m a r k e t i s e x p e c t e d t o m o v e i n t o a l o n g - a w a i t e d p h a s e o f b a l a n c e r a t h e r t
t e
g n a l i n g c o n t i n u e d
a p p r e c i a t i o n b u t a t a f a r m o r e s u s t a i n a b l e p a c e t h a n t h e r a p i d g a i n s s e e n e a r l i e r i n
t h e d e c a d e E x i s t i n g - h o m e s a l e s a r e f o r e c a s t t o i n c r e a s e r o u g h l y 1 7 % , r e f l e c t i n g
c a u t i o u s b u t i m p r o v i n g b u y e r c o n f i d e n c e a s m o r t g a g e r a t e s s t a b i l i z e . A f f o r d a b i l i t y i s
e x p e c t e d t o i m p r o v e m a r g i n a l l y , w i t h t h e t y p i c a l m o r t g a g e p a y m e n t c o n s u m i n g a
s m a l l e r s h a r e o f h o u s e h o l d i n c o m e t h a n i n p r i o r y e a r s . O v e r a l l , R e a l t o r . c o m
c h a r a c t e r i z e s 2 0 2 6 a s a b a l a n c e d m a r k e t , w h e r e n e i t h e r b u y e r s n o r s e l l e r s h o l d
o v e r w h e l m i n g l e v e r a g e .
p a r t o f T e a m K w i t h B H H S R
r o f e
FebruaryLocal Love
As February rolls around, it brings with it the reminders of the things we love, the people and places that are special in our lives. It also reminds us to show them just how much they mean to us.
This month’s issue is dedicated to helping you do just that—celebrating and highlighting the best of what’s to love in our local community.
As we navigate the lingering chill of winter and the promise of spring’s arrival, let’s take a moment to come together with the people who matter most. Whether they’re in your home, down the street, or across the community, February is a wonderful time to connect and share love.
“Love local” isn’t just about supporting the businesses in your area—it’s about cherishing what’s near to you in every sense.
For instance, we have a story this month about Eva Gryczan. Inspired by her love of aging family members and her care of them, started her own in-home care business, Local Home Care LLC.
Looking for a great date night or gathering spot to meet up with cherished friends this Valentine's Day? The Social Lounge in Somerset Square has late-night hours, live music, small bites and handcrafted cocktails to make your gathering special.
Love to travel? We spoke with Claudia Dawley, owner of The Stamped Passport Travel Co., about planning your summer getaway now!
Speaking of travel, we have a profile this month of Lauren Karwoski of Glastonbury, who was featured on the new reality TV show On Brand With Jimmy Fallon in its inaugural season. Lauren has a successful career running her own online social media brand, Suitelifeoflauren, where she spotlights her nomad life of solo travel around the world.
Finally, in our Healthy Lifestyle feature this month, we spoke with Jeffrey Goodsell, MD, a family medicine physician in Glastonbury who recently opened Fireside Primary Care, a new practice affiliated with MDVIP that will give him more time to focus on personalized care.
Here’s to a February filled with love — both local and beyond! SRIVATHSA (SRI) RAMACHANDRAN,
Avi Smith-Rapaport, Dr. Jennifer Raska, Claudia Dawley
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
John Helmke, Kaitlyn Casso, Lynn Damon, Paloma Galdino
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
President Matthew Perry
COO David Stetler
CRO Jamie Pentz
CoS Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Mary Albers
LAYOUT DESIGNER Emily Lisenbee
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Brandy Thomas
With a RILA you can:
• Capture market growth with indexed-linked performance
• Protect your savings with built-in downside protection options
• Pay no annual fees there are no annual fees with a RILA or advisor fees
• Choose how much risk you take — with flexible buffer protection
• Lock in gains anytime to guarantee them instead of waiting
• Benefit from tax-deferred growth for retirement income planning Call James Beyer from Integrity Wealth for more information.
1-7: The CT River Valley Chamber of Commerce wrapped up 2025 with a final Business After Hours Event at Berkshire Hathaway New England Properties.
