N G T O N V A L L E Y

N OV E M BE R 2 1 ST

Jingle Bell Trolley 220 Albany Tpk., Canton | 10:00 AM The Avon-Canton Chamber of Commerce’s festive Jingle Bell Trolley will take riders to four popular shopping destinations in the heart of Avon and Canton, where they can enjoy an assortment of family activities. N OV E M BE R 2 6T H

The Falcon 5K Turkey Trot Thompson Brook School, 150 Thompson Rd., Avon | 9:00 AM Awards to top three males and females overall. Funds raised support the Avon High School Cross Country Team, their equipment, resources and opportunities for student athletes, along with scholarships for several graduating seniors.

NOVEMBER 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/FA RMI N GTO N VA L L E Y

Cranberry Chambord Chutney 34

There always seems to be a debate of some kind or another on whether homemade cranberry sauce or canned is best for your holiday table. Whether you are in the homemade camp or the canned camp, this recipe is a must-try for everyone. It’s easy and packed with yummy goodness! And if you’re in the canned camp, you may surprise yourself that you ever thought canned was the easiest route to your table! This sauce is a great addition to your poultry or pork when fresh cranberries are in season, but frozen cranberries can certainly be used in a pinch.

Ingredients • 1-pound fresh cranberries • 2 cups sugar • 2 tart apples (such as Granny Smith), peeled, cored, and diced • 1/8 teaspoon ground cloves • 1/8 teaspoon allspice • 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon • zest of 1 lemon, cut into julienne strips • zest of 1 orange, cut into julienne strips • 1/3 cup Chambord liqueur

Cooking Instructions 1. Rinse and pick over cranberries. Discard any that are green or mushy and remove stems. 2. In a 2-quart saucepan, place cranberries, sugar, and diced apples. Cover the pot and cook over medium heat until the mixture comes to a boil. (No need to add liquid.) 3. Uncover and stir in spices. Cover and simmer for 10 minutes. Uncover and add lemon and orange zest. Cover the pot and cook for another 5 minutes or until the mixture has thickened and the berries have popped. 4. Cool for 5 minutes, then stir in the Chambord and refrigerate until serving time.

WANT TO BREAK FREE FROM THE CAN? THIS HOMEMADE SAUCE WILL WOW YOUR THANKSGIVING GUESTS! ARTICLE BY PAULI REEP

C ULIN A RY C R E AT ION S | F OOD + BE VE RAGE

Your Local Flooring & Renovation Experts A Family Business, Built for You, Since 1993 From stunning new flooring of any material to beautiful kitchen and bathroom renovations, we do that!

Bathroom Renovations

Luxury Vinyl Plank Installation

Custom Area Rugs and Stair Runners

Tailored to fit your budget, our services include ability to make custom tiled showers, install stand alone tubs, plumbing and electric and more!

Our endless selection of Luxury Vinyl plank gives you the ability to find the perfect waterproof and scratch resistant flooring in any color and style

Any rug in our showroom can be turned into an area rug, you pick it and we can get it bound and even come deliver and lay it out for you!

Call today and set up your FREE estimate

actioncarpetandflooring.com 860-651-8406

1394 Hopmeadow St. · Simsbury, CT

LET US CATER YOUR NEXT GATHERING | 20 West Main Street Avon, CT 06001 - Domscoffee.com NOVEMBER 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/FA RMI N GTO N VA L L E Y

S TA R B U R S T O N I N D E N AVA R R E T T E