8-14: Scenes from the Glastonbury 48th Annual Santa's Run Road Race.
business monthly
Jenny DeRosa Bergeron Wins Wealth Manager 2025 Five Star Award
Jenny DeRosa Bergeron, of Allegra Wealth Management, LLC, in Glastonbury has been awarded the Connecticut Five Star Wealth Manager Award for the seventh consecutive year. She was chosen out of 3,641 Connecticut-area wealth managers considered for the award; 236 of the candidates received the honor. The award is based on candidates meeting 10 criteria for investment professionals, including a favorable regulatory and complaint history review and industry-specific performance reviews. Visit allegrawealthmanagement.com. Search Jenny Bergeron.
CT River Valley Chamber Celebrates Its Ambassadors
The CT River Valley Chamber of Commerce's Ambassadors held their final meeting of the year in December. Chamber members Highland Park Market provided food, with sweet treats from Brown Butter Creations. The Ambassador program is made up of volunteers who are the "face" of the Chamber, supporting member businesses by attending events, welcoming new members, assisting with networking, and promoting Chamber benefits to foster economic growth and strong community connections. Visit CRVchamber.org
Dynamic Touch Home Care Hosts Holiday Party
Dynamic Touch Home Care LLC recently held its annual holiday party. With a staff of about 120 service providers Dynamic Touch Home Care offers in-home services for personalized assistance in nursing homes, assisted living communities, and private residences. The agency covers dozens of towns in the greater Hartford area. Visit Dynamictouchhomecare.com for information.
Photography by Lynn Damon
Photography by CT River Valley Chamber
LIVING THE SUITE LIFE
LAUREN KARWOSKI IS A STORYTELLER, NOMAD AND JIMMY FALLON COLLABORATOR
Lauren Karwoski has built a career and a growing fanbase around her instinct for connection and authenticity.
A Glastonbury native, Lauren created SuiteLifeOfLauren, a social media lifestyle brand focused on solo travel, fashion, women and everyday elegance.
Her Instagram and TikTok accounts focus on female solo travel across the world, upscale hotel stays, beauty, and personal lifestyle experiences.
ARTICLE BY EILEEN M. MCNAMARA
She has leveraged her social media presence into a brand that bridges social media in a new era of digital personalities who move fluidly between platforms.
Lauren with other cast members on the set of On Brand With Jimmy Fallon
SuiteLifeofLauren began as a personal creative outlet while she was working remotely as a copywriter, a job she took after a brief stint in sports broadcasting.
“The corporate life was never actually my goal,” she admits. “I realized I could travel just about anywhere and work, so I did. Then I just started posting about it ... and it all started to grow.”
Her travel posts soon evolved into an online brand and destination behindthe-scenes glimpses into her life as a solo female traveler.
Part of what resonates with fans is her willingness to live unconventionally. Lauren describes herself as a nomad — she hasn’t had a home base in more than three years and travels full time, spending nearly half of each year in Florence, Italy.
“I travel alone, and that’s a big angle of my content — how to travel solo as a woman and stay safe,” she says.
A couple of years ago SuiteLifeofLauren caught the attention of television producers working on a reality TV show with Jimmy Fallon. They contacted Lauren - who at first thought it was a scam - and she eventually was chosen as one of several cast members for what became On Brand With Jimmy Fallon. The show is a reality competition series where content creators and marketers compete to develop brand pitches for real companies.
The first season featured eight episodes and though Lauren didn’t win the competition, she made it to the penultimate episode before being eliminated and also appeared in the final episode.
“I made it pretty far, which was really exciting.”
Her blend of wit, warmth, and grounded presence resonated with viewers.
Her reality TV stint has propelled her digital work, helping her grow partnerships with major travel and lifestyle brands, including Hard Rock Hotel and Virgin Voyages.
The experience also has inspired her to seek more TV opportunities.
“It was just the coolest experience. I’d come on set every day and feel like I was in a movie. I definitely see a world where, hopefully in the next year or so, I’m popping up on people’s screens again.”
Despite her global lifestyle, her ties to home remain strong. She visits her grandparents in Rhode Island frequently, as well as her mom, Diane Karwoski in Glastonbury.
Diane was a single mother who taught second grade in Glastonbury for many years. Lauren credits her with providing a grounded upbringing and for supporting her and her sister, Caroline Karwoski, who is a fashion model.
“I have a very strong understanding that I’m able to do this because of the privileges I had growing up,”
On TikTok: @suitelifeoflauren
On Instagram: Lauren.Karwoski
Lauren on one of her many travels.
This photo and below, Lauren on a recent visit to the middle east.
Let a global leader in wealth management help you
Access a vast network of financial products and services from our world-class global institution. We welcome the opportunity to collaborate with you to help achieve your financial dreams.
Helping women entrepreneurs feel confident in themselves and their brands, so we can create professional and strategic photos that attract their dream clients.
www.kaitlyncasso.com hello@kaitlyncasso.com
WHERE GLASTONBURY GATHERS
Social Lounge & Bar Continues to Elevate the Town’s Nightlife
ARTICLE BY EILEEN M. MCNAMARA
PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOHN HELMKE
Since opening more than two years ago Social Lounge & Bar in Somerset Square has been providing the perfect blend of great food, expertly crafted cocktails, and a chill atmosphere. The lounge has become an inviting, late-night destination where Glastonbury residents gather to relax, connect, and unwind.
The cocktails at Social Lounge are handcrafted.
“We’re proud of our menu,” Marc shares. “It’s elevated comfort food—simple, delicious, and perfect for a night out.”
Founded by Marc Alderucci, a longtime local bar owner, Social Lounge opened in June 2023 to fill a noticeable void in town.
“Everything in Glastonbury shut down too early,” Marc explains. “There wasn’t a true late-night spot where people could grab a drink, get a late bite, or just hang out in a comfortable environment.” His vision was simple but powerful: create a place that felt warm, intimate, and unhurried—a modern neighborhood lounge that encouraged community.
Two years later, that vision has flourished. With a cozy capacity of about 60 guests, Social Lounge offers an atmosphere that’s intentionally relaxed and inviting. Soft lighting, comfortable seating, and small touches—like the signature couch in the corner—make the space feel like an extension of someone’s living room. “We specialize in bringing people together,” Marc says. “Our goal is for guests to feel like they can settle in, take a breath, and enjoy themselves.”
The lounge is open seven days a week, with latenight hours that remain unmatched locally: open until 1 a.m. Sunday through Thursday and 2 a.m. on Fridays and Saturdays. Popular happy hours run Monday through Friday in the early evening.
Food has become one of Social Lounge’s standout features. The menu—centered on small plates, signature flatbreads, and comforting homemade meatballs— was designed to complement the bar program and encourage sharing among friends. Seasonal specials rotate throughout the year, adding variety for regulars.
“We’re proud of our menu,” Marc shares. “It’s elevated comfort food—simple, delicious, and perfect for a night out.”
Behind the bar, creativity abounds.
“Our master bartenders are always stirring up something fresh and inventive,” Marc says. The cocktail list blends classics with signature creations, while rotating features spotlight new flavor profiles and guest-favorite infusions.
The exterior of Social Lounge
On weekends, the atmosphere shifts to keep things lively. Thursdays feature live acoustic music and on Saturdays a DJ provides music, striking a balance between high-energy fun and the intimate vibe Social Lounge is known for. The music stays at a conversational level early in the evening, then gradually builds as the night unfolds.
“We want everyone to feel comfortable,” Marc emphasizes. “Whether someone’s here for a quiet drink or a more upbeat night, the space adapts.”
One of the lounge’s most defining features is its culture of community. Regulars quickly become familiar faces, often greeted by name. New visitors are welcomed with genuine warmth. The team encourages a social, friendly environment—one where conversations flow easily between tables and where solo guests feel just as at home as groups.
“People come here to relax, socialize, and connect,” Marc says. “That’s really what Social Lounge is all about.”
In the warmer months, the patio becomes a favorite gathering spot, offering outdoor seating that extends the lounge’s cozy feel into the evening air. Private events, themed nights, and pop-up collaborations have also become part of the lounge’s evolving identity, giving guests new reasons to return.
As Social Lounge continues into its third year, its mission remains steady: offer Glastonbury a stylish, comfortable destination where great drinks, great food, and great people come together naturally. Or, as Marc puts it: “We want to be the place where everyone feels welcome—the place you think of first when you want to unwind.”
SOCIAL LOUNGE & BAR — AT A GLANCE
Location: Somerset Square, Glastonbury, CT
Hours:
Monday–Thursday: 3 p.m.–1 a.m.
Friday: 3 p.m.–2 a.m.
Saturday: 12 p.m.–2 a.m.
Sunday: 12 p.m.–1 a.m.
Late-night destination with the latest closing hours in town.
Happy Hour
Monday–Friday: 3–6 p.m.
“People
relax, socialize, and connect,” Marc says. “That’s
Opposite Top: Some of the handcrafted cocktails at Social Lounge
Opposite Bottom: The interior of Social Lounge
Above: The interior of Social Lounge
Experts Espresso Corner
We Care Computers, Central Eye Care
ARTICLE BY AVI SMITH-RAPAPORT, DR. JENNIFER RASKA | PHOTOGRAPHY BY KAITLYN CASSO
hRapaport, We Care Com
DON’T LET DAVE IN ACCOUNTING RUN YOUR TECH BACKEND!
Dave is great at accounting, not at resetting routers, fighting ransomware, or remembering which laptop still runs Windows 8. But in a lot of small businesses, “Dave in Accounting” becomes the unofficial IT guy. That role gets overwhelming fast - and when tech breaks, everything grinds to a halt. Modern IT isn’t just about fixing things, it’s about preventing problems, protecting your data, and giving your team tools that work. That’s where Managed Services come in, it’s a proactive pit crew that keeps your systems running smoothly, so Dave can get back to his own job. Your IT should be strategic, secure, and stress-free. We Care Computers helps small businesses run smarter by taking care of tech. Reach out for a free IT Risk Overview.
info@wecarecomputers.com | 860-836-4191
nifer Raska, Central Eye
CLEAR, COMFORTABLE VISION AT EVERY AGE
One of my favorite parts of practicing in West Hartford is seeing neighbors from every life stage walk into Central Eye Care each day. A curious toddler, a fourth grader squinting at the board, a college student living on screens, a parent juggling work and bedtime stories, a grandparent wanting to maintain independence – each has different vision needs. Early on, we’re watching how the eyes work together and how clearly the brain is learning to see. School-age years are about crisp focus to enable learning progress. In adulthood, we fine-tune for screen time, dry eye, and tiny print. Later in life, our focus shifts to cataracts, glaucoma, macular changes, and keeping you confident and safe.
If you’re wondering what’s normal for your age, a comprehensive eye exam is a great place to start. You can learn more about vision at every age on our blog.
centraleyecare2020.com/blog | 860-206-3060
Stephanie Johnson Sales Director
Jennifer Finan Sales Director
THE STAMPED Passport
WHY THE BEST SUMMER TRIPS IN 2026 WILL LOOK A LITTLE DIFFERENT
ARTICLE BY CLAUDIA DAWLEY
Claudia Dawley in the São Bento Railway Station in Porto, Portugal.
Photography by: Paloma Galdino
February is often when people begin thinking about summer travel and what they want their next trip to feel like.
After years of planning travel for clients at different life stages, I’ve noticed that the most rewarding trips in 2026 are being shaped earlier, and with far more intention, than they used to be.
That perspective is deeply personal. Growing up in the Netherlands, and later living in Uganda, gave me early exposure to very different cultures and ways of moving through the world, long before travel became something I planned professionally. Travel was never about rushing from place to place or checking destinations off a list. It was about understanding how people live, eat, and move through the world, a mindset that still guides how I help clients think about travel today.
What’s changing is not just where people want to go, but how they want to travel.
Summer trips are no longer about packing as much as possible into a short window. Travelers are prioritizing pacing, connection, and places that feel authentic rather than overcrowded.
Whether it’s a honeymoon, a milestone birthday, a multigenerational trip, or a long-anticipated vacation, experiences people remember most tend to come from slowing down and choosing destinations that allow them to truly settle in.
This shift is also influencing when people plan. The best hotels, guides, and experiences are often secured far earlier than many realize, especially for summer travel. Planning ahead isn’t about pressure, it’s about choice. It allows travelers to be thoughtful about where they stay, how they move from place to place, and how much space they leave for the moments that aren’t on an itinerary at all.
Tanzania has become a popular summer travel destination.
The Azores in Northern Spain provide breathtaking views
Across Europe, this has led many travelers to look beyond the most obvious summer destinations. Instead of defaulting to the same cities year after year, there is growing interest in places that offer culture and beauty without the intensity of peak crowds. Slovenia, for example, has become an appealing alternative to Switzerland, with its alpine landscapes, walkable towns, and access to nature. Northern Spain offers another compelling option, combining food, coastline, and history in a way that feels relaxed and grounded during the summer months. The Azores and Madeira continue to stand out for travelers drawn to Portugal but looking for a quieter, more naturefocused experience.
Africa continues to resonate with travelers seeking trips that feel meaningful and memorable. East Africa, particularly northern Tanzania, offers a powerful blend of wildlife, conservation, and community. For honeymooners, couples, and milestone travelers alike, these journeys often leave a lasting impression because they invite reflection as much as adventure.
partners and local experts, which shapes how I guide clients as they begin planning thoughtful, well-paced trips. What I see consistently is that the trips people cherish most are those designed with care, where the destination fits not just the season, but the travelers themselves.
“Experiences people remember most tend to come from slowing down and choosing destinations that allow them to truly settle in.”
Travel looks different depending on who you’re traveling with and why. A honeymoon might call for privacy and flow, while a multigenerational trip benefits from space and flexibility. Families often value ease and logistics, while couples may prioritize atmosphere and time together. Thoughtful planning makes room for all of that, creating trips that feel personal rather than rushed or generic. If you’re beginning to think about summer travel for 2026 and wondering what a more intentional, well-paced trip could look like, I always enjoy being part of those early conversations. Travel done well has a way of staying with you long after you return home.
Claudia Dawley
Through my work as a Virtuoso-affiliated travel advisor, I’m closely connected to on-the-ground
The Stamped Passport Travel Co. thestampedpassporttravel.com Instagram: @thestampedpassporttravelco
Vale Foot & Ankle Surgery, PLLC
• Motion Preservation with Cervical & Lumbar Disc Replacement
• Minimally Invasive Outpatient Surgery
• Latest Robotic Surgery Technology Telemedicine Consultation Available
• 4 Locations: Farmington, Manchester, Glastonbury & Rocky Hill CT
Hanbing Zhou, M.D. Orthopedic Spine Surgery Associate Jason DaCruz MHS, PA-C (860) 549-8261 Email for appointments:
(586) 612-7144 | katie@luminapayments.com
Katie Weber
A National Leader in Care
MDVIP OFFERS A PRECIOUS COMMODITY:
REAL TIME WITH A DOCTOR
For Jeffrey Goodsell, MD, a family medicine physician in Glastonbury, becoming a doctor married two of his passions: a deep interest in science and a love for oneon-one interactions with other people.
“I loved the body sciences, which put me on a path towards medicine. And the longer I was on that path, the more I found a sense of fulfillment from helping people, whether it’s simple stuff like addressing a straightforward acute problem or helping people manage very complex medical issues.”
Dr. Goodsell recently opened Fireside Primary Care, a new family medicine practice that gives him more time to really focus on personalized care. After 10 years of working in a traditional primary care setting, Dr. Goodsell is seeing fewer patients. That means he has time for longer appointments, to answer questions, and to really get to know his patients.
“I needed to change what I was doing in medicine to find a different model – one that would help me to better serve patients,” he says. “I felt like I didn’t have the time to spend with people to really delve into their issues.”
Dr. Goodsell is affiliated with MDVIP, the national leader in personalized care. In his new MDVIP-affiliated practice, Dr. Goodsell has the time to offer same-day and next-day appointments that start on time and can last longer.
He also has new preventive tools through the MDVIP Wellness Program. Patients take part annually in the comprehensive preventive care program, which includes advanced screenings and diagnostic tests designed to identify risks earlier. The tests are not usually covered by commercial insurance or offered by most primary care doctors.
Dr. Goodsell uses the results of the tests to customize a wellness plan that patients can use to lower their risks and improve their health.
“I think the MDVIP model gives me the time that I need to help patients meet their health goals and to take the time to figure out what is it you’re looking for in your health — now, a year from now or five or 10 years down the road,” Dr. Goodsell says.
“Preventive care is important because it can help you not only live longer, but it lets us focus on how I can help you live your best life and feel the best so that you can do the things that make your life worth living, that bring you joy and fulfillment each day for as long as possible.”
Patients in MDVIP-affiliated practices like Dr. Goodsell’s experience better outcomes, according to 10 published studies — from 72% lower hospitalization rates to fewer heart attacks and strokes for at-risk patients. Patients are also happier: 97% are satisfied with their doctor-patient relationship compared to just 58% in traditional primary care practices.
Dr. Goodsell is board-certified by the American Board of Family Medicine. He went to medical school at the University of Virginia Medical School. He completed his internship and residency at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center – Susquehanna in Williamsport, PA.
He says he chose family medicine because it allows him to see entire families. “I really love linking together various members of a family across generations. It’s been very rewarding to meet parents, grandparents and siblings, and then use what I learn about the larger family situation to inform what might best fit the needs of the individual.”
Gaining insight into an expanded family context helps Dr. Goodsell understand the individual better and personalize their care. “That’s not something you can get just walking into an urgent care.”
He also likes the variety that family medicine provides. He’s not just focused on one organ or organ system.
CONTINUED >
“I needed to change what I was doing in medicine to find a different model – one that would help me to better serve patients.”
“I have enjoyed everything in medicine to some degree and didn’t want to be pigeonholed into one particular area. I like to look at the person as opposed to focusing exclusively on, ‘What is the heart doing?’ I want to see how Nancy is doing, how is Jim feeling. How can I help Jim be his best and get all the rest of the parts to go along with it ?”
Outside of the practice, Dr. Goodsell is focused on his own family. “I’ve got four young kids so we are always jumping around to different kids’ activities. I get so much fulfillment in being a dad and in trying to be a good husband and father at home.”
His wife, Margaret, helps run the practice. She previously had a cookie-decorating business, but uses her entrepreneurial skills to keep Fireside Primary Care running smoothly. The family has lived in Glastonbury since 2018 and really loves the community, from its festivals to its parks to its emphasis on education. “All of our kids are in the Glastonbury school system, and we have been consistently impressed with how much support there is in the schools for our kids .”
Dr. Goodsell’s new practice is located at 148 Oak St. You can learn more about the practice by going to mdvip.com/GlastonburyCT
We provide our patients with the highest quality dentistry that is available today and for you to keep your teeth for the rest of your life.
We anticipate completing this with the least amount of stress, discomfort and expense possible.
Great Expectations
CARE THAT COMES FROM THE HEART
ARTICLE BY BRIAN BOYER | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOHN HELMKE
For many people, home care is something they only begin to understand when they suddenly need it. For Eva Gryczan, owner and founder of Local Home Care in Glastonbury, it was a deeply personal journey — one shaped by nearly two decades of lovingly caring for her late father.
“Local Home Care was born from my own lived experience,” says Eva. “I cared for my father for 18 years and through that journey, I learned what it truly takes —time, patience, emotional presence and an incredible amount of compassion.” CONTINUED >
Photo credit: Provided
That experience shaped her philosophy and her business. Eva quickly learned that home care is not about tasks or checklists. “Home care is deeply personal,” she explains.
“It’s about honoring someone’s dignity during some of the most vulnerable moments of their life.”
While navigating the system, she saw a clear difference between state-owned programs and privately operated care. Rigid structures often left families with little flexibility while private care allowed for creativity personalization and responsiveness. That realization became the foundation of Local Home Care’s mission— care that adapts to the individual rather than forcing individuals to adapt to a system.
Listening is at the core of that mission, Eva says, and every relationship begins by understanding who the client is beyond medical needs.
“We take the time to learn about personalities, preferences, routines and family dynamics. When people feel heard and understood care becomes meaningful, not transactional.”
Each family receives an individualized scope of work ensuring caregivers are aligned not just clinically but emotionally. That intentionality is what sets Local Home Care apart from larger or national providers.
“Families aren’t just a number to us. They’re part of our community and we stay involved as needs change.”
Those relationships often lead to powerful moments. Eva recalls a family that reminded her of her own caregiving journey. Exhausted and overwhelmed, they had been trying to manage everything alone. When a Local Home Care caregiver joined their home, the shift was immediate.
“They told us they finally felt supported and no longer alone. They could rest and trust that their loved one was being cared for with patience and dignity.”
Looking ahead, Eva is focused on meeting evolving needs without losing the human connection that defines the organization. Through community outreach Local Home Care began receiving calls from families concerned about loved ones already under care elsewhere. She and her team stepped in to help identify neglect review care through in-home cameras and advocate for change —reinforcing the importance of oversight accountability and advocacy.
Her background working on a suicide support line also shaped the future of the company. She learned that many seniors reach out late at night not because of emergencies but because of loneliness. That insight led to the creation of a personalized caregiver line and monitoring service allowing seniors to connect with a caregiver at any time.
“Most injuries happen at night and often go unnoticed until morning. We are there in real time.”
At its core, Local Home Care is guided by a belief Eva holds deeply.
“Anyone can be a caretaker but not everyone can be a caregiver. Skills can be taught but empathy and purpose cannot.”
Staffers of Local Home Care LLC Photo credit: Provided
realty report
A SAMPLE OF RECENTLY SOLD PROPERTIES IN GLASTONBURY.
This data is a sampling of sold properties from December 2025. Source: SmartMLS System. Courtesy of BHHS, Kadji Anderson.
FEBRUARY 2026
events
A
SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
FEBRUARY 1ST
Gutenberg! The Musical!
Playhouse on Park, 244 Park Road | 2:00 PM
This wildly clever, high-energy musical spoof takes you on a joyfully absurd ride through one of history’s most unlikely Broadway pitches. Performance run through Sun., Feb. 8, with various times. Visit Playhouseonpark.org for additional dates and times.
FEBRUARY 5TH
Social Lounge Hosts Acoustic Sets
Social Lounge, Somerset Square | 5:30 PM
Musician Martin Piggot will take part in the Social Lounge's Acoustic Thursday Sets throughout the month. Enjoy live music, tasty bites, and delicious house made drinks. Visit Socialloungect.com for more information and additional dates.
FEBRUARY 7TH
Appraisal Day
Museum on the Green, 1944 Main St. | 10:00 AM
Bring your treasures for a verbal appraisal by experts from the historical society. $10 per item or 3 for $25. Please call ahead for rugs, books or unusual items, and with questions to ensure we have the right experts on hand. Bring photographs of larger items and furniture. Email questions to HSGlastEvents@gmail.com or call 860-633-6890.
FEBRUARY 7TH
Low Strung Cellos Fundraiser
First Church of Glastonbury, 2183 Main St. | 7:00 PM
Come join us for an awesome night of music featuring the Low Strung Cellos. Tickets are $30, $15 for students and seniors plus a donation for the food bank. Space is limited so get them early! For information contact pattisivocole@gmail.com or call 860-633-5057. Snow Date: Feb. 21.
FEBRUARY 8TH
King of Pain 10 Mile Run
Hopewell Elementary School, 1068 Chestnut Hill Road, South Glastonbury | 10:00 AM
Get ready for an exhilarating challenge at the King Of Pain 10-Miler. This legendary race, renowned as the toughest road race in the area, promises an unforgettable experience as you tackle its hilly terrain set amidst the stunning South Glastonbury orchards. Participants will not only push their limits and enjoy the camaraderie of fellow runners. Visit runsignup.com for more information.
FEBRUARY 27TH
4th Friday at the Arts
Marlborough Arts Center, 231 North Main St., Marlborough | 7:00 PM
The 4th Friday @ the Arts Cafe is a monthly evening of musicians and performers who entertain in the intimate atmosphere of the Charles W. Hall Art Gallery. Refreshments provided and guests are invited to bring their own wine. Concerts begin at 7:30 p.m., and doors open at 7 p.m. Visit Marlborougharts.org for information.